Current Affairs - Important Days

World Anaesthesia Day is observed annually on October 16 to acknowledge the crucial role of anaesthesia in modern medicine. This date marks the historic demonstration of diethyl ether anaesthesia by William Thomas Green Morton in 1846 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Morton's groundbreaking experiment revolutionized medical care by enabling painless surgeries, enhancing patient safety, and improving outcomes. The day honours the contributions of anesthesiologists worldwide and recognizes the significance of anaesthesia in transforming medical practices.

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed every year on October 17th. This significant global event aims to raise awareness about the critical need to eradicate poverty in all its forms. The day commemorates the historic gathering in 1987 at the Trocadéro in Paris, where over 100,000 individuals united to honour victims of extreme poverty. Recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992, October 17th serves as a reminder for the international community to work together towards eliminating poverty and advancing human dignity, with the theme for 2024 focusing on addressing social and institutional maltreatment.

World Students’ Day is celebrated annually on October 15 to commemorate the life and contributions of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, a revered educator, scientist, and former President of India. This day marks Dr. Kalam’s birthday and pays tribute to his dedication to education, innovation, and the youth of the nation. Established in 2010, World Students’ Day emphasizes the importance of education in achieving personal and societal progress, reflecting Dr. Kalam's belief in hard work, discipline, and passion. The celebration serves to inspire students to pursue their goals while honouring Dr. Kalam's enduring legacy.

World Food Day is observed annually on October 16 to raise global awareness about hunger, malnutrition, and food security. This day marks a call to action to ensure everyone's right to adequate nutrition. The theme for World Food Day 2024, "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future," emphasizes the importance of accessible, diverse, nutritious, and safe food. Established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, World Food Day aims to promote global cooperation and sustainable solutions to eradicate hunger.

World Standards Day is celebrated annually on October 14 to honour the significant contributions of individuals and organizations involved in developing and implementing international standards. These standards are crucial for ensuring safety, quality, efficiency, and interoperability across various industries. The day raises awareness about the importance of standardization in facilitating international trade and improving the quality of life. In 2024, the theme is “Advancing Health Equity through Standards,” highlighting the role of standards in addressing global challenges such as digital transformation and climate change.