Centenary of Minicoy Lighthouse
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | February 2, 1985 |
| Denomination | Rs.1 |
| Quantity | 1,500,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1014 Stamp Number IN 1080 Yvert et Tellier IN 830 Stanley Gibbons IN 1152 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Lighthouses |
Commemorative Stamp: Minicoy Island Lighthouse Centenary
Lighthouses have stood as beacons of safety and guidance for ships navigating the world’s oceans since ancient times. The Minicoy Island Lighthouse, established in 1885, is a testament to India’s rich maritime heritage and continues to play a crucial role in ensuring safe navigation in the Arabian Sea.
Historical Significance
- Ancient Maritime Heritage: Lighthouses, such as the Pharos of Alexandria, have been integral to maritime navigation since antiquity. In India, lighthouses near medieval ports exemplified the country’s longstanding maritime traditions.
- Function and Importance: The primary role of lighthouses is to guide ships safely through treacherous waters, marking submerged hazards like rocks and shoals. They are vital for the safety of mariners and the protection of vessels navigating coastal and international waters.
- Minicoy Island Lighthouse: Located strategically in the Arabian Sea, the Minicoy Island Lighthouse has been operational since 1885. Standing at 47 meters, its circular masonry tower houses a powerful revolving lens apparatus that emits a beam with an intensity of 100,000 candles, visible up to 26 nautical miles.
- Technological Advancements: Over the years, the lighthouse has evolved with modern navigational aids, including a medium-frequency Radio-beacon with a range of 400 km. These advancements enhance its effectiveness in guiding ships along international sea lanes from Aden to Colombo, and Suez to Singapore.
Centenary Celebrations
- Service to Mariners: The Minicoy Island Lighthouse celebrated its centenary on February 2, 1985, marking a century of dedicated service to mariners navigating the challenging waters of the Arabian Sea. Its reputation as a reliable navigational landmark is widely recognized and appreciated.
- Department of Lighthouses and Lightships: Under the Ministry of Shipping and Transport, the Department of Lighthouses and Lightships manages and maintains navigational aids along India’s extensive coastline, encompassing 147 lighthouses, radio-beacons, fog signals, and other essential equipment.
Conclusion
The issuance of this commemorative postage stamp by the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department honors the enduring legacy of the Minicoy Island Lighthouse. It pays tribute to its pivotal role in maritime safety and navigation, reflecting India’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of mariners and ensuring smooth international maritime traffic.
This stamp celebrates the Minicoy Island Lighthouse’s century-long dedication to maritime safety and navigation, highlighting its technological advancements and pivotal role in India’s maritime history.