National Safety Day (NSD) is observed annually on 4 March across India to emphasize the importance of safety measures in preventing workplace accidents. The day also promotes a culture of safety in workplaces, encouraging strict adherence to safety guidelines.
- 4 March also marks the commencement of the ‘National Safety Week Campaign’, which is annually observed across India from 4-10 March.
- 4 March 2025 marks the observance of the 54th National Safety Day/National Safety Week Campaign.
Theme 2025:
i.The theme for NSD 2025 is “Safety & Well-being Crucial for Viksit Bharat,” aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ underscoring the role of safety in India’s developmental goals.
ii.This theme highlights the significance of maintaining a safe and healthy environment as a cornerstone of national progress and development.
Background:
i.The origins of NSD trace back to 1966, when the National Safety Council (NSC) of India was established under the Ministry of Labour and Employment (MoL&E).
ii.In 1972, the NSC designated 4th March as National Safety Day, initiating a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about safety standards and practices.
- The first-ever National Safety Day was observed in 1972.
iii.Since its inception, National Safety Day has played a pivotal role in promoting the Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) movement in India
Note: The Diamond Jubilee Year of NSD commences from 4th March 2025.
Note: In 2000, the NSC was registered legally as a public trust under the Bombay Public Trust Act (BPTA) of 1950, further solidifying its commitment to promoting safety and health in India. It is also registered under the Societies Registration Act (SRA) of 1860.
National Safety Week Campaign:
i.In 1986 building on the momentum of NSD, the NSC expanded the observance to a week-long campaign, known as National Safety Week (NSW), to promote safety awareness in all sectors.
ii.The initiative aims to enhance the understanding and implementation of safety protocols across workplaces, ensuring a deeper commitment to safety.
iii.The campaign focuses on raising safety awareness among employees across all sectors, fostering safer work environments and promoting safety practices.
iv.The National Safety Week Campaign has become an integral part of industries, trade unions, government bodies, regulatory agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations(NGOs), and institutions.
v.It was actively supported by Central and State Governments and the media, evolved into a national movement for safety.
About National Safety Council (NSC):
Director-General (DG)– Dr. Lalit R Gabhane
Headquarters– Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra
Established– 1966