Swachh Bharat
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | January 30, 2015 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| Quantity | 200,000 |
| Perforation | 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN BL127 Stamp Number IN 2718a Yvert et Tellier IN BF115 Stanley Gibbons IN MS3039 |
| Themes | Children | Environment Protection | Flowers | Plants (Flora) |
India’s Growth and the Rising Environmental Challenge
India stands today as an emerging economic powerhouse and one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, with GDP growth projected at 6.4% in 2015. As the fourth-largest energy consumer, India’s rapid development has brought with it increasing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pressures.
These challenges pose long-term risks—climate change, resource depletion, biodiversity loss and accumulation of hazardous wastes—that future generations will inevitably inherit. The urgency for sustainable action has therefore become a national priority.
Urban Lifestyles and Carbon Footprint
Modern urban living has a profound impact on the environment. Every activity—from daily commutes to enjoying a cup of coffee—has a carbon footprint, largely due to fossil fuel consumption.
The adverse effects of such lifestyles highlight the need for:
- Assessment of emissions
- Adoption of low-carbon living practices
- Promotion of cleaner, greener choices in daily life
Understanding and minimizing carbon footprints is a crucial step toward combating climate change.
The Need for Renewable Energy and Community-Based Solutions
Environmental pressures such as land-use changes, air pollution, and transportation bottlenecks have strengthened India’s resolve to diversify away from conventional fossil fuels like coal.
Renewable energy is becoming essential—but regulation alone is not enough. Community-driven programmes are needed to:
- Understand local environmental issues
- Improve neighborhood conditions
- Develop location-specific solutions
Such initiatives empower people to collectively safeguard their environment.
Sanitation: A Critical Pillar of Public Health
Sanitation is universally acknowledged as a major determinant of health. Poor sanitation contributes to:
- Waterborne diseases
- Intestinal infections
- Malnutrition
- High mortality rates
With its vast population and diverse hydro-geological regions, India faces a significant challenge in ensuring adequate sanitation for all.
Launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission
On 2 October 2014, the Swachh Bharat Mission was launched as a mass movement to create a Clean India, honoring Mahatma Gandhi’s lifelong emphasis on cleanliness.
The Prime Minister encouraged citizens to dedicate 100 hours per year—about two hours a week—to cleanliness drives.
Mission Objectives
The mission aims to achieve an Open Defecation Free (ODF) India by 2 October 2019, through:
- Universal access to household toilets
- Comprehensive Solid and Liquid Waste Management
- Behavioural change and hygiene awareness
Swachh Bharat Mission comprises two sub-missions:
- Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin)
- Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban)
Together, they form one of the largest sanitation and public hygiene campaigns in the world.
Philatelic Tribute – Stamp Design Competition
To commemorate this national movement, the Department of Posts organized an All India Stamp Design Competition on the theme “Clean India.”
The winning and shortlisted designs were used to create:
- Three commemorative stamps
- A miniature sheet
- A First Day Cover
- A special brochure
The top three entries were awarded, celebrating the spirit of creativity and civic responsibility.