Harshvardhan Mishra
February may be the shortest month of the year, but it is packed with meaning. In 2026, the month brings together global conversations on science, health, language, equality, environment, digital safety, and social justice, while also marking several important national observances in India.
Whether you follow these dates for competitive exams, academic preparation, awareness campaigns, content planning, or general knowledge, having a clear, date-wise calendar helps you stay organised and informed.
Here is a complete and easy-to-follow February 2026 calendar, covering national days, international observances, and key awareness events.
February 1–7: Awareness, Inclusion, and Global Responsibility
The first week of February sets the tone with observances centred on public service, environmental protection, health awareness, and human rights.
- February 1
- Indian Coast Guard Day – Recognises the role of the Indian Coast Guard in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
- World Hijab Day – Focuses on choice, inclusion, and religious freedom.
- Global School Play Day – Highlights the importance of unstructured play in childhood development.
- February 2
- World Wetlands Day – Raises awareness about wetlands and their role in biodiversity, water conservation, and climate stability.
- February 4
- World Cancer Day – Emphasises cancer awareness, prevention, early detection, and equitable access to treatment.
- February 5
- World Pulses Day – Highlights the nutritional, environmental, and agricultural importance of pulses, especially relevant for food security in India.
- February 6
- International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation – Addresses a critical human rights issue through education, advocacy, and global action.
February 8–14: Digital Safety, Science, and Human Connection
The second week draws attention to digital responsibility, scientific inclusion, communication, and relationships.
- February 10
- Safer Internet Day – Promotes responsible online behaviour, digital literacy, and cybersecurity awareness.
- February 11
- International Day of Women and Girls in Science – Encourages gender equality and increased participation of women in STEM fields.
- February 12
- International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism – Focuses on long-term prevention through education, dialogue, and inclusion.
- February 13
- World Radio Day – Celebrates radio as a trusted, accessible, and powerful medium of communication.
- February 14
- Valentine’s Day – Observed globally as a day celebrating relationships, connection, and expressions of affection.
February 15–21: Identity, Justice, and Cultural Memory
This week highlights history, language, identity, neurodiversity, and social equality.
- February 18
- World Asperger’s Day – Promotes awareness and understanding of Asperger’s syndrome and neurodiversity.
- February 19
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti – Commemorates the birth and legacy of the Maratha ruler, a significant national observance in India.
- World Anthropology Day (2026) – Encourages reflection on human cultures, societies, and evolution.
- February 20
- World Day of Social Justice – Focuses on equality, fair employment, social protection, and inclusive development.
- February 21
- International Mother Language Day – Celebrates linguistic diversity and promotes the preservation of native languages.
February 22–28: Service, Knowledge, and Scientific Thinking
The final week of February emphasises civic responsibility, global service, science, and humanitarian efforts.
- February 22
- World Thinking Day – Observed by Scouts and Guides worldwide, promoting leadership, global awareness, and social responsibility.
- February 23
- World Peace and Understanding Day – Marks the founding of Rotary International and promotes global peace and cooperation.
- February 24
- Central Excise Day – Recognises the contribution of India’s indirect tax administration to economic governance.
- February 27
- World NGO Day – Acknowledges the role of non-governmental organisations in social development, humanitarian aid, and advocacy.
- February 28
- National Science Day (India) – Commemorates the discovery of the Raman Effect and celebrates scientific temper and innovation.
- Rare Disease Day – Observed on the last day of February to raise awareness about rare diseases and patient challenges.
Why February 2026 Matters
February 2026 shows how even a brief month can carry deep relevance across science, society, culture, and public awareness. These observances create opportunities to reflect, learn, educate, and engage with issues that shape communities both locally and globally.
Whether you are a student, educator, content creator, policy observer, or simply a curious reader, this calendar is a reminder that significance is often found in small windows of time—if we choose to pay attention.
