1. World MSME Day - 27 June
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 theme of MSME Day 2023 in India is "Future-Ready MSMEs for India@100".
The Global Council for the Promotion of International Trade celebrates the day with the theme "Building a Stronger Future Together".
The Council is launching the #Brand10000MSMEs network, a platform for MSMEs across the globe to connect, learn and grow together.
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 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
26 June - World Drug Day | "People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention." |
24 June - International Day of Women in Diplomacy | "Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development." |
21 June - International Yoga Day | "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" |
21 June - World Music Day | "Music at the Intersections" (2022) |
2. World Drug Day - 26 June
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
World Drug Day aims to promote global efforts to eliminate drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking.
This year's campaign focuses on treating individuals involved in drug use with empathy and respect.
The campaign aims to combat the stigma and discrimination faced by drug users through respectful and non-judgmental language and approach.
The theme for World Drug Day 2023 is "People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention."
The theme emphasizes a people-centred approach to drug policies with a focus on human rights, compassion and evidence-based practices.
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.
June 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
24 June - International Day of Women in Diplomacy | "Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development." |
21 June - International Yoga Day | "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" |
21 June - World Music Day | "Music at the Intersections" (2022) |
20 June - World Refugee Day | "Hope away from home" |
3. International Day of Women in Diplomacy - 24 June
Tags: Important Days
International Women's Day in Diplomacy (IDWID) 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.
Prominent women such as Indira Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher and Sushma Swaraj have contributed significantly in representing their nations at the international level.
India's Permanent Representative/Ambassador to the United Nations in New York Ruchira Kamboj is carrying forward this legacy.
IDWID celebrates the history and importance of women in diplomacy.
Theme of 2023:
The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) is the inaugural forum organized by the Royal Academy of Science International Trust (RASIT).
The theme of this year's IDWID is "Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future: Women in Diplomacy for Sustainable Development."
The theme emphasizes the importance of increasing the participation of women in decision-making and diplomatic roles.
The theme aims to draw attention to these issues and highlight their importance in shaping a sustainable future.
Background of the day:
The International Day of Women in Diplomacy (IDWID) 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.
4. International Olympic Day-23 June
Tags: Important Days
International Olympic Day is celebrated every year on 23 June.
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Olympic Day is an annual celebration that promotes sport, health, and unity worldwide.
Olympic Day symbolizes the commitment to making the world a better place through the power of sport.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded on June 23, 1894, at the Sorbonne in Paris, thanks to the efforts of Pierre de Coubertin. This day marks the revival of the Ancient Olympic Games.
The launch of a global movement on June 23rd seeks to encourage people to prioritize physical activity in their lives.
The theme for this year's Olympic Day is 'Let's Move,' which aims to inspire individuals worldwide to prioritize regular physical activity in their daily lives.
Background of the day
The International Olympic Committee was established in Paris on 23 June 1894.
International Olympic Day was first celebrated in 1948.
In 1948, a total of 9 countries celebrated this day in their respective countries.
But with the energy and positivity with which Olympians have inspired millions across the world over time, the celebration has now become a global one.
Despite any discrimination based on age, gender, etc National Olympic Committees across the world organise creative events based on the three pillars 'Move, Learn and Discover'.
5. World Hydrography Day 2023
Tags: Important Days
World Hydrography Day is an annual celebration held on June 21st to raise awareness about hydrography and its significance.
An overview of the news
The primary objective of hydrography is to measure water depth and identify navigational hazards such as wrecks and rocks.
This is accomplished through various methods, including the use of specialized boats with echo sounders and sonars, laser-equipped survey aircraft, and satellite observations.
Theme of 2023
The theme for World Hydrography Day 2023 is "Hydrography – underpinning the digital twin of the ocean."
This theme emphasizes the interconnectedness of hydrography and oceanography in creating a virtual representation of the ocean known as the "digital twin."
Background of the day
It was established by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) to highlight the importance of hydrography in marine conservation and safe navigation.
The concept of World Hydrography Day was proposed by the IHO in 2005, and it was officially adopted by the UN General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/60/30 Oceans and the Law of the Sea.
What is Hydrography?
Hydrography also involves the calculation of tides and currents in oceans and seas.
It is considered an applied science that supports navigation safety, economic growth, security and defense, scientific research, and the understanding of ocean physics.
6. World Hydrography Day (WHD) celebrated by Indian Navy Hydrographic Department
Tags: Important Days
World Hydrography Day (WHD) was observed by the Indian Navy Hydrographic Department on 21 June 2023.
An Overview of the News
The theme of this year's WHD was "Hydrography – Underpinning the Digital; Twin of the Ocean" to highlight the evolution of virtual representation.
National Hydrographic Office (NHO) in Dehradun organized WHD celebrations with various activities.
The activities aim to raise awareness of the important role of hydrography in ensuring safe navigation and promoting sustainable maritime development.
NHO associates itself with the national policy of self-reliance and Vasudeva Kutumbhkumam.
NHO:
It conducts hydrographic survey activities in various Indian Ocean Region (IOR) coastal countries.
The department has conducted about 96 overseas cooperation surveys, covering 89,000 sq km of water area, and prepared 38 overseas paper charts and 41 electronic navigation charts for IOR littoral countries.
The NHO produces and regularly updates 333 paper navigational charts, 349 electronic navigation charts and various marine publications for the safety of mariners.
The NHO hosted a number of activities to celebrate WHD, including public outreach events and school visits.
7. International Widows Day - 23 June
Tags: Important Days
International Widows Day is observed annually on 23 June.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to raise awareness about the challenging circumstances faced by widows, especially poverty.
The theme for International Widows Day 2023 is "Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality".
The United Nations introduces a new theme each year to highlight the challenges faced by widows.
The theme chosen for 2023 emphasizes the role of innovative solutions and technological advances in promoting gender equality.
History of International Widows Day:
It was established in 2005 by The Loomba Foundation.
In 2010, the United Nations officially adopted International Widows Day, increasing its importance globally.
The recognition from the United Nations ensures that there is international support for the issues faced by widows and the need to address their challenges.
About United Nations
Member countries -193
Official Languages - Russian, English, French, Arabic, Chinese and Spanish.
Motto - Peace, Dignity and Equality on a Healthy Planet
Secretary-General - Antonio Guterres
Headquarters - New York, United States
8. United Nations Public Service Day - 23 June
Tags: Important Days
United Nations Public Service Day is celebrated every year on 23 June.
An Overview of the News
The day is dedicated to appreciating the importance of public services and the people who work in them.
The United Nations established the United Nations Public Service Awards to recognize and reward exceptional public service projects.
The award program was updated in 2016 to align with the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
United Nations Public Service Day reminds us of the value of public service and encourages young people to consider careers in this field.
History of United Nations Public Service Day
On 20 December 2002, the General Assembly designated 23 June as United Nations Public Service Day.
It aims to recognize the important role of public service in development.
The United Nations Public Service Awards (UNPSA) were created to honor exemplary public service institutions.
UNPSA aims to improve government effectiveness and enhance public welfare.
Public service refers to the services provided by the government in a specific area.
Civil servants work to make a positive difference in people's lives and prioritize the well-being of the community.
United Nations Public Service Day and UNPSA promote the importance of public service around the world.
June 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
21 June - International Yoga Day | "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" |
21 June - World Music Day | "Music at the Intersections" (2022) |
20 June - World Refugee Day | "Hope away from home" |
19 June - International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict | "Bridging the gender digital divide to prevent, address and respond to conflict-related sexual violence." |
9. World Music Day - 21 June
Tags: Important Days
World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, is celebrated annually on 21 June.
An Overview of the News
The program emphasizes the impact of music and its ability to connect people universally.
Musicians from different genres come together to showcase their talents in public areas.
World Music Day promotes a vibrant and inclusive environment for people around the world to appreciate music.
The theme for World Music Day 2022 was "Music at the Intersections".
The theme aims to explore and appreciate music at an intersectional level, highlighting the diverse influences and connections within music.
History of World Music Day:
The concept dates back to 1982, when French Minister of Culture Jacques Lang proposed the idea of a day dedicated to music.
An alternative theory suggests that the festival can be traced back to 1976 when Joel Cohen proposed an all-night concert to celebrate the summer solstice.
The first World Music Day event took place in Paris in 1982, with over 1,000 musicians performing in different parts of the city.
Musicians of all genres and backgrounds took to the streets, parks and concert venues to share their passion for music at the opening ceremony.
10. International Yoga Day - 21 June
Tags: Important Days
International Yoga Day is celebrated every year on 21 June.
An Overview of the News
The day aims to promote the many benefits of practicing yoga.
The date chosen coincides with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
International Yoga Day encourages physical, mental and spiritual harmony.
The theme chosen for International Day of Yoga 2023 is "Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam".
The theme represents the shared desire of "One Earth, One Family, One Future".
Yoga promotes meditation, stress reduction, and overall health and vitality.
In 2023, the International Day of Yoga took place on June 21 at the United Nations Headquarters under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This is the first time that a yoga session was organized by the Prime Minister at this place.
History of International Yoga Day
Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed the idea of a dedicated Yoga Day in 2014 during his speech at the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
On 11 December 2014, all 193 member states of the United Nations unanimously agreed to observe 21 June as the International Day of Yoga.
The inaugural ceremony of International Day of Yoga took place on June 21, 2015.
International Yoga Day has received global recognition and is celebrated in more than 190 countries.
June 2023 Days and Themes
Days | Themes |
14 June - World Blood Donor Day | "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often." |
13 June - International Albinism Awareness Day | "United in making our voices heard" |
12 June - World Day Against Child Labour | "Social Justice for All. End Child Labour!" |
8 June - World Oceans Day | "Planet Ocean: The Tides Are Changing". |