Childrens Day

Commemorative Postage Stamp on the Theme – “Communal Harmony”

The Department of Posts has been organizing national-level stamp design and photography competitions since 2015 on special occasions such as Independence Day, Children’s Day, and Republic Day. Based on the entries received from participants across the country, postage stamps are designed and released, and selected participants are awarded cash prizes.

For Children’s Day 2018, a nationwide stamp design competition was conducted on the theme “Communal Harmony”, chosen to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. The theme reflected one of Gandhi Ji’s core ideals — unity and peace among all communities.

The competition witnessed an overwhelming response from students nationwide, and the Department extended sincere appreciation to parents and school authorities who encouraged the young participants. Based on the winning designs, a set of stamps, a miniature sheet, a first day cover, and a brochure were designed and released.

The Spirit of Communal Harmony

India, a land of immense cultural and religious diversity, flourishes as a vibrant democracy where people of different faiths, languages, and traditions coexist harmoniously. Every community enriches the national fabric through its distinct festivals, folk songs, customs, and values, yet all are united by a shared identity as Indians.

The term ‘Communal Harmony’ derives from ‘Community’, symbolizing a spirit of mutual respect, tolerance, and brotherhood among all citizens. The Indian Constitution upholds these ideals by ensuring equality and fundamental rights for every individual, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed.

Instilling the values of harmony and respect among the youth is crucial for nurturing a peaceful and progressive nation. Schools play an important role in cultivating this understanding by teaching children the significance of unity in diversity from an early age.

Gandhian Vision of Harmony

Mahatma Gandhi, an ardent advocate of truth, non-violence, and communal unity, believed that a nation can prosper only when its people live together in peace and mutual respect. According to Gandhian philosophy, “Communal Harmony means an unbreakable heart unity… for every Indian, whatever his religion may be, to feel kinship with everyone of the millions of inhabitants of Hindustan.”

Gandhi Ji’s timeless vision continues to guide India’s journey towards unity, compassion, and collective progress.

Children’s Day 2018 – National Stamp Design Competition Winners

To promote this ideal among the younger generation, the Philately Division of the Department of Posts organized a painting competition on the theme “Communal Harmony”. Entries were invited in two categories — students up to Class VII and students from Class VIII to XII.

Category I – Students up to Class VII

• First Prize: Bipariti Malik, Agartala
• Second Prize: Soumabaha Kar, 24 Parganas, West Bengal
• Third Prize: Viha Amit Shah, Mumbai

Consolation Prizes:
Shivani V. S. (Kerala), Aritra Karar (Howrah), Sekh Imran Kunu (Bangladesh, Allahabad, UP), Bhumika Mishra (Kolkata, West Bengal), and Shruti Chawla (Agra, Tripura).

Category II – Students from Class VIII to XII

• First Prize: Fidal T. Antony, Kerala
• Second Prize: Sudhir Kumar, Kapurthala, Punjab
• Third Prize: Anand Anand, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Consolation Prizes:
Sourjoi Pal (Howrah, West Bengal), Tuhir Sir A. R. (Chennai, Tamil Nadu), Masirah Reyaz Alam (Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh), Samiksha (Durg, Chhattisgarh), and Arpita Das (Goa).

A Stamp that Celebrates Unity in Diversity

The “Communal Harmony” commemorative stamp issue is not just a philatelic release—it is a symbol of India’s inclusive spirit and a reminder of Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless message of peace, tolerance, and brotherhood. The creativity of young artists beautifully captures the essence of harmony that binds our nation together.