Current Affairs - Important Days

World Food Day is celebrated every year on October 16 to raise awareness about global food security, sustainable agricultural practices, and the goal of achieving Zero Hunger. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the day was first observed in 1981. The 2025 observance marks the 80th anniversary of the FAO’s founding. The theme for the celebration, “Sustainable Food Systems for a Healthy Planet,” highlights the importance of responsible production and equitable access to nutritious food worldwide.

World Standards Day is observed every year on October 14 to recognise the efforts of experts and organizations in developing international standards that facilitate global trade, safety, and innovation. The day is promoted by leading standardization bodies, including the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Each year, a theme highlights the importance of standards in improving global quality of life; for 2025, the theme is “A Shared Vision for a Better World,” emphasizing collaboration and the role of standards in creating a safer and more efficient world.

The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is observed globally on October 13. Established in 1989 following a United Nations General Assembly initiative, the day aims to promote a global culture of risk awareness and proactive disaster reduction. The 2025 theme, “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,” emphasises the importance of investing in preparedness, mitigation, and resilient infrastructure rather than solely responding to disasters after they occur. Observing this day encourages governments, communities, and individuals to implement strategies that reduce vulnerability, enhance emergency response, and foster sustainable, disaster-resilient societies worldwide.

National Post Day 2025 is celebrated on October 10 to honour the immense contributions of India Post to the nation’s communication, logistics, and financial inclusion systems. Established by the Government of India in 1982, the day recognises the transformation of India Post from a traditional letter delivery network into a modern digital, financial, and e-commerce service provider. It also highlights India Post’s vital role in empowering rural communities, facilitating welfare schemes, and strengthening last-mile connectivity across the country. The observance forms part of National Postal Week, celebrated from October 9 to 15 every year.

World Mental Health Day is observed every year on October 10 to raise awareness about mental wellbeing, reduce stigma, and promote access to mental health care globally. Established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, the day has become a global movement supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The 2025 theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” emphasises ensuring psychological support during crises such as wars, pandemics, and natural disasters. The observance highlights mental health as a fundamental human right and encourages collective action for inclusive and accessible care worldwide.