Historically, March 16 serves as a reminder of India’s progress in public health and social justice. In 1995, the Government of India launched the Pulse Polio initiative, a massive public health campaign that eventually led to the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring India polio-free in 2014. Beyond health, the date is anchored by significant military victories in the Mughal era and modern sporting milestones that redefined cricket history.

Significant Historical Milestones

• National Vaccination Day (Pulse Polio Launch, 1995): On this day in 1995, the first dose of an oral polio vaccine was administered in India. This campaign became one of the largest public health successes globally, mobilizing millions of health workers to protect children under five.

• The Battle of Khanwa (1527): Mughal Emperor Babur defeated the Rajput forces led by Rana Sanga of Mewar near Fatehpur Sikri. This victory consolidated Mughal power in Northern India and marked a decisive shift in the subcontinent's political landscape.

• Treaty of Amritsar (1846): Signed following the First Anglo-Sikh War, this treaty formalised the sale of Kashmir by the British East India Company to Gulab Singh of Jammu for 7.5 million Nanakshahee rupees, establishing the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

• Dalit Rights Victory (1937): The Bombay High Court ruled in favor of Dalits, upholding their right to drink water from the Chavdar Lake in Mahad. This was a significant legal victory following the Mahad Satyagraha led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1927.

• Sachin’s 100th Century (2012): Sachin Tendulkar became the first and only cricketer to score 100 international centuries, achieving the feat against Bangladesh during the Asia Cup in Mirpur.

Notable Birthdays on March 16

• General Bipin Rawat (1958): India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the 27th Chief of Army Staff. He was a visionary military leader who spearheaded the integration of India's three armed services.

• Maharana Amar Singh I (1559): The eldest son and successor of Maharana Pratap, known for his long-standing resistance against the Mughal Empire before eventually negotiating a dignified peace.

• Malhar Rao Holkar (1693): The founder of the Holkar dynasty of Indore and a prominent subedar of the Maratha Empire who played a key role in expanding Maratha influence in Malwa.

• Potti Sreeramulu (1901): A revered revolutionary and Gandhian whose 58-day fast unto death led to the linguistic reorganization of states and the formation of Andhra State.

• Rajpal Yadav (1971): One of Bollywood's most versatile comedic actors, celebrated for his timing and memorable roles in films like Hungama and Bhool Bhulaiyaa.