Why February 24 is a Special Day In India and the World?

February 24 is not just another date on the calendar. It connects wars, cricket history, political reforms, global leaders, and even the calendar you follow today. In India, it marks Central Excise Day and major political developments. In world history, it changed empires, sparked wars, and gave birth to icons like Steve Jobs. February 24, 2026, is once again making headlines.

What Makes February 24, 2026 Important Today

Today is Tuesday, February 24, 2026. And it is already active with big events.

In New Delhi, the Election Commission of India is hosting a rare National Round Table Conference with State Election Commissioners. The last time such a large meeting happened was in 1999. This summit focuses on electoral reforms, digital systems like ECINET, and cleaning up voter rolls. It sounds technical, but it shapes how India votes.

Global markets are also watching the United States. A major tariff policy linked to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act has been paused after a Supreme Court ruling. This move may help Indian textile and leather exporters. The jewellery sector may feel some pressure though. Markets react fast. Policies matter.

Cricket fans are tuned in to The Gabba in Brisbane. India Women face Australia Women in the first ODI after winning a T20 series. It is high intensity cricket. Rivalry never feels small between these two.

In Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh legislators begin a three-day sports event. MLAs and MLCs playing together. It is about bonding, not politics.

So yes, February 24 is alive. Not just history. Real action.

Central Excise Day in India

Every year, India observes Central Excise Day on February 24. It marks the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act of 1944.

This law shaped indirect taxation in India. Today, excise duty remains an important revenue source, though GST changed much of the structure.

The day honours officers of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs. These officers collect revenue that funds highways, railways, health schemes, and welfare programs. It is quiet work. But it keeps the economy running.

Seminars are held. Officers are awarded. Digital tax systems are discussed. Faceless assessment is now common. Ease of Doing Business is the focus.

Most people may not celebrate it loudly. Still, it plays a role in everyday life.

The Battle That Shook India

On February 24, 1739, the Battle of Karnal changed India’s political future. Nader Shah of Persia defeated Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah in just a few hours.

The Mughal Empire never truly recovered. Soon after, Delhi was looted. The Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-Noor diamond were taken away.

Empires fall fast sometimes. That day proved it.

Sachin’s 200: A Cricket Milestone

On February 24, 2010, in Gwalior, Sachin Tendulkar scored the first double century in men’s ODI cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar reached 200 not out against South Africa in 147 balls. The barrier of 200 in 50 overs felt impossible before that. He broke it calmly.

Fans still remember the roar. It was not just a record. It felt personal for millions.

The Loss of Sridevi

On February 24, 2018, India woke up to shocking news. Actress Sridevi had passed away in Dubai.

Sridevi was often called India’s first female superstar. Her career stretched decades. Her sudden death felt unreal to fans.

Even years later, February 24 brings that memory back.

A Temple That Became a Global Symbol

In 1822, the first Swaminarayan temple was inaugurated in Ahmedabad. It became a spiritual centre for followers worldwide.

Religious milestones also shape dates. February 24 carries that quiet spiritual weight too.

When War Began in Europe

On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war reshaped Europe.

Energy prices spiked. Refugees fled. Global alliances shifted. Even countries far away felt economic effects.

That single morning changed geopolitics.

The Day the Nazi Party Emerged

On February 24, 1920, Adolf Hitler announced the 25-Point Program in Munich. It marked the formal foundation of the Nazi Party.

History remembers what followed. World War II. The Holocaust. Millions of lives lost.

Some dates remind us what must never repeat.

The Calendar You Use Today

On February 24, 1582, Pope Gregory XIII issued a reform that created the Gregorian calendar.

Yes, the same calendar you see on your phone. Without that change, dates would slowly drift away from seasons.

Time itself got corrected.

First US Presidential Impeachment

On this day in 1868, the US House impeached President Andrew Johnson. It was the first presidential impeachment in American history.

Politics has always been dramatic. Even back then.

Famous Birthdays on February 24

Steve Jobs was born on February 24, 1955. The Apple co-founder reshaped technology, phones, music, and design thinking.

J. Jayalalithaa, born in 1948, became one of Tamil Nadu’s most powerful Chief Ministers. Actress turned political leader. Strong presence.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali, born in 1963, brought cinematic grandeur to Indian films.

Ibn Battuta, born in 1304, travelled across continents for 30 years.

Wilhelm Grimm, born in 1786, helped preserve fairy tales loved by children even now.

So many lives began on this one date.

Global Observances

Estonia celebrates Independence Day on February 24. It marks freedom declared in 1918.

Mexico observes Flag Day. A tribute to national identity.

Romania celebrates Dragobete, their traditional day of love and spring.

Different cultures. Same date.

Why February 24 Truly Matters

February 24 feels like a bridge. Between empires and smartphones. Between cricket stadiums and war zones. Between tax officers and tech visionaries.

On February 24, 2026, India focuses on electoral reform and economic shifts. The world continues to adjust to policies and politics shaped by this date in past years.

It is a reminder that dates are not empty boxes. They carry stories. Some joyful. Some painful. Some inspiring.

And when you look at the calendar again, you might pause a second longer at February 24.