The United Nations’ (UN) International Day of Non-Violence is observed annually across the globe on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian Independence Movement, who is celebrated for his philosophy of non-violence and peace.
- 2nd October 2024 is the 155th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and 18th International Day of Non-Violence.
- This day is observed alongside Swachh Bharat Diwas, a campaign that resonates with Gandhi’s principle of cleanliness as vital to nation-building.
Note: In India, October 2 is observed as “Gandhi Jayanti”.
Background:
i.The day was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) through resolution A/RES/61/271 on June 15, 2007, following a proposal by Iranian Nobel Laureate Shirin Ebadi in June 2004.
- The day was first observed on 2nd October 2007.
ii.The day also reinforces a vital message- Say No to Violence. In a time marked by conflict and division, the principles of peace and non-violence are more relevant than ever.
About Mahatma Gandhi and His Philosophy of Non-Violence :
i.Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India, was a leader whose impact on both India and the world is profound and enduring.
- Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar(Gujarat), Mahatma Gandhi studied law in London,the United Kingdom(UK) before becoming a prominent figure in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
ii.His philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth became the cornerstone of his activism.
iii.He believed that true power lies in peaceful resistance and reinforced the idea that lasting change is achieved through understanding, compassion, and respect for all humanity.
Related Initiatives:
i.The Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2024 campaign took place from September 17 to October 1, 2024, with the theme “Swabhav Swachhata, Sanskaar Swachhata” (Cleanliness from Within, Cleanliness in Values).
- It concluded on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, which also marked the 10th anniversary of the Swachh Bharat Mission.
ii.As part of the campaign, on September 11, 2024, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, inaugurated a special railway coach dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat, Delhi.
- This coach, donated by the Ministry of Railways(MoR), has been carefully restored to reflect the era of Mahatma Gandhi.
