IMPORTANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DAYS — DATES AND SIGNIFICANCE

PRERNA FOR IAS

         Mehnat Aapki, Guidance Humari

         Roz ki Prelims Practice — Experts ke Saath

IMPORTANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DAYS — DATES AND SIGNIFICANCE

1. Importance of Commemorative Days

• Important national and international days commemorate historical events, national leaders, constitutional values, social causes, health concerns and environmental issues.
• They are useful for competitive examinations because questions often test the date, purpose and institution associated with each observance.
• A distinction should be made between national commemorations declared by India and international observances recognised by the United Nations or specialised agencies.

2. Republic Day — 26 January

• India celebrates Republic Day on 26 January every year.
• On 26 January 1950, the Constitution of India came into force and India became a Republic.
• The date also recalls the declaration of Purna Swaraj by the Indian National Congress in 1930.
• The national celebration includes the Republic Day parade and presentation of honours for distinguished service.

3. Independence Day — 15 August

• Independence Day is celebrated on 15 August to commemorate India’s freedom from British rule in 1947.
• The Prime Minister traditionally hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and addresses the nation.
• The day symbolises sovereignty, national unity and remembrance of the freedom struggle.

4. Gandhi Jayanti — 2 October

• 2 October marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, born in 1869.
• It is observed nationally as Gandhi Jayanti and internationally as the International Day of Non-Violence.
• The United Nations designated 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence in 2007. (United Nations)

5. Teachers’ Day — 5 September

• India celebrates Teachers’ Day on 5 September, the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
• The day honours the contribution of teachers to education and nation-building.
• The National Teachers’ Awards are traditionally presented on this occasion. (National Teachers' Awards)

6. Ambedkar Jayanti — 14 April