Issued by India

Issued on Feb 1, 2026

Issued for : India Post proudly releases a commemorative postage stamp celebrating the Swarnim Jayanti (Golden Jubilee) of the Indian Coast Guard, marking 50 years of dedicated service to the nation. The stamp honours the courage, professionalism, and selfless service of the men and women of the Indian Coast Guard, who continue to protect our coasts with valour and dedication.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Ravneet Kaur

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 315900

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Established on 1^st February 1977, the Indian Coast Guard has grown into a formidable maritime force, playing a vital role in ensuring the safety, security, and environmental protection of India’s vast coastline and maritime zones. Guided by the motto “Vayam Rakshamah” – “We Protect” – the Indian Coast Guard has steadfastly safeguarded the nation’s maritime interests, providing a reassuring presence in our seas.
• The stamp features a modern Indian Coast Guard ship, sailing proudly under the vibrant hues of a rising sun, symbolizing hope, vigilance, and commitment. It embodies the spirit of the Indian Coast Guard, whose duties span search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, marine pollution response, coastal security, and national defense support.
• Over five decades, the Indian Coast Guard has evolved into a highly professional, multi-mission organization, operating a balanced fleet of ships, aircraft, and shore establishments. Its unwavering commitment has been instrumental in protecting India’s maritime resources, ensuring safe seas, and supporting humanitarian missions in times of need.
• Text : Based on the content provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 15, 2025

Issued for : India Post proudly commemorates the New Mangalore Port Authority’s remarkable 50-year journey with a special commemorative stamp. This philatelic tribute honours NMPA’s pivotal role in driving trade, logistics, and economic growth, while also highlighting its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology. More than just a stamp, it stands as a symbol of India’s maritime strength, infrastructure progress, and global connectivity.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 303550

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• New Mangalore Port, also known as the Gateway of Karnataka, is the only Major Port of Karnataka. The Old Port (Bunder) in Mangalore, situated at the confluence of the Gurupura and Netravati rivers, faced limitations in accommodating the growing demands of sea trade. Consequently, the need for a new port arose. Post-independence under the visionary leadership of Late U. Srinivas Mallya, former MP of the region, the New Mangalore Port was conceived. The Mangalore Harbour Project was established in 1962, with construction beginning in 1968. The port was officially inaugurated on January 11, 1975.
• Over the years, the Port has grown from handling less than a lakh tonne of traffic in 1974-75 to more than 45.71 MMT handled during FY 2023-24. The major commodities handled through the Port include POL products, coffee, iron ore pellets, cement, coal, fertiliser, edible oil, liquid chemicals and containerised cargo. The Port provides all necessary facilities for handling the cargo of mega industries in the hinterland, such as MRPL, KIOCL, TOTAL GAS, MCF, HPCL, IOC, and UPCL.
• As part of Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047, NMPA has envisaged development projects such as deepening of the channel to 18 metres, development of an LNG terminal, additional storage sheds, and an outer harbour. New Mangalore Port Authority currently has an installed capacity of 105 MMT and is in the process of expanding it through projects such as the additional deep draft general cargo berth (Berth No. 17) and the refurbishment of Berth No. 9.
• NMPA is an ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 & ISPS-compliant, 100% solar-powered, clean, green, lean port run entirely on solar energy. It is also the recipient of the Greentech Environment Award in the gold category in the Port sector for seven consecutive years.
• NMPA has been at the forefront of adopting the latest port operation technologies, including RFID-based entry/exit, e-documentation, e-kart ticketing systems, robotic firefighting systems, and automated weighbridges. These initiatives have contributed to operational efficiencies such as the lowest Turnaround Time (TRT) for break bulk vessels and container vessel TRT, surpassing the World Bank benchmark.
• In 2024-25, NMPA was adjudged the second-best container handling port in the <0.5 M TEU category by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, a testament to its operational excellence. The Port is also a popular destination for cruise tourists.
• NMPA reaffirms its commitment to fostering global trade, enhancing logistics efficiency, and driving economic growth for the region and the nation. Strategically positioned with world-class infrastructure and progressive policies, NMPA continues to expand its capabilities in container, bulk, and liquid cargo handling, ensuring seamless logistics and global connectivity.
• NMPA celebrates 50 years of service to the nation in 2025. Various projects and programmes are being planned to mark this occasion, including the inauguration of a multi-speciality hospital on a PPP mode, new gates, four-lane roads, and the release of a commemorative stamp, commemorative coin, coffee table book, and exhibition.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jul 25, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts proudly releases the Commemorative Postage Stamp that embodies the essence of the India–Maldives partnership anchored in history, enriched by culture, and propelled by cooperation. This stamp highlights the timeless maritime connection and the journey of mutual progress undertaken by both nations.

Credits :
Stamp/Souvenir Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Sankha Samanta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 6000 & 6000 Paise

Souvenir Sheet Price : 12000 Paise

Souvenir Sheets Printed : 1,11,200

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• From the first recorded settlers – Giraavaaru people from South India to the footprints left by the Chola empire, during their broader naval campaigns in the 10^th century in the Maldives, the roots of the India–Maldives relations run deep in shared soil. India and Maldives share a common heritage of ancient Hindu ritualistic tradition of Srauta, venerating the sun god, and spiritual Buddhist traditions, with Buddhist stupas & viharas excavated across islands like Male, Fuvahmulah, Gan, and Thoddoo. The common heritage in Hinduism, Buddhism, and later Islam, bound both nations together in the timeless values of harmony, empathy, peaceful co-existence and reciprocal respect.
• India and Maldives share a long and multifaceted relationship, marked by ethnic, linguistic, cultural, religious, and commercial ties that stretch back centuries. After Maldives gained independence from British protectorate status on 26 July, 1965, India was among the first to recognize Maldives as an independent and sovereign nation. In the same year, on November 01, formal diplomatic relations were officially established between India and Maldives.
• India was the first country to establish its resident High Commission in Maldives in 1978. Between 1965-1978, the Maldives was accredited to the High Commission of India, Colombo in Sri Lanka. Maldives opened its first Resident High Commission at New Delhi in 2004 before which diplomatic representation was managed from the Maldivian High Commission in Colombo and its Permanent Mission in New York (for conducting broader international diplomacy).
• India’s role as a ‘First Responder’ in crises have been firmly established with the launch of ‘Operation Cactus’ – a swift military intervention in response to an attempted coup against President Gayoom, in 1988, followed by the launch of ‘Operation Castor’ providing significant relief and assistance to the Maldives amid devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami of December 2004, and ‘Operation Neer’ in 2014 during water crisis in Male. Later, during Covid times, pandemic solidarity through Operation Sanjeevani and Vaccine Maitri further reinforced India’s role as the first responder for Maldives during any crisis.
• India formally adopted the ‘Neighborhood First’ policy in May 2014, with Maldives occupying a place of prominence due to its geographical proximity and strategic relevance. The relationship was further upgraded with SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and expanded into a broader MAHASAGAR vision in post-2020, with India firmly establishing its credentials of a “first responder” in times of crisis.
• India is among the top trading partners of Maldives, and bilateral trade has grown steadily, with new shipping and air connectivity links facilitating business and commerce. Indian tourists contribute significantly to the Maldivian tourism sector, while Indian enterprises and professionals are actively involved in the country’s key sectors.
• At the heart of this vibrant partnership lies a deep cultural and people-to-people connection. The proximity of the two countries has enabled centuries of exchange of language, art, craftsmanship, culinary traditions, and shared experiences that continue to shape the collective identities of both peoples.
• Maritime Heritage: The Uru and the Vadhu Dhoni: This Commemorative Postage Stamp, featuring the Indian boat Uru and the Maldivian boat Vadhu Dhoni, is a tribute to the age-old maritime traditions that have long connected India and the Maldives. These traditional boats reflect the shared oceanic legacy and enduring craftsmanship of both nations.
• The Uru – India’s Mastercraft from Beypore: The Uru, also known as the “Fat Boat”, is a large wooden dhow handcrafted in the historic boatyards of Beypore, Kerala. These boats have been part of the Indian Ocean trade for centuries, traditionally used by Arab merchants for transporting goods. Made primarily of teak wood, Urus are renowned for their durability, elegance, and impressive scale. Even today, Uru-building is an artisanal tradition preserved by skilled craftsmen, passed down through generations without blueprints or manuals. The Uru is a proud symbol of India’s maritime heritage and the long-standing commercial exchanges between the Indian subcontinent and island nations such as the Maldives.
• The Vadhu Dhoni – Pride of the Maldivian Seas: A traditional Maldivian fishing boat, the Vadhu Dhoni is locally crafted for reef and coastal fishing. Built with a narrow wooden hull, it allows smooth navigation through lagoons and seas. Most are powered by inboard motors today, though some still retain their traditional sailing capabilities. Often used for handline fishing, it symbolizes the Maldives’ rich maritime heritage and the close bond between island life and the ocean.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of External Affairs.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 9, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on ‘Surakshit Jayen Prashikshit Jayen – Go Safe and Go Trained’ to further intensify the campaign of the Ministry of External Affairs on Safe and Legal Migration.

Credits :
Stamps/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Mrs. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 266600

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• With the rise of fraudulent and illegal migration, Ministry of External Affairs has been making constant efforts to educate migrants about the perils of illegal channels. Illegal migrants may be forced to live a wretched existence in the target country through illegal channels because they will be unable to legitimately enroll in any assistance or protection systems introduced by GOI. Instead, they will be subjected to harsh, insecure, and unpleasant living situations, as well as a significant danger of being exploited by unlawful employers who may force them to accept flexible work schedules at low rates and in hazardous working conditions. As a result, international migration has become centered on the necessity for both safe and trained migration.
• Given our robust demographic dividend and rapidly changing global economic world order, Ministry of External Affairs has also been working on various activities such as aligning e-Migrate portals with other Ministries in India as well as Governments of host countries for skilling and mapping overseas opportunities and promoting legal migration to boost the Indian workforce’s sustainable employment ecosystem and entrepreneurship opportunities. The Ministry has also been coordinating with a number of State governments and stakeholders to disseminate information on the Indian Diaspora and overseas employment opportunities.
• With an aim of promoting safe and legal migration as well as overseas career prospects, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has launched the ‘Surakshit Jayen Prashikshit Jayen – Go Safe, Go Trained’ campaign to raise awareness and facilitate safe and legal migration. The goal of this campaign is to raise public awareness about the importance of using safe and legal channels while travelling for job so that well-informed migrants will be able to seamlessly integrate and have a safe and productive stay abroad. This motto has earlier been widely publicized through awareness generation workshops and Pre-Departure Orientation & Training (PDOT) imparted to the prospective migrants.
• To give a further impetus on visibility of Ministry’s unique campaign, a Postal Stamp with a tagline on Surakshit Jayen Prashikshit Jayen is being released on the occasion of the 17^th PBD Convention at Indore, Madhya Pradesh on 8-10 January 2023 to maximize the visibility among the prospective migrants. It is anticipated that the Stamp release will generate much needed awareness for promoting safe and legal migration and overseas employment opportunities.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Ministry of External Affairs.

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 21, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is delighted to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on President’s Fleet Review 2022 and appreciates the contribution of Indian Navy in protecting the country in the wake of complex maritime environment of the 21^st century.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 302250

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• President’s Fleet Review (PFR) is a ceremonial occasion traditionally held by the Indian Navy to showcase its prowess. The review is a grand and formal occasion when all operational naval vessels and aircrafts are spruced up in a spirit of loyalty and allegiance to the Nation and the Supreme Commander. The President’s Fleet Review is a symbolic display of a nation’s maritime capabilities and adroitness. It is meant to convey to the Commander-in-Chief and to the Nation that the Country’s maritime forces are fighting fit and ready to meet any challenge. Post-Independence, traditionally, the President, as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces reviews the Fleet once during his tenure. After a 21-gun salute, the President embarks on the Presidential Yacht, distinguished by the Ashoka Emblem on his side and reviews all the ships by cruising past them.
• On the grand occasion of PFR 2022, the world would witness the proud display of the readiness of the Indian Navy for any battle at sea. The event would showcase the three dimensional display of operational surface warships, subsurface submarine and airborne assets in its company with the ethos of steadfastness and devotion to the country.
• The theme for this PFR is “Indian Navy – 75 Years in Service to the Nation”. Indian Navy has expanded her horizontal and vertical dimensions exponentially over the period of 75 years to ensure safety and security of international coastal borders with utmost dedication. The expansion of Indian Navy’s Blue water operation capabilities has engraved unfathomable impact in international waters.
  
• Text : Referenced from contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 16, 2021

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue the Commemorative Postage Stamp on Swarnim Vijay: 1971-2021, a historic event for India and a day of pride for us all.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 302400

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Year 2021 marks the 50^th Anniversary of the victory of the Indian Armed Forces during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. As a mark of tribute and celebration of the victory, the period December 2020-2021 is being observed as Swarnim Vijay Varsh by the Indian Armed Forces.
• 16 December, the day of the surrender of Pakistani forces, is celebrated as Vijay Diwas each year. This day witnessed the conclusion of the War with the Indian Armed Forces gaining a decisive victory over Pakistan. Pakistani forces in East Pakistan under the leadership of Lieutenant General AAK Niazi, surrendering to the Indian Armed forces, led by Lt Gen JS Aurora, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command. Also present during the Surrender Ceremony were Vice Admiral N Krishnan, FOC-in-C, Eastern Naval Command and Air Marshal HC Dewan, AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command.
• The 1971 Indo-Pak war commenced with Pakistan launching pre-emptive strikes on a large number of IAF bases. A swift response to these unprovoked attacks was launched by the Indian Armed Forces on the Western and Eastern Fronts, on Land, Sea and Air. Offensive action by the Indian Armed Forces led to the capture of Dhaka in East Pakistan, surrender of 93000 Pakistani soldiers and the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation. This was the largest surrender of Armed Forces post World War II. The historic victory of 1971 was achieved through the valour, gallantry and professionalism of the Commanders and Troops. It was a result of meticulous planning, dynamic leadership and innovation at multiple echelons. The stamp is symbolic of the resilience and tenacity of Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen, who were motivated by their leaders and convinced by the righteousness of their cause. As for the enemy, it had no way but surrender.
• The defining characteristic of the war was the jointness and integration achieved among the three arms of India’s Defence Forces. This, more than anything else, resulted in the success of the lightning campaign leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.
• The stamp commemorates the iconic event in the history of Indian Subcontinent. As its centerpiece, it carries the Swarnim Vijay Varsh logo, designed by Lt Cdr Kushal Chandrashekhar of the Indian Navy, which was selected during an All India Competition held in Oct-Nov 2020. The stamp also commemorates the espirit-de-corps and spirit of jointmanship displayed by the Indian Armed Forces as well as the Indo-Bangla Forces.
• With the launch of the Swarnim Vijay Varsh Stamp, India celebrates the professionalism and valour of its Armed Forces and reaffirms its commitment to its old friend and close neighbor, Bangladesh.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by Army Postal Service.

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 17, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps between India and Iran on the theme “Trade and Commerce Connectivity” featuring “Deendayal Port – Kandla” of India and “Shahid Beheshti Port – Chabahar” of Iran.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure : Shri Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 2500 & 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 501000 each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 1 lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• India–Iran relations span millennia marked by meaningful interactions. The two countries shared a border till 1947 and share several common features in their languages, cultures and traditions. India and Iran established diplomatic links on March 15, 1950. In addition to the Embassy in Tehran, India has two Consulates in Iran, one in Bandar Abbas and other in Zahedan. The two countries have in place Bilateral Consultative Mechanisms at various levels which meet regularly. Foreign Offices of both countries also hold regular consultations on bilateral and regional issues.
• India–Iran relationship enjoys economic and commercial ties covering many sectors though it has traditionally been dominated by Indian import of Iranian crude oil. The India–Iran bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2016-17 was USD 12.89 billion. India imported USD 10.5 billion worth of goods, mainly crude oil, and exported commodities worth USD 2.4 billion. Major Indian exports to Iran include rice, tea, iron and steel, organic chemicals, metals, electrical machinery, drugs/pharmaceuticals, etc. Major Indian imports from Iran include petroleum and its products, inorganic/organic chemicals, fertilizers, plastic and articles, edible fruits and nuts, glass and glassware, natural or cultured pearls, precious or semiprecious stones, etc.
• An Indian Cultural Centre is currently functioning within the Embassy premises which was inaugurated in 2013. Iran has Cultural Centres in Delhi, Hyderabad and Mumbai. Indian Mission undertakes various cultural activities including Indian Cultural week, celebration of important days and events among others. The 3^rd International Day of Yoga was celebrated at the Kendriya Vidyalaya school premises on June 21, 2017 in which more than 500 Iranians participated. Indian Embassy has been bringing out a bi-monthly magazine named “Aina-e-Hind” (Mirror of India) taking India to the drawing rooms of the general Iranian public.
• The Theme for India – Islamic Republic of Iran Joint Issue represents “trade and commerce connectivity” featuring Deendayal Port – Kandla from Gujarat, India and Shahid Beheshti Port – Chabahar from Iran. The miniature sheet design has structures of the Ashokan Pillar with a Lion at the top from India and Achaemenid Griffin of Iran which shows the strong bond between architectural history of two great civilizations.
• Deendayal Port – Kandla
  • Deendayal Port’s journey began in 1931 with construction of RCC Jetty by Maharao Khengarji. After partition, Deendayal Port’s success story has continued and it rose to the No. 1 port in India in the year 2007-08 and since then has retained the position for the 9^th consecutive year. On 31.03.2016, Deendayal Port created history by handling 100 MMT cargos in a year – the first major port to achieve the milestone. Kandla, also known as the Deendayal Port Trust is a seaport in Kutch District of Gujarat state in western India, near the city of Gandhidham. Located on the Gulf of Kutch, it is one of major ports on west coast. Kandla was the chief seaport serving western India, after the partition of India, left the port of Karachi in Pakistan. It is located on the Gulf of Kutch on the North Western coast of India some 256 nautical miles southeast of the Port of Karachi and over 430 nautical miles north-northwest of the Port of Mumbai.
• Shahid Beheshti Port – Chabahar
  • Chabahar Port is strategically located on Iran’s South Eastern Coast in the Sistan-Baluchistan Province. It lies in the Oman sea outside the Persian Gulf. The distance from Kandla to Chabahar is 550 nautical miles (approx. 1018 km) and from Mumbai is 768 Nautical Miles (approx. 1422 km). The importance of Chabahar Port is its potential to give India alternate access to Afghanistan. It has a huge commercial potential by offering access to the CIS countries, Russia and Europe through Iran.
  • India in partnership with Iran is developing Phase I of Shahid Beheshti Port – Chabahar. In 2016, the contract on Chabahar was signed which commits to Indian investment of USD 85 million for equipping the Chabahar port and Credit of USD 150 million for port development. The present capacity of the Port is 2.5 MT per year which comprises of Shahid Beheshti Port and Shahid Kalantari Port. Shahid Beheshti Port, with an area of 240 hectares, have 5 jetties presently, four of which would be dismantled so that ships with 70,000-80,000 Tons can berth. The phase 1 development plan for Shahid Beheshti Port, in which India is participating, covers one container terminal and one multipurpose terminal. Chabahar Port also includes Shahid Kalantari Port with an area of 30 hectares, having 5 jetties presently for small ships and has an overall capacity of handling 70-75,000 TEU per annum.
• Text : Material received from the Ministry of External Affairs and stamp design is based on material received from the Ministry of Shipping, Government of India.

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 6, 2016

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to release a commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of International Fleet Review 2016.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.602 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• A Naval Fleet Review is a long-standing tradition of navies world-over. The Review was conceived as a show of naval might and readiness for battle. In India, ten Reviews have been held so far, with the first in 1953 and the latest in 2011. The Review aims at assuring the country of the Indian Navy‘s preparedness, its high moral and discipline.
  
• Assembling of warships without any belligerent intentions is now the norm. Leading nations of the world, occasionally invite their maritime neighbours, to participate with their ships in the review. Normally called ‘International Fleet Review’, the event then allows the host nation an occasion to display its maritime capabilities and mutual trust amongst maritime nations.
  
• The only previous International Fleet Review in India was conducted in February 2001, off Mumbai. This earned the country widespread appreciation and goodwill. On 06^th February 2016, the President of India, is scheduled to review the fleet of participating Indian and foreign warships off Vishakhapatnam. The International Fleet Review 2016 logo depicts the 3 operating dimensions of the Navy, with a ship, submarine and an aircraft, and also letters I-F-R form an integral part of the logo. The Dolphin has been chosen as the mascot, depicting friendship across oceans, and the theme is ‘United through Oceans‘.
  
• The President of India being the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, once in his term, reviews the Indian Naval Fleet as part of the ‘President’s Fleet Review‘ (PFR). This review aims at assuring the country of the Indian Navy’s preparedness, its high morale and discipline. Many leading nations of the world use the opportunity provided by a Fleet Review to enhance mutual trust and confidence with their maritime neighbours and partners by inviting their ships to participate in the Review. Normally called the ‘International Fleet Review’ (IFR), this event then provides the host nation an occasion to display its own naval prowess, and the bridges of friendship and trust it has built with other maritime nations. Owing to the many military-diplomatic benefits it accrues to the nation, the Indian Navy is conducting an International Fleet Review 2016, at Vishakhapatnam.
  
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 15, 2015

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of three Stamps on the Army, Navy and Air Force, along with a First Day Cover and Brochure, to honour the valour and courage of the soldiers of Armed Forces of 1965 war.

Design : The Stamps depict the spirit and resoluteness of purpose displayed by the three wings of Indian Armed Forces during the 1965 war.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Cancellation : Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise each

Stamps Printed : 0.6 Million x 3 Stamps

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Honour, selfless service and the spirit of sacrifice are ingrained tenets of the Indian Armed Forces, preserved as part of their glorious tradition, enabling them to acquit themselves commendably both in war and peace. In the face of grave personal danger, the Indian Soldier, Sailor and Air Warrior has never hesitated in making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, a fact that has been evident throughout the history of our Nation, in the face of many challenges faced. One such example of valour of soldiers of Armed Forces was witnessed in 1965, wherein our Armed Forces exhibited tremendous grit, determination and fortitude, living up to the faith reposed in them by the Indian Nation and its leaders.
  
• Right from October 1947, when it engineered a tribal invasion to capture Kashmir, Pakistan had chosen to follow a path of conflict with India and sought to achieve by war what it could not achieve through diplomacy. In August and September of 1965, the Indian Armed Forces were put to test by Pakistan for a second time, when Pakistan forces attacked Kutch in Western India. Subsequent skirmishes in the Kashmir valley by infiltrators, were designed to surprise the Indian Armed Forces. The incursions at the end of August and an all-out attack by Pakistani armour in the Chhamb area of Jammu Province later, was with the obvious objective of cutting the Jammu–Srinagar highway.
  
• Having launched Op Gibraltar and Op Grand Slam, the Pakistan Armed Forces were confident of quick success. The Indian Armed Forces, despite being lightly equipped in all sectors, fought valiantly in the true spirit of the Indian Soldier, with resilience to adversity. The Pakistan Armed Forces were in for a rude shock when operations by Indian Armed Forces brought their offensive in both the Western and Eastern Sectors to a screeching halt. This was achieved through leadership and adroit application of operational art. The timely entry of the Air Force into the conflict provided additional impetus that eventually stalled Pakistan’s nefarious designs, especially in the Chhamb–Jaurian Sector.
  
• Significant endeavours of the Indian Armed Forces during the 1965 War were the capture of Hajipir, blunting of the Pakistani offensive in Chhamb–Jaurian, Battle of Asal Uttar, the Ichhogil Canal operations and the advance onto Lahore. The tank battles of 1965 take their place in annals of military history as the most intense ones used since World War II. On 10^th September 1965, the Indian Armed Forces stuck a massive blow to the armada of Pakistani tanks when the offensive of Pakistan’s 1^st Armoured Division was blunted at the Battle of Asal Uttar, in the Khemkaran Sector.
  
• Poised against the Pakistani Air Force which was equipped with a much more ‘modern’ inventory of fighter aircraft, the Indian Air Force (IAF) responded with alacrity to the call for air support, and succeeded in thwarting the Pakistani offensive. The IAF proved its mettle in each of the operations carried out, both in the Western as well as the Eastern Sector. The grit and valour displayed by our Air Warriors was yet another glorious chapter in the history of the IAF.
  
• The Indian fleet was deployed to ensure defence of the Western and eastern Coasts and the island territories. Given the Government’s determination to limit the scope of the conflict as much as possible, the Indian Fleet flying the flag of Rear Admiral BA Samson on-board INS Mysore, remained vigilant and carried out intensive patrols and sweeps within India’s continental shelf. The Alize and Seahawk aircraft of the Indian Navy carried out sorties from 10 Sep – 23 Sep 1965 for maritime surveillance. By these actions Pakistan navy was ensconced in Karachi.
  
• The sacrifices of the 1965 War are preserved in the collective bravery displayed by the Indian Armed Forces, possible largely because of the ardent support of the entire Nation. The valour of the soldiers has been recognised through the award of 16 Battle Honours and three Theatre Honours, two PVCs besides numerous MVCs, VrCs and Mentions-in-Despatches. The heroism of CQMH Abdul Hamid and Lt Col AB Tarapore, who were posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra will live on in the glorious history of our nation.
  
• The sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces in 1965 is testimony to the credo that the Safety, Honour and Welfare of the country comes first, always, and every time, for the Indian Armed Forces.
  
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 20, 2015

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Indian Ocean and Rajendra Chola l.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.6 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Indian Ocean is the third largest of the world’s oceanic divisions, covering approximately 20 per cent of the water on the Earth’s surface. It has Asia on the North, Africa on the West, Australia on the East and Antarctica on the South.
  
• This vast Ocean connecting and separating nations has played an important role in shaping many countries’ cultures and ideologies through the movement of goods, people, ideas and religion vide trade, naval power, travel and scientific exploration across the sea. The world’s earliest civilizations in Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, and the Indian subcontinent developed around Indian Ocean. During the 1^st and 2^nd centuries C.E. intensive trade relations developed between Roman, Egyptian and the Tamil Kingdoms in southern India. In 1497 Portuguese navigator Vasco Da Gama was the first European to sail to India. European ships dominated trade which was reinforced in 1869 after the opening of Suez Canal. In 1971 the UN General Assembly declared Indian Ocean a zone of peace by resolution 2832.
  
• The span of the Ocean is 6,200 miles (10,000 kilometres) from the southern tip of Africa to the western coast of Australia. In the southwest it joins the Atlantic Ocean and to the east it joins the Pacific Ocean.
  
• Being the warmest Ocean in the world, the Indian Ocean accounts for 50 per cent of the world’s container traffic and the ports of Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) region handle about 30 per cent of global trade. Around 66 per cent of the world’s seaborne trade in oil transits the Indian Ocean. Roughly 55 per cent of known oil reserves, and around 40 per cent of gas reserves, are in the Indian Ocean region. Study of the Spice route, Cotton route, Perfume route etc. indicates what a vital role had been played by Indian Ocean for centuries in the history of Maritime trade. Today Indian Ocean is very much a part of global economy and is considered truly a Ratnakara – “the mine of gems” as mentioned in old treaties.
  
• The rise of Chola Dynasty in the Peninsular India unfolded a new chapter in the annals of the country when for the first time any ruling dynasty endeavoured to conquer high seas and to expand its hegemony and dominance across the seas through development of a strong naval force. The Coronation of Rajendra Chola l in 1014 C.E. was an epoch making event in the history of the Indian subcontinent, and an important and bright chapter in the glorious history of Indian Ocean. Son of the great Rajaraja Chola l, King Rajendra is credited with expanding the Chola Empire across the seas to South-East Asia and to the North up to the Ganges, with his navy, earning him the sobriquet ‘Gangai Kondan’.
  
• Cross cultural linkages between India and the erstwhile empires and contemporary nations of the South east Asia and Far East can be traced back to the vast Chola Empire which was at the pinnacle of its glory during the reign of Emperor Rajendra Chola I, whose writ and supreme dominance extended beyond India to empires which accepted his suzerainty consequent to his successful and heroic naval exploits.
  
• Apart from the military and territorial conquests which expanded the zone of influence and hegemony of the Cholas, the reign of the great Rajendra Chola l also witnessed growth in the soft power of India as his naval expeditions laid a strong foundation for promotion of trade, commerce and cultural exchanges which brought fabulous economic prosperity on one hand and expansion of Indian culture and heritage across the Indian ocean to the land of South East Asia on the other.
  
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent and Internet.

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