Every year, October 17 is celebrated as United Nations' International Day for the Eradication of Poverty or Poverty Day. This day aims to raise awareness about the need to exterminate poverty and destitution worldwide, especially in developing countries. This year notes the 27th anniversary of the declaration by the UN General Assembly, in its 1992 resolution, of October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. How Being Poor Can Change Your Genes: Study Reveals Connection Between Poverty and Genetic Diseases.

The theme for 2019 Poverty Day is "Acting Together to Empower Children, their Families and Communities to End Poverty". Poverty has a hurtful impact on the health and also leads to lower income in adulthood. "When child poverty is recognized as a denial of children’s human rights then people in positions of responsibility and power are legally bound to promote, protect and fulfil children’s rights," UN said on its website. 271 Million People Moved Out of Poverty in India Over 10-Year: UNDP.

"The day presents an opportunity to acknowledge the effort and struggle of people living in poverty, a chance for them to make their concerns heard, and a moment to recognize that poor people are the first ones to fight against poverty. Participation of the poor themselves has been at the center of the Day's celebration since its very beginning," the United Nations added.

According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, "One of the keys to ending child poverty is addressing poverty in the household, from which it often stems. Access to quality social services must be a priority."

Several NGOs and community charities support Poverty Day by actively calling the leaders and governments to promote the fight against poverty. Other actions may include signing “Call to action” petitions and organising concerts and cultural events.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 17, 2019 08:53 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).