Current Affairs - Important Days

Engineers Day 2025 is celebrated on September 15 across India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, born in 1861 at Muddenahalli, Karnataka. Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest engineers, he made pioneering contributions in civil engineering, dam construction, flood management, and urban planning. His leadership as the Diwan of Mysore from 1912–1918 modernised the state through industries, schools, and railways. Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1955, he remains a symbol of engineering brilliance. Since its first observance in 1967, Engineers Day has inspired innovation and celebrated the role of engineers in shaping India’s future.

The International Day of Democracy 2025 is observed on September 15 to highlight the significance of democratic governance, citizen participation, and the protection of fundamental rights. First established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, it was aligned with the Universal Declaration on Democracy adopted by the Inter-Parliamentary Union in 1997. Each year, the observance serves as a reminder of the importance of democracy in ensuring political equality, accountability, and the inclusion of marginalised voices. The 2025 theme, “Achieving Gender Equality, Action by Action,” emphasises that democracy thrives only when gender equality and inclusiveness are fully realised.

World First Aid Day 2025 will be observed on September 13, aligning with the tradition of marking the event on the second Saturday of September each year. Established by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, this day highlights the critical role of first aid in saving lives and reducing the severity of injuries. The 2025 theme, “First Aid and Climate Change,” emphasises preparedness for emergencies linked to floods, wildfires, and heatwaves. By promoting first aid education, the observance empowers individuals and communities to respond effectively in crises, making societies safer and more resilient.

National Forest Martyrs Day is observed on September 11 each year to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives while protecting India’s forests and biodiversity. The day commemorates the Khejarli Massacre of 1730 in Rajasthan, where Amrita Devi Bishnoi and 363 villagers gave their lives to save Khejri trees, a historic act that later inspired the Chipko Movement. In 2025, the theme is “Remembering Martyrs, Protecting Forests”, highlighting the importance of honouring past sacrifices while encouraging active participation in conservation. Activities such as tree plantation drives, awareness campaigns, and memorial ceremonies reinforce the commitment to environmental protection.

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on September 10 to raise awareness about suicide prevention and promote global action. The 2025 observance is marked under the triennial theme “Changing the Narrative,” which emphasises reducing stigma, encouraging open dialogue, and prioritizing mental health at all levels. Each year, more than 720,000 people die by suicide worldwide, making it a leading cause of death among young people. By dedicating this day, global organizations like the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) aim to foster compassion, evidence-based prevention, and proactive support systems.