Current Affairs - Important Days

National Maritime Day is observed every year on April 5 in India to honour and recognize the immense contributions of the maritime industry to the nation’s trade, economy, and security. The day commemorates the historic maiden voyage of the Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd from India to the UK in 1919, which symbolized a key moment in challenging British control over Indian maritime routes. Celebrated since 1964, the day acknowledges the role of maritime professionals and promotes awareness around sustainable shipping, technological progress, and maritime safety, making it a significant occasion in India’s national calendar.

The RBI has announced that the new ATM withdrawal fee of ₹23 per transaction will be effective from May 1, 2025. This fee applies to transactions beyond the free usage limits, which include 5 free transactions at own-bank ATMs per month, 3 at other banks in metro areas, and 5 in non-metro areas. The revision was made to address the increasing costs of ATM maintenance, with the last fee adjustment having occurred in 2021.

International Mine Awareness Day is observed annually on April 4 to raise awareness about the dangers posed by landmines and to promote global efforts for their removal. The day highlights the significant impact of landmines on civilian populations, particularly in war-affected regions. It also emphasizes the importance of demining activities, victim assistance, and the adoption of new technologies to address this issue. The theme for 2025, "Safe Futures Start Here," underscores the need for a landmine-free world, with support from the United Nations and various international organizations.

World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is observed annually on April 2, and in 2025, it will be celebrated under the theme "Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)." Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this day aims to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of autistic individuals globally. The focus has evolved from raising basic awareness to advocating for neurodiversity, inclusive policies, and sustainable development practices that support the rights and contributions of autistic people in society.

The International Day of Zero Waste is observed on March 30 each year, as declared by the United Nations General Assembly through a resolution adopted on December 14, 2022. This global initiative, led by Türkiye with support from 105 countries, aims to promote sustainable waste management practices and reduce environmental degradation. The focus of the day is to raise awareness about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, with the 2025 theme emphasizing zero waste in the fashion and textile industry.