International Mine Awareness Day

International Mine Awareness Day is a crucial global observance, designated by the United Nations to underscore the dangers of landmines and promote progress in their eradication. It aims to foster understanding about the serious and often hidden human security, humanitarian, and socio-economic implications attached to landmines and explosive remnants of war. The day is about reaffirming commitments towards ending the suffering caused by landmines and assisting survivors to lead wholesome, productive lives.

The inception of International Mine Awareness Day, marked on April 4 each year, dates back to December 2005 when the United Nations General Assembly formally established it. For India, a country that shares heavily-mined border areas with its neighbours, this day holds significant relevance. In conflict-infested regions like Jammu and Kashmir, and Punjab, people continue to face dire threats from unexploded ordnance and minefields. It underlines the urgent need for mine clearance, victim assistance, mine risk education and the development of national mine-action capacities.

In India, International Mine Awareness Day is observed by organising awareness programmes, exhibitions, and demonstrations. These initiatives typically involve NGOs, government agencies, and community members and are aimed at educating people about the risks of landmines and the importance of their eradication for community safety and development. While the government is taking measures for mine clearance on the borders, steps towards providing assistance to victims and creating a mine risk awareness among the vulnerable populations have gained momentum. These efforts towards making India a mine-safe country retell the raison d'être of International Mine Awareness Day marked every year on April 4.