150th Anniversary of Scottish Church College, Calcutta
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | September 27, 1980 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 35 p |
| Perforation | comb 13¼ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | Large Star and 'INDIA GOVT' (Sh) [Up] |
| Colors | Lilac |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 839 Stamp Number IN 874 Yvert et Tellier IN 638 Stanley Gibbons IN 981 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Schools |
The Scottish Church College, along with the Collegiate School, marks its 150th year of foundation this year, boasting a rich heritage. Originally known as the General Assembly’s Institution, it was established on July 13, 1830, by Alexander Duff, the first overseas missionary of the Church of Scotland to India. Dr. Duff, along with Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a key figure in India’s modernization, played a significant role in supporting Lord Macaulay in drafting his famous minute advocating for the introduction of English education in India.
Successive eminent missionary scholars from Scotland, such as Dr. Ogilvie, Dr. Hastie, Dr. MacDonald, Dr. Stephen, Dr. Watt, Dr. Urquhart, and others, contributed to the spread of liberal Western education. Dr. Duff also played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Calcutta University in 1857 and was associated with the Agro-horticultural Society and the founding of a medical college. He aimed to break down caste barriers by founding several girls’ schools, showcasing the institution’s pioneering role in women’s education and co-education in the country.
The Scottish Church College stands as a monument to Indo-Scottish cooperation, with its aims and principles rooted in character formation through education based on Christian teachings. The college’s motto, “Nectamen Consumebatur,” meaning burning and yet not consumed, reflects its enduring commitment to its mission.
Offering honors courses in various subjects, a well-equipped Science Department, a library with rare manuscripts and collections, a B.Ed. Department for women, and six hostels, the college primarily serves students from middle and low-income families. Its distinguished alumni include internationally renowned figures like Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Under a constitution adopted in 1953, control of the college, which had previously rested with the Church of Scotland, was transferred to a council representative of the Church of North India and the college staff. The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department is honored to issue a special postage stamp commemorating 150 years of service by this esteemed institution to the nation.