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  • Commemorative Stamp
  • 25 May 1996

Centenary S.K.C.G. College, Gajapati

On May 25, 1996, India Post issued a ₹1 stamp to mark the centenary of Shri Krushna Chandra Gajapati (S.K.C.G.) Autonomous College, Paralakhemundi, one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in Odisha. Founded in 1896 by the visionary Maharaja of Paralakhemundi, Shri Krushna Chandra Gajapati, the college was established with the noble goal of bringing higher education to the historically underserved southern regions of the state. The stamp celebrates the institution's 100-year legacy of academic excellence and its role as a cradle for the intellectual and political leadership of Odisha. The college was a pivotal center during the movement for the creation of a separate Odisha province, with the Maharaja himself playing a leading role in the state's unification. Over the century, the college evolved from a small tutorial school into a premier autonomous institution, nurturing thousands of scholars, scientists, and public servants. This commemorative issue recognizes the college’s profound contribution to social development and its enduring status as a symbol of educational progress. For collectors, it serves as a tribute to the rich cultural and academic history of Odisha and the visionary philanthropy of the Gajapati dynasty, which laid the foundation for modern learning in the region.

Date of issue May 25, 1996
Denomination Rs. 1
Quantity printed 400000
Printer Calcutta Security Printers Ltd
Perforation comb 13½ x 13
Watermark No Watermark
Colours Brown | Cream
Printing process Offset Lithography
Catalogue codes Michel IN 1505 Stamp Number IN 1567 Yvert et Tellier IN 1301S Stanley Gibbons IN 1669

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About this stamp

The S.K.C.G. College, a prominent educational institution in Orissa, has a rich history that spans over a century. Here’s an overview of its evolution and significance:

History and Development of S.K.C.G. College

  • Origins (1857): The institution began as a primary grade school in 1857, initially supported by local subscriptions. The Court of Wards on behalf of the Raja of Paralakhemundi later provided a monthly grant for its upkeep.
  • Progression:
  • 1878: Elevated to a Middle School.
  • 1884: Became a High School.
  • 1896: Upgraded to a Second Grade College, affiliated with Madras University.
  • 1936: Promoted to a First Grade College in honor of the Raja Saheb of Paralakhemundi, who was conferred the title of Maharaja.
  • Affiliations and Management:
  • 1943: One of the five colleges affiliated with Utkal University during its establishment.
  • 1947: Management taken over by the State Government.
  • 1980: Post Graduate classes introduced.
  • Post 1980: Affiliated with Andhra University and later Berhampur University.
  • Current Status:
  • Educational Levels: The college now imparts instruction at the Higher Secondary, Degree, and Post Graduate levels.
  • Significance: It is the third oldest college in the State of Orissa and the only degree/Post Graduate college in the district of Gajapati.

Centenary Celebrations and Commemorative Stamp

To commemorate the centenary of S.K.C.G. College, the Department of Post has issued a special postage stamp. The stamp symbolizes the institution’s contribution to higher education in the region and its role in producing prominent intellectuals, administrators, politicians, social workers, and professionals.

Credits:

  • Text: Principal, SKCG College
  • Design of Stamp: C.S.P. Kanpur
  • First Day Cover (FDC): Sankha Samantha
  • Cancellation: Smt Alka Sharma

The issuance of this stamp honors the college’s remarkable journey and its continued impact on education and society.

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