50 Years Of The Republic Of India Gallantry Award Winners (SE-TENANT)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | 50 Years Of The Republic Of India Golden Jubliees |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | January 28, 2000 |
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| Quantity | 400000 |
| Perforation | comb 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1736-1740 Stamp Number IN 1801a Yvert et Tellier IN 1502-1506 Stanley Gibbons IN 1899a |
| Themes | Aircraft | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Aviation | Famous people | Men | Vehicles | Warships | Weapons | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set: 50 Years of the Republic of India – Gallantry Award Winners (Se-Tenant)
Design Elements:
- Se-Tenant Layout: A set of stamps in a horizontal sequence, each featuring the portraits of gallantry award winners, including recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honors.
- Medals: The respective gallantry medals (Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra) are prominently displayed on each stamp, with accompanying ribbon designs symbolizing the bravery and valor these awards represent.
- Background: A tricolor background (orange, white, and green) symbolizing the Indian national flag forms the backdrop for the set. Subtle images of the Indian Armed Forces, including soldiers, aircraft, and naval vessels, serve as a reminder of the diverse roles these heroes played in safeguarding the nation.
- Typography: Bold yet elegant fonts are used for the names of the gallantry award winners, with the words “50 Years of the Republic of India” inscribed across the top in golden lettering, denoting the significance of the half-century milestone.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
This commemorative stamp set honors the bravery and sacrifice of India’s gallantry award winners, who have shown unparalleled courage in the face of adversity. The Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra represent the highest honors awarded to the military personnel for their acts of valor. The set reflects India’s deep respect for its armed forces and serves as a tribute to the heroes who defended the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.
Usage:
The stamp set can be used by collectors, historians, and institutions to celebrate India’s gallantry award recipients. It serves as an educational tool for teaching the younger generation about the sacrifices made by the nation’s military and as a reminder of the bravery that has secured the republic’s freedom and stability over 50 years.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
This se-tenant set marks an important national milestone—50 years of the Republic of India—and pays homage to the gallantry and valor of its military heroes. It reflects the nation’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating those who have laid down their lives or shown extraordinary courage in defense of the nation. By issuing this set, the Department of Posts reinforces the values of patriotism, bravery, and sacrifice that these award winners embody.
Example of the Stamp Design:
One stamp features Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, against a backdrop of the Battle of Badgam. Another shows Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the only Indian Air Force officer to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra, set against the aerial combat during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. A third stamp depicts Captain Vikram Batra, the hero of the Kargil War, in the rugged mountains of Kargil where he achieved martyrdom.
Significance:
This stamp set honors the gallantry award winners who have displayed extraordinary bravery on the battlefield, safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. By commemorating their valor, the stamps highlight the spirit of sacrifice, duty, and honor that has been integral to India’s 50 years as a republic.