“IMPORTANT DAY”

Human Rights Day 2023

The year 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of a monumental global commitment—the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948, this transformative document remains a beacon of hope, enshrining the inalienable rights that every individual is entitled to, irrespective of diverse factors. 10 December 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the world’s most groundbreaking global pledges: the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

2023 Theme: Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All:

The chosen theme for the 2023 celebrations is “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All.” Over the decades since the UDHR’s adoption, human rights have gained increasing recognition and protection worldwide. The declaration has served as the cornerstone for an expanding human rights protection system, extending its reach to vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and migrants.

International Anti-Corruption Day 2023

International Anti-Corruption Day is celebrated worldwide on December 9 each year. In 2023, this special day falls on a Saturday. The aim of this day is to draw attention to the harmful impact of corruption on society and to encourage collective efforts to combat this global issue.

The theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2023 is ‘UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World Against Corruption.’ This theme emphasizes the ongoing global efforts to fight corruption and highlights the collective responsibility we all share in standing against bribery, misuse of public funds, and any selfish motives that contribute to unethical practices.

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide

Every 9 December holds profound significance as the Office of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide marks the adoption of the Genocide Convention, a pivotal global commitment made at the inception of the United Nations. This day, also recognized as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide, highlights the importance of preventing this heinous crime. As we approach the 75th anniversary of the Genocide Convention, it remains a beacon in the fight against genocide, emphasizing international cooperation and a commitment to “never again.”

75th Anniversary Theme

This year’s commemorative event centers on the theme “A Living Force in World Society: The Legacy of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide.” It aims to showcase the Convention’s achievements, its lasting legacy, and the challenges that persist in its effective implementation. The event will serve as a reflection on the tireless efforts that led to the Convention’s drafting and adoption.

“SPORTS”

China’s Ningbo to host World Weightlifting Championships 2026

The Chinese city of Ningbo will host the 2026 World Weightlifting championships, following the 2024 edition in Manama (Bahrain) and the 2025 edition in Forde (Norway). The International Weightlifting Federation announced in a statement after a vote by the IWF Executive Board, meeting in Doha, Qatar, that Ningbo has experience in successfully staging international sports events. Ningbo, located in China’s eastern coastal province of Zhejiang, is not far from the cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou.

“AWARD”

Indian-Origin Novelist Meira Chand Receives Singapore’s Highest Arts Award

81-year-old Indian-origin writer Meira Chand was among the three Singaporeans conferred the Cultural Medallion, the city-state’s most prestigious arts accolade, in recognition of their artistic excellence and contribution to enriching the country’s arts and culture scene. Meira Chand, fellow novelist Suchen Christine Lim and Malay dance veteran Osman Abdul Hamid received the award from President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at a ceremony held at the Istana. The award comes with an SGD 80,000 (approximately Rs 49 lakh) grant for each recipient to support their artistic pursuits.

“APPOINTMENT”

Indian-origin Samir Shah appoints head of BBC Board

A British-Indian has been picked by the U.K. Government to head the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as its next chair. Samir Shah, a 71-year-old former BBC non-executive director and media executive, was born in Aurangabad and moved to the U.K. in 1960. He will head the public broadcaster as it faces questions over its independence and financial challenges with the renewal of its charter.

 “NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

Federal Bank Titled “Bank of the Year 2023” in India : The Banker

In a momentous achievement, Federal Bank, a prominent financial institution, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Bank of the Year (India)” by The Banker, a renowned publication under the Financial Times umbrella. This accolade, one of the few global awards recognizing banks on a worldwide scale, reflects Federal Bank’s exceptional commitment to innovation, customer-centric services, and its outstanding contributions to the banking industry in the past year.