Friday, July 4, 2008

National Apple Turnover Day (5th July), Celebrations of National Apple Turnover Day, National Food Holidays

When is National Apple Turnover Day celebrated?

July 5 is celebrated as the National Apple Turnover Day in The world.

How is National Apple Turnover Day celebrated?

•National Apple Turnover Day is celebrated with variety of recipe preparations of Apple.
•There are get-togethers and competitions held to celebrate the day.
•The ethnic diversity of the United States presents an extensive and delicious array of unique American foods on the day.
•Almost all the months have days, proclaimed as National Food holidays.
•Most of the states in United States have also officially recognized food symbols.

Most challenging recipe

•National Apple Turnover Day is a challenging day for all the chefs and cooks in America.
•With apple turnovers, the most challenging task is the method of preparing the pastry crust.
•If a readymade puff pastry which is frozen in condition is used, then the apple turnovers look pretty.
•If a butter crust made in home is used, which is simple to make, pastry taste becomes wonderful.
•It may be with flakes, but it may not be stuffed with layers to make it puffy.
•Sometimes people use their own homemade puff pastry dough.
•It requires skills and methods and it is not as easy like pie dough which is made in home, but one genuinely lip-smacking pastry when it gets prepared.
•One can choose either pie crust which is made with butter at home, or a puff pastry sheet which is frozen to make apple turnovers.
•But it is believed that the butter crust which is made at home is more useful in compare to the puff pastry which is frozen, though it is comparatively more time taking.
•The center of the apple turnovers are made up of apples, apple sauce, walnuts, dried currants, cinnamon and a little sugar vanilla and many other ingredients as per the taste can be used.

When is apple turnover served?

•Apple turnovers may be served in snacks, breakfast, or school lunch programs.
•The optimal quality apple turnovers are stored frozen and never refrigerated.
•Apple turnovers can be stored frozen for up to six months.
•But the apple turnovers have a 4 day shelf life.
•So apple turnovers are the best if used within six months of production.

Preservation of apple turnover

•There are many important measures while preservation and distribution, if not taken care of, can shorten the useful life of a product of apple turnover, such as improper handling and inadequate storage temperatures.
•The inventory control method of “first-in-first-out” should be followed properly by the organization responsible for managing commodity inventories and distribution to the State and local level.
•Products kept past the “Best If used by” dates are not always spoiled.
•Food products may also be consumed after the “Best If Used By” date if the product has been properly stored and handled, and the primary container is in good condition.

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Thursday, July 3, 2008

EVENTS: World Zoonosis Day (6th July), History of World Zoonosis Day, Facts of Zoonosis Day, GSPCA Organization

What is Zoonosis?

•Zoonosis is an ailment that is transmitted from animals to human beings.

When is World Zoonosis Day celebrated?

•World Zoonoses Day is observed on July 6 every year to emphasize and bring the problem awareness amongst people, and teach them to take right action.

Importance of World Zoonoses Day

•The most prevalent of such diseases these days are leptospirosis, and "mad cow disease". But rabies is the deadliest of all.
•So World Zoonoses Day becomes essential to have oneself and one's pets vaccinated against these deadly diseases.
•All animals living as pets and food animals should be regularly vaccinated. World Zoonoses Day is so because even pets can prove dangerous sometimes. Secondly the meat would not be fit for consumption if the animal is not properly vaccinated.
•However, World Zoonoses Day becomes a serious issue when most people show very casual attitude towards vaccination.
•Some are fearful that it can be harmful for their health.

Initiatives from different organization

•The GSPCA, an organization concerning the issue, holds camps for vaccination at Goa.
•Its responsibility is to inoculate street dogs from the disease of rabies.
•There are many advertisements that take place in the press media with announcement of the time and venue about those camps.
•You can also volunteer your services at these camps.
•The organization encourages dog owners from the surrounding locality for the purpose of vaccination at free of cost.
•They also urge the youngsters to take initiatives to bring dogs of the neighbors to fulfill this purpose.
•The GSPCA also hold sterilization camps in areas requested and required on the Zoonoses day.
•In the year 2007, SPCA of the Goa invitation was requested by the Merces Panchayat citizens in order to solve the purpose of running a camp on vaccination against rabies at free of cost.
•They also conduct lectures in different schools.
•They imparted lectures on animal first aid and prevention of rabies.
•Citizens of the Merces Vigilant Association gave the donation for the vaccines.
•lmost 167 stay and pet dogs were immunized to fight rabies by this celebration.
•World Zoonosis Day was observed by the Animal Husbandry Department at Meharban village in Ludhiana on July 6, 2007.
•To increase awareness of zoonotic diseases is the purpose of the camp

Facts and Figures on World Zoonoses Day

•These diseases are communicated from animals to human beings due to the lack of knowledge of prevention and necessary precautions for the pets as well as stray animals.
•Nowadays, there is effective prevention through advance measures in medical science and vaccination.
•Stray Animals Committee inaugurated the campaign.
•The department also inaugurated the anti-rabies vaccination campaign for dogs, to control rabies and inform about zoonotic diseases like rabies, TB, brucellosis and worm infections.
•Rabies Control Society surveyed that almost 30,000 people in India and more than 50,000 people all over the world loose their lives every year due to zoonotic diseases like rabies and TB.
•The participation of panchayats of various villages in the campaign is considered important because their cooperation to control zoonotic diseases is really valuable.
•The illiterate majority of the village should be knowledgeable enough to minimize the death rate due to such diseases.
•Such camps are worthwhile only if the villagers and illiterate population is able to take the maximum advantage to follow preventive measures.
•The function of the zoonosis day is also organized with the help of various companies dealing in veterinary products.

Different programs on World Zoonoses Day

•On World Zoonoses Day, team of experts delivers lectures.
•They also participate in the technical-cum-interactive seminar with the dairy farmers.
•The discussion is regarding common diseases of animals, the importance of vaccination and the importance of proper sheds.
•Our farmers are probably one of the largest victims of the zoonotic diseases. So there participation in such camps becomes all the more important.
•They should be imparted knowledge to save themselves against such deadly diseases.
•Their families should be a part of such educative sessions.
•ur government should provide sufficient funds to organize such camps in every vulnerable locality.
•People should be informed of the organization of camp few days before, to have maximum participation.
•Even we can help the country by educating the servants, maids, lab ours and other unaware majority to attend such camps and follow the rules for their safety.


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Wednesday, July 2, 2008

EVENTS: World Sports Journalists Day (2nd July), Facts, History of World Sports Journalists Day, Celebrations

When World Sports Journalists Day is celebrated?

•World Sports Journalists Day is celebrated on July 2, every year.
•The year 2007 marks the 13th anniversary of World Sports Journalists Day.

Why World Sports Journalists Day celebrated?

•The occasion is celebrated to urge members of the sporting media to strive for excellence in their professional work.
•On should grab hold of every opportunity to use sport as a vehicle for world peace, and to be fair and impartial goal.
•World Sports Journalists Day is the responsibility as journalists to set an example to the world.
•A journalist can add value not only to the world of sport, but to the world at large - to culture, to peace, and to good values.

World Sports Journalists Day History of origin

•World Sports Journalists Day all started when various sports journalists assembled at a game show during the twentieth century.
•World Sports Journalists Day took place during the Olympic Games at Antwerp in the year 1920.
•The requirement and plan for uniting sports journalists from the entire globe firstly took place from this event.
•The International Sports and Press Association (AIPS), a body was established in the year 1924 while Olympic Games took place in Paris
•As that venue is the Headquarters of the Sporting Club of France.
•Main initiators were:

oFrantz Reichel
oThe Belgian Victor Boin along with their co-workers Tegner and Pozzi.
  • goal of the association is to increase the participation from different member countries in order to defend sport and the skilled interest of the members.
  • It emphasizes on strengthening the companionship, bonding and liking & disliking between sports journalists all over the globe.
  • Its effort is to provide the better working environment for the fellow members.
World Sports Journalists Day Facts and Figures

•Sport journalism has flourished as a different kind of sports activities all over the world has taken a new shape in terms of power, wealth and influence.
•Sports journalism is an integral coverage matter for every media group.
•Sports journalism involves organizations dedicated only to different sports covering dailies, like L'Equipe in France, La Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy.
•Life of sports in various Britain and American magazines like Sports Illustrated and the Sporting News, sports talk radio stations, and television channels like ESPN.
•The 1950s and 1960s saw a rapid growth in sports journalism both in the printing and the broadcasting media.
•There was development of specialist sports news and the photographic agencies.
•Through some outstanding photography media business has grow into a multi-million pound.
•Since the 1990s, the sport is growing on a rapid pace. It has become a global business and the handsome amounts of money are involved from sponsorship and in the staging of the Olympic Games and football World Cups. These events have attracted the attention of well-known investigative and skilled journalists. The nature of the relationships between the subjects of sports journalists reporting and sports journalists is very sensitive.
•Most of the countries have formed their individual national association for the sports journalists.
•The particular sport has its personal associations and clubs for specialist journalists.
•These associations are not like trades unions; rather, it sets certain goal in order keep up the exact podium of press at sports venues.
•They emphasize on better accreditation methodologies and try to maintain good standards of sports journalism.
•The Sports Journalist Association was established in the year 1948 in Britain.
•It organizes two honorable awards shows.
•One is an annual Sports Academy ceremony.
•This show hunts great performances by sportsmen and sports women of the last event
•Second is the British Sports Journalism Awards.
•Main sponsor of this event is UK Sport.
•It is presented each Year in March.
•Few reputed dailies, like The Sunday Times, started adopting the policy to hire former sports personalities to write columns in place of journalists.
•But use to work as ghost writers.
•But it could not grow much as good-will of sports journalism started falling under the category of academic scrutiny as per the parameter.
•Sports journalism in Britain has attracted different talented journalist.
•The Daily Mirror proprietor Peter Wilson, Hugh McIlvanney of Sunday Times, Ian Wooldridge of the Daily Mail and soccer writer Brian Glanville use to write for the Sunday Times, became very popular names through their instant and skilled journalistic approach for giving coverage on various memorable events like the Massacre at the Munich Olympics in 1972, Muhammad Ali's fight career, and the Heysel Stadium disaster.

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EVENTS: World Violin Day (13th December), History of World Violin Day, Role of Violin in today’s world, Arnold Rose

When is World Violin Day?

•World Violin day is celebrated on 13th of December every year.
•Just twelve days before Christmas.
•So, World Violin day is the Christmas Seasons celebrations as well that take place across the world and in these celebrations violin plays a very vital role.
•Also International Violin Day is celebrated in the month of June on the 17th every year.

History of Violin

•Violin is said to be one of the best instruments to play, though it is equally tough.
•Origin of violin was during the time of 9th century in Europe or rather Asia.
•No body actually knows as to who invented this instrument.
• Violin came into limelight in the fifteenth century in Italy where violins were made in the town of Cremona in northern Italy.
•Violin took almost 450 years to bring it in the form what it looks like today.
•I Violin is a sophisticated kind of string instrument.
•Violin has one musical bow as well as an arched stick where a string is strongly tied to its two ends.
•The string is separated by a bridge or loop.
•For enhancing its resonance, the primitive bow is placed in front of the mouth.

Best Violinist of the world

•Arnold Rosé the world's first violinist.
•Arnold Rosé was one of most renowned violinist of Europe.
•Arnold Rosé became heart of instrumental in Vienna for over half a century.
•Arnold Rosé e was born on 24th of October in the year 1863 in Romania.
•Arnold Rosé began his career at Leipzig Gewandhaus on the 30th day of October of 1879,
•Arnold Rosé started it with Carl Reinecke
•This proved to be the wonderful start of his career.
•On the 10th April in the year 1881, Arnold Rosé took part at the Goldmark Concerto held in Vienna accompanied by the Philharmonic under the supervision of Hans Richter.
•Then Arnold Rosé was appointed by Wilhelm Jahn.
•Wilhelm Jahn was the director of the Court (later State) Opera.
•He was working for the position of deputy concertmaster and the first soloist.
•Rose bid farewell to his life and music in the year 1946 on 25th of August.
•Arnod Rose was a great personality and an exceptional artist who enjoyed a golden career and was denied only the serene old age which was his right.
•Not only him but his daughter was also a Violinist.

Role of Violin in today’s world

•In today's time Violin has become one of most popular instruments across the world.
•Today violin is not limited to the little peace that could be held with hands and supported be the chin but now it available in all sizes.
•Across the world there are concerts held by big violin Maestros who have their full orchestra that travels and entertain the people.
•High profile personalities come over to attend these concerts to enjoy the fiddling melodies and leaving them with the lovely remembrance of the melodies that fill the air with the fragrance of music leaving all speechless.

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Monday, May 5, 2008

EVENTS: World Athletics Day (May 5th) - World Athletics Day History, Activities, Events, World Athletics Day 2008.

BACKGROUND:

•The World Athletics Day is organized by the IAAF (International Amateur Athletic Federation).
•All events and expenses are sponsored by the IAAF.
•World Athletics Day was celebrated for the first time in 1996.
•It is celebrated on any chosen date in the month of May every year.
•212 IAAF member federations participate in this event.
•National authorities for school sports are roped in to promote sports in schools.

PURPOSE:

World Athletics Day is celebrated world-wide to:
•Popularize sports among the youth
•Promote Athletics as the primary sport in schools and institutions
•Encourage and introduce new talent and youngsters in the field of athletics.

ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS:

•A grand motivational prize is announced for the lucky draw winner among the winning national youth athletes.
•The grand prize usually involves a fully-paid visit to an international sports meet held anywhere in the world.
•Gifts such as posters, T-shirts, pins are distributed among the participating member federations.
•An IAAF World Athletics Day Diploma is presented to all participating athletes.
•Programs are conducted to encourage the promotion of Athletics as an International Sport.
•Championship events are organized in each category for pre-determined age groups.
•The winners of championships get an opportunity to enter the field of Athletics and take it up as a profession.
•The competitions and events are targeted at youth aged 17 or lower.

World Athletics Day 2008:

•This year the events are hosted by Ocean Athletics Track and Field Club.
•World Athletics Day 2008 will be held on May 7.
•The event will be presided over by White Rock Mayor Judy Forster.
•Special invitees for the event include Linda Hepner, Councillor for Surrey.
•The ceremony will be announced and conducted by Thelma Wright and Lynn Kanuka.
•The High School Invitation Meet will feature competent athletes from Lower Mainland in all events.
•A special event- The Home Depot Community Kid’s Sprint Races will also be held in the evening.

GRAND PRIZE:

Here are a few examples of the lucky-draw prizes:
YEAR PRIZE
1998 : Return ticket to Johannesburg, accommodation, meals and entry ticket to the meet
2007 : IAAF World Championships in Athletics in Osaka, Japan from 25 Aug-2 Sept, 2007.
2008 : Invitation to attend Hercules Meeting in Monaco on July 29, 2008.

SUCCESSES:

World Athletics Day is now over ten years old and has met with the following successes:
•Encouragement of Athletics in schools in IAAF member nations.
•Discovery of new talent and youth in the field of Athletics.
•Motivation of young athletes through prizes and incentives.
•Offering professional opportunities to young athletes.

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EVENTS: Coal Miners Day – Coal Miners Day Objectives, Initiatives, Activities for Safety and Unity of Coal Miners.

INTRODUCTION: Just as there is a “day” for everything else, why not have one for the coal-miners!

BACKGROUND:

These are some of the important features of Coal-miners day:

•Coal-miner’s day is a relatively new concept.
•The announcement for the same was made in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
•The trend was started by Governor Edward G. Rendell.
•In 2007, he officially marked 19 Dec as “Coal-Miners Day”.
•The Governor made this decision in acknowledgement of the importance of the coal miners’ place in the society.
•The increasing number of mining accidents and deaths drew attention towards safety laws.

The following bodies collaborated to take up the cause of safety and unity of the miners:

•The administration
•The legislature
•Labor unions and
•Mining companies

OBJECTIVES:

In an attempt to strengthen the safety laws for miners, the following points were proposed on Coal-miners Day:

•Updating of the law that remains unmodified for over 40 years.
•Prompt implementation of the new bills.
•Handling the responsibility for the safety of the mines to respective owners/operators.
•Creating a seven-member Mine Safety Board to outline regulations and rules.
•Introduce new technologies to enhance safety measures.
•Verification and updates of underground mine maps to avoid accidents

INITIATIVES (CASE STUDY):

Since the past years, the following changes have been made to enhance and ensure safety of miners:


•Induction of safety officials to examine mine permits applications and reject them if any fallacy in safety measures is observed.
•Underground mine maps to be validated and verified prior to conducting mining operations.
•Increasing the distance between active and abandoned mine from 200 feet to 500 feet to reduce the probability of accidents.
•Replacement of old equipment and induction of state-of-art safety equipment and technology.
•Conducting regular awareness, training and teaching programs for mining personnel at all levels.

GOVERNOR’S PERSPECTIVE:

•The Governor commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Darr Coal Mine Disaster on Coal Miners Day.
•He acknowledged the significance of coal in the history and economy of Pennsylvania.
•He paid a tribute to all the miners who had lost their lived in mine disasters and urged others to learn from these unfortunate incidents.

ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS:

Coal Miners Day is celebrated mostly in the United States in the following manner:

•Events and programs to honor and acknowledge the contribution and sacrifices of miners.
•Paying tribute to all miners who have lost their lives and their families.
•Acknowledging the great professional risk that miners encounter everyday.
•Analyzing the efficacy of safety measures in conferences.

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EVENTS: World Press Freedom Day (May 3rd) – World Press Freedom Day, Freedom of Press, Freedom of Expression under Declaration of Human Rights.

What is World Press Day?

•World Press Freedom Day is a day observed all over the world on May 3 to create awareness of the importance of freedom of the press, freedom of expression constituted under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
•Proclaimed and designated by the UN General Assembly in 1993, the day is celebrated every year on 3rd of May.

Objective

•The objective of the World Press Freedom Day is to remind our governmental and non-governmental organizations and the civil society of the vital role of the liberty or freedom of press in strengthening democracies and promoting development around the world.
•The day is marked by the speech, debates and discussion events.
•Speech by the President of the General Assembly and the Secretary-General is delivered on the day.
•There are panel discussion with eminent journalists and reporters, ministers involving general public sometime on the Media to generate awareness and importance of the day.
•The discussion provides opportunity to debate issues such as the freedom and responsibilities of the press.
•The foremost agenda nowadays is safety and security of journalists. Emphasis is laid on efforts of government and corporate to control media.
•The Internet and its governance as well as the capacity of media to effect and improve socio-economic development by increasing awareness, eradication of poverty are major issues of debate and discussion on this day.
•There are many conferences all over the world which are based on various selective themes like press freedom and its governance, terrorism coverage by press and media, the role of media in the countries which had conflicts.

Significance

•Freedom of expression and press has severe limitations like murder, kidnapping, pressure, intimidation, the unjust imprisonment of journalists, and the destruction of facilities.
•The day is emphasized to enforce stringent punishments for such acts, prompt investigations and quick punishment.
•Achievements
•World Press Freedom Prize by UNESCO is awarded to a deserving individual or an organization or institution that has given an excellent contribution to the promotion of press freedom anywhere in the world.
•The award was decided for the first time in 1997.
•The day wants to convey that “The rights to life and to liberty and integrity and security of person and also to freedom of expression are fundamental human rights that are recognized and guaranteed by international conventions and instruments.” (UNESCO Resolution, General Conference, 1997).
•So, all of us should have the knowledge of our fundamental rights.

How is it celebrated?

•All over the world, the world press freedom day serves as an occasion to inform all the communities of violations of the right to freedom of expression and freedom of opinion. The day is a reminder of daring death and sacrifices or jail of many journalists, to bring daily news for the general public.
•According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), World Press Freedom Day is a day of to promote and suggest initiatives in favor of the freedom of the press.
•It is a day to assess the state of press freedom throughout the world.
•It also preaches us and our governments to respect their commitments to press freedom. The primary goal of the day is to increase awareness of the importance of freedom of the press amongst all the communities of the world.
•It is a day of substantial debate among professionals of press and media on the issues of professional ethics.
•On the day, we can pay homage to the journalists who have lost their lives in their profession.
•Believe it or not but freedom of press is considered to be a foundation of human rights.
•It is the keystone of guarantee of other freedoms.
•It promotes transparency and good governance to ascertain that society enjoys the statute of justice. Freedom of the press is a link between understanding and knowledge.
•It plays a vital role in the swapping of ideas between nations and cultures leading to the true perceptive and permanent cooperation.

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EVENTS: International Sun Day (May 3rd) – International Sun Day Significance, Celebrations by NASA, Case Study.

What is International Sun Day?

•International Sun day has been celebrated over the past seven years on May 3, 2008.
•The day is sponsored and celebrated by NASA.

Significance

•Its Sun-Earth connection education forum organizes and coordinates events to highlight NASA Sun-Earth Connection research and discoveries.
•Sun-Earth Day is during the March equinox.

Celebration Strategy

•The celebration strategy is to involve schools students of senior secondry section like IX, XII and the general public also.
•Many junior sections of the schools are also invited to participate in Solar Week in spring 2008 to learn about solar science, solar energy and to choose the career option.
•The celebration on the day is marked by the celestial events, such as total solar eclipses and the Transit of Venus, and Sun-Earth Day during the March Equinox.
•They participate in space science activities, demonstrations, and various interactive sessions and quiz with space scientists.
•You can also register yourself to receive a monthly update from NASA about Sun-Earth Day events.
•Science centers, museums, Sun-Earth Connection missions, the Exploratorium, NASA Connect, and others in association with each other, produce webcasts, multi-media, and print resources that can be used by the students, professors, other educational institute all over the world.
•They also impart training for professional development of students who opt for professional courses and their educators, museum personnel, amateur astronomers, etc., so they can take advantage of resources of NASA.
•A collaborated approach organizes multiple programs every year following a common theme.

Case Study

•During the solar week, in the schools there’s a message board where students as well as whole class can submit questions to solar scientists.
•In the year 2006, on the world international day there was a NASA led expedition to study the total solar eclipse in collaboration with the scientists and researchers across the globe
•On the day, during the event stunning images of sun and earth and the latest observations from satellites, are used to give a virtual trip of the Sun.
•There are discussions on its various types of activity and its impact and influence on the Earth.
•The day is a wonderful opportunity to take part in an interactive, internet session to on various inquisitive interesting topics to know out how one can view close-up, real-time, images of the Sun from home.
•You can also discover more about the Sun and its upcoming effects on our lives.
•One of main goals of the day is to help scientists understand the interactions between the Sun and the Earth's environment, which will definitely facilitate them to predict the Sun's activity and motion, and thus, space weather conditions.

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Friday, May 2, 2008

EVENTS: May 25th World Meteorological Day – World Meteorological Organization Objectives, Significances, Themes.

World Meteorological Day- Significance

World Meteorology Day is observed on 23 March every year.
Commemorates the founding of the World Meteorological Organization by the WMO Convention in 1950
Marks a significant occasion for the World Meteorological Organization.
Is celebrated by 188 members of the World Meteorological Organization worldwide.
In 1951, the WMO was designated a specialized agency of the United Nations.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

Originated from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO)
IMO was founded in 1873 and established in 1950.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of United Nations dealing with:
Meteorology (weather and climate),
Operational hydrology
Geophysical sciences

World Meteorological Day- Objectives

World Meteorological Day is celebrated keeping in mind the following aims:
To promote global cooperation in the establishment of meteorological observation stations.
To promote establishment of stations for hydrological and geophysical observations.
To promote maintenance and upkeep of observation stations and equip them adequately with resources for research and equipment.
To promote the establishment and maintenance of systems for the rapid exchange of meteorological and related information
To promote standardization of meteorological and related observations and to ensure the uniform publication of observations and statistics
To increase the scope of meteorology to other areas like aviation, shipping, water problems, agriculture and other human activities;
To promote development in operational hydrology and encourage close co-operation between Meteorological and hydrological Services;
To promote research and training in meteorology and in related fields.
To promote international collaboration in research and training.
World Meteorological Day – Message

World Meteorological Day is celebrated to deliver the following messages to the public:

Provide information for better understanding of climatic variability and change.
Assist in understanding the impact of meteorology on environment and surroundings.
Ways to implement climatic application to address environmental concerns.

World Meteorological Day – Themes

Let us now observe WMO themes that have been adopted in the past five years:

Year Theme
2003 Our future climate

2004 Weather, climate, water in the information age
2005 Weather, climate, water and sustainable development
2006 Preventing and mitigating natural disasters
2007 Polar meteorology:
Understanding global impacts

World Meteorology Day-2008

In 2008, the celebrations will take place on the 25th of May at the Secretariat.
2008 marks the Centenary of The Commonwealth Bureau of Meteorology which was established in 1908.
The event will mark the importance of the work of the Bureau through the past 100 years, and the linkages it has with WMO in ensuring weather services are appropriate to the needs of the community.
Awards will be given to staff members who have served for more than 30 years.
A new book, "Weather Prophets of South Australia" will be released at the function which deals with the works, projects and contribution of the Commonwealth Bureau of Meteorology
The World Meteorology Day Centenary function will be held at on 26 March 2008 at the Bureau of Meteorology, Kent Town.


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Thursday, May 1, 2008

EVENTS: May 22nd International Day for Biodiversity – History, Objectives, Themes of International Day for Biodiversity.

International Day for Biodiversity Background:

International Day for Biodiversity was first celebrated on 29 December, 1994.

From year 2001 onwards, the date shifted to 22 May.
International Day for Biodiversity marks the date of adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of flora and fauna that make up an ecosystem.
Preservation of these ecosystems is vital to natural balance and our existence.
The biggest challenge in conservation and management of ecosystems in lack of public awareness and knowledge.
Ecosystems are constantly depleting due to growing human population and activities.

International Day for Biodiversity Objective:

The United Nations declared May 22 as the "International Day for Biological Diversity".
The aim is to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity related issues.
Every year a different theme is adopted to emphasize upon a certain aspect of Biodiversity.
International Biodiversity Day is celebrated in all countries across the globe.
Events and programs are organized based on the annual theme.
International Day for Biodiversity Themes:

Let us look at some themes that have been adopted in the past few years for the International Day for Biodiversity.
YEAR THEME
2002 -Forest biodiversity
2003 Biodiversity and poverty alleviation
2004 Food, Water and Health for All
2005 Life Insurance for our Changing World
2006 Protect Biodiversity in Drylands
2007 Biodiversity and Climate Change
2008 Biodiversity and Agriculture

The International Day for Biological Diversity - 22 May 2008

Biodiversity and Agriculture is the chosen theme for 2008.
Biodiversity and ecosystems form the basis or all agriculture and livestock.
Agriculture is one of the many human activities that have had a major impact on ecosystems in the past years.
Agriculture contributes to biodiversity but can also disturb existing ecosystems.
The aim is to promote sustainable agriculture that works towards preservation of ecosystems.
Sustainable agriculture will ensure enough food and means of livelihood for the exponentially growing population in the present century.
Production and maintenance of agricultural goods and food Biodiversity is essential.
Sustainable agriculture enhanced by biodiversity.
This involves careful and efficient use of resources like water, land, soil and fertilizers Sustainable agriculture uses water, land and nutrients efficiently, while producing lasting.

International Day for Biodiversity Proposals:

Policymakers and consumers must contribute to ascertain that farmers and agricultural producers are motivated and equipped to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.
Awareness about modifying food choices also goes a long way.
Ecosystems and biodiversity can also be conserved by proper landscape level planning

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Tuesday, April 29, 2008

EVENTS: May 11th National Technology Day – Achievements, Significance of National Technology Day.

May 11 is celebrated as National Technology Day in India.

Significance of National Technology Day
National Technology Day is a very special day for Indian science since 1999. It is so significant because India achieved a huge technological advancement on the day.
The first, indigenous aircraft “Hansa-3” was test flown at Bangalore on this day.
Not only this, India also performed successful test firing of the Trishul missile on the same day.
India also executed three successful nuclear tests, carried out at Pokhran, in Rajasthan May 11.

Achievements of National Technology Day
Achieving all the progression, India today has the technological, institutional and manpower strengths to become the Super power of the coming age.
India was able to meet all the challenges in this technological advancement because of the collaboration with US scientists and organizations.
So, the National Technology Day is an occasion to recollect the achievements of India in the field of science and technology and to acknowledge the association that has helped and existed, between the scientific communities of India and the United States.
Since India got independence it has witnessed astounding strides in all fields of science and technology development.
India has also strengthened agriculturally in the last few decades.
All the factors like high-yielding varieties of seeds, fertilizers, chemicals and mechanization in agriculture led to the Green Revolution.
The revolution has transformed India from into a country with surplus production of many important, high quality products of milk, food grains, fruits as well as vegetables that is being exported to the countries around the globe.
Development and advancement of biotechnology has further added to the growth of the nation.
Our health and nutrition standards have increased magnificently.
The country has made significant achievement in the IT industry, to which we have received global acknowledgment.

DRDO contribution
Every year Delhi-based DRDO laboratories celebrate the Technology Day with great enthusiasm at the Laser Science & Technology Centre (LASTEC), Delhi.
There are many technological researches being carried out in DRDO systems.
There is a need to install enormously large number of systems which can involve different technologies on a single platform.
So, to achieve success it is essential to know the interplay of these technologies with each other.
Sometimes seemingly unrelated technologies are able to impart simple and lucrative solutions to complex problems that are not possible by conventional means.

DARL Contribution
The Defense Agricultural Research Laboratory (DARL), Pithoragarh, also celebrates the anniversary of technology day every year.
It demonstrates several technologies, such as:
Greenhouse technology
Variety of improvement program
Vegetable seed production
Agro-technology for cultivation of various herbal plants and preparation of herbal formulations
Aquaculture
Dairy cattle
Hydroponics for knowledge of school students, farmers and other interested professional on the day.

DIPAS contribution
The Defense Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS), Delhi, organizes an open house for the general public and school students every year on the day.
There was various physiological tests performed free of charge on the occasion.
The tests include:
Blood sugar,
Blood pressure,
Electrocardiography,
Lung function tests,
Blood group testing,
Eyesight testing,
Body fat measurements etc.
A science quiz contest is conducted for students and the prizes are given to the winners of the competition to enhance awareness of technology.
VRDE contribution
The Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (VRDE), celebrates the day to increase awareness amongst the general public as well as the professionals on the Technology Day by organizing lectures on Vehicles.
More facts
The category of vehicles includes all sorts of Unmanned Ground Vehicles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
Many delegates from army, students of various engineering colleges attend and participate in the occasion.
On the day the National Centre for Automotive Testing (NCAT) welcomes the interested public with no obligation.
The Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh celebrates the Day by inviting the families of the employees, school students and other personage to publicize and show the firing demonstration and various technical advancement of the Laboratory.
Technology Day Award for major contribution in research findings on Technological Developments and Genomics Research is also given on the day to the selected personality.

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Monday, April 28, 2008

EVENTS:World No-Tobacco Day(May 31st) – History, Themes, Celebrations, Events of World No Tobacco Day of 2006, 2007 & 2008.

History of World No-Tobacco Day:

The concept of World No-Tobacco Day was initiated because millions of people die each year around the world owing to tobacco consumption and abuse. Initially, April 7 was chosen as the “world no-smoking day” when the World Health Assembly passed a resolution regarding the same in 1987. In 1988, the World Health Assembly passed another resolution calling for May 31 to be celebrated as “World No- Tobacco Day” every year.

Purpose of World No-Tobacco Day:

•Purpose of celebrating World No-Tobacco Day is to:
•Increase public awareness regarding hazards of tobacco use and abuse.
•Inform consumers about the business strategies of tobacco industry and trade.
•Spread the message about WHO initiatives for anti-tobacco campaigns.
•Promote healthy lifestyle and habits among people.
•Device ways to protect the future generations from tobacco abuse.

Events and Themes of World No-Tobacco Day:

Here is a table citing the yearly themes for World No Tobacco Day since 1990:

•1990 - Childhood and youth without tobacco: growing up without tobacco
•1991 - Public places and transport: better be tobacco free
•1992 - Tobacco free workplaces: safer and healthier
•1993 - Health services: our windows to a tobacco free world
•1994 - Media and tobacco: get the message across
•1995 - Tobacco costs more than you think
•1996 - Sport and art without tobacco: play it tobacco free
•1997 - United for a tobacco free world
•1998 - Growing up without tobacco
•1999 - Leave the pack behind
•2000 - Tobacco kills, don't be duped
•2001 - Second-hand smoke kills
•2002 - Tobacco free sports
•2003 - Tobacco free film, tobacco free fashion
•2004 - Tobacco and poverty, a vicious circle
•2005 - Health professionals against tobacco
•2006 - Tobacco: deadly in any form or disguise
•2007 - Smoke free inside
•2008 - Tobacco-free youth

World No Tobacco Day 2005

•Focused on the role and scope of health professionals in curbing the tobacco epidemic.
•Stressed upon the importance of pro-active measures on behalf of health care professionals.
•Medical personnel have a wide public reach and their advice is taken seriously by patients.
•They can help spread awareness and help in rehabilitation of addicts.

World No Tobacco Day 2006

•The developing countries are worst hit by the tobacco epidemic.
•The morbidity and mortality caused by tobacco consumption affects productivity and development of these countries.
•Tobacco industries continue to market their products aggressively irrespective of the wide-spread damage being caused.
•Many new brands of cigarettes have emerged that claim to be “light”, “mild”, “low tar” and “fruit flavored”.
•These new brands are just gimmicks to attract more health conscious customers and are equally damaging to health and well-being.
•The event encourages authorities to lay strict regulations and guidelines to increase awareness and deter deceptive packaging for commercial purposes.

World No Tobacco Day 2007

•The number of deaths caused by passive smoking is equally alarming as are those caused by active smoking.
•Discourages smoking at public places.
•Campaigns for strict laws and regulations to be enforced regarding offenders.
•Aims at discouraging smokers from polluting the environment.

World No Tobacco Day 2008

•Focuses on the youth’s exposure to tobacco and increasing nicotine dependence amount adolescents and young adults.
•Draws attention to the tobacco industry’s marketing strategies that target youth.
•Escalating levels of tobacco abuse among young people has a direct effect on the nation’s economy and social conditions.
•This year attempts are being made to enforce strict regulations regarding information, sale and consumption

Tips and ideas for celebrating World No Tobacco Day:

Celebrate World Tobacco Day this year in your own way. One can do the following things in order to contribute to the cause:

•Spread a message that is relevant to the year’s WHO theme.
•Many anti-tobacco organizations give out free posters, cards and information brochures. Make use of these resources.
•Put up a World Tobacco Day message at you workstation or office so that it is visible to many people.
•Publish newsletters giving information about events and opinions.
•If you are organizing an event, publicize it through public and community areas like schools, malls, colleges, shops etc.
•Rope in local well-known personalities like politicians and other public figures to popularize the event.
•Send mailers, flyers and letters to as many people as possible.
•Display event related information on your own or local community website.
•Write to your local newspaper or submit articles dealing with tobacco and related health concerns.
•Interview local medical practitioners or social workers and ask them to talk about smoking and its ill effects.

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EVENTS: World Anti Terrorism Day(May 21st) – History, Features, Purpose, Pledge of World Anti Terrorism Day.

Background of World Anti-Terrorism Day:

•Terrorist activities have increased multi-fold over the last decade.
•A global initiative uniting all nations is required to combat terrorism.
•After the 9/11 terrorist attack on the U.S, terrorism has become the primary cause of concern for nations.

History of World Anti-Terrorism Day:

•The concept of World Anti-Terrorism Day was initiated because thousands of youth are lured into the folds of terrorist camps and organizations each year.
•May 21 is observed as Anti-terrorism day every year.

Purpose of World Anti-Terrorism Day:

•The Purpose of observing World Anti-Terrorism Day is to:
•Spread the message of global peace and non-violence.
•Deter vulnerable youth from following cult practices and being misguided.
•Commemorate and honor the sacrifices made by thousands of soldiers who battled against terrorism.
•Pay homage to the victims who lost their lives in terrorist attacks.
•Device ways and hold awareness programs to protect the future generations from radical influence.

Important Features of World Anti-Terrorism Day:

Features on Anti-Terrorism Day are as follows:

•Observing a few minutes of silence to express grief over the damage caused by terrorism world-wide.
•Pledging to oppose violence and promote peace.
•Organizing programs and campaigns to further the cause of combating terrorism.

The events and programs conducted on World Anti-Terrorism Day are initiated by:

•The Union Home Ministry
•State Governments
•Union Territory Administrations.

The Pledge taken on World Anti-Terrorism Day:

"We, the people of India, having abiding faith in our country’s tradition of non-violence and tolerance, hereby solemnly affirm to oppose with our strength, all forms of terrorism and violence. We pledge to uphold and promote peace, social harmony, and understand among all fellow human beings and fight the forces of disruption threatening human lives and values."

Important Events:

World Anti-Terrorism Day, 1997:

•Congress raised protests against terrorism on the sixth death anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi.
•Congressmen marched to the Hutatma Chowk in Mumbai for the campaign.
•A national integrity oath was taken at Tilak Bhawan and Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) headquarters at Dadar. MPCC.
•Protesters wore black bands as a symbol of protest against terrorism.

World Anti-Terrorism Day, 2006:

•Collector V. Chandrasekaran and officials took Anti-Terrorism Day pledge in Tuticorin.
•In Tirunelveli, Collector Atul Anand administered Anti-Terrorism Day pledge to the collector ate staff.
•The simple event was attended by all prominent political personalities.

World Anti-Terrorism Day, 2007:

•Wreath laying event was organized at Rajiv Gandhi’s statue all over India.
•Eminent political and local personalities attended the event.
•State Chief Minister administered pledge of Anti-Terrorism and Nonviolence to work for the communal and social harmony collectively.
•Devotional and patriotic songs were sung and pious rituals were conducted to honor the martyrs.

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EVENTS: 17th May World Telecommunication Day – History, Landmarks of World Telecommunication Day of 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008.

History of World Telecommunication Day

World Telecommunication Day commemorates the founding of the International Telecommunication Union in 1865.

The first World Telecommunication Day was celebrated in 1969.
Since then the 17th of May has been observed as World Telecommunication Day every year.
The World Telecommunication Day has been identified by the Tunis phase of the World Summit on the Information Society as "World Information Society Day", since 2006.

Functions and Role of the ITU:

ITU was formed following the increasing demand for domain names among internet users all over the world.
The function of the ITU is to co-ordinate global telecom networks and services with governments and the private sector.
The ITU also sets international regulations and treaties to facilitate international communication.
It works towards development of telecommunication systems in developing nations.
Though it ITU was founded in Paris, its present head-quarters are located in Geneva, Switzerland.

Important landmarks in the history of World Telecommunication Day:

The World Telecommunication Day celebrates and acknowledges the following developments that have taken place over the years:
Invention of the first electric telegraph in 1837.
International Telegraph Union Found by twenty States with the adoption of the first Convention and in 1865, the introduction of first Telegraph Regulations
Invention of the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell in 1876.
First provisions for international telephone service took place in 1885.
First signals transmitted by radio-relay system in 1895.
First radio transmission of human voice in 1902.
Broadcasting of voice and music through radiotelephony in 1906.
Sound broadcasting pioneered in 1920.
Invention of telegraph in 1932.
ITU becomes a special agency of United Nations in 1947.
World’s first artificial satellite Sputnik-I launched in 1957
1983 was celebrated as the “World Communications Year”.

Focus areas of telecommunication:

Harmonize national policies
Bridge technological differences
Promote connectivity
Foster interoperability of systems on a global scale
Overcome physical distances globally through internet, television, phone etc.

Why World Telecommunication Day is celebrated?

World Telecommunications Day is celebrated with the following objectives:
Enhance public awareness about the benefits of communication technology.
Make information and communication more accessible to people residing in under-developed regions.
Increase the global reach of technology across all nations and socio-economic strata.
Let us now study the themes and examples of World Telecommunication Day celebrations in the past three years:

World Telecommunication Day 2005:

Creating an Equitable Information Society: Time for Action was the chosen theme for World Telecommunication Day 2005.
World Telecommunication Day 2005 marked the 140th anniversary of the advent of telecommunications in our lives.
Technology and communications have come a long way since the invention of telegraph.
Only a limited fraction of the world population has access to telecommunication.
The aim is to provide equal access to communication systems to all of humanity.
ITU has held Summits to device principles in order to make communication easy and economical for people across all geographical locations.

World Telecommunication Day 2006:

Promoting Global Cyber-security was the chosen theme for World Telecommunication Day 2006.
As communication networks expand, so does the risk of information threats and stealth.
Misuse and mishandling of important data can have serious economical and social repercussions.
The aim of World Telecommunication Day 2006 is to make online communications more secure.
Developing confident relationships with consumers will enhance the infrastructure and promote efficiency of online trade, commerce, banking, telemedicine, e-government and a host of other applications.
Achieving the desired levels of Cyber-security calls for involvement at national, community and individual level.

World Telecommunication Day 2007:

“Connecting the Youth, the Opportunities of ICT” was adopted as the theme for 2007.
Young people constitute a large fraction of information technology users.
They are in an optimum position to develop and contribute to the development of telecommunication systems worldwide.
The aim is to focus on youth power in order to bridge the digital divide and make communication more accessible for future generations.

World Telecommunication Day 2008:

The theme for 2008 is “Connecting persons with disabilities”.
ICT aims to make services and equipment accessible to differently people.
The aim is to provide people with special needs with right to information and encourage them to participate equally.
For this a holistic approach is required and public stereotypes and attitudes have to be changed.Inputs and ideas from this information deprived community may help further the technology development in the communication field.

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EVENTS: May 8th World Red Cross Day – Global Theme on Celebrations of World Red Cross Day this year is “Together for Humanity”.

When World Red Cross Day is celebrated

The World Red Cross Day is celebrated every year on May 8 to emphasize the role of its members and volunteers in saving lives and aiding the defenseless communities around the world.

America also celebrates World Red Cross Day on May 8

Why World Red Cross Day is celebrated

World Red Cross Day is very significant for the Red Cross because it is also celebrated as the birthday of its founder Henri Dunant.

America celebrates World Red Cross Day to emphasize the hard work that all National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies dedicate worldwide for the relief of human distress and misery occurring due to disease, famine, disaster or war.

How World Red Cross Day is celebrated

There is a selection of theme every year on the World Red Cross Day to emphasize the goal of the celebration. The global theme of this year is “Together for Humanity”.

The theme is chosen to draw attention to the need and power of partnerships of organizations. It also highlights the need for stronger local and global associations in facing the growing humanitarian challenges.

On World Red Cross Day the American Red Cross give special focus on programs and activities to provide healthy and safe environment to the children around the world.

About World Red Cross Society

Today Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies have the world's largest humanitarian network to provide relief. It is carrying out its activities and is present in more than 170 countries.

So it is the world's largest force of unpaid assistants helping some 233 million recipients every year. The total no. of members of National Societies of the Red Cross and Red Crescent comprises approximately 97 million members and volunteers.

The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement was originated as a result of aspiration to provide the first aid as wells as all the possible assistance to the victim on the battlefield thus alleviating the human suffering

We can help in averting the deadly and painful diseases like measles etc by vaccinating children during such crises. Nevertheless the eradication of the diseases should be the primary objective to save children from sufferings.

The American Red Cross and its partners are accomplishing this mission in many regions of the world.

The Africa Women's Initiative (AWI) is another collaboration of the American Red Cross and African Red Cross societies to prevent and lessen the high rate of maternal and child mortality in Africa.

AWI has also contributed as a five-year, integrated health education and advocacy program with a gender component.

The international Red Cross is an organization whose mission is to safeguard human life and health. Its aim is to prevent and lessen human suffering ensuring indiscrimination on the basis of nationality, race, class or political opinions, religious beliefs.

Red colored cross on a white background was symbol originated in 1864 in Geneva Convention, must be recognized as a protection symbol in conflict.

Facts and Figures of World Red Cross Day

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a private institution founded in 1863 in Geneva, Switzerland.

International Committee of the Red Cross consists of 25 members and Red Cross committee authorized and empowered to protect the life and dignity of the victims of national and international war or conflicts, under international human rights law.

Red Crescent Societies works in collaboration with World Red Cross today to coordinates activities within the Movement.

National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies exist in almost every country of the world today. Presently, there are 186 National Societies, recognized by the ICRC.

Most of these societies are using the Red Cross as their official organization emblem.

Presently, the world Red Cross is working with other Red Cross societies to improve miserable conditions in developing nations.

They are reconnecting families separated by emergencies.

To help the victims of the national and international conflicts and other disasters we can make our financial contributions to the American Red Cross International Response Fund by calling 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575.

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EVENTS: World Asthma Day – Objectives, Facts, Ideas on World Asthma Day Celebrations.

When it is celebrated

World Asthma Day is observed on the first Tuesday in the month of May.

Why it is celebrated

The day is organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to improve asthma awareness and care around the world.

The other participant organizers are World Health Organization and US National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

Every year on the day GINA selects a theme and systematizes preparation and distribution of World Asthma Day materials and resources.

Many activities are organized all over the world by health care professionals, educators, and general public who want to actively participate on the World Asthma Day.

Initiation

The World Asthma Day was celebrated for the first time in 1998 in many countries. It was in concurrence with the first World Asthma Meeting.

The meeting was held in Barcelona, Spain in 1998.

Since, then participation has augmented on each World Asthma Day and the day has become one of the most important asthma awareness and attention paying event in the world.

2008 Celebration

This year World Asthma Day 2008 will be held on Tuesday, May 6. This year the focus will be on the positive theme and idea that is: “You Can Control Your Asthma.”

This theme is chosen as it is unfailing with the emphasis on asthma control.

This latest GINA guideline will help to spread the word that “asthma control” should be the goal of treatment and it can be achieved in the majority of asthma patients with appropriate management.

Objectives of celebrations

The primary objective is to create awareness of the disease, its proper care, preventive measures amongst the general public, health care providers, workers as well as government officials.

There are a huge number of people who suffer from asthma and its sudden attacks.

So to prevent these fatal attacks and lessen the pain and sufferings of the asthma patients as well as their family members by providing the best available medical help is the primary goal of the day.