Pitcher Plant
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Flora and Fauna of India |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | March 24, 2005 |
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 3000000 |
| Perforation | comb 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2081 Stamp Number IN 2101d Yvert et Tellier IN 1846 Stanley Gibbons IN 2263 WADP Numbering System - WNS IN012.05 |
| Themes | Flowers | Plants (Flora) | |
Table of Contents
Commemorative Stamp Set on the Flora & Fauna of North-East India: Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes khasiana)
Design Elements:
The stamp design features a Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes khasiana), showcasing its distinct structure, including the modified leaf parts: the lamina, pitcher, lid, and tendril. The illustration captures the beauty of the pitcher, highlighting its vibrant colors and the lid that covers it. The background emphasizes the lush greenery of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills, where this unique plant thrives.
Cultural and Historical Significance:
The Pitcher Plant holds cultural importance in the region, where it is known by various names, such as Tiew-Rakot among the Khasis, meaning “demon-flower,” and Kset Phae among the Jaintias, translating to “net with a lid.” These local names reflect the plant’s intriguing characteristics and the cultural narratives surrounding it. As the only Nepenthes species native to India, it symbolizes the rich biodiversity of the region.
Usage:
This commemorative stamp can be used for regular postal services and as a collectible for nature enthusiasts, botanists, and those interested in the unique flora of North-East India. It serves as a tool to raise awareness about the ecological significance of the Pitcher Plant and the need for its conservation.
Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:
The issuance of this stamp set highlights the ecological and cultural value of the Pitcher Plant, raising awareness about the threats it faces as an endangered species. It underscores the importance of protecting the unique biodiversity of North-East India and encourages conservation efforts to safeguard such remarkable flora.
Example of the Stamp Design:
The stamp features an artistic representation of the Pitcher Plant in its natural habitat, with close-ups of its pitcher and lid. The scientific name (Nepenthes khasiana) is prominently displayed, along with a brief description of its habitat, characteristics, and conservation status.
The commemorative stamp set might include:
- An illustration of the Pitcher Plant in various stages of growth, showcasing its adaptability to different climatic conditions.
- Information about its insectivorous nature and how it traps insects for nutrition, emphasizing its unique role in the ecosystem.
- A visual representation of the conservation efforts aimed at protecting this endangered species.
Significance:
The issuance of this stamp set on the Pitcher Plant celebrates the rich biodiversity found in North-East India. It promotes understanding and awareness of the ecological and cultural importance of this unique plant, while highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts. By focusing on the Pitcher Plant, the stamp contributes to the broader goal of preserving the delicate ecosystems of North-East India for future generations.