National Anti-Terrorism Day 2023

India celebrates Anti-Terrorism Day every year on May 21. On this day, former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in a terrorist attack, so to commemorate the man’s death anniversary National Anti-Terrorism Day is celebrated. But that is not the only reason. The day also acts as a reminder to people to fight against terrorist practices and strive for a world of peace and harmony. Learn about more aspects of National Anti-terrorism Day. 

History of National Anti-Terrorism Day 

It was in 1991 when the former seventh Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi, was assassinated and killed in a terrorist campaign in Tamil Nadu. As a result of this India faced a sudden and huge shock, which prompted the then government, under V.P. Singh to officially announce National Anti-Terrorism Day on May 21. 

The Pledge 

Additionally, there is a pledge that is proposed to be taken in all government centers, offices, public institutions, and public sector undertakings. You can find the pledge below along with the ‘Observance of National Anti-Terrorism Day’ PDF, signed by the Joint Secretary to the Government of India, below. 

Source: Government of India PDF

Objective of National Anti-Terrorism Day 

The main objective of National Anti-Terrorism Day is to make a clear stand against all acts of terrorist actions in the country. It is to also spread awareness about the anti-social acts of terrorism; while promoting a world of harmony, brotherhood, peace, unity, and humanity. 

As terrorism and all its forms and manifestations not only pose a threat to the safety of citizens but also targets international prosperity and peace and stability, National Anti-Terrorism Day plays an important role to serve as a reminder to everyone in the country of the country’s tradition of non-violence and tradition. It is important to note that this global threat persists beyond borders, and can manifest beyond any religion or race, or gender. Therefore, there is a need for the international community to take a stand to tackle this challenge on this day.  

Celebrating National Anti-Terrorism Day 

How is National Anti-Terrorism Day observed in the country? The following are some examples: 

1. Seminars, discussions, and debates are held at the national and state level to combat terrorism. 
2. An official pledge is taken to promote unity and national tolerance. 
3. Moreover, schools and organizations and many people also conduct ceremonies to take pledges and observe a two-minute silence at 10 a.m. on May 21 to pay respect to those who lost their lives to terrorism. 
4. Social media campaigns are also conducted at various scales to spread awareness and motive people to participate in the discourse and take a stand against it. 
5. Another form of solidarity is shown through Candlelight vigils. 

Major Terrorist Attacks in India 

Some of the major terrorist attacks that shook India are mentioned below. 

FAQs 

That was all about National Anti-Terrorism Day in India, celebrated on May 21. For more informative blogs, you can Discover our Leverage Edu blogs!