Issued by India

Issued on Sep 30, 2025

Issued for : Department of Posts proudly issues a Postage Stamp to Commemorate the President’s Bodyguard, paying tribute to the generations of soldiers who have served in this prestigious unit.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 202800

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The President’s Body Guard was raised at Benaras, in 1773 with 50 Horses and Sowars, and additionally, 50 Horses & Sowars were contributed by Raja Chait Singh of Benaras, to form the Governor’s Body Guard. The Regiment was later christened as Governor General’s Body Guard (GGBG) in 1784, Viceroy’s Bodyguard (VRBG) in 1857, 44 Divisional Reconnaissance Squadron (GGBG) in 1944, Governor General’s Body Guard (GGBG) in 1946, Governor General’s Body Guard (India) in 1947, and The President’s Body Guard (PBG) wef 1950.
• Being the senior-most Regiment, The PBG has the ‘Right of Line’ over all other Corps/Regiments of the Indian Army, and the Regiment is the Household Cavalry and ‘Personal Troops of The President of India’. The Regiment has dual role, in war – under aegis of the Parachute Formation, subject to approval of the President, and in peace – ceremonial duties at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• The PBG is the oldest Horsed Cavalry, Armoured since 1942 (World War II) and Airborne since 1944 (World War II). In consonance with its mandate, each soldier is a trained ‘Cavalry Horse Rider, Paratrooper and Armoured Warrior. Thereby, making the technical skill-set of these soldiers unique and unparalleled in the Indian Army, and the world. The Regiment has the singular distinction of being the only true Airborne Cavalry Regiment in the world.
• In its exceptional history The PBG has successfully participated in many battles in the pre-independence era and has earned its Battle Honours – namely Java, Ava, Maharajpore, Moodkee, Ferozeshah, Aliwal & Sabraon. Post-independence, the Regiment has been called to arms in all wars, and has been deployed for operations at Chushul (1962) and Gadra Road (1965). In 1971, the Regiment provided protection to the Rashtrapati Bhawan. During Operation VIJAY (1999), Operation PARAKRAM (2000), and Operation SINDOOR (2025) the troops of The PBG continued to serve in operational areas, during extra regimental employment. The personnel of The PBG have been deployed at Super High Altitude Areas in Siachen Glacier since 1993, till date. The Regiment has also contributed troops for the UNPKF in Somalia, Angola, Sierra Leone & Sudan.
• The PBG is the only Regiment which is permitted two ‘Standards’, namely the President’s Standard of Bodyguard, and the Regimental Standard of The PBG. Dr Rajendra Prasad, the first Hon’ble President of India, presented the first ever Standard of Bodyguard, followed by the Regimental Standard of The PBG in 1958. Thereafter, in 1963, Dr S Radhakrishnan, the then Hon’ble President of India, renewed both the Standards.
• On 30 September 2023 the Regiment completed 250 years of glorious service since its raising. On 16 November 2023, during the Sestercentennial Celebrations (250 years), The PBG was presented a new Standard of Bodyguard, and the Regimental Standard of the PBG was renewed by Smt Draupadi Murmu, The Hon’ble President of India, after a period of 60 years.
• The PBG has a tradition of two Silver Trumpets and Trumpet Banners. The Presidential Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner was first awarded in 1957 by Dr Rajendra Prasad, the then Hon’ble President of India. This tradition is maintained by each incumbent President, by presentation of a new Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner, to be carried during the respective Presidency. Smt Draupadi Murmu, The Hon’ble President of India, presented her Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner to The PBG on 27 October 2022. In recognition of 75 years of glorious service since the designation as The PBG in 1950, for the first time ever, the Regimental Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner of The PBG will give way to the Diamond Jubilee Silver Trumpet and Trumpet Banner, by Smt Draupadi Murmu, The Hon’ble President of India, on 30 September 2025.
• Being a horse holding Regiment, The PBG has won numerous medals at national & international level including one gold medal in Asian Games, (Puissance) National record of 195 cm Show Jumping and has the honour of receiving two Arjuna Awards for Polo and Equestrian Sports. In the current presidency, The PBG has won 170 Medals at the Equestrian Federation of India/ National Level Equestrian Events. The Regiment has established itself as the ‘Army Champion’ at the Army Equestrian Championship held in Bengaluru in 2024.
• Since 1947, The PBG has served one Governor General and 15 Presidents of India. The Regiment has also escorted all the Heads of States, Presidents and Kings of nations visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan since 1947. The PBG is a unique military unit, intricately woven into the fabric of the history of our Nation, Rashtrapati Bhavan to include the lives & times of each President, and the Indian Army. The PBG is indeed a unique link to our deep cultural connect with the horses, rich heritage of excellence in horsemanship, and the illustrious traditions of Horsed Cavalry in India.
• Text : Referenced from the text provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jan 23, 2023

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Major Durga Mall who fought against the British for India’s freedom and for the pride of the country.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 302850

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Durga Mall

Born on Jul 1, 1913 at Dehradun, British India

Died on Aug 25, 1944 at Delhi, British India

About : 

• Major Durga Mall was born on 01/07/1913 in Doiwala, Dehradun, Uttar Pradesh, now (Uttarakhand). His father was Shri Ganga Ram Mall and mother Smt. Parvati Devi Mall. Durga Mall was the eldest son among all the siblings. His siblings were Laxman Mall, Padma Mall, Prem Mall and sisters Janaki Devi, Rama Devi and Shyama.
• Since childhood, he was a person of different nature. In 1930, when he was a student of ninth grade, he jumped into the freedom movement. When the Salt Satyagraha movement started, Durga Mall also started participating openly in local public meetings and demonstrations. Consequently, his father left him at his uncle’s house in ‘Bhagsu’ Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
• On 26 January 1931, at the age of 18 years, Durga Mall joined the 2/1 Gorkha Rifles, Dharamshala Cantonment. Due to Durga Mall’s educated and calm nature, he earned everyone’s praises. He soon started the army’s training and acquired distinction. He was also admired as a football player. Apart from this he was also greatly influenced by plays and poems, and himself wrote some poems. He had a strong desire to remove backwardness in the society.
• In September 1939, Germany attacked Poland and Britain and France announced to help Poland. On September 03, 1939, World War II started. The Japanese had also announced the invasion in 1941 from the east. Durga Mall got a call from the battalion and 2/1 Gorkha battalion reached ‘Malaya’ and joined the battle. The Japanese captured Singapore in 1942 by defeating the British. Three major Gorkha Rifles 2/1, 2/2 and 2/9 Gorkha battalion under the British also participated in this war. Many of their soldiers were taken prisoner by the Japanese during the war.
• Azad Hind Fauj was formed in 1942 by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The main task of volunteering the captive soldiers was given to Durga Mall and Asman Singh under the leadership of Poorna Singh Thakur, Rash Behari Bose and the supreme commander of Azad Hind Fauj, Captain General Mohan Singh.
• Azad Hind Fauj honoured Durga Mall with the title of Major due to Durga Mall’s efficiency and delivery of secret information. After reaching Singapore on 13 July 1943, Netaji declared war on Britain and the United States on 25 October 1943. Major Durga Mall was handed over the intelligence department because of his efficiency. He kept collecting secret information and sending it to the headquarters of Azad Hind Fauj in Rangoon. Taking advantage of this information the soldiers of Azad Hind Fauj kept moving forward in the war.
• On March 27, 1944, Durga Mall was taken prisoner by the British soldiers in Mashipur ‘Akhrul’ near Kohima. He was kept in the prison house of the Delhi Red Fort as a prisoner of war and was prosecuted in a military court under section 41 of the Indian Military Act and Act 121 of the Indian Penal Code. He was sentenced to death by the British Raj.
• Before his death sentence, his wife Mrs. Sharda Mall was called for his last darshan because the British government hoped that after meeting his wife he might beg her forgiveness. Durga Mall was sitting on the throne of his room, where he was reciting Gita, and Mrs. Sharda Mall fainted after seeing her husband. He brought his wife back to her senses and said: “I am sacrificing my life for the freedom of Mother India, don’t be sad. I don’t want to see you sad, what if I am not there, crores of sons of the country are with you.”
• On August 15, 1944, Veer Durga Mall was brought from Red Fort Jail to Delhi Central Jail. After 10 days, on August 25, 1944, this brave fighter, Durga Mall embraced the gallows and got his name written forever in the pages of history as ‘Amar Shaheed’.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Aug 20, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Ondiveeran, the unsung hero of India.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 203700

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Sankaran Kovil

Born on — at Nerkattumseval, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

Died on Aug 20, 1771 at Manur, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India

About : 

• Ondiveeran hails from the integrated district of Thirunelveli, heading Pothigai hills ruled by little Kingdom namely Sirulimuthu Pattavarayan and Thiruneelakanda Pagadai. He was the first heroic rebel and commander-in-chief of the India freedom struggle against the British East India Company.
• The legend was born in Sankaran Kovil as eighth family siblings of present Thenkasi district to the father Chellaiyah Pagadai and mother Karuppaiee who commanded the village Nerkattan Sevayal. His childhood name was Muthuveeran.
• After the fall of Madurai Nayakars, due to the maneuver behaviour of the revenue tax collection officers of Arcot Nawab, the family predecessors of Mr. Ondiveeran lost their major part of the wealth in command and also, they lost the power of palayapattu. This act humiliated Ondiveeran. During the year 1775, heir-right war occurred in the Arcot Nawab family. Due to this conflict, the power of revenue collecting rights was acquired by the British East Indian Company again. Ondiveeran rebelled against this act strongly.
• In March 1775, Ondiveeran defeated the army led by Mahfuzkhan, Yusuf Khan, and Colonel Heron in Nerkattan Sevayal. From 1757 to 1759, Ondiveeran led the army vanquished British East Indian Company supports in Gangai Kondan, Alwarkuruchi, Nerkattan Sevayal, Oothumalai, Surandai, and Vasudevanallur. In 1764, Ondiveeran headed battalion conquered Marudhanayagam alias Yusuf Khan in Nerkattan Sevayal.
• In the battle of Vasudevanallur fort siege in 1767 headed by Captain Campbell was defeated by our Legend Battler Ondiveeran. His battalion victory travel extends up to Kalakadu, Srivilliputhur and Thenmalai also. After the bereavement of Puli thevar their sons namely Sivaganapandian, Sithiraputhirathevar and a daughter Gomathi Muthuthalachi were guarded by Ondiveeran. The legendary warrior never rested his sword and resisted against British East Indian Company until his last breath. On 20^th August 1771, near Manur village of Thirunelveli district Ondiveeran was defeated and died during the battle with British East Indian Company.
• After the death of the great legend warrior, Ondiveeran the defenceless descent followers and arunthathiyar leaders like Panchalangkuruchi Pottipagadai, Sivagangai kuyili, Sangagri Pollan, Madhari played a remarkable role in the army war field of first and second Palayakarar, kattabomman, Velunachiyar, Theeran chinnamalai and Maruthu brothers against British East India Company.
• Text : Referenced from the contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jul 20, 2022

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on 44^th FIDE Chess Olympiad.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 302600

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Chess one of the most ancient, intellectual and cognitive games, is a combination of a sport, scientific thinking and an element of the art. Chess the game, which according to Voltaire, ‘reflects most honour on human wit‘ originated in ancient India. A number of similarities exist between modern chess and Indian game called Chaturanga, which dates back to the 5^th Century AD. Its original name in Sanskrit was Chaturangal, means ‘four arms’ or ‘four members’. It was also the Indian word for Army, especially the four components of the army.
• In the 6^th century Chaturanga spread from India to Persia and a little later the Arabs learned the game. Chess entered Europe around 10^th century. Over the years, Chess has grown into others parts of the world. The modern era of Chess, however dates back to about the 17^th century when the pieces on the board gained their present form. By the 20^th century Chess, the game of honour and wit, has spread all over the world.
• After the birth of FIDE (Federation Internationale des Echecs) in1924, Chess attained the status of dynamic sport. The advantages of the internet took the game to new heights. It is the only type of game which allows real competitions to be held in virtual space. FIDE aims at assisting the best chess players to continue to achieve new peaks of excellence and to increase the pool of talent from which new champions would emerge.
• FIDE was formed on 20.7.1924, the closing day of the first unofficial Chess Olympiad at Paris. This day (20^th July), is also recognised as the “International Day of Chess”.
• Constituted as a non-governmental institution, FIDE was recognized by the International Olympic Committee as a Global Sporting Organization in 1999. In 200 countries, under the banner of FIDE, more than 10 million players are registered, who take part in over 5000 different tournaments every year.
• FIDE organised the first official Chess Olympiad in 1927 which took place in London. There were 15 participating nations in the 1^st Chess Olympiad. Another unofficial Chess Olympiad was held in Budapest, Hungary in 1926, while the second official Chess Olympiad was held in Netherlands in 1928. The world Chess Federation (FIDE) has since 1950, conducted the official Chess Olympiads once every two year.
• In the year 2022, World Chess Federation (FIDE) announces a new tradition of chess Olympiad Torch Relay. The First Torch relay commenced from New Delhi, India. Hon’ble Prime Minster of India, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the first ever Torch Relay of chess Olympiad on 19.6.2022. This will be regular feature in coming Olympiads and the Torch Relay will be commenced from India to reach host country of Chess Olympiads.
• 44^th International Chess Olympiad is being organised at Mahabalipuram (Chennai), India from 28^th July 2022 to 10^th August 2022. The event sees the participation of chess players from more than 180 countries, consisting of Super Grand Masters and the world Champions and the highest rated players. The event is one of the largest gathering of chess players and is expected to infuse passion and excitement in the minds of young Indians for this amazing sport.
• Department of Posts recognises the contribution of FIDE in the promotion of Chess, a game which results in better brain function, improved memory and cognitive abilities, strategic thinking and attention improvement.
• Text : Referenced from contents provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Sep 17, 2021

Issued for : Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Rao Jaimal Rathore.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 201600

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

Name : Jaimal Rathore

Born on Sep 17, 1507 at Merta, Rajasthan, India

Died on Feb 22, 1568 at Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India

About : 

• Rao Jaimal was born on September 17^th, 1507 as the eldest son of Rao Veeramdeo, the ruler of Merta. In 1544, after the death of his father, Jaimal ascended to the throne of Merta. He is remembered widely as one of the greatest warriors, generals, military strategists and statesmen to be born in the gifted land of Bharatvarsha. Hailing from the illustrious clan of Rathore rulers in Marwar or Jodhpur, he ruled over the rich realms of Merta and Badnore.
• Rao Jaimal won immortal fame and glory as a soldier and leader due to his strong defence of the fort of Chittor during the Mughal invasion of 1568. When Akbar launched a full-scale invasion of Mewar in 1567, Maharana Udai Singh, the ruler of Mewar, eagerly sought the assistance of Jaimal in bolstering the counter-offensive. When the siege of Chittor assumed dangerous proportions, the Maharana and his family vacated the fort in order to wage a longer struggle. The Maharana, then, appointed Jaimal as the commander-in-chief of the war effort. Thus, in the long war that followed, Jaimal led the Mewari forces against a massive Mughal army, thus, displaying exemplary military skills.
• Despite facing heavy odds, Jaimal continued attacking the invaders with such ferocity that a stalemate situation soon arose. Facing deadly cannon-fire, exploding ramparts, attack of deadly arrows and a rising toll of casualties, he struck back with double force to destroy the enemy ranks. After holding on for more than a year, when the tide started turning against Mewar due to sheer mismatch of numbers and resources, Jaimal decided to fight to the finish. Along with his trusted men who had bled besides him, he opened the gates of the fort and charged into the enemy ranks. He was martyred at the gates of Chittor fort where a cenotaph celebrates his penultimate sacrifice even to this day.
• Jaimal’s lion-hearted courage and invincible fighting spirit, earned him free-flowing praise and admiration not only in the annals of his own land but also in those of his adversaries. Akbar, his generals and the Mughal historians were awe-struck by the bravery with which Rao Jaimal offered a stout and resolute resistance against the invading force. After the catastrophic war of Chittor, a stone statue of Jaimal seated on an elephant was installed at the main-gate of Agra fort as a mark of respect for the great fighter. Indeed, Jaimal was one of the most influential and leading politicians of his age who impacted the turn of events both at the provincial and imperial levels.
• Text : Based on information received from the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Dec 14, 2019

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

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 600440

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

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

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Issued by India

Issued on Feb 11, 2017

Issued for : Department of Posts is proud to release a Commemorative Postage Stamp on The Poona Horse on the occasion of Bicentenary of its raising.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi Colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 403640

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• The Poona Horse Regiment was raised on 15 July 1817 at Sirur near Pune and will be completing its 200 years of raising in July 2017. The Poona Horse which has the distinction of being one of the most decorated regiments in the Indian Army will complete 200 glorious years in 2017.
• The Poona Horse as it exists today is an amalgamation of two of the finest cavalry regiments of the erstwhile Bombay Presidency. The forebears of the Poona Horse were raised as part of an auxiliary force, for service in the territory of the Peshwa. The regiment was not yet fully raised when it was blooded in the battle of CORYGAUM. A small detachment of 300 horsemen was pitted against 28600 horsemen and foot soldiers and successfully resisted the adversary. The Regiment has never looked back since. In 1820, also at Sirur, was raised the 3^rd Bombay Light Cavalry.
• In 1856, the Shah of Persia invaded Afghanistan. The Poona Horse and the 3^rd Bombay Light Cavalry were both part of the expeditionary force. This was the first occasion when the sheer weight, momentum and daring of a cavalry charge broke up the Infantry square. The Poona Horse annihilated the Persian 1^st Khusgai Regiment (who were the Shah’s bodyguards), spiked their guns and captured their Standard which dates back to AD 1066.
• Lt AT Moore & JG Malcolmson were awarded VC during the battle of KOOSHAB. In 1858 Lt H.E. Wood (later Field Marshal) was awarded the 3^rd Victoria Cross and during World War-I, Lt FA De Passe was awarded the 4^th Victoria Cross posthumously.
• On Independence, the Kaimkhani Squadron opted for Pakistan and their place was taken by the Sikh squadron of the 13^th Lancers, who soon became a part and parcel of the Regiment and imbibed the ‘PH Spirit’. The regiment played a stellar role in the Hyderabad Police action immediately after partition in 1948.
• On 8^th September 1965, the Regiment spearheaded the Indian advance into Pakistan. The Regiment cleared the stronghold of Phillora after a gruelling close range battle with enemy Patton Tanks. At the end of the day, 23 enemy tanks lay scattered, mauled and burning on the battle fields – a tribute to the grit, daring and dash of the Regiment. This battle was the fiercest tank battle fought since the Second World War and broke the back of the Pakistani 6 Armoured Division. The Commandant Lt Col AB Tarapore was martyred in action on 16 September 1965. It was a matter of great pride and honour for the regiment that he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the first in Indian Armoured Corps and the only one at that time. By the end of the war the Pakistanis started to refer to the regiment as Fakhr-E-Hind (The Pride of India). The regiment emerged as the only unit to be awarded two battle honours – PHILLORA and BUTUR-DOGRANDI, one Param Vir Chakra, two Vir Chakras, five Sena Medals, twelve Mentioned-in-Despatches and six Commendation Cards.
• In the historic Battle of Basantar, 2^nd Lt Arun Khetarpal showed his grit and determination to destroy enemy armour against all odds. He destroyed tank after tank till his own tank was hit. A grateful nation bestowed the Param Vir Chakra posthumously on him. At the end of that day, 56 enemy tanks lay in ruins. The Poona Horse was awarded the battle honour of BASANTAR. The gallantry awards won were one Param Vir Chakra, two Maha Vir Chakras, three Vir Chakras, three Sena Medals and ten Mentioned-in-Dispatches.
• Text : Based on the material received from proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 29, 2014

Issued for : Department of Posts is happy to release a Postage Stamp to commemorate the occasion of the 150^th anniversary of introduction of Sagol Kangjei to the world.

Credits :
Stamp/FDC : Kamleshwar Singh
Cancellation Cachet : Nenu Gupta

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.6 Million (0.1 Million for the proponent)

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• “Sagol Kangjei“ is derived from the two Manipuri words ‘Sagol’ for horse and ‘Kangjei’ for hooking stick. Lt. Joseph Ford Sherer, who was instrumental in introducing the sport to Europeans, in 1859, as a young lieutenant and adjutant of the 44^th (Sylhet) Regiment of (Bengal) Native (Light Infantry), along with Captain Robert Stewart, Superintendent of Cachar, founded a European Polo Club. Five years later, in the year 1864, Sherer and his team of seven Manipuri men, nicknamed ‘The Brothers‘, took the game to Calcutta where it immediately became very popular. George Frederick Samuel Robinson, 1^st Marquess of Ripon, former Viceroy of India, while speaking in the British Parliament (House of Lords) on 22^nd June 1891, described Manipur as the birth place of Polo.
• The story behind the origin of the game in Manipur is very interesting. King Kangha, who reigned Manipur in 3300 B.C., is believed to have introduced Sagol Kangjei. During a festival known as Ukrong Hongba, he demonstrated how a bamboo root clump could be dribbled with his walking stick, and asked his subjects to play the game on horseback. The game first found mention in the Royal Chronicle of Manipur, Cheitharol Kumbaba, in 33 AD.
• The game is played with seven members in each team, representing seven Manipuri ancestral clans. The players are mounted on Manipuri ponies which are four to five feet high but hardy and active. The ponies are fully decorated, with various guards protecting their eyes, forehead and flanks. The main implements used in the game are Kangjei, the polo stick, a long shaft of bamboo with a head of hard wood set on at an obtuse angle and the ball, Kangdrum which is made of bamboo root. The saddle used in the game is large, light and peaked both in front and the back. In addition to it, there is a pair of leather flaps which project around the legs of the rider and afford some protection from a blow.
• The rules of the game are not obvious. In fact, most observers of the sport declare that rules are conspicuous by their absence. A goal is scored in this game once the ball crosses the back line and the ball is again thrown in from the middle line, not along the ground, but in the air, so as to give occasion for a brilliant stroke of hitting it in mid-air or catching the ball by hand.
• Text : Based on the material furnished by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Nov 16, 2012

Issued for : Department of Posts salutes the courage and valour of the Regiment by issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp on The Scinde Horse.

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

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.3 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : India Security Press, Nashik

About : 

• The Scinde Horse was raised on 8^th August, 1838 at Hyderabad in the Sind province of Pakistan by Capt. W. Ward to protect the British lines of communication to Baluchistan from the Baluchi marauders.
• The Scinde Horse proved its mettle in its first and famous Battle of Meeanee fought on 17^th February, 1843 under the able leadership of Lt. Col. John Jacob, who was later named as the Father of the Regiment. The regiment displayed immense valour and defeated the formidable opponents. As a matter of respect to the gallant enemy, the Regiment adopted Baluchi warrior as its badge. The Regimental Trumpet Call is the old “Advanced Guard” of 1840. The Scinde Horse (14^th PWO Cavalry) was the first regiment of the present Indian Armoured Corps to equip itself with armoured fighting vehicles.
• On 15^th December, 1947, the first Indian Commandant Lieutenant Colonel P. L. Chopra took over command of the Scinde Horse from Lieutenant Colonel K. R. Brooke, the last British officer to command the Regiment. On 9^th November, 1961, The Vice President of India Dr. S. Radhakrishnan presented a new standard to the Regiment. This was a unique honour as the Scinde Horse was the first Cavalry Regiment to receive the President’s Standard in Post Independence India.
• During the 1965 lndo Pak Conflict, the Regiment performed the role of ‘advance guard’ of the 15 Infantry Division in Lahore sector, led the charge and captured Dograi, thus earning the battle honour Dograi and theatre honour Punjab 1965. In 1971 operations, the regiment spearheaded the advance of 36 Infantry Division. The Regiment has time and again lived up to its motto “Man dies but the Regiment Lives” and exhibited exemplary courage and valour.
• The Scinde Horse has also performed extremely well in various missions abroad and received many accolades and medals. On 24^th August, 1994, it was awarded the United Nations Somalia Medal for OP UNOSOM II. The regiment has been awarded 26 battle honours and 19 theatre honours. On 25^th February, 2011, the regiment was awarded the Army Commander South Western Command, Unit Citation. In addition, the regiment has also won various gallantry awards.
• Text : Based on the material provided by the proponent.

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Issued by India

Issued on Jun 20, 2012

Design : The design of the stamps and sheetlet on Shekhawati and Warli Paintings depict the culture and tradition of the states of Rajasthan and Maharashtra and commemorate the rich heritage of Indian Paintings.

Credits :
Stamp / FDC & Sheetlet : Shankha Samant
Cancellation : Alka Sharma

Type : Stamp, Mint condition

Colour : Multi colour

Denomination : 500 & 2000 Paise

Stamps Printed : 0.3 Million Each

Sheetlet : 0.1 Million

Printing Process : Wet Offset

Printer : Security Printing Press, Hyderabad

About : 

• Shekhawati Paintings originate from the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The palaces, forts and many residential and other buildings of the region are adorned with these frescoes dating back to the eighteenth and nineteenth century.
• The Shekhawati frescoes were influenced by the Persian, Jaipur and the Mughal Schools of painting and are remarkable in their perfection. The paintings mostly used colours made from naturally available ingredients. Even after centuries, there is no deterioration in the quality and layers of paint. The pictures beautifying the walls depict historical, hunting, personal and religious scenes painted in various styles. A look at the thematic content, from the earliest ones painted sometime around the year 1750 to the later ones of the British era shows a change and evolution in tastes and preference. The earlier themes are predominantly mythological mingled with illustrations of local legends, hunting scenes, portraits and depictions of everyday life. The later paintings depict a distinct British influence and the impact of technology. The paintings of the later period include motor cars, aeroplanes, ships, trains, balloons, bicycles etc. in myriad themes and a riot of colours and variety.
• Warli Painting is a form of tribal art, done by a tribe called “Warli“. The tribe largely resides in ‘Dahanu‘, in Thane District, Maharashtra. The homes of the tribals are decorated with these painting on festive occasions. Warli Painting is done on a background of red mud. Traditionally, rice paste mixed in milk or water is used for these paintings. The images of the gods and goddesses are created in white since this colour is considered to be a symbol of purity. Other figures are drawn in the red and yellow since these are easily available in the form of turmeric and red mud etc. The paintings are executed with a straw. Every symbol of Warli art has its own meaning and language. Men and women in spiral forms and concentric circular designs in Warli Paintings symbolize the circle of life.
• Text : Rashi Sharma (Based on the material available on the internet).

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