International Day of Light - 16 May

Tags: Important Days

The International Day of Light is observed annually on May 16 to recognize the significant role of light in science, culture, art, education, and sustainable development. 

An Overview of the News

• It also highlights its impact on fields such as medicine, communications, and energy.

• 2024 Edition: May 16, 2024, marks the 7th edition of UNESCO's International Day of Light.

Significance of May 16

• Historical Event: May 16 commemorates the anniversary of the first successful laser operation in 1960 by American physicist and engineer Theodore Harold Maiman.

Background of International Day of Light

• UNESCO Resolution: On November 7, 2017, the UNESCO General Conference adopted a resolution (39 C/Resolution 16) officially proclaiming May 16 as the International Day of Light.

• Inaugural Observance: The first International Day of Light was observed on May 16, 2018.

About UNESCO

• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN).

• It is also a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UN SDG), a coalition of United Nations agencies and organisations that aims to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

  • Headquarters:- Paris, France

  • Director General: Audrey Azoulay

  • Founded: 16 November 1945in London, United Kingdom

  • The organisation has -193 members and 11 associate members.