1. World Elephant Day - 12 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
World Elephant Day is observed globally on August 12.
An Overview of the News
World Elephant Day aims to raise awareness about critical issues facing elephants, such as habitat loss, illegal ivory trade, and human-elephant conflicts.
The official theme for 2024 is “Personifying prehistoric beauty, theological relevance, and environmental importance.”
The theme emphasizes the need to preserve natural habitats to ensure elephants' survival.
History of World Elephant Day
World Elephant Day was co-founded on August 12, 2012, by Patricia Sims from Canada and the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation of Thailand.
The foundation was an initiative of HM Queen Sirikit of Thailand.
Patricia Sims has led World Elephant Day since its inception, building partnerships with 100+ conservation organizations globally.
The day has gained the support of millions worldwide, reflecting a shared commitment to elephant conservation.
Establishment of the World Elephant Society
The World Elephant Society was established in November 2015 as a nonprofit tax-exempt 501(C)(3) public charitable organization.
Its main purpose is to support the annual World Elephant Day campaign.
Patricia Sims serves as the President and Executive Director of the organization.
The Society aims to expand its educational outreach each year as a key part of its mission.
2. World Lion Day: A Tribute to the Majestic Lion
Tags: Important Days
Celebrated on August 10th, World Lion Day was initiated by Big Cat Rescue, a renowned sanctuary dedicated to big cats.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to raise global awareness about the declining lion population and the need for their conservation.
It serves as a reminder of the vital role lions play in maintaining ecological balance and the importance of their protection.
The official theme for World Lion Day 2024 is “Celebrating the King of the Jungle”.
Project Lion: Securing the Future of Asiatic Lions
Announced in 2020, Project Lion focuses on long-term conservation efforts for Asiatic lions, particularly in the Gir Forest.
Key components include habitat improvement, advanced monitoring technologies, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts.
The Gujarat Forest Department plays a vital role in these efforts, ensuring safe habitats and prompt emergency responses.
International Big Cats Alliance: A Global Conservation Effort
Launched in April 2023, the International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) unites 97 range countries in the mission to conserve big cats, including lions.
The alliance promotes international cooperation, sharing knowledge and resources to enhance conservation strategies globally.
Advanced Technologies and Initiatives in Lion Conservation
Modern ICT tools like GPS-based tracking, automated sensor grids, night vision, and GIS-based real-time monitoring are integral to lion conservation.
The Greater Gir Concept expands protected habitats beyond Gir National Park, while habitat improvement measures ensure resources for lions.
Enhanced protection mechanisms include the creation of a Wildlife Crime Cell, Task Force, and safety enhancements like covering open wells.
Background of World Lion Day
World Lion Day was founded in 2013 by Big Cat Rescue, the largest accredited lion sanctuary.
Co-founded by Dereck and Beverly Joubert, who aimed to address the decline of lion populations and their threats.
The Jouberts launched the Big Cat Initiative (B.C.I.) with "National Geographic" in 2009.
In 2013, they combined efforts to protect wild big cats under one unified mission.
3. 82nd Anniversary of Quit India Movement Day
Tags: Important Days
Quit India Movement Day, also known as August Kranti Day, is observed annually on August 8th to commemorate the launch of the Quit India Movement in 1942.
An Overview of the News
The day highlights the power of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience in achieving social and political change, emphasizing democracy, freedom, and unity.
August 8, 2024, marks the 82nd anniversary of Quit India Movement Day.
About the Quit India Movement
The Indian National Congress (INC), led by Mahatma Gandhi, officially launched the Quit India Movement on August 8, 1942, during the Bombay session of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC).
The movement aimed for the immediate end of British rule in India and began in earnest on August 9, 1942, following the British arrest of key leaders, including Gandhi.
Key Figures and Events
Aruna Asaf Ali: Known as the Heroine of the 1942 Quit India Movement, she hoisted the Indian National flag at Gowalia Tank Maidan, Bombay, after the arrest of major leaders. She was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1992 and the Bharat Ratna (posthumously) in 1997 for her contributions.
Yusuf Meherally: The phrase 'Quit India' was authored by him. He also coined the iconic slogan "Simon Go Back" during the anti-Simon Commission protests in 1928.
4. National Javelin Day - 7 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
National Javelin Day is observed annually across India on August 7.
An Overview of the News
The day commemorates Neeraj Chopra's gold medal win in the javelin throw at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.
It aims to promote the sport of javelin throw and highlight its importance in athletics.
The 3rd National Javelin Day will be observed on 7th August 2024.
Background of National Javelin Day
The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) declared August 7 as National Javelin Day on August 11, 2021.
The first National Javelin Day was celebrated on 7th August 2022.
Significance of August 7th in Olympic History
On August 7, 2021, Neeraj Chopra won the gold medal in the men's javelin throw at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics with a throw of 87.58 meters.
He became the first Asian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in javelin throw.
He is the second Indian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal, following Abhinav Bindra, who secured gold in shooting at the Beijing 2008 Olympics.
About Neeraj Chopra
Neeraj secures second place at Doha Diamond League 2024
He won the 2023 Doha Diamond League.
He clinched a gold medal at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
He also claimed a gold medal in the men's javelin throw event at the World Athletics Championships 2023 in Budapest, Hungary.
Neeraj Chopra was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in March 2022.
Major medals won by Neeraj Chopra :
2022 Kuortane Games (Gold Medal)
2022 Paavo Nurmi Games (Silver)
2021 Tokyo Olympics (Gold Medal)
2018 Commonwealth Games (Gold Medal)
2017 Asian Athletics Championships (Gold Medal)
2016 South Asian Games (Gold Medal)
Athletics Federation of India (AFI)
Established: 1946
Headquarters: New Delhi, Delhi
President: Adille J. Sumariwalla
Paris Olympics 2024 Updates
On August 6, 2024, Neeraj Chopra qualified for the men's javelin throw final at the Paris Olympics with a throw of 89.34 meters (Group B) at Stade de France.
Arshad Nadeem of Pakistan also qualified for the javelin final with a throw of 86.59 meters.
The Paris Olympics 2024 are being held from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
5. National Handloom Day - 7th August 2024
Tags: Important Days
The 10th National Handloom Day was celebrated on Wednesday, 7th August 2024.
An Overview of the News
The event took place at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The Hon’ble Vice President of India was the Chief Guest.
Union Textiles Minister, Giriraj Singh, and Minister of State for External Affairs & Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, attended.
Attendees included MPs, eminent personalities, designers, industry representatives, exporters, senior government officers, and over 1000 weavers from across the country.
Awards and Releases
Sant Kabir Awards and National Handloom Awards were conferred to handloom weavers for their outstanding contributions to the handloom sector.
The Award Catalogue was released by the Hon’ble Vice President of India.
A Coffee Table Book titled “Parampara- Sustainability in Handloom Traditions of India” was also released by the Hon’ble Vice President of India.
Historical Significance
Inception: National Handloom Day was first celebrated on 7th August 2015.
Commemoration: The date marks the launch of the Swadeshi Movement on 7th August 1905, promoting indigenous industries, particularly handloom weavers.
Objectives
Honouring Weavers: To recognize and motivate handloom weavers, fostering a sense of pride in the industry.
Cultural and Economic Impact: To appreciate the contribution of the handloom sector to India's cultural, traditional, and economic landscape.
Awareness Generation: To highlight the importance of the handloom sector in socio-economic development.
Nationwide Activities
Social Media Campaign: Through My Gov portal with activities like pledge-taking, selfies, designing a souvenir, and a quiz contest.
Exhibitions:
"Virasat" at Handloom Haat, New Delhi (3rd to 16th August) with thematic displays and live demonstrations.
Exclusive exhibition at Delhi Haat INA (1st to 15th August).
Special Sourcing Show: (B2B) at Varanasi organized by Handloom Export Promotion Council (7th to 9th August).
Educational Awareness:
"Know Your Weaves" event at Crafts Museum (1st to 14th August) with participation from approx. 10,000 students from schools across Delhi.
Handloom expos and awareness activities in colleges organized by Weaver Service Centres.
Thematic displays, weaving demonstrations, panel discussions, quizzes on handlooms, and fashion presentations by NIFT and IIHTs.
Some of the well known handlooms
Tamil Nadu’s famous Kanchipuram sarees
Paithani weaves of Maharashtra
Muga Silk of Assam
Mysore Silk of Karnataka
6. Hiroshima Day - 6 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
Hiroshima Day is observed annually on August 6th.
An Overview of the News
This year marks the 79th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II.
The city of Hiroshima now represents peace, resilience, and the enduring human spirit.
Historical Significance
Hiroshima Day marks the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945.
The bombing occurred during the final stages of World War II as an effort by the United States to hasten the end of the war.
The atomic bomb, called "Little Boy," was dropped at 8:15 AM.
The explosion had the force equivalent to 15,000 tons of TNT.
The blast caused widespread destruction, levelling buildings and igniting fires throughout the city.
Casualties and Immediate Aftermath
Approximately 70,000 to 80,000 people were killed instantly.
By the end of 1945, the death toll rose to around 140,000 due to injuries and radiation sickness.
The impact of the bombing resulted in immense loss of life and property.
Long-term Effects on Survivors
Survivors, known as Hibakusha, faced severe long-term health effects, including cancer and other radiation-induced illnesses.
Many survivors lost their families, homes, and livelihoods.
The psychological and physical trauma endured by Hibakusha highlights the lasting impact of nuclear warfare.
Observance of Hiroshima Day
Commemorative events are held, particularly in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, where the Peace Bell is rung.
People gather to offer prayers, observe moments of silence, and participate in peace marches.
Educational programs and events aimed at promoting nuclear disarmament and global peace are conducted worldwide.
Call to Action for Peace and Disarmament
Hiroshima Day serves as a reminder of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear warfare.
The day emphasizes the importance of working towards a world free from nuclear weapons.
International organizations and treaties, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), strive to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament.
The observance underscores the urgent need to prevent another nuclear catastrophe.
7. National Bone and Joint Day - 4 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
National Bone and Joint Day is observed annually across India on August 4th to raise awareness about the importance of strong bones and joints for people of all ages.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to promote the prevention and early detection of musculoskeletal disorders and conditions.
It also focuses on promoting cost-effective prevention and treatment of bone and joint conditions.
History:
The first National Bone & Joint Day was observed on 4 August 2012.
The celebration is led by the Indian Orthopaedic Association (IOA), New Delhi.
Indian Orthopaedic Association (IOA):
Established in 1955.
One of the largest professional organizations with more than 10,000 active life members.
Background:
The IOA has been celebrating National Bone & Joint Day across India since 2012.
Founders Day of the IOA, 4 August, is designated as "Bone & Joint Day."
The week leading up to 4 August is called "Bone & Joint Week."
8. Muslim Women's Rights Day - 1 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
Muslim Women's Rights Day is celebrated on August 1 to mark the enactment of the law against triple talaq.
An Overview of the News
The Indian government introduced this law on August 1, 2019. This law criminalizes the practice of instant triple talaq.
The first Muslim Women's Rights Day was observed in 2020.
Muslim Women Act, 2019:
The law is formally known as the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019.
The term "talaq" in this Act refers to talaq-e-biddat or any similar form of instantaneous and irrevocable divorce pronounced by a Muslim husband, which is now a criminal offense.
Under this Act, an accused Muslim husband can be punished with imprisonment for up to three years and may also face a fine.
Abolition of Triple Talaq in Various Countries:
Early Abolishment: Egypt was the first Muslim country to abolish Triple Talaq in 1929, followed by Sudan (1929), Syria (1953), Iraq (1959), Pakistan (1956), Malaysia (1969), and Bangladesh (1972).
Further Abolishments: Triple Talaq has also been abolished in Cyprus, Jordan, Algeria, Iran, Brunei, Morocco, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA):
Union Minister: Kiren Rijiju (Lok Sabha Constituency: Arunachal Pradesh West)
Minister of State (MoS): George Kurian
9. World Lung Cancer Day - 1 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
World Lung Cancer Day is observed worldwide on August 1st each year.
An Overview of the News
The day is dedicated to raising awareness about lung cancer, its risk factors, and the vital importance of early detection and treatment.
It aims to raise awareness about lung cancer, its risk factors, early detection, and treatment.
It supports people affected by lung cancer, advocates for increased research funding, and promotes healthy lifestyle choices.
Symbol and Theme:
Symbol: Pearl or white-colored ribbons.
2024 Theme: "Stronger Together: United for Lung Cancer Awareness."
Background and Organizers:
First organized in 2012 by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) in collaboration with the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) and the American College of Chest Physicians.
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC):
Established: 1974
Headquarters: Denver, Colorado, USA.
President: Dr. Paul Van Schil (Belgium).
CEO: Dr. Karen Kelly (USA).
10. 83rd AFHQ Civilian Services Day
Tags: Important Days
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the 83rd Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) Civilian Services Day in New Delhi on August 01, 2024.
An Overview of the News
Encouraged AFHQ Civilian Services personnel to enhance skills for efficient policy making and reform execution in the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Role of Civil Services:
Described as the steel frame of governance.
Recognized for dedication and hard work in pursuing Aatmanirbharta and contributing to soldiers' welfare.
Identified as a crucial link between the Armed Forces and civilian government.
Collaboration and Reforms:
Stressed teamwork between the Armed Forces and Civil Services from Command Headquarters to the Ministry.
Highlighted significant reforms in MoD over the past five years with global recognition due to teamwork.
Inclusion of AFHQ Civil Services officers in key MoD roles to improve decision-making quality.
Significance of AFHQ Day:
Celebrated on 1st August annually to recognize AFHQ Civilian Services personnel.
Aims to foster spirit-de-corps among civilian employees working with Service personnel in Integrated Service Headquarters, HQ Intergated Defence Staff, and 24 Inter-Services Organisations of MoD.
History:
AFHQ cadres foundation laid on August 01, 1942.
Initially organized decentralized civilian posts/cadre operations under various Service Headquarters and Ministry of Defence and Finance (Defence) Secretariat, controlled by Chief Administrative Officer.
