Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | September 14, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 305,950 |
| Perforation | 14¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Sh. Sankha Samanta |
| Catalog Codes |
Colnect codes IN 2024.09.14-01 Yvert et Tellier IN 3668 Stanley Gibbons IN 3912 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Government Departments | Languages | Seals(Emblems) |
A Historic Milestone
On 14 September 2024, India celebrates a landmark occasion—the Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha, marking 75 years since Hindi was adopted as the official language of the Union. This historic decision was taken by the Constituent Assembly on 14 September 1949, after extensive debates on language and script. The Assembly chose Hindi in the Devanagari script, laying the foundation for India’s linguistic identity.
From Debate to Law
The Constituent Assembly’s decision was later reinforced through key legislations:
- Official Languages Act, 1963 – enabled the use of Hindi in Union transactions.
- Official Language Resolution, 1968 – ensured the progressive implementation of Hindi.
- Official Language Rules, 1976 – set guidelines for official usage.
To further strengthen this framework, the Department of Official Language was established in June 1975 under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with a mandate to promote Hindi in official communication through motivation, encouragement, and goodwill.
Key Initiatives to Promote Hindi
Over the decades, several innovative steps have been taken to expand the role of Hindi:
Kanthastha Software
Developed in collaboration with C-DAC Pune, this AI-powered tool aids in accurate and efficient translation. Its upgraded version, Kanthastha 2.0, launched on Hindi Diwas 2022, reflects the use of cutting-edge technology in language development.
Hindi Shabd Sindhu
A comprehensive digital dictionary, covering terms from health, technology, law, media, and more. It also integrates commonly used words from other Indian languages, highlighting India’s linguistic diversity.
Bhartiya Bhasha Anubhag
An initiative to strengthen Central–State correspondence in their respective official languages, ensuring inclusivity within India’s federal structure.
Celebrating Hindi Diwas and Conferences
To promote Hindi nationwide, the Department organizes Hindi Diwas celebrations and All India Official Language Conferences.
- 1st Conference (2021, Varanasi) – 2,500 participants
- 2nd Conference (2022, Surat) – 8,000 participants
- 3rd Conference (2023, Pune) – 8,000+ participants
- 4th Conference (2024, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi) – coinciding with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
These events reflect the growing enthusiasm for Hindi as a unifying language across the country.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
To honor this milestone, the Department of Posts is issuing a special commemorative postage stamp for the Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha. This stamp symbolizes:
- 75 years of Hindi as the Union’s official language.
- Its role in administration, culture, and national identity.
- The enduring importance of Hindi in uniting India’s diverse linguistic communities.
Honoring Hindi’s Journey
The Diamond Jubilee of Rajbhasha is not just a celebration of the past 75 years, but also a recognition of Hindi’s evolving role in governance, culture, and technology. This special stamp stands as a tribute to Hindi’s contribution in strengthening India’s unity in diversity.
First Day Cover
