News : January 2016

Special Cover on Golden Jubilee of Lions Club Lucknow Cantonment – 30th January 2016.

Lions Clubs International (LCI) is a non-political service organization founded by Melvin Jones in 1917. As of April 2015, it had over 46,000 local clubs and more than 1.4 million members in over 200 countries around the world. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, United States, the organization aims to meet the needs of communities on a local and global scale.

Lions Club Lucknow Cantonment celebrated its Golden Jubilee on 30th January 2016. On the occasion a Special Cover was released by International 2nd Vice President Lion Naresh Agarwal & Shri V. K. Daksh Director Postal Services, (HQ), UP Postal Circle, Lucknow on 30th January 2016 (Special Cover approval no. UP/01/2016).

The price of Special Cover is Rs. 30 + packing & postage extra. Please contact Mr. Rakesh Singhal, Lucknow (M) +919415158243 for requirement of Special Covers.

Courtesy: Rakesh Singhal, Lucknow

Special Cover and Picture Postcards on Martyr’s Day – 30th January 2016.

Martyrs day in India is celebrated to pay homage to the victims who fought for the freedom, welfare and progress of the India and sacrificed their lives. It is celebrated every year all over the country on 30th of January. India is the country among other 15 countries of the world where Martyrs Day is celebrated every year to pay homage to the freedom fighters.

To commemorate Martyr’s Day, a Special Cover with brochure and a set of three Picture Postcards were released by Lucknow Philatelic Society at Philatelic Bureau, Lucknow G.P.O., Lucknow on 30th January 2016 (Special Cover approval no. UP/02/2016).

Price of the Special Cover with brouchure on Rs.5/- Charkha Stamp is Rs. 30/- each and a set of three picture postcards is Rs. 60/- per set with cancellation. Uncancelled picture postcards are priced at Rs. 40/-.

Courtesy: Ashwani Kumar Dubey, Gorakhpur | Rahul Ganguli, Allahabad

Special Cover on Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History – 28th January 2016.

The Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) is a national centre for information, education and research in ornithology and natural history in India. In appreciation of his lifelong services to India's bird life and conservation of natural resources the Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) was named after Dr. Sálim Ali. The Sálim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History was formally inaugurated on 5th June 1990 and registered as a society under the Society Registration Act 1860. SACON was dedicated to the nation on February 11, 2000. The centre is situated in the sylvan surroundings of Anaikatty Hills, 24 km northwest of Coimbatore city in Tamil Nadu. SACON is associated with the Ministry of Environment and Forests and it’s mission is "To help conserve India’s biodiversity and its sustainable use through research, education and peoples’ participation, with birds at the centre stage".

On the occasion of Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History a Special Cover was released by Ms. Manju Pillai, Post Master General, Western Region (Tamil Nadu) and it was received by Honorable Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Changes Shri Prakash Javadekar on 28th January 2016 at Coimbatore (Special Cover Approval No.TN/03/2016).

Courtesy: Suresh Rao, Bengaluru

Set of Picture Postcards on “Mammals of India” released by North Karnataka Postal Circle

A set of picture postcards have been released by North Karnataka Postal Circle depicting “Mammals of India” on the occasion of 67th Republic day at Dharwad. This is 14th Set of picture postcards on issued by North Karnataka Postal Circle. The set contains 48 cards and comes in an attractive box and is priced Rs. 150/- per set. For more information contact nkrpostcrossing@gmail.com

India Post 2016 Wall Calendar.

India Post has launched wall calendar for the year 2016 featuring Baramasa series of paintings on twelve pages of calendar. A set of four commemorative stamps featuring Ritu Rang (Vasant / spring), Greeshm / summer, Varsha / monsoon) and Hemant /winter) issued in 1996 has been reproduced on all pages of calendar. Each stamp highlights the essence of the season it depicts.

The India Post 2016 Calendar is available for sale at the price of Rs 250 in all philatelic bureaus and it is also available at ePost Office portal of India Post.

New addition to 11th Definitive Series on ‘Makers of India’.

Department of Posts has issued one more definitive stamp in new 11th Definitive Series on ‘Makers of India’ in denomination of 25 paise depicting Mahatma Gandhi.

Image Courtesy: Sagi Srinivas Raju, Hyderabad

Commemorative Stamp on Vibrant India - 25th January 2016.

India is a mix of many vibrant cultures and colours. One can clearly distinguish the North from the South and the East from the West simply based on ethnic differences. With so many varied languages, festivals, religions and traditions, it makes us all the more exotic and incredible to the rest of the world! We define 'unity in diversity' like no other country does and are absolutely flamboyant in our description. Our lavish cultures speak for themselves and make us as colourful as ever. The Department of Posts had organized national level stamp design competition on the theme of ‘Vibrant India’ for the stamp to be released on the occasion of Republic Day 2016.

On the occasion of Republic Day of India a Miniature Sheet on ‘Vibrant India’ was released on 25th January 2016 in the denomination of Rs. 25. A limited edition presentation pack on Vibrant India on the occasion of Republic Day 2016 priced at 300/- is available for sale at ePost Office Portal of India Post.

Image Courtesy: stampsofindia.com

Commemorative Stamp on Income Tax Appellate Tribunal – 24th January 2016.

Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) is a quasi judicial institution set up on 25th January, 1941 by virtue of section 5A of the Income Tax Act, 1922 and specializes in dealing with appeals under the Direct Taxes Acts. The orders passed by the ITAT are final; an appeal lies to the High Court only if a substantial question of law arises for determination. Starting in 1941 with six Members constituting three Benches - one each at Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai, the numbers of Benches have progressively increased and presently ITAT has 63 Benches at 27 different stations covering almost all the cities having a seat of the High Court. Since its establishment, ITAT is functioning more or less on similar lines except for necessary consequential changes introduced on account of its expansion and extension of its jurisdiction. There have been no fundamental changes either in the constitution or the functioning of the Tribunal in the Income Tax Act, 1961.

Income Tax Appellate Tribunal is celebrating its platinum jubilee this year. The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the opening ceremony of the Two Day Platinum Jubilee Celebrations of Income Tax Appellate Tribunal at Convention Hall, Ashok, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi on 24th January, 2016. On the occasion President Shri Pranab Mukherjee released a Commemorative Stamp on Income Tax Appellate Tribunal in presence of The Union Minister for Law & Justice, Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda, the Chief Justice of India, Shri Justice T. S. Thakur and Secretary (Posts) & Chairman PS Board Ms. Kavery Banerjee.

Image Courtesy: PIB | stampsofindia.com

Special Cover on Seth G S Medical College and K E M Hospital – 22nd January 2016.

King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital and Seth G.S. Medical College located Parel is amongst the foremost teaching and medical care providing institutions in India. It was founded in 1926 in Mumbai. The Seth G.S. Medical College is affiliated to the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS), Nashik and is consistently ranked amongst the top twenty five medical colleges in India by India Today. The medical school (Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College) provides training to about 2000 students in undergraduate, postgraduate and super-speciality medical courses. The institute also provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in physical therapy and occupational therapy apart from Master's and PhD courses in various allied specialities. A nursing school is also maintained by the institution.

On the occasion of 90 Glorious years of Selfless & Responsible Patient Care a Special Cover was released on Seth G S Medical College and K E M Hospital on 22nd January 2016 at Mumbai (Special Cover approval no. MH/05/2016).

Mahapex-2016, Maharashtra State Level Philatelic Exhibition - 16th to 18th January 2016.

Mahapex-2016, 12th Maharashtra State Level Philatelic Exhibition inaugurated at Postal Stores Depot, Upnagar, Nasik City - 422 006 on 16th January 2016. Shri Ashok Murtadak, Mayor of Nashik City, Smt. Devyani Farande MLA of Nashik Central, Shri A. K. Dash. Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, Shri Dhirubhai Mehta senior philatelist and President of Philatelic Society of India, Shri Pranav Kumar, Postmaster General, Aurangabad Region and Shri Sankha Samanta freelance artist and well known stamps designer graced the dais at inaugural function. Stamp design competition and elocution competition were organized for the school children on the subject of stamp collecting.

At Mahapex-2016 for the first time India Security Press exhibited few original stamp designs along with proofs. The original designs were of stamps issued during 1960's, 70's etc. Well known artist and stamp designer Shri Sankha Samantha shared his experience on stamp designing at the exhibition and his stamp designs were also showcased at Mahapex-2016.

Special Cover on Pandav Leni – 16th January 2016

Pandu Leni (also known as Trirashmi Caves and other variations) are a group of 24 caves carved between the 3rd century BC and the 2nd century AD, representing the Hinayana Buddhist caves. These caves have nothing to do with the Pandavas of Mahabharata. Leni is Marathi word for caves. The location of the caves is a holy Buddhist site and is located about 8 km south of Nashik in Maharashtra State.

The most important caves in this group are No. 18 and 20. Except cave No. 18 the remaining caves are Viharas or monasteries excavated in CIRCA 2nd Century A.D. Cave No. 3 was excavated at the orders of the Mother of the famous Satvahana King Gautamiputra Satkarni, who held sway over a large part of the Deccan in the 2nd Century A.D. In cave No. 10 there is an inscription regarding the donations made by Ushadatta, the son - in - law of Kshatrapa Nahapana (CIRCA 120 A.D.). Similarly cave No. 17 contains an inscription stating that a "Yavana" (the Greek) named Indragnidatta and his son Dharmarakshit excavated this vihara with a shrine and the cisterns. Cave No. 18 is the oldest and also the most important, being the chaitya - the hall of congregation. According to the inscription engraved on the 5th and 6th pillars, this chaitya was excavated by Bhattapalika, wife of the Royal Officer Aghetyana and daughter of the Royal Officer Arahataya. Anotherinscription under the horse shoe arch of the entrance records the gift of a village by the inhabitants of the Nashik for the upkeep of the chaitya. Cave No. 20, first taken by an Ascetic name Bhopaki was completed by Vasu, the wife of Mahasenapati Bhavagopa in the 7th year of the Satvahan King Gautamiputra Yajnashri Satkarni (CIRCA 166-198 A.D.)

Special Cover on Pandav Leni was released at the inaugural function of Mahapex-2016 on 16th January 2016 (Special Cover Approval No. MH/06/2016).

Special Cover on Late Smt. Kusumben Mehta – 16th January 2016.

Fortnightly meeting of Philatelic Society of India was organized at the venue in the afternoon. During the meeting a Special Cover on senior philatelist Late Smt. Kusumben Mehta was released (Special Cover Approval No. MH/07/2016). Late Kusumben Mehta was leading philatelist from India and wife of Senior Philatelist Shri Dhirubhai Mehta. She passed away on 6th October 2015 at Mumbai. Smt. Kusumben Mehta was a keen Philatelist and she was a life member of PCI, PSI and so many other Philatelic & Social organisations. She was the first woman philatelist to become a member of the Philatelic Advisory Committee.

Day 2

Special Cover on Kalaram Mandir – 17th January 2016.

The Kalaram Temple is an old Hindu shrine dedicated to Rama in the Panchavati area of Nashik city. The temple derives its name from the statue of Lord Rama that is black. The literal translation of kalaram means black Rama. The sanctum sanctorum also houses the statues of goddess Sita and God Lakshmana. Late Sardar Rangrao Odhekar, under the consultation with Late Sawaee Madhavrao Peshwa started the construction of the present temple in the year 1780. The Temple is unique example of the architect of the time. The main temple was completed by the year 1792 and thereafter the sabhamandapa, the stilt round the temple and the fencing by the year 1799. It is said that the expert masons brought the blocks of the black best quality stone from Ramshej Hills near Nashik, tested each block in boiling milk before using it in the work of construction. The main structure of the temple stands in the middle of a walled enclosure with 96 pillars and entrance on the east through an arched portal. The ‘Kalash’ is made of 32 tons of gold. Panchvati is the same place from where Ravana kidnapped Maa Sita and not far from here is the famous Anjaneri village where Lord Hanuman was born to Maa Anjana and Lord Kesari.

A Special Cover on famous Kalaram Mandir was released on 17th January 2016 during Mahapex – 2016 (Special Cover Approval No. MH/08/2016).

Special Cover on City of Grapes – Nashik – 17th January 2016.

Nashik is in northern Maharashtra at 700 m from the mean sea level. The river Godavari originates 24 km from Brahmagiri Mountain, Tryambakeshwar, Nashik and flows along the northern boundary of the city through the old residential settlement. The soil of Nashik is primarily black which is favorable for agriculture. Nashik is famous for grapes, onions, and tomatoes. Nashik is famous for its table grapes and known as the Wine Capital of India. In early 1925, the table grape revolution was started in Ojhar, a small town near Nashik, by Mr. Raosaheb Jairam Krishna Gaikwad. Today, table grapes are exported to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

A Special Cover on City of Grapes – Nashik was released on 17th January 2016 during Mahapex – 2016 (Special Cover Approval No.MH/09/2016).

Day 3

Special Cover on Nashik Dhol – 18th January 2016.

Nashik has a rich and long cultural history. It features high reverence for religious, agricultural and industrial worth. Even not counting these, Nasik has contributed greatly to the art and entertainment in India. Nashik Dhol is a special form of rhythmic music played with the big drums or locally known as dhols. It is a musical instrument belonging to the Membranophone Category. It is popular all over Maharashtra for creating a rhythmic and exhilarating atmosphere and has become the cultural identity of Maharashtra's celebrations. All the public celebrations including weddings, Navratri, Ganpati Visarjan, rallies, college gatherings tend to be incomplete without Nashik Dhol. Nashik Dhol encompasses several other musical instruments like Tashas, Zanzars, electrical Bul-Bul or the recent version of it - electronic piano. Sometimes, an echo of Lazim makes Nasik Dhol an even more stunning magnum opus.

A Special Cover on Nashik Dhol was released after a great performance of Nashik Dhol band on 18th January 2016 at Mahapex 2016 (Special Cover Approval No. MH/10/2016).

Special Cover on Dr. Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi – 18th January 2016.

Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi (b. 31 March 1865 – d. 26 February 1887) was one of the first South Asian female physicians and the first Indian female physician, to be trained in the tradition of Western medicine. She was India’s first lady to qualify as a doctor from the USA in 1886. She graduated with an M.D. on 11th March, 1886. She is also believed to be the first Hindu woman to set foot on American soil. Along with Kadambini Ganguly, she was one of the first two graduates from India. She was born as Yamuna, in Kalyan of the Thane district to an orthodox and wealthy Marathi Brahmin family. After marriage, her husband Gopalrao renamed her Anandi. Gopalrao worked as a postal clerk in Kalyan. She was appointed as 'the physician-in-charge' of the female ward of the local Albert Edward Hospital, Kolhapur. But it was unfortunate that Anadibai could not fulfill her dreams of providing her services to the women in India. She died at the early age of 22 on 26th February, 1887.

A Special Cover on Dr. Anandibai Gopalrao Joshi was released on 18th January 2016 at Nashik during Mahapex-2016 (Special Cover Approval No. MH/11/2016).

Mahapex-2016 concluded on 18th January 2016. Exhibits in 400 frames were showcased in different classes. Exhibition was well attended by philatelist and local visitors. Shri Dhananjay S. Desai and Shri P. K. Bisoi (Director, RAKNPA) served as Jury members. Shri Suketu S. Jhaveri and Ms. Simran Kaur (SSPO, Mumbai City East Division) were Apprentice Jury at the Exhibition. 15 Gold, 20 Silver and 31 Bronze medals were awarded to the winners of competitive class of exhibition.

Image Courtesy: Anand Kakad, Nashik | Kapil Gogri, Mumbai | Ajay Agrawal, Akola

Special Cover on Historical Gurudwara Sri Paonta Sahib - 16th January 2016.

The Gurudwara in the city of Paonta Sahib, Dist. Srmour, Himachal Pradesh is situated on the bank of River Yamuna. This is the only city where Guru ji spent maximum period of his auspicious life in one stretch. Historical Gurudwara Sri Paonta Sahib was built in memory of Guru Gobind Singh ji, the tenth guru of sikhs. It was here, the Dasam Granth was written by Guru Gobind Singh ji. It is because of this fact; the Gurudwara enjoys a very high historic and religious importance among the followers of the Sikh religion across the world over. Shri Talab Asthan and Shri Dastar Asthan are the vital places inside the Sikh shrine. A legendary temple is also attached to the Gurudwara. The temple is devoted to Goddess Yamuna.

On the occasion of Shri Guru Gobind Singh ji’s Prakash Utsav a Special Cover was released on historical Gurudwara Sri Paonta Sahib by Major General A.K. Shori, Chief Postmaster General, Himachal Pradesh Circle on 16th January 2016 at Paonta Sahib (Special Cover approval no. HP/08/2015).

Cover Courtesy: Abhai Mishra, Dehradun

Special Cover on the Karimabad Bharat Scout Group Centennial – 15th January 2016.

The Karimabad Bharat Scouts Group (KBS) was established in the year 1915, as a Kandi Mohalla Scouts Group, to promote and protect the interest of community and to enhance service to state and nation. The founder member of KBS, Mr. Rutabali was a visionary who initiated the commencement of the scouts group, keeping in mind that a youngster should be a self sufficient with an ability to take up any challenges of this world without giving up and handle it with a smiling face. Since its existence the Karimabad Bharat Scouts Group had played an active role in All India Ismaili’s Scouts & Guides activities arena. It had also build a strategic alliances and established networking with local and all India scouts & guides group and affiliates forging ties to develop the interest of scouting activities.

Karimabad Bharat Scouts Group is celebrating 100 years of scouting. In commemoration of 100 years of Karimabad Bharat Scouts Group a Special Cover was released by His Excellency Governor of Maharashtra Shri Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao and Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle Shri A. K. Dash on 15th January 2016 at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai (Special Cover approval no. MH/01/2016).

Special Cover on Late Shri Dinanath Dalal – 15th January 2016.

Dinanath Dalal (b. 30th May 1916 – d. 15th January 1971), the doyen of popular paintings, lives on in the memory of his admirers hundred years on. He was a painter and illustrator. He completed his art education from Mumbai and cleared his G.D. Art examination in 1937. His works depicted various aspects of literature such as mythology, history, social issues, human emotions and politics. Shri Dalal also painted the portraits of a number of famous personalities including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Vinoba Bhave. To mark the birth centenary year of the Goan artist late Shri Deenanath Dalal the Department of Art and Culture organised an exhibition of his painting at Art Gallery & Multipurpose Hall, Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji. The exhibition portrayed Late Dalal’s different styles of paintings, like cover page, mythology, history, social issues, human emotions and political satire.

On the occasion Chief Minister of Goa Shri Laxmikant Parsekar released a Special Cover on the Goan artist late Shri Deenanath Dalal on 15th January 2016 at the function held at Sanskruti Bhavan, Patto, Panaji. (Special Cover Approval No. MH/04/2016).

Courtesy: Kaushik Dessai, Goa | Central Library, Goa

Special Cover on 6th Annual Conference of Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO) - 9th January 2016.

Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO) was constituted in 2011 to provide common professional platform to Physicians of Indian Origin working in Indian and other countries of the world. The idea of GAPIO was originally conceived in January 2009 at Chennai. It is estimated that there are 1.2 million physicians of Indian Origin working in India and other countries of the world. There are 125,500 Physicians of Indian Origin working in the English speaking Western world (USA, UK, Australia and Canada combined), with the major constituent being from USA and UK.

Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO) organised its 6th Annual Conference on 9th and 10th January 2016 at Hotel Sheraton, Bangalore which attracted around 500 medical experts. “The event ensured to provide affordable good quality healthcare, to contribute to local and regional community development, and thereby reduce health inequalities globally. Two day conference covered Clinical sessions such as Cardiology, Neurosurgery, Gastroenterology, Oncology, Diabetes, Nephrology and Transplantation as well as non-clinical sessions such as “Infection/Quality and Safety and “GAPIO – Making An Impact”.

To commemorate 6th Annual Conference of Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO) a Special Cover was released on 9th January 2016 at Bengaluru (Special Cover approval no. KTK/03/2016).

Courtesy: Dr. A. Sumitra, Bengaluru

Kerapex 2016, 13th Kerala State Level Philatelic Exhibition – 7th – 9th January 2016.

Kerapex-2016 started with a brilliant pre-inaugural procession highlighted by Halkara (Postal Runner), India Post female Staff members in traditional sarees and a traditional Kerala drum band which concluded at the venue.

Kerapex 2016, 13th Kerala State Level Philatelic Exhibition was inaugurated by jointly by Hon’ble Minister for Co-operation, Khadi and Village Industries, Govt. of Kerala Shri C. N. Balakrishnan, MLA of Thrissur Shri Therambil Ramakrishnan, Postmaster General, Central Region, Kerala Smt. Sumathi Ravichandran, Director Postal Services, Central Region, Kerala Shri S. Ramamurthy, Dr. Silsilamma George, Dean College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur, Dr. P. P. Balan, Director KILA and other dignitaries on the dais at Sree Sankara Hall, M. G. Road, Thrissur on 7th January 2016. A welcome song in Malayalam describing fascinating world of stamps, philatelists, India Post and venue of exhibition was sung by a group of singers.

Kerapex - 2016 Welcome Song lyrics in English

Exhibits were showcased in 352 frames in the competitive class out of which 302 frames were in Senior Class, 38 frames in Youth Class and 12 frames in School Collections. 41 frames were exhibited in Invitee Class. Exhibition was well attended by philatelists from Kerala and other places. A large number of students, local citizens, and stamp lovers visited the exhibition.

On the inaugural day three special covers were jointly released by Postmaster General, Central Region, Kerala Circle Smt. Sumathi Ravichandran and other dignitaries on the dais.

Special Cover on Thrissur District Co-Operative Bank – 7th January 2016. (Approval no. KL/01/2016).

The Thrissur District Cooperative Bank Ltd., was registered as the Cochin Central Cooperative Bank Ltd. on 29th June 1918 and started functioning as the apex bank of the erstwhile Cochin state. In 1961 the area of operation of the bank was restricted to Thrissur revenue district and the bank was renamed as Thrissur District Cooperative Bank Limited. The bank functions with its registered office at Thrissur and extends its operation to the whole revenue district through 58 branches. The Thrissur District Cooperative Bank Ltd. is the first District Bank in India Providing Rupay e-commerce facility.

Special Cover on Diamond Jubilee Celebration of College of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Thrissur – 7th January 2016. (Approval no. KL/02/2016).

College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy was established in 1955 and is one of the constituent colleges of the newly established Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. It is first Veterinary College of state of Travancore - Cochin. The College has made extensive contribution for the development of animal husbandry sector of the state. In addition to development of human resources for serving the livestock farmers of the state, the college is also instrumental in various research, extension, consultancy and clinical services besides acting as a source of high quality germplasm and animal products to the farmers and general public respectively.

Special Cover on Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA) – 7th January 2016. (Approval no. KL/03/2016).

Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA) is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Local Self Government, Government of Kerala. It is the nodal agency for training, research and consultancy for the Local Self-Government Institutions. Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA) has been engaged in the capacity building activities for local governments in Kerala since its establishment in 1990. The best of its kind in the third world, KILA aims to address the emerging issues of decentralised governance at the grass roots through a plethora of divergent activities like training, research, consultancy, policy advice, publications and information services. KILA thus becomes a harbinger of the emerging dawn of vibrant local democracy.

Day: 2

Three Special Covers were released on second day of the exhibition. Sp. Cover release function was attended by Postmaster General, Northern Region, Kerala Circle Ms. Anjali Anand, Mayor of Thrissur City Smt. Ajitha Jayarajan, Director Postal Service, Central Region, Kerala Circle Shri S. Ramamurthy, Secretary, Arattupuzha Pooram Shri M. Sivadasan, Rector, St. Josephs Pontifical Seminary, Aluva Rev. Fr. Jacob Prasad, President, Cheraman Juma Masjid, Dr. P. A. Muhammed Syed and other guests. Special Covers were released by Postmaster General, Northern Region, Kerala Circle Ms. Anjali Anand.

Special Cover on Arattupuzha Pooram – 8th January 2016. (Approval No. KL-04/2016)

The Arattupuzha Temple is one of the ancient Hindu temples situated at Arattupuzha in Thrissur district of Kerala in India, administered by Cochin Devaswom Board. It is home to the annual Arattupuzha Pooram that stages the grand spectacle of scores of caparisoned elephants lined up in a row to the accompaniment of ethnic percussion concerts. Arattupuzha Pooram is also termed as the mother of all pooram festivals in Kerala, due to its sheer magnitude and grandeur. The Pooram is known as Devamela as it is a conglomeration of gods, given its massive attendance of deities from neighbourhood shrines. A total of 23 deities of various temples from different parts of Thrissur District attend the Pooram and is considered as the oldest temple festival in Indian subcontinent.

Special Cover on Muziris Heritage Project – Cheraman Juma Masjid – 8th January 2016. (Approval No. KL-05/2016)

The significance of Cheraman Juma Majsid in the Muziris Heritage Project lies in the fact that it is the first mosque in India. It stands in the district of Thrissur in Kerala, on the Parur-Kodungalloor road. It was built in 629 AD by Malik Ibn Dinar. Kunjikuttan Thampuran who is known as Kerala Vyasa has expressed the view that this was an ancient Buddhavihar that was gifted to the Muslims for the construction of a mosque. The oral tradition is that Cheraman Perumal, the Chera king, went to Arabia where he met the Prophet and embraced Islam. From there he had sent letters with Malik Ibn Dinar to his relatives in Kerala, asking them to be courteous to the latter. The masjid is believed to have been renovated in the 11th century and also 300 years ago. The front portion was expanded in 1974 and further expanded in 1984. The older part of the mosque including the Sanctum Sanctorum is left untouched and is still preserved. Its grandeur is still kept alive by the wooden steps and ceiling. People of all religions come to this mosque and many non-Muslims conduct vidhyarambham (initiation ceremony to the world of letters) of their children here.

Special Cover on St. Joseph Pontifical Seminary, Carmelgiri, Alwaye – 8th January 2016. (Approval No. KL-06/2016)

St. Joseph Pontifical Seminary, Carmelgiri, Alwaye belonging to the Latin Catholic Church is an heir to the history of over three centuries of priestly formations in Kerala. Its beginning was in 1682 at Verapoly. Students from different parts of India are trained here to become committed and enlightened priests, Disciples of Christ, to build up the Kingdom of God, a just, humane, secular and free society. Besides the bachelor's courses in Philosophy and Theology, post graduation and doctoral degrees are also offered here.

Day: 3

Two Special Covers were released on the third day of exhibition. Chief Postmaster General, Kerala Circle Shri A. N. Nanda, Postmaster General, Central Region, Kerala Circle Smt. Sumathi Ravichandran, Postmaster General, Northern Region, Kerala Circle Ms. Anjali Anand, Director Postal Services (HQ), Kerala Circle Shri A. Thomas Lourduraj, Director of Accounts (Postal), Thiruvananthapuram Smt. Sapna Pramod, Chief Co-ordinator, LAMPS Dr. T. N. Jagadeesh Kumar, Kerala State General Secretary, Elephant Owner’s Federation, Kerala Shri P. Sasikumar and other guests attended the Special Cover release function.

Special Cover on Save Elephant – Save Culture – 9th January 2016 (Approval No. KL-07/2016)

Elephants have been working animals since at least the Indus Valley Civilizationand continue to be used in modern times. Elephants are intelligent creatures with complex levels of consciousness. Once common throughout Africa and Asia, elephant numbers were severely depleted during the 20th century, largely due to the massive ivory trade. While some populations are now stable and growing, poaching, conflict and habitat destruction continue to threaten the species. The World Wildlife Fund reports more than 20,000 elephants are killed around the world every year for their ivory tusks, with the majority in Central Africa. There is a need to plan actions and activities to save the elephants and to spread awareness about the critical threats they are facing, and to support positive solutions that will help ensure their survival. Save elephants, and then you save the forest - and then you save yourself.

Special Cover on Laloor Model Solid Waste Management Project (LAMPS) – 9th January 2016 (Approval No. KL-08/2016)

Due to Urbanization and rapid population growth Municipal Solid Waste Management has been acute in India. Laloor Model Solid Waste Management Project (LAMPS) is a joint venture of Kerala Agricultural University and Thrissur Municipal Corporation for solid waste management. The project was launched in 2010. Under the project, primary waste collection centres (PWCC) are set up in all divisions under the city Corporation. The segregated waste from the PWCC is taken to Local Waste Processing Centre (LWPC) for treatment and for 10 LWPCs; there is a Regional Waste Processing centre (RWPC).

Shri Prashant Pandya and Shri Dinesh Chandra Sharma served as the jury members and Shri A. Thomas Lourduraj, Director Postal Services (HQ), Kerala Circle was an Apprentice Jury at the exhibition. Critique session was organized after the results were declared on 9th January which was conducted by Shri Prashant Pandya and Shri Dinesh Chandra Sharma, Jury Members, which was attended by good number of exhibitors.

Valedictory function was held in the evening on 9th January 2016 in presence of Postmaster General Shri A. N. Nanda, Member of Parliament, Thrissur Shri C. N. Jayadevan, Postmaster General, Central Region, Kerala Circle Smt. Sumathi Ravichandran, Postmaster General, Northern Region, Kerala Circle Ms. Anjali Anand, Director Postal Services (HQ), Kerala Circle Shri A. Thomas Lourduraj, Director of Accounts (Postal), Thiruvananthapuram Smt. Sapna Pramod, Shri Prashant H. Pandya, Jury Member, Shri Dinesh Chandra Sharma, Jury Member and other guests. 11 Gold, 28 Silver, 30 Bronze medals and 44 Diplomas were awarded to the winners of competitive class of exhibition. Prizes of other competitions were also distributed to the winners. Dealers’ booths and philatelic counters were made available at the venue. Facility for My Stamp and My Selfie Stamps were made available at India Post counter. On all three days cultural events were organized in the evening at the venue.

Courtesy: Prashant Pandya, Vadodara | Sreejesh Krishnan, Thiruvananthapuram

Special Cover on Golden Jubilee of Sujatha High School – 9th January 2016.

Sujatha High School, Hyderabad was founded by Late Mr. P.B. Jai Singh and Mrs. Sita Jai Singh in 1966. After having worked as Headmistress in two different Schools, she had her own vision for a school that would be both a seat of learning and centre for character building. Using their ideals as a blueprint, Mr. and Mrs. Jai Singh set forth in a humble way with 40 children and 5 teachers. Over the years this Institution has grown and spread its wings. We are now known not only for quality in school education but also for Junior, Degree & PG College for women. Sujatha High School is centrally located at Chapel Road (Abids), Hyderabad.

To commemorate Golden Jubilee of Sujatha High School a Special Cover was released in presence of Ms. A. Shilpa Rao, Sr. Superintendent of Post Offices, Secunderabad Division at Hyderabad on 9th January 2016 (Special Cover approval no AP/01/2016).

Courtesy: Sagi Srinivas Raju, Hyderabad

Special Cover on Rajmata Jijau – 8th January 2016.

Jijabai Shahaji Bhosale (b. 12th January 1598 – d. 17th June, 1674), sometimes referred to as Rajmata Jijabai or Rajmata Jijau, was the mother of Shivaji, founder of the Maratha Empire. Jijabai was a daughter of Lakhojirao Jadhavar in present-day Sindkhed Raja Buldhana district of Maharashtra. As per the customs of that age, she was wed at an early age to Shahaji Raje Bhonsle, a nobleman and military commander under the Adil Shahi sultans of Bijapur Sultanate in present-day Karnataka. She was his first wife. Jijabai gave birth to eight children, six daughters and two sons. All the daughters died in infancy and only the sons Sambhaji and Shivaji grew to adulthood. Jijabai was a very pious and intelligent woman with great vision for independent kingdom. She inspired Shivaji by telling stories from Ramayana, Mahabharata and Balaraja. Today especially in Maharashtra she is regarded as an ideal mother.

A Special Cover was released in commemoration of Mother of Freedom Rajmata Jijau on 8th January 2016 at Pune (Special Cover approval no. MH/03/2016).

Courtesy: Sreejesh Krishnan, Thiruvananthapuram

Special Cover on Asha Kiran - A Ray of Hope - 7th January, 2016.

‘Asha Kiran - A ray of hope' is the Child Development Program of Rotary India Literacy Mission (RILM) to send all out-of-school children in the age group of 6 to 14 years, including children with special needs and children at risk, back to school by facilitating their access to mainstream state-funded primary/elementary schools, thereby enabling them to complete their studies. This program was launched on 15th August 2015, on the occasion of India's 69th Independence Day. Inner Wheel District 314 is committed to ‘Asha Kiran - A ray of hope' project and have sponsored more than 900 children under Asha Kiran Programme of RILM.

A Special Cover was released on ‘Asha Kiran – A Ray of Hope’ project on 7th January 2016 at Mumbai (Special Cover approval no. MH/02/2016).

Special Cover honouring Padma Vibhusan Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade – 6th January 2016.

Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade (b. November 25, 1948) is a philanthropist and the hereditary administrator of the Dharmasthala Temple. He succeeded to the post of Dharmadhikari at the age of 20 becoming the 21st Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala Temple. In less than four decades, since he assumed responsibilities in 1968, he has carried his heritage to greater heights. Not only by continuing to protect the essence of the Kshetra, but also by achieving remarkable progress in his service to mankind. Considering the magnanimous service rendered by Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade to mankind, several organizations, Universities, Government Bodies have honored him with awards. Dr. Heggade has also been honoured with the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan award, India's third and second highest civilian awards.

A Special Cover in honour of Dr. D. Veerendra Heggadeji on he being conferred the prestigious Padma Vibhushan for his outstanding yeoman service in the field of Spirituality, Education, Health and Rural development was released by Shri Manohar Parrikar, Hon'ble Defence Minister of India and Shri B. Sarangi Postmaster General N. K. Region, Dharwad at a function held at Dharwad on 6th January 2016 (Special Cover approval no. KTK/2/2016). Shri Prahlad Joshi, Hon'ble Member of Parliament, Dharwad and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion. Function was jointly organized by Sanskaar English Medium School and Lions Club of Hubli Pariwar. Lions President Mahaveer Kundur was instrumental in release of this special cover.

Courtesy: Sudhir Jain, Satna

Special Cover on Sri Krishna Mutt Paryaya Mahotsava, Udupi – 4th January 2016.

Sri Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji of Sri Pejavara Mutt will ascend the Sarvajana Peetha for the 5th time at the 800 year old Sri Krishna Mutt of Udupi on 18th January 2016, thus becoming the first swamiji to do so since the biennial Paryaya system began in 1522. The 84 year old Swamiji ascended the peetha in 1952, 1968, 1984 and 2000. Sri Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji ascended the seat as the 32nd head of the Pejavara Matha. He was born on the 27th of April, 1931 as the second child of Sri Narayanacharya and Srimati Kamalamma, a devout couple from Ramakunja.

To commemorate 5th Paryaya of Sri Sri Vishwesha Teertha Swamiji of Pejawar Mutt a Special Cover was released on Sri Pejawar Adhokshaja Mutt of Udupi by S. Rajendra Kumar, Postmaster of South Karnataka Zone at the Poornaprajna Mantapa, Car Street, Udupi on 4th January 2016 (Special Cover approval no. KTK/01/2016).

Cover Courtesy: Mansoor Bolar, Mengaluru

Hot Air Balloon Carried Cover - 3rd January 2016.

The 2nd Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival 2016 is being held at Pollachi, Coimbatore from 12th to 16th January 2016. It has participation of 8 hot air balloons from 6 Nations, Including 3 special shape balloons. To commemorate 2nd Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival 2016, the Department of Posts organized the event jointly with Global Media Box Innovations and released a Special Hot Air Balloon Carried Cover at Pollachi. The covers were carred from Pollachi to Kovilpalayam on 3rd January 2016. The Kovilpalayam post office delivered the carried covers.

At about 6.30 a.m. on 3rd January morning, a hot air balloon took off from Sakthi Mills ground at Pollachi and at about 8 a.m. it landed at Kovipalayam, travelling 10 to 15 km. Travelling in the balloon were three people – the pilot, a staff of the Department of Posts and a philatelist and with them were Carried Covers. Later Postmaster General of Western Region Ms. Manju Pillai released the special cover at a function held at Pollachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and it was received by B.K. Krishnaraj Vanavarayar, Chairman of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Coimbatore Kendra (Special Cover approval No. TN/02/2016). There was an exhibition of stamps and philately products and a My Stamp counter at the venue. 1000 Covers have been printed and would be available for sale at Coimbatore Philatelic Bureau.

Website of Philatelic Congress of India launched.

The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) is the Indian National Federation of Philatelic Societies. It was formed in a Preparatory General Body meeting held in Calcutta (Kolkata) on 29th December 1975 during the National Philatelic Exhibition INPEX-1975. It is a registered body under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.

An official website of Philatelic Congress of India is launched. URL of website is www.philateliccongressofindia.com. Website provides information about the organisation, Governing Council, News, Membership information, FIP Commission delegates, Accredited Jury Members and other useful information. Membership for of PCI can also be downloaded from the website. Website is developed by Shri Prashant Pandya.