Commemorative postage stamps have long been a cherished part of postal history, honoring significant events, personalities, institutions, and themes of national and international importance. These stamps not only serve as a medium of postage but also as a symbol of cultural heritage and history. Let’s explore the essential guidelines for issuing commemorative postage stamps, as outlined in the recent PO ORDER NO. Phil/04/2024 by the Department of Posts, India.
Revision Notes on Commemorative Postage Stamps: Key Guidelines and Insights
What are Commemorative Postage Stamps?
Commemorative postage stamps are special stamps issued to celebrate milestones, anniversaries, or notable contributions. They reflect themes of cultural, historical, or social significance, appealing to philatelic collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Guidelines for Issuing Commemorative Stamps
1. Who Can Propose?
Any Indian citizen can propose the issuance of a commemorative postage stamp. Proposals must be submitted in a prescribed format available on the official India Post website.
2. Submission Timeline
Proposals should be sent at least one year in advance for review by the Philatelic Advisory Committee (PAC) or its subcommittee.
3. Annual Limitations
- A maximum of 50 issues (100 stamps) can be released each year.
- Only 20% of the total issues can be dedicated to themes related to personalities.
4. Eligibility Criteria
- Stamps can only be issued for personalities or institutions of national or international significance.
- Living personalities are not eligible for commemorative stamps.
- Themes like wildlife, environment, and transport can be revisited, but stamps on specific subjects are issued only once.
5. Milestone-Based Issuance
- Stamps for buildings or monuments are issued on their 50th, 75th, centenary (100th), 125th, or 150th anniversary.
- The building or site must be a heritage site of national/international importance or recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
6. Mandatory Purchase Requirement
Proponents for stamps related to institutions, events, or personalities must make a mandatory purchase of:
- At least 1 lakh stamps for domestic organizations.
- Stamps and philatelic materials worth ₹25 lakh for global institutions headquartered outside India.
7. Release Schedule
The annual stamp issue program is announced in the last week of December preceding the calendar year of issue. Once finalized, release dates cannot be changed.
8. Design and Prohibited Elements
The design of commemorative stamps is decided by the Department of Posts, ensuring no religious symbols or controversial elements are included.
Significance of Commemorative Stamps
Commemorative stamps celebrate milestones and contributions that resonate with people across the country and the world. They highlight India’s rich heritage, culture, and achievements, making them a valuable collectible and a source of pride.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the guidelines for commemorative postage stamps is essential for anyone interested in philately or proposing new themes. These stamps are not just pieces of paper; they are a testament to our history and achievements.
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