21 May - FIFA founded in Paris in 1904

 

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was founded on May 21, 1904. The organization was established in Paris, France, during a meeting held at the headquarters of the Union des Sociétés Françaises de Sports Athlétiques (USFSA). The founding members included representatives from France, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. From its inception, FIFA aimed to govern and promote the sport of football (soccer) on an international level. Over the years, FIFA has grown into the global governing body for football, organizing international tournaments, setting rules and regulations, and overseeing the development and administration of the sport worldwide.

21 May - Rajiv Gandhi death anniversary

 

Rajiv Gandhi, born on August 20, 1944, was an Indian politician who served as the 6th Prime Minister of India. He belonged to the Indian National Congress party and held office from 1984 to 1989. He was the youngest person to become Prime Minister of India, assuming the position after the assassination of his mother, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Rajiv Gandhi came from a political family. His grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, was the first Prime Minister of India, and his mother, Indira Gandhi, also served as Prime Minister. Rajiv Gandhi initially had a career as a pilot but entered politics after the death of his younger brother, Sanjay Gandhi.

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi focused on various issues, including modernization, technology, and education. He aimed to transform India into a more technologically advanced and globally connected nation. His government introduced several initiatives, such as computerization in government offices, telecommunication reforms, and educational reforms.

However, his time in office was also marked by controversies and challenges. The Bofors scandal, involving alleged corruption in defense deals, tarnished his government's image. Additionally, his handling of the Sri Lankan Civil War and the subsequent assassination of former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranasinghe Premadasa drew criticism.

Tragically, Rajiv Gandhi's life was cut short when he was assassinated on May 21, 1991, during an election rally in Tamil Nadu by a suicide bomber belonging to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a Sri Lankan separatist group.

Despite the controversies and his untimely death, Rajiv Gandhi's contributions to Indian politics, technology, and education are recognized. He played a significant role in shaping the direction of India during his tenure as Prime Minister.

 

21 May - Günter Blobel birth anniversary

 

 Günter Blobel was a German-born American biologist and Nobel laureate. He was born on May 21, 1936, in Waltersdorf, Germany, and passed away on February 18, 2018, in New York, United States.

Blobel was renowned for his groundbreaking research on cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in protein targeting and trafficking within cells. His work focused on understanding how proteins are directed to specific locations within cells, which is essential for their proper functioning. He identified the signal hypothesis, which proposed that proteins possess specific targeting signals that guide them to their correct cellular destinations.

Blobel's research had significant implications in various fields, including cell biology, biochemistry, and medicine. His discoveries helped to unravel the fundamental processes involved in protein synthesis, secretion, and localization within cells, contributing to our understanding of various diseases and cellular functions.

In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, Günter Blobel was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1999. He was honored for his discoveries concerning the regulation of protein trafficking, which have paved the way for numerous advancements in cell biology and biomedical research.

Günter Blobel's scientific achievements have left a lasting impact on our understanding of cellular processes and have provided critical insights into the mechanisms underlying human health and disease.

21 May - Jane Addams death anniversary

 

Jane Addams was a prominent American social reformer, pacifist, and feminist. She was born on September 6, 1860, in Cedarville, Illinois, and passed away on May 21, 1935. Addams is best known for her pioneering work in the field of social work and her efforts to promote social justice and peace.

Addams co-founded Hull House, a settlement house located in Chicago, in 1889. Hull House aimed to address the needs of immigrant communities and provide various social services, including education, healthcare, and recreational activities. It became a model for other settlement houses across the United States.

As a committed social activist, Addams was involved in numerous social and political causes. She advocated for women's suffrage, labor rights, and social reform. She was a prominent leader in the peace movement and played a significant role in the international peace movement during World War I and its aftermath. Addams was a co-founder of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom.

For her tireless work and commitment to social reform, Jane Addams was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1931, becoming the first American woman to receive this honor. She left a lasting impact on the fields of social work, feminism, and peace activism, and her legacy continues to inspire social justice advocates today.

21 May - National Anti-Terrorism Day

 

National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed in India on May 21st every year. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting terrorism and promoting peace and harmony in the country. This day commemorates the death anniversary of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, who was assassinated on May 21, 1991, by a terrorist act.

National Anti-Terrorism Day aims to raise awareness about the destructive effects of terrorism on society and to promote unity and resilience against acts of terror. It encourages people to actively participate in the fight against terrorism by spreading awareness, reporting suspicious activities, and cooperating with law enforcement agencies.

On this day, various events and activities take place across the country. These may include seminars, discussions, lectures, public rallies, and campaigns against terrorism. The focus is on educating people about the dangers of terrorism, promoting peace, and fostering a sense of national unity and security.

The observance of National Anti-Terrorism Day in India underscores the country's commitment to combating terrorism and upholding the values of peace, harmony, and national security.

21 May - World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

 

The World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development is observed annually on May 21st. Established by the United Nations in 2002, this day aims to promote cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue, and understanding among people from different backgrounds.

Cultural diversity refers to the wide range of cultures, traditions, and languages that exist in the world. It is seen as a valuable asset and an essential component of human development and societal progress. The World Day for Cultural Diversity aims to raise awareness about the importance of cultural diversity and encourage dialogue and cooperation among individuals and communities.

On this day, various activities and initiatives are organized worldwide to celebrate cultural diversity and promote dialogue. These activities may include cultural exhibitions, art performances, film screenings, discussions, workshops, and educational programs. The goal is to foster mutual respect, appreciation, and understanding of different cultures, as well as to recognize the role that cultural diversity plays in sustainable development.

By promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue, this observance seeks to build bridges between communities, reduce discrimination, and create inclusive societies that value and embrace the richness of cultural differences.

21 May - International Tea Day

 

International Tea Day is observed annually on May 21st. It was established by the United Nations in 2019 to recognize and promote the cultural, economic, and health benefits of tea.

Tea has been enjoyed for centuries and is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. It has cultural significance in many countries and is known for its calming and refreshing properties. International Tea Day aims to highlight the importance of tea in promoting sustainable agriculture, rural development, and supporting small-scale tea growers and workers.

On this day, various events and activities are organized worldwide to celebrate tea and its global impact. These may include tea tasting sessions, tea ceremonies, seminars on the health benefits of tea, cultural performances, and exhibitions showcasing different tea varieties and traditions.

International Tea Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the tea industry's challenges, such as fair trade practices, labor rights, and environmental sustainability. It also encourages individuals to explore and appreciate the diverse flavors and cultural aspects of tea from different regions around the world.

20 May - World Bee Day

 

World Bee Day is an international observance held on May 20th each year. It was designated by the United Nations to raise awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators for our ecosystems, food production, and biodiversity. The day aims to highlight the critical role bees play in pollinating crops and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

World Bee Day was first celebrated on May 20th, 2018, to commemorate the birthday of Anton Janša, a pioneer in modern beekeeping. On this day, various events and activities take place globally to promote bee conservation, sustainable beekeeping practices, and the protection of pollinators' habitats. These activities often include educational programs, workshops, conferences, exhibitions, and planting initiatives to create bee-friendly environments.

The observance of World Bee Day serves as a reminder of the need to protect bees and pollinators to ensure food security and preserve the balance of nature.

20 May - New UPU Hedquarters commerative stamp issued in 1970

 

A commemorative postage stamp issued on 20 May. 1970 on the New Universal Postal (UPU) Headquarters located in Bern , Switzerland.

UPU, established by the Treaty of Bern of 1874, is a specialized agency of the United Nations  that coordinates postal policies among member nations, in addition to the worldwide postal system. The UPU contains four bodies consisting of the Congress, the Council of Administration, the Postal Operations Council and the International Bureau . It also oversees the Telematics and Express Mail Service cooperatives. Each member agrees to the same terms for conducting international postal duties. The UPU's headquarters are located in Bern, Switzerland.

India had taken active interest in the work of this Union as a member of the two organs, namely, the Executive council and the Management council of the consultative committee for the Postal Studies , India has contributed to the work of the union.The design of the stamp is horizontal and depicts a picture of the new Building of Headquarters of the UPU at Berne (Switzerland) along with the symbol of the U.P.U.

20 May - Malhar Rao Holkar death anniversary

Malhar Rao Holkar (16 March 1694 – 20 May 1766), a noble subedar of the Maratha Empire, in present-day India. He helped in the spread of the Maratha rule to northern states and was given the estate of Indore to rule by the Peshwas, during the reign of the Maratha Emperor Shahu I. He died on 20 May 1766 at the age of 73.