‘Naga-Pex 2025’ philatelic exhibition kick off at DBHSS Kohima

DIMAPUR — ‘Naga-Pex 2025’— a two-day district-level philatelic exhibition presentation — organised by the Department of Posts, Nagaland Postal Division, go underway at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School (DBHSS) in Kohima on Monday.

The two day event will feature non-competitive stamp exhibits, interactive philately workshop for students, My Stamp (personalised stamps) counter, letter-writing competition and stamp drawing competition for Classes 7 to 10.

Addressing the inaugural programme, Director of Postal Services Nagaland Division, Dr. Alice Keviwetuonuo Vizo stated that the philatelic exhibition aims to spark interest among students in collecting and studying postal stamps.

She highlighted philately's significance, noting it weaves together various subjects like history, geography, culture, and science, serving as a cultural ambassador and national identity. The exhibition also sought to introduce philately clubs in schools, promoting this enriching hobby.

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Vizo emphasised that philately is a wonderful hobby that enhances knowledge, art appreciation, and has therapeutic benefits. She noted it's inclusive across all ages and every stamp has a story, often commemorating significant events, notable personalities, or achievements.

She also stated that stamps are issued to honour individuals with remarkable contributions, legacy, and impact, making each stamp a testament to their enduring influence.

Referring to great personalities like mother Teresa, Don Bosco and Mahatma Gandhi who have stamps on them, she stated, “they are not the richest as in material sense or the fanciest and never go after fame or power but were beautiful selfless personality characterized by greatness of mind and the heart, whom we want to cherish and remember thus their stamps are issued out by countries who regard them with the highest respect for the positive impact they have done for humanity”.

This, she remarked is the story behind how personalities, institution and events find their way in a simple visual representation in the form of stamps.

With 11 participating schools and around 50 frames on display, Dr. Vizo believed that limiting participation would be unfair, given the diverse themes and international stamps showcased.

She encouraged the students to actively participate in the workshop, quiz, letter writing, and stamp design competitions, showcasing their best talents.

She emphasised the significance of letter writing, highlighting its value not just in competitions but as a vital skill for personal and official communication, enabling effective conveyance of ideas.

Dr. Vizo went on to state that stamp designing and painting go beyond just combining colours but they serve as powerful means of self-expression, foster imagination and provide a medium for artistic expression.

She further remarked that it was a special day for Don Bosco HSS, Kohima, as a special cover on the school was being released.

The proponents for this special cover were the 1999 batch of the school, showcasing their gratitude to this thriving institution in a wonderful way, she acknowledged. She added that this special cover would also be displayed at the National Philatelic Museum in Delhi.