World Telecommunication Day 2025, officially known as World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) is observed annually on May 17. This global event aims to raise awareness about the potential of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) in transforming societies and economies. The day also underscores the critical need to bridge the global digital divide, making digital innovation inclusive and accessible for all.
The roots of World Telecommunication Day date back to May 17, 1865, when the first International Telegraph Convention was signed in Paris, leading to the establishment of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Since 1969, this day has been observed annually to commemorate ITU's foundation and its continuing contributions to global connectivity.
The World Telecommunication Day 2025 theme is "Gender Equality in Digital Transformation"
May 16, 2025
Sikkim Celebrates 50th Statehood Day
Sikkim marked its golden jubilee as the 22nd state of India with a day-long celebration steeped in pride, culture and a renewed commitment to sustainable progress. Sikkim Statehood Day commemorates the historic moment on May 16, 1975 when the former Kingdom of Sikkim officially became the 22nd state of the Indian Union.
National Endangered Species Day (Third Friday)
Every year, National Endangered Species Day is observed on the third Friday of the month of May.
In the year 2006, David Robinson and the Endangered Species Coalition established National Endangered Species Day to be observed every year to urge people to contribute to the safety and protection of endangered species.
In 2025, it was observed on May 16.
National Dengue Day
Every year, National Dengue Day is observed on May 16 across India to raise awareness about dengue fever and promote preventive measures against this mosquito-borne viral disease. Led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Dengue Day serves as a critical reminder of the need for community engagement, proactive healthcare measures, and strong public health infrastructure to combat dengue fever effectively.
International Day of Light
International Day of Light (IDL) is celebrated on 16 May each year, on the anniversary of the first successful laser surgery in 1960 by physicist and engineer Theodore Maiman. The study of light has led to promising alternative energy sources, lifesaving medical advances in diagnostics technology and treatments, light-speed internet and many other discoveries that have revolutionised society and shaped our understanding of the universe.
The origin of the International Day of Light can be traced back to 2015, when the United Nations observed the International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies (IYL 2015) to raise awareness of the achievements of light science and its applications worldwide.
Following the success of IYL 2015, the UNESCO Executive Board adopted a resolution that supported the notion of an International Day of Light on September 19, 2016. The first-ever IDL was held on May 16, 2018.
The theme for International Day of Light 2025 is 'Light, Innovation, Society.'
May 15, 2025
National Dengue Day
Every year, National Dengue Day is observed on May 16 across India to raise awareness about dengue fever and promote preventive measures against this mosquito-borne viral disease. Led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Dengue Day serves as a critical reminder of the need for community engagement, proactive healthcare measures, and strong public health infrastructure to combat dengue fever effectively.
May 14, 2025
Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Jayanti
On May 14, India celebrates the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, a brave and inspiring leader of the Maratha Empire. He was the eldest son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Sambhaji Maharaj is remembered for his courage, leadership and sacrifice for his people and kingdom.
After Shivaji Maharaj passed away in 1680, Sambhaji became the ruler of the Maratha Empire in 1681. He ruled until 1689. His reign was full of wars and battles, but he worked hard to make the empire strong. Sambhaji was not only a brave fighter, but also a very educated person who knew many languages.
May 13, 2025
The 8th UN Global Road Safety Week 2025
The 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week is being observed from May 12 to 18, 2025. This global campaign aims to encourage safer urban infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists and calls upon governments and communities to implement proven measures to reduce road traffic injuries and fatalities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners are organising the 8th edition of the UN Global Road Safety Week in May 2025, focusing on pedestrian and cyclist safety. The initiative aims to address the rising number of deaths and injuries caused by unsafe road conditions and motorist behaviours.