In India, Anti-Terrorism Day is observed every year on which date?

Introduction / Context:
This question checks awareness of Anti Terrorism Day in India, a national observance that aims to promote peace and to oppose terrorism and violence. The date is closely associated with a major event in Indian political history, so it is a favourite topic in general knowledge examinations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The observance is Anti Terrorism Day in India.
• It is held annually on a fixed calendar date.
• The options provide several dates in May that are close to each other.

Concept / Approach:
Anti Terrorism Day in India is marked in memory of the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The approach is:

• Recall that Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on 21st May 1991.
• Know that the Government of India chose this date as Anti Terrorism Day.
• Select 21st May from among the options and reject other nearby dates.

This way, the date is firmly anchored to an important historical event, making it easier to remember.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that Anti Terrorism Day is linked with the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Step 2: Recall that he was assassinated on 21st May 1991. Step 3: Understand that to honour his memory and to spread awareness against terrorism, 21st May is observed as Anti Terrorism Day every year. Step 4: Look at the options and locate 21st May. Step 5: Confirm that other dates like 20th, 22nd, 23rd and 24th May do not correspond to this observance.

Verification / Alternative check:
Verification can be done using official government circulars, Ministry of Home Affairs notifications, and standard yearbooks. They clearly state that 21st May is observed as Anti Terrorism Day across India, often with pledge taking ceremonies in government offices and educational institutions. Media reports on that date also repeatedly refer to Anti Terrorism Day and the remembrance of Rajiv Gandhi, which reinforces the link between the date and the observance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
23rd May: A nearby date but not the official day designated for this observance. 22nd May: Also incorrect; it is included as a distractor to test precise memory. 24th May: Not associated with Anti Terrorism Day in India. 20th May: One day before the actual date and therefore incorrect.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent error is to pick a date one or two days away from 21st May because candidates remember only that the day falls around that period. Others may confuse Anti Terrorism Day with other safety or remembrance observances. To avoid this, it helps to memorise a simple association: 21st May marks the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi and is observed as Anti Terrorism Day in India.

Final Answer:
In India, Anti Terrorism Day is observed every year on 21st May.