The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in collaboration with the National Academy of Agricultural Science (NAAS) is organising the Second International Crop  Science Congress at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi from 17th to 22nd November, 1996. In this Congress 1500 crop scientists from over 100 coun­tries will come together to discuss future strategies of crop research for building a stable food security system based on sustainable agriculture.

The holding of this Second International Crop Science Congress has special significance for India as it is being held at a time when several new challenges confront crop scientists. Increasing population and enhanced purchasing power will necessitate keeping a high rate of growth in food production. For safeguarding food security, crop intensification and diversification will be needed and will have to be achieved on an ecologically sustainable  basis.  New tools of molecular biology open up fresh opportunities for bringing about new changes in plants.

The central theme of the Congress appropriately is crop Productivity and Sustainability-Shaping the Future". The mural design of the stamp very beautifully depicts this theme. The rectangular green boundary represents productivity. The red circle signifies sun. Solar energy in conjunction with green chlorophyll comprises the primary plant production system. The wheat grains on top represent bountiful food production. The test tube plant in the centre and an outlooping DNA thread represent the promise held by the new technologies of Genetic Engineering and Plant Tissue Culture for developing new plants with greater productivity potential  for future.

The Department of Post is happy to bring out a stamp on the "2nd International Crop Science Congress to demonstrate India's commitment to agricultural research and appreciation for contribution made by our agricultural scientists. This stamp is also a tribute to the countless numbers of agricultural workers in India's villages, and their contribution to the "Grow more food" programme of the Government.

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