October is an important month for competitive exams, with several national and international observances related to peace, education, health, wildlife, food security, and human rights. The month also includes major Indian festivals such as Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, and Navratri.
International & Global Observances
October 1 – International Day of Older Persons
International Day of Older Persons highlights the contributions of older people to society and raises awareness about the challenges they face.
October 1 – International Coffee Day
International Coffee Day celebrates coffee and recognises the contribution of coffee farmers, workers, and others involved in the coffee industry.
October 2 – International Day of Non-Violence
International Day of Non-Violence is observed on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi (October 2, 1869). Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, and the day is observed to promote his principle of non-violence.
October 4 to 10 – World Space Week
World Space Week highlights the contribution of space science and technology to improving people’s lives. It also encourages interest in space exploration, science, and technology.
October 5 – World Teachers’ Day
World Teachers’ Day recognises the contribution of teachers to education and society. It also highlights the importance of supporting teachers and improving the teaching profession.
October 7 – World Cotton Day
World Cotton Day highlights the importance of cotton to farmers, workers, and economies around the world.
October 9 – World Post Day
World Post Day marks the anniversary of the founding of the Universal Postal Union in 1874.
October 9 – World Migratory Bird Day
World Migratory Bird Day raises awareness about migratory birds and the need to protect their habitats and migration routes.
October 10 – World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day raises awareness about mental health issues and promotes greater understanding, prevention, and support for mental health.
October 11 – International Day of the Girl Child
International Day of the Girl Child highlights the rights, needs, and challenges faced by girls around the world.
October 13 – International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
This day promotes awareness about reducing disaster risks and building safer and more resilient communities.
October 15 – Global Handwashing Day
Global Handwashing Day is observed to promote the importance of handwashing with soap as a simple way to prevent diseases and improve public health.
October 15 – International Day of Rural Women
International Day of Rural Women recognises the important role of women in rural communities.
October 16 – World Food Day
World Food Day is observed on October 16, the founding day of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945. The FAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that works to combat hunger and improve food and agriculture systems.
October 17 – International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
This day raises awareness about poverty and promotes efforts to end poverty and social exclusion around the world.
October 23 – International Day of the Snow Leopard
International Day of the Snow Leopard raises awareness about protecting snow leopards and their natural habitats.
October 24 – United Nations Day
United Nations Day marks the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945 and highlights the work of the United Nations in promoting peace, cooperation, and development.
October 24 – World Development Information Day
World Development Information Day highlights the importance of information and communication in creating awareness about development issues and international cooperation.
October 27 – World Day for Audiovisual Heritage
This day highlights the importance of preserving audiovisual materials such as films, recordings, and television programmes as part of the world’s cultural heritage.
October 29 – International Day of Care and Support
International Day of Care and Support highlights the importance of care work and support services.
October 31 – World Cities Day
World Cities Day promotes awareness about urbanisation and encourages international cooperation to address challenges faced by cities.
Important National Days (India)
October 2 – Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s freedom movement. It is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence.
October 8 – Indian Air Force Day
Indian Air Force Day is observed on October 8, marking the establishment of the Indian Air Force in 1932. The IAF was initially established as the Royal Indian Air Force and was renamed the Indian Air Force after India became a republic.
October 21 – Police Commemoration Day
Police Commemoration Day honours police personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The day commemorates the sacrifice of police personnel during the 1959 Hot Springs incident in Ladakh.
October 31 – National Unity Day
National Unity Day, or Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, is observed in memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who died on December 15, 1950. It promotes national unity, integrity, and solidarity.
Festivals & Cultural Events 2026
October 11 – Navratri Begins
Navratri is a nine-night Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and her different forms.
October 20 – Dussehra / Vijayadashami
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, celebrates the victory of good over evil.
October 26 – Valmiki Jayanti
Valmiki Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, traditionally regarded as the author of the Ramayana.