Current Affairs search results for tag: important-days
By admin: July 2, 2024

1. World Sports Journalists Day - 2 July 2024

Tags: Important Days

World Sports Journalists Day is celebrated across the world on 2 July every year.

An Overview of the News

  • The day honours the achievements of sports media professionals and inspires them to put in more efforts to spread knowledge about sports among the general public.

  • Many news companies organize special events to honor sports journalists on this special day.

  • It aims to recognize the efforts of individuals involved in sports journalism.

History of World Sports Journalists Day

  • It was established in 1994 by the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) on 2 July to mark the establishment of AIPS as an organization on the occasion of the Summer Olympics in Paris.

  • Since its inception, the day is dedicated to recognizing the contributions and achievements of countless sports media professionals.

  • It serves as a platform to honour his outstanding work in the field of sports journalism.

  • World Sports Journalists Day assumes great significance as it provides an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable contribution made by sports media professionals.

  • These individuals play a vital role in reporting and analyzing sporting events, sharing the stories of athletes, and engaging audiences around the world.

By admin: July 1, 2024

2. National Chartered Accountants - 1 July

Tags: Important Days

National Chartered Accountants (CA) Day is observed annually on July 1st.

An Overview of the News

  • The day commemorates the establishment of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

  • This year, the celebrations mark the 76th anniversary since the ICAI was founded by an Act of Parliament.

What is the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)?

  • The ICAI is a statutory body established by the Chartered Accountants Act of 1949.

  • It regulates the profession of Chartered Accountancy in India.

  • Administratively overseen by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

Historical Background:

  • Before independence, accounting in India was governed under the Companies Act by the British Government.

  • A diploma program in accounting for auditors was introduced by the British Government.

  • In 1930, the Government of India established the Register of Accountants.

  • Lack of effective norms led to the perception of an unregulated accounting profession.

  • An expert committee in 1948 recommended the formation of an autonomous body to regulate accounting.

  • The Chartered Accountants Act was enacted in 1949 based on these recommendations.

By admin: July 1, 2024

3. GST (Goods and Services Tax) Day - 1 July 2024

Tags: Important Days

To commemorate the anniversary of the implementation of the historic tax reform of the Goods and Services Tax, 1 July is observed as GST (Goods and Services Tax) Day.

An Overview of the News

  • The first GST Day was celebrated on 1st July 2018 to mark the first anniversary of the new indirect tax regime i.e. Goods and Services Tax (GST).

  • GST was implemented on the intervening night of 30 June and 1 July 2017 in a function held in the Central Hall of Parliament.

  • On 29 March 2017, the Goods and Services Tax Act was passed in the Parliament and the Act came into force on 1 July 2017.

  • GST was enacted as the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016.

What is GST?

  • GST is an indirect tax which has been implemented with the aim of making India a unified common market.

  • It is a single tax levied on the supply of goods and services from the producer to the consumer.

  • Under GST, on the one hand indirect taxes like Central Excise Duty, Additional Excise Duty, Service Tax, Countervailing Duty are included at the Central level.

  • On the other hand, state-levied value addition tax, entertainment tax, octroi and entry tax, luxury tax, etc. are also included.

  • It was introduced with the slogan 'One Nation One Tax'.

Tax Structure under GST

  • Central GST (CGST) to cover excise duty, service tax etc.

  • State GST (SGST) to cover VAT, luxury tax etc.

  • Integrated GST (IGST) to cover inter-state trade.

  • IGST itself is not a tax but a tax system to coordinate state and union taxes.

  • It has a 4-tier tax structure of 5%, 12%, 18% and 28% for all goods and services under the slab.

By admin: June 30, 2024

4. June 2024 Days and Themes

Tags: Important Days

List of Days and Themes for June 2024:

Days

Themes

30 June - International Day of Parliamentarism

"Parliamentary Diplomacy: Building Bridges for Peace and Understanding"

29 June- National Statistics Day

"Use of data for decision-making"

27 June - International Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME)

“Leveraging Power and Resilience of Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to Accelerate Sustainable Development and Eradicate Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises.”

26 June - World Drug Day 

“The evidence is clear: invest in prevention”

24 June - International Women's Day in Diplomacy

"Women's Leadership in Multilateral Diplomacy."

23 June - International Widows Day

"Accelerating the Achievement of Gender Equality."

23 June - International Olympic Day 

 'Let's Move and Celebrate'

21 June - International Yoga Day

"Yoga for Self and Society."

21 June - World Hydrographic Day (WHD)

"Hydrographic Information - Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability in Marine Activities".

20 June - World Refugee Day

 "Solidarity with Refugees,"

19 June - World Sickle Cell Disease Day

"Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally."

18 June - International Day for Countering Hate Speech

"The Power of Youth for Countering and Addressing Hate Speech".

17 June - World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

“United for Land. Our Legacy. Our Future,”

14 June - World Blood Donor Day

"20 years of celebrating giving: thank you, blood donors!"

12 June -  World Day Against Child Labour 

"Let's act on our commitments: End Child Labour."

9 June - World Accreditation Day

"Accreditation: Empowering Tomorrow and Shaping the Future."

8 June - World Oceans Day

"Awaken New Depths,"

5 June- World Environment Day

"Our Land, Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration". 

3 June - World Bicycle Day

“Promoting Health, Equity, and Sustainability through Cycling”.

1 June - World Milk Day 

"celebrating the vital role dairy plays in delivering quality nutrition to nourish the world."

By admin: June 30, 2024

5. International Day of Parliamentarism - 30 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

June 30 is recognized as the International Day of Parliamentarism, which commemorates the founding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1889.

An overview of the news

  • This day holds significance as it provides an opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the progress made by parliaments worldwide in achieving their predetermined goals.

  • International Day of Parliamentarism 2024 Theme:"Parliamentary Diplomacy: Building Bridges for Peace and Understanding"

Definition and Purpose of Parliamentary Diplomacy

  • Parliamentary diplomacy involves fostering relationships and promoting cooperation between national parliaments through various initiatives.

  • It encourages members of parliaments to engage in inter-parliamentary organizations, bilateral exchanges, and other diplomatic efforts.

Objectives of Parliamentary Diplomacy

  • Representing national interests on international platforms.

  • Facilitating dialogue and cooperation with parliamentary counterparts from other countries.

  • Working towards consensus on global issues through diplomatic channels.

Benefits of Parliamentary Diplomacy

  • Enhancing mutual understanding and trust between nations.

  • Contributing to peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts.

  • Strengthening international cooperation and partnerships for sustainable development.

Role of Parliamentarians

  • Advocating for their countries' interests in international forums.

  • Building bridges and promoting cultural exchange through parliamentary engagements.

  • Supporting diplomatic efforts to address global challenges collaboratively.

Background of the day

  • The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in 2018to establish the International Day of Parliamentarism, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary institutions in democratic governance.

  • The Inter-Parliamentary Union was founded in 1889, and the inaugural celebration of the UN International Day of Parliamentarism took place in 1899 to mark its establishment.

  • The day serves as a platform to reflect on the achievements and challenges faced by parliaments globally and to foster dialogue and cooperation among parliamentary bodies.

By admin: June 29, 2024

6. National Statistics Day - 29 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

National Statistics Day is observed annually on 29 June to honour the contribution of Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in statistics and economic planning.

An Overview of the News

  • Professor Mahalanobis, known as the 'Father of Indian Statistics', developed the Mahalanobis distance, a statistical measure to assess the difference between a point and a distribution.

  • Purpose: To create public awareness on the role and importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation for India's development.

  • Designation: Recognized as a "Special Day" by the Government of India.

Statistics Day 2024

  • Theme:"Use of data for decision-making"

  • Significance: Highlights the importance of data-driven decision making for informed decisions and evidence-based policy formulation.

Main Event Details

  • Location: Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, New Delhi

  • Chief Guest: Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman, 16th Finance Commission

  • Key Speakers:

    • Prof. Rajeeva Laxman Karandikar, Chairman, National Statistical Commission (NSC)

    • Dr. Saurabh Garg, Secretary, MoSPI

  • Participants: Senior officers from Central Ministries/Departments, State/UT Governments, representatives of international organizations (World Bank, UN agencies), and other stakeholders.

  • Webcast/Live Stream: The programme was web-casted/live streamed through the social media handles of the Ministry.

Key Highlights

  • Essay Writing Competition: Winners of the ‘On the Spot Essay Writing Competition, 2024’ for Postgraduate Students were felicitated.

  • Report Releases:

    • Sustainable Development Goals - National Indicator Framework Progress Report, 2024

    • Data Snapshot on Sustainable Development Goals - National Indicator Framework, 2024

    • Sustainable Development Goals - National Indicator Framework, 2024

  • Portal Launch: e-Statistics Portal and Central Data Repository for Official Statistics containing time series data of important macro indicators and data asset catalogue of the Ministry were launched.

History of National Statistics Day

  • The Government of India designated 29 June as National Statistics Day on 5 June 2007.

  • The designation was given to acknowledge the significant contributions of Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the field of statistics and economic planning.

  • The first celebration of National Statistics Day took place on 29 June 2007.

  • Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis was a prominent figure who played a key role in the first Planning Commission of India.

  • He was instrumental in the establishment of the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) in 1931.

  • The day is celebrated as a tribute to Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis and his remarkable contribution in the field of statistics.

About Indian Statistical Institute

  • Director - Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay

  • Headquarters - Kolkata

  • Establishment - 17 December 1931

By admin: June 27, 2024

7. International Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day - 27 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

International Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day or World MSME Day is observed across the world on 27 June every year.

An Overview of the News

  • The day highlights the importance of MSMEs and their role as the backbone of the country's economy.

  • The United Nations (UN) reported that MSMEs account for half of global GDP.

  • This year, the theme for MSME Day 2024 is “Leveraging Power and Resilience of Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to Accelerate Sustainable Development and Eradicate Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises.”

Opportunities and Goals for Key Stakeholders

  • The 2024 MSME Day provides an opportunity for key stakeholders to discuss and exchange ideas on supporting MSMEs.

  • Key stakeholders include large corporations, financial institutions, policymakers, and the international community.

  • The focus is on advancing the 2030 Agenda and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals.

  • Goals include poverty eradication and ensuring decent work for all.

History of International Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day

  • The United Nations (UN) designated June 27 as Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Day and this was done through a resolution passed in the United Nations General Assembly in April 2017.

  • In May 2017, a program titled 'Enhancing National Capabilities to Unleash the Full Potential of MSMEs in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Developing Countries' was launched.

  • The objective of the program is to support and enhance the capabilities of MSMEs, especially in developing countries, to maximize their contribution to achieving the SDGs.

  • The program is funded by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development sub-fund of the United Nations Peace and Development Fund.

June 2024 Days and Themes

Days

Themes

23 June - International Widows Day

"Accelerating the Achievement of Gender Equality."

23 June - International Olympic Day 

 'Let's Move and Celebrate'

21 June - International Yoga Day

"Yoga for Self and Society."

21 June - World Hydrographic Day (WHD)

"Hydrographic Information - Enhancing Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability in Marine Activities".

20 June - World Refugee Day

 "Solidarity with Refugees,"

19 June - World Sickle Cell Disease Day

"Hope Through Progress: Advancing Sickle Cell Care Globally."

18 June - International Day for Countering Hate Speech

"The Power of Youth for Countering and Addressing Hate Speech".

17 June - World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

“United for Land. Our Legacy. Our Future,”

14 June - World Blood Donor Day

"20 years of celebrating giving: thank you, blood donors!"

12 June -  World Day Against Child Labour 

"Let's act on our commitments: End Child Labour."

9 June - World Accreditation Day

"Accreditation: Empowering Tomorrow and Shaping the Future."

By admin: June 26, 2024

8. World Drug Day - 26 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, is observed annually on 26 June.

An Overview of the News

  • The purpose of World Drug Day is to promote global efforts to eliminate drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

  • Theme for World Drug Day 2024: “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention”

  • Message: Highlights the importance of effective drug policies.

  • Key Elements:

    • Grounded in science

    • Based on research

    • Founded on compassion

    • Respectful of human rights

Background of World Drug Day

  • The International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Vienna in 1987 recommended a day to be celebrated annually to commemorate the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

  • On December 7, 1987, the United Nations General Assembly decided to observe June 26 as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

  • The objective of this festival is to support the efforts to make the society drug free and to raise awareness about the prevention of drug abuse

  • June 26 was chosen as World Drug Day to commemorate the abolition of the opium trade in Humen, Guangdong by Lin Zexu on June 25, 1839.

About Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)

  • NCB is an Indian central law enforcement and intelligence agency.

  • It works under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

  • It helps in combating drug trafficking as well as use of illegal substances as per the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.

  • It coordinates drug-related matters with state governments and other central departments in India.

  • Established:- 1986

By admin: June 26, 2024

9. Manipur Pledges to Combat Drug Menace on International Drug Day

Tags: State News Important Days

The International Day against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking was observed across Manipur.

An Overview of the News

  • Theme:“The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”

  • Manipur, bordering Myanmar, has struggled with drug abuse for many years.

  • A pledge to eradicate the drug menace was made during the observance.

State Government and Police Actions:

  • Report by J.J. Thokchom highlights the state government's observance in Imphal.

  • Manipur Police marked the day with a bike rally in Imphal City.

  • The rally was flagged off by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.

  • Chief Minister linked the current crisis in Manipur to the BJP-led State Government’s anti-drug campaign.

  • 297 persons involved in drug use have been arrested since the campaign's launch in 2018.

  • Chief Minister emphasized the government's commitment to continuing the campaign against drugs.

State Narcotics and Affairs of Border Report:

  • 18,664 acres of poppy fields destroyed in the last seven years as part of the anti-drug campaign.

  • Poppy seeds contain opium, which is a key source for many narcotics.

By admin: June 24, 2024

10. International Women's Day in Diplomacy: 24 June 2024

Tags: Important Days

International Women's Day in Diplomacy is observed annually on 24 June.

An Overview of the News

  • It is a day to honor and recognize notable women in the field of diplomacy and decision-making globally.

  • Armenian Ambassador Diana Abgar is credited with being the first female diplomat of the 20th century.

  • The 2nd International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) was observed on 24 June 2024.

  • The theme for the 2024 IDWID commemorative events was "Women's Leadership in Multilateral Diplomacy."

  • According to UN Women's Global Data on Women Political Leaders 2024, women remain significantly underrepresented in global executive positions such as Heads of State, Heads of Government, and Cabinet members.

  • India ranks 171st globally in terms of women's representation in Parliament, with only 6.5%.

  • Finland leads with 63.2%, followed by Nicaragua at 62.5%, and Liechtenstein at 60%.

Background of the day:

  • The International Day of Women in Diplomacy was recently established during the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which took place from September 14, 2021 to September 13, 2022.

  • A resolution was adopted during the UNGA on 20 June 2022 that recognized the importance of women's contribution to diplomacy and stressed the need for equal participation of women in decision-making, aligning with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • In line with the resolution, 24 June was officially designated as the International Day of Women in Diplomacy.