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October 16 -World Food Day
World Food Day is observed every year on 16th October. The origin of this day is credited to launching of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in 1945. The member countries of FAO first presented the idea of World Food Day in November 1979. During the 20th General Conference, the Hungarian delegation rooted for celebrating World Food Day (WFD) across the world. The idea was accepted immediately and since then more than 150 nations observe WFD on October 16. The day aims at raising awareness of the issues behind hunger and poverty. In order to highlight areas that demand urgent actions, World Food Day is based on a particular theme every year. This practice is in vogue since 1981.
According to one estimate, there are more than 1 billon malnourished individuals in the world. That makes it almost one sixth of the entire world population. This piece of stats is a black mark on the advancements and achievements we have made so far. It’s ironic that despite the progress we have made in every walk of life, one billion people are still deprived of proper food. This definitely demands more actions from all the countries. Considering the emphasis on manufacturing and service sectors, agricultural output has also shown a drastic reduction in many developing countries. Though, more than half population of the world is living on agricultural income, this sector is starved of investment.
On World Food Day, many events are organized in various parts of the world. The biggest program is held at the FAO's headquarters in Rome, Italy. The program brings the attention of the world leaders and media on topical issues around food supply. Some of the other programs organized on this day are presentations, workshops, seminars and symposia highlighting particular issues around food production, distribution and security. Different functions are also organized to raise awareness and to collect funds to support projects to aid in the cultivation of food plants and the distribution of food. Fundraising events are also conducted.
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