KATHMANDU: The Department of Postal Services under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has issued a commemorative postage stamp and First Day Cover honouring Shanti Mishra, recognised as the pioneer of Nepal’s first modern library established in 1962 (2019 BS).
The First Day Cover cancellation was formally executed by Secretary at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology Laxmi Kumari Basnet, as chief guest. The 10-rupee stamp features Mishra’s portrait alongside the historic library building, acknowledging her contributions to the development of library services, education, and the promotion of knowledge in Nepal.
Speaking at the programme, Secretary Basnet highlighted Mishra’s pivotal role in introducing the concept of a modern library in Nepal’s academic landscape. She said Mishra not only helped transform the Tribhuvan University Central Library from a traditional repository into a modern knowledge institution but also made significant contributions to women’s rights and gender mainstreaming in development.
Director General Manmaya Bhattarai Pangeni described the Tribhuvan University Central Library as a foundational institution for research and learning, calling it a vital “storehouse of knowledge and information.” She said the commemorative stamp was issued in recognition of Mishra’s “unparalleled contribution” to establishing and modernising the library, thereby honouring its historical significance.
Tribhuvan University Central Library Chief Sagar Raj Suvedi and Shanti Mishra’s spouse, Narayan Prasad Mishra, expressed gratitude in their remarks, while Nepal Philatelic Society President Chandra Rabi Shrestha extended best wishes to the programme.
The programme opened with welcome remarks by Department Director Jamuna Mishra. Director Sapana Kumari Bhattarai conducted it, while Section Officer Chandra Thapa presented a brief description of the stamp and Designer Purna Kala Limbu read out the technical details.
Measuring 45 mm by 35 mm, the stamp is printed in six colours, including fluorescent and silver inks. According to designer Limbu, it is produced on security stamp paper embedded with visible and invisible fibres to strengthen authentication and deter forgery. A total of 475,000 copies have been printed at the Security Printing Center in Singhadurbar, with each sheet containing 48 stamps.
Following the unveiling of the stamp, the department also distributed certificates to participants of a philatelic exhibition held on the occasion of Republic Day 2083. The exhibition, staged at Bhaktapur Durbar Square on May 27, featured 20 frames of exhibits presented by 11 members of the Nepal Philatelic Society. Schools that facilitated student visits to the exhibition were also recognised with certificates of appreciation.
Certificates were distributed by Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology Laxmi Kumari Basnet and Director General of the Department of Postal Services Manmaya Bhattarai Pangeni, who attended as chief guests.
