Bangladesh and India will jointly celebrate “Maitree Diwas” (Friendship Day) in 18 countries on December 6, marking 50 years of Bangladesh’s independence and 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-India diplomatic relations. On December 06, 1971, India recognized an independent Bangladesh, borne out of the nine-month long struggle of the Bangalee people for liberation from oppression, for a life of freedom. To cherish this landmark day in history, the two friendly countries are hosting a “Maitree Diwas” logo and backdrop design competition. The contest is open to all citizens of India and Bangladesh, residents in their respective countries or anywhere in the world. READ: Bangladesh, India planning limited flight operation The last date for accepting entries is 31 October 2021. The submission of entry is free; and no special qualifications are prescribed, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The entries will be judged on the basis of elements of creativity, originality, composition, technical excellence, simplicity, artistic merit and visual impact and how well the theme is communicated. For each category of contest, the selected winners will be awarded the first prize of US$ 1,000, second prize US$ 700, third prize US$ 500, and 5 consolation prizes of US$ 200 each; the sum due will be paid in equivalent INR or Tk to only an account maintained in India or Bangladesh. The contest will take place in two categories -- one for logo and the other for backdrop design. An entrant cannot submit more than one entry for each category but can submit a separate entry for each of the two categories. Multiple entries from the same entrant for one category will not be considered and will be rejected. Every entry should be accompanied by a brief written explanation of the Design and how it best symbolizes the concept of ‘Maitree Diwas’. READ: Bangladesh, India start freight train services on Haldibari-Chilahati route An entry could be an individual or a team project, provided participating team members are all nationals of India or Bangladesh, or both.