2-day Philately exhibition begins in Jammu

Jammu, Nov 13: A two-day philately exhibition showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Jammu through postal stamps began at the Kala Kendra Jammu on Wednesday.

Principal Secretary Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta, inaugurated the event.

More than 5000 rare and varied stamps issued in India and in other countries are on display in the exhibition. Some of these stamps date back to the colonial period. The Department of Posts is also exhibiting over 30 postal stamps issued in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking on the occasion, the Principal Secretary praised the postal department for hosting the exhibition depicting the rich history of Jammu. He referred to philately as an important means to know about the cultural heritage of the country.

Referring to the New Education Policy as envisioned by the Prime Minister of India which emphasised the overall development of a child, Gupta said, “Philately is an interesting hobby and should be adopted by children to remain engaged and to overcome stress.”

Director Postal Services, Prateek Singh described philately as a “hobby of kings and king of all hobbies.” He said that the department introduced stamps, special covers related to events, monuments and eminent personalities from time to time which played an important role in preserving history.

Principal Gandhi Memorial Science College, Professor Ramesh Gupta and noted philatelist, Madhukar Jhingan, who were special guests, also spoke on the occasion.

Ankush Bhagat, Indian Postal Service, Senior Superintendent of Post Offices, Jammu Postal Division, while speaking to the media, said, “In consonance with the theme of “Jammu Pex 2024” Philately exhibition, ‘Celebrating Heritage’, special covers would be issued on Jammu’s prominent institutions of heritage importance. To begin with, a special cover on GGM Science College was unveiled by the Principal Secretary Culture and School Education today.”

The daylong event witnessed stamp designing, a quiz competition, and a workshop by eminent philatelists for the students.  Students from different schools in Jammu district and people from different walks of life participated in the inaugural event.