Current Affairs - Important Days

World Bicycle Day is celebrated annually on June 3. The United Nations General Assembly established this day in 2018 to acknowledge the versatility, longevity, and environmental benefits of the bicycle as a means of transportation. It highlights the importance of cycling as a simple, affordable, and sustainable mode of travel that contributes to health and reduces carbon emissions. Observing World Bicycle Day aims to encourage governments and individuals alike to incorporate cycling into everyday life to support sustainable development and public health.

World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on May 31, as designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its Member States. It was established in 1987 to raise global awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and to advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. In 1988, the WHO passed Resolution WHA42.19, formally calling for the annual observance of this day. The day serves to highlight the dangers of tobacco and promote actions to reduce its use. For 2025, the theme is ‘Bright products. Dark intentions. Unmasking the Appeal’.

Hindi Journalism Day is observed annually on May 30, commemorating the launch of India’s first Hindi newspaper, Udant Martand, on May 30, 1826. This day celebrates nearly two centuries of Hindi journalism’s significant role in shaping public awareness, democracy, and cultural identity in India. Hindi journalism has empowered millions by providing news in a widely understood language, thus strengthening the democratic fabric and fostering participation in national discourse. The day is marked by various academic and cultural events that honour the legacy and ongoing contributions of Hindi journalism despite modern challenges.

The International Day of Potato is observed on May 30 each year, as designated by the General Assembly in December 2023. The purpose of this observance is to highlight the important role the potato plays in global food security, nutrition, and economic development, particularly for rural communities. The theme for the occasion is “Shaping history, feeding the future,” reflecting the crop’s historical importance and its ongoing contribution to sustainable food systems. This date serves as a global reminder of the value and impact of this staple food crop across various sectors.

World Dugong Day is observed on May 28 to raise awareness about the conservation of dugongs, also known as "sea cows." These gentle, herbivorous marine mammals feed on seagrass and are found in Indian waters, including areas like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and the Gulf of Kutch. Dugongs play a vital role in maintaining the health of seagrass ecosystems, often referred to as the "farmers of the sea." Given their declining population and status as regionally endangered in India, this day emphasizes the urgent need to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.