37th Commonwealth Parliamentary Assn. Conference, New Delhi

Commemorative Stamp Set: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association

Design Elements:

The stamp features the Parliament House alongside the emblem of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). The design is by Pulak Biswas, who also designed the First Day Cover based on material provided by the Lok Sabha Secretariat. The cancellation is designed by Neenu Gupta.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

The Commonwealth is a unique, multi-racial, multi-lingual, multi-cultural, and multi-religious association of sovereign nations, representing nearly a quarter of the world’s population across all continents. Despite its vast diversity, the Commonwealth remains a cohesive international organization committed to international cooperation to remove causes of war, promote tolerance, combat injustice, and secure development for all peoples. India’s decision to remain a member of the Commonwealth after gaining independence was rooted in its vision of a global society, encapsulated in the ancient Indian concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family).

Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, envisioned the Commonwealth as a powerful force for peace. For India, the Commonwealth is an experiment in international understanding and cooperation, a voluntary grouping of nations based on mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation for the common good. India’s association with the Commonwealth is grounded in the belief that the fate of all nations is interconnected and that peaceful coexistence and global harmony are achievable through cultural understanding and shared problem-solving.

The CPA, as an association of the parliaments and provincial legislatures of Commonwealth countries, transcends social, religious, cultural, and linguistic diversities, united by shared interests, parliamentary institutions, respect for the rule of law, individual rights and freedoms, and a commitment to world peace. The CPA conferences provide a platform for parliamentarians worldwide to discuss and reach a consensus on pressing global issues, promoting the welfare of mankind and the common benefit of Commonwealth countries.

Usage:

This stamp set is ideal for collectors, historians, and those interested in international relations and parliamentary democracy. It commemorates the spirit of the Commonwealth and its contributions to global peace, cooperation, and understanding.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

The set honors the Commonwealth’s role in fostering international cooperation, peace, and understanding. It highlights the CPA’s contributions to parliamentary democracy and its efforts to address global issues through consensus and cooperation.

Example of the Stamp Design:

The stamp depicts the Indian Parliament House, symbolizing India’s active participation in the Commonwealth, and the emblem of the CPA, representing the unity and cooperation among Commonwealth nations.

The commemorative stamp set might include:

• A set of stamps featuring the Parliament House and the CPA emblem.
• A First Day Cover with significant symbols of the Commonwealth and the CPA.
• Cancellation designs highlighting the CPA’s role in promoting parliamentary democracy and global peace.
• A brief description of the Commonwealth’s history, India’s role in it, and the CPA’s significance.

Significance:

This commemorative stamp set serves as a tribute to the Commonwealth and the CPA, celebrating their contributions to global peace, democracy, and cooperation. It underscores India’s commitment to the ideals of the Commonwealth and its role in fostering international understanding and cooperation.