Important Days 02 October 2026
International Day of Non-Violence 2026: Commemorating the 157th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
Why in the News?
The International Day of Non-Violence is observed globally on October 2, 2026, marking the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
Key Features / Major Points:
Overview and Significance:
Date: Friday, October 2, 2026.
Established By: United Nations General Assembly via Resolution A/RES/61/271 on June 15, 2007.
Core Purpose: Disseminate the message of non-violence, foster a culture of peace, tolerance, and understanding, and promote public awareness through education.
Symbol: The "Knotted Gun" sculpture (Non-Violence) by Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd located at the UN Headquarters Visitors' Plaza in New York.
2026 Observance Highlights:
UN Commemoration: The Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations organized a special commemorative session at UN Headquarters emphasizing dialogue, human rights education, and peace.
Global Leadership Messages: UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted the critical importance of Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance in confronting modern global conflicts, poverty, and rising social inequalities.
National Observance in India: India marked the day as Gandhi Jayanti with national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, paying floral tributes at Rajghat in New Delhi.
Static GK Facts:
International Day of Non-Violence First Observed: 2007 (by the United Nations)
Birth Date of Mahatma Gandhi: October 2, 1869 (Porbandar, Gujarat)
UN Headquarters: New York, United States
Current UN Secretary-General: António Guterres
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: On which date is the International Day of Non-Violence observed globally?
A: October 2
Q: In which year did the UN General Assembly adopt the resolution to observe the International Day of Non-Violence?
A: 2007
Q: What is the official symbol of non-violence located at the UN Headquarters Visitors' Plaza?
A: The "Knotted Gun" sculpture
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