Colombo, Sri Lanka, 27.12.2023: In commemoration of the 200th anniversary since the arrival of Tamil people of Indian origin in Sri Lanka, a population that has endured significant struggles and sacrifices in the pursuit of their rights and dignified living, there is a recognised need for the acknowledgment of the Hill-Country community in the contemporary context.
In response to this imperative, under the directives of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and along with Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chairperson K. Annamalai, a commemorative stamp is set to be issued through the Indian Ministry of Posts, honouring the Hill-Country people and Tamil individuals of Indian origin residing in Sri Lanka.
Scheduled for a ceremony on the 30th of this month in New Delhi, India, the inaugural stamp will be presented by the National Leader of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Mr. J.P. Nadda, to the Governor of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka and the Leader of the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) Mr. Senthil Thondaman.
The Ministry of Posts of India has meticulously examined numerous documents and files pertaining to the migration of Tamils of Indian origin to Sri Lanka to incorporate relevant historical markers on the stamp. This initiative aims to provide an accessible avenue for the people of India to gain a comprehensive understanding of the detailed history of hill country Tamil migration to Sri Lanka.
This historic stamp, set to launch on the 30th of this month, will be available in over 155,015 post offices in India, boasting the world’s largest postal network.
While over 32,285,425 people of Indian origin have migrated from India and are dispersed across more than 210 countries, including those such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Bhutan, the Tamils of Indian origin residing in Sri Lanka for two centuries are accorded a recognition not extended to the aforementioned nations, signifying an honour bestowed upon the people of Sri Lanka.
Beyond the realms of assistance, obligation, and responsibility, it is imperative to demonstrate respect and recognition to our people. The issuance of a stamp for Tamil people of Indian origin living in Sri Lanka serves not only as an expression of friendship between the two nations but also as an indication that Sri Lanka has earned the respect of the Hill-Country people.
Governor of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka and the Leader of the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC), Mr. Senthil Thondaman has been invited to receive first inaugural stamp during the stamp release event.
