Children’s Day is celebrated to honor and appreciate children, recognize their rights, and promote their well-being. The history of Children’s Day is connected to different events across the world, but in India, it has a special significance.
1. International History
- The idea of a day dedicated to children began in the early 20th century.
- In 1925, the World Conference on Child Welfare declared June 1 as International Children’s Day.
- Later, in 1954, the United Nations declared November 20 as Universal Children’s Day to promote international togetherness and children’s welfare.
- This date also marks:
- The adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child (1959)
- The adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)
2. Children’s Day in India
- In India, Children’s Day is celebrated on 14 November every year.
- This day is the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India.
- Nehru was very fond of children and believed that children are the real strength and future of the nation.
- Children lovingly called him “Chacha Nehru.”
- After his death in 1964, the Indian government decided to celebrate his birthday as Children’s Day.
3. Why Children’s Day is celebrated
- To spread awareness about child rights, education, and health.
- To remind society that children need love, care, and protection.
- To encourage activities that help in the overall development of children.