Current Affairs - Important Days

International Friendship Day is officially observed by the United Nations on July 30 every year. The day emphasises the importance of friendship in promoting peace, harmony, and solidarity among individuals, communities, and nations. Established by the UN General Assembly in 2011, the observance seeks to inspire initiatives that foster mutual understanding and respect globally. While many countries, including India, celebrate Friendship Day on the first Sunday of August (which falls on August 3 in 2025), the internationally recognised date remains July 30. This observance encourages people to acknowledge and cherish the positive impact friendships have in both personal lives and international relations.

International Tiger Day, also known as Global Tiger Day, is observed every year on July 29 to raise awareness about tiger conservation. The day was established during the First International Tiger Forum held in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 2010, with participation from 13 Tiger Range Countries. The forum, hosted under the leadership of Russian President Vladimir Putin, culminated in the adoption of the St. Petersburg Declaration on Tiger Conservation. This declaration aimed to double the global tiger population by 2022, recognising the alarming decline in tiger numbers and the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to protect them and their habitats.

World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to increase global awareness about viral hepatitis, a serious disease that can lead to liver inflammation, chronic liver disease, and even liver cancer. The date was selected in honour of Dr. Baruch Blumberg, who made groundbreaking contributions to hepatitis research by discovering the Hepatitis B virus, developing its diagnostic test and vaccine, and earning a Nobel Prize for his work. The day is marked by awareness campaigns, educational programs, and initiatives around the world, and the 2025 theme is “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down,” emphasising the importance of simplifying prevention and treatment.

World Nature Conservation Day is observed annually on July 28 to highlight the urgent need for preserving the environment and natural resources. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices that ensure a balance between human needs and ecological stability. Conservation plays a critical role in combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and promoting a healthier planet for future generations. The 2025 theme, “Restoration, Resilience and Responsibility,” underscores the global commitment to reversing environmental damage, building adaptive communities, and embracing individual and collective responsibility toward nature conservation.

The International Day for Women and Girls of African Descent is observed annually on July 25. This day is dedicated to celebrating the achievements, resilience, and leadership of women and girls of African heritage worldwide. It brings attention to the intersecting challenges they face due to racial, gender, and economic discrimination. The observance highlights their role in driving societal progress despite systemic barriers, and aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Gender Equality and Reduced Inequalities. By commemorating this date, the global community is reminded of the need for continued advocacy and action toward equity and justice.