Issued by India

Issued on Sep 1, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on 2^nd International Tiger Forum and hails the contribution of India and global community to save Tiger and its ecosystem.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Shri Brahm Prakash
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 301875

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Differing attitudes and beliefs regarding the relationship of humankind to other creatures has been a topic of interest for civilizations. India, the land of eastern religions of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism, strongly lays emphasis on non injury to animals. The doctrine of non-violence or non-killing is taken from these eastern philosophies. In Sanatan Dharma, animals are carriers of gods and goddesses and hence considered integral part of human lifestyle. Tiger, is the carrier of Goddess Durga, the source of unlimited power and abundance.
• The Government of India took a pioneering initiative for conserving its national animal, the tiger, by launching the “Project Tiger” in 1973. “Project Tiger”, now ongoing as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) of Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India, was launched in 09 tiger reserves of different States (Assam, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal) over an area of approximately 14,000 km². Since then, the project coverage has expanded considerably to 52 tiger reserves (TR), encompassing an area of around 74,725.07 km² in 18 tiger States with 41,022.9 km² of notified core/ critical tiger habitats and 33,602.12 km² of buffer / peripheral areas in 18 tiger states.
• Due to ongoing conservation efforts under the Project Tiger in designated tiger reserves, India supports almost 70% of wild tigers amongst the 13 tiger range countries in the world. Project Tiger has put the endangered tiger on an assured path of recovery, as revealed in the country level assessment of tiger, co- predators, prey and habitat.
• In November, 2010, the Russian Federation had organized an International Forum on issues related to preservation of tiger in St Petersburg. The forum had adopted a declaration of the Heads of Governments on Tiger Conservation and the Global Tiger Recovery Program. One of the important decisions taken in the Forum was doubling of tiger population in the natural habitat of tiger by 2022.
• It is heartening to note that India has achieved the goal of doubling the tigers well ahead of the schedule and India is one of the leading Tiger Range Countries in the world in tiger conservation.
• As per the agreement reached in 2010 in St Petersburg, 2^nd International Tiger Forum is being held. This 2^nd International Forum has the main objectives of reviewing the results of Global Program and determine new priorities for further joint work of interested parties. The 2^nd International Tiger Forum is an important international event in creating awareness in stakeholders and India’s achievement of doubling of tiger numbers.
• To commemorate the 2^nd International Forum, the Russian Federation is issuing a postage stamp dedicated to this event. India being the global leader in tiger conservation is reciprocating the gesture by releasing a Commemorative Postage Stamp to celebrate this important global event.
• The Commemorative Postage Stamp also pays tribute to ‘Collarwali’ the famous tigress of Pench Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, which passed away in January, 2022. This Super MOM, tigress had given birth to 29 tiger cubs in her life time and an astonishing 25 cubs had survived into adulthood.
• Text : Referenced from the contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on May 1, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Centenary Celebrations of University of Delhi and salute its contribution in nation building through excellence in education.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 674000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• University of Delhi is celebrating its 100^th year. Established in 1922, it is a premier university with an unparalleled legacy and international acclaim for highest academic standards, diverse educational programmes, distinguished faculty members, illustrious alumni, varied co-curricular activities and modern infrastructure and stands tall by all parameters. Throughout the period of its existence, the University has sustained the highest global standards and best practices to higher education. Its long-term commitment to nation-building and unflinching adherence to universal human values are reflected in its motto: ‘Nishtha Dhriti Satyam’ ‘निष्ठा धृति सत्यम्’ (Dedication, Steadfastness and Truth).
• The University was established by the Act of the then Central Legislative Assembly, with a vision of excellence in teaching, research and social outreach, has made the University a role-model and trend-setter for other universities. The President of India is the Visitor, the Vice-President is the Chancellor and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India is the Pro-Chancellor of the University. Beginning with three colleges and 750 students, it has grown into one of the largest universities in India with 16 faculties, over 80 academic departments, an equal number of colleges and about eight lakh students. Over 550 programmes are offered by the University through various Colleges, Departments and Centers. It has about 2,000 foreign students from 75 countries.
• Drawing students and faculty from across India and abroad, the University has emerged as a symbol of excellence, integrity and openness of manasA (thought), vAchA (speech) and karmana (action).
• From Sir Hari Singh Gaur, the first Vice-Chancellor to Prof Yogesh Singh, the current Vice-Chancellor, the University of Delhi has come a long way in its 100-year scintillating journey. It has provided eight Heads of the State worldwide, hundreds of lawmakers, CEOs of top 100 Fortune companies, countless movie stars, litterateurs, scientists, philanthropists, art and culture connoisseurs and sportspersons. More than hundred have been given Padma Awards. The University promotes gender equality and empowerment through a number of courses and through its policies.
• The University today boasts of a good central library 33 big libraries apart from over 80 libraries in colleges with more than 6.6 million books. The University has also laid fibre-optic network in the North and the South Campuses connecting all colleges and departments.
• When the University of Delhi expanded in many directions to keep pace with a rapidly growing city, South Campus was established in 1973. It moved to its present location of 69 acres of green, hilly terrain near Dhaula Kuan in 1984. Besides these, the University has three Health Centers with modern medical facilities. At present, both Campuses provide some residential quarters for the staff. Outstation students are offered accommodation in several hostels which include two international hostels.
• The University has maintained its top position in the country as per the Centre for World University Ranking (CWUR) and 8^th position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework. It is also among the top 10 Indian public educational institutions/universities and the first among Indian public universities under QS BRICS University Rankings. The h-index of the University touched 192, one of the highest among Indian universities.
• The Vision and Mission statements of the University of Delhi reflect the resolve to assiduously pursue and achieve goals. It is committed to continue to be at the forefront of providing the best tertiary education to students and acting as a catalyst in shaping a bright and sustainable future of our nation and that of the whole world by acting as a bridge between the University community and the community at large. University of Delhi stands to foster all-round development of students through multi-faceted education and sustained engagement with local, national and global communities, and nurture lifelong inspired learners from across the globe in line with cultural ideal of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.
• Text : Referenced from the contents provided by Prof. Amarjiva Lochan, University of Delhi.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 16, 2020

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of five Commemorative Postage Stamps and a Miniature Sheet on Natural sites under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India-II.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (2), 1200 Paise (3)

Stamps Printed : 500000 each

Miniature Sheets Printed : 110000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• UNESCO World Heritage Convention which was established in 1972, recognised various sites of cultural and natural importance around the world. After the latest addition to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, India now has 38 World Heritage Sites and that makes India the country with the 6^th largest number of World Heritage Sites in the world.
• MANAS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
  • On a gentle slope in the foothills of the Himalayas where wooded hills give way to alluvial grasslands and tropical forests, lies the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. Manas Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare and endangered wildlife species such as Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur, Hispid Hare and the Assam Roofed Turtle.
• GREAT HIMALAYAN NATIONAL PARK
  • Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, the Great Himalayan National Park is one of India’s prominent national parks. The National Park was established in 1984 and is spared over an area of 1,171 sq km at an altitude between 1,500 and 6,000 m. In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.
  • The National Park protects over 800 plant species, including many medicinal herbs, 31 mammal species and 209 bird species, as well as amphibian species, reptile species and insect species. A trek of 35 to 45 km in any of the park’s valleys brings one into the high altitude habitat (3,500 m and above) of animals such as Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Brown Bear, Himalayan Tahr and Musk Deer. Best sightings can be made in autumn (September-November) as animals start their seasonal migration to lower altitudes.
• NANDA DEVI & VALLEY OF FLOWERS NATIONAL PARKS
  • The Nanda Devi National Park or Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, established in 1982 is a national park situated around the peak of Nanda Devi (7,816 m) in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. The gentle landscape of the Valley of Flowers National Park complements the rugged mountain wilderness of Nanda Devi National Park. Together they encompass a transition zone between the mountain ranges of the Zanskar and Great Himalaya. The National Park was inscribed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.
  • Nanda Devi National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Some 312 floral species that include 17 rare species have been found here. Fir, birch, rhododendron and juniper are the main flora. Common larger mammals found in this National Park are Himalayan Musk Deer, Mainland Serow and Himalayan Tahr. Goral are not found within, but in the vicinity of the park. Carnivores are represented by Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear and perhaps also Brown Bear.
  • One of the most picturesque and colourful natural sights in India is the Valley of Flowers National Park. Nestled in Uttarakhand, this National Park is famous for its charming meadows of alpine flowers. Legends believe it to be the place from where Hanuman collected the Sanjeevanibuti for curing Laxman. This National Park has floral pastures, running streams and beautiful backdrop of mountains. The valley was declared a national park in 1982 and is a World Heritage Site.
• WESTERN GHATS
  • The Western Ghats, also known as Sahyadri (Benevolent Mountains), are a massive mountain range that covers an area of 1,40,000 square kilometres parallel to the western coast of the Indian peninsula, traversing the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the eight “hottest hot-spots” of biological diversity in the world. According to UNESCO, the Western Ghats are older than the Himalayas. They influence Indian monsoon weather patterns by intercepting the rain-laden monsoon winds that sweep in from the south-west during late summer.
  • The area has over 7,402 species of flowering plants, 1,814 species of non-flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species, 179 amphibian species, 6,000 insect species and 290 freshwater fish species. It is likely that many undiscovered species live in the Western Ghats. At least 325 globally threatened species exist in the Western Ghats.
  • The major river systems originating in the Western Ghats are the Godavari, Kaveri, Krishna, Thamiraparani and Tungabhadra rivers. The majority of streams draining the Western Ghats join these rivers, and carry a large volume of water during the monsoon months.
• Text : Shri Pallab Bose

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 14, 2019

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp, a First Day Cover and Information Brochure as a tribute to the yeoman service and supreme sacrifices made by the “silent warriors” and devoted trainers of the RVC.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 600440

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Remount Veterinary Corps has been carrying on the great traditions of dedication, valour and sacrifice written on Indian battlefields since ancient times through animals trained for effective use in war tactics as Force Multipliers.
• Remount Veterinary Corps was raised in 1779 in Bengal, initially with the name “Stud Department”. It has witnessed many transformations over the years and was given the present name of the “Remount Veterinary Corps” in 1960 after Military Farms were separated from it as an independent Corps. The Corps is one of the oldest services of Indian Army and has a glorious past. It has distinguished itself by undertaking the arduous task of converting the strength of mute animals into a formidable force thus synchronizing the saga of Indian valour of yore with the finest tenets of modern day tactical warfare. The Corps Motto “PASHU SEVA ASMAKAM DHARMA” i.e. “SERVICE TO ANIMALS IS OUR DUTY” sums up the duties and role entrusted to it.
• The Remount Veterinary Corps is extensively involved in provisioning, scientific breeding, rearing, providing specialized training of horses, mules and dogs and their issue to Indian Army as Force Multipliers. Army dogs are trained in mine detection, explosive detection, guard/attack, infantry patrol, search and rescue and avalanche rescue operations. The Corps provides complete vet cover to these army animals and is also actively engaged in conduct of several high tech applied research projects in the field of veterinary science. Central Mil Vet Lab (CMVL) at Meerut Cantt has the rare distinction of being the country’s only NABL accredited vet lab with ISO/IEC 17025: 2005 Standards in the field of biological testing and advanced diagnostics.
• The unique saga of dedication, valour and sacrifice of RVC trained equines and canines alongwith their trainers is reflected in multifarious force multiplying roles played by these mute warriors in aid of army and paramilitary forces during war and peacetime ops. They have rendered invaluable assistance to civilian authorities in times of natural disasters & calamities such as assistance during Bhuj earthquake (26 Jan 2001), Tsunami (26 Dec 2004), J&K earthquake (08 Oct 2005) and Leh cloudburst (06 Aug 2010). These “silent warriors” have established themselves as “force multipliers” and have always remained in the forefront for guarding the nation’s interests. The Corps has actively participated in both World Wars and post independence, it has been integrally involved in the J&K Operations (1947-48); NEFA Operations (1962) and Indo-Pak wars of 1965 & 1971. RVC Units were actively involved in IPKF operations in Sri Lanka and played a crucial role in “Op Vijay” during Kargil war of 1999 in meeting the emergent operational requirements of animal transport in far flung posts.
• RVC Units have also been deeply involved in counter-insurgency ops in the ongoing Low Intensity Conflict Operations (LICO) in Northern and Eastern Command theatres. These RVC trained canines have proved their phenomenal capabilities in detecting explosives/IEDs, mines, tracking terrorists/saboteurs, guarding vital installations in hazardous climatic conditions and inhospitable terrain thus saving thousands of lives of soldiers/civilians and vital equipments.
• RVC has played a unique role in development of equestrian sports in IA. The recent silver medal winning team in equestrian eventing comprised three riders trained at AEN, RVC C&C of which two riders were from RVC which speaks volumes of its contributions.
• The Corps has also contributed significantly to India’s peace keeping efforts around the troubled parts of the Globe by being part of Indian Peace Keeping contingents under aegis of the United Nations. Presently the Corps is a part of three major UN Peace Keeping Missions viz. UNIFIL (Lebanon) and two missions in UNMISS (Sudan).
• The plethora of awards and honours garnered by the Corps are testimony to its high standards and excellence. The honours and awards include 1 Shaurya Chakra, 7 Sena Medals (Gallantry), 3 Sena Medals (Distinguished), 1 Param Vishisht Sewa Medal, 11 Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE), 5 Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), 15 Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), 25 Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), 1 Arjuna Award, 273 COAS Commendation Card (Army Dogs), 21 UN Force Commander’s Commendation.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 27, 2018

Issued for : To mark this event, Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of five Commemorative Postage Stamps on Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup 2018.

Design : The Miniature sheet has unique & attractive shape. In a first, away from the usual rectangular and square shapes, the Miniature Sheet depicting these stamps has a unique stamp to not only celebrate the spirit of hockey but also to attract the youth to the fold of Philately.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Kamleshwar Singh

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (5)

Stamps Printed : 503900 each

Miniature Sheets Printed : 130000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Hockey is one of the most ancient games perhaps even older than the Olympics. In the Indian subcontinent, Hockey spread with the advent of British rule in the late 19^th century. The first ever hockey club was established in Calcutta in 1885. This was followed by establishment of a number of clubs in different parts of the country. On 7^th November 1925 all these clubs assembled in Gwalior and formed Indian Hockey Federation (IHF). IHF got authorization from International Hockey Federation (FIH) in 1927 which paved the way for India’s participation in the Summer Olympic Games of 1928 at Amsterdam in which the Indian Team won the Gold Medal. This was followed by 5 consecutive Olympic Gold Medals in Hockey in Los Angeles Olympics (1932), Berlin Olympics (1936), London Olympics (1948), Helsinki Olympics (1952) and Melbourne Olympics (1956). To date, Indian Men’s Hockey Team has won eight Gold, one Silver and two Bronze medals.
• The capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar is hosting the prestigious Odisha Hockey Men’s World Cup Bhubaneswar 2018 from 28^th November to 16^th December, 2018. The Men’s Hockey World Cup is an international field hockey competition organised by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The tournament was started in 1971. It is held every four years, bridging the four years between the Summer Olympics.
• This is the 14^th edition of the biggest tournament in Men’s Hockey alongside the Olympics. It is for the third time that India is hosting this tournament starting organized it in 1982 at Mumbai and in 2010 at New Delhi. This year’s tournament will make India only the second nation to host three World Cups, after Netherlands who hosted it on three occasions: 1973, 1998 and 2014. A total of sixteen teams from around the world are participating in the quadrennial event which is being held at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium that can house 15000 people with addition of new stands and galleries. It is only the second time in the history of the competition that sixteen teams will be competing for the title. A total of 36 matches would be played over a span of 19 days in the tournament where the sixteen teams will be divided into four Pools of four teams each.
• Hockey India is the apex body of the country which has the sole mandate to govern and conduct all activities for both men and women hockey in India. It is recognized as the National Sports Federation by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India and is also affiliated to the International Hockey Federation (FIH), the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Asian Hockey Federation (AHF). Government of Odisha is the sponsor of both the Men’s and Women’s National Hockey Teams in a partnership with Hockey India (HI) till 2023. The craze of Hockey amongst the public in Odisha has seen the state grow into a global hub for the sport, with several players emerging to represent the Indian National team. This initiative is the first of its kind for any State Government. Government of Odisha, has partnered with FIH and Hockey India to provide their support to the sport and have been making preparations throughout the State to welcome thousands of tourists from around the world who are expected to visit to witness the action.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 25, 2017

Issued for : Every generation is required to be conscious of their responsibility towards nature. To bring the awareness in the students, Department of Posts chose Nature: India as a topic for Stamp Design Competition organised across the country for the Republic Day 2017. The participants were to send original entries on the theme “Nature: India”. Based on selected entries Stamps, Miniature Sheet, Maxim Cards, First Day Cover and Brochure are based on the entries submitted by Mr. Krishna Debnath, Mr. S. Keerthivassan, Mrs. Tripti Dutta, Ms. Pooja, Mr. Souvik Datta, Ms. Souramita Bhaumik, Mr. Suyash Goyal, Ms. Debasmita Chakraborty, Mr. Akshat Pamawat, Ms. Mehr Vig, Ms. Yamini K, Mr. Divyansh Sharma, Ms. Aparajita Biswas, Ms. Jetshree Sharma and Ms. V. Aishwaria.

Credits :
Stamp / Miniature Sheet / FDC / Brochure / Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta, based on selected paintings submitted by participants.

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (6)

Stamps Printed : 301590 each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The “Nature” is a storehouse of joy, peace and pleasure. Nature is like a Philosopher’s stone that has the potential to transform its surroundings with its presence itself. Nature can provide a new lease of life to a fatigued mind or a weary body. The kind of comfort and consolation that can be felt in the lap of nature is described by the poets, bands and wandering minstrels. The flowing rivulets, the sounding cataracts, the whispering winds, the joyful flowers and the lofty mountains are only some of the manifestations of that divine beauty.
• The Bliss of being touched by any aspect of the vast Nature can be seen in the world’s greatest poetic and philosophical expressions. There can be no better mediation that being in touch with the Nature. It has a healing touch of its own. The lovers of Nature immerse themselves in listening to the melodious songs of larks, watching the clouds moving majestically across the sky, and manage to witness the joyful dance of peacock on a rainy day. They can spend hours looking at the starry heavens and absorb the beauty of a rainbow in the sky. They do not forget to see the sublime in the ephemeral.
• Where Nature is a source of joy, it is also a great teacher. The fruitful trees teach us to be humble; the mountains teach us to be strong and firm; the flowers teach us to smile and blossom even when we are surrounded by the thorns of life. The wildlife in Nature teach us harmony and balance in life. It reveals the oneness of life.
• Nature is permeated with the same soul that dwells in men. There is a kinship between man and nature. But our relationship with nature is also of imbalance and overuse. Nearly every step in human history has unfortunately been accompanied with a leap in environmental degradation. Apart from achieving stability for ourselves and our kin, we also have an obligation to maintain the environment, as we depend on the resources and services it provides. Our cognitive ability and understanding of nature obliges us to maintain the integrity of the environment. In order for the Earth to retain its balance, it is important that we do not overstep our bounds as a species. This requires a universal effort to revaluate our relationship with nature and make adjustments as needed. It is important to recognise a rippling of consequences that are being faced because of Man’s intervention with the nature.
• Text : Based on the material available on internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jul 29, 2016

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to release a set of two stamps on Tadoba Andhari National Park.

Credits :
Stamp / FDC / Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 2500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.3 million each

Miniature Sheet printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Tadoba Andhari National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of the finest & largest National Parks in Maharashtra. It is an important Project Tiger Reserves in India. This beautiful natural area is situated close to Chandrapur District of Maharashtra. It was in 1955 when 116.55 sq. km. of the area was declared a National Park. Later, the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary was created in the adjacent forests in 1986. In 1995, both the park and the sanctuary were merged to establish the present tiger reserve.
• The Tadoba Andhari National Park has an endless treasure trove of large number of species of trees & plants and wildlife like panthers, tigers, hyenas, sloth bears, wild dogs, jackals, barking deer, bison, sambar, to name a few. Overshadowed by teak & bamboo, and with a magical landscape of rugged cliffs, marshlands, lakes, etc., it has a large variety of flora and fauna, which makes it a popular tourist spot.
• The name ‘Tadoba’ is derived from the name of God “Tadoba” or “Taru”. The Gond kings were known to have once ruled the forests in the vicinity of the Chimur hills. It is believed that Taru was a village chief who was killed in a fierce encounter with a tiger and a shrine was built in his memory. The name “Andhari” is derived from the Andhari river which flows through the Park.
• The Andhari River, Erai Dam, Kolsa Lake, Junoria Lake and the Tadoba Lake form the lifeline of the park. The river and water storage systems provide year long supply of fresh water to this amazing ecosystem. Besides, small water bodies, rivulets and creeks also exist in the confines of the dense forests, in plains, and, in the hills. Man made water holes and small dams in the area add to the life sustaining environment. These factors explain the prolific bio diversity of the region.
• The vegetation of the forest is of Southern tropical dry deciduous type. Teak is the prominent tree species in the Tadoba forest. Besides teak, some other common trees found in the Park are Ain (Crocodile Bark), Bija, Dhaudab, Hald, Salai, Semal, Shisham, Mahua Madhuca (Crepe Myrtle) and Bamboo. In addition, Axlewood Anogeissus Latifolia, a fire-resistant species, is also found here, along with Buteamonosperma, which adds vivacious color to this forest. Arjun trees are also found at Panchadhara.
• A major part of this forest is in the hilly area of the Chimur Hills, and the Andhari sanctuary covers Moharali & Kolsa ranges. As a result, there are many hillocks and terrains which provide shelter to wild animals. Besides the species of Bengal Tiger, this park is home to other mammals like Sloth Bear, Leopard, Rusty Spotted Cat, Gaur (Indian Bison), Indian Mouse Deer, Ratel, Sambar, Wild Pig, Spotted Deer, Flying Squirrel, Four Horned Antelope, to name a few. As soon the night falls, the Small Indian Civet, the Palm Civet, the Ratel, and the Flying squirrel make their presence felt.
• Tadoba National Park is a popular tiger reserve that is popularly known as ‘The Land of Tigers‘ as large number of tigers are found here. The total area under the Project Tiger includes the core area and the buffer zone. The core area concept denotes critical tiger habitat, which is subject to intense conservation measures with minimal human intervention.
• Historically, the Bengal Tiger is known to have arrived in the Indian Subcontinent approximately 12,000 years ago. The Bengal tiger’s coat is yellow to light orange, with stripes ranging from dark brown to black; the belly and the interior parts of the limbs are white, and the tail is orange with black rings. The white tiger is a recessive mutant of the Bengal tiger, which is reported in the wild from time to time in Assam, Bengal, Bihar and especially from the former State of Rewa.
• Male Bengal tigers have an average total length of 270 to 310 cm (110 to 120 in) including the tail, while females measure 240 to 265 cm (94 to 104 in) on an average. The tail is typically 85 to 110 cm (33 to 43 in) long, and on an average, tigers are 90 to 110 cm (35 to 43 in) in height at the shoulders. The weight of males ranges from 180 to 258 kg (397 to 569 lb), while that of the females ranges from 100 to 160 kg (220 to 350 lb).
• Bengal tigers are territorial, and except for the core unit of mother and cub, they are solitary creatures. Each male tiger needs a large territory in which to hunt and mate. Once a Bengal establishes a home range, it usually sticks to it, and remains aware and respectful of other tiger’s ranges. However, due to rapid industrial development and continuing poaching activities during the last century, a sizable percentage of the tiger population, not only in India, but across the World, has been reducing substantially. At present the Bengal Tiger is listed under “Endangered” category in the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) red list of threatened species.
• Tigers are a conservation dependent species. The Bengal tiger subspecies is at the top of the food chain in the wild. Tigers are also a vital link in maintaining the rich diversity of nature. When tigers are protected, we have so much more. For example, with just one tiger, we protect around 25,000 acres of forest. These ecosystems supply both nature and people with fresh water, food, and health.
• Text : Based on the material available on the internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 3, 2015

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to issue a commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of celebration of centenary year of Zoological Survey of India.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Miniature Sheet : Suresh Kumar
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 2500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.5 Million & 0.25 Million

Miniature Sheet : 0.1 Million (3000 p)

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India is very rich in terms of biological diversity due to its unique biogeographical location, diversified climatic conditions and enormous ecodiversity and geodiversity. According to the world biogeographic classification, India represents two of the major realms (the Palaearctic and Indo-Malayan) and three biomes (Tropical Humid Forests, Tropical Dry/Deciduous Forests and Warm Deserts/Semi-Deserts). With only about 2.4% of world’s total land surface, India is known to have over 7.50% of the species of animals that the world holds and this percentage accounts for nearly about 92,000 species so far known.
  
• The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) was established on 1^st July, 1916 to promote survey, exploration and research leading to the advancement in our knowledge on various aspects of the exceptionally rich animal diversity of the Indian subcontinent. The survey has its genesis in the Museum of the Asiatic Society of Bengal (1814-1875) and the Zoological Section of the Indian Museum (1875-1916) in Kolkata. By gradually strengthening its staff and expanding its research programmes, the Survey has met the challenge of the past and is on its way to meet the demands of the future. The scope and functions of Zoological Survey of India have been considerably expanded, particularly in the light of the Convention on Biological Diversity, ratified by the Government of India in 1994. To meet the challenges of biodiversity conservation, sustainable utilization and dissemination of knowledge on faunal diversity to all stake holders, recently, the Survey has been working at augmenting its research infrastructure.
  
• With the increasing interest in the life sciences and with the advent of country’s Five Year Plans, the expansion programme of the survey was taken up. The Survey has established 16 Regional and Field Stations so far, and has developed into a major National Institution with its Headquarters at Kolkata. It functions as the guardian of the National Zoological Collections, containing over a million identified specimens from all animal groups ranging from Protozoa to Mammals. Extensive and intensive field explorations are undertaken by the survey in different parts of the country for the studies of fauna, systematic zoology, animal ecology, wildlife and zoogeography, animal behaviour, animal population and also marine fauna and the results of the explorations and research are published regularly in its own journals as well as National and International periodicals of repute. Recently efforts have been made towards an integrated approach to zoological investigations, so as to have more purpose oriented research comprising biological, cytotaxonomic, and ecological aspects.
  
• Zoological Survey of India has been monitoring services on population status of commercially important species of fauna and providing input for underutilized, culturable species both from terrestrial and aquatic systems. Zoological Survey of India also provides timely warning on declining population of species of commercial importance to ensure sustainable use of components of biological diversity.
  
• Besides regularly providing identification and advisory services to research establishments, including more than two hundred Universities in India, the Survey also provides short term trainings in the art of taxidermy to candidates sponsored by different organizations. It has continued to maintain its objectives of taxonomic research, survey and documentation of Indian fauna. It also organizes an annual training programme in collection, preservation and identification of insects and mites of economic importance.
  
• Zoological Survey of India is approaching 100 years of its service to the nation and is an important knowledge Bank for future India. It assists the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India in the conservation of fauna of the country.
  
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 29, 2015

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the occasion of the 3^rd India–Africa Forum Summit.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC : Suresh Kumar
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 p (4), 2500 p (2)

Stamps Printed : 0.5 Million Each

Miniature Sheet : 0.2 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Third India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS–III) is to be held from 26-29 October, 2015 in New Delhi. The first two Summits were held in 2008 in New Delhi and in 2011 in Addis Ababa. The IAFS-III will be the first India–Africa Summit where Leaders of all 54 African countries, with whom India has diplomatic relations, have been invited to participate.
• The India–Africa strategic partnership flows from the longstanding maritime trading and cultural links across the Indian Ocean; the presence of substantial Indian Diaspora in Africa that is an active participant in the economic development in Africa and forms a special bond; the common struggle of our leaders against imperialism, colonialism and apartheid; the collective action to demand a more just and fair international political and economic order that is sensitive to developing countries concerns at international fora; the rapidly growing trade and investment links and an extensive and growing development partnership and the bilateral friendly relations between India and the countries of Africa.
• The multifaceted India–Africa development partnership based on equality, friendship and solidarity represents South-South cooperation in all its dimensions. This encompasses human resource development through scholarships, training, capacity building; financial assistance through grants and soft credit to implement various public goods projects, including those for education, healthcare and infrastructure; trade preferences; technology collaborations; humanitarian financial and in kind assistance in emergency situations; deployment of peacekeeping troops who also conduct a range of development and humanitarian tasks; cooperation in negotiations in multilateral fora for common causes and concerns, among others.
• India–Africa trade has multiplied over twenty times in the last fifteen years and doubled in the last five years to reach US$ 72 billion in 2014-2015. Investment by Indian companies into Africa has also grown significantly and is estimated to be in the range of US$ 30-35 billion.
• Since the Second India–Africa Forum Summit, over 24,000 scholarships have been provided to African countries. These include more than 300 training programmes conducted at over 60 institutions in addition to the higher education scholarships at various universities.
• In the last decade, a total of almost US$ 9 billion in concessional credit has been approved for nearly 140 projects in more than 40 African countries by Government of India, with special emphasis on LDCs (Least Developed Countries) and SIDS (Small Island Developing States) partners in view of their special challenges and requirements. So far nearly 60 projects have been completed.
• The Third India-Africa Forum Summit is taking place in a year that marks the 70^th anniversary of the United Nations. It is the first since the achievement of 50 years of pan-Africanism and African Renaissance and shortly following the landmark adoption of the Agenda 2063 by the African Union. It is also the first since the landmark 50^th anniversary of the Group of 77 last year. The Summit follows weeks after the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the deliberations held at the Third International Conference for Financing for Development in Addis Ababa a few months ago. 2015 is also the year when the 21^st meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP 21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Paris will finalize a post 2020 Agreement on Climate Change as also a World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial that will be held in Nairobi. India and Africa have worked together to develop a common understanding of our core priorities for an inclusive economic growth to eradicate poverty and allocate adequate resources for sustainable development.
• The Third India–Africa Forum Summit is expected to provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the longstanding friendship between India and Africa and to chart the course of our strategic partnership going forward.
• Text : Based on the material provided by proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 21, 2015

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to release a commemorative postage stamp on completion of 50 years of Glorious Service of the Border Security Force.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.8 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The challenge of effective policing of Indo-Pak border rose immediately after Independence. At that time, and till 1965, the various Police units entrusted with security of the border were functioning largely under the control of the State governments. The organization, standard of the training and scales of the equipments differed from one unit to another and there was lack of coordination amongst all border guiding units.
  
• Pakistan‘s deliberate and calculated incursion in the areas of India territory in January 1965 led to a localized offensive by its regular Army. It was in context of these early developments that the then Prime Minister of India desired a thorough review of security arrangements at the borders against Pakistan be carried out and, if necessary, a Central Force be established.
  
• In January 1965, the Emergency Committee of Secretaries, set up a Study Group to undertake an examination of the possibility of streamlining and reducing the multiplicity of Paramilitary Forces in the border area, and consider the formation of a Border Police Force that could relieve the Army of Border Defense and related responsibilities during normal times and also supplement the military efforts in times of hostile confrontations or actual hostilities.
  
• The recommendation of the Study Group was accepted by the Government of India and the Border Security Force (BSF) came into being on 1^st December, 1965, with 25 Battalions, under the charismatic leadership of Shri K. F. Rustamji.
  
• The Force was constituted under the then CRPF Act. Later, the Parliament passed, BSF Act & Rules which were published in official Gazette on 2^nd September, 1968 and 13^th June, 1969 respectively.
  
• The Border Security Force was constituted as an Armed Force of the Union in 1965 for guiding the Nation’s International Borders. Originally, the main role given to BSF was divided into two main categories i.e. Peace Time Role and War Time Role. Although, the concept of Border Security has undergone a sea change with the growing vulnerability of the borders, yet the Peace and War Time Role of BSF have remained the same as under:–
  • The BSF, played a commendable role in the struggle for the liberation of Bangladesh and in the subsequent conflict with Pakistan. Its contribution to our victory over Pakistan has been widely acclaimed.
  • During the 1971 Indo–Pak war, BSF fought shoulder to shoulder with Army against Pakistan regular and irregular troops in defensive as well as offensive actions. It bore the initial brunt of the war and provided a screen behind which the Army could deploy. It held strong points in front of the main defense against the repeated attacks by Pakistan regular troops supported by tanks and in the face of some of the heaviest artillery shelling. It also undertook many notable offensive actions like capturing enemy’s strong points held by regular troops of Pakistan. In many instances BSF made deep advances and captured large areas in Bangladesh and in the Western Sector. The BSF personnel made supreme sacrifices during the war and were decorated with numerous medals for their act of gallantry.
  • Presently, the BSF is also sending its UN peace keeping contingents to Congo and Haiti. It is also sending security personnel to the High Commission at Colombo. In the past, the organization had also sent personnel on UN missions in countries like Cambodia, Kosovo, Bosnia etc.
  • Over the years, the Border Security Force has witnessed diversification of peace-time role from its distinctive functions of border security and surveillance to Internal Security duties on account of internal disorder and violent social discontent in the country. The additional responsibilities entrusted to BSF include counter insurgency operations, election duties, aid to civil authorities during natural calamities, law & order duties, anti-naxal operations etc.
  • The force which started with a modest holding of 25 Battalions expanded in a gradual manner to 186 Battalions including three DM (Disaster Management) Battalions.
    
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent.

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