1. 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
2. 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.
3. 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."
4. 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
5. 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).
6. 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.
7. World Ranger Day - 31 July 2024
Tags: Important Days
Annually observed on 31 July to commemorate Rangers killed or injured in the line of duty.
An Overview of the News
Celebrates the critical work of Rangers in protecting the world's natural and cultural treasures.
2024 Theme: "30 by 30," aligning with the global goal of the 2022 UN Convention on Biological Diversity's 15th Conference of the Parties (COP 15) held in Montreal, Canada.
Background of World Ranger Day:
World Ranger Day is an initiative of the International Ranger Federation (IRF).
Promoted together with The Thin Green Line Foundation, the first charity solely dedicated to supporting rangers and their families.
The first World Ranger Day was observed on 31 July 2007, marking the 15th anniversary of the founding of the IRF.
International Ranger Federation (IRF):
Founded: 1992
President: Chris Galliers
8. International Day of Friendship - 30 July
Tags: Important Days
The United Nations' International Day of Friendship, also known as World Friendship Day, is observed globally on July 30 each year to honor the bonds of friendship.
An Overview of the News
The day is celebrated with various activities, acknowledging the importance of friendship despite differing dates observed worldwide.
2024 marks the 13th anniversary of International Friendship Day.
Background of International Day of Friendship:
In 2011, during the 65th UN session, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/65/L.72, proclaiming July 30 of each year as the International Day of Friendship.
The first International Friendship Day was observed in 2011.
United Nations (UN):
Established: October 24, 1945
Headquarters: New York City, United States of America (USA)
Secretary-General: António Guterres
Note: In India, Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in August.
9. National Organ Donation Day - 3 August 2024
Tags: Important Days
India observed the 14th Organ Donation Day on August 3, 2024.
An Overview of the News
The National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) organized an awareness program in New Delhi.
The theme for Organ Donation Week 2024 is "Leave Them Certain," which promotes having conversations with loved ones about organ donation.
Key Figures:
Anupriya Patel (Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare) honored families who donated organs, organ recipients, and doctors for successful transplants.
Dr. V K Paul (NITI Aayog Member, Health) emphasized the importance of organ donation awareness and encouraged multi-specialty hospitals to offer organ transplantation facilities.
Apurva Chandra (Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare) and Dr. Anil Kumar (NATTO Director) were among the senior officials present.
Impact: The organ donation rate has increased fourfold over the last decade, reaching 18,378 donations.
Purpose of the Day: Since 2010, Indian Organ Donation Day aims to raise awareness about brain stem death and organ donation, address myths and misconceptions, and encourage citizens to donate organs and tissues after death.
10. World Brain Day - 22 July 2024
Tags: Important Days
World Brain Day (WBD) is observed annually on July 22 to raise awareness about brain health and neurological disorders.
An Overview of the News
The day is led by the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) in partnership with its 6 WFN Regional Neurological Societies.
The 11th annual World Brain Day will be observed on July 22, 2024.
Theme for 2024: "Brain Health and Prevention: Protecting Our Future," emphasizing the importance of brain health and preventive measures.
Background:
WBD was established by the WFN in 2014 following a proposal from the Public Awareness and Advocacy Committee (PAAC).
The proposal was announced at the World Congress of Neurology (WCN) Council of Delegates meeting in September 2013 in Vienna, Austria.
The proposal was endorsed by the Board of Trustees in February 2014 as an annual event.
The first WBD was observed on July 22, 2014.
