Central Excise Day and Historical Significance of February 24

Key facts

• Central Excise Day is observed in India on 24 February to mark the enactment of the Central Excise and Salt Act of 1944.
• The day honours the officers of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) for their role in revenue collection and economic development.
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) hosted a National Round Table Conference with State Election Commissioners in New Delhi on 24 February 2026 to discuss electoral reforms and the ECINET digital system.
• A major tariff policy linked to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act in the United States (US) was paused following a Supreme Court ruling on 24 February 2026.
• On 24 February 1739, Nader Shah of Persia defeated Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah in the Battle of Karnal, leading to the seizure of the Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-Noor diamond.
• Sachin Tendulkar recorded the first double century in men’s One Day International (ODI) cricket on 24 February 2010, scoring 200 not out against South Africa in Gwalior.
• Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, causing significant shifts in global energy prices and alliances.
• Pope Gregory XIII issued the reform that established the Gregorian calendar on 24 February 1582.
• The US House of Representatives impeached President Andrew Johnson on 24 February 1868, marking the first presidential impeachment in US history.
• Adolf Hitler announced the 25-Point Programme in Munich on 24 February 1920, marking the formal foundation of the Nazi Party.
• Estonia celebrates its Independence Day on 24 February to commemorate the declaration of freedom in 1918.
• Notable births on 24 February include Apple co-founder Steve Jobs (1955), former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa (1948), and filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali (1963).
• Historical figures born on this date include the traveller Ibn Battuta (1304) and the folklorist Wilhelm Grimm (1786).
• The first Swaminarayan temple was inaugurated in Ahmedabad on 24 February 1822.
• Global observances on 24 February include Flag Day in Mexico and the traditional spring festival Dragobete in Romania.
• Indian actress Sridevi passed away in Dubai on 24 February 2018.