RED CROSS CENTENARY (1863-1963) The idea of the Red Cross was convinced by Henri Dunant in 1859 when he saw forty thousand dying and wounded soldiers lying uncared for on the battlefield of Solferino Italy). The organisation itself came into existence in 1863 as a result of his efforts to establish an International body for taking care of the sick and wounded in all wars. Tended with care and devotion, it has now become the great international institution whose primary function is the relief of human suffering on the impartial basis. Besides its traditional services in times of war and conflicts, the Red Cross all over the world has an extensive peace-time programme for the promotion of health, prevention of disease and mitigation of suffering.

The centenary of the foundation of the Red Cross is being celebrated by the national Red Cross Societies in 90 countries this year. The day for the main celebrations in India is the 8th May, which is the birthday of the founder of the Red Cross and is observed every year as World Red Cross Day. To mark the occasion the Posts and Telegraph Department has decided to bring out a special postage stamp in commemoration of the Red Cross Centenary.

Fifty-two other countries are also bringing out special postage stamps on the occasion. A specially designed First Day Cover will be made available for sale at Philatelic bureaux and certain selected post offices throughout the country. Special First Day Cancellation will be used at philatelic bureaux only.

A specially designed First Day Cover will be made available for sale at Philatelic bureaux and certain selected post offices throughout the country. Special First Day Cancellation will be used at philatelic bureaux only.

Source : Information Folder issued by Indian Posts & Telegraph Department, Government of India