Odisha Philatelists: Stamping Out COVID-19 Crisis

Bhubaneswar: The Eastern India Philatelic Association on Saturday held an online charity auction of stamps and postal material as a fundraiser  for helping the distressed during the COVID-19 lockdown crisis.

Members of the philately group contributed articles, which were put on auction. The amount realised was put in a fund, which will be used to provide ration to daily wagers who are severely affected by the lockdown. Secretary of EIPA, Shanti Swarup Rath said Philately is a gentleman’s hobby. The sense of camaraderie, mutual trust and faith that philatelists share with each other and society in general, is not found in any other hobby.  

Anil Dhir  said that proceeds from the auction far exceeded expectations. Valuable postal material, many relating to Odisha was put up for auction by various members from all over the state. A set of ten pigeon post covers flown by the Orissa Pigeon Service were sold for more than Rs 4000. Many members also made online cash donations.

EIPA is one of the most prominent philatelic societies in the country with representation in the Philatelic Congress of India. It was established in 1998 in Bhubaneswar with Bijoyshree Routray as the first president. Since then, EIPA has grown to be a premier institution for philately and philatelists in India. The Society had a strong publishing record with many seminal works being written by its members. They are among the foremost stamp collectors in the country and have exhibited their collection both in the country and internationally. It will soon be celebrating its 25th Year Silver Jubilee and is among the oldest running societies. The membership base extends all over the state and country with more than 250 registered life members. Philatelists from Balangir, Sambalpur, Keonjhar, Berhampur, Katak and other places participated in the auction.