Centenary of Calcutta Blind School

Centenary of Calcutta Blind School

Technical Data

Stamp Set Centenary Series
Date of Issue November 30, 1994
Denomination Rs. 2
Quantity 1,000,000
Perforation comb 13½ x 13
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1445

Stamp Number IN 1500

Yvert et Tellier IN 1236

Stanley Gibbons IN 1608

Themes Anniversaries and Jubilees | Computers | Education | Schools

Calcutta Blind School: A Century of Service

Overview:

Founded in 1894 by Rev. Lal Bihari Shah, the Calcutta Blind School has been a beacon of hope and education for the visually handicapped in India for over a century.

Early Beginnings:

  • Founding: Established by Rev. Lal Bihari Shah with one blind child in a modest cottage.
  • Growth: The school has evolved into a co-educational, residential institution serving about 150 boys and girls, and is affiliated with the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education.

Achievements and Programs:

  • Educational Focus:
  • Provides comprehensive education for visually impaired students.
  • Emphasizes integration into mainstream life and securing gainful employment.
  • Extracurricular Activities:
  • Offers music, crafts, sports, physical exercises, and scout and guide programs.
  • Vocational Training:
  • Programs include typewriting, light engineering, teacher training, and training for telephone operators.
  • Implements a computer education project with specially designed computers featuring Speech Synthesizers and Computer Assistance for the Blind (CAB) software.
  • Employment and Self-Employment:
  • Students have secured positions in government and private sectors.
  • Support for self-employment schemes, including bank loan arrangements.

Research and Development:

  • Research Wing:
  • Studies socio-economic conditions of the visually handicapped.
  • Focuses on education, preventive and curative aspects of sightlessness.
  • Plans to develop training modules for adults.

Legacy:

  • Impact: The school has made significant strides in the education and rehabilitation of visually impaired individuals, fostering their integration into society and the workforce.
  • Commemoration: The Department of Posts has issued a postage stamp to honor the school’s 100 years of dedicated service and contribution to the visually handicapped community.

Significance:

The Calcutta Blind School’s centenary celebrates a legacy of transforming lives through education, vocational training, and innovative support for the visually impaired, reflecting its enduring commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.