24 October - Disarmament Week

 

Disarmament Week is an annual event observed from October 24th to October 30th each year. It is dedicated to promoting awareness and advocacy for disarmament, the reduction or elimination of weapons, and the pursuit of global peace and security. Disarmament Week was established by the United Nations (UN) to coincide with the anniversary of the founding of the UN on October 24, 1945.

The primary objectives of Disarmament Week are as follows:

1. Raise Awareness: The week serves as a platform to educate people about the importance of disarmament in preventing armed conflicts and the devastating impact of the arms race on global peace and stability.

2. Advocate for Disarmament: It encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to advocate for arms control measures, non-proliferation agreements, and disarmament initiatives.

3. Promote Peace: Disarmament is closely tied to the pursuit of peace and security. The week promotes peaceful coexistence and encourages the peaceful resolution of conflicts.

4. Highlight the Role of the United Nations: As the international organization responsible for promoting global peace and security, the UN plays a central role in disarmament efforts. Disarmament Week emphasizes the UN's role in these important endeavors.

5. Engage in Educational Activities: Various events, seminars, workshops, and educational programs are organized during Disarmament Week to engage communities, students, and the general public in discussions about disarmament and its significance.

6. Support Arms Control Treaties: The week often calls attention to specific arms control agreements and encourages countries to sign and adhere to these treaties. Prominent examples include the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT).

Disarmament Week is an opportunity for governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals to work together in the pursuit of a world free from the threat of excessive and dangerous weaponry. It emphasizes the need for collective global efforts to reduce arms and promote peace, a goal that remains essential in a world marked by ongoing conflicts and tensions.

24 October - Rafi Ahmed Kidwai death anniversary

 

Rafi Ahmed Kidwai (February 18, 1894 – October  24 ,1954) was a politician, an Indian independence activist and a socialist. He hailed from Barabanki District of Uttar Pradesh, in north India

Kidwai died in Delhi on 24 October 1954. He had heart failure after experiencing an attack of asthma while delivering a speech. His burial site, at his home village, was covered by a Mughal-style mausoleum.

24 October - R.K. Laxman birth anniversary

 

Rasipuram Krishnaswami Laxman, commonly known as R.K. Laxman, was one of India's most renowned and beloved cartoonists and humorists. He was born on 24 October 1921, in Mysore, India, and he passed away on 26 January 2015. R.K. Laxman is best known for his iconic and satirical cartoons that often depicted the socio-political and cultural landscape of India.

Key highlights about R.K. Laxman's life and work include:

1. Common Man: Laxman's most famous creation was the "Common Man," a character featured in his cartoons that represented the ordinary Indian citizen. The Common Man observed and commented on the various issues and challenges faced by the people of India.

2. The Times of India: For over five decades, Laxman worked as a cartoonist for "The Times of India," one of India's leading English-language newspapers. His daily cartoon strip, "You Said It," was immensely popular and enjoyed a wide readership.

3. Political and Social Satire: Laxman's cartoons were known for their sharp wit and humor, which often critiqued and commented on the political and social issues of the day. He had a unique ability to use humor to shed light on serious matters.

4. Awards and Recognition: Throughout his career, Laxman received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to Indian journalism and art. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, two of India's highest civilian awards.

5. Books: Laxman was also a prolific author, writing several books that captured his experiences and observations, including "The Distorted Mirror" and "The Tunnel of Time."

6. Legacy: R.K. Laxman's work and the character of the Common Man continue to have a lasting impact on Indian journalism, art, and public discourse. He is remembered as an artist who used humor to hold a mirror to society.

R.K. Laxman's cartoons and the character of the Common Man remain iconic in Indian culture and have contributed significantly to the development of political and social satire in the country. His work has left a lasting imprint on the way India views its political and social issues.

24 October - Bahadur Shah Zafar birth anniversary

 

Bahadur Shah Zafar II, whose birth name was Mirza Abu Zafar Siraj-ud-din Muhammad, was the last Mughal emperor of India. He was born on October 24, 1775, in Delhi, and he played a significant role in the history of India during a tumultuous period of British colonial rule. Here are some key points about Bahadur Shah Zafar:

1. Mughal Emperor: Bahadur Shah Zafar ascended to the Mughal throne in 1837 after the death of his father, Akbar Shah II. His reign was largely symbolic, as the British East India Company had already taken control of most of India.

2. The Indian Rebellion of 1857: Bahadur Shah Zafar's name is most prominently associated with the Indian Rebellion of 1857, also known as the Indian Sepoy Mutiny or the First War of Independence. During this uprising, Indian soldiers, known as sepoys, rebelled against British rule. Zafar was seen as a figurehead and became a rallying point for the rebels, who declared him the emperor of India.

3. Role in the Rebellion: Zafar initially hesitated to support the rebellion but eventually issued a royal proclamation supporting the uprising. He was declared the leader of the rebellion and his nominal authority was restored as the "Emperor of India." However, the rebellion was ultimately suppressed by the British.

4. Exile and Trial: After the failure of the rebellion, Bahadur Shah Zafar was captured by the British. He was put on trial, found guilty of sedition, and exiled to Rangoon, British Burma (present-day Yangon, Myanmar), along with some family members.

5. Death: Bahadur Shah Zafar spent the last years of his life in exile, far from his homeland. He died on  07 November 1862, in Rangoon. His death marked the end of the Mughal Empire.

6. Poet: Bahadur Shah Zafar was also a noted Urdu poet. He wrote poetry under the pen name "Zafar," and his ghazals and other poetic works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and themes of love, loss, and nostalgia.

Bahadur Shah Zafar's life is a symbol of the decline and fall of the Mughal Empire in India and the onset of British colonial rule. He is remembered as a tragic figure who became a reluctant symbol of resistance during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, which ultimately led to the end of the Mughal dynasty and the firm establishment of British dominion in India.

24 October - Manna Dey death anniversary

 

Manna Dey, whose birth name was Prabodh Chandra Dey, was a legendary Indian playback singer renowned for his versatile and melodious singing. He was born on May 1, 1919, in Kolkata, India, and he passed away on October 24, 2013. Here's a brief note about his life and career:

Manna Dey was one of the most celebrated playback singers in the history of Indian music. He had a remarkable singing career that spanned several decades and included singing in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, and many others. His rich and melodious voice allowed him to master a wide range of musical genres, from classical and semi-classical to folk and popular music.

Some key highlights of Manna Dey's career include:

1. Versatile Singing: Manna Dey was known for his remarkable versatility. He could sing both classical and popular music with equal ease. He was particularly renowned for his classical and semi-classical renditions.

2. Bollywood: He was a prominent playback singer for the Indian film industry, particularly Bollywood. He lent his voice to numerous iconic songs and was known for his ability to adapt to various styles and moods, making him a favorite of music directors and composers.

3. Collaborations: Manna Dey collaborated with many music directors, including R.D. Burman, S.D. Burman, and Salil Chowdhury. Some of his most famous songs were composed by these maestros.

4. Awards and Honors: He received numerous accolades during his career, including the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer and the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors.

Manna Dey's contribution to Indian music is immeasurable, and his melodious voice continues to resonate with music enthusiasts around the world. He left behind a rich legacy of timeless songs that are cherished by generations of music lovers.

 

24 October - World Polio Day

 

World Polio Day is observed on October 24th each year and is dedicated to raising awareness about the global efforts to eradicate polio, a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in the fight against polio and to emphasize the importance of continued efforts to eliminate the disease.

World Polio Day activities include:

1. Raising Awareness: The day is used to inform people about the importance of polio vaccination, the history of polio eradication efforts, and the remaining challenges.

2. Fundraising: Many organizations and individuals use this day to raise funds for polio eradication initiatives. Donations often go to organizations like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), which includes partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Rotary International, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UNICEF, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

3. Educational Events: Schools, universities, and health organizations may hold events and seminars to educate people about polio and vaccination campaigns.

4. Social Media Campaigns: Many people and organizations use social media to spread information about polio and the importance of vaccination.

5. Community Engagement: Some communities organize local events, walks, or vaccination campaigns to support the global fight against polio.

The global campaign to eradicate polio has made significant progress over the years, with a dramatic reduction in the number of polio cases. However, it remains a serious public health concern in some parts of the world. World Polio Day serves as a reminder that, with continued efforts and funding, it is possible to rid the world of this debilitating disease.

24 October - World Development Information Day

 

World Development Information Day is observed on October 24th each year. This day was established by the United Nations (UN) to highlight the significance of information and communication technologies in development efforts and to promote the use of technology for social and economic advancement worldwide.

World Development Information Day emphasizes the role of information and communication in the development process and how it can help address global issues, including poverty, inequality, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. It is an occasion to recognize the importance of accessible and reliable information for making informed decisions, driving development initiatives, and achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

On this day, various organizations, governments, and institutions may host events, seminars, workshops, and conferences to discuss the role of information and communication technologies in development. These events often focus on the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technology, access to information, and the use of data to address developmental issues.

The date of World Development Information Day coincides with the anniversary of the adoption of the International Development Strategy for the Second Development Decade by the UN General Assembly in 1970. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that information and data play in the development of societies and economies around the world.

24 October - National Kangaroo Awareness Day Australia

 

National Kangaroo Awareness Day is a day dedicated to raising awareness about kangaroos and their conservation. Kangaroos are iconic marsupials native to Australia, and they are a unique and important part of the country's wildlife.

This awareness day encourages people to learn about kangaroos, their habitat, behavior, and the conservation challenges they face. It also aims to promote responsible and ethical interactions with kangaroos and their environment. Issues related to kangaroo conservation may include habitat loss, wildlife protection laws, and the welfare of kangaroos in captivity.

National Kangaroo Awareness Day may involve educational programs, events, and initiatives aimed at informing the public about the importance of preserving kangaroo populations and their ecosystems. It serves as an opportunity to highlight the need for conservation efforts and the coexistence of humans and these remarkable marsupials. The specific date for this awareness day can vary, but it is generally celebrated to encourage greater understanding and appreciation of kangaroos and their role in Australia's natural heritage.

 

24 October - Independence Day Zambia

 

Independence Day in Zambia is celebrated on October 24th each year. This day marks the anniversary of Zambia's independence from British colonial rule in 1964. On October 24, 1964, Zambia officially gained its independence, becoming a sovereign nation.

Before gaining independence, Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia and was a British protectorate. The struggle for independence was led by Kenneth Kaunda, who later became the first President of Zambia. Independence Day is a significant national holiday in Zambia and is celebrated with various events and festivities, including parades, cultural performances, and speeches by political leaders.

It is a day of national pride and reflection on the country's history and progress since gaining independence. Zambians take this opportunity to celebrate their nation's sovereignty and the ideals of freedom and self-determination. The day is often marked with patriotic displays of the Zambian flag, as well as cultural activities that showcase the country's rich heritage.

24 October - United Nations Day

 

United Nations Day is observed on October 24th each year to commemorate the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations (UN) in 1945. This day is an opportunity to celebrate the work of the United Nations in promoting peace, security, human rights, and development around the world.

The United Nations was founded in the aftermath of World War II with the aim of preventing future conflicts, fostering cooperation among nations, and addressing global issues. The UN Charter, which established the organization, was signed on October 24, 1945, by 51 member countries.

United Nations Day is marked by events and activities in various countries that highlight the UN's efforts in areas such as humanitarian assistance, environmental protection, and peacekeeping. It also serves as a day for promoting the principles of the UN, such as international cooperation, diplomacy, and the pursuit of a better and more peaceful world.

The theme for United Nations Day can vary from year to year and often reflects current global challenges and priorities. It is a day for nations and individuals to reaffirm their commitment to the United Nations and its mission to create a more just, peaceful, and prosperous world.