On which date is World Press Freedom Day observed each year to highlight the importance of a free and independent media?

Introduction / Context:
This question is from international days and observances. World Press Freedom Day is an important date marked by the United Nations and UNESCO to draw attention to the role of free, independent and pluralistic media in democratic societies. Examinations often ask the exact date of such observances.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The day is called World Press Freedom Day.
• It is observed every year.
• The question asks for the specific calendar date.
• The options list different days linked to other events and observances.

Concept / Approach:
World Press Freedom Day is observed on 3 May. It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly following a recommendation from UNESCO. The date marks the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, which was adopted by African journalists in 1991 and called for free and pluralistic media. Other dates in the options correspond to different international days such as Human Rights Day or Labour Day, but not to press freedom.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the list of major UN observances and their dates. Step 2: Recognise that 3 May is associated specifically with press freedom and media independence. Step 3: Understand that 10 December is Human Rights Day, 1 May is International Workers Day or Labour Day in many countries, 21 June is International Day of Yoga, and 15 August is Indian Independence Day. Step 4: Since only 3 May corresponds to World Press Freedom Day, select Option A.

Verification / Alternative check:
UNESCO and United Nations calendars of observances clearly list World Press Freedom Day on 3 May each year. Annual themes and global events celebrating press freedom are scheduled on that date. Quick cross checks with any reliable list of international days will show the same information, confirming that 3 May is correct.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
10 December is observed as Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, not specifically as Press Freedom Day. 1 May is widely recognised as International Workers Day or Labour Day, focused on labour rights rather than media freedom. 21 June is observed as the International Day of Yoga, particularly highlighted by India and the United Nations from 2015 onward. 15 August is celebrated as Independence Day in India and is not related to global press freedom observances.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse different UN days due to the large number of observances. Memorising them in small groups by theme, such as environment, health, human rights and media, can help. For press freedom, always associate 3 May with the Windhoek Declaration and global discussions on protecting journalists and independent media.

Final Answer:
World Press Freedom Day is observed every year on 3 May.