Means of Transport

Introduction: Evolution of Transport in India

From the earliest days of civilization, human beings have felt a deep urge for mobility, and this need for movement has shaped the progress of societies. The history of transport is, in many ways, the history of civilization itself. A well-organised and efficient transport system is vital for economic growth, regional development, social integration, and national cohesion. It enables connectivity, mobility of people and goods, and supports the overall prosperity of a nation. In India too, transport has been a driving force for development and continues to be an essential link for progress.

Celebrating India’s Transport Heritage Through Stamps

The Department of Posts has showcased the journey of India’s transportation evolution through 20 thoughtfully designed postage stamps, issued as a Prestige Booklet and mixed sheetlets. These stamps chronicle the gradual transformation of travel in India—from ancient palanquins to modern public transport systems.

Palanquins: Ancient Mode of Elegance and Travel

In ancient India, palanquins (palkis) were a widely used mode of transport. The word palki originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Palanki’, meaning a bed or couch. Made of wood, with doors on both sides and supported by a long pole, palanquins were carried by four to six men.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Popular during medieval India, especially as wedding processions for brides and royal family members
• Used predominantly by noble women and landlords
• Palanquins appear in ancient literature, including the Ramayana

The first set of four stamps beautifully depicts different traditional models of palanquins. With the arrival of rickshaws in the 1930s and improved transport systems, palkis faded from daily use, surviving mainly as part of wedding ceremonies and cultural traditions.

Bullock Carts and Horse Carriages: The Rural Lifeline

Another set of four stamps portrays popular early land transport systems—bullock carts and horse-drawn carriages.

Bullock Carts

• Among the oldest modes of transport in India
• Used for long-distance rural travel, agricultural activities, and goods transportation
• Continue to exist where modern vehicles are either too costly or unsuitable due to terrain

Horse Carriages (Tongas)

• Light horse-drawn vehicles used in towns and cities
• Usually pulled by one or two horses
• Still seen in some regions for intra-city trade and goods movement

These traditional transport forms highlight India’s rural spirit and sustainable mobility practices.

Rickshaws: A New Urban Mobility Trend

Rickshaws mark a major turning point in India’s transport system. The next set of four stamps showcases their evolution.

Origin and Development

• First appeared in India around 1880, initially seen in Shimla
• Reached Kolkata 20 years later, introduced by Chinese traders for goods transport
• Became a source of employment for migrants arriving in Indian cities

Types of Rickshaws Over Time

• Hand-pulled rickshaws (two or three-wheeled) – pulled by one person
• Cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and school rickshaws later became popular

The first recorded use of the term rickshaw dates back to 1887. Today, various forms of rickshaws continue to be integral to India’s urban movement.

Vintage Cars: The Beginning of Motor Transport in India

The introduction of the first motorcar in India in 1898 brought an automobile revolution. Initially imported, cars later began to be assembled in India in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.

Iconic Vintage Models Featured in the Stamp Series

• Rolls Royce Silver Ghost – Known as “the best car in the world”
• Austin Twenty (1919–1930) – A prominent British model, with later versions known as Austin 20/4 and 20/6
• Chevrolet Series BA Confederate (1932) – Popular American car despite reduced production during the Great Depression

This set of four stamps highlights some of the most famous and prized vintage cars that once graced Indian roads.

Public Transport: Connecting India

Public transport remains the backbone of mobility and fuels economic growth. The final set of four stamps celebrates modern public transport systems.

Trams

• Introduced during the British era
• Operated in several cities; now only Kolkata retains a functioning tram system
• Eco-friendly and emission-free

Buses & Double-Decker Buses

• Form over 90% of public transport in Indian cities
• Affordable and widely accessible

Metro Rail

• A modern rapid transit system in major metropolitan cities
• Has transformed urban commuting with speed, convenience, and reduced congestion

Conclusion

India’s transportation journey—from palanquins to metros—reflects not only innovation but also cultural heritage and social transformation. This remarkable story of progress has been artistically captured by India Post through a unique and historic stamp series that honours the nation’s evolving modes of travel.