Current Affairs - Important Days

The International Day of Happiness is celebrated every year on March 20. This day was established to promote happiness as a fundamental human goal, with the United Nations emphasizing the importance of well-being and sustainable development for global happiness. The celebration encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to prioritize happiness in policies and daily life, making it an essential occasion for promoting a more inclusive and balanced approach to economic growth and overall human well-being.

World Sparrow Day is celebrated annually on March 20th to raise awareness about the declining population of house sparrows and to encourage conservation efforts. The event, first initiated by Nature Forever Society in 2010, has grown in importance and recognition worldwide. It aims to highlight the threats to sparrow populations, promote bird-friendly urban planning, and encourage conservation campaigns. By celebrating this day, people from over 50 countries work together to protect sparrows and ensure their survival in both urban and rural environments.

Ordnance Factory Day is observed every year on March 18 to commemorate the establishment of the first Ordnance Factory in colonial India near Kolkata in 1801. This day highlights the crucial role of Indian Ordnance Factories in enhancing the country's defence sector. The first-ever Ordnance Factories Day was celebrated on March 15, 1802, marking a significant milestone in India's defence history. The celebration emphasizes the research, development, and production capabilities of the Indian Ordnance Factories, which continue to support the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

National Vaccination Day is observed annually on March 16 to emphasize India’s commitment to public health through immunisation. This day marks the first dose of the oral polio vaccine administered under the Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme in 1995. The day serves to raise awareness about the importance of vaccines, honour healthcare workers, and encourage community participation in immunisation drives. It is a reminder of the importance of vaccination in eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases and protecting future generations.

World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on March 15 to promote consumer rights globally. This date holds historical significance due to a speech delivered by U.S. President John F. Kennedy on March 15, 1962, where he formally recognized the importance of consumer rights. The day aims to highlight consumer-related issues, raise awareness, and advocate for fair practices in the marketplace. The theme for World Consumer Rights Day 2025 is ‘A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles,’ emphasizing the need for sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices for all consumers.