India-Maldives Mark 60 Years with Commemorative Stamps

• India and Maldives released commemorative stamps for 60 years of diplomatic ties.
• The stamps depict India’s Uru boat and Maldives’ Vadhu Dhoni, symbolizing shared maritime heritage.
• The release signifies the close and historical bond between the two nations, established in 1965.

GG News Bureau
Male, 26th July: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Republic of Maldives, on July 25, jointly released commemorative stamps to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Maldives. This release symbolizes the deep-rooted and historical ties shared by the two nations.

The newly unveiled stamps beautifully reflect the age-old bilateral connections by featuring significant traditional boats from both countries. One stamp depicts the Indian boat ‘Uru’, a large wooden dhow meticulously handcrafted in the historic boatyards of Beypore, Kerala. The other stamp showcases the traditional Maldivian fishing boat, ‘Vadhu Dhoni’, renowned for its use in reef and coastal fishing. Both types of vessels have been integral to Indian Ocean trade for centuries, embodying the rich maritime heritage of the region and underscoring the close bond between island life and the ocean.

India holds the distinction of being among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Maldives following its independence in 1965. The release of these commemorative stamps serves as a powerful testament to the enduring friendship and historical camaraderie that continue to define the relationship between India and the Maldives.