Daily Current Affairs Notes for 25 March 2023

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members 2023:

March 25th is annually designated by the United Nations as the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members in commemoration of Alec Collett, a journalist who lost his life while on a UN mission after being abducted. The primary aim of this day is to recognize the vital role played by UN personnel in carrying out humanitarian work, and the dangers they face while doing so. Additionally, the occasion serves as a reminder to honor the memories of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the UN.

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members: Significance

The importance of the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members lies in its recognition of the crucial humanitarian work carried out by UN personnel in some of the most perilous regions worldwide. This day serves as a testament to the dedication and courage exhibited by UN staff members who put their lives on the line to fulfill their missions. Moreover, it emphasizes the significance of safeguarding the safety and welfare of UN personnel, highlighting their sacrifices and the risks they undertake on behalf of the global community.

International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members: History

In 1993, the United Nations (UN) established the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members to acknowledge the efforts of UN personnel who have been detained, kidnapped, or have disappeared while carrying out their duties for the organization. The day's selection on March 25th honors the memory of Alec Collett, a previous journalist and UN staff member, who was abducted in 1985 while working for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Collett was held captive for over six years before his death in 1991, and the date was chosen to commemorate his abduction.

The UN has utilized the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members to promote awareness of the hazards faced by its personnel and to campaign for their protection and welfare. Additionally, the day serves as a tribute to the bravery of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their duties, and as a display of solidarity with their families and loved ones. Annually, the UN Secretary-General issues a statement to honor those who have been detained or have disappeared and to urge for their secure release and return.

Pradeep Sarkar, a celebrated filmmaker recognized for his directorial accomplishments in movies like Parineeta and Mardaani, has passed away at the age of 67. Sarkar's directing career commenced with the 2005 film Parineeta, starring Vidya Balan, which became a box office hit. He continued to direct other well-received movies such as Laga Chunari Mein Daag, Helicopter Eela, and Lafangey Parindey. Furthermore, Sarkar directed several web series, including Coldd Lassi Aur Chicken Masala, Arranged Marriage And Forbidden Love, and Duranga. For his contributions to the film industry, Sarkar received various honors, including the Filmfare Award for Best Art Direction and Zee Cine Award for Most Promising Director for Parineeta in 2005 and the Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director in 2006.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (illustrated)

Renowned Marathi author and historian, Shrimant Kokate, has published his first English book, "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (illustrated)," which has been translated by Dilip Chavan. The book was launched by Amol Kolhe, a popular Member of Parliament and actor well-known for his roles as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj in Marathi TV series. Kokate is celebrated for his four books on Shivaji, which have garnered critical acclaim and have been widely read. He has authored a total of ten books on a diverse range of subjects.

The Essence of the book:

According to the author, Shrimant Kokate, the recently published book focuses on how Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Maratha king, took care of his subjects' interests. Shivaji ensured the farmers' happiness and prohibited anyone from disturbing their haystacks. He also provided assistance to drought-affected farmers by offering them zero-interest financial aid. The book also sheds light on Shivaji's non-discriminatory rule. The first twenty-five chapters provide a historical context of Shivaji's upbringing by his revolutionary parents, Jijau and Shahajiraje, who instilled noble values in him. The second half of the book features pictorial examples of how Shivaji's work impacted various aspects of Indian society, including social, cultural, political, and educational spheres, and how his life inspired a revolution.