Amit Shah to release special postal stamp on centenary of Vithalbhai Patel

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah will release a special commemorative postal stamp marking the centenary of Vithalbhai Patel, the first elected Indian President (Speaker) of the Central Legislative Assembly in 1925, at the upcoming All India Speakers’ Conference.

Announcing this, Speaker Vijender Gupta said, “Honouring our parliamentary pioneers is not just about remembering history, but also about drawing inspiration for the future. In this spirit, this stamp is being released as a centenary tribute to Vithalbhai Patel.”

The release will take place in the presence of Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya M Scindia. Issued by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with India Post, this special stamp will honour the distinguished parliamentary legacy and monumental contributions of Patel.

This commemorative issuance recognises Patel’s pioneering role in India’s freedom movement and his historic leadership as the first Indian to preside over the Central Legislative Assembly on 24 August 1925. His tenure was marked by impartiality, unwavering adherence to parliamentary procedures, protection of legislative independence, promotion of meaningful debate and a resolute commitment to democratic values.

Gupta recalled that earlier, on 27 September 1973, a commemorative postal stamp had also been released on his birth centenary, symbolising the nation’s lasting reverence for his exceptional service to Indian democracy.

The release of this stamp will form an integral part of the All India Speakers’ Conference 2025, which will bring together Speakers, Deputy Speakers, Chairpersons and Deputy Chairpersons from Legislative Assemblies and Councils across the country. The conference will deliberate on issues such as constitutional foundations, the growth of democratic institutions and the integration of Artificial Intelligence in parliamentary functioning.

The commemorative postal stamp will stand as a national homage to Patel’s monumental role in India’s democratic journey. Issued in limited numbers, such stamps also become valued philatelic collectibles and part of the nation’s cultural heritage. Through this symbolic issuance, the country once again pays deep respect and gratitude to a leader who not only wrote a golden chapter in legislative history but also embodied the ideals of selfless service, courage and steadfast commitment to parliamentary democracy.