Current Affairs - Important Days

World Chess Day is observed every year on July 20 to honour the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924. This global celebration recognises chess as more than a game—it is a tool for cognitive development, social inclusion, and international cooperation. The day was proposed by UNESCO in 1966 and continues to be marked worldwide through educational activities, chess tournaments, and cultural events. The observance draws attention to the game's historical roots in ancient India and its journey to becoming a universally respected intellectual sport.

World Day for International Justice is observed every year on July 17 to commemorate the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC). This day highlights the global commitment to upholding international criminal justice and holding perpetrators of serious crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity accountable. The observance also aims to raise awareness about victims' rights, promote cooperation among countries, and reinforce the rule of law as a pillar of global peace and security. Events are organised worldwide, including educational programs, survivor testimonies, and social media campaigns under #JusticeDay2025.

World Snake Day was celebrated on July 16, 2025, at Bannerghatta Biological Park in Bengaluru, highlighting the importance of snake conservation. The event brought together conservationists, India Post, and NGOs to foster awareness through creative mediums like philately and interactive wildlife education. Over 500 students participated in sessions focused on snake ecology, coexistence, and ecosystem importance. By engaging the youth and promoting understanding of snakes, the event aimed to combat fear, reduce human-snake conflicts, and inspire conservation-oriented behaviour. Celebrating on July 16, aligned with global observance of World Snake Day, reinforces the message of biodiversity protection and environmental responsibility.

World Youth Skills Day is celebrated every year on July 15, as declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. The day was first observed in 2015 and aims to emphasise the crucial role of skills development in enhancing youth employment, fostering decent work opportunities, and encouraging entrepreneurship. In 2025, the event marks its 10th anniversary with the theme “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills,” focusing on equipping young people with modern tools and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. The day serves as a global platform to recognise and promote youth skill-building efforts.

World Population Day is observed annually on July 11 to raise awareness about global population issues. It was established in 1989 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In 2025, the global population will surpass 8.1 billion, with India becoming the most populous nation. The observance aims to draw attention to population-related challenges and solutions, with the 2025 theme focusing on empowering young people in shaping their family futures. This day provides an important platform for highlighting reproductive health, family planning, and gender equality on a global scale.