Current Affairs - Important Days

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is observed annually on February 11 to promote gender equality in STEM fields. Established by the United Nations in 2015, this day highlights the crucial role of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The 2025 theme, "Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science," emphasizes encouraging young women to pursue careers in these fields and addressing barriers that hinder their progress. Achieving gender equality in science is essential for innovation, economic development, and the success of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

International Epilepsy Day is observed on the second Monday of February each year to raise awareness about epilepsy, its diagnosis, treatment, and impact on individuals. In 2025, it falls on February 10, with the theme “MyEpilepsyJourney,” encouraging people with epilepsy to share their experiences. The event aims to foster a supportive community, improve public understanding, and enhance medical accessibility for epilepsy patients worldwide. With millions affected by epilepsy, particularly in developing nations, this observance plays a crucial role in advocating for better care and reducing the stigma associated with the condition.

Anti-Smuggling Day is observed annually on February 11 to raise awareness about the threats posed by smuggling to national security and the economy. Organized by FICCI’s CASCADE initiative, this day highlights the dangers of illegal trade, including arms smuggling, fake currency circulation, and drug trafficking. Smuggling not only weakens economic stability by causing revenue losses but also strengthens organized crime and terrorist activities. By promoting international cooperation and coordinated enforcement efforts, Anti-Smuggling Day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to combat illicit trade through awareness campaigns, seminars, and policy discussions.

World Pulses Day is observed every year on February 10 to highlight the importance of pulses as a sustainable and nutritious food source. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019, the day builds on the success of the 2016 International Year of Pulses. It emphasizes the role of pulses in global food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. Pulses, such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans, are rich in proteins, dietary fibre, and essential nutrients. The observance promotes their contribution to eradicating hunger, improving human health, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation was observed on February 6, 2025. This day raises awareness about the harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), which is a violation of human rights affecting millions of girls and women globally. The 2025 theme, “Step Up the Pace,” highlights the importance of strengthening alliances and increasing efforts to eliminate FGM by 2030. Despite a decline in global prevalence over the past three decades, millions of girls remain at risk, particularly in regions affected by conflict, climate change, and disease outbreaks.