26th IBBY Congress
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | September 20, 1998 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 11 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Bharati Mirchandani |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1646 Stamp Number IN 1707 Yvert et Tellier IN 1412 Stanley Gibbons IN 1810 |
| Themes | Books | Cartoons | Conferences | Literature | Peace Doves |
Peace Through Children’s Books
The 26th IBBY Congress held in New Delhi marked a significant moment in the world of children’s literature. Hosted by the Association of Writers and Illustrators for Children (AWIC), the Indian Section of IBBY, the event focused on the inspiring theme:
Peace Through Children’s Books
This was the first time India hosted the world congress on children’s books, highlighting the country’s growing role in global children’s literature.
International Board on Books for Young People, commonly known as IBBY, is a non-profit organization founded in 1953 in Switzerland.
IBBY works worldwide to connect books and children through reading, literature, and education.
It includes:
- More than 60 National Sections
- Countries with strong publishing and literary programs
- A global network of authors, illustrators, educators, and librarians
Its mission is to encourage reading and promote quality books for young readers.
AWIC and India’s Role
The Association of Writers and Illustrators for Children (AWIC) is a voluntary Indian organization founded in 1981.
Since 1990, AWIC has served as the Indian Section of IBBY and has actively promoted children’s literature across India.
By hosting the 26th IBBY Congress, AWIC brought international attention to India’s contribution to books for children.
Theme: Peace Through Children’s Books
The central theme of the 26th IBBY Congress was:
Peace Through Children’s Books
The congress aimed to:
- Explore peace as a theme in children’s literature
- Encourage writers and illustrators to create peace-centered stories
- Promote harmony through reading
- Help children understand empathy and cooperation
- Use books to build a more peaceful world
Children’s books can communicate powerful messages in engaging and imaginative ways, helping young readers live in harmony with others and with themselves.
Hans Christian Andersen Awards
One of IBBY’s most prestigious contributions is the biennial Hans Christian Andersen Awards, often called the:
“Little Nobel Prize”
These awards recognize outstanding authors and illustrators for their lifelong contribution to children’s literature.
They are among the highest honors in the world of children’s books.
IBBY-Asahi Reading Promotion Award
IBBY also presents the IBBY-Asahi Reading Promotion Award to institutions or groups that significantly promote reading among children.
The AWIC received this award in 1991 for its successful Home Library Project, recognizing its efforts to make books more accessible to children.
Commemorative Stamp
To celebrate the occasion of the 26th IBBY Congress in New Delhi, the Department of Posts issued a special commemorative postage stamp.
The stamp design effectively symbolized the message of peace through books and the power of literature in shaping young minds.
Importance of Children’s Literature
The event highlighted how children’s books can:
- Encourage imagination
- Teach kindness and understanding
- Build global awareness
- Promote tolerance and peace
- Develop lifelong reading habits
Books are among the most effective tools for nurturing compassionate future generations.
Conclusion
The 26th IBBY Congress in New Delhi was a landmark event celebrating the power of books to inspire peace and understanding. Through the efforts of AWIC and IBBY, children’s literature was recognized as a bridge between cultures and a force for harmony in the world.
First Day Cover
