Centenary of Cotton College, Assam
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Centenary Series |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | May 26, 2002 |
| Denomination | Rs. 4 |
| Quantity | 800000 |
| Perforation | comb 13¼ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1904 Stamp Number IN 1956 Yvert et Tellier IN 1669 Stanley Gibbons IN 2071 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN016.02 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Buildings | Schools | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: Cotton College, Guwahati
Design Elements:
- Main Image: The stamp features a grand image of the historic Cotton College building, capturing its architectural elegance and its importance as a center for higher education in Assam.
- Background: The backdrop showcases a blend of symbols representing Assam’s cultural and educational legacy, such as traditional motifs and books, emphasizing the college’s role in promoting intellectual and cultural growth.
Historical Significance:
- Establishment: Cotton College was established in 1901 during the administration of Sir Henry Cotton, after whom it is named. Over the years, the college has steadily expanded its influence, growing into a major institution of higher education.
- Early Development: Initially a government institution, Cotton College introduced B.A. and B.Sc. classes in 1909 when Assam was part of Eastern Bengal. Since 1912, as Assam became a separate province, the college expanded further, introducing honors classes in 1914 and adding facilities to meet the growing demand for higher education.
Contributions to Society:
- Influential Alumni: Cotton College has produced many notable personalities, including six Chief Ministers of Assam, starting with Bharat Ratna Gopinath Bordoloi. Among other esteemed alumni are:
- Krishna Kanta Handique: First Vice-Chancellor of Guwahati University and noted educationist.
- Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya and Momoni Roisom Goswami: Renowned litterateurs and Jnanpith Award winners.
- Dr. Bhupen Hazarika: Legendary musician and Dada Saheb Phalke Award recipient.
- Telimaran Ao: Captain of India’s first Olympic football team.
Academic Expansion:
- Courses Offered: Today, Cotton College offers major and postgraduate courses in 21 subjects, including sciences, humanities, and social sciences such as Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Mathematics, History, Political Science, and various languages.
- Postgraduate College Status: Recognizing its excellence, the Assam Government upgraded Cotton College to a full-fledged postgraduate institution in 1992.
Cultural Renaissance:
- Cotton College has played a significant role in Assam’s cultural and literary resurgence. It has nurtured many of Assam’s leading intellectuals and artists, contributing to the state’s rich heritage.
Educational Infrastructure:
- The college provides a cosmopolitan atmosphere, attracting students from across the North East region due to its excellent educational infrastructure. It has been pivotal in shaping the cultural and academic life of Assam and the broader region.
Commemoration:
- Honoring Cotton College’s Legacy: The Department of Posts celebrates Cotton College’s contributions to higher education and its lasting impact on Assam and the entire North East region of India by issuing this commemorative stamp.