Issued by India

Issued on Sep 18, 2017

Credits :
Stamp/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure : Shri Suresh Kumar
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (3)

Stamps Printed : 0.5 million each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) which is an international organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources has divided the Birds into Categories. The IUCN issues a Red List, in which IUCN categorizes species into nine different categories on the basis of rate of decline, population size, area of geographic distribution, and degree of population and distribution fragmentation. One such Category of Birds is “Vulnerable” (VU), wherein those Birds species comes which have high risk of endangerment in the wild.
• The Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of three stamps on the following three Vulnerable birds.
• Nilgiri Wood Pigeon / Columba elphinstonii (Sykes, 1833):
  • This pigeon qualifies as Vulnerable owing to its small, declining population; a consequence of the widespread destruction of its forest habitat. This Bird is thought to be endemic to the hill-ranges of the Western Ghats, south-west India, occurring from north-west Maharashtra, through Karnataka and Goa, to southern Kerala and western Tamil Nadu. This Bird is a large pigeon with mostly chestnut-maroon upperparts and greyish head and underparts. Prominent black-and-white patterned hindneck. Uniform dark slaty tail. Juveniles have less distinct neck pattern and are duller above with chestnut fringing on mantle and wing-coverts. The species does not necessarily occur across all suitable forest patches in Sahyadri Tiger Reserve – a part of Northern Western Ghats, which is suggestive of possible overestimation in the current projected range of the species in Western Ghats. It is virtually confined to moist evergreen, semi-evergreen forest, and moist deciduous forest including densely wooded ravines and hollows (“sholas”), chiefly in foothills and mountains up to 2,250 m, but there have been an increasing number of records in the lowlands down to 20 m. Historically, it was hunted for food and sport, which probably contributed to its decline. Currently, the loss, degradation and increasing fragmentation of forest are a greater concern. It is legally protected in India and occurs in several protected areas. A remote sensing project is planned to attempt to delimit the range and assess rates of forest loss.
• Broad Tailed Grass Warbler / Schoenicola platyurus (Jerdon, 1844):
  • This species has a small, fragmented, declining range and population as a result of the clearance and modification of grasslands. It therefore qualifies as Vulnerable. This Bird is endemic to the Western Ghats, India, where it is known from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Large, plain warbler with whitish underparts and broad, rounded tail. Rufescent-brown upperparts when breeding, but colder and greyer when plumage worn. Faint, dark cross-bars on tail and narrow, pale supercilium that extends to just behind eye. It inhabits dense, tall grass and reeds, interspersed with patchy scrub and bushes on open hillsides, sometimes on steep slopes, but particularly marshy or damp depressions around hilltops, at 900-2,000 m. It also occurs in dense screw pine swamps, lemon grass and dwarf dates and at the edges of forest. This species is threatened by the mismanagement of native shola grasslands, as these habitats are little valued and many areas have been planted with exotic tree species. It is known to occur in several protected areas, including Bramhagiris Wildlife Sanctuary, Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Kalakkad–Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary and Silent Valley National Park.
• Nilgiri Pipit / Anthus nilghiriensis (Sharpe, 1885):
  • This species is listed as Vulnerable because it has a small range in which its habitat is severely fragmented and declining in extent and quality, which in turn is suspected to be driving a decline in its small population. This species is endemic to the Western Ghats of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, southern India. It is locally fairly common within its small range, particularly above 2,000 m. Surveys conducted in 2002-2004 found the species to be almost extinct at some former sites, suggesting that the population is in decline. It occurs on grassy upland slopes interspersed with bushes and trees, mainly above 1,500 m, and is commonest over 2,000 m, but sometimes descends to 1,000 m. The species has been observed to feed mostly on creeping grass in valleys, but to nest in marshy grasslands with slightly taller grasses and sedges, particularly near streams. Nilgiri pipit has broad deep buff to whitish supercilium, darker buff ear-coverts, sometimes some dark spots in malar region; crown and upperparts tawny-olive or warm grey-brown with greenish-yellow tinge; crown to mantle and scapulars heavily streaked blackish-brown, back to uppertail coverts streaked grey-brown. Remiges and wing coverts dark brown, with two wing bars. Tail dark brown. Throat, breast and flanks deep buff; belly paler buff, with blackish brown streaks on breast and flanks. Iris dark brown; bill blackish; legs pale pink or yellowish pink.
  • Its grassland habitat is gradually being converted to plantations of tea, eucalyptus and silver wattle. The unintentional spread of wattle and invasive scotch broom to grasslands is another long-term threat. Livestock grazing and frequent fires also pose threats to the species.
• Text : Based on the material available on internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 17, 2016

Issued for : The Department of Posts is pleased to release a set of four stamps on the following four birds under the Category of Near Threatened (NT) species.

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

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500, 1000, 1500 & 2500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.3 million each (in the form of sheetlets)

Miniature Sheet Printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Birds are found all over the world – Antarctic and Arctic to Deserts of Sahara and Kalhari, Tropical South America and Africa to Himalayan forest and Pelagic islands. In India, there are around 1200 species of birds. Birds are Warm blooded animals – body covered with feather – which can fly, swim and walk – lay eggs.
  
• The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) which is an international organization working in the field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources has divided the Birds into Categories. The IUCN issues a Red List, which assesses the conservation status of species worldwide. In this Red List, the IUCN categorizes species into nine different categories on the basis of rate of decline, population size, area of geographic distribution, and degree of population and distribution fragmentation. One such Category of Birds is “Near Threatened” (NT), wherein the Birds which are likely to become endangered in the near future come.
  
• Nicobar Pigeon / Caloenas nicobarica (Linnaeus 1758): This species is classified as Near Threatened because throughout its wide range it is thought to be declining as a result of capture for food and the pet trade, habitat destruction and predation by introduced mammals. Nicobar Pigeon is a small island specialist; it occurs on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is the only living member of the genus Caloenas. The global population size has not been quantified, but the species is described as generally scarce to rare, although locally commoner on smaller islets. It normally breeds, often in dense colonies, on extremely small, wooded offshore islands and forages in situ or on adjacent mainland (or larger island) areas up to at least 500 m. It prefers uninhabited and remote islets with original forest vegetation, though these must be close enough to large areas of lowland rainforest which it requires for foraging. Trapping for food, the pet trade and perhaps for their gizzard-stones is a serious threat. The clearance of small islands for plantations and the adjacent areas of lowland forest which it requires for foraging must have reduced numbers. Predation by rats Rattus spp., cats and other alien predators at nesting grounds can affect large numbers of birds due to the colonial nature of the species.
  
• Nilgiri Flycatcher / Eumyias albicaudatus (Jerdon, 1840): This species is listed as Near Threatened because it occupies a moderately small, fragmented range, and is likely to be experiencing a continuing decline owing to a number of emerging threats associated with human population increase; it therefore almost meets the requirements for listing as threatened under criterion of IUCN. However, little is currently known about the population size and specific threats to this species. This species is an endemic resident in the Western Ghats of southern India, where it can be common in suitable habitat. While its range is small, its tolerance for disturbed habitats suggests that it is not immediately threatened by habitat modification. The population size is unknown, but the species is described as common, especially at higher elevations. The population is suspected to be in decline owing to ongoing habitat destruction. It occurs in evergreen hill forests and woodlands favouring forest edges, clearings, dense vegetation near streams, shade coffee and cardamom plantations and sholas, from 600 m to the summits, being most numerous above 1,200 m. It forages alone or in loose association with other flycatchers in the lower storeys of vegetation on insects and berries. It breeds from February until June. An increasing human population has led to increased illegal encroachment into Western Ghat forests, livestock grazing and the harvesting of fuel wood, notably for tea factories and huge quantities of forest products such as bamboo and canes.
  
• Black-and-orange Flycatcher / Ficedula nigrorufa (Jerdon, 1839): This species occupies a moderately small range, within which a number of potential threats are emerging. It is currently considered Near Threatened as a result, but continued monitoring of the population and threats to it is necessary. It is an endemic resident in the Western Ghats of southern India, where it is locally common. The population size is unknown, but the species is described as common or locally common. The population is suspected to be in decline owing to ongoing habitat destruction. It inhabits shola forests with dense undergrowth (bamboo and rattan) and plenty of leaf-litter, cardamom and coffee plantations, and moist thickets in ravines from 700 m to the highest summits. It forages low down and on the ground, hopping in damp, dense undergrowth. Breeding is between March and July. While its range is small, its tolerance for modified habitats suggests that it is not immediately threatened. However, an increasing human population has led to increased illegal encroachment into Western Ghat forests, livestock grazing and the harvesting of fuel wood, notably for use in tea factories, and huge quantities of forest products such as bamboo and canes. Furthermore, hydroelectric power development and road-building are causing reductions in forest cover in some areas. These factors require monitoring as, left uncontrolled; they will threaten the area’s endemic avifauna.
  
• Andaman Woodpecker / Dryocopushodgei (Blyth 1860): This species has a small range, in which it is likely to be affected by habitat loss and degradation, probably more so in the near future. However, its population is not regarded as severely fragmented or restricted to a few locations. It is therefore considered Near Threatened, and should be carefully monitored. It is endemic to the Andaman islands, India, where it is a common resident. They are generally found in tropical evergreen forests of this archipelago. They forages mainly on trunks of large trees or on main branches. The population size of this species has not been quantified, but it is described as common. Trend data are lacking, but this species apparently remains common and widespread. It is likely to have declined to some degree as a result of habitat loss. This species occurs in evergreen forest, as well as in open areas with sparse patches of taller trees. It occurs mainly in the lowlands. Although forest remains fairly extensive on the Andamans, the human population on larger islands is rising rapidly and habitat is consequently under pressure from agriculture, grazing and logging.
  
• 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 Israel

Issued on Jun 23, 2014

Description of the Stamps and the First Day Cover :
Near Eastern Fire Salamander stamp and tab, Southern Banded Newt stamp: photos by Guy Haimovitch.

Eastern Spadefoot Toad tab and stamp, stamp sheet margins and FDC: photos by Pini Hemo.

Hula Painted Frog stamp and tab, Southern Banded Newt tab: photos by Dror Galili. 

Type : Se-tenant pair of Stamps with Tabs, Mint Condition and First Day Cover along with Stamp and a Special First Day Cancellation

Security mark : Microtext

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 2 Shekel each

Plate : 950

Stamps per Sheet : 8

Tabs per Sheet : 4

Method of Printing : Offset

Printer : Joh. Enschede, The Netherlands

About : 

• This stamp series presents four of the seven amphibian species currently inhabiting Israel. All four species are endangered locally or globally. Human activity has harmed the amphibian class more than other vertebrates. Due to their extreme sensitivity, amphibians serve as a bio-indicator of deterioration in the global environment. Amphibians have mainly been harmed in Israel as a result of their habitats being destroyed, but the key reason for their being endangered in the world is infectious diseases which are mostly spread as a result of trade in amphibians.
• Southern Banded Newt : 
  • Scientific Name : Ommatotriton vittatus.
  • The Southern Banded Newt lives along the edges of winter pools in the Mediterranean area of Israel. The adults are active from the beginning of winter. They are reddish-brown in color with a white abdomen and orange edges. This species eats small invertebrates. During the mating season the males grow a crest of skin and enter the water. Once the male locates a female, a courting ritual begins, at the end of which the male lays a sperm sac on the ground for the female to absorb. The eggs are laid on plant leaves, which the female rolls up in order to protect them. The tadpoles develop over the course of a number of months, and then leave the winter. This species is classified as being critically endangered in Israel.

• Hula Painted Frog : 
  • Scientific Name : Latonia nigriventer.
  • The Hula Painted Frog was first documented in the Hula Valley in the 1940’s. Later, after not being seen since the 1950’s, it was the first amphibian species in the world to be classified as being extinct. It was rediscovered in the Hula Nature Reserve in November 2011 and since then additional frogs of this species have been found in the reserve and the surrounding area, attesting to the existence of an active population. There is very little biological and ecological information about this species. It was recently discovered that the Hula Painted Frog belongs to a species that became extinct in Europe one million years ago. This finding means that this species is a living fossil. It is classified as being critically endangered in the world.

• Eastern Spade–foot Toad : 
  • Scientific Name : Pelobates syriacus.
  • The Eastern Spadefoot Toad lives along the edges of winter pools in the Mediterranean area of Israel. There are approximately 40 known populations in Israel. The populations in the Golan Heights and the Upper Galilee are genetically different than those in the Lower Galilee and the Coastal Plain. The adults are nocturnal and active from the beginning of the rainy season, but only when it rains. During the day these toads burrow deep into the soil, using the bony spade-like tubercles located on their hind legs. This species eats invertebrates, mostly snails, Mating takes place in the water and the notably large tadpoles (up to 20 cms) develop over the course of 3-5 months. Once the pools begin to dry up the tadpoles roll out of the water. The number of Eastern Spadefoot Toad populations found in Israel is decreasing, and the species is classified as being critically endangered.

• Near Eastern Fire Salamander : 
  • Scientific Name : Salamandra infraimmaculata.
  • The Near Eastern Fire Salamander lives along the edges of winter pools, streams and springs on Mt. Hermon, in the Galilee and in the Carmel mountains. Adults (up to 30 cms) are mainly active in the winter. Their black and orange coloring serves as a warning of the toxin that is secreted on their skin. Mating takes place on land. The male locates a female and lays a sperm sac, which the female absorbs. The female spawns 15-100 tadpoles in the water, which then develop over the course of a number of months until they roll out of the water. This species is classified as being endangered in Israel.

• The above text is provided by Prof. Sarig Gafny, School of Marine Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 16, 2012

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to participate in an effort for conservation of the rich bio-diversity of the country by issuing a set of four Commemorative Postage Stamps and a miniature sheet on Endemic Species of Indian Bio-diversity Hotspots.

Credits:
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500, 500, 500 & 2500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.4 Million each (0.1 million each for the proponent)

Miniature Sheet : 0.4 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• In recent years, sustaining bio-diversity and maintaining ecological balance has come under increasing pressure due to factors such as habitat fragmentation, development imperatives and global warming. The global concern about loss of bio-diversity found expression in the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) which was adopted at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. The Convention has three objectives : conservation of bio-diversity, sustainable use of its components and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. CBD is the first comprehensive global agreement addressing all aspects relating to bio-diversity. The Conference of the Parties is the governing body of the Convention on Biological Diversity and advances implementation of the Convention through the decisions it takes at its periodic meetings.
• The tenth ordinary meeting of the Conference of Parties was held in Nagoya, Japan (18-29 October 2010). India is hosting the eleventh Conference of Parties to the CBD in Hyderabad from 1^st to 19^th October 2012. Department of Posts is issuing a set of four Commemorative Postage Stamps and a miniature sheet depicting the following four endemic species of Indian Bio-diversity Hotspots to commemorate COP-11.
• 1. Bugun Liocichla (Liocichla Bugunorum) – This species has been classified as vulnerable under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
• 2. Nicobar Megapode (Megapodius Nicobariensis) – As the name suggests this species is endemic to the Nicobar Islands, India. The total number of their breeding pairs was estimated at 788 in 2006. It inhabits forests and secondary growth, with greater concentration in coastal forests. The key threat to their existence is the loss of coastal forests through conversion to agriculture and road development projects which threaten to fragment habitat blocks.
• 3. Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock Hoolock) – This species, the only ape in India is a forest dweller. The species is an important seed disperser. Its diet includes mostly ripe fruits with some flowers, leaves and shoots. The threats to Hoolock Gibbon in the wild, include habitat encroachment by the human beings, forest clearance for cultivation and forest degradation.
• 4. Venated Gliding Frog (Rhacophorus Malabaricus) – This critically endangered species of frog is restricted to the Indira Gandhi National Park and its surroundings in Tamil Nadu, in the South Western Ghats, within an altitudinal range of 1000-1300 metres. The main threat to its existence is conversion of forested areas to cultivated land and the extraction of wood and timber by local people.
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 14, 2011

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to release a set of postage stamps designed by children.

Design : This year we are presenting the collection of prize winning entries, at the national level on a set of two stamps, Minisheet, First Day Cover. The paintings by ad seriatim are by: 1. Shreeraksha, V Class, Karnataka, 2. A. Priya Dharsini, V Class, Tamil Nadu, 3. Riya Dutta, IV Class, H.P., 4. Ashik Purushotham, Vlll Class, Kerala, 5. Jayashree Sahu, Vlll Class, Orissa, 6. Rangoli Pandey, VII Class, U.P., 7. Shubham Sahu, X Class C.G, 8. Nishi Bordia, IX Class, M.P., 9. Jai Surya P, IX Class, Kerala. Each painting is a message in itself with the plea to all of us that saving the tiger will save our eco system for the generations to come.

Credits :
Stamp, FDC, Miniature sheet & Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 & 2000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.3 Million Each

Miniature Sheet : 0.1 Million

Printing Process : Wet offset

Printer : I.S.P. Nashik

About : 

• Each year the Department of Posts brings out special postage stamp on Children’s Day to mark the birth anniversary of India‘s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 14^th November.
  
• India Post, to create awareness on the tigers which are one of the most endangered species in the world and also on the verge of extinction, conducted ‘Design a Stamp’ contest with the theme to save “The Tiger” on 12.12.2010 as one of the special events of INDIPEX 2011.
  
• Children through their paintings had highlighted the critical areas that have caused the drastic decline of tiger population in India in a creative way.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 16, 2009

Issued for : Life began in water, and these endangered species of the ocean and the river are ringing a vital bell which we should pay serious attention to. Through this joint issue of stamps India and Philippines not only mark 60 years of their relationship, but also turn the spotlight on one of the major global concerns of today : protecting wildlife and its habitat, and ecology.

Credits :
Stamp & FDC : Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 & 2000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 1.5 Million each

Miniature Sheets : 0.4 Million

Printing Process : Wet–offset

Printer : India Security Press, Nasik

About : 

• India and Philippines established formal diplomatic relations on November 16,1949 following the independence of the Philippines in 1946 and of India in 1947 and have since maintained good and cordial relations. Over the years, the two countries have signed several agreements, which provide a broad framework for bilateral ties between the two countries. As members of various multilateral fora, the two countries have coordinated their positions on several regional and international issues, strengthening bilateral relations and mutually beneficial cooperation facilitated by high level visits and various agreements. With bilateral trade, cooperation in several areas such as oil gas, non convention sources of energy, agricultural research etc., the two countries are also attuned to concerns for ecological issues.
• Marine mammals, because of their intelligence, visibility and frequent interactions with humans, hold a special place in people’s mind. The biggest threat to them is their accidental capture or entanglement in fishing gear which kills hundreds of thousands of them each year. The other major factor of their decline is due to destruction or degradation of their natural habitat.
• Butanding :
  • The Philippines is the world’s second-largest archipelago. Located in Southeast Asia, its 7,107 islands straddle the Coral Triangle, making them one of the top marine biodiversity hotspots in the world.
  • The whale shark (Rhincodon typus), known locally as the Butanding, is among the best loved marine animals that populate or visit Philippine waters. The Butanding is the largest variety of shark and can measure up to 20 meters in length and weigh more than 30 tons, i.e. the largest living fish species, but in spite of its size, this animal is known to be remarkably gentle. The Butanding is a slow moving, filter-feeding shark having very large mouth, fed mainly on plankton, microscopic plants, and animals.
  • Donsol in Sorsogon province has been declared as a sanctuary for the whale sharks and there is now a thriving eco-tourism program in place that allows people to see and swim with these “gentle giants of the deep.” An animal festival is also held in the municipality in honour of the fascinating creatures.
• Gangetic Dolphin :
  • The Gangetic river dolphin occurs only in the fresh water rivers of India and Bangladesh. It is known as the fresh water tiger. Today it is a highly threatened species. Dams and barrages had posed a major threat to this water dolphin as they isolate the dolphins preventing them from swimming freely up and down the river.
  • The Ganges River dolphin weighs up to 90 kg and measures 1.5- 2.5 meters (4.9-8.2 ft) in length. It eats a variety of fish and invertebrates. The stomach contents of dolphin have included prawns, clams, catfish, freshwater shark etc. The seasonal habits and movements of the Ganges River dolphin are not well known, but there is some evidence of seasonal change in distribution, with animals travelling upstream as the water level rises, and entering smaller streams. The waters that it inhabits are extremely murky. Probably for this reason, the dolphin’s sight has degenerated. Its eye lacks a lens, and the dolphin is sometimes referred to as being blind, although its eyes do seem to function as a direction-finding device. To find food, it probably uses echolocation and also probes with its sensitive snout for fish, shrimp, and other organisms in the bottom mud. Blindness is one of the reasons why this dolphin swims on one side underwater, with one flipper trailing in the muddy riverbed. The physical touch may give the dolphin important information about its surroundings and help it to find food.
  • The dolphins living a pathetic life in the Ganga are fighting a losing battle for their survival. The threat to their life is the commercial fishing and ecologically insensitive irrigation practices along the river. Polluted water flowing into the river from a number of tributaries are severely straining the habitat of these shy mammals. Adding further to its miseries, a huge quantity of water taken out of the Ganga through numerous irrigation barrages are making the river shallow day by day.
  • Vikramshila Ganges River Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar State of India has been notified under the Wild Life Protection Act 1972 for conservation of Ganges River Dolphin.
• Text : Based on material provided by the Ministry of External Affairs, Embassy of the Philippines and also through internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 5, 2006

Issued for : In bringing out a set of four commemorative stamps and maxim cards on endangered bird species, India Posts celebrates the unique beauty of each, while carrying forward the message of conservation.

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

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multicolour

Denomination : 500 Paise each

Stamps Printed : 3.0 Million each

Printing Process : Photogravure

Printer : India Security Press, Nashik

About : 

• The earth sustains myriad forms of life, but not all forms have survived down the ages. Many animal species have become extinct, and many more are endangered.
• The greatest threat to animal life today is posed by the rapid shrinking of physical habitat, largely due to the pressures of human population growth around the world: while hunting and trapping have already depleted the numbers of many animal species, it is the large-scale transformation of landscapes, the levelling of forests, the filling up of swamps and marshes, and so on, which have left many creatures with literally no room to live or breathe in. Environmental pollution and chemical pollutants have also wrought havoc with the habitat, while pesticides and insecticides have contributed to the decimation of small animals while also affecting their ability to breed.
• The four species of endangered Indian birds featured are:–
  • 1. Manipur Bush–Quail, “Perdicula manipurensis” :–
    Inhabits stands of tall grassland and feeds in groups in the open, on grass seeds, wild lentils, and insects. Once endemic to the wet grasslands of north east India, there has been no confirmed sighting of the bird since 1935.
  • 2. Lesser Florican, “Sypheotides Indica” :–
    A large bird of the bustard family and the only member of genus sypheotides. Inhabiting grasslands including standing fields of cotton and millets, the birds feed on grain, greenshoots, seeds, and beetles.
  • 3. Greater Adjutant Stork, “Leptoptilos dubius” :–
    A large wading bird of the stork family Ciconiidae, the bird is found in the tropical wetlands of north and north-east of India. This is a huge bird, typically 145 to 150 cm tall with a 250 cm wingspan. The birds feed mainly on frogs, large insects, reptiles, lizards, and fish.
  • 4. Nilgiri Laughingthrush, “Garrulax Cachinnans” :–
    Endemic to Nilgiri hills, this species feeds on insects and berries especially wild raspberry and hill guava. A noisy bird, its call is a spirited ‘laughing’, oft repeated. It breeds during February to July and makes a cup shaped nest of grass, rootlets, moss etc. in a bush or a small tree.
• Text : Based on material provided by the Bombay Natural History Society.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 24, 2005

Issued for : The Department of Posts is happy to issue a set of four postage stamps on the Flora & Fauna of North East India.

Credit :
Stamp & FDC : Sankha Samantha
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multicolour

Denomination : 500 Paisa each

Stamps Printed : 3 Million each

Miniature Sheets : 0.1 Million 

Printing Process : Photo Gravure

Printer : India Security Press, Nasik

About : 

• The North-East India, a paradise of natural beauty is a home to rich bio-diversity. The Eastern Himalayas, marked by a sharp southward bend from the East-West trend of the Central Himalayas, are much greener due to high rainfall and present a rare physiographical picture. The Brahmaputra valley and the adjoining plains are as sharply contrasted from the Garo, Khasi, Jaintia, Lushai Hills as are the various tribes and non-tribal population. Their geographical isolation has resulted into evolution of exotic and rare plant and animal species.
• Department of Posts is issuing a set of four stamps depicting the flora & fauna of North-East India as described below.
• Clouded leopard [Nenfelis nebulosa (Griffith)]
  • The clouded leopard is found in the forests of Sikkim, Assam and adjoining Bhutan and Nepal. It is listed as endangered animal under schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act 1972. It is largely arboreal and inhabits dense evergreen forests where it hunts its prey by night. The Clouded pattern of the flanks is formed by dark blotches more or less lined with black and divided by paler interspaces. These characteristics differentiate it from other cat family animals. Its feet resemble those of the panther, tiger and the lion. The markings of the clouded leopard give it beauty and majesty.
• Mishmi Takin (Budorcas taxicolor Hodgson)
  • In India, takin is found only in the Mishmi hills and Arunachal Pradesh. It is also found in Bhutan Himalayas and in the mountains of the Salveen–Irrawaddy divide. It is listed as endangered animal under schedule I Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
  • They live in the steepest and most thickly wooded declivities of their native mountains. They are usually found in the dense bamboo and rhododendron jungle at altitude of 2100-3000 m. In the summer they can be seen in herd. The takin adult male is golden-yellow and young male is reddish brown in front merging into black.
• Dillenia Indica Linn. (Dilleniaceae)
  • A handsome evergreen tree upto 30-80 ft., is commonly seen along banks of forest streams, also found in the moist and evergreen forests of sub-Himalayan tract, Assam and Bengal.
  • Leaf is oblong – lanceolate, flowers large, white fragrant and solitary, fruit large and hard.
  • The timber is used in the form of planks & rafters and for making tool handles and bottoms of boats. The ripe fruit is used as flavouring in curries, jams and jellies. The bark and leaves are astringent. Dried leaves are used as a substitute for sand paper.
• The Pitcher plant (Nepenthes khasiana)
  • The Pitcher plant (Nepenthes khasiana) Hk is endemic to Meghalaya. It is found in the Jarain area of the Jaintia Hills and the Baghmara area of the Garo Hills as well as in the Khasi Hills.
  • The most interesting part of the Pitcher plant is its leaf. The leaf is modified into different parts – the lamina, the pitcher, the lid and the tendril. The Pitcher is the special modification designed to catch insects. At the apex of the pitcher is the lid which covers the pitcher. The Pitcher plant is unique in that it is an insectivorous plant, trapping insects in the pitcher for its nutrition.
  • The only Nepenthes species native to India, N. khasiana is a remarkably plastic plant, able to adjust to a wide variety of climatic conditions. It is considered the most cold-tolerant Nepenthes, and is reported to be able to withstand temperatures as low as -2 C. The size of the pitcher ranges between 2 inches to 10 inches.
  • The plant is called Tiew-Rakot, which means demon-flower by the Khasis while it is called Kset Phae by the Jaintias, Kset meaning net with a lid and Phare meaning fly. In the Garo Hills, it is called memang-Koksi, which translates as the basket of the devil.
  • The Pitcher plant  is an endangered species and its export is prohibited.
• Text : Based on material given by proponents.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 12, 2003

Issued for : The Department of Posts draws attention to these beautiful, mysterious and fascinating creatures with this set on snakes in the series celebrating Nature India. Its release coincides with the publication of the 100^th volume of the Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Since its inception in 1886, the journal of the Bombay Natural History Society has recorded the biodiversity and its conservation in the Indian Subcontinent. The first day cover commemorates the publication of the hundredth volume of its Journal and its contribution in helping the conservation of endangered species.

Credits :
Stamp : Sankha Samanta
FDC : Courtesy Bombay Natural History Society
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamps, Postal Used

Colour : Four Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise each

Overall size : 2.9 x 3.91 Cms.

Printing size : 2.9 x 3.91 Cms.

Perforation : 13 x 13

Paper : Imported un w/m Adhesive stamp paper

Print Quantity :
Stamps : 0.8 Million each
Miniature Sheet : 50000

Number of Stamps per sheet : 40

Printing Process : Photo offset

Printer : Madras Security Printers

About : 

• Snakes hold a fascination for people across the world, a fascination reflected in epics, myths, art, legends, folklore, religion poetry, music, dance, fiction and now, films. The ethos of India swings from snake charmers to information technology.
• Snakes are members of the Order Squamata of reptiles and 262 species are reported in India of which 56 are venomous. The venom serves them as a means to capture prey, a self defence mechanism and a digestive aid. Not all snake bites are fatal. Often the fright and shock alone kill the victim.
• The Python (Python molurus) is one of the largest and most widely distributed non-venomous snakes in India. Normally a jungle dweller, it occurs in dense as well as open forests, with rocky areas. The Python is a good climber, often hiding among branches of trees and is also an excellent swimmer. It feeds on mammals, birds and reptiles, but seems to prefer mammals. Killed in large numbers for its skin, the Python is an endangered species included in Schedule-1 of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• The bright green Bamboo Pit-Viper (Trimeresurus gramineus) is one of the tree dwelling, hill species in the Western Ghats and not seen below 450m. It is found in low vegetation, with a marked preference for bamboo in localities where it occurs. Grass green above and glossy white, yellow or greenish below, its colours provide a camouflage on trees, its prime habitat. It feeds mainly on small mammals and birds. Though its venom is not very toxic, it causes pain and swelling of the bitten part, nausea, vomiting and fever. The snake gives birth to 7-15 young ones at a time.
• The King Cobra or Hamadryad (Ophiophagus hannah) is the largest species of venomous snake in the world. Though not common in India, it is found in and around dense jungles of hills in peninsular India. It has earned for itself an unenviable reputation for an aggressiveness and courage probably unique among the Indian species. Like the Cobra, it erects its head and body to about one-third its length and spreads its hood. The staple diet of this species is snakes. The female builds a nest of leaves and sand, hooking the leaves with a loop of her body and piling them up. She lays eggs in this nest, covers them with the litter and coils on top of the leaf-covered clutch.
• The Gliding Snake (Chrysopelea Ornata) is a handsome tree dweller who frequently descends to the grass and low bushes. A graceful and agile climber, it moves from branch to branch or up a perpendicular tree trunk with consummate ease. Several instances of its ability to spring horizontally and upwards, and to glide from a height to the ground to another tree are recorded. In gliding, it launches itself straight, becomes rigid and hollows its belly, buoying its body and retarding the speed of descent. The distance covered in one gliding action is recorded as 50 m.
• Text : Courtesy Bombay Natural History Society.

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