Current Affairs - Important Days

Police Commemoration Day is observed annually on October 21 in India to honour police personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. The date commemorates a tragic ambush in 1959 at Hot Springs, Ladakh, where ten Indian police officers were killed and several captured by Chinese troops. The day serves to remember their courage and dedication while reinforcing morale and pride within the police forces. Ceremonies at the National Police Memorial in New Delhi, along with public events during the following Commemoration Week, highlight the sacrifices made by police personnel and strengthen public awareness of their vital role in maintaining internal security.

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed annually on October 17, as designated by the United Nations. Established to raise awareness about poverty and honour the efforts of those living in poverty, the day emphasises dignity, justice, and inclusive development. In 2025, the theme focuses on family-centric poverty eradication, highlighting the importance of supportive institutions and policies that respect and empower families, particularly marginalised and vulnerable communities. The observance calls for transforming social support systems to ensure trust, fairness, and effective aid for those experiencing poverty worldwide.

World Anaesthesia Day is observed annually on October 16 to honour the groundbreaking event in 1846 when ether anaesthesia was publicly used for the first time, revolutionizing surgical procedures. The discovery, demonstrated by William T. G. Morton and followed by the first painless surgery performed by Dr. John Collins Warren, marked a turning point in medical history. This day celebrates the vital role of anaesthesiology in healthcare and its contribution to making surgeries safer and more humane. The 2025 theme, “Anaesthesiology in Health Emergencies,” highlights its crucial role in crisis medical care.

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.