November 21: World Television Day

World Television Day is observed on November 21 across the globe, to highlight the importance of television beyond an electronic tool. The day is not about celebrating the tool, but rather the philosophy represented by Television.

Significance of Television

• Since its invention, Television has been one of the most significant sources of entertainment.
• It has also been an important tool for educating and informing people, equally.
• During 80s, television helped in uniting India because many people used to gather in front of a single screen to watch iconic TV shows like Buniyaad, Hum Log, Ramayan, and Mahabharat.
• As per United Nations (UN), Television represents a symbol of globalisation and communication in contemporary world.

Commemoration of the day

The decision to observe World Television Day on November 21 every year was taken by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), in order to recognise the “increasing impact of television on decision-making by bringing attention of the world to conflicts & threats to peace & security. It also recognises its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, like economic and social issues.

History World Television Day

United Nations had held first World Television Forum in November 1996. Leading media personalities took part in the forum, where they discussed growing significance of television worldwide. Following this, UNGA decided to observe November 21 as World Television Day.

Who invented TV?

Television was invented in 1924 by a Scottish engineer, John Logie Baird. In India, Television was introduced with the assistance of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) on September 15, 1959, in New Delhi.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2021