40 Years of Indian Independence

A commemorative postage stamp on the Forty Years of Indian Freedom from British Colonialism (1947-1987) :

Issued by India

Issued on Aug 15, 1987

Description of Designs : The stamp to be released for the Commemoration depicts the national flag, symbolising the nation’s unity and integrity, and the word ‘forty’ in national colours with seven birds indicating the flow of time. Their upward flight connotes the soaring aspiration of the Indian nation.

The First Day Cover has been designed by Shri Sankha Samantha, and the cancellation by Miss Nenu Bagga and Smt. Alka Sharma.

Type : Stamp, Mint Condition

Colour : Multicolour

Denomination : 60 Paise

Overall size : 5.80 x 3.91 cms.

Printing size : 5.43 x 3.56 cms.

Perforation : 13 x 13

Paper : Imported unwatermarked adhesive gravure coated stamp paper

Number printed : 1,00,00,000

Number per issue sheet : 40

Printing Process : Photogravure

Printed at : India Security Press

About : 

• The fortieth anniversary of Independence is an important milestone in the nation’s journey towards fulfilment. It is an occasion to take stock of the achievements of the people of independent India and render thanks to those who made these achievements possible. It is also an occasion to perceive clearly the challenges and tasks ahead. Above all, the fortieth anniversary marks a watershed in the history of the nation when a new generation, too young to have taken direct part in the struggle for freedom, yet, charged with the spirit of resurgent nationalism, takes over the torch from the generation which preceded them.
• The old order changes, but the change has to arise from the totality of national experience and be imbued with the tradition and culture of our ancient civilization. The fortieth year is a symbol of rededication to the ideals which the freedom struggle enshrined and a reaffirmation of faith in a democratic, non-violent, secular, socialist framework. The commemoration of the fortieth year of Independence is designed to rekindle the spirit of total commitment to freedom, communal harmony, national unity and social justice, and to forge it into a firm belief in a future worthy of a nation with India’s resplendent heritage.
• The commemoration of the fortieth year of Independence is being coordinated by a National Committee chaired by the Vice President of India with a Steering Committee under the Prime Minister. An Implementation Committee monitors the events and programmes decided upon by the National Committee. The underlying objective is to instil patriotism and pride in the people at all levels through the implementation of programmes reaching out to every section of society.