The following message has been received from our Prime Minister: - "All over the world today, the fifteenth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is being observed. It is a day of remembrance, thanksgiving and dedication: remembrance of those who gave their all so what others may live in freedom; thanksgiving for the progress achieved in emancipation of millions from foreign subjection and exploitation; and dedication to continue the struggle until all mankind is freed from 'fear and want'. The Human Rights Day this year is invested with special poignancy in the context of martyrdom of John F. Kennedy, the great President of United States of America. PROBABLY the most impressive fact of modern life is the breath- taking pace of development of science and technology. But all this progress is meaningful only if it leads to the general welfare of humanity and secures to each individual the fullest opportunities for development according to his genius. This is possible only if his rights and role in the society are properly understood, protected and promoted. The Declaration of Human Rights, proclaimed and adopted by the United Nations fifteen years ago aims precisely at achieving this objective, that is, of promoting universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedom for all without discrimination as to religion, race, sex or language. IF oppression, conflict and war have darkened the pages of history, it is primarily because of 'man's inhumanity to man', because of disregard of and contempt for the rights and dignity of others.

In order to banish for ever these evil forces which are a blot upon the civilization and which now threaten to wipe it out altogether, it is necessary to remove all manifestations of racial arrogance, political domination and economic injustice and abuse. Real peace can not be achieved on the basis of a precarious balance of mutual terror but only on the basis of genuine co-operation in promoting a social order which protects the rights and dignity of the individual consistent with social progress and international understanding." The posts and Telegraphs Department is privileged to issue a special stamp to commemorate the XVth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The stamp caries a portrait of the late Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt, an ardent champion of Human Rights, playing a Charkha - The Indian spinning wheel - during her visit to India. The Charkha also symbolises the struggle waged by another great champion of Human Rights - Mahatma Gandhi - for the emancipation of his own country.

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