Hello again! Thank you so much for reading and sharing your feedback on the May 2025 highlights. I truly appreciate the kind words, suggestions, and even the criticisms. Every comment helps me make this blog better for all of us.
This month, I’m excited to bring you something new — the June Philately Challenge! It’s a fun way to test your eye for detail. I’ll ask six questions based on this month’s content. You’ll find the answers hidden throughout the blog.
So read carefully and don’t miss the challenge section at the end for rules and how to take part. Let’s begin!
Stampdesk India
Special Cover Released on Ram Van Gaman
Ahead of the second phase of the consecration ceremony (Pran Pratishtha) at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya, a Special Cover has been released by the Uttar Pradesh Postal Circle at Ayodhya HPO on 2nd June, 2025.
The cover features Bhagwan Shri Ram, Lakshman, and Devi Sita. The cancellation includes a beautiful line art of Lord Shri Ram.
The second Pran Pratishtha at the Ram Mandir was held on 5th June. In this ceremony, Bhagwan Ram was established in his royal form. In the earlier Pran Pratishtha, he was established in his child form.
A Ram Darbar was set up on the first floor of the temple. It includes Bhagwan Ram, Mata Sita, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughna, and Hanuman ji.
Special Pictorial Cancellation on World Cycle Day
Chhattisgarh Postal Circle issued a special pictorial cancellation to mark World Cycle Day 2025 on 3rd June. The cancellation was released at Raipur GPO.
The official theme for this year was “Cycling for a Sustainable Future”. To celebrate the occasion, a travelled postcard, a picture postcard, and a pictorial cancellation were released.
Permanent Pictorial Cancellation on ‘Kongposh’ Released at Pampore
On June 3, 2025, India Post released a Permanent Pictorial Cancellation (PPC) featuring Kongposh (Saffron Flower) at Pampore S.O.(192121).
Known as the saffron town of Kashmir, Pampore now proudly showcases this floral emblem on all future mail cancelled at the post office. The PPC marks a tribute to the region’s rich saffron heritage and promotes local identity through philately.
World Environment Day
On June 5, 2025, India Post commemorated World Environment Day with a series of philatelic releases across multiple postal circles, promoting this year’s theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution”. Here’s a concise summary of the key releases:
In the Odisha Postal Circle, the Kalahandi Postal Division released a special cancellation at Bhawanipatna Head Post Office.
The Maharashtra Postal Circle marked the occasion with a series of releases from June 4 to June 7, including three different slogan cancellations across Pune, Mumbai, Panaji, Nagpur, CSN, and Nashik.
On June 5, a special pictorial cancellation was issued simultaneously at all six philatelic bureaus in the state.
In the Tamil Nadu Postal Circle, a visually rich release took place at Guindy Children’s Park in Chennai, where a set of 10 picture postcards featuring India’s diverse wildlife was unveiled.
The Gujarat Postal Circle issued a special pictorial cancellation for one day only on June 5 at the Rajkot Philatelic Bureau.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Philatelic Bureau, Indore GPO (452001) released a picture postcard with the message Save Environment – Remove Plastic.
To read the more about these releases click here.
Special Cover Released on ‘Invasive-Free – Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary’
On 5th June 2025, a Special Cover was released by the Tamilnadu Postal Circle to mark World Environment Day. The cover highlights the Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary in Thiruvarur district, known for its rich wetland ecosystem and 118 bird species.
The theme focuses on keeping the sanctuary invasive-species free, preserving its ecological balance. The wetland, declared a Ramsar Site in 2022, plays a vital role in flood control and drought resilience.
The cover, priced at ₹20 (excluding ₹10 postage), was issued by the Chief Postmaster General, Chennai-600002.
Special Carried Cover Released on Introduction of e-Bicycle for Mail Delivery in Tiruchirappalli
On 5th June 2025, to mark World Environment Day, a Special Carried Cover was released by the Tiruchirappalli Postal Division under the Central Region of Tamilnadu Postal Circle.
This cover commemorates the introduction of e-Bicycles for eco-friendly mail delivery in Tiruchirappalli. It was carried by e-bicycle from Rock Fort Sub Post Office (620002) to Tiruchirappalli Head Post Office (620001).
This green initiative promotes sustainable delivery practices and reflects India Post’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The cover also bears the signature of the postwoman who carried it.
Undavalli Caves Honoured with Permanent Pictorial Cancellation and Picture Postcards
On 5th June 2025, a permanent pictorial cancellation and a set of 5 picture postcards featuring interiors of Undavalli Caves were released at Anantha Padmanabhaswamy Rock Caves, Guntur.
Issued by AP Circle and the Archaeological Department, the release promotes environmental awareness and heritage conservation through philately on World Environment Day.
Special Cover on Bihar State Pollution Control Board
On 5th June, 2025, a special cover released by Bihar Postal Circle to commemorate 50 glorious years of Bihar State Pollution Control Board. The cancellation features logo of Golden Jubilee celebration.
The Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) was established on November 7, 1974, under the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. Over the past 50 years, it has expanded its role to include enforcement of the Air (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and related rules. As a statutory body, the Board is responsible for monitoring and controlling environmental pollution across Bihar, with a commitment to promoting a cleaner and healthier environment in the state.
My Stamp Released on Chenab Railway Bridge
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir on 6th June, 2025. The bridge connects the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail. It stands 359 meters high and is 1,315 meters long. Made of strong steel, the bridge is designed to withstand earthquakes and extreme weather. It is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail project.
On this occasion, two Vande Bharat trains were flagged off between Srinagar and Katra. To mark this historic moment, a My Stamp was released by Prime Minister Modi.
Special Cover Released to Celebrate 70 Years of Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore
A Special Cover has been released to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore on 6th June, 2025.
Founded in 1955 by Dr. T.M.A. Pai, a Padma Shri awardee, KMC was India’s first non-missionary, self-financing private medical college. It also marked the beginning of the public-private partnership model in Indian medical education. This special cover celebrates the institute’s legacy of excellence, innovation, and impact in the field of medicine.
Commemorative Special Cover Released for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit Heritage Tour
On June 9, 2025, a Special Cover was released at the Mumbai GPO to mark the launch of the “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Circuit” by the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train.
This initiative is a collaboration between India Post, IRCTC, and the Government of Maharashtra, aimed at promoting cultural tourism and celebrating the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The five-day heritage tour will cover significant sites from the life and times of the great Maratha warrior. The cover includes a Philatelic Travelogue, making it a special keepsake for both travellers and collectors.
Special Cover Released to Mark Centenary Year of SBI Branches in Bihar
A Special Cover has been released on 9th June, 2025 to celebrate the centenary year of five State Bank of India (SBI) branches under the Patna Circle — Bhagalpur, Chapra, Darbhanga, Gaya, and Purnea.
These branches were established in 1925 during the first branch expansion of the Imperial Bank of India. On 1st July 1955, the Imperial Bank was nationalized and became the State Bank of India, now India’s leading commercial bank. To mark the start of their centenary celebrations, a Special Cover has been issued. The cancellation features the SBI logo.
Special Cancellation on World Day Against Child Labour
A special pictorial cancellation was released at all Philatelic Bureaus under Karnataka Postal Circle to mark World Day Against Child Labour. The cancellation highlights the global message to end child labour and protect children’s rights.
Another special cancellation was issued at Raipur GPO by the Chhattisgarh Postal Circle on the same occasion. It carries a strong visual appeal to raise awareness against child exploitation.
World Day Against Child Labour is observed every year on 12th June to raise awareness and encourage action to end child labour worldwide. It calls for safe, inclusive, and education-focused environments for every child.
Commemorative Stamp Released on 125 Years of Raj Bhawan, Nainital
A Commemorative Postage Stamp was released on 20 June 2025 to celebrate 125 glorious years of Raj Bhawan, Nainital.
The stamp was unveiled by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, honouring Raj Bhawan as a proud symbol of Uttarakhand’s architectural and cultural heritage. The event was also attended by the Governor of Uttarakhand, Shri Gurmit Singh.
Special Cancellation on World Music Day
A special pictorial cancellation was released by Kerala Postal Circle at all 4 Philatelic Bureaus on the occasion of World Music Day. The design celebrated the joy and universal language of music.
Another special cancellation was issued at all 4 Philatelic Bureaus under Karnataka Postal Circle on 21st June 2025. The artwork highlighted the theme of music bringing people together across cultures.
Same day, the Tamilnadu Postal Circle released a beautifully illustrated picture postcard and special cancellation. It pays tribute to Carnatic music legend Shri Muthuswami Dikshitar on his 250th birth anniversary. The artwork received wide appreciation from music lovers and philatelists.
World Music Day, observed on 21st June, promotes music as a form of expression, unity, and peace. It encourages people worldwide to enjoy and share the gift of music freely. The idea began in France in 1982, known as Fête de la Musique (Festival of Music). The French Ministry of Culture started it to encourage free public music performances and celebrate music in all forms. Since then, 21st June has been adopted globally as World Music Day, a day when musicians—amateur and professional—come together to perform and spread joy through music, often in open streets, parks, and public spaces.
Special Cancellation on Summer Solstice
A Special Pictorial Cancellation and Carried Postcard were released on 21st June 2025 at Odgi (497231), Chhattisgarh, to mark the Summer Solstice.
The Tropic of Cancer passes through four districts in Chhattisgarh — Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Koriya, Surajpur, and Balrampur. Among these, Surajpur holds a unique geographical distinction.
It is the only place in India where the Tropic of Cancer intersects with the Indian Standard Time (IST) meridian.
Around 21st June, the Sun is directly overhead at noon along this line, creating a rare phenomenon called Zero Shadow Day, when vertical objects cast no shadow.
This day also marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, making the event both astronomically and geographically significant.
Carried Postcard Released on World Motorcycle Day
A carried postcard was released on 21st June 2025 at Odgi (497231), Chhattisgarh to mark World Motorcycle Day.
This day is celebrated every year on June 21 to honour motorcycle lovers across the world. It celebrates the freedom, excitement, and spirit of riding. Motorcycles are more than just vehicles. They stand for adventure, independence, and a strong riding community. On this day, riders from all over the world come together to share their passion and celebrate the open road.
Philatelic Celebrations on 11th International Day of Yoga
India Post marked the 11th International Day of Yoga with several special philatelic releases across the country on 21st June 2025.
On 21st June 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a Commemorative Postage Stamp at Visakhapatnam to mark the 11th International Day of Yoga.
The stamp celebrates India’s ancient yoga tradition and its global recognition. It highlights yoga’s role in promoting health, balance, and inner peace.
A Special Cover was released at Lucknow GPO, highlighting the importance of yoga in daily life.
Another Special Cover was issued at Ganga Darshan, Munger, themed “Harit Yoga”, connecting yoga with environmental consciousness.
A Special Pictorial Cancellation was released at Bhubaneswar GPO (751001), Odisha, celebrating the global reach of yoga.
Kolkata GPO (700001), West Bengal also issued a Special Pictorial Cancellation for the occasion.
Philatelic Tributes to Axiom Mission 4
On 25th June 2025, a Special Postal Cancellation was released at Mumbai GPO by Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle, to commemorate the Axiom Mission 4.
On the same day, the Chhattisgarh Postal Circle also released a Special Cancellation Cachet to mark India’s contribution to this proud space milestone. Best wishes were extended to Shri Subanshu Shukla, a key figure in the mission.
On 26th June, a Pictorial Cancellation was issued at Mumbai GPO to celebrate the successful docking of Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station (ISS).
On 30th June 2025, the celebrations continued at Bengaluru GPO, Karnataka, with the release of a Picture Postcard and a Special Cover, capturing the spirit of India’s participation in this historic space journey.
Special Cancellations on International Day Against Drug Abuse
On 26th June 2025, special pictorial cancellations were released to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
In Gujarat, the cancellations were issued at all Head Post Offices under the Gujarat Postal Circle.
In Karnataka, all four Philatelic Bureaus under the Karnataka Postal Circle participated in this awareness initiative.
These cancellations aim to spread awareness and promote a drug-free and healthy society through the medium of philately.
Commemorative Postage Stamp on Acharya Vidyanand Ji’s 100th Birth Centenary
On 28 June 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a ₹5 commemorative postage stamp and ₹100 coin to mark the 100th birth centenary of Jain Acharya Vidyanand Ji.
The event at Vigyan Bhawan launched year-long celebrations. PM Modi was honoured with the title “Dharma Chakravarti” during the ceremony.
📖 Read full details: click here
My Stamp on MSME Day 2025
On 28th June 2025, President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, released a my stamp to mark 25 years of CGTMSE.
The stamp honours the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises, a key institution supporting India’s MSME sector. It celebrates the spirit of Udyami Bharat.
My Stamp Released Celebrating 75 Years of NSS
On 29th June 2025, a My Stamp was released to mark 75 years of the National Sample Survey (NSS).
The stamp also honoured the legacy of Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis on Statistics Day. It was presented to Shri Rao Inderjit Singh, Minister of State (I/C) for MoSPI, by CPMG Delhi Circle.
PCI Awards 2025 – Honouring Excellence in Indian Philately
The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) announced the recipients of its prestigious 2025 awards, recognizing outstanding contributions to philately across categories:
| Award Name | Recipient Name |
| Philatelic Ratna | Kishor S. Chandak |
| PCI Fellow Award | Gautam Rohatgi Dr. Narendra Kumar Saboo Pragya Kothari Jain Mrinal Kanti Ray Abhishek Bhuwalka Dinesh Kanabar |
| PCI Appreciation Award | Aditya Asthana Santosh M. S. Dilip Saboo Ghouse Ali Zameer Dr. M. R. Ramesh Kumar B. Joseph Stephen Aranya Dutta Choudhury Roshan Prasad |
| Youth Appreciation | Jaagruthi Adka |
Congratulations to all the awardees for their dedication, passion, and service to Indian philately!
Signed, Stamped & Sent
I received this cover from Indonesia through a cover exchange group. It has a colorful miniature sheet released to commemorate Hari Filateli (Philately Day). The artwork shows a traditional andong (horse cart) with children on and around it, designed by Yuswantoro Adi. It was issued on 29.03.2006 during FIAP Exco Meeting held in Jakarta. The two stamps in the sheet are each valued at 1500 Rupiah and are marked “15/28” and “16/28”, suggesting they are part of a series. The background is yellow with a watermark design. The sheet has a serial number: 11000/08810.
There is also a separate stamp at the bottom left. It shows a rabbit and is marked “Tahun Kelinci – Year of the Rabbit”. It is part of a zodiac series from 2011 and is stamp 2/3. Its value is 3000 Rupiah.
The postmark is from Malang, dated 20.02.2024. There’s also a purple round customs mark that says “PASSED BY CUSTOMS – FREE”.
The barcode on top reads: UA011734492ID. My name and address in India are written clearly on the envelope.
The total postage is 6000 Rupiah. This cover is a great mix of Indonesian culture and philately. I really liked the design, the theme, and the care with which it was sent.
Philately Challenge
This month, thePhilatelist.org invites all collectors and curious minds to join our exclusive Philatelic Competition, inspired by the latest releases and events from the Department of Posts, Government of India.
Prizes to Win
🥇 Top 3 Winners will each receive a cash prize worth ₹100 each for submitting the most correct answers!
Your Task
- Answer the 6 questions listed below. All answers are hidden in this month’s blog post – read carefully!
- Write your answers on a postcard, along with your full name, address, and PDA account number (with account holder name).
- Send your entry to us by ordinary post.
- 👉 Visit our Contact Page to get the postal address.
📅 Deadline: All entries must reach us by 31st July 2025.
The 6 Questions:
- Which district in India uniquely marks the intersection of the Tropic of Cancer and the Indian Standard Time meridian?
- Which GPO released a pictorial cancellation to commemorate the docking of Axiom Mission 4 with the International Space Station (ISS)?
- Which city hosted the release of a commemorative stamp on the 11th International Day of Yoga?
- Name the five SBI branches under Patna Circle that entered their centenary year in 2025.
- Which two postal circles released special cancellations on 26th June 2025, marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse?
- What rare solar event was highlighted during the Summer Solstice philatelic release at Odgi, Chhattisgarh?
📌 Important Notes
Don’t forget to include your PDA account number, account holder name, and full postal address for prize processing. The prize amount will be deposited in your PDA account.
The decision of the editorial team will be final.
Winners and correct answers will be announced in our August 2025 post.
For queries, feel free to comment on this post or write to us.
That brings us to the end of this month’s philatelic journey!
This time, don’t forget to check out the Philately Challenge section and give the quiz a try.
I’d love to hear your feedback, suggestions, or any stories from your own collection. You can leave a comment, send an email, or even post a letter.
📬 You’ll find contact details on the Contact Us page.
Until next time—keep collecting, keep exploring, and stay stamped with curiosity!