Rejuvenating Philately in India –Some Insights

                      (Part – I)

            Philately as a hobby is popular throughtout the world. In India also it is well established through a series of philatelic clubs in various cities. But there is a general perception that membership to these exclusive philatelic clubs is only for the elite.

        People at large seems reluctant to engage in serious philately. What is required is a continuous interaction between those who have deep knowledge and understanding about this hobby and those who are beginner’s (totally new to this hobby).

        Philately is like an ocean of knowledge. No one can imbibe every drop of it. Constant guidance and support is required for any new comer to develop this hobby. The need of the hour is “INSTITUTIONALIZED MENTORSHIP”.

        This mentorship can only be provided by senior philatelist with their vast experience and knowledge. These senior philatelists should act as guiding stones to all young new bee’s. To help them understand the nitty-gritty about philately and develop their own thematic collections. Their valuable tips may also protect them against fake or spurious issues, thus saving them from financial losses.

        Institutionalizing Mentorship would mean that philatelic clubs would nominate their own esteemed members to spare their valuable time to nurture new talents in Philately. They would act as guides and provide timely inputs to new philatelist to develop their hobby. Every month on a designated day they should spend a few hours with appointed apprentice. They should not only share their knowledge but should clear their doubts regarding philatelic issues. They should give the apprentice regular tasks and at each interaction evaluate the outcomes of previous assignments. These types of hand holding will a long way to establish the next generation of serious philatelist in India.

        I would appeal to all philatelic clubs in India to please initiate immediate steps to establish such Mentorship Programme in their Jurisdictions.

                                                                                           Regards,

                                           

                                                                                 

                                                                                                      Dr. Sudhir Gopal Jakhere IPoS,                                                                                                         Sr. Superintendent of Post Offices

                                                                                                      Coimbatore Division