Issued by India

Issued on Nov 24, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts is proud to release a set of two commemorative stamps on Platinum Jubilee of IIT Kharagpur. The Institute will complete seventy-five years on 18^th August 2026, marking a remarkable journey of excellence in education, research, and innovation. These stamps have been released as part of the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations, playing tribute to the institution’s outstanding contribution to nation-building and technological advancement.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation cachet : Ms. Kanika

Type : Se–tenant pair of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 306300 each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• IIT Kharagpur is the first and the largest IIT in the country, established on 18 August, 1951. It began its journey in the old Hijli Detention Camp with only 224 students and 42 teachers. Since then, it has grown into a powerhouse of education, research, and innovation. In 2019, the Government of India recognised IIT Kharagpur as an Institute of Eminence, reflecting its significant contribution to academia and industry.
• Today, the campus spans over 2,200 acres and hosts a vibrant community of more than 17,000 students, over 770 faculty members, and around 930 staff members. The Institute comprises 21 academic departments, 11 schools, and 25 centres. These include 12 Centres of Excellence and 2 Academies, all fostering groundbreaking research and innovation.
• Beyond engineering and technical education, IIT Kharagpur offers multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary academic programmes. These span fields such as management, law, humanities, precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, social and economic sciences, medical science and technology, classical and folk arts.
• The overall mission of the Institute is to foster a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation among its students. It aims to attract the finest minds in science, technology, management, and law to further teaching and research. The Institute is also committed to undertaking sponsored research and providing consultancy services in industrial, educational, and socially relevant domains, thereby contributing meaningfully to society and the nation.
• In the years ahead, the Institute aspires to be counted among the top ten universities in the world. It seeks to become a global centre of excellence in education and research, producing visionary leaders in science, technology, and management. The Institute aims to be a hub for cutting-edge knowledge creation in areas of national and global importance. Above all, it is committed to contributing towards improving the quality of life for every citizen of the country.
• With over 1,160 ongoing sponsored research and consultancy projects. IIT Kharagpur plays a pivotal role in national and international missions. It remains a leader in higher education and technology development.
• Innovations by faculty and students include Covirap, the iMedex telemedicine system, PUBBS, the Deekshak e-classroom platform, an AI-based system for monitoring social distancing, ultra-high corrosion-resistant stainless steel for Indian space missions, the Painless Needle, Cell Patterning, 2G Ethanol, iWeld, iToFD, circular economy initiatives, low-cost AI meteorological systems, robotic solutions for plant disease detection and treatment, and novel techniques for tracing ancient seasons and climate change, among many others. These achievements have propelled the Institute to global recognition.
• IIT Kharagpur was ranked third among the IITs, fourth in India, and 222^nd in the word in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It secured second place in India in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2025. According to the NIRF 2024 rankings, the Institute placed sixth overall, fifth in Engineering and Research, second in Architecture, and ninth in Innovation. It also ranked 45^th in the Pitchbook University Rankings 2024.
• The Institute has forged academic partnerships with prestigious foreign universities including Purdue University, Virginia Tech, UCLA, the University of Edinburgh, the University of Manchester, the University of California, Warwick, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan, the University of Ulm in Germany, Georgia Tech, and the Universities of Kyoto, Tokyo, and Singapore. These collaborations strengthen India’s academic footprint on the global stage.
• The commemorative stamps feature artistic depictions of two iconic towers of IIT Kharagpur. The Old Tower, part of the Hijli Saheed Bhawan, represents the Institute’s rich heritage.
• Text : Reference from the content provided by Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 11, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is delighted to issue Commemorative Postage Stamp, on Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and salutes to the Spirit of India, proud of its rich past & heritage and committed to the future of Viswa Guru Bharat.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation cachet : Shri Sankha Samanta

Type : Se–tenant pair of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 201600 each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) is a landmark initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture, and achievements. This Mahotsav is dedicated to the people of India who have not only been instrumental in bringing India thus far in its evolutionary journey but also hold within them the power and potential to enable Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of activating India 2.0, fuelled by the spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
• The official journey of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav commenced on 12^th March 2021 from Sabarmati Ashram where a symbolic ‘Dandi Yatra’ was flagged off by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. This started a 75-week countdown to our 75^th anniversary of Independence and will conclude, post a year on 15^th August, 2023.
• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav has been powered by the enthusiasm, love for the nation and participation of all stakeholders. The events and initiatives of Amrit Mahotsav cover the length and breadth of India and the world. Till date more than 1.5 lakh events have been held under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. These events have happened across different locations within India covering all of the States and Union Territories as well as across 150+ countries, globally.
• Amrit Mahotsav events are high on Janbhagidari (people participation) bringing in people from all walks of life representing a ‘Whole of Society’ approach with many programmes and events being directly initiated by organisations and groups representing civil society.
• During the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative, held in August 2022, more than 6 crore selfies with flag were recorded and people from all walks of life joined the Tiranga Rallies being held across the length and breadth of India and across foreign locations.
• A key feature of Amrit Mahotsav is the commemoration of Unsung Heroes of freedom struggle & highlighting the role of people in our Independence movement. The AKAM website has a special section on Unsung Heroes which is an attempt to recall and remember forgotten heroes of our freedom struggle, many of whom might be renowned yet unknown to the new generation. Different events commemorating birth and death anniversaries of freedom fighters and important milestones connected to the struggle for Independence are an important part of the AKAM event calendar. Picture books that chronicle the contributions of women and tribals in the freedom struggle of India have also been released to enable children to easily connect with the stories that facilitated our freedom and progress over time.
• Digital District Repository is another special initiative of AKAM that chronicles district wise narratives of our history and heritage. It stemmed from the central thought that history is not only about the landmark events, it finds shape and character in the myriad events that led up to a flashpoint of change. Interesting facts that there are prison cells in IIT or that 2 freedom fighters were shot dead inside what is now an IIT in an incident, known later as the “Hijli firing”, when twenty nine rounds were fired on unarmed prisoners, have been highlighted over events.
• Amrit Mahotsav is also about looking towards the future as we navigate through ‘Amrit Kaal’ (the journey from Now to India@100). One important aspect of looking into the future is spotlighting and celebrating startups, entrepreneurs, and innovation. Smart India Hackathon 2022 is a nationwide initiative to provide students a platform to solve some of the pressing problems we face in our daily lives, and thus inculcate a culture of product innovation and a mindset of problem solving. Another part of fueling a growth culture in encouraging curiosity and celebrating the role of science & scientists in the progress of our nation. A week-long event titled ‘Vigyan Sarvatra Pujyate’ was held last year in 75 locations across the length and breadth of the country. To honor this intent, it will be repeated this year with increased scope and scale. ‘Swadeshi Scientists’ is a series of event curated as part of Amrit Mahotsav that chronicles the role of scientists in the freedom struggle and in helping realize India’s ‘Atmanirbhar’ goals.
• Text : Ministry of Culture.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jun 25, 2020

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue six pairs of se-tenant Commemorative Postage Stamps on Musical Instruments of Wandering Minstrels.

Credits :
Stamps/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Sankha Samanta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (12)

Stamps Printed : 500000 each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India boasts of an ancient and rich musical tradition. A study of musical texts, paintings and sculptures from prehistoric times to the present day would reveal the continuity of the musical traditions of India. Musical instruments appear in the drawings and paintings (dating back to the Mesolithic era) of Bhimbetka rock shelters which is a World Heritage Site. Evidence of dance and music has been found in the excavations of the Harappan Civilization too.
• Music combines vocal or instrumental sounds for emotional expression. Musical instruments represent music in a tangible form. A study of musical instruments helps in tracing the evolution of music and also explains many aspects of the culture of the group of people using these instruments. In the Natya Shastra, compiled by Bharata Muni, musical instruments have been divided into four main categories on the basis of how sound is produced: (i) The Tata Vadya or Chordophones – Stringed instruments; (ii) The Sushira Vadya or Aerophones – Wind instruments; (iii) The Avanaddha Vadya or Membranophones – Percussion instruments; and (iv) The Ghana Vadya or Idiophones – Solid instruments which do not require tuning.
• Wandering minstrels are performers who travel from place to place performing musical acts. They have been an integral part of musical traditions of India. They composed songs to glorify their patrons and legendary heroes and inspired many dramatists of the classical Sanskrit theatre to write dramas. The charm of wandering minstrels lies in their songs and music. These wandering minstrels singing and playing on roads and streets in villages and towns at festive occasions, private as well as public, have always been a common sight in India. The soothing effect of the songs of wandering minstrels and the music mingled with their emotions and thoughts complement the force of love and goodwill directed towards the people. Beyond their functional utility, musical instruments used by wandering minstrels are aesthetically pleasing and capture the local cultural elements of various regions of India.
• Kamaicha belonging to the chordophone category is a bowed instrument with a big bowl shaped skin covered resonator, a rectangular finger board and a round peg box. Three main gut strings and eight drone steel strings are attached to a metal hook, passed over the bridge and tied to the pegs. It is played with a bow made of Shisham wood and horse hair. It is used by the Manganiar community of West Rajasthan as a popular accompaniment to their songs.
• Ravanahatha, also of the chordophone category, comprises a resonator made of coconut shell and a long bamboo finger board fixed to it. The main playing string is made of horse hair whereas another playing string and 16 sympathetic strings are made of steel. It is played with a bow made of curved wooden stick and horse hair. It is used for vocal accompaniment by Bhopas of Rajasthan in a traditional narrative from called Pabuji Ki Phad.
• Surando is an ancient folk musical instrument of the chordophone category traditionally used by the Fakirani Jat community of Kutch. It is a stringed musical instrument played with the use of a bow called Gaz or Gazi in the local dialect. The body of the instrument is preferably made of a single piece of lahirro wood to create the most precise shape and perfect melody. The bow comprises strings of horse’s hair or gut fastened to each of a flexible stick. The bow is placed on the strings at right angles to it and is moved back and forth across it.
• Algoza belonging to the aerophone category, comprises a set of two equal sized bamboo, beaked flutes with five finger holes and a fipple hole on each flute. Both the flutes are blown simultaneously by the player. It is used by the Meo community of Alwar, Rajasthan as an accompaniment to their folk and tribal songs.
• Burrakatha is an oral storytelling technique in the Jangam Katha tradition, performed in the villages of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Burrakatha Dakki is a pitcher shaped brass vessel with a short neck and a round belly. It belongs to the membranophone category. The wider end is covered with skin with the help of a cotton cord through hoops and an iron ring. It is suspended from the neck and played by palms by Burrakatha balladeers.
• Ektara comprises a cylindrical wooden resonator with base covered with skin, attached to a split bamboo and a single steel string plucked rhythmically by the index finger. It belongs to the chordophone category. The split bamboo is manipulated to produce variations in tone. It is a common instrument in Baul music from Bengal and used by Bauls and mendicants of Odisha and neighboring regions as a drone instrument.
• Text : Based on information available on the internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 27, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a se-tenant Commemorative Postage Stamps on Safdarjung Hospital.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Designed by Sh. Anuj based on the photographs received from US Army Signal Corps, National Archives and Records Administration, United States and Ashoo Sharma
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Se–tenant pair of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 603500 each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• A major flagship hospital of the Government of India, Safdarjung Hospital is spread over a land area of 47 acres in the heart of Delhi. Citizens from different parts of the country, and many neighbouring countries, visit the facility to receive life-saving treatment. On most days, the hospital attends to around 1,400 emergencies, 8,000-9,000 out patients, and its three dozen wards play home to 2,500 to 3,500 patients. In its two labour rooms, more than 75 babies are born each day, while its 40 operation theatres hum 24×7 with surgeons operating on patients to offer them a new lease of life.
• The origin of this hospital can be traced back to year 1942. Dark clouds, billowing with smoke of World War II, were hanging heavy over the China-Burma-India war theatre. With the casualties mounting, the injured US soldiers needed immediate treatment. US Army Commander General Joseph Stillwell took an active decision to build the 100^th Station Hospital in Delhi. Soon a new hospital, popularly called the American Hospital, took shape in the newly erected army barracks. Strategically built close to the city’s lone airstrip, the Willingdon Airfield, the hospital commenced operations with 150 beds, an X-ray machine and operation theatres. US Army Medical Corps nurses and doctors worked round the clock in the hospital to salvage brave lives.
• The War ended, and soon, India became independent, a master of her own destiny. The Government of India decided to dedicate the wartime American hospital to her people. With its portals thrown open to the public, the hospital began operations with 204 beds and was rechristened as Safdarjung, after the Raja of Awadh Mogul General Abul Mansur Mirza Muhammad Muqim Ali Khan.
• In time, as the hospital grew brick by brick, inch-by-inch, new buildings were added, new departments came into being, and the facility grew with each passing year. While still in its early formative years, it became a temple of faith and hope for the sick. People came from far for treatment and healing.
• Since the 1950s, the hospital has been country’s major academic hub. Its clinical wards and laboratories have honed thousands of paramedics, nurses and MBBS, MD/MS and postdoctoral students. If in 1950s, its wards were the clinical training ground for the first few batches of students from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences; between 1972 and 1989, it was alma mater to the students of University College of Medical Sciences. Since 2002, the hospital has been a home for the students of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College. Over the years, many alumni of the hospital have found huge acclaim, and hold chairs of eminence globally.
• Down the ages, the faculty of the hospital has made a legendary contribution in the realm of academics, clinical research and patient care. In the 1960s, paediatrician Dr Shanti Ghosh flagged the mission of building neonatal nurseries in public hospitals, and is fondly remembered to this day as the mother of Neonatal Medicine in India. Orthopaedic surgeon Balu Sankaran founded the Artificial Limb Manufacturing Corporation of India in 1972 to aid the rehabilitation of soldiers injured during the Bangladesh war. Two years later, he set up the first rural rehabilitation training centre – the Swami Vivekanand National Institute of Rehabilitation Training and Research in Olatpur, Odisha. Anatomist Dr Ramji Das’s seminal work in neuro anatomy formed a part of the bible of the days, Gray’s Anatomy, while Sankaran’s surgical techniques waxed proud in Campbell’s Operative Orthopedics. Physiologist Dr Ramesh Bijlani carried out seminal research on the positive role of yoga in prevention and management of coronary heart disease.
• In 1982, plastic and micro vascular surgeon Dr. S. P. Balaji established the first micro vascular surgery centre in North India on his return from UK. Deeply devoted, he was soon to become a legend for his marathon single-handed 15- to 20-hour long surgeries. He developed many new surgical techniques, and rejoining severed limbs he performed Delhi’s first wrist, arm and leg replants. In 2000, he also established the first skin cell culture lab in Delhi. The early 1980s also saw a number of other pioneering developments: ENT surgeon PS Saharia devised a new septorhinoplasty technique for a twisted nasal partition; while Dr JC Suri established the country’s first public sleep lab and pulmonary critical care unit. Later, just before the Commonwealth Games 2010, the hospital acquired North India’s first Sports Injury Centre.
• Holding the flag of being the country’s largest public hospital, Safdarjung is all set to take wings to emerge as one of the finest world-class healthcare facility. The mission is noble and pious as the institution stands deeply committed to deliver affordable state-of-art healthcare to the people in a caring, friendly environment.
• Text : Based on the information received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 9, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a se-tenant Commemorative Postage Stamps on Central Industrial Security Force.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure : Sh. Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 600825, 500000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• In the security matrix of the country today, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is firmly and significantly entrenched. The elemental qualities of valour, strength and dedication have sculpted the force since its inception and further chiseling over the years have honed it into a multi-faceted and multi-dimensional armed force capable of effortlessly adapting itself to a fluid security scenario. By fully dedicating itself towards guarding and protecting industrial units and critical assets, CISF has contributed in a large measure to the rapid and stable growth of the country.
• From a modest beginning of around 3000 personnel in 1969, the CISF has grown to 1,49,088 personnel, with the Government further raising its ceiling to 1,80,000 in 2017. The pan-India deployment of the Force across 336 units has within its ambit diversified areas like Atomic Energy and Space Installations, Sea-Ports, Steel Plants, Coal Fields, Hydro-Electric and Thermal Power Plants, Defence production units, Fertilizer and Chemical Industries, Note printing Press/Mints, Heritage Monuments/Museums (Taj Mahal & Red Fort etc.). Beside this, CISF presence in 59 International and major airports of the country, Delhi Metro Rail and important Government buildings is a critical security commitment. The Force also provides VIP Security through its elite and specialized Special Security Group (SSG) commandos. The change in the charter of duties and responsibilities in 2009 has also brought private sector establishments under the security cover of CISF.
• The geographical spread of the Force includes sensitive areas, affected by terrorism and left wing extremism, in Jammu & Kashmir, the North East and the States falling within the Red Corridor. Operational preparedness of a high degree has enabled CISF to effectively thwart attacks by inimical forces.
• Cutting edge technology is synonymous with CISF, and the Force continuously adapts itself in myriad ways to take on a rapidly changing security scenario with concomitant challenges. Innovativeness and out-of-box thinking run parallel to dedication and commitment in the Force. Therefore, modernization, in terms of equipment and security gadgets is never lost sight of and a highly specialized R & D cell monitors this 24×7.
• CISF lays great emphasis on training of its officers and men and in line with this commitment, 2017 has been declared as the ‘Year of Training’. In the pursuit of excellence, training methods, ideas and concepts are relentlessly reviewed, de-freezed and set into optimal and benefit-accruing systems and processes. This equips the force with critical security vision as it moves from strength to strength, and enters deeply divergent and challenging areas of responsibility.
• The ”Lost and Found” system has been of immense help to the rightful owners in reclaiming their lost articles at airports and Delhi Metro. During the year, unclaimed property worth Rs. 38.44 crore at airports was recovered. Out of this property worth Rs. 10.26 Crore was handed over to the rightful owners and remaining Rs. 28.18 Crore has been deposited with the airport operators. Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), in collaboration with United Nation Development Programme (UNDP), awarded National Industrial Security Academy (NISA) for “Excellence in Training” for exceptional work in the category of “Trainer/Faculty Development”. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) awarded CISF with “FICCI SMART POLICING AWARD” in the category of other Policing Initiatives for launching “Lost and Found Web Application” on the CISF official website for items and valuables left behind by the commuters at the 59 airports. The National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) adjudged CISF “M-Power App” as the Best IT project amongst CAPFs in the category of empowering police with information technology. And for the fifth time, CISF won the “Best Marching Contingent” award in the Republic Day parade, 2017.
• CISF stands tall, strong and proud, protecting the nation and keeping its critical assets secure. The commitment and dedication of the Force remain steadfast. The confidence and trust that the Government has reposed on the Force, always acts as a motivator to achieve great heights of success. CISF will be celebrating its 50^th year i.e. Golden Jubilee from 10^th March, 2018.
• Text : Based on the information received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jun 28, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps on Banaras Hindu University.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Brahm Prakash

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 1500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 3.60 Lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Banaras Hindu University, founded by Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Ji in 1916 is the first truly residential Indian University established on the pattern of the universities at Nalanda and Taxila. The Banaras Hindu University (BHU), is not only one of the most prestigious Central Universities in the country, but is also the largest residential University in Asia. The scheme for the establishment of Banaras Hindu University was formulated in consultation with eminent freedom fighters and nationalists like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Surendra Nath Banerjee and had the support of prominent educationists and other representatives from all over the country.
• The confluence of oriental and theological learning with liberal arts, science and engineering, Ayurveda and modern systems of medicine and agriculture made BHU a unique Capital of Knowledge where East met West. The excellent infrastructural facilities, many of which were ahead of times for India, model campus life and the magnetic personality of Pt. Malaviyaji made BHU the most favored destination for the talented students and learned faculty from all parts of the country. Although designated as ‘The Benares Hindu University’, the National University has all along been a truly national institution open to persons of all classes, castes, creeds, and of both sexes without any discrimination whatsoever.
• The holistic model of education, conceived and enriched by its illustrious founder, Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya Ji, offers refreshing new perspectives to young minds and facilitates the accomplishment of their creative talents. Its contribution in extending the frontiers of knowledge in critical areas and also in the regeneration of the community values is well manifested throughout the world with its alumni occupying key positions in varied professional domains.
• The university has produced a galaxy of alumni in all walks of life who have been leaders in the national movement, in nation building after independence and in establishing its infrastructure through major industries such as steel, coal, minerals, energy, railways and water reservoirs/dams etc. This also includes developing institutions like the IITs, the IIMs, health education universities and agriculture universities/institutions.
• Its alumni have been Vice-President of India, Prime Ministers, Chief Justice of Supreme Court, Members of Parliament, holders of Bharat Ratna, Fellows of Royal Asiatic Society and numerous other bodies and organizations all over the country.
• The University is located on the western bank of holy river Ganga. It is spread over an area of 15 square kilometers with majestic buildings of great architectural delight. The University has 134 independent teaching departments, many of them recognized as Centres of Excellence, 2 interdisciplinary schools, 16 Faculties, one constituent college, 5 Institutes and 12 Centres of Studies with the unique distinction of having all in the same walled campus. The campus has a unique special attraction in Bharat Kala Bhawan, a treasure house of artifacts.
• The University also runs three schools and one Ranveer Sanskrit Pathshala imparting education from primary to secondary level apart from having a Kendriya Vidyalaya housed in the Campus. In addition, the Rajiv Gandhi South Campus has been established in the year 2006 in a sprawling campus of 1092.6 Hectares (2700 Acres) located about 75 kms away from the main campus, at Barkachha in Mirzapur district, Uttar Pradesh.
• The Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) is located in the campus of the Banaras Hindu University. Earlier it was also a part of the BHU corpus.
• The University has its own telecommunication setup, Press, Computer network system, Dairy, Agricultural farms, museum of arts and culture of international repute – ‘Bharat Kala Bhawan’, Swimming Pool, Guest House Complex, Hostels for boys and girls, residential quarters for faculty and staff, auditoriums including the main ‘Swatantrata Bhawan’ with nearly 2000 seats and modern facilities, Central Library having more than one million volumes, Health Centres, 1000 bedded modern Hospital, the biggest Trauma Centre & Superspeciality Hospital of the country, Indoor and Outdoor stadium, Gymnasium, the famous Lord Vishwanath Temple, Air/Naval/Infantry NCC wings, NSS & Mountaineering Centre, Public Relations and Publication Units, Employment Guidance and Information Bureau, Training and Placement Centres, Hobby Centre, Cafeteria, Banks and Post-Offices, a Telegraphy Office, Shopping Centre, Airfield and Helipad, Electric, Water & Works Departments and its own security arrangement for law and order. It is one of a handful of Indian universities with undergraduate and postgraduate education as well as research, all in one campus.
• The Banaras Hindu University has attained its Hundred Years on ‘Vasantapanchami’ 12^th February, 2016. It has been a great journey for this prime institution of learning well known as ‘Capital of Knowledge’.
• Text : Based on the material received from the Proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Apr 14, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps on Deekshabhoomi.

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

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise each

Stamps Printed : 3.10 lakh each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Deekshabhoomi is regarded as one of the most revered monuments of Buddhism. It is at this place, the architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, embraced Buddhism with nearly 4 lakhs of his followers on 14 October 1956.
• Deekshabhoomi is spread across 22 acres of land in the heart of Nagpur. Deekshabhoomi Stupa is the largest hollow stupa among all Buddhist stupas in India. The diameter is 36 meters and has a height of 22 meters. Height from ground level is 30 meters. Based on the theme of Ashok Chakra, the stupa rests on 24 pillars resembling 24 spokes. The stupa dome is constructed with concrete blocks and stands on a self-supporting concrete umbrella as a capstone. The dome is surrounded by a four meter wide veranda. Beneath the dome there is a 64 x 64 meter Prayer hall (Vihara). At the centre of stupa, Relics of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and an idol of Buddha is placed.
• The stupa has four doors opening in four directions. The doors lead to the large gates, which are replicas of Sanchi gate with Ashok Chakras, and statues of horses, elephants, and lions. Around the stupa, there is a garden and statues of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and Gautam Buddha on the south-east side of the stupa. On the east side of the stupa are built, a monastery (Bhikkhu Niwas) and two pillars depicting 22 vows and preamble of Indian constitution. The historical Bodhi Tree (Bodhi vriksha) is also planted alongside.
• The ‘Bodhi Vriksha’ at Deekshabhoomi of Bodh Gaya is a sacred fig (Pipal) tree. This Bodhi Tree is a sapling of the same Bodhi tree under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. This sapling of the Bodhi Tree was brought from Anuradhapuram in Sri Lanka. The Bodhi tree at Anuradhapuram is said to be planted from the sapling of original Bodhi Tree by Sanghmitra, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar selected Nagpur for his conversion ceremony, as he explained in his speech that Nagpur was homeland of “Nag” people who embraced Buddhism, supported it with great efforts in its early period and propagated it throughout India.
• The emperor Ashoka the Great embraced Buddhism on the Ashwin Shukla Vijaya Dashmi, then known as Ashok Vijaya Dashmi. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar also chose this day for embracing Buddhism. The year 1956 also coincided with 2,550^th Birth Anniversary of Bhagavan Gautam Buddha.
• On Ashoka Vijaya Dashmi, 14 October 1956, Ambedkar and his wife took the oath of three Jewels “Trisaran” and five Precepts ‘Panchsheel’ from the Burmese monk Mahasthavir Chandramani from Kushinagar. Ambedkar then gave the oath of three Jewels, five precepts, and 22 Vows ‘Pratigya’ to his thousands of followers. It was after this day, Nagpur became the birthplace of Neo Buddhist movement.
• Deekshabhoomi has gained the status of a pilgrimage center of Buddhism in India. On the Ashoka Vijaya Dashmi day, called as Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din, millions of pilgrims visit Deekshabhoomi.
• The Government of Maharashtra has declared Deekshabhoomi a status of ‘Grade-A’ pilgrimage center. Millions of people, architects and researchers visit Deekshabhoomi every year.
• Deekshabhoomi stupa was inaugurated by the then President of India Honorable Shri K. R. Narayanan on 18^th December 2001.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 7, 2016

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a se-tenant Commemorative Postage Stamps on “Akshardham Temple, New Delhi and Pramukh Swami Maharaj”.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 1500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 350230

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Shantilal Patel (birth name), Shastri Narayanswarupdas (ordained name)

Born on 7 Dec, 1921 at Chansad, Baroda State, British India [now Gujarat, India]

Died on 13 Aug, 2016 at Salangpur, Botad district, Gujarat, India

About : 

• The Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi is a breathtaking Cultural Complex capturing the Indian culture and heritage of India in all its grander and beauty. Inaugurated in November 2005, it has been visited by millions of visitors from across the globe. The complex is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River in the heart of the Indian Capital. It is a place of education, entertainment and enlightenment. It is a Unique Complex of Indian Art, Culture and Values, appealing to young and old, students and scholars, tourists and travelers, but most importantly to our people from both cities and villages, creating a deeper awareness, attraction and appreciation of art, culture and values. Akshardham experiences an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contribution for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind. It is dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and houses the Akshardham Mandir; three exhibition halls; a colorful water and laser spectacular show; a garden dedicated to the agrarian beauty of India.
• Akshardham Mandir is 141’ high, 316’ wide and 356’ long – is a marvel in marble and pink sandstone. It is profusely carved with ornate pillars, delicate statues and statuettes, filigreed arches and layers of sculpted Indian flora and fauna like elephants, swans, lotuses and leaves. The Exhibition buildings reflect the design and mood of the Monument with an elegant parikrama of hundreds of stone pillars. The exhibitions comprise of thematic settings, 3-D and walk-through dioramas, panoramic arenas, audio-visual areas, light and sound effects, laser media, multi-screen projections, audio-animatronic figures and surround experiences.
• In the Hall of Values, light leads the visitors and sounds guide them from one display to another, from one value to another. Through a set of interesting incidents and events the eternal Vedic values of love, non-violence, perseverance, faith and tolerance are displayed. The hall i.e. “Feel – Thru Spiritual India” takes viewers onto a visual journey through India, through all her breathtaking sceneries from the icy peaks of the Himalayas, through the vast waters of the Ganga to the shores of Kanyakumari. Apart from the thrills, it generates atmospheres of the famous pilgrim places of India in all their rhythms, rites and rituals. In the hall i.e. “Sail – Thru Time” visitors sit in boats and sail through time, first to the cradle of world civilization – the Vedic era, and are able to encounter and experience re-creations of sound and surroundings that display moving figures, sceneries and incidents. The Sahaj Anand Water Show is a breathtaking 24-minute presentation which unites a variety of intriguing media to bring to life a story from the Kena Upanishad which depicts the cycle of birth life and death. The Gardens of Akshardham are meditative and contemplative, with cultural spots, bronze sculptures and peaceful pockets.
• The Organisation behind the creation and construction of Akshardham is BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and Pramukh Swami Maharaj who steered the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha as its President over the last seven decades.
• H.D.H. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a peaceful, humble, simple and spiritual personality who always lived for others and had dedicated his life to selfless service for the spiritual and social upliftment of society. He was an advocate of world peace, and revered as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of the world.
• Pramukh Swami Maharaj or Shantilal Patel was born on December 7, 1921, to a farmer’s family in Chansad near Vadodara in Gujarat. His parents, Motibhai Patel and Diwaliben were both spiritually inclined and were followers of the Akshar Purushottam faith.
• As a young child, Shantilal was regarded honest, reliable, mature and kindhearted boy. In 1939 he became a renunciate and received initiation from his guru, Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, and was named Sadhu Narayanswarupdas. As a young ascetic Pramukh Swami Maharaj, or Sadhu Narayanswarupdas studied Sanskrit and Hindi Scriptures at Bhadaran and Khambhat, eventually earning the title “Shastri”.
• Pramukh Swami Maharaj was instrumental in the creation of about thousand temples and cultural centres such as Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi and Gandhinagar and others around the world such as Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, South Africa, Malawi, Botswana, UAE, Bahrain, Portugal, Belgium, UK, Canada, USA, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore etc. The Complexes have become hallmarks in preserving culture and performing social services. The complexes are expressions of purity, love, sacrifice, faith, effort, dedication and other values. Pramukh Swami Maharaj interacted with many heads of States and spiritual leaders.
• BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has an international network of over 5,100 centres, a million members and 50,000 volunteers performing 160 humanitarian activities. As a non-governmental organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, BAPS provides its voluntary services in areas as diverse as educational, environmental, medical, social, cultural and spiritual.
• He passed away on 13^th August, 2016 in Sarangpur, Botad District Gujarat.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 13, 2016

Issued for : Now in the year 2016, the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad is celebrating its 150^th Anniversary and the Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of two Commemorative Stamps to mark this event.

Credit :
Stamp / Miniature Sheet / FDC / Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Miniature Sheet, Mint condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 1500 & 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.4 million each

Miniature Sheet : 0.05 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The High Court of Allahabad was established by a Royal Charter as the High Court of Judicature for the North Western Province on 17^th March, 1866 and was seated at Agra. At that time, it was comprised of the First Chief Justice – Sir Walter Morgan and five other judges Alexander Ross, William Edwards, William Roberts, Francis Boyle Parson and Charles Arthur Turner.
  
• The High Court had its first sitting on 18.06.1866 at Agra. Thereafter, it was shifted to Allahabad in the year 1869 in the building on Queens’ Road now Sarojini Naidu Road. The building in which the High Court, Allahabad is seated at present was designed by the famous architect Frank Lishman. Its foundation stone was laid by Sir John Stanley KC., the then Chief Justice on 18.03.1911. The main building with dome shaped pedimented centre, engrailed arches, stone balustrades and arcaded wings is a marvelous synthesis of western and eastern architectural styles. The construction of the building was completed on 27.11.1916 and the building was inaugurated by Lord Chemsford, Viceroy & Governor General of India.
  
• The building in which the Lucknow Bench of High Court is located was designed by Mr. W. G. Wood, Executive Engineer. Its construction began in the year 1900 during the administration of Sir A. P. Macdonnel, the erstwhile Lt. Governor of United Province of Agra and Oudh. The building incorporates the best of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture with domes and pillars.
  
• The High Court got the new name of ‘High Court of Judicature at Allahabad‘ through a supplementary Letters Patent on 11.03.1919.
  
• On 26^th July, 1948 the Chief Court of Oudh merged with High Court of Judicature at Allahabad under the United Provinces High Court (Amalgamation) Order, 1948.
  
• The High Court started functioning with 06 Judges and at present, when it is celebrating its 150^th Anniversary, it has a sanctioned strength of 90 permanent and 70 additional Judges, a total 160 Judges, making it the biggest in the country.
  
• Starting from Sri Walter Morgan the First Chief Justice, Shri Shah Mohammad Suleman the First Indian Chief Justice and Shri Bidhu Bhushan Malik, the First Chief Justice after Independence, the High Court, Allahabad has witnessed 45 Chief Justice so far.
  
• The High Court of Allahabad has the distinction of having given the country five Chief Justices of India namely Sarvsshri K. N. Wanchoo, Mirza Hameedullah Beg, Raghunandan Swarup Pathak, Kamal Narain Singh and V. N. Khare.
  
• The Bar of the High Court in the beginning i.e. in 1866 consisted of 6 Advocates only but its population today is about 15000 as per the rolls maintained by the Registry of the High Court.
  
• Mr. William Jardin was the first Government advocate of North West Provinces appointed during 1869-70.
  
• The Advocates of the High Court at Principal Seat at Allahabad are grouped in two different recognized associations namely High Court Bar Association and Advocate’s Association. The Advocates at High Court, Lucknow Bench have their own recognized Bar Association in the name of Oudh Bar Association.
  
• At the time when the High Court shifted from Agra to Allahabad the Bar was composed of barristers of English and Irish Bar, the advocates of Scotland and Vakils. Mr. Ram Prasad, Mr. J. N. Chaudhary, Pt. Sundar Lal and Pt. Moti Lal Nehru were the first batch of the Vakils admitted to the status of advocates by the Chief Justice in 1896.
  
• The Allahabad High Court took the lead when other High Courts rejected applications for enrollment of women lawyers, by enrolling Miss. Cornelia Sorabji as the First Indian Lady Vakil of Allahabad High Court on August 24, 1921 by a decision of the English Committee of the court (as the Administrative Committee was then called) consisting of Chief Justice Sir Grimwood Mears. In 1995 a retiring room for lady Advocates was inaugurated and was named as Cornelia Sorabji Hall.
  
• The Registrar General is the Administrative Head of the High Court. He is assisted by several Officers & Officials collectively known as the Registry of the Court including Registrars, Joint Registrars, Dy. Registrars, Asst. Registrars, Section Officers, Review Officers, Asst. Review Officers and many others.
  
• The High Court both at Allahabad and its Lucknow Bench has a Chief Justice’s Library and a Judges Library with more than 1,75,000 Commentaries / Acts / Manuals / Reports / Digests, 1,20,000 bound volumes of Journals starting from the year 1901 till date, 5,000 bound volumes of Gazettes (Central & State), Law Reporters, Magazines and News Papers.
  
• The High Court has its own Museum both at Allahabad and Lucknow with a rich collection of judgements, deeds, photographs, dress, furniture and the original charter of Her Majesty the Queen Victoria of 17^th March, 1866 by which the High Court was created and established.
  
• A Meditation & Reconciliation Centre has also been established in the High Court both at Allahabad & Lucknow for the Persons who are willing to resolve their disputes amicably by negotiations.
  
• The High Court is on its way to complete computerization. From the year 2009, the copies of Judgements & Orders are being uploaded on the internet immediately after their delivery. A mammoth task of digitalization of all the files has been undertaken by the High Court. The High Court is proposing to make its entire work paperless by adopting e-filing and also by running e-courts.
  
• The High Court celebrated its Centenary in the year 1966. The Post Centenary Silver Jubilee Function of the High Court was celebrated in the year 1991.
  
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 8, 2016

Issued for : The Department of Posts and United Nations Postal Administration on the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8^th March, 2016 are pleased to release a set of two stamps and a miniature sheet on India-UN Women HeForShe.

Design : The stamps have been designed by MirkoIllic and the images on the stamps make the point that girls and women are half of humanity and are exactly equal to the other half. Together, they make a whole world.

Credit :
Stamp : Shri Mirkolllic and Smt. Nenu Gupta
Miniature Sheet / FDC / Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Se–tenant set of 2 Stamps, Mint condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 2500 & 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.5105 million each

Miniature Sheet : 0.1 million

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Printing Process : Wet Offset

About : 

• Created by UN Women, the United Nations entity for gender equality and the empowerment of women, the HeForShe solidarity movement for gender equality provides a systematic approach and targeted platform on which men and boys can engage and become change agents towards the achievement of gender equality. Achieving gender equality in our lifetimes requires an innovative, inclusive approach that both recognizes men and boys as partners for women’s rights, and acknowledges the ways in which they also benefit from this equality. HeForShe invites men and boys to build on the work of the women’s movement as equal partners, crafting and implementing a shared vision of gender equality that will benefit all of humanity.
  
• Since its launch on 20^th September, 2014, at the United Nations by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and UN Women Global Goodwill Ambassador, Emma Watson, hundreds of thousands of men from around the world including Heads of State and global luminaries, from all walks of life have committed to gender equality. HeForShe has been the subject of more than 2 billion conversations on social media, with off-line activities reaching every corner of the globe.
  
• The ambitious aim of this movement is to mobilize 1 billion men to accelerate the achievement of gender equality. HeForShe uses innovative online, offline, and mobile phone technology to identify and activate men in every city, community, and village around the world. The HeForShe journey begins online with a simple affirmation that gender equality is not only a women’s issue, but a human rights issue that requires the participation and commitment of men. HeForShe then moves beyond awareness to action, asking men to define what matters to them, and what they will do to make a difference.
  
• Men play a critical role in supporting and enabling women’s economic empowerment. HeForShe engages male CEOs and other leaders as champions for gender equality within their own organizations, encouraging them to question the status quo and commit to concrete action. On an individual level, HeForShe engages men to examine how their own personal and professional lives can better recognize, reduce, and redistribute care and responsibilities between the market and the state, between the household and the workplace, and between women and men.
  
• The international community has recognized that women’s participation is vital to achieving and sustaining peace. Women are proven agents of change and should be able to do even more. HeForShe provides an opportunity to rebalance the representation of men and women in the peace process by engaging both sides of the table; empowering female leaders and working with men as advocates for change.
  
• Where men have prioritized gender equality, great results have followed. HeForShe engages male political leaders as catalysts for change across both public and private spheres, and provides targeted support to male leaders eager to engage in this work.
  
• Ending gender-based violence requires a comprehensive approach that engages every segment of society. HeForShe provides a platform through which, first and foremost, men and boys can prevent violence by observing and evolving their own attitudes, values and behaviours towards women and girls, ensuring that they do not personally engage in discrimination or violence. In cases where violence has already been perpetrated, men can, through HeForShe, seek support to change their behaviours, breaking the cycle of violence. We can all inspire broader change by proactively intervening where we witness discrimination or violence.
  
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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