Hands Reaching for “FAO” Emblem
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Freedom From Hunger |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 21, 1963 |
| Denomination | 15 np |
| Quantity | 4,000,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | Asokan Capital Multiple [Up] |
| Colors | Grey blue |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 352 Stamp Number IN 372 Yvert et Tellier IN 158 Stanley Gibbons IN 466 |
| Themes | F.A.O. | Freedom from hunger | Hands | Omnibus Issues | Seals(Emblems) | U.N.O. |
The launch of the worldwide Freedom-From-Hunger Campaign under the auspices of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on July 1, 1960, marked a significant effort to address the persistent problem of hunger on a global scale. In India, where the challenge of balancing population growth with food supply was particularly acute, the campaign held great social relevance.
Aligned with the FAO’s approved plan, the Government of India established a National Campaign Committee and initiated studies aimed at increasing agricultural production, enhancing distribution systems, and addressing related issues to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.
As part of the Freedom-From-Hunger Stamp Plan sponsored by the FAO, participating countries agreed to release special postage stamps on March 21, 1963, to amplify the campaign’s message and garner widespread support. The Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department decided to issue a special postage stamp in accordance with this initiative.
The stamp’s design features a common symbol provided by the FAO, depicting sheaves of corn above the FAO crest with the words “Freedom-From-Hunger” emblazoned on top. This symbol represents the aspirations and efforts aimed at achieving the campaign’s objectives.
To complement the stamp release, the Posts & Telegraphs Department will issue a specially designed First Day Cover, along with using special First Day Cancellations at Philatelic Bureaux only.
In addition to issuing the stamp, the Government of India has pledged to donate 100,000 stamps as a contribution to the campaign’s funds, further demonstrating its commitment to the cause of combating hunger and promoting food security worldwide.