India National Philatelic Exhibition – 1970

The concept of postage stamps originated with Sir Rowland Hill, leading to the issuance of the world’s first postage stamp, the “Penny Black,” in England on May 6, 1840. Other countries quickly followed suit, with India introducing its first postage stamp, the famed “Scinde Dawks,” in 1852. Two years later, in 1854, the first stamp for use across India was issued.

The exact origins of stamp collecting as a hobby are unclear, but it likely began shortly after the issuance of the first postage stamp in 1840. Initially, stamp collecting was primarily pursued by schoolboys and enthusiasts, who were sometimes disparagingly referred to as “Timbromaniacs.” However, by 1863, the hobby had gained traction among serious-minded individuals who saw stamps not only for their pictorial value but also as subjects worthy of study due to the various mutations in shade, paper, watermark, and perforation.

This shift in focus led to the emergence of philately, which combined the Greek words “Philos” (fond of) and “Atelia” (exemption from tax), signifying a fondness for postage stamps. As interest in philately grew, clubs and societies were formed, and philatelic exhibitions became popular. These exhibitions, initially limited to members of societies and clubs, soon expanded to national and international levels.

The first International Exhibition was held in London in 1890 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first postage stamp. Subsequent international exhibitions were held in Paris, The Hague, Amsterdam, Vienna, and eventually the United States in 1913. Today, international and national philatelic exhibitions are held regularly around the world.

In India, philatelic exhibitions date back to the late 19th century, with the P&T Department organizing the International Postage Stamp Exhibition (Indipex) in 1954 to mark the postage stamp centenary. Since then, several competitive exhibitions have been held in various Indian cities.

The India National Philatelic Exhibition 1970, the first of its kind in recent years, aimed to promote public interest in philately, particularly among the younger generation, and encourage stamp collecting as a profitable hobby with educational value. The exhibition showcased rare and valuable collections, including Indian classics, proofs, essays, Indian stamps used abroad, cancellations, postal stationary, and literature. Additionally, thematic sections featuring diverse subjects such as animals, wildlife, space flight, and family planning were included.

To commemorate this event, the P&T Department issued two special stamps of denominations 20 paise and Re. 1/-, along with usual First Day Covers and separate cancellations at the exhibition site.