About this stamp
Shri Rafi Ahmed Kidwai, a prominent figure in Indian political life, left an indelible mark with his courage, conviction, and selflessness. Born on February 18, 1894, in Masauli village, Barabanki District, United Provinces, he was the eldest of four brothers. He began his political journey after graduating from the Mohammadan Anglo-Oriental College at Aligarh in 1919, responding to Mahatma Gandhi’s call for non-cooperation.
Kidwai served as Private Secretary to the late Shri Moti Lal Nehru and held significant roles in the political landscape, including General Secretary and President of the Uttar Pradesh Provincial Congress Committee. His tenure as Union Cabinet Minister saw groundbreaking initiatives in transport, communications, and food and agriculture.
One of Kidwai’s notable achievements was the introduction of the Night Air Mail Scheme, linking major centers like Bombay, Calcutta, Delhi, and Madras, which revolutionized postal communications. His visionary leadership also led to the adoption of the All-up Scheme, ensuring the swift transmission of First Class mails across the country.
In addition to postal reforms, Kidwai initiated measures for the welfare of P&T staff, including a weekly off day and setting up mechanisms to address public complaints effectively. His “Own Your Telephone” Scheme aimed at expanding telecommunication services by raising capital from prospective subscribers.
Kidwai’s tenure in the Food Ministry was marked by successful policy changes, including the lifting of controls on food grains. His fearlessness, patriotism, and compassion for the underprivileged earned him admiration and respect.
Although Kidwai is no longer with us, his legacy lives on, cherished by those who recognize his dedication to public service. As Smt. Indira Gandhi rightly observed, his untimely death was a significant loss to the nation.
On the Twentieth Anniversary of the All-up Scheme, the Posts & Telegraphs Department pays tribute to Shri Rafi Ahmed Kidwai’s contributions to the P&T Services by issuing a commemorative stamp in his honor. His enduring impact on Indian political and administrative spheres remains a testament to his remarkable legacy.
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