50th Anniversary of the Arunachal Pradesh

Celebrating Heritage and Progress

The Department of Posts is proud to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on 50 Years of Arunachal Pradesh, honouring the state’s remarkable journey from its early days as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) to its vibrant identity today.

From NEFA to Arunachal Pradesh

During the late 19th century, the region was known as the North East Frontier Tract (NEFT). In 1954, it was reorganized as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) under the Ministry of External Affairs. Later, in August 1965, administrative control shifted to the Ministry of Home Affairs, which continued until 1972 when NEFA was granted the status of a Union Territory.

The push for self-identity came from the visionary members of the Agency Council, formed in 1969. At its first session in December 1969, the Council resolved that NEFA’s capital should be located within its boundaries. A year later, during its second session in Shillong (August 1970), the Council unanimously chose the name Arunachal Pradesh—meaning “Land of the Rising Sun.” This historic decision was formally accepted by the Government of India.

On January 20, 1972, NEFA was officially rechristened as Arunachal Pradesh, beginning its self-governance journey as a Union Territory. Fifteen years later, on February 20, 1987, Arunachal Pradesh achieved full Statehood.

The Green State’s Growth and Potential

Over the past five decades, Arunachal Pradesh has blossomed into a state rich in culture, biodiversity, and opportunities. Popularly called the “Green State,” it has become a hub for:

• Adventure Tourism – white-water rafting, trekking, paragliding, biking, and para-motoring.
• Climate Action – adoption of the Pakke Tiger Reserve Declaration on Climate Change Resilient and Responsive Arunachal Pradesh (2021), aligning with the COP26 action plan.
• Hydropower Development – with mini and micro hydels powering growth.
• Agriculture & Horticulture – leading the country in kiwi production while introducing new fruit varieties.
• Bamboo Resources – harnessing one of the richest reserves in India.

These strides reflect the state’s vision of becoming Atma Nirbhar (self-reliant) while staying rooted in its cultural identity.

Golden Jubilee Celebrations

January 20, 2022 marked 50 years of Arunachal Pradesh’s identity. Celebrations began at Ziro, the site where the name “Arunachal Pradesh” was first adopted in 1972, and concluded on February 20, 2022 at Itanagar, coinciding with the state’s 36th Statehood Day.

The jubilee celebrations were held under the theme “Celebrating Past… Nurturing Future.” A special Golden Jubilee logo was unveiled, featuring:

• The state bird – Hornbill,
• The state flower – Foxtail Orchid, and
• The political map of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Commemorative Stamp

The 50 Years of Arunachal Pradesh Stamp is a tribute to the state’s resilience, diversity, and development over the past five decades. It symbolizes not only Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage but also its role in shaping India’s future with sustainability, inclusivity, and pride.