50th Anniversary of Integral Coach Factory, Chennai
Technical Data
Stamp Set | Golden Jubliees |
---|---|
Date of Issue | December 19, 2005 |
Denomination | Rs. 5 |
Quantity | 800000 |
Perforation | comb 14 |
Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
Watermark | No Watermark |
Colors | Multicolor |
Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2116 Stamp Number IN 2131 Yvert et Tellier IN 1880 Stanley Gibbons IN 2301 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN048.05 |
Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Railways | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp: Integral Coach Factory – Celebrating the Golden Jubilee
Design Elements
- Main Imagery: The stamp highlights an Integral Coach Factory (ICF) passenger coach in action, symbolizing its technological advances and contribution to Indian Railways. The background features the factory in Perambur, Chennai, with its production line in view.
- Golden Jubilee Emblem: A “50 Years” emblem is included, marking the Golden Jubilee of ICF’s establishment, with golden accents for celebration.
- Color Scheme: A blend of metallic tones (steel gray and blue) to emphasize ICF’s role in producing all-steel coaches and representing durability and modernization.
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Foundation and Early Years: Established in Perambur, Chennai, in 1952 with technical collaboration from Swiss Car & Elevator Manufacturing Corporation Ltd., the ICF laid the foundation for indigenous coach manufacturing in India. The first coach rolled out on October 2, 1955, inaugurated by Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Innovative Design: As the first Indian facility to produce all-steel, all-welded coaches with anti-telescopic end construction, ICF’s coaches prioritized safety, speed, and comfort, setting a high standard for Indian passenger coaches.
Manufacturing Capacity and Expansion
- Production Growth: From producing 35 shells in its initial years, ICF expanded significantly, reaching an annual production capacity of 1000 coaches and introducing over 200 coach variants to serve diverse needs.
- Self-Sufficiency: Initially, ICF manufactured only Broad Gauge shells, but it later expanded to complete in-house production, enhancing both efficiency and quality.
Notable Contributions
- Prestigious Trains and Exports: The factory has designed coaches for luxury trains like Palace on Wheels, Royal Orient Express, and Deccan Odyssey. ICF also marked its international presence by exporting coaches to 13 Afro-Asian countries.
- ISO Certification: With ISO 9001 for quality and ISO 14001 for environmental management, ICF exemplifies high standards in both production and environmental care.
Innovations and Safety Features
- Safety and Comfort: With a commitment to passenger safety, ICF introduced anti-telescopic designs and modern amenities. The factory also holds the distinction of manufacturing the first stainless steel coach for Indian Railways, reflecting its pioneering approach.
- Modernization and New Designs: ICF continually innovates, producing coaches like Self-Propelled Coaches, AC Coaches, and Special Coaches, meeting the evolving needs of Indian Railways.
Educational and Cultural Impact of the Stamp
- Postal and Philatelic Significance: This commemorative stamp honors ICF’s contributions to India’s railway infrastructure, appealing to collectors interested in industrial achievements and railway history.
- Inspiration for Modern Engineering: Celebrating ICF’s role in transforming India’s passenger transport, the stamp encourages pride in India’s engineering capabilities and industrial self-reliance.
First Day Cover and Miniature Sheet
- First Day Cover: Illustrates ICF’s historic factory premises and a line of newly manufactured coaches ready for dispatch.
- Miniature Sheet: Depicts different types of ICF coaches, including Self-Propelled, AC, and Luxury Coaches, symbolizing the versatility and innovation of Indian coach manufacturing.
Significance of the Commemorative Stamp
Marking 50 years of remarkable progress, this stamp celebrates the Integral Coach Factory’s Golden Jubilee as a pioneer in Asia’s railway coach manufacturing. The ICF’s achievements reflect India’s industrial advancement, self-reliance, and commitment to quality, inspiring continued excellence in Indian engineering.