“IMPORTANT DAYS”

International Day of Forests 2025

The world celebrates International Day of Forests on March 21, 2025, highlighting the importance of forests and their role in food security and livelihoods. The theme for 2025 is “Forests and Food”, emphasizing the deep connection between forests and nutrition. Forests are the lifelines of our planet, playing a crucial role in oxygen production, food supply, medicinal resources, and livelihoods for millions worldwide. Beyond their ecological significance, forests support global food security by providing essential resources such as fruits, seeds, roots, and wild meat for indigenous and rural communities. Recognizing this, the United Nations (UN) established the International Day of Forests (IDF) to raise awareness about forest conservation and sustainability.

International Nowruz Day 2025

Nowruz, the ancient Persian New Year festival, will be celebrated on March 20 or 21, coinciding with the vernal equinox. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Nowruz continues to bring together diverse communities across Iran, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Balkans, and beyond, celebrating renewal, unity, and the triumph of light over darkness.

World Poetry Day 2025

World Poetry Day 2025 is celebrated globally on March 21 to highlight the significance of poetry as a universal medium of expression. Established by UNESCO in 1999, the day aims to promote poetry reading, writing, publishing, and education while acknowledging its role in cultural preservation and fostering peace. With the 2025 theme, “Poetry as a Bridge for Peace and Inclusion,”

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: 21st March

The year 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), a landmark treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 21, 1965. The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed annually on March 21, highlights the progress made in combating racial discrimination while acknowledging the ongoing challenges. The adoption of ICERD in 1965 was a historic moment in the global fight against racism. The treaty, which aims to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination, has played a crucial role in shaping international human rights policies. The 2025 theme for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is dedicated to reflecting on the progress achieved and the work that still needs to be done to ensure equality and justice for all.

Down Syndrome and World Down Syndrome Day 2025

The 14th World Down Syndrome Day Conference will be hosted by the Down Syndrome International network at the United Nations headquarters in New York on 21 March 2025. Additionally, various events will be held from 20-22 March 2025 at the United Nations in Geneva to observe World Down Syndrome Day.

World Day For Glaciers 2025

The United Nations has declared March 21 as the World Day for Glaciers, as per resolution A/RES/77/158. This initiative, along with the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation 2025, aims to highlight the critical role of glaciers and the urgent need for their conservation amidst climate change threats. Glaciers are nature’s frozen sentinels, vast rivers of ice and snow that shape landscapes and silently bear witness to the changing climate. They serve as freshwater reservoirs, providing drinking water to millions of people while playing a crucial role in regulating sea levels and supporting biodiversity.

“AWARDS”

Hydrologist Günter Blöschl Wins 2025 Stockholm Water Prize

Renowned hydrologist Günter Blöschl has been awarded the 2025 Stockholm Water Prize for his pioneering research in flood hydrology. Announced by the Prize Committee on March 20, 2025, the award recognizes Blöschl’s groundbreaking work in understanding flood risks and water resource management under climate change. His studies have significantly enhanced global flood prediction models, helping communities prepare for extreme weather events.

Ramnath Goenka Awards for Excellence in Journalism 2025

The Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards were presented by President Droupadi Murmu to honor outstanding contributions to Indian journalism. The awards recognize journalists who uphold the values of truth, integrity, and fearless reporting. In her speech, President Murmu highlighted the importance of journalism in sustaining democracy and acknowledged Ramnath Goenka’s legacy in defending press freedom, particularly during the Emergency. She emphasized the need for ground reporting, research-based journalism, and the role of human values in combating challenges posed by AI and misinformation.

“SPORTS”

Japan Becomes First Team to Qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup After Host Nations

Japan secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first team to qualify after the host nations (United States, Canada, and Mexico). A 2-0 victory over Bahrain at Saitama Stadium on March 20, 2025, confirmed Japan’s spot in the expanded 48-team tournament. Goals from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo in the second half sealed the win, ensuring Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.

“APPOINTMENT”

Kirsty Coventry Becomes First Female and African President of the International Olympic Committee

Kirsty Coventry, a legendary swimmer from Zimbabwe, made history on Thursday by smashing the glass ceiling of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to become its first female and first African president in the organisation’s 130-year history. Her election marks a new era for the IOC, symbolizing progress, diversity, and inclusivity in global sports leadership.