75th Session of the Indian Science Congress Association

Commemorative Stamp: Indian Science Congress Association

Design Elements:

• Central Image: An illustration of the Asiatic Society of Bengal building, symbolizing the venue of the first Science Congress.
• Background: Images of key founding members such as Sir Asutosh Mookerjee, Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose, and Sir P.C. Ray.
• Symbols: Icons representing various scientific disciplines (e.g., a microscope for biology, a flask for chemistry, an atom for physics).

Cultural and Historical Significance:

The idea to form an association of Indian scientists was first proposed in 1910 by British chemists J.L. Simonsen and P.S. MacMahon. This proposal quickly garnered support from prominent Indian scientists and educationists like Sir Asutosh Mookerjee, Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose, and Sir P.C. Ray. Recognizing the critical role of science and technology in India’s future development, these intellectuals and scientists met on November 2, 1912, at the Asiatic Society of Bengal and decided to establish a Science Congress managed by the Society.

As a result, the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) was founded in 1914 in Calcutta (now Kolkata) as a registered society with the primary objective “to advance and promote the cause of science in India.” The first annual session of the Science Congress was held from January 15 to January 17, 1914, at the premises of the Asiatic Society in Calcutta. The session was presided over by Hon’ble Justice Sir Asutosh Mookerjee, then Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University. It saw participation from 105 scientists from India and abroad and featured 35 papers on various subjects.

Over its 75 years of existence, the ISCA has grown into a formidable association of scientists and technologists. The annual sessions have consistently been held under the leadership of distinguished scientists, fostering the growth and development of scientific research in India.

Usage:

The stamp commemorates the 75th session of the Indian Science Congress, celebrating its significant contribution to the promotion and advancement of science in India. It acknowledges the association’s role in bringing together scientists and technologists from across the globe to discuss and share their research and innovations.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• Main Stamp: Featuring an illustration of the Asiatic Society of Bengal, where the first Science Congress was held, with portraits of founding members like Sir Asutosh Mookerjee, Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose, and Sir P.C. Ray.
• Supplementary Stamps:
• One stamp showcasing scientific icons such as a microscope, a flask, and an atom, representing different scientific disciplines.
• Another stamp depicting a gathering of scientists at a Congress session, symbolizing the collaboration and exchange of ideas fostered by the ISCA.

Significance:

This commemorative stamp set honors the Indian Science Congress Association’s legacy and its pivotal role in advancing science and technology in India. It celebrates the association’s dedication to fostering scientific research and collaboration, inspiring future generations to contribute to the field of science and technology.