Hello again! Thanks a lot for reading the June 2025 highlights and sharing your feedback. I really appreciate all your kind words, suggestions, and even the criticisms. Every comment helps me improve this blog for all of us.
With the rainy season here and monsoon covering most parts of India, I hope you’re doing well and enjoying your philately hobby. You’ve probably heard many reminders about protecting your collection from moisture, so I won’t repeat that.
Lately, I’ve noticed some folks creating or collecting philatelic items that are not quite accurate technically. While collecting is a personal choice, remember that our collections tell a silent story of history. I encourage you to review your collection, reflect on your interests, and explore some good philatelic literature. This will help you build a collection with more correct and meaningful materials.
Last month, we launched a philately challenge with cash prizes. To my surprise, we got an entry with all correct answers! As July ends soon, we will announce the winner and send the prize as promised.
This month, we have 6 new questions for you at the end of this post. Read carefully and don’t miss the challenge section for rules and how to join. Let’s get started!
Stampdesk India
National Doctor’s Day 2025: Special Pictorial Cancellation Released Across Kerala
On July 1, 2025, the Kerala Postal Circle unveiled a special pictorial cancellation at its Philatelic Bureaus in Kozhikode, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram. This initiative commemorates National Doctor’s Day, honoring the invaluable contributions of medical professionals to public health and well-being. The cancellation features a design that highlights the theme “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?” emphasizing the resilience and dedication of doctors in the face of challenges. Collectors and the public are encouraged to visit these bureaus to obtain the unique cancellation on their mail and philatelic materials.
National Doctor’s Day is observed annually on July 1 in India to pay tribute to the medical fraternity. The date marks the birth and death anniversary of Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, a renowned physician and former Chief Minister of West Bengal. In 2025, the theme “Behind the Mask: Who Heals the Healers?” was adopted to acknowledge the emotional and physical toll on healthcare workers, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The special pictorial cancellation serves as a tangible expression of gratitude and recognition for the selfless service rendered by doctors across the country.
India Post Honors Postal Workforce with Special Picture Postcards on National Postal Worker Day
On July 1, 2025, the Philately Division of India Post released a special set of five picture postcards to commemorate National Postal Worker Day. This initiative aims to honor the dedication and hard work of postal employees who ensure the timely delivery of letters, parcels, and essential services across the country. The postcards feature designs that highlight the vital role of postal workers in maintaining communication and connectivity, even in remote areas. Collectors and the public can obtain these limited-edition postcards at select post offices and philatelic bureaus nationwide.
National Postal Worker Day, observed annually on July 1, serves as a tribute to the tireless efforts of postal workers worldwide. Established in 1997 by postal employees in Seattle, USA, the day recognizes the commitment of postal staff who navigate various challenges to ensure the smooth operation of mail services. In India, while National Postal Worker Day is not officially recognized, the spirit of the observance resonates deeply within the country. India boasts the largest postal network globally, with over 1.55 lakh post offices and more than 500,000 postal employees. These workers play a crucial role in connecting communities, delivering pensions, distributing medicines, and facilitating e-commerce deliveries, among other services. The release of the special picture postcards underscores the importance of acknowledging their contributions to the nation’s development.
Madhya Pradesh Postal Circle Commemorates First Samadhi Remembrance of Ganacharya Shri Virag Sagar Ji Maharaj with Special Cover
On July 4, 2025, the Madhya Pradesh Postal Circle released a special cover in Indore (452001) to mark the first Samadhi remembrance of Param Pujya Ganacharya Shri Virag Sagar Ji Maharaj. This initiative honors the profound spiritual legacy of the revered Jain Acharya, who passed away in July 2024 in Jalna, Maharashtra. The cover features symbolic representations of Jain philosophy and the Acharya’s contributions to the community.
Ganacharya Shri Virag Sagar Ji Maharaj, born in Patharia, Damoh district, Madhya Pradesh, was a prominent figure in the Digambara Jain tradition. Over his lifetime, he initiated over 300 monks and nuns, establishing a significant monastic order. His teachings emphasized non-violence, self-discipline, and spiritual enlightenment. The release of this special cover serves as a tribute to his enduring impact on Jainism and the spiritual community. The cover’s design encapsulates elements of Jain iconography, reflecting the Acharya’s dedication to preserving and promoting Jain values.
Stamp of Honour: Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s 125th Birth Anniversary
On July 9, 2025, India Post unveiled a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. The ceremony took place at the Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi, attended by Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Dr. Jitendra Singh. The stamp, designed by Nenu Gupta, pays tribute to Mookerjee’s contributions to education, national unity, and inclusive development.
Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was a prominent nationalist, educationist, and the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the Bharatiya Janata Party. He was a staunch advocate for national integration and played a pivotal role in opposing the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370. His efforts culminated in the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The commemorative stamp and coin released on his 125th birth anniversary serve as a recognition of his enduring legacy in shaping India’s political and educational landscape.
Uttar Pradesh Postal Circle Issued First-Ever Elephant Carried Cover on Guru Purnima
On the morning of Guru Purnima, July 10, 2025, India Post and the Philatelic Society of Uttar Pradesh released a unique special cover from Siddharth Enclave Sub Post Office — the first-ever elephant-carried mail cover in India.
The chief guest was Mohini, an elephant who carried the covers. Assisted by mahavat Dilshad and helper Sonu, postman Dr. Babu Lal Gautam, an M.Phil. and Ph.D. holder, dispatched the covers atop Mohini. The event featured a rare Golden Special Cancellation, the first of its kind in Uttar Pradesh.
Secretary General Dr. Aditya Singh handed a VIP album to Mr. Bal Krishna Pandey, SSPo of Gorakhpur Division, who flagged off the “elephant mail.” Senior members of the society, including Mr. Raman Mandal, Adv. M. Shariq, Mr. Sandeep Chaurasia, Mr. Himanshu Kumar Singh, and Dr. Krishna Kumar Pandey, were also present.
The cover beautifully tells the story of Gautam Buddha and the elephant Nalagiri, who once attacked him but was calmed by Buddha’s compassion. The release took place at Siddharth Enclave SO, named after Buddha before his enlightenment.
Special Cover Released to Honor Dr. Ambedkar and Constitution’s 75th Anniversary
On 12th July, the Telangana Postal Circle released a special cover. This cover celebrates the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution. It honors Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly.
The special cover was launched in Hyderabad (500001). Along with it, a brochure and a set of picture postcards were also released. These postcards show beautiful art and calligraphy from the Constitution of India.
This release is a respectful tribute to Babasaheb Ambedkar and the historic Constitution.
Karnataka Postal Circle Commemorates World Paper Bag Day with Special Releases
On July 12, 2025, the Karnataka Postal Circle marked World Paper Bag Day by unveiling a special pictorial cancellation at its four Philatelic Bureaus: Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi. The Bengaluru General Post Office (GPO) also released a themed picture postcard in collaboration with the Postcrossing Society of India (PSOI), celebrating the global movement towards sustainable alternatives to plastic bags.
World Paper Bag Day, observed annually on July 12, honors the 1852 invention of the first machine to mass-produce paper bags by Francis Wolle. This day serves as a reminder of the environmental benefits of using paper bags over plastic ones. In 2025, Karnataka’s postal circle joined the global effort by releasing a special pictorial cancellation and a picture postcard to raise awareness about the importance of paper bags in reducing plastic waste.
India Post Honors Chandra Bhanu Gupta with Commemorative Stamp
On July 13, 2025, India Post unveiled a commemorative postage stamp honoring Chandra Bhanu Gupta, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, at the National Postal Training Centre (NPTC) in Lucknow. The release ceremony was graced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who praised Gupta’s legacy of public service and integrity.
Born on July 14, 1902, in Atrauli, Aligarh, Chandra Bhanu Gupta served three terms as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Known for his simplicity and dedication, he played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s administrative framework. Gupta’s tenure was marked by initiatives promoting education and public welfare, including the establishment of institutions like the Children’s Museum and Bal Vidya Mandir in Lucknow. His commitment to democratic values and frugality left an indelible mark on Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape.
Special Cancellation to Commemorate Shubhanshu Shukla’s Return from ISS
On July 15, 2025, the Mumbai General Post Office (GPO) released a special pictorial cancellation to honor Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s successful return from the International Space Station (ISS). This commemorative gesture celebrates India’s growing presence in space exploration.
On July 15, 2025, the Raipur General Post Office (GPO) released a special pictorial cancellation to commemorate the successful return of the Axiom-4 mission. This mission marked a significant milestone as it was the first human spaceflight to the International Space Station (ISS) involving astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary. The commemorative cancellation pays tribute to the collaborative efforts in space exploration and the safe return of the crew.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla returned to Earth on July 15, 2025, concluding an 18-day mission aboard the ISS as part of Axiom Mission 4. During his time in space, Shukla conducted over 60 scientific experiments, including seven led by ISRO, focusing on areas such as plant biology, materials science, and artificial intelligence. Notably, he led the “Sprouts Project,” which investigated seed germination in microgravity, with potential applications for sustainable agriculture in space.
Karnataka Postal Circle Marks World Youth Skills Day with Special Cancellation
On July 15, 2025, the Karnataka Postal Circle released a special cancellation at its Philatelic Bureaus in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi to celebrate World Youth Skills Day. The cancellation honors the power of youth skills in transforming dreams into reality.
A picture postcard was also released in association with the Postcrossing Welfare Society of India to further highlight this important occasion.
World Youth Skills Day, held every July 15, highlights the vital role of skills in empowering young people for the future. Karnataka’s tribute shines a light on its youth’s diverse talents—from cutting-edge technology to traditional crafts—showcasing their role in building a skilled, innovative India.
Karnataka Postal Circle Commemorates World Snake Day with Special Release
On July 16, 2025, the Karnataka Postal Circle, in partnership with the Postcrossing Welfare Society of India (PSOI), released a special cancellation and a set of five postcards at Bannerghatta Biological Park to mark World Snake Day.
Observed annually on July 16, World Snake Day raises awareness about the vital role snakes play in ecosystems and the need for their conservation. This unique postal release highlights Karnataka’s commitment to wildlife protection and educates the public about these often misunderstood reptiles.
India Post Releases Customized My Stamp for Bank of Baroda’s 118th Foundation Day
On July 20, 2025, India Post issued a special Customized My Stamp to celebrate the 118th Foundation Day of Bank of Baroda. Along with the My Stamp, Maharashtra Postal Circle released a special cover at Mumbai to mark this occasion.
Bank of Baroda was founded in 1908 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda. It started as a small regional bank but quickly grew to become one of India’s largest and most trusted banks. Today, it serves millions of customers across India and abroad.
Commemorating APT 2.0 Rollout with Special Pictorial Cancellations
On July 22, 2025, the Ahmedabad General Post Office (GPO) released a special pictorial cancellation to celebrate the nationwide deployment of Advanced Postal Technology (APT) 2.0. This initiative marks a significant milestone in India Post’s IT modernization efforts. The event was inaugurated by Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav, Postmaster General of North Gujarat Region, alongside senior officials.
On same day, the Chhattisgarh Postal Circle also released a special pictorial cancellation at the Raipur General Post Office (GPO) to commemorate the nationwide rollout of Advanced Postal Technology (APT) 2.0. This marks a significant milestone in India Post’s IT modernization efforts.
APT 2.0 is an in-house developed IT solution aimed at modernizing and streamlining postal operations across India. The system introduces features such as UPI-based digital payments via QR codes, GPS-enabled delivery tracking, and OTP-secured transactions. These enhancements are designed to improve service delivery, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
India Post Honors Rani Chennabhairadevi with Commemorative Stamp
On July 24, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a commemorative postage stamp at Rashtrapati Bhavan to honor Rani Chennabhairadevi, the 16th-century queen of Gerusoppa. Known as the “Queen of Pepper,” she ruled for 54 years, the longest reign by any Indian queen. The ceremony was attended by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and Rajya Sabha MP D. Veerendra Heggade, who praised her leadership and contributions.
Rani Chennabhairadevi, also called “Raina Da Pimenta” by the Portuguese, was renowned for her exceptional trading skills. She exported spices like pepper, cinnamon, and sandalwood, making her kingdom a key commercial hub. Her reign was marked by military victories against the Portuguese and progressive policies that uplifted marginalized communities. The release of this stamp aims to revive her legacy and inspire future generations.
Chhattisgarh Postal Circle Celebrates National Broadcasting Day with Special Release
On July 23, 2025, the Chhattisgarh Postal Circle commemorated National Broadcasting Day by releasing a special cancellation cachet and a set of picture postcards at the Raipur General Post Office (GPO). The event was attended by the Director of Postal Services, Deputy Director General (Engineering and All India Radio Station Head), postal employees, philatelists, and school children.
National Broadcasting Day, observed annually on July 23, marks the establishment of All India Radio (AIR) in 1927. The Chhattisgarh Postal Circle’s initiative highlights the significant role of broadcasting in shaping public communication and information dissemination.
Uttarakhand Commemorates Jim Corbett’s 150th Birth Anniversary with Special Cover Release
On July 25, 2025, the 150th birth anniversary of Edward James “Jim” Corbett was celebrated at the Ramnagar Municipal Hall, Uttarakhand. The event featured the release of a special cover by Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal, alongside a documentary on Corbett’s conservation legacy. The ceremony was attended by local dignitaries, forest officials, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Jim Corbett, born in 1875 in Nainital, was a renowned hunter-turned-conservationist. He played a pivotal role in establishing India’s first national park, which was later named Jim Corbett National Park in his honor. Corbett’s legacy continues to inspire wildlife conservation efforts in India.
India and Maldives Release Joint Commemorative Stamp for 60th Anniversary
On July 25, 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu unveiled a commemorative stamp to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The stamp features the Indian Uru, a traditional wooden dhow from Kerala, and the Maldivian Vadhu Dhoni, a coastal fishing boat, symbolizing their shared maritime heritage.
The release took place during Modi’s two-day state visit to the Maldives, coinciding with the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations. This gesture underscores the deep-rooted ties between India and the Maldives, dating back to 1965. The stamps not only commemorate six decades of diplomatic relations but also highlight the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
Karnataka Postal Circle Marks World Hepatitis Day with Special Cancellation
On July 28, 2025, the Karnataka Postal Circle issued a special pictorial cancellation to commemorate World Hepatitis Day. This initiative was available at all four Philatelic Bureaus—Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi—across the state.
World Hepatitis Day is observed annually on July 28 to raise awareness about viral hepatitis and its impact on global health. The Karnataka Postal Circle’s special cancellation aimed to spread messages of prevention, testing, and treatment, aligning with the global theme of building a hepatitis-free future. This initiative underscores the role of philately in promoting health awareness and education.
India Post’s Philatelic Salute on International Tiger Day 2025
To mark International Tiger Day 2025, India Post released a series of philatelic items across various postal circles. Odisha issued a special cover and pictorial cancellation. Chhattisgarh released a special cancellation promoting tiger conservation. Madhya Pradesh Postal Circle led with the release of 9 special covers from different tiger reserves and a set of 11 tiger-themed postcards. Karnataka joined with covers from Biligiri Rangaswamy and Kali Tiger Reserves. These releases reflect India Post’s continued efforts in spreading awareness about wildlife conservation through stamps and postal memorabilia.
To explore all the special covers, cancellations, and postcards released for International Tiger Day 2025, read more here.
Historic Postal Tribute to India’s Chess Star Divya Deshmukh
India Post released a special cancellation cachet on July 29, 2025, at Raipur GPO to honor Divya Deshmukh, the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup. The event was graced by senior postal officials and philatelists celebrating this milestone.
This unique cancellation celebrates Divya’s inspiring victory in the prestigious 2025 FIDE Women’s World Cup. It highlights the rise of Indian women in sports and marks a proud moment for India Post, which unveiled the special cancellation the following day in Maharashtra, led by Chief Postmaster General Amitabh Singh.
India Post Commemorates Successful Launch of NISAR Mission with Special Cancellation
On July 30, 2025, India Post released a special cancellation to honor the successful launch of the prestigious NISAR Mission. The cancellation ceremony was led by Shri Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General of Maharashtra Circle, Shri Sudhir Jakhere, Assistant Postmaster General (Business Development), and Shri Yadagiri G. Nyalapelli, Assistant Director (PSR).
The NISAR Mission is a significant Indo-US collaborative satellite project aimed at enhancing Earth observation capabilities. This special cancellation reflects India Post’s tribute to this landmark scientific achievement and international cooperation.
India Post Commemorates 30 Years of Mobile Industry with Special Cover & My Stamp
On July 31, 2025, India Post, West Bengal Circle, unveiled a Special Cover and My Stamp to commemorate 30 years of the mobile industry in India. The event took place in Kolkata, with Shri Ashok Kumar, Chief Postmaster General, West Bengal Circle, leading the ceremony. The release highlights the transformative journey of mobile telephony in India.
The commemorative items were launched in conjunction with a grand celebration organized by the All India Mobile Retailers Association (AIMRA) at The Almond, Kolkata. The event marked the milestone of the first mobile call made on July 31, 1995, between then Union Communications Minister Shri Sukh Ram and West Bengal Chief Minister Shri Jyoti Basu. This momentous occasion ushered India into the mobile era, revolutionizing communication across the nation.
Signed, Stamped & Sent
This month’s cover is an international air mail cover from the People’s Republic of China to India features a set of six stamps issued in 2023, each depicting the stunning landscapes of Taihang Mountain, a prominent mountain range in northern China. The denominations range from 0.80 to 1.50 yuan, and the stamps beautifully illustrate the rugged cliffs, mist-covered peaks, and scenic vistas that define Taihang.
Taihang Mountain, known as the “Backbone of China,” stretches over 400 kilometers through Shanxi, Hebei, and Henan provinces. It holds deep cultural and historical significance, often celebrated in Chinese poetry and art for its majestic beauty and role in regional ecology. The mountain range is also a UNESCO-recognized site for its rich biodiversity and geological formations.
Postmarked from Suzhou on September 3, 2023, the cover preserves the stamps with clear cancellations that do not obscure the detailed artwork, enhancing its philatelic value. The “By Air Mail / Par Avion” labels highlight its international postal journey, making this cover a prized collectible for thematic and postal history enthusiasts alike.
Philately Challenge
This month, The Philatelist invites all collectors and curious minds to join our exclusive Philatelic Competition, inspired by the exciting stamp releases and philatelic events from July 2025.
Prizes to Win
🥇 The Top 3 Winners will each receive a cash prize of ₹100 for submitting the most correct answers!
Your Task
- Answer the 6 questions below. All answers can be found by carefully reading this month’s blog post.
- Write your answers on a postcard, along with your full name, postal address, and PDA account number with account holder name.
- Send your entry by ordinary post.
- 👉 Visit our Contact Page for the postal address.
📅 Deadline: All entries must reach us by 31st August 2025.
The 6 Questions
- Which revered Jain spiritual leader was honored with a special cover release in Indore on July 4, 2025?
- Name the place where a commemorative stamp was unveiled on July 9 to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee.
- Which postal circles issued special cancellations to mark the rollout of Advanced Postal Technology (APT) 2.0 on July 22, 2025?
- On July 16, which biological park hosted the release of special postcards and cancellations to celebrate World Snake Day?
- Who was the first Indian woman to win the FIDE Women’s World Cup, recently honored with a special cancellation by India Post?
- Which two traditional boats are featured on the joint commemorative stamp released by India and Maldives on July 25, 2025?
Important Notes
- Include your PDA account number, account holder name, and full postal address for prize processing.
- The cash prize will be credited to your PDA account.
- Editorial decisions are final.
- Winners and answers will be announced in our September 2025 blog post.
- Tag us on social media — Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter — with the image of the address side of your postcard if you like. This is optional, but it helps us connect with you and share your participation with the community!
- For questions or help, comment below or write to us.
That wraps up this month’s philatelic adventure! Don’t miss the challenge section — give the quiz a try and test your philatelic knowledge.
I’m eager to hear your feedback, stories, or suggestions. Feel free to leave a comment, send an email, or write a letter.
📬 Contact details are on our Contact Us page.
Until next time — keep collecting, keep exploring, and stay curious!