India on UN International Day of Peace 2005

The United Nations is the only organization in the world authorized to issue postage stamps even though it is neither a country nor a territory. It is also the only postal authority that releases stamps in three different currencies—US Dollars, Swiss Francs, and Austrian Schillings.

Origin of United Nations Postage Stamps

The concept of the United Nations issuing its own postage stamps was first proposed by Argentina in 1947. Later, an agreement was signed with the United States Postal Service in 1951. Following this agreement, the first United Nations postage stamps were issued on United Nations Day, 24 October 1951, in US Dollar denominations. These stamps became extremely popular and sold out within a few days.

Subsequently, similar agreements were signed with Swiss and Austrian postal authorities. Since 1979, United Nations stamps have been issued simultaneously at UN offices in New York, Geneva, and Vienna.

International Day of Peace

During the 55th session of the United Nations General Assembly, it was decided that 21 September each year would be observed as the International Day of Peace. To commemorate this occasion, the United Nations Postal Administration introduced a unique concept that allows postal administrations across the world to participate by issuing postage stamps promoting the universal message of peace.

Themes and Significance of UN Stamps

United Nations postage stamps are more than simple postal instruments. They serve as powerful messengers highlighting global challenges and the UN’s efforts to address them. These stamps often promote important themes such as:

• Human rights
• Dignity of labour
• Child welfare
• Global health and food security
• Environmental protection
• World peace and international cooperation

Because of their universal themes, artistic design, and historical significance, UN stamps are highly valued by philatelists and collectors worldwide.

A Treasure for Philatelists

The unique appeal of United Nations stamps lies in their design, themes, and the fact that collectors can acquire every stamp ever issued by the organization. To date, the United Nations Postal Administration has issued more than one thousand stamps.

These miniature works of art are created by both professional and amateur artists from around the world. Many have won prestigious international design awards, making them highly sought-after collectibles.

Encouraging Philately Among Youth

Recognizing that the future of philately lies with younger generations, the United Nations Postal Administration has introduced special initiatives to encourage children to develop an interest in stamp collecting. These include fun stamp packs and specially designed albums for children, helping them learn about global issues while enjoying the hobby.

UN Peace Poster Contest and 2005 Stamp Design

The designs for the International Day of Peace 2005 postage stamps were created by children who participated in the United Nations Global Peace Poster Contest organized by Lions Clubs International. The organization granted the United Nations Postal Administration exclusive rights to use these artworks for UN postage stamps.

The United Nations further allowed postal administrations around the world to use these designs, from which selected artworks were adopted for stamp issues.

India’s Commemorative Stamp

India has always upheld the principles of peace and non-violence. In keeping with this tradition, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp on the United Nations International Day of Peace 2005, highlighting the nation’s commitment to global harmony and the ideals promoted by the United Nations.