World Hepatitis Day 2022

 On July 28, World Hepatitis Day is celebrated across the World, annually. The day seeks to raise awareness on the Hepatitis, which cause deaths of around 125 000 people in Africa every year, even though the disease can be cured.

Theme of the World Hepatitis Day 2022:

• In year 2022, the World Hepatitis Day is being celebrated under the theme- “Bringing hepatitis care closer to you”.
• This theme is aimed at highlighting the usefulness of bringing hepatitis care closer to primary health care facilities and communities.
• It also seeks to ensure better access to treatment and care.

About Hepatitis:

It is inflammation of the liver tissue. Some people or animals show no symptoms of hepatitis. On the other hand, others people develop yellow discoloration of skin and whites of the eyes, vomiting, poor appetite, abdominal pain, tiredness, and diarrhoea. The disease is acute, if it is treated within six months. It can be turned chronic, if it lasts more than six months.  Acute hepatitis can be treated on its own, while chronic hepatitis causes failure of liver. Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver cancer and liver failure.

Hepatitis case burden in WHO African Region:

In Africa, over 90 million people are living with hepatitis. It accounts for 26% of total cases worldwide. The disease goes undetected mostly, because of absence of any symptoms. As per WHO, prevalence of Hepatitis B in around 8% of the total populations across 19 countries. Hepatitis C is prevalent among 1% population across18 countries. Transmission of Hepatitis B from mother to child is high.

July 25: World Drowning Prevention Day

 On July 25, the World Drowning Prevention Day is observed across the world. This day was recognised by the United Nations in a bid to collectively start action towards drowning prevention with the objective of making the world sustainably-developed.

UN General Assembly Resolution:

• United Nation General Assembly had recognized the World Drowning Prevention Day in April 2021 through a resolution.
• This global advocacy event has now become an opportunity to put in public the tragic impact of drowning on families and communities.
• The day seeks to provide solutions in a bid to prevent the drowning as well.

The World Drowning Prevention Day is celebrated globally, in which;

• Stakeholders including UN agencies, governments, private sector, civil society organisations, academia and individuals are asked to observe this Day by focusing on the requirement of take coordinated, urgent and multi-sectoral action on proven measures to prevent drowning.
• Preparations for the World Drowning Prevention Day is done by the World Health Organisations (WHO), by producing advocacy materials, supporting local & national activities across the world and hosting a global launch event.
• In year 2022, WHO invited public to ‘do one thing’ to save lives on the occasion. It recommended to use hashtag #DrowningPrevention, on social media.

Global estimate on Drowning

As per UN, around 236,000 people drown annually. Thus, it has become a major health problem across the world. Drowning is among the major causes of death for people aged 1 to 24 years. It is the third leading cause for unintentional injury death. It accounts for 7% of all injury-related deaths. As per WHO estimate, over 90% of drowning deaths occur in low and middle-income countries.

Goods and Services Tax (GST) Day

 The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Day is observed annually on July 1, in India.

Key Facts

• GST Day is observed to commemorate the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).
• GST Day was first observed on July 1, 2018 marking the one-year anniversary of implementation of the new tax regime.

When was GST launched?

• GST was launched on intervening night of June 30 and July 1, 2017, in a ceremony held in the central hall of Parliament.
• GST had replaced the old indirect tax regime in India.
• It was introduced with the idea of “One Nation- One Market- One Tax”.
• Year 2022 marks the fifth anniversary of GST.

What is GST?

GST is an indirect, multi-stage, consumption-based tax system. It subsumes several domestic indirect taxes like service tax, purchase tax, value-added tax, excise duty, and others under one head. However, items including petroleum, liquor, and stamp duty have not been added to GST. These items follow the old tax system.

Background

Idea to launch a new tax regime came into existence, when a committee was set up in 2002 to draft GST laws. This committee submitted its report in 2004. Later in 2006, finance minister proposed to introduce GST on April 1, 2010. It took more than 17 years for GST laws to come into force.

Three taxes under GST

There are three taxes application under the GST namely, CGST, SGST, and IGST. Central government collects CGST on intra-state sale on the other hand, SGST is collected by state government on intra-state sale. Central government collects IGST on an inter-state sale.

Tax Slabs under GST

Currently, there are four tax slabs under GST viz.  5 %, 12 %, 18 %, and 28 %.

Objectives of GST laws

Main objective of GST laws is to eliminate the cascading effect of taxes. It is also aimed at expanding the base of taxpayer in India by simplifying taxation process.

National Statistics Day

 The National Statistics Day is observed on June 29, each year. It aims to raise public awareness on value of statistics in everyday life and planning & development process.

History of the Day

The National Statistics Day is being observed in India since 2007. It is celebrated to honour exceptional contributions made by Professor Mahanlanobis in statistical research & economic planning. June 29 also marks the birthday of Professor PC Mahalanobis. Indian Gazette initially published a notification about observing the “National Statistics Day” on June 5, 2007.

Theme of the day

The National Statistics Day 2022 was observed under the theme– “Data for Sustainable Development”.

Significance of the Day

The National Statistics Day is observed to honour Professor Mahalanobis as well as to promote the use of statistics in daily life. It main goal is to raise public awareness on the role played by statistics in formulating and affecting public policy.

Which is the implementing authority?

The Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation (MOSPI) is in charge of planning for “National Statistics Day”.

Who is PC Mahalanobis?

In post-independent era, Mahalanobis became a significant figure in the field of collecting essential statistical data. It further allowed the government in setting policies. PC Mahalanobis graduated with honours in physics in 1912, from Presidency College of Calcutta. He then moved to England for studying physics and mathematics at University of Cambridge. After returning, he taught at the Presidency College and established Indian Statistical Institute in Calcutta in 1931. He established National Sample Survey in 1950, in a bid to provide comprehensive socio-economic statistics. He was also a member of Planning Commission of India during 1955-1967. Second Five-Year Plan was based on Mahalanobis’s mathematical description of Indian economy and it later came to be known as Mahalanobis model.

July 11: World Population Day

 World Population Day is celebrated on July 11 annually, across the world. The day seeks to raise awareness on global population issues.

Theme of World Population Day 2022

The World Population Day 2022 was celebrated under the theme “A world of 8 billion: Towards a resilient future for all – Harnessing opportunities and ensuring rights and choices for all”.

Aim of the World Population Day

The World Population Day aims to raise awareness on the issue of population as well as to address those issues urgently.

History of the day

United Nations development Programme started observing the “World Population Day” in 1989. This decision was taken after the global population reached 5 billion-mark on July 11, 1987. It is being celebrated for more than three decades. Now this day seeks to spread awareness on population control measures. United Nations General Assembly has recognized this day in December 1990, under its resolution 45/26. This resolution aims to raise awareness about increasing population along with population issues like fundamental rights, equality, development, poverty, and environment.

What is the need of population control?

As per United Nations Population Fund, global population is increasing at a rapid pace. It is set to touch 8 billion-mark in 2022, as compared to seven billion in 2011. Population is increasing by 1.10 percent per year. It accounts for addition of 83 million people annually. Population is likely to reach 8.6 billion in 2030 and 11.2 billion in 2100.

Significance of the Day

World Population Day seeks is significant, because it deals with the problems of overpopulation as well as raise awareness on impacts of overpopulation on the development and environment. It also deals with health problems faced by childbearing women and highlights the significance of family planning, poverty, gender equality, human rights and maternal health.

National Statistics Day

 The National Statistics Day is observed on June 29, each year. It aims to raise public awareness on value of statistics in everyday life and planning & development process.

History of the Day

The National Statistics Day is being observed in India since 2007. It is celebrated to honour exceptional contributions made by Professor Mahanlanobis in statistical research & economic planning. June 29 also marks the birthday of Professor PC Mahalanobis. Indian Gazette initially published a notification about observing the “National Statistics Day” on June 5, 2007.

Theme of the day

The National Statistics Day 2022 was observed under the theme– “Data for Sustainable Development”.

Significance of the Day

The National Statistics Day is observed to honour Professor Mahalanobis as well as to promote the use of statistics in daily life. It main goal is to raise public awareness on the role played by statistics in formulating and affecting public policy.

Which is the implementing authority?

The Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation (MOSPI) is in charge of planning for “National Statistics Day”.

Who is PC Mahalanobis?

In post-independent era, Mahalanobis became a significant figure in the field of collecting essential statistical data. It further allowed the government in setting policies. PC Mahalanobis graduated with honours in physics in 1912, from Presidency College of Calcutta. He then moved to England for studying physics and mathematics at University of Cambridge. After returning, he taught at the Presidency College and established Indian Statistical Institute in Calcutta in 1931. He established National Sample Survey in 1950, in a bid to provide comprehensive socio-economic statistics. He was also a member of Planning Commission of India during 1955-1967. Second Five-Year Plan was based on Mahalanobis’s mathematical description of Indian economy and it later came to be known as Mahalanobis model.

World Malaria Day

 Annually on the 25^th of April World Malaria Day is observed across the world to highlight the need for sustained political commitment and continued investment so as to prevent and control malaria across the world

Overview:

The World Health Organization has continuously highlighted the need for and also called for innovations and investments to bring in new vector control approaches, antimalarial medicines, diagnostics, and other tools that will help in fighting against malaria.

The theme of World Malaria Day 2022

The theme for this year’s world malaria day is “Harness innovation to reduce the malaria disease burden and save lives.”

Significance of this day

The day is significant as despite being a treatable disease, Malaria continues to impact the livelihoods of people all over the world. According to the WHO, in the year 2020 around 241 million new cases of malaria and 6,27,000 fatalities due to malaria in 85 nations were witnessed. In the African region, more than two-thirds of the reported fatalities were among children who were below the age of 5. This data shows that in spite of achieving steady advances against malaria from 2000 to 2015, there has been a slowdown in recent years, especially in the countries of Sub-Saharan Africa.

History of this day

In 2007, WHO got the idea of observing this day came from Africa Malaria Day, which is observed by the African government since 2001. At the WHO-sponsored World Health Assembly’s 60^th session it was proposed to change the Africa Malaria day to World Malaria Day. This was done with the aim of generating greater awareness regarding the fight against malaria.

World Heritage Day

 On the 18^th of April every year, World Heritage Day is celebrated across the world. This day is also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites.

Overview:

• This day is observed to generate awareness about the importance of Heritage.
• This day also promotes ways to preserve and protect heritage across the world.

The theme of World Heritage Day 2022

The theme for this year’s World Heritage Day is ‘Heritage and Climate’. The theme of this year promotes heritage conservation practices and research with the aim of delivering pathways that are climate-resilient to strengthen sustainable development while advocating for low-carbon futures.

History of this day

In the year 1982, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) first floated the idea of observing International Day for Monuments and Sites with the aim of promoting awareness about cultural heritage, their vulnerability and the efforts that are required for their conservation. Later the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in its 22^nd General Conference in 1983 adopted the resolution. Since then, this day has been observed annually across the world.

About World Heritage Sites that are present in India

In India, there are a total of 3691 sites and monuments. 40 among those have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some of the designated sites are the Ajanta Caves, Taj Mahal, and Ellora Caves. Natural sites like the Kaziranga National Park in Assam has also been included among World Heritage Sites.

International Day of Human Space Flight

 On the 12^th of April, the International Day of Human Space Flight is celebrated annually. This day is celebrated to commemorate humankind’s beginning of the space era and also highlights the importance of space technology and science.

History of the day

On 12^th April 1961, the first human space flight was carried out by Yuri Gagarin, a citizen of the Soviet Union. On the Vostok 1 mission, he completed one orbit around the planet for over 108 minutes. The spacecraft on which he orbited around the planet was named Vostok 3KA and it was launched on a rocket named Vostok-K. The launch took place from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, USSR.

Resolution passed by UNGA

On 7^th April 2011, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution declaring 12^th April to be celebrated as the International Day of Human Space Flight while the USSR decided to celebrate 12^th April as Cosmonautics Day. Even today in Russia and some parts of the former Soviet Union this day is celebrated. On 12^th April, World’s Space Party or Yuri’s Night is also organized to commemorate the milestones achieved in space exploration.

Significance of this day

This day is observed to celebrate that exploring outer space added a new dimension to the existence of humanity. It also highlights the unique benefits of outer space-related experiments that can be utilized for the betterment of all humankind. Space exploration has helped in various fields like navigation, communication, weather forecasting, etc. Space scientists have also made developed advanced technologies to detect potential hazardous objects that are approaching Earth and roaming in our solar system. Also, due to the advancements in space technologies that first image of a Blackhole was also captured.

International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

 On 6^th April, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) is observed annually. This day is celebrated to highlight the importance of sports in society.

Overview:

• This day recognizes the positive impact due to sports on the harmony and peace of various communities across the globe.
• Sports help in promoting social ties, peace, and sustainable development across the planet.

History of this day

In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had declared that the 6^th of April is to be celebrated as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. April 6^th was selected as on this day in 1896 the first-ever Modern Olympics took place in Athens. Since 2014, this day has been annually observed across the planet.

Significance of this day

In 2015, sports were included in the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations after it was considered to play a crucial role in sustainable development. Hence, this day acts as a platform for nations to turn their focus to the development of this sector. The nations are encouraged to invest in the development of sports and sporting infrastructures, awareness among the masses, and quality education.

The theme for this year

‘Securing a Sustainable and Peaceful Future for All: The Contribution of Sport’ is the theme for this year’s the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The theme highlights the importance of sport in creating a better future for humans. The focus of this year’s theme is on lowering Greenhouse Gas emissions and climate change.

World Autism Awareness Day

 Annually, on 2^nd April, World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated across the world to spread awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the social interaction and communication skills of a person.

Overview

• ASD symptoms can be detected before a child turns three years old.
• This disorder is generally caused by biological differences in brain development and genetics.
• This disorder can be dealt with if the patient(s) seek medical help as quickly as they can.

Aim of this day

The aim of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is to garner attention towards the obstacles that are faced every day by people with autism. Autism is a major global health issue and it needs to gain more understanding from people across the globe. This day looks to teach people about Autism Spectrum Disorder.

World Autism Awareness Day 2022 theme

‘Inclusion in the Workplace’ is the theme for this year’s World Autism Awareness Day. A discussion with individuals on the autism spectrum will be held. They will be talking about the difficulties they have faced in the workplace. Also, due to the pandemic, the education of many autistic students has been disrupted. Hence focus will also be given to their education under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) which concentrates on promoting lifelong learning opportunities and assures quality education for all. This year’s theme promotes the fact that autistic people also have the right to receive quality education like any normal person.

World Autism Awareness Day Past Years Themes

World Autism Awareness Day focussed on a specific theme determined by the United Nations. The themes for past few years are as follows:

• 2012: “Launch of Official UN “Awareness Raising” Stamp”
• 2013: “Celebrating the ability within the disability of autism”
• 2014: “Opening Doors to Inclusive Education”
• 2015: “Employment: The Autism Advantage”
• 2016: “Autism and the 2030 Agenda: Inclusion and Neurodiversity”
• 2017: “Toward Autonomy and Self-Determination”
• 2018: “Empowering Women and Girls with Autism”
• 2019: “Assistive Technologies, Active Participation”
• 2020: “The Transition to Adulthood”
• 2021: “Inclusion in the Workplace”
• 2022: “Inclusive Quality Education for All”

History of this day

The United Nations have always facilitated the well-being and rights of all persons with all forms of disabilities. In early 2008, the United Nations General Assembly was announced 2^nd April as World Autism Awareness Day. The resolution was enacted and accepted in the year 2007 and since then this day has been observed annually on 2^nd April. World Autism Day is one of the seven-official health-specific days of the UN.

National Tourism Day

 Every year the National Tourism Day is celebrated on January 25. The day is celebrated to create awareness about the growth aspects of tourism sector. Also, the day aims to spread the impact of tourism sector on the economic development of the country.

Theme of National Tourism Day, 2022

Rural and Community centric tourism

History

The tourism sector was first introduced in India in 1948. A tourism committee was formed in 1948. Later in 1958, a separate tourism department was created under the Ministry of Tourism and Communication.

What is National Tourism?

It includes activities of domestic tourism and outbound tourism. Domestic tourism includes activities of the residents of the country and the also the activities of the foreign tourists within India. Outbound tourism includes activities of residents of the country in foreign soil.

Who is Father of Tourism?

Thomas Cook. He was an English innovator who founded Thomas Cook and Son, a world famous travel agency. He is the inventor of modern tourism.

State – wise Tourism in India

Maharashtra has the highest number of tourists visiting the state. More than five lakh tourists visit the state annually. After Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu ranks second in tourism with more than four lakh tourists visiting the state. After these two states, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi are at third and fourth places respectively. UP has more than three lakh tourists visiting the state and Delhi has more than two lakh visitors.

Tourism in India

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism sector in India generated 220 billion USD of revenue annually. Also, the tourism sector contributes to 9.2% of the total GDP of the country. The sector contributes 8.1% of employment. The medical tourism of India is 3 billion USD and is expected to grow more.

Interesting Facts about tourist spots in India

• There are 40 UNESCO Heritage sites in India. The last UNESCO heritage site added was the Dholavira. Dholavira is a Harappan city.
• Sikkim is the organic state of India. The state has 47.3% of its land area under forest cover. It has banned pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, single use plastics and packaged drinking water bottles.
• Highest Rail Bridge: Chenab bridge. It is 1,315 metres and is 35 metres higher than the Eiffel tower.
• The Sentinelese people have isolated themselves from the rest of the world. They live in Sentinel island.
• Kangra fort in Himachal Pradesh is the oldest fort in the country.

Why the world celebrates ‘International Education Day’ on January 24

 

This year, the celebration will take place at the UN Headquarters in New York, Expo 2022 in Dubai, Harvard University Graduate School of Education, and Global Minnesota. 

The International Day of Education is annually celebrated on January 24. This year marks the fourth year of celebration, with the theme ‘Changing Course, Transforming Education’.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in December, 2018 proclaimed the celebration of this day to mark the importance of education in ensuring peace and development. The resolution to mark this International Day of Education was authored by 59 member states. This demonstrated the unwavering political will to support transformative actions for inclusive, equitable and quality education for all. This year, the celebration will take place at the UN Headquarters in New York, Expo 2022 in Dubai, Harvard University Graduate School of Education, and Global Minnesota. 

Education is a tool that can be employed to ensure growth and progress, but the access to this tool is deeply unequal. The Covid-19 pandemic heightened this divide. Education suffered a huge gap during the pandemic due to the closure of schools, universities, and other educational institutions and required a shift to the online mode. 

“Transforming the future requires an urgent rebalancing of our relationships with each other, with nature as well as with technology that permeates our lives, bearing breakthrough opportunities while raising serious concerns for equity, inclusion and democratic participation”, read the UNESCO’s Futures of Education Report .

Meanwhile, India has its own National Education day celebrated on November 11 to mark the birth anniversary of India’s first Education Minister Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Azad strongly advocated for the education of women.  

Source: Indian Express, 24/01/22

National Startup Day

 Every year the National Startup Day is celebrated on January 16. PM Modi has announced that Startups are the backbone of India. This is why it is essential to celebrate the day. Also India is celebrating Startup India Innovation Week between January 10, 2022 and January 16, 2022. The week celebrations are organized by Department of Promotion Industry and Industrial Trade. This is the first time, India is celebrating the day.

National Startup Day, 2022

In 2022, the National Startup Day is celebrated on six themes. They are sustainable development, technology of future, from local to global, building champions in manufacturing, nudging the DNA and growing from roots.

Special Features

The National Startup Day, 2022 focused on data collection mechanism in agriculture, healthcare through use of technology, creating agricultural business hubs, tackling issues related to mental health, improving health care related technologies, space sector and job identification.

Growth in Startup

In 2013, only four thousand patents were approved. However, in 2020-21, more than 28,000 patents have been registered. In 2013-14, 70,000 trademarks were registered. However, in 2020-21 more than 2.5 lakh trademarks were registered.

India reached 46^th spot in Global Innovation Index from 81^st rank.

Areas where Startups play major role in the country

Defence manufacturing, EV charging, infrastructure, chip manufacturing and drone sector. The new drone policy of Indian Government focuses on defence startups. The Indian Army, Navy and Air Force have placed five hundred crore rupees worth order to the drone startups.

Role of Government of India

The Government of India had introduced Standup India, Startup India and Make in India to encourage the young and new entrepreneurs. The Government of India solved the issues around Angel Tax. Also, the tax procedures have been simplified. GoI now allows self-certification and has removed more than 25,000 compliances.

Challenges faced by Startups in India

Lack of availability of financial resources. Lack of access to supporting infrastructure. Regulations related to intellectual property rights, labour laws and dispute resolution.

National Youth Day 2022

 National Youth Day, also known as Yuva Diwas, is celebrated on 12 January every year in India. The day marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, one of the most popular philosophers and thinkers of India, and is celebrated as the Yuva Diwas to recognise his contributions to the Indian society. This is primarily because he was one of the most prominent leaders of his time to influence the youth of India.

This day is celebrated to honour Swami Vivekananda, as well as encourage the youth to work hard and contribute to the overall development of their country.

National Youth Day 2022: History

The Government of India declared Swami Vivekananda’s birthday as the National Youth Day of India in 1985. This was primarily done to motivate the youth of India to follow in the footsteps of Swami Vivekananda and ultimately lead to the prosperity of the nation.

Born in 1863, it is amazing how Swami Vivekananda serves as a consistent inspiration to lakhs of Indian youths even today.

In fact, one of the strongest messages he gave to the youth was, "What I want is muscles of iron and nerves of steel, inside which dwells a mind of the same material as that of which the thunderbolt is made."

National Youth Day: Significance

Different states in India organise multiple events, each different from the other to celebrate this day. For example, Uttar Pradesh witnesses a two-day event called 'Mission Bhartiyam' and 'Basti Yuvo Mahotsav', to promote and motivate the youth of India.

In addition to this, a National Youth Festival is also organised in India wherein people from all over the country participate in various cultural and educational activities to promote unity and harmony in the country.

Besides this, the Ramakrishna Math and Mission also celebrates the National Youth Day on a large scale. Ardent followers of Swami Vivekananda meditate, organise devotional programs, and offer evening prayers, amongst many other activies.

Also, the 'The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda', the comprehensive book that contains all the teachings of Swami Vivekananda is also recited in parts and serves as an inspiration for youths to recognise their potential and work hard.

The theme for National Youth Day 2022 is “It's all in the mind,” a key teaching of Swami Vivekananda. He was known for preaching religious tolerance and combining Indian spirituality with western material progress

Veer Baal Diwas

 On January 9, 2022, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that December 26 would be celebrated as “Veer Baal Diwas”. The day will be celebrated to pay tribute to Sahibzades, that is, the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh.

Why December 26?

It was on the same day Sahibzada Fateh Singh and Sahibzada Zorawar Singh attained martyrdom. They were sealed alive in wall. They preferred death rather than following a non – dharmic path. The four Sahibzades never bowed to injustice. They wanted to create a harmonious world.

Sahibzades

Sahibzade in Punjabi means sons. The term is usually used to refer to the four sons of the Sikh guru Guru Gobind Singh. He was the tenth Guru of the Sikhs. His birth anniversary is celebrated on January 9 every year. His four sons were Sahibzada Baba Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh.

Chotta Sahibzade

The younger pair of the sons were called the Chotta Sahibzade. They were martyred by the Mughals together. Sahibzada Fateh Singh was less than six years old. Shahibzada Zorawar Singh was eight years old. They were bricked alive by the Mughals. Even at such tender age they refused to bow down to the Mughals. The Gurudwara Fatehgarh Sahib marks the execution of the Sahibzades. It is located in Sirhind.

Vaada Sahibzade and Zafarnamah

The older sons of Guru Gobind Singh are called Vaada Sahibzade. Baba Arjit Singh and Jujhar Singh died in the second Battle of Chamkaur. They died in the age of 18 and 14 respectively. The battle was fought between the Khalsa army led by Guru Gobind Singh and the Mughal Army on the order of Aurangazeb. The battle was fought in December 1704. Guru Gobind Singh refers to the battle as Zafarnamah.

Sangat

The Sahibzades died between December 21 and December 26. Every year, the Sikhs observe Sangat during this period. Sangat in Punjabi means company or association. During this time, the Sikhs chant hymns and perform kirtans.

Human Rights Day 2021

 The United Nations General Assembly observes Human Rights Day on December 10, every year.

Key Points

• The day is observed to raise awareness regarding people’s social, cultural and physical rights as well as to ensure the welfare people across the world.
• The day encourages nations to create equal opportunities for everyone.
• It also addresses the issues of exclusion, inequality, and discrimination.

Background

United Nations General Assembly had adopted the Universal Declaration of the Human Rights in 1948. The Allies of World War II, also known as the United Nations, adopted four freedoms viz., freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom from fear and freedom from want. They created the Charter of United Nations on the basis of faith in fundamental human rights. Thus, Universal Declaration of Human Rights is significant and forms one of the bases of the United Nations.

Significance of the day

The Human Rights Day signifies the absolute rights to which all humans are entitled, irrespective of their race, religion, colour, language, sex, political or other opinions, poverty, national or social origin, birth or another status. Equality and non-discrimination are at the heart of human rights. Human Rights Day has become more significant in the aftermath of covid-19, as it has deepened poverty and raised inequality, discrimination & other gaps in human rights protection.

Theme of the day

The Human Rights Day in year 2021 was observed under the theme- “Equality, reducing inequalities, advancing human rights.”

UN Human Rights Council

The Human Rights Council consists of 47 elected United Nations Member States. These states are empowered to prevent inequality, protect the most vulnerable, abuses & discrimination, and punish the perpetrators of human rights violations. Council was established by the United Nations General Assembly on March 15, 2006 for replacing the United Nations Commission on Human Rights. It has been strongly criticized for including member countries which engage in human rights abuses.

Mahaparinirvana Divas: December 6

 The death anniversary of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, which falls on December 6, is dubbed as Mahaparinirvana Divas. On this day each year, millions of people throng to Dr Ambedkar’s Samadhi in Mumbai, which is called Chaitya bhoomi to pay respect to the father of Indian Constitution. This year, due to the on-going pandemic, the Maharashtra government has urged people to refrain from visiting this site and observe the day staying home.

What is Mahaparinirvan?

Mahaparinirvan is one of the major goals of Buddhism. It means ‘’Nirvana after death”. Parinirvan is written as Parinibbana in Pali. Pali language is native to Indian continent. The Buddhist text “Mahaparinibbana Sutta” considers the death of Lord Buddha at the age of 80 as the original Mahaparinirvan.

Why is Death anniversary of Dr Ambedkar celebrated on Mahaparinirvana Divas?

Dr Ambedkar died in a few days after completing his work “The Buddha and his Dhamma”. Also, he converted to Buddhism after studying the religion for years together. He converted to Buddhism on October 14, 1956 in Nagpur along with five lakh supporters. These supporters considered Dr Ambedkar as their Buddhist leader. Also, he was considered as a Buddhist guru for his contributions to the eradication of untouchability. Thus, Ambedkar’s death anniversary is marked as Mahaparinirvan Divas.

About Dr B R Ambedkar

Ambedkar is called the father of constitution of India. He was the first minister of law and Justice of independent India and is considered as the chief architect of the Constitution of India. He was an Indian economist, jurist, social reformer and politician. He inspired several dalit Buddhist movements and fought against social discrimination towards untouchables. He on doctor it’s in Economics from University of London and Columbia University.

In 1956, he converted to Buddhism and initiated mass conversions of the lips. He was awarded with the India’s highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna in 1990.

National Pollution Control Day: December 2

 Every year, India marks the National Pollution Control Day on December 2. The day is observed in the memory of the people who lost their lives in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. The National Pollution Control Day is celebrated in India to make the citizens aware of laws that exist in India that help to contain pollution.

Objectives of National Pollution Control Day

• To create awareness in increasing air pollution
• To educate people on controlling and managing industrial disasters.
• To make everyone aware of pollution control acts in the country
• To create awareness on ways to reduce the level of pollution
• To prevent industrial pollution that is caused by human negligence

Bhopal gas tragedy

The Bhopal gas tragedy occurred on December 2nd and 3rd, 1984. During the accident poisonous chemical methyl isocyanate leaked from a pesticide plant union carbide India Limited in Bhopal. This exposed more than 500 thousand people to the poisonous gas. Around 2259 people died immediately. Later the Government of India announced that the tragedy killed around 25,000 people. It was considered as the biggest industrial disaster in the world.

Air Pollution in India

India is home to 21 out of 30 polluted cities in the world. According to World Health Organization, around 140 million people in the country breath air that is ten times above the safe limit set by WHO.

Theme of National Pollution Control Day, 2021

• To create awareness about the importance of pollution control
• To educate people on how to prevent pollution

What are the laws of India that prevent and control pollution in the country?

The Government of India launched several rules and act to control and prevent pollution in India. They are as follows

• Environment impact assessment, 2006
• Maharashtra biodegradable garbage control ordinance, 2006
• Batteries management and handling rules, 2001
• Municipal solid waste management and handling rules, 2000
• Noise pollution regulation and control rules, 2000
• Ozone depleting substances regulation rules, 2000
• Recycled plastics manufacture and usage rules, 1999
• Biomedical waste management and handling rules, 1998
• Chemical accidents emergency, preparedness, planning and response rules, 1996
• National environment tribunal act, 1995
• Manufacture, import, storage, export and storage of hazardous micro organisms genetically engineered organisms or cells rules, 1989
• Hazardous waste management and handling rules, 1989
• Manufacture, import and storage of hazardous chemical rules, 1989
• Environment protection act, 1986
• Environment protection rules, 1986
• Air prevention and control of pollution act, 1981
• Water prevention and control of pollution act, 1977

World AIDS Day: December 1

 Every year the World AIDS Day is celebrated on December 1. The day is being celebrated since 1988. It is celebrated to create awareness against the spread of HIV infection. It is one of the 11 official Global Public Health campaigns of World Health Organisation. The Other 10 campaigns are as follows

• World Blood Donor Day
• World Health Day
• World Immunization Week
• World No Tobacco Day
• World Tuberculosis Day
• World Malaria day
• World antimicrobial awareness week
• World Hepatitis Day
• World Patient Safety Day
• World Chagas Disease Day

Theme of World AIDS Day

This year the World AIDS Day is celebrated under the following theme

Ending Inequalities

AIDS awareness week

Every year the last week of November is celebrated as AIDS awareness week. The first AIDS Awareness Week was celebrated in 1984 in San Francisco.

AIDS in India

According to the National AIDS Control Organisation, around 2.14 million people live with AIDS in India as of 2017. India is home to the third largest population of persons with AIDS in the world after South Africa and Nigeria as of 2018. However, the prevalence rate of AIDS in India is lesser than that of many other countries. In 2016, the prevalence rate of AIDS was at 0.3% in India. This was the 80th highest in the world.

India fights the disease through antiretroviral drugs and education programmes.

National AIDS Control Organisation

It was established in 1992 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It takes leadership in controlling AIDS in India. It conducts estimates of the disease once in every 2 years along with National Institute of Medical statistics and Indian Council of Medical Research. The first such Estimation in India was done in 1998 and the last was done in 2017.

NACO has increased its number of centres providing free antiretroviral treatment from 54 to 91. The number of AIDS patients in the country have increased largely in 2020 due to COVID-19. The government programmes implemented to reduce AIDS in the country have come to halt due to COVID-19 crisis.