“IMPORTANT DAYS”

World Development Information Day 2025

World Development Information Day is observed every year on 24th October, the same day as United Nations Day, to emphasize the vital role of information and communication technology (ICT) in driving global development and solving challenges faced by nations. In 2025, the observance continues to focus on using digital innovation, media, and information technology to promote economic progress, cooperation, and sustainable development worldwide.

World Polio Day 2025

World Polio Day is observed every year on 24 October to raise awareness about the global fight against polio, a contagious viral disease that can cause permanent paralysis and even death. In 2025, the observance carries the theme “End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere,” emphasizing the urgent need to ensure that every child—regardless of location or circumstance—receives life-saving polio vaccinations. The theme for World Polio Day 2025 is: “End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere.”

United Nations Day 2025 

Every year, 24th October is celebrated as United Nations Day across the world. The day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations Organisation (UNO) in 1945. It serves as a reminder of the UN’s continuous efforts toward global peace, human rights, and sustainable development. In 2025, the UNO has emphasized its mission to spread the values and principles of the UN Charter to every part of the world — reaffirming its commitment to peace, equality, and environmental protection.

“APPOINTMENTS”

Karthik Narain Joins Google Cloud as Chief Product Officer

In a high-profile executive move, Karthik Narain, a former Accenture Chief Technology Officer, has been appointed as the Chief Product and Business Officer of Google Cloud. The announcement was welcomed by Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who expressed optimism that Narain’s leadership will help accelerate the company’s growth in AI and cloud services. This strategic hire comes as Google Cloud deepens its enterprise offerings and expands its AI capabilities globally.

“NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS”

New Zealand Plans Social Media Ban for Under-16s

In a move reflecting growing global concerns about teen mental health and online safety, New Zealand is set to debate legislation that would restrict social media access for children under 16. The bill, introduced by National Party MP Catherine Wedd, proposes mandatory age verification by tech companies before allowing new users to register on social platforms. If passed, this could make New Zealand one of the few countries in the world to adopt such strict social media access laws for minors.

India Launches Online National Drug Licensing System

In response to a series of fatal child deaths linked to toxic cough syrups, India has rolled out a robust digital oversight system — the Online National Drug Licensing System (ONDLS). Spearheaded by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), this system is designed to track high-risk pharmaceutical solvents in real time, ensuring that only verified, safe ingredients are used in medicine manufacturing across the country. This urgent reform underscores India’s renewed focus on pharmaceutical safety and accountability, particularly in the wake of rising international concerns about drug quality.

Ayodhya Sets Guinness Records with 26 Lakh Diyas at Deepotsav 2025

Ayodhya once again lit up the world stage with a record-breaking celebration of Deepotsav 2025, illuminating the sacred city with over 26 lakh oil lamps. This year’s grand festival not only captivated attendees but also set two new Guinness World Records, reaffirming Ayodhya’s cultural and spiritual prominence.

Kerala to Build First Underwater Tunnel Linking Vypin and Fort Kochi

In a historic infrastructure initiative, Kerala is set to build its first underwater tunnel, connecting Vypin and Fort Kochi, as part of the state’s ambitious coastal highway development project. This engineering marvel will significantly reduce the current 16 km road distance to a 3 km sub-sea journey beneath the Arabian Sea, redefining connectivity in Kochi — one of India’s busiest port cities.