Centenary of Robert Koch’s Discovery of Tubercle Bacillus
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | March 24, 1982 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | 35 p |
| Quantity | 2,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Rose lilac |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 906 Stamp Number IN 957 Yvert et Tellier IN 707 Stanley Gibbons IN 1041 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Healthcare | Nobel Laureates | Scientists |
The discovery of the Tubercle Bacillus by Robert Koch stands as a monumental achievement in the history of medicine, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against tuberculosis. Tuberculosis, known as the ‘captain of the men of death’ during Koch’s time, plagued communities worldwide, yet its cause remained elusive. Various theories attributed the disease to hereditary factors or environmental conditions.
Robert Koch, born on December 11, 1843, in Clausthal, Germany, and a qualified doctor from Gottingen University, embarked on groundbreaking research in microbiology. His earlier success in isolating the microorganism responsible for Anthrax paved the way for his pursuit of the causative agent of tuberculosis.
Attending the International Medical Congress in London in 1881, Koch was inspired by the global devastation wrought by tuberculosis. Determined to unravel its mystery, he isolated and identified the Tubercle Bacillus as the culprit. This discovery, announced to the world on March 24, 1882, catapulted Koch to international acclaim.
Appointed as the Director of the Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene in Berlin, Koch continued to make significant contributions to microbiology. His travels took him to India in 1886, where he made further discoveries, including the cause of cholera. Throughout his career, Koch’s relentless pursuit of knowledge led to groundbreaking insights into infectious diseases.
Retiring from the Institute of Infectious Diseases in 1904, Koch remained universally revered. His contributions earned him membership in the German Academy of Sciences and the Nobel Prize for Medicine in 1905. He passed away on May 27, 1910, leaving behind a legacy of scientific excellence and humanitarianism.
The centenary celebration of the Discovery of Tubercle Bacillus not only honors Robert Koch’s groundbreaking achievement but also underscores the ongoing need to strengthen health services and resources to combat tuberculosis effectively. The Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department is proud to issue a postage stamp commemorating this historic occasion.
(Text adapted from material courtesy of the sponsors).