Issued by India

Issued on May 29, 2025

Issued for : The Department of Posts proudly issues a commemorative stamp marking 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood. It is a tribute to the state’s progress and unique identity, and commemorates five decades of unity, development, and contribution to the nation’s diversity.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Shri Kamleshwar Singh

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 305757

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The State of Sikkim is unique in many ways that draw attention from every corner of the world. The land echoes tales of divine blessings, blending tradition and modernity in harmony, creating unity in diversity with strong civic sense.
• Sikkim became the 22^nd State of India in 1975, shifting from a monarchy to a democracy. Since then, the state has had a 32-member legislative assembly that ensures fair governance and public participation.
• Rivers Teesta and Rangeet meander through the mountains and hills, providing water to the people for their needs and for life itself. While the rivers help with farming and agriculture, they also weave folklore of the land.
• Mount Khangchendzonga, the tallest peak in the country, blesses every being with radiating crepuscular rays over hills and homes. The foundation of life itself has always revolved around maintaining equilibrium between the flora and fauna and the human communities. This very essence describes the sentiment of every Sikkimese.
• The state has recorded forest land area that covers 82.31% of its geographical area. More than 4500 flowering plants with 532 species of wild, indigenous orchids, about 28 species of bamboo and over 300 species of ferns make it a botanist’s paradise. In the animal kingdom, more than 600 species of birds and butterflies, red pandas, snow leopards, musk deer, blue sheep, leopard cat, and flying squirrels are some of the species found in this small state.
• The remarkable biodiversity of Sikkim also earned the state the first “Mixed Heritage” site of India in 2016, with Khangchendzonga National Park that falls under one of the rare high-altitude national parks of the country.
• Since the time Sikkim became the 22^nd state of the Indian Union in 1975, Sikkim has experienced changes that make it one of the most distinctive states across the nation through its forward-thinking approaches and people-oriented governance. The state pioneered organic farming by establishing itself as India’s first fully organic state through a quiet revolution, which combined traditional agricultural practices with scientific methods. This policy move represented a fundamental expression regarding identity control alongside ecological intelligence. The organic agricultural output from Sikkim has evolved into an important economic resource. Sikkim has emerged as an exceptional eco-tourism destination, which demonstrates how local people can gain from tourism while protecting vulnerable natural environments. The tourism industry in Sikkim now functions as a platform for cultural education while supporting local empowerment through village-run homestays and elderly-led heritage walks. The world discovers Sikkim’s monasteries along with its lakes and rhododendron paths and biodiversity, but it learns about slow living together with humility and coexistence. Sikkim has maintained a tourism policy that differs from exploitative models by establishing a respectful and responsible framework based on reciprocity. The modern tools of today have been accepted by Sikkim in harmony with its cultural wealth. The state continues to lead digital innovation through its high literacy rate by implementing smart villages and electronic government services and sustainable infrastructure.
• Better infrastructure now exists throughout the mountains while educational facilities have improved, and both physical and digital connectivity have made significant advancements. Modernisation in this state has preserved traditional practices because it has improved them. Village knowledge centres coexist with monasteries, and solar-powered homes exist in harmony with age-old stone dwellings. Youth who previously migrated for education and employment now have an opportunity to stay at home to establish startups while curating cultural events and working on conservation projects, and developing creative business ideas that reconnect them with their heritage.
• The commemoration of Sikkim’s fifty years as an Indian state is a journey of people, values, and landscapes. It is about how a small state with a population of just over six lakh people has shown the world that development does not have to come at the expense of identity, that tradition does not have to be opposed to innovation, and that a deep sense of belonging can drive bold futures. Sikkim is always reimagining itself without ever forgetting who it is.
• From the first hoisting of the Indian flag in Gangtok to the establishment of institutions that empower its people, from the preservation of Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali languages to the digital aspirations of the next generation, the story of Sikkim is not a straight line but a beautifully winding path through mountains – each turn offering a new vista, each step grounded in grace. In its quiet strength and gentle wisdom, Sikkim shows us what it truly means to honour one’s roots while reaching for the sky.
• Text : Referenced from the content provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jul 26, 2024

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to release commemorative postage stamps on the Silver Jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces. This special issue celebrates 25 years of India’s victory in the Kargil War and pays tribute to our heroes.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Gulistaan

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 304000

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Indian Army has an unparalleled military tradition of determination, bravery and sacrifice led by its junior leaders in battle. This tradition manifested in the summer of 1999, when Operation Vijay was launched by the Indian Army to evict Pakistani intruders from the icy heights of Dras, Kargil and Batalik Sectors of Ladakh. Raw courage, daring, tenacity and heroic efforts displayed by our soldiers and young officers ensured triumph of the Indian Army in this operation also referred to as the Kargil War.
• Post-Independence Pakistan’s obsession with annexing Kashmir saw several failed military ventures and finally it resorted to Operation Badr whereby while extending the olive branch during the Lahore Summit in February 1999, it surreptitiously occupied the winter vacated posts in the Kargil District of Ladakh. This was done to cut off National Highway (NH) – 1 with an overall aim to sever Ladakh from Kashmir thereby forcing the vacation of Siachen Glacier.
• The Pakistani intrusions took place along the heights of Mashkoh Valley, Tololing and Tiger Hill in Dras Sector; the glaciated heights of Kaksar; Batalik and Ganashok valleys astride the Indus River and in Chorbat La and Turtuk Sectors. The engagements that took place here were classic examples of intense infantry operations in high altitude supported by intimate and high volume artillery barrages. The Indian Army supported by the Indian Air Force began systematically clearing the heights overlooking the NH – 1 including Tololing, Tiger Hill and Pt 4875 and with the NH-1 having been secured, proceeded to clear the rest of the intrusions along the Line of Control.
• The phenomenal tactical and logistical challenges posed to the Indian Army were overcome by a combination of innovation, determination and courage. The intensity of this short war of less than three months, can be measured by the fact that 85 major and minor units participated in war with 559 Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Soldiers making the Supreme Sacrifice and four Param Vir Chakras, 10 Mahavir Chakras and 69 Vir Chakras were awarded. Theatre and Battle Honours were awarded to 29 units while 17 units received the Chief of Army Staff Unit Citations for gallantry during the operations.
• With the advent of satellite television, Operation Vijay became India’s first battle that was taken into the homes across our country by the media and soon Kargil, Batalik, Dras, Muskoh and Turtuk became household names. On 26 July 2024, the Silver Jubilee of the Kargil War, we rededicate ourselves to the memory of the braves who laid down their lives during Operation Vijay, 1999.
• Text : Referenced from content provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Mar 20, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue Commemorative Postage Stamps on 36^th International Geological Congress and celebrates the role of IGC to encourage the advancement of fundamental and applied research in the Earth Sciences world-wide.

Credits :
Stamps / FDC / Brochure : Shri Anuj
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 & 1000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 311100 Each

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Described as the Olympics of Geosciences, the International Geological Congress (IGCs) are held quadrennially, under the aegis of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), the Scientific Sponsor of the IGCs. They draw participants to the tune of around 5000-7000 delegates from all over the world.
• During the mid 19^th century, the necessity of holding an International Congress was strongly felt among the community of geologists in Europe and North America. On occasion of the meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science held in Buffalo, New York, USA, in 1875, a Committee was formed to consider the organization of an International Congress on Geology. The French Geological Society, under President Tournouër, accepted the request and formed an Organizing Committee chaired by Professor E. Hébert. The Committee persuaded the French Government to provide support for convening an international gathering and succeeded to host the First International Geological Congress, as one of 32 Congresses held by the French Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce in the Trocadero Palace. Since then, 35 Congresses have been hosted by more than 21 countries throughout the world at 3 to 5 year intervals.
• The International Geological Congress (IGC) is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization whose meetings are held in collaboration with, and under sponsorship of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS). IUGS holds its General Assemblies in conjunction with Sessions of the IGC. The main purpose of the Congress is to encourage the advancement of fundamental and applied research in the Earth Sciences world-wide.
• The 36^th IGC, themed “Geosciences: The Basic Science for a Sustainable Future” is scheduled to be held during 20-22 March 2022 on a virtual platform. The event is patroned by the Ministry of Mines and Ministry of Earth Sciences with the scientific support from the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and Science Academies of Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Geological Survey of India is the nodal organization of the event.
• The 36^th IGC Society named “36^th International Geological Congress” was created on 27^th April 2016 under the Society Registration Act, 1860, in accordance with the approval of the Cabinet in its meeting held on 2^nd March 2016. Among others, the objective of the Society was to assume full responsibility of all legal, financial, planning and organizational issues of 36^th International Geological Congress (IGC) and post 36^th IGC from year 2020 to function for promotion and advancement of Geosciences in the region.
• 36^th IGC would provide a unique platform for knowledge and experience sharing in the field of geosciences and professional networking. It would provide first hand information on latest technologies in mining, mineral exploration and management of water, mineral resource and environment. It would also facilitate increased academic production and create opportunities for capacity building across geoscientific streams.
• The organization of the event is steered by the President and Security General of 36^th IGC. President chairs the Executive Committee and the Local Organizing Committee. He is also a member of the Governing Body. Security General is a member of the Governing Body, Executive Committee and the Local Organizing Committee.
• Text : Referenced from contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 25, 2021

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on “50 Years of full statehood of Himachal Pradesh”.

Credits :
Stamps/FDC/Brochure : Smt. Vinita Sinha
Cancellation Cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 403825

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Himachal Pradesh came into existence as Chief Commissioner’s Province on 15 April, 1948 exactly eight months after India’s Independence as a result of the integration of 30 small and big princely Hill States. Mr. N. C. Mehta, Indian Civil Service (ICS) was appointed as the first Chief Commissioner assisted by his deputy Mr. E. Penderal Moon, ICS.
• The Mahasu district was formed by merging 26 small and big princely states of Shimla Hill States. Mandi and Suket princely states were merged to form Mandi district. Chamba and Sirmaur were given the status of separate districts. 23 tehsils were formed in these four districts. Himachal Pradesh had an area of 10,451 sq. miles with population of 9,83,367. In July 1954, Bilaspur was merged with Himachal to form the fifth district of the state.
• After the formation of Himachal Pradesh, other leaders including Dr. Y.S. Parmar continued their struggle with the Government of India to form a popular government in the State. Himachal Pradesh was made a part ‘C’ state with the provision for Vidhan Sabha. The first elections for the Vidhan Sabha in Himachal were held in 1952, in which voting was held for 36 seats. In March 1952, Dr. Parmar was sworn in as the first Chief Minister of this state and formed his Cabinet of three members. The other two ministers in his cabinet including were Pandit Gauri Prasad and Pandit Padam Dev.
• In December 1953, the Government of India set up a Commission for the re-organization of States. Dr. Parmar wrote a letter to the chairman of the commission urging him to merge the hilly areas of Punjab in Himachal Pradesh but acting contrary, the commission suggested Himachal Pradesh to be merged with Punjab. This endangered the very existence of Himachal Pradesh. The people and different political parties of the state strongly opposed this suggestion and as a result, the Union of India assured to maintain its separate existence keeping in view of the geographical, cultural and economic conditions of the state. After the enactment of the ‘States Reorganization Act’ in 1956, the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha was abolished on 31 October, 1956 and was replaced by a Territorial Council. Thus, Himachal Pradesh became a Union Territory on 1^st November, 1956.
• Elections to the Territorial Council were held in 1957. On 15 August, 1957, Thakur Karam Singh was sworn in as the Chairman of the Council. The Territorial Council was only a local Self-Government and the Lt. Governor exercised all the powers of administration. However, the people of the State were not satisfied with this system. Ceding to the demand, the Lok Sabha passed the Government of Union Territories Act in 1963 and converted the Territorial Council into Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha on July 1, 1963. As a result, a three-member cabinet was formed again and Dr. Y.S. Parmar became the Chief Minister for the second time.
• Considering the similarity in geographical conditions, culture, social system, language, lifestyle and ethos, the people and politicians of Himachal Pradesh had been long demanding that hilly areas like Kangra, Kullu, Lahaul–Spiti, Shimla, Una, Nalagarh and Dalhousie should be included in Himachal Pradesh.
• When the Government of India set up the ‘Punjab States Reorganization Commission’ in 1965, the Himachal Pradesh Government also sent a draft related to formation of ‘Vishal Himachal’ to the Union of India and the Chairman of the Punjab States Reorganization Commission, to include the hilly areas of Punjab in Himachal. Based on recommendations of the Commission, the Government of India presented ‘Punjab States Reorganization Act’ in parliament and passed it consequently. Kangra, Una, Hamirpur, Kullu, Lahaul–Spiti, Shimla, Nalagarh, Kandaghat and Dalhousie etc. were included in Himachal Pradesh on 1^st November, 1966. With the inclusion of these areas, the total area of Himachal was increased to 55,673 sq. km which continues to be same today.
• Attainment of Statehood
  • The merger of the hilly areas of Punjab with Himachal Pradesh led to the geographical, social, cultural and linguistic reunification of the people but the state was yet to get status of Statehood. In December 1970, the Parliament passed the ‘State of Himachal Pradesh Act-1970’. On 25 January, 1971, the then Prime Minister of India Smt. Indira Gandhi herself visited Shimla and announced to grant the Statehood status to Himachal Pradesh making it the 18^th State of India.
  • Thus, 25 January, a day of great happiness for the hardworking and innocent people, political leaders, freedom fighters and workers of Prajamandals of the state realized the long cherished dream come alive. The State is completing its 50 years of magnificent journey on 25^th January, 2021 and Golden Jubilee Year to be celebrated to make it memorable in annals of history.
• Development journey of the State
  • Himachal Pradesh has traversed through difficult phase for attainment of Statehood. This state, which came into existence on 15 April, 1948, started its onward development journey from scratch, and the development that Himachal Pradesh has achieved is inspiring for other hilly regions during the last 50 years. Since then, the state has witnessed all-round development making a huge leap in socio-economic transformation. Despite tough geographical conditions and limited resources, State has made significant progress in all spheres particularly in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, road network, education and health.
  • According to the available data of 1951-52, the total literacy rate in the state was only 4.8 percent while the female literacy rate was only 2.9 percent. 301 educational institutions were functional in the State, limited to urban areas only. There were only 88 health institutions and 288 km road length. There was lack of facilities with regard to irrigation, drinking water etc. People of villages had to walk miles to fetch water from springs and water bodies. Electricity was available only in six villages. The per capita income was only Rs. 240.
  • An area of 3.92 lakh hectares (1951-52) was cultivated for agricultural purpose and production of food grains were limited to 1.99 lakh metric tonne at that time. The reorganization of Punjab in the year 1966 led to some increase in agricultural land and food production due to new areas added to the state. An area of 7,76,000 hectares was under agriculture while food production was 7,04,000 metric tonne. Today, agricultural activities are being done on 9.55 lakh hectares in the state and food production has also increased to 16.36 lakh metric tonne (year 2019-20).
  • In 1951-52, state had an area of only 792 hectares under horticulture and the yield was only 1200 metric tonne. The area increased to 26,260 hectares in 1966-67 and fruit production reached 45,370 metric tonne. Fruit remained the most important and main cash crop of this region. At present also, horticulture is being carried out over an area of 2,32,139 hectares with the government initiating to develop Himachal Pradesh as a fruit bowl of India and providing various incentives to the horticulturists. Around 7.07 lakh metric tonne of fruit are being produced every year.
  • In the year 1971, when this state attained Statehood, even then the development was limited to select areas. Road length in the state was less than 7740 km. The literacy rate was only 31.3 percent. There were 482 health institutions and 4963 educational institutions. Electricity was available in 2944 villages of the state and the per capita income was only Rs. 651.
  • Today, Himachal stands amongst one of the most progressive and prosperous states in the country. The length of roads in the state has been increased to 38 thousand kilometers. More than 97 percent of the panchayats are connected with roads. A target has been set up to connect the remaining panchayats with roads soon. The numbers of educational institutions have increased to 15,553 and literacy rate is 82.80 percent. A large network of 4,320 health institutions in the state is providing best of the medical facilities to the people. Electricity is available in all the villages of the state today. Moreover, Himachal Pradesh has become a ‘Power Surplus State’ now. The per capita income has also increased to Rs. 1,95,255.
  • The present government has also contributed a lot for taking State to new heights and also ensured overall development of the State. State has received several National level awards for better performance in good development, health, education, sustainable development including agriculture and horticulture during this period. As a result of many new schemes and initiatives, the state is moving ahead on the path of constant progress.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 29, 2019

Issued for : The Char Dham Yatra is sacred; it gives the pilgrim a new life and vision. It is a journey of the self towards the Lord and enables one to experience the sublime. Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of four Commemorative Postage Stamps on Char Dham, Uttarakhand.

Credits :
Stamp/Sheetlet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation cachet : Smt. Alka Sharma

Type : Stamps, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1000 Paise (2), 1500 Paise (2)

Sheetlets Printed : 25000 each of 5 types 

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Religion has always been a cardinal influence on the belief system and way of life of people across the world. A Pilgrimage is a journey undertaken in the light of this intense faith. People walk miles to fulfil their devotional urge. The word Dham literally means an abode where God resides. The Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand consists of four holy sites namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. According to the Hindu tradition, each individual must undertake this holy pilgrimage in order to find salvation and peace after death.
• Yamunotri, as the name itself suggests is derived from one of the most holy rivers of India, the Yamuna. Being the first point amongst the four dhams, it is believed that taking a holy dip in Yamunotri rids the devotees of their sins, washes away the evil deeds. Besides this, there is a temple of historic significance which was built by the king of Tehri in the year 1839. It houses the idol of Goddess Yamuna in the form of black marble idol and also of Ganga Devi in white stone by the side of Yamuna. One of the astonishing characteristics of the place that attracts the pilgrims is the hot water springs found near the temple. The spring is called Surya Kund; devotees boil potatoes and rice in the hot boiling water, which is later accepted as Prasad of Devi.
• Gangotri Dham was built in the reverence of Goddess Ganga, considered to be an epitome of forbearance and sacrifice as she observed herself into the mother Earth to protect humanity from destruction. The temple stands amidst the serenity of exquisite natural beauty facing the Bhagirathi river. The river originates from a glacier called Gaumukh, almost 18 kilometres away from Dham. It is one of the oldest rivers in India and holds a special and sacred place in the heart and soul of the Hindus.
• Kedarnath, situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand is the most far flung amongst the Char Dham heritage sites. Located at a height of nearly 3500 metres above the sea level, the Kedarnath temple is covered in snow throughout the year. The spirituality of the place, the ecstatic experience of seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva in the lap of nature, the snow-capped mountains and the peerless beauty of the temple combine to produce an absolutely fulfilling experience for the pilgrim. Chanting of Vedic hymns and extensive religious rituals are a part and parcel of the functioning of the Shiva temple. The tradition of carrying the idol down to a village called Ukhimath during the winter season is celebrated like a festival.
• Badrinath or Badrinarayan Temple is the most visited temple of India. The temple is located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand alongside Alakhnanda river. It has got its name from the ‘Badri tree’ under which Lord Vishnu was believed to have meditated, oblivious of the extreme weather conditions of the place. The temple has a glorious historic significance as its name is mentioned in ancient religious texts like Vishnu Purana and Skanda Purana; also it is defiled in one of the earliest texts composed by Tamil saints called the Divya Prabandhan. The festival ‘Mata Murti Ka Mela’ is one of the most prominent festivals celebrated at the temple with great pomp and show. It is the commemoration of the descent of river Ganga on mother Earth. It is believed that the mother of Badrinath divided the river into twelve channels for the well-being of humankind; she is therefore, venerated and remembered during the festival. The temple is of immense significance for the Hindu community as it allows them to connect with their ancestors. They offer various oblations in the temple for their ancestors with the help of a priest.
• It is believed that these sites are interconnected and the journey is said to be complete when the devotee visits four of them together. Although the journey is tough, challenging and tiresome given the unfavourable weather conditions, the pilgrims find solace once they complete it. The devotees visit the Char Dham with a sense of hope that God will bring unto their fold, happiness and well-being alongwith prosperity to their families. Every year thousands of devotees undertake this pilgrimage to the Char Dham in Uttarakhand; it has also attracted foreign tourists who aspire to observe the Indian culture closely.
• Text : Ms. Anika Singh.

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Issued by India

Issued on Oct 25, 2019

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Siachen Glacier in honour of these gallant soldiers.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Gulistaan

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 600238

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Siachen Glacier – ‘the highest battle field in the world’ is the land of extreme hostile climatic conditions, treacherous terrain with savage mountains. For the troops serving there, ‘courage and fortitude’ is the norm. In the local Balti language ‘Sia’ stands for ‘Wild Rose’ and ‘Chen’ means ‘place’. Wild Roses are found aplenty near the snout of the glacier and in its lower valleys. It is these roses which give the Glacier its name ‘Siachen – the place of Roses’.
• The Siachen Glacier emanates from Indira Col and runs for approximately 76.4 Km in a South-easterly direction to the source of the Nubra River. It is hemmed-in by the Saltoro Ridgeline to the West and Karakoram to the North and East. There are four important passes on the Saltoro Range namely Sia La, Bilafond La, Chulung La and Gyong La. In the South, this sector overlooks the Shyok River Valley, which lies in an East-west configuration. The area is characterised by high altitude mountainous terrain, which is glaciated and remains snow bound throughout the year. The heights in the area are between 12000 and 21000 feet.
• Prior to 1984, neither India nor Pakistan had any permanent presence in the area. In the 1970s and early 1980s, Pakistan permitted several foreign mountaineering expeditions to scale peaks on the glacier. This was with a design to reinforce its illegal claim over Siachen. In 1983-84, a force was raised by the Pakistan Army for the occupation and capture of the Saltoro Watershed; this was called the ‘Burzil Force’ and the Operation was code-named “Operation Ababeel”. However, the Indian Army launched “Operation MEGHDOOT” and defeated the nefarious designs of Pakistan Army by securing the Siachen Glacier.
• Operation MEGHDOOT was launched under HQ 26 Sector on 13 April, 1984. HQ 102 Infantry Brigade was raised on 01 March, 1985 and additional troops were deployed on the Saltoro Ridge under Operation MEGHDOOT. The formation was placed under command of 28 Infantry Division from 14 March, 1985 to 20 June, 1991 and reverted to 3 Infantry Division on 21 June, 1991. On 15 February, 2009, the Brigade was placed directly under HQ 14 Corps.
• The soldiers who defend the glacier are known as Siachen Warriors. The Siachen Warriors have made innumerable sacrifices displaying selfless devotion to the nation. The Siachen Warriors because of their deeds have been awarded with one Param Vir Chakra, one Ashok Chakra, five Mahavir Chakras, eight Kirti Chakras, thirty five Vir Chakras, thirty Shaurya Chakras, twenty two Yudh Seva Medals, two hundred nineteen Sena Medals and fifty three Mentions in Dispatches.
• Several attempts have been made by Pakistan to dislodge Indian troops from their positions. Indian troops in a testimony to their resilience, determination and bravery have thwarted these attempts even at the cost of precious and valuable lives. More than 1050 brave Indian soldiers have attained martyrdom due to weather and enemy actions in this cold and isolated battlefield.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 23, 2018

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Sant Ganinath.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 3.0 Lakh

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Ganinath

Born on — at Mahnar, Vaishali district, Bihar, India

Died on — at India

About : 

• Mansaram lived with his wife on the banks of river Ganges in Mahanar of Vaishali district. They had no children. Mansaram was of pious thought. He used to worship Lord Shiva with utmost dedication along with his other social activities. Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva blessed him with a child. During a visit to the forest, Mansaram saw a unique supernatural, divine light coming out of the aura of a newborn (child). Mansaram took that child to his house. Everyone in the village was surprised by the influence of the divine power of the child. He started showing miracles from his childhood. After seeing these miracles, the people praised Lord Shiva and christened the boy as “Ganinath”.
• Ganinath was a brilliant student of sharp intellect. In Samvat 1024, Ganinath was admitted to Vikramshila University. Ganinath achieved mastery in eight ‘Siddhis’ and nine ‘Nidhis’ with austerity and yoga. A Yagya was organized on Baba’s return. Baba Ganinath gave four teachings to the society. They are: study the Vedas; follow the truth and religion; abandon attachment, anger, greed, pride and laziness; respect & protect women’s honor in society. Many people started to come to listen to Baba’s messages. After the blessings of Baba, the suffering of people started to melt away.
• Baba Ganinath married Raja Dhang’s daughter Kshema. Like Baba Ganinath, Mother Kshema was very pious. The five children of Baba Ganinath were Raichandra, Shridhar, Govind, Sonmati and Shilmati respectively. Like Baba, five siblings were also proficient in Vedas, arms and Shastras.
• After becoming Maharaj in 1060 Vikram Samvat, Baba Ganinath unified the states won by his ancestor kings, to establish self-government and order in them. With love, coexistence and compassion, he integrated all the states into a single state.
• In order to liberate the society from Yavanas, Baba Ganinath formed an army which was administered by Raichandra and Shridhar. Yavanas were defeated in the fierce battle and influenced by Sant Ganinath, Sardar Lal Khan Baba, leader of Yavanas become his disciple and continued to serve him throughout his life.
• Baba Ganinath and Mata Kshema took the samadhi together in Palvaiya Dham, which is situated in Hajipur District Vaishali as a grand temple.
• Text : Based on the information received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 15, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to release a miniature sheet and a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps on Beautiful India on the selected entries.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure/Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta, based on selected entries received from participant.

Type : Stamps, Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 1500 Paise (2)

Stamps Printed : 0.5 million each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Department of Posts is conducting stamp design competition on various themes from 2015 on the occasion of Republic Day, Independence Day and Children’s Day at national level. Based on the entries received from the participants, stamps are designed and released. Selected participants are given cash awards for first three places. As a novel exercise this time, a nationwide photography competition on theme “Beautiful India” was conducted on the occasion of Independence Day, 2017. Based on the best entries, stamps, First Day Cover and Brochure have been designed. The first three places won in Photography Competition are by Sh. K. Narayanaswamy, Mr. Pulkit Tyagi and Sh. Mihir Singh. Entries received from Sh. K. Narayanaswamy, Mr. Pulkit Tyagi and Sh. Mihir Singh, Ms. Surya R. G. and Smt. Chamah Sharma have been used for designing the Stamp, FDC and Brochure.
• India is a unique country with rich diversity in geography, diversity in languages, diversity in food, diversity in clothes, diversity in festivals and so on which uniquely represents the mosaic of our country and its people. India‘s astounding diversity of religions, languages and cultures is unique and unparalleled. The culture of the vast subcontinent, varied and complex in its rich heritage is among the oldest in the world. Five thousand years of history have nourished the growth of our great civilization. It has been vitalized through cross cultural contacts and characterized by unity in diversity.
• The selected photographs depict the various natural and beautiful aspects of India. The tree laden with yellow flowers at both sides of road and girls going to school is a nice visual. The hills of Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh and photograph of Tajmahal snapped from the garden brings a refreshing angle to a popular subject. The photo of Saryulsar Lake, Kullu and the scenery of a pond circled with hyacinth and filled with innumerable number of small water birds are indeed visual treats.
• Text : Based on the information available on internet.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 15, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a set of four Commemorative Postage Stamps on Caves of Meghalaya.

Credits :
Stamps/Miniature Sheet/FDC/Brochure : Sh. Suresh Kumar
Cancellation Cachet : Ms. Nenu Gupta

Type : Miniature Sheet, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise (4)

Stamps Printed : 0.5 million each

Miniature Sheet Printed : 0.1 million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Starting as a coral island, after the breakup of the super-continent Gondwanaland, Meghalaya is mostly comprised of a relatively stable high structural block, called the Shillong Plateau, with underlying Precambrian granites, gneisses and schists. Along its southern border however, a younger sedimentary sequence was formed which includes limestone. The land experienced a succession of dramatic events where parts of the land were uplifted only to sink before rising above the sea again, thereby lifting the karst areas to considerable height.
• The presence of ideal conditions like high grade limestone, heavy precipitation, elevation and hot and humid climate induced the formation of caves at diverse locations and elevations, making this particular region of the country a delightful paradise of caves. During the last twenty five years of exploration, 1620 caves have been identified or located out of which about 1030 have been explored and mapped, yielding a total cave passage mapped at 460 kilometers with the potential of much more to be discovered. These extensive and intricate subterranean systems of Meghalaya are the longest and deepest in India, with the longest being Krem Liat Prah-Um Im-Labit system at 30,397 metres and the deepest being Synrang Pamiang at -317 metres.
• These caves are also unique as habitat for rare and endemic troglobitic animals not found elsewhere in the world like Hetoropoda fischeri and Schistura papulifera. Department of Posts is issuing stamps on four caves of Meghalaya i.e. Krem Blang, Krem Khung, Krem Syndai and Krem Lymput.
• Krem Blang:
  • (25°25’26.8” N: 092°35’00.2” E), is located in East Jaintia Hills district. It is 272.93 m long. It is a single large relic passage below a short slope. The passage of the cave remains at fairly constant width and height dimensions of seven metres by nine metres for almost the whole length. About 50 metres into the cave a short but easy squeeze through calcite formations have to be negotiated, after which the passage turns and opens up again to a straight 200 metre long gallery. A short distance after this, a boulder slope on the south east side leads up towards the roof. Here a short, free climbable three by one metre wide pitch extends five metres up to a very unstable chamber and an exit to daylight.
  • After another thirty metres back in the main passage Angie’s Chamber is reached. Here the floor is covered with beautiful crystal pools and cave pearls requiring very careful negotiation. Clusters of high stalagmites and columns form bizarre groups of picturesque calcite formations along the walls. Another twenty metres further on a dry inlet with calcite floor joins the main passage and arrives on top of a great flowstone and calcite formation called The Fireplace. A little ahead a short scramble and crawl to the west leads into an impressively decorated chamber named Annie’s Ballroom at the end of which calcite formations block all possible ways on.
• Krem Khung:
  • (25°23’21.9” N: 92°34’48.8” E), is located in East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. The cave lies at the valley level at an altitude of 879 m above the mean sea level. The 1.4m by 1.6m triangular shaped entrance of the cave is through a sinkhole lying below a cliff. Beyond the entrance, the cave floor is covered with dry mud and flood debris for about fifty to sixty metres after which numerous pools with slushy to knee deep water are to be negotiated for onward progress into the main cave system.
  • The cave trends in a north east direction towards the Kopili River and is a major sink of the area taking a lot of water during the monsoon.
  • One of the characteristic features of Krem Khung is its meandering nature which practically obliterates the transitional zone and the dark zone starts within less than 100m of the entrance.
  • Main trend of the cave leads into a large chamber with a diameter of about 50 m and height of about 8 m. This chamber, which has been named as Paradise Chamber by cave explorers is spectacular from the point of view of speleological features. Its base is strewn with fallen boulders and it has development of multi-coloured stalactites, stalagmites and columns; some of the stalactites are of bright yellow colour due to sulphuric bacterial activity.
  • The cave is hosted by limestone of Eocene age as indicated by the presence of age diagnostic fossils of foraminiferal species of Nummulites.
  • At 7,349 metres long it is currently India’s tenth longest cave.
• Krem Syndai:
  • (25°10’53.8” N: 92°08’15.7” E; Length 400 metres). The cave entrance lies in a small depression some four hundred metres from the village of Sundai, in West Jaintia Hills district.
  • The cave is entered by a stooping height arch and once inside the passage immediately opens up into impressive proportions. The way forward lies down a steep calcite slope to the floor of the passage proper. Here the cave passage is some 25 metres or more high by some 30 metres wide, containing some impressive calcite formations in the form of large stalactite and stalagmite bosses, columns and much flowstone. The passage continues in an easterly direction for over 200 metres in similar proportions with the floor rising and falling as large calcited boulder piles and groups of large stalactite formations are met. The passage eventually begins to diminish in size and ends in a calcite blockage.
• Krem Lymput:
  • (25°10’35” N: 091°47’10” E) The cave lies about six kilometres from the village of Nongjri, East Khasi Hills district. The inconspicuous entrance hidden in the jungle covered boulders reveals itself by the cool air it blows. A scramble descent of about 10 metres over masses of rock to a comparatively level space leads to the main trunk passage which runs for one kilometre with inclined walls and ceiling towards west into a passage known as Way to Heaven, which is a very loose and slippery climb. It leads into a series of spacious galleries which are very rich in calcite formations. The main attraction of the cave is the Mughal Room which measures more than 25 metres wide, 25 metres high and 75 metres long. With numerous side passages creating a maze it is 6641 metres long and currently ranks at number 12 in India.
• Text : Based on the information received from State Govt. Meghalaya.

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Issued by India

Issued on May 14, 2014

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Drukpa Lineage of Buddhism.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC : Brahm Prakash
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.62 Million (0.12 Million for proponent)

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Drukpa Lineage is a prominent Buddhist lineage in India. “Druk” in Tibetan means “Dragon” and it also refers to the sound of thunder. Tsangpa Gyare Yeshe Dorje, the founder of the lineage, named it “Drukpa” or “lineage of the Dragons” in 1206. He was known as the First Gyalwang Drukpa. At present, the 12^th Gyalwang Drukpa Jigme Pema Wangchen, is the spiritual head of the lineage.
  
• This lineage is based in the Himalayas. Its followers are in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, the North East states, as well as in Nepal and across the Himalayan region. It has many followers across the globe, including USA, UK, France, Germany, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Spain, Switzerland and the South East Asian countries of Hong Kong, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore and Taiwan.
  
• The stamp depicts Hemis Monastery, which is a part of the Drukpa Lineage, and is one of the main Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. It is situated around 45 kms in the south of Leh on the west banks of the Indus river. This biggest and very richly endowed monastery of Ladakh was built in 1630. The monastery is decorated on all the four sides by the colourful prayer flags, which flutter in the breeze and send the prayers to Lord Buddha. The guardian deities and the Wheel of Life can be seen here and are in good condition. It also has an important library of Tibetan style books and a very impressive and valuable collection of Thangkas, gold statues and Stupas embedded with precious stones. One of the largest Thangkas is also displayed every 11^th year during the festival time.
  
• The annual festival is held for two days in June-July, enlivening the courtyard of the monastery. During the festival time, various rituals and mask dances are performed in this courtyard. The festival of dances, where good triumphs over evil, is a colourful pageant.
  
• Text : Based on the material furnished by the proponent.

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