In a significant event celebrating the bicentennial presence of Indian-Origin Tamils (IOT) in Sri Lanka, a commemorative stamp was released recently on May 18. Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar received the first stamp, presented by the Governor of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, Senthil Thondaman.
The release of this stamp marks a notable recognition for the IOT community, which has long faced neglect and marginalisation. Speaking at the event, Governor Thondaman expressed gratitude to both the Indian and Sri Lankan governments for their continued support to the IOT community. He emphasised that the stamp symbolises acknowledgment and appreciation for the contributions and struggles of Indian-Origin Tamils over the past 200 years.
The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka took to social media to commemorate the event. In a tweet, they highlighted the attendance of High Commissioner Santosh Jha at the stamp release ceremony, alongside other dignitaries including the Honourable Speaker, Ministers, and Heads of Missions (HoMs). The tweet read: “HC @santjha attended the release of a postal stamp by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to commemorate 200 years of arrival of Indian-Origin Tamils to Sri Lanka. Several dignitaries, including Hon. Speaker, Ministers, and HoMs also attended the event on the invitation of Hon. Governor @S_Thondaman.”
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Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, upon receiving the first stamp, underscored the importance of recognising the historical and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka. The event marked a moment of pride for the IOT community, celebrating their rich heritage and resilience.
The commemorative stamp release follows a similar event held in December last year, when Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President J.P. Nadda released a stamp to honour the 200-year history of Indian-Origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. BJP Tamil Nadu President K. Annamalai noted that during the December event, Nadda shared his experiences working with the IOT community during his tenure as Health Minister. Nadda acknowledged the hardships faced by the community and reiterated the Indian government’s commitment to their welfare.
Annamalai highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Indian government to support the IOT community. Since taking office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritised the welfare and development of Indian-origin Tamils in Sri Lanka. The central government has sanctioned 14,000 houses and provided essential services in health, education, and cultural facilities to the IOT community. Additionally, as part of India’s neighbour-first policy, approximately $4 billion in financial aid was extended to Sri Lanka to help the nation through its recent economic crisis.
The commemorative stamp release not only celebrates the historical presence of Indian-Origin Tamils in Sri Lanka but also signifies the enduring bond between the two nations.
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