Principal Secretary Culture and School Education, Suresh Kumar Gupta, today inaugurated two day philately exhibition, showcasing history and cultural heritage of Jammu through postal stamps, at Kala Kendra.
Principal GGM Science College, Professor Ramesh Gupta, was the guest of honour while Madhukar, noted philatelist of the country was special guest on the occasion.
Large number of students drawn from different schools of Jammu district besides people from different walks of life participated in the inaugural event.
More than 5000 rare and varied stamps, issued in India and in other countries, have been put for display at the exhibition. Some of these stamps are from the colonial period.
Besides, the India Post is also displaying over 30 postal stamps issued on Jammu and Kashmir in the exhibition. Speaking on the occasion, Suresh Kumar lauded the Department of Posts for hosting the exhibition depicting the rich history of Jammu.
He referred philately as an interesting hobby to know about the cultural heritage of the country. Referring to the New Education Policy as envisioned by the Prime Minister of India, Principal Secretary said that children should adopt learning things as their hobby in order to overcome stress and tension. He further described Philately as one of such hobbies.
Later, the Principal Secretary also released a special cover on GGM Science College. Director Postal Services, Prateek, described Philately as Hobby of Kings and King of all Hobbies.
He said that India Post from time to time is introducing stamps, special covers related to events, monuments and eminent personalities thus playing its role in preserving the history.
Professor Ramesh Gupta, Madhukar Jhingan, noted philatelist, also spoke on the occasion. The day long event witnessed stamp designing, quiz competition and workshop by eminent philatelists for the students.