Two day Stamp Mela in Odisha from 7th and 8th January 2012

Report by OrissaDiary.com correspondent; Bhubaneswar:

 Eastern India Philatelic Association, Bhubaneswar in association with India Post  is organising  a two day   Orissa Stamp Mela on  the 7th and 8th January 2012 at Hotel Keshari, Bhubaneswar.

 Shri Shanti Swarup Rath, Dr. Bhibhudatta Mishra and Shri A.K.Dash , the organising Secretary of the Stamp Mela said that this is the first time that such an event is being held in Odisha. The Stamp mela will provide collectibles like worldwide used and mint stamps,postal stationery, stamp albums,First Day Covers etc. More then 20 stamp dealers from all over the country shall be participating in this event. Even one Stamp dealer from Bangladesh is opening his stall..

Stamp exhibits prepared by Schoolchildren will be showcased dueint the two dat Mela.This event will be attended by many philatelists from Eastern India. Prizes will be awarded to the exhibits and to the participants of the Quiz, General Knowledge  and Painting Competition held earlier.

EIPA is the nodal organisation of philatelists in Odisha. The event is being jointly held with Utkal Philatelists and Numismatics Association and Orissa Philatelic Association.

Anil Dhir,  a member of EIPA spoke of the dying habit of Philately. He said that such a  event will give encouragement  to young philatelists. He said that  Philately is a hobby which is fast gaining popularity all over the world. In China, Philately is a subject in Primary schools and is part of the State Education Curricula.