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Monthly e-Stamp Bulletin edited and published by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun.

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Rainbow August 2020

Lifestyle during Covid-19 



The miniature sheet to be issued by SingPost on 7th August 2020, featuring a visual summary of the Singaporean lifestyle as Singapore battles COVID-19. Singaporeans will be able to identify with many of graphics contained within the sheet, a plethora of stay-home activities such as working from home, video conferencing sessions, home workouts, and baking sessions, that many have undertaken during the eight-week ‘Circuit Breaker’ period.

Dehradun August 2020  Vol. XIII  Issue No. 152

Readers are requested to send reports of philatelic activities in their area for publication. Short write ups by the readers about their journals, societies, publications and philatelic requirements can be sent for inclusion in this bulletin to the editor: j.jyoti9@gmail.com

Note- This bulletin is only for circulation among a limited group of philatelists without any commercial purpose. The bulletin will be sent to the readers only on request. Those who wish to receive it regularly please reply giving the name of your city / country with the subject SUBSCRIBE RAINBOW


250th Birth Anniversary of Beethoven



Date of Issue : 28 July 2020


Dear Reader,

I am pleased to present August 2020 issue of Rainbow Stamp News. With the success of the first online exhibition by Bangladesh National Philatelic Association, some more countries have come forward to organize such exhibitions and promote philately. In India too, an online philatelic exhibition at the national level is proposed to be held soon this year. The details are awaited. This will give an opportunity to many collectors and philatelists to get out of boredom, created due to pandemic COVID -19. People got stuck at home with restricted activities and experiencing lot of physical and mental problems. Such exhibitions will definitely bring enthusiasm in the philatelic community all over the world. Though theses exhibitions have their own pros and cons. Our columnist, Mr Naresh Agrawal discusses all the points in his column. Suggestions are most welcome from the Readers on this issue as to what type of more philatelic activities could be organized online during this time of pandemic ?? 

Let’s look forward to such virtual exhibitions! 

This is all for this month. More in next issue.  

Happy Collecting! 

                             

 

 


Contents

§  From the Desk of Naresh Agrawal

§  Recent Indian Issues

§  In The News

 

§  Thematic Watch 


§  Philately Promoter of the Month 

§  Beginners’ Section

§  Specialized Section

§  New Issues from Other Countries

§  Philatelic Library

§  Philatelic Clubs and Society

§  Blogs & Websites on Philately

§  Current Philatelic Magazines & Newsletters

 

 


 




FUTURE  PHILATELIC SHOWS : FRAMELESS ONLINE  EXHIBITION

                                                                          


 With the huge changes occurring presently due to COVID -19 in the human life and global systems all over, there are big chances of changes in philatelic world too. Physical transactions are being minimized. RBI is insisting for digital payment in day to day life even to the tune of  just a few rupees. Physical interactions and contacts are least appreciated and social distancing is being insisted upon. All in all,  it’s the time to become digital, virtual, on line and not actual or physical. However, changes have already started showing in philately.  

It is obvious that the new normal has to come in philately also. The so called new normal in philately is practically transformation of philatelic displays in to digital or virtual from physical. It is known that sharing information online has already in practice for last few years and so the  so called digitalization too had already started knocking then in philately also by  different ways such as purchase of material through internet such as Ebay, Decampe sites. Recognized digital display of exhibits started by EXPONET a few years back. That certainly paved way for new era in philately but  was restricted, slow and  practically ignored though it inspired a few such virtual display platforms.

 But now with the changes occurring speedily and forcefully due to  COVID-19, it has become a compulsion to accept and adopt  digital practices in philately. We have seen in last two three years there have been several non competitive digital philatelic exhibitions through out in the world at different levels. Undoubtedly  digital or virtual exhibiting is  one beautiful and powerful  way of displaying and sharing collections with the public in general as access to the exhibits is easy and from anywhere. 

While looking at the recent past of insurgence of such online exhibiting all over the world, we see, Exponet probably was the first to start  its virtual exhibiting (Non Competitive)  about ten years back and allowed  display of  one‘s virtual philatelic collection in form of exhibits. It has become a platform of  public display of good and quality exhibits of all philatelic areas and time periods in different languages. As it provides a permanent presentation of and philatelic exhibits; it facilitates on-line study for visitors throughout the world.  It does not compete with physical  traditional classical exhibits, but rather enable on-line viewing to everybody, regardless of distance, and thus take part in the support and propagation of philately. 

In India, efforts  have also been  made to introduce virtual philately about 8 years back.  Indian Philately Digest was the first web site in India which invited digital exhibits for display on Exponet site.  This was of course very encouraging but  not much interest was shown by philatelists of India and only a few regular displays from India  could be seen on this  site. However, now  under present circumstances, exponent is likely to serve philatelists in a big way. However, there have been more than 400 exhibits  on exponent online exhibit site catering to all the classes of philately. These exhibits  are non competitive  with no display fee.

In Estonia, this process was started in 2017. Now the Estonian National Museum website features  several virtual philatelic exhibitions displaying quality exhibits of all classes..

 As far as American Association of Philatelic Exhibitors (AAPE )  is concerned, its website allows stamp collectors to publish their philatelic exhibits online. It showcases quality exhibits and allows viewers to view exhibits that they might not be able to see otherwise. Viewers  now are able to not only see these exhibits but are able to examine and learn from them also and get energized and motivated to prepare and display their exhibits. There is no restriction as any one can display his exhibit. This way such exhibiting is promoting philately in a big way and has paved  way for online exhibiting in future.

 FIP Thematic Commission also keeps updating its site displaying exemplary exhibits which have won awards in International exhibitions. This exhibiting is  just a  dream display for Thematic exhibitors because it show cases the exemplary exhibits for the visitors of the site which helps  them to learn more and more about thematic philately exhibiting. There are such exhibitions of Postal History exhibits also at FIP Postal History Commission website

 In May 2020, The Goa Philatelic and Numismatic Society (GPNS) organized a virtual exhibition which  utilized social media to digitally showcased virtual exhibition of personal collections of stamps, coins, banknotes and other. There was huge participation. The exhibits could be accessed at  Face Book and other social media platforms to attract and to have access to maximum people.

 As it will not be possible practically to organize any physical competitive philatelic shows / exhibitions of high level in near future owing to the present conditions and restrictions; a practice of organizing digital /virtual philatelic exhibitions will certainly come in to practice. The latest outcome is that Bangladesh National Philatelic Association has just organized PHILEX-2020 a competitive online stamps exhibition under patronage of  Bangladesh Philatelic Federation. Scanned copies of the exhibit sheets were upload by participants. The exhibits are even now available  for visitors to watch online sitting at their home place and are likely to be available for next few months .However, awards will be declared by 15th August..This is first ever such big competitive digital exhibition organized during this period which is purely outcome of the prevailing conditions of COVID-19. The stature of the exhibition can be seen from the fact that the International and National jury  from different countries have been appointed for necessary judgment. Very high quality exhibits are on display. To name one  from India is “The Phasianidae Family of Birds” by  Mr. Anand Kakadji from Gujrat is delight to watch. The best part od such exhibition is that one can view the exhibits  sitting at home at ease, enlarging the images and text to his comfort. No time bar, no physical exertion, no cost sitting at home. It is understood that such exhibitions will be seen on regular basis in post Corona time to come. Further, this competitive exhibition will certainly become a trend setter of philately for future.

 Philatelic organization in South Africa  is also organizing  yet another South African Virtual Philatelic Exhibition (Savpex Virtual Exhibition)   in August 2020  and has welcomed Canadian exhibitors  to enter a virtual single-frame exhibition  asking for uploading scans of exhibit sheets.  All exhibits will then be evaluated by national- and international-level judges nominated from around the world. For last 2 years Philatelic Federation of South Africa has organized online exhibitions successfully.

 It is understood that in India too a National Level Online Exhibition is proposed to be held in near future. The exhibition is likely to offer 500 plus frames  which will probably be judged by National and International juror. Further, inaugural and closing ceremonies are likely to be held physically. Necessary coverage will be given  through social media. 

 Hence, we see there are several  sites dedicated to online exhibiting of the  philatelic exhibits /. But all have been non competitive and just for display. But due to recent development  in social set ups even the competitive exhibitions  are proposed to be held digitally. A big revolution is bound to come in philatelic exhibiting. A turning point. And  I see this will help promotion and development of philately.

While discussing the future of competitive philatelic exhibiting,we can see the following benefits  and importance of digital / virtual/on line  exhibiting. 

BENEFITS

a)    Non philatelists can be attracted

b)    Wider range of access to general public

c)    No cost viewership

d)    Wider range of viewership.. whole world

e)    Low cost exhibiting

f)     Better exhibiting as space limitations are controlled

g)    No handling and handling cot

h)    No chances of physical loss or damage

i)      Back up scans can be preserved

j)      No or very low cost exhibitions

k)    Easy to study and discuss

l)      Time saving

m)  Clear and legible images  can be viewed

n)    Appreciation by huge range and number of people

o)    Almost no cost to visit exhibition

p)    Digital imaging helps modification of exhibit easy

q)    Easy and convenient view for every one even old or small

r)     Language limitations can be simultaneously

s)    Connectivity with exhibitor and even jury

t)     Exhibits can be sent throughout the world without hurdles of getting clearances from different departments such as taxation, customs, antiquity (ASI) clearances

u)     Jury can have online interview of the exhibitor to clarify its doubts

v)    Better transparency

w)   No or less visiting time constraints 

 DRAWBACKS

a)    Chances of display of fraudulent material

b)    Condition of material displayed is difficult to judge

c)    No Physical interactions with philatelists

d)    No physical essence of  touch, view, smell, feel, atmosphere, ambiance…means the   joy of presence  lacks

e)    Only images pasted on sheets can be displayed : Needs certification form  approved philatelists / society presidents/ commissioners before uploading the images of exhibit sheets (for competitive exhibits)

f)     On frame discussions with jury may not be  possible. Though chat box can help but very limited and not instant

g)    Misses .. watching / shifting  conveniently of 16 sheets at once (One frame)  along with adjoining frame sheets, if required helps instant comparison and helps move with flow of  the exhibit.

h)    Misses presence of dealers which in fact are the charm of any exhibition. Their business is hampered and so the philatelists miss opportunity to procure good material

i)      Misses /lacks activities like quiz, issue of special covers, mementoes distribution, other philatelic  and collectible material, physical meetings of different philatelic groups

 Well, we can discuss lot more other benefits or drawbacks  of virtual philately over physical philately but  presently there is no other better way. Safety and security are major concerns. Life is fast and time is less with people. There are much more works to do. Hence, virtual philately and exhibiting  seems to be the best solution and so it is the  future of philatelic exhibiting.

Frankly this is the time to come out of metal and glass exhibit frames and visit the small screen to reach anywhere in the world virtually literally at no cost. Hard to see and visit  exhibits and exhibitions from anywhere in the world shall be available  on clicks of a few keys. Certainly there are lot more virtual exhibitions  in store for the viewers in near future. The biggest change which we all are going to see is  insurgence of Competitive Online Philatelic Exhibitions along with non - competitive one. So let’s become digital… virtual…..on line

Naresh Agrawal : email - nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in

Recent Indian Issues

 

25 June 2020 :  Musical Instruments of Wandering Minstrels  :  Surando, Ravanhatha, , Kamaicha, Ektara, Burrakathab Dakki,   Algoza - Rs 5 x 12 (In se-tenant of two format)

  New special Covers and cancellations


Global Encyclopedia of Ramayan, Ayodhya : 5 August 2020

Ram Mandir Bhoomi Poojan Diwas 5 August 2020, Ahmedabad ( Special Cancellation)

The Indian Spotted Chevrotain: 31 July 2020

RGHUS @ War with Covid-19 : 1June 2020

Silver Jubilee Celebration of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka : 1June 2020





New permanent pictorial cancellation from Karnataka



New Special Rakhi Envelope


 Karnataka Postal Circle has introduced “Rakhi Post” to help people who are not able to step out and buy Rakhi for their beloved brothers. The Rakhi can be selected online from different designs. India Post will dispatch the selected Rakhi in a special Rakhi Envelope with a print-out of selected personalised message to reach Rakhee Brother, by Speed Post. 

There are 3 standard messages as well as a special message to soldier. The sender will also have the option of uploading image of their own personalised message. Payment to be made online Rs.100/-. The Rakhi Post service can be availed by accessing https://www.karnatakapost.gov.in/Rakhi_Post or link “Rakhi Post” on Karnataka Post home page. The service was launched by the Chief Postmaster, Karnataka Circle, Smt. Sharada Sampath . Customers residing in any part of Karnataka can book online Rakhi to anywhere in India. Rakhi can be sent to our brave soldiers guarding our borders in Ladakh by clicking “Message for Soldier” 

 

- Jagannath Mani, Bangalore

 .In The News

 

 

Bangladesh National Philatelic Association (BNPA)  has organized for the first time in Bangladesh, an online digital Philatelic Exhibition, titled “PHILEX 2020” which started on 29 July 2020 and the competition part of the exhibition will over on 15 August 2020. This online exhibition will remain on the web for the next six months. Around 600 frames are on digital display in the exhibition. The exhibition can be viewed at following web link:

 

www.philex2020.com

 

 


 

The opening ceremony of the exhibition was held through ZOOM platform at

11:45am Bangladesh Time on 29 July 2020.

 

Jury Team Member

 


 


 

COVID-19 Drawing Competition Leaflet

 

Luxembourg Post organized a COVID-19 - Children's Drawing Competition :. The drawings of 8 big winners are published on a real special “COVID-19” stamp and they also receive the sum of € 100 

Special 2020 Europa folder issued by 6 countries

6 countries - Austria - Germany - Liechtenstein - Luxembourg - the Netherlands and Switzerland - issued a common "Multilaterale" folder containing this year's Europa stamps from the six countries (9 stamps and 1 souvenir-sheet).



This folder can be ordered by any of the 6 postal administrations.
It is the fifth issue of this kind after : 2013 (theme - "The postman van") ; 2016 (theme - "Ecology in Europe - Think Green" ; 2017 (theme - Castles) ; 2018 (theme - Bridges)
and 2019 (theme - National birds)

Face mask with letter



Great efforts by Patiala Postal Division. They provide face mask with every letter they delivered at your doorstep.

News Courtesy: Sushil Mehra

Obituary

 

With profound grief and sorrow, This is to inform our Readers that  senior philatelist and Past president  South India Philatelists Association,  Shri. G. Balakrishna Das passed away  on 4th August, after a brief illness. He was the last surviving founder of the South India Philatelists Association, which started in 1956. 

He was a long time Secretary and was President from 1996 till 2018. He was a thorough gentleman and worked very hard to make SIPA as one of the finest Philatelic Associations of our country.  Many stamp collectors have become philatelic exhibitors, due to his untiring efforts and guidance. 

 During Tanapex 2017, He was honoured by the Postal Department. That was indeed one of a feather in his cap. We have lost a veteran philatelist and a Philately promoter of our country.

Our heartfelt condolences. May his soul Rest in Peace. 

 

URGENT NEWS - Exhibitions - COVID 19/ CORONA

Due to the state of emergency everywhere, the following news may be noted :
News for Exhibitions as on 9th May 2020.

1. London 2020 - Postponed to 19 - 26 February 2022

2. Taipei 2020 ( now Taipei 2021) - Postponed to 4 to 8 June, 2021

3. Indonesia 2020 - Postponed to 05-10 November 2020
4. Bulgaria 2020 - Cancelled

5. New Zealand 2020 - Cancelled

6. UAE 2020, Dubai - Cancelled

7. The PHILANIPPON 2021, a FIP World Stamp Championship Exhibition with about 2,000 frames, is scheduled to be held in Yokohama, Japan during 25 to 30 August 2021. It will include the FIP World Stamp Championship Class, Traditional, Postal History, Postal Stationery, Aerophilately, Thematic, Youth, Modern (1980 to date), One Frame, Open and Literature Classes. It will not include Astrophilately, Maximaphily and Revenue Classes.

8. Cape Town 2021 has been postponed, now to be held from 9th – 13th November 2021.

IBRA 2021 

International Stamp exhibition and stamp Fair IBRA 2021to be held in Essen, Germany from 6-9 May 2021 is now postponed to year 2023 due to Covid 19 Pandemic.. For details visit : www.Ibra2021.de 

Commissioner for PHILANIPPON 2021, FIP World Stamp Championship Exhibition

Mr. Surendra Kotadia has been appointed as Indian National Commissioner for the PHILANIPPON 2021, FIP World Stamp Championship Exhibition to be held in Japan from 25th to 30th August 2021.

Philanippon 2021 will have the following competitive classes: Championship Class, Traditional, Postal History, Postal Stationery, Aerophilately, Thematic, Modern, Open, Youth, One Frame, Literature.

Contact information:
Mr. Surendra A. Kotadia
M/s. Dimple Drums & Barrels Ltd.,1119, Maker Chamber No. V,221, Jamnalal Bajaj Road, Nariman Point,MUMBAI - 400 021
Email: 
surendrakotadia@gmail.com Phone: + 91 22 2202 4130 / 2202 4131/ 2284 3244 Mob : + 91 98199 03789

Commissioner for CAPE TOWN 2021 Philatelic Exhibition 


Mr. Shakil Ahmed has been appointed as Indian National Commissioner for the Cape Town 2021, FIP Specialized World Stamp Exhibition to be held at Cape Town, South Africa from 9th to 13th November 2021.


Exhibition Classes: Traditional, Postal History, Aerophilately, Postal Stationery, Revenue, Thematic, Open, Modern Philately, One Frame, Philatelic Literature and Picture Postcards only) 

 Contact information: 

Shakil Ahmed
Dargah Bazar, Balakrishna Road,P. O. Buxi Bazar,
CUTTACK-753001, ODISHA 
Email: ahmedshakil99@gmail.com   M): +91-9437225760 / +91-7008025663

 

Commissioner for TAIPEI 2021 Philatelic Exhibition

Mr. Rajan Jayakar has been appointed as Indian National Commissioner for the Taipei 2021, 38th FIAP Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Taipei, Chinese Taipei to be held from 4 to 8 June, 2021.

Contact information:
Rajan Motiram Jayakar
Flat No.2, Court View,126, Maharshi Karve Road,Churchgate, Mumbai 400 020

Email: rajanjayakar1948@gmail.com

Phone: +91-22-22820570, +91-22-22820572,(M) +919821072417

Commissioner for INDONESIA 2020 Philatelic Exhibition

Prof. Sahadeva Sahoo has been appointed as Indian National Commissioner for the Indonesia 2020 World Stamp Championship, Jakarta, Indonesia to be held from 5 to 10 November, 2020 .

Contact information:
Prof. Sahadeva Sahoo
D 3, Saswat,B. J. B. Nagar,Bhubaneswar 751 014

Email: sahadevasahoo@gmail.com Phone: (M) +91 9337103542

Commissioner for London 2022 Specialized World Stamp Exhibition

Mr Surendra Kotadia is Indian National Commissioer for the LONDON 2022 World Stamp Exhibition which was earlier to be held in 2020.

Press Clippings



News from Whatsapp groups

Special WhatsApp group for study of Refugee Relief Tax  (" RRT ")

 I have very recently started a special whatsapp group for study of Refugee Relief Tax  (" RRT "), and for reviving interest and to explore all aspects of this currently neglected  theme, in spite of it being the most challenging theme of Post Independent India. 

All those collectors  interested who wish to learn, share, discuss, educate and explore this fascinating theme, may contact me  on my Mobile no. 9916374047.

-Surendra Bhaskar,   Email: surand77@yahoo.co.in

 

 Thematic Watch

Observations / Experiences / Facts


- Jeevan Jyoti

The new trend of online stamp exhibitions has started with the first online exhibition Philex 2020 by Bangladesh National Philatelic Association. It will be a good chance for  the philatelists ofevery class of philately to see the exhibits thoroughy especially for the Thematic class which has the largest number of exibits in the exhibitions and very difficult for the visitors as well as jury to see the exhibits minutely. No need to mention that Thematic Class exhibits are often not judged upto the mark and  the reason is that class has become more complicated, technical and comprehensive now than it was  a decade ago. So through online exhibitions mistakes could be easily pointed out and  discussed openly. The exhibitors would be able to get better idea to improve their exhibits and make new exhibits for the  future exhibitions.No doubt online exhibitions will give a big and challenging  task to the jury also to evaluate the exhibits. If any exhibit is overlooked it will immediately come into the notice of one and all. Sometimes in the exhibitions the participants who are unable to attend the  exhibition are the worst suffers as they are unable to see the other exhibits which are sometimes under-rated or sometimes over-rated….

Now coming to the slides in continuation  from the last issue “ How to improve a Thematic Exhiibit….” Concluding part of Current Trends in Thematic Philately " and guidelines for evaluation of Themtatic Class exhibits.

How to improve a Thematic Exhibit…..


Sharing slides of a seminar held on Thematic Philately during CHINA 2019 World Philatelic Exhibition.





To be contd…..

 

 Current Trends in Thematic Philately

Vojtech Jankovič, Slovakia (accredited FIP juror for thematic philately)

 The Development and Generations of Thematic Exhibits

Continued from the last…..

The Generation 3.5 differs from the Generation 3 in the balanced use of much diversified high quality philatelic materials throughout the whole thematic exhibit. Of course, the inclusion of other types of postal history related items and documents meant a reduction in the number of postage stamps.



Thematic Collecting & Displays - Generation 4: Thematic & Philatelic Treatment (also tell a story)

Thematic philately reached a stage of development which we now call the Generation 4 when Damian Läge exhibited his Australasian Birdlife thematic display. In this exhibit he elaborated to perfection both fundamental aspects of thematic philately: a highly specialized thematic treatment, and the inclusion of diversified and extremely rare philatelic materials.

In addition, he linked those two aspects (perhaps the most important and difficult task) to an interesting narrative or story that would attract not only philatelic experts but also casual visitors to philatelic exhibitions. Thanks to this exhibit and its innovative approach, today's thematic exhibitors have started to find new inspirations and develop thematic presentations in their own ways. This gives us new and new exciting thematic exhibits with specific non-traditional themes, in which exhibitors can present both their deep thematic expertise and philatelic knowledge … and often add that little bit extra.

 


However, we have to admit that the assignment of an exhibit to Generation 4 is not an exact science, since some of the evaluation criteria call for a subjective opinion. In other words, a good Generation 4 philatelic exhibit has to be a kind of self-functioning ‘living’ organism, perhaps an artistic or literary work that always brings something new, has a its own narrative value, and uses its own means of presentation … in a word, it's an original work which not everyone perceives the same way. And we know that, in works of art, it is the subjective opinion which matters.

 A few words at the end

 As we can see, the development of thematic philately is always moving forward and is constantly evolving. So why are there still some collectors who prepare their collections based on each of the generations described above - even the early generations?

 Really, it is quite natural. We all have our own idea of what is fun, and not all of us have ambitions to participate in competitions, or even to display our collections in public. Stamp collecting and philately is primarily a hobby, so let us do it in a way that gives us pleasure and satisfaction!

 Try to estimate what your real abilities are, and choose the way you want to go. Let your hobby be full of fun and rewarding to you. Choose for yourself whether you want to have your collection at home just for your pleasure, whether you want to present it non-competitively to friends or in public, or whether you want to participate in competitive philatelic exhibitions at regional, national or even international level.

 If you choose the latter, you deserve our admiration because to build a collection and to create an exhibit of competitive quality, or even to simply present it to others, takes a lot of effort … occasionally accompanied by minor setbacks or disappointments.

 But don’t give up. Your efforts will be rewarded with a feeling of great satisfaction and with positive recognition and appreciation from your audiences.

 -Vojtech Jankovic

GUIDELINES FOR THE EVALUATION OF THE EXHIBITS OF THEMATIC PHILATELY

3.3 QUALIFICATION OF PHILATELIC MATERIAL

 3.4 The material displayed should be fully consistent with the subject chosen. The selection should show the appreciation of the exhibitor as to what is available in the context of his chosen subject. It should also include the fullest range of relevant philatelic material of the highest available quality.

 The connection between the philatelic material and the theme must be clearly demonstrated, when it is not obvious.

 A short thematic description is necessary whenever the connection between the item and the

theme is not self-explanatory. Items without a demonstrated relationship with the theme should be excluded.

 When selecting qualified material for the exhibit, preference and greater importance has to be

given to:

types of items that are the cornerstone of philately (i.e. stamps, postal stationery,

cancellations and postmarks) as opposed to items with a lower postal connotation, even if

their issue or use has been duly authorised by the post

 issues which have information whose contents bear a direct relation to the issuing country

from a political, historical, cultural, economic and/or similar standpoint. Avoid speculative

issues, which exploit the "fashion trends" in thematic philately (these dubious items ought to

be in principle totally excluded), with special reference to issues not following the code of

ethics of the UPU

 normal issues, as opposed to additional parallel imperforate issues (stamps and souvenir

sheets)

 genuinely cancelled items, as opposed to items cancelled to order,

genuinely carried commercial mail with relevant cancellations, as opposed to mere souvenir

documents and any similar items which were created to please collectors, e.g. decorated

FDCs (even when issued by the postal service), and maximum cards

genuinely carried items with correct postage and relevant thematic cancellations, as

opposed to favour cancellations, often with underfranked postage, or, even worse,

cancellations on stampless covers (“blank cancellations”) unless due to a free postage

privilege

 documents with individual, differing addressees, as opposed to covers and cards received by

the same addressee as a result of a subscription

correct postage frankings, as opposed to overfrankings due to philatelic reasons (e.g.

complete sets)

 meter frankings with correct postage, as opposed to favour cancellations (e.g. “000”), unless

the latter is a "specimen" or it has a justified postal reason.

 Exceptions to the above criteria may only be shown if properly justified.

The relative rarity or unusual characteristics of proofs, varieties and similar items, can increase

the philatelic quality of the exhibit. Common varieties (e.g. minor colour nuances) play an

insignificant role and they are likely to adve rsely affect the thematic development. If a variety

does not clearly demonstrate the connection with the theme, the normal item should be also

shown as a reference.

 Common stamps and documents are appropriate if they best represent important thematic

details. 

The use of maximum cards should be limited to a few, significant items, mainly to enhance the

understanding of the thematic information on the stamp. In addition to the necessary

concordance of subject, time and date, defined in the principles of Maximaphily, these items

should have a theme-related cancellation.

 The use of revenue stamps for fiscal purposes should be limited to a few, significant items,

mainly to enhance the thematic development in very important points of the theme that cannot

be covered otherwise. These items are to be properly justified.

 Philatelic studies

Postal items and documents present a number of philatelic variants. If this material is of

thematic and philatelic importance, then a concise and balanced philatelic study is commendable, so that this material can be properly shown.

 A philatelic study follows in a systematic manner the criteria for traditional philately (e.g.

development of the item, varieties), postal history (e.g. usage, routes, handling of the mail,

postmarks) or any other postal philatelic discipline. A philatelic study may exploit existing

sources for further personal research. In order to safeguard the balance of the exhibit, the aim

of these studies is not completeness, but the presence of the most significant philatelic

peculiarities. The extent of the studies is proportional to the degree of specialisation of the

exhibit. 

Philatelic studies, whenever included, blend with the thematic development without affecting the fluidity of elaboration of the exhibit. The thematic text has to continue in parallel with the study,so that there is no disturbing interruption.

 Philatelic text

(3.3) The text of the exhibit should also be written in one of the FIP official languages.

(3.5) A short explanation is required when the material is not self-explanatory or there is a need to illustrate special research.

 

A philatelic text can be used when a specific philatelic characteristic of the item is not easily

recognizable, for documenting the use of revenue stamps, or for presenting a philatelic study.

Boosting definitions, in the style of those of the auction-catalogues, are inappropriate.

 To be contd….

  

Philately Promoter of the Month

This column is dedicated to great philatelists who are promoting selflessly the hobby of stamp collecting in their own way and making a bridge between philately and our daily life.

Abhai Mishra, Dehradun

Abhai Mishra is a noted philatelist from Dehradun, He has participated in several national and international philatelic exhibitions. He has been instrumental  in organizing philatelic exhibitions and conducting  workshops on philately at Dehradun and has also designed many special cancellations and special covers of Uttrakhand.. He has compiled  Uttrakhand – A Philatelic Journey with Mr Rajesh Verma and written a wonderful book “Indian Expedition Philatelist’s Guide”. He posts regularly on the Facebook page “Dev Bhoomi Philately and History Group” a special page dedicated to Philatelic and historical information of Uttrakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Sharing here his two very interesting posts with the Readers. He may be contacted at email: abhai_mishra@rediffmail.com

Uttarakhand - A philatelic journey - Abhai Mishra & Rajesh Verma : This beautiful book gives details about stamps and special covers released on different themes related to Uttrakhand.

Indian Antarctic Expedition : The book traces the history of Indian Antarctic Expeditions through mails and letters carried with the expedition. It documents the Indian Antarctic postal history through cancellations, cachets, labels, envelopes, letter heads, QSl Cards, postcards used during the expedition.


Dev Bhoomi Philately and History Group

Remembering Carpit Sahib (Edward James Corbett)

Nainital was declared the summer capital of North-Western Province in 1862. Christopher William Corbett (father of Jim Corbett) was appointed as the postmaster of Nainital the same year. He served the British-Indian army earlier. Later he also became post master at Mussoorie. James Corbett was born here on 25 July 1875, called as 'Carpet Sahib' by the locals, to C.W. Corbett and Mary Jane. He studied at Birla Vidya Mandir, erstwhile Philander Smith College in Nainital. He was a hunter and conservationist par excellence and killed numerous man-eater leopards and tigers. Together with his friend Frederick Walter Champion, he was instrumental in establishing India's first national park, the Hailey National Park, initially named after Lord Malcolm Hailey. It was renamed as Corbett National Park in 1955-56.

 

A special cancellation was issued during SCHOOLPEX-2012 (29 Jan 2012) held at SJA, Dehra Dun, to commemorate the 75 years of Corbett National Park.

 


Handsrtuck stamp of Landour Post-Office



After the Anglo-Gurka war and signing of Treaty of Sugauli in 1816 most of present day Garhwal/Kumaon region came under the British occupation. They established the postal network in the region. In those times there were no postage stamps (the first postage stamp of divided India was issued in October 1854) so hand-struck stamps were used signifying the payment or bearing of postage. In present Uttarakhand the earliest recorded hand-struck stamp is that of Almora (1823) followed by Landour (1830), Dehra Dun (1843), Mussoorie (1851), Haridwar (1848) and Nainital (1853), according to the book “Handstruck postage stamps of India” by D. Hammond Giles. Shown is the example from my prized possession hand-struck stamp of Landour post office dated 30th April 1841. It was sent to Calcutta. It also shows that 12 As postage has been paid.The content of the letter is also very interesting.

Beginners’ Section 

The Unique Floating Post Office of the world


This is an era of electronic communication. There are verities of electronic modes viz. email, sms, Whatsapp etc. for almost real time transfer of messages, data, files, pictures etc. On the other hand traditional post services are slow and hence termed as snail mail, at times. Many have thought that the days of normal mail is likely to get over and in due course of time they may be extinct like Dinosaurs. 

 

However, in India, the scenario is little different. Post offices have dotted the Indian topography which no other Government service centre can match. Be it urban area or rustic rural segment, post offices are found at every nook and cranny of the country.

 


According to the Annual Report of India Post for the year 2019-20, as on 31.03.2019, the total number of Post Offices was 1,56,600. Out of this, the number of Rural Post Offices was 1,41,001. It is matter of pride that India Post has largest postal network in the world, even surpassing the most populous country - China. At the time of independence (1947) the number of post offices in India was just 23,344.



It had made a humble beginning with the first post office established in Calcutta way back in 1727, under British rule. Subsequently, three General Post offices were set up in the Presidencies of Calcutta (1774), Madras (1786) and Bombay (1793). In the year 1854, Railway Mail Service was introduced. The same year, Sea Mail Service commenced for carrying mail from India to Great Britain and China. 

People visit post offices for variety of purposes - starting from sending letters or parcels to meeting various savings and banking needs. In most of the places, people simply walk across the road to the post office. Interestingly, there is one post office in India, which is not on a lane or in the midst of a busy commercial locality but actually functioning from a boat in a lake. It is not an ordinary post office. The post office is on a houseboat, floating on the aquamarine water of Dal Lake of Srinagar in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, India. 

-Kumar Biswas : https://kumar-omnibus.blogspot.com/2020/06/unique-floating-post-office-of-world.html

Specialized Section

 Cdr. G.Sriramarao, I.N. (retd.)

Bharat Ratna Musicians - 6

Assamese Playback singer -Bhupen Hazarika

 


 Bhupen Hazarika was an Indian playback singer, lyricist, musician, singer poet and film maker from Assam widely known as Sudhakantha. His songs, written and sung mainly in the Assamese language by himself are marked by humanity and universal brotherhood and have been translated and sung in many languages most notably in Bengali, and Hindi. His songs, based on the themes of communal amity, universal justice and empathy, have become popular among the people of Assam besides West Bengal and Bangladesh. He is also acknowledged to have introduced the culture and folk music of Assam and North East India to Hindi cinema at the national level. He was awarded Bharat Ratna posthumously in 2019.

He received the National Film Award for the Best Music Direction in 1975. Recipient of Sangeet Natak Academy award (1987), Padmashri (1977) and Padma Bhushan(2001). Hazarika was awarded the Dada Saheb Phalke award (1992), highest award of India for cinema by the Government of India, and Sangeet Natak Academy Fellowship(2008), the Highest award of SangeetNatak Academy, India’s national Academy for Music, Dance and Drama.

A stamp of RS.5 and a miniature sheet with BhupenHazarika  was issued in 2013 on completion of 100 years of India Cinema

First day cover of Legendary Singers of  lndia including RS.5 stamp on Bhupen Hazarika

Sheetlet of Legendary singers of India

Professional life

After he completed his M.A he briefly worked at the All India Radio station at Guwahati, before embarking on his Doctoral studies at Columbia University. His thesis ‘ Demystifying DrBhupen Hazarika: envisioning education for India ‘ edited by Tej Hazarika and published by Cool Grove Press was available in US. Soon after completing his education, he became a teacher at Gauhati University. After few years he left the job and went to Kolkata where he established himself as a successful Music Director and singer. During that period Hazarika made several award-winning Assamese films such as Shakuntala, Pratidwani etc. and composed evergreen music for many Assamese films. He was also considered a new trendsetter in Bengali Music . The famous musical genre of West Bengal, the Jeevanmukhigeet started by Kabir Suma in 1990’s thought to be influenced by Hazarika. Bhupen Hazarika composed music for films from Bangladesh too which got International acclaim.He was elected as the President of Assam Sahitya Sabha in 1993.

: Cdr. G.Sriramarao, I.N. (retd.) - sriramarao@gmail.com


DISINFECTION OF MAIL

- Naresh Agrawal 

Contd. from the last issue…

 

MAIL  SANITIZATION  BY  IRRADIATION

                                                  

 Mail sanitization is the process which is applied as a precautionary measure to kill micro organisms that may be contained in the mail or to sterilize mail that is suspect of  or known to be  contaminated with dangerous microorganisms. In this process, the mail is decontaminated by exposure to radiation, high pressure, or gases. Micro organisms, such as the bacterium that causes anthrax succumb to these conditions. Ion beam sterilization (high-energy electrons) and x-ray radiation have been considered very useful on individual letters.

Otherwise also this process has great role in  forensic investigations which sometimes require the analysis of substances found in contaminated mail. Identifying toxins or harmful residues present in mail, along with their concentrations to find evidence in criminal cases and information necessary to decontaminate the mail.

MAJOR USAGE DURING ANTHRAX ATTACK IN U.S. IN 2001

The major usage of this method of decontamination of mail was done by USPS  which used to combat the bioterrorism attacks on American people shortly after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Mail containing the anthrax bacterium was detected. Few persons  infected by the anthrax bacterium died from the disease. As a direct result of this, the USPS developed an Emergency Preparedness Plan(EPP) with the goal of protecting USPS employees and customers from future bioterrorism attacks. The plan was composed of six initiatives  such as Prevention, Protection and health-risk reduction, Detection and identification, Intervention, Decontamination, Investigation.

       The SML 5520 is designed as an anti – bio – terrorism tool; the system eliminates contagious and harmful bacteria and viruses including anthrax. Each system can process 70 kg of mail per hour. The system produces no radiation residue or contamination.

METHODS TO IRRADIATE  MAIL   :

The USPS has been studying various different methods of decontamination of mail  to find the one which could most effectively sanitize mail. For proper mail sanitization, the decontamination method must thoroughly penetrate letters, flats, and packages but not damage the mail in any way. In the year 2002, irradiation was the only acceptable method for decontaminating mail. But this method had reduced the rate of mail delivery due to time taken in irradiation..

Ionizing radiation kills bacteria. The energy from ionizing radiation destroys the chemical structure. Thus results in significant damage to the DNA and proteins of bacteria and causes them to die. Three sources of ionizing radiation were selected for mail sanitization that are x rays, gamma rays, and electron beams as each of these could kill the anthrax bacteria. Radiation can easily penetrate and sanitize most types of mail, however, it may damage some other materials.

 X RAYS are a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation. X-ray particles, or photons, are generated when electron-dense materials are bombarded by high-energy electrons. X rays have a high-energy content and can penetrate most objects.

GAMMA RAYS are another type of high-energy electro-magnetic radiation. Gamma rays are released by decaying radioactive compounds such as cesium 137 or cobalt 60.

                                                     

                                                            TT1000 Rhodotron

Rhodotron TT100 is a very cost effective E-beam solution as it develops very high-power electron accelerator devoted to X-ray  ideally suited for customers with medium production volumes. It delivers up to 45kW giving sterilization facilities processing an average of 80 000 m³ of sterilized material per year

ELECTRON  BEAM or e-beam, is a stream of electrons that is propelled by a high accelerating voltage. The energy content of the e-beam is determined by the accelerating voltage and is lower than both x rays and gamma rays.

Of the three ionizing radiation sources, e-beam technology has been found the safest and most readily adaptable system for mail sanitization.

In 2001, the USPS bought eight electron -beam machines and installed them in Washington D.C. and the New York and New Jersey area. And till 2002, e-beam technology has been used to sanitize incoming federal government mail only. A facility in Bridgeport, operated by Sterigenics International, used a Rhodotron continuous wave electron beam accelerator built by IBA Industrial, to irradiate the mail.                     

              
Piece of mail irradiated at a private facility known as Ion Beam Applications (IBA) located in Bridgeport, NJ. Sautello. It was detained at the Hamilton Post Office due to Anthrax contamination. Every such irradiated mail piece was then be placed in a bag with a letter describing the effects of the irradiation. Some pieces of mail could be discolored by the irradiation process         

Letter through FPO with disinfection cachet Checked by Fluoroscope machine and considered safe PCC

NON-IONIZING RADIATION  :  Two of non-ionizing radiation methods that have been used for sterilization are ultraviolet (UV) light and microwaves. Both are effective in killing microorganisms, but in different ways.

UV light radiation damages DNA  which then can not reproduce or survive. It cannot penetrate objects and is used to sterilize surfaces and air only. In addition, some microorganisms are resistant to the effects of UV radiation. Therefore, UV radiation is an unacceptable method to sanitize mail.

Microwave radiation is a low energy non-ionizing radiation which is ultimately kill the micro organisms. Due to short comings like difficulty in control the heating effects as it has "hot spots" and "cold spots”   and low destruction rate of bacterial cells (spores),it is also found ineffective for mail sanitization.

UlTRA HIGH PRESSURE STERLIZATION  :   

Ultra-high-pressure (UHP) sterilization is accomplished by applying a pressure of almost 100,000 psi, which causes physical changes to DNA and proteins. The resulting cellular damage kills the microorganisms.

The UHP sterilization cycle time can be less than 30 minutes and the process is non-destructive to the object being sterilized. This method was found suitable for mail  sanitization..

UV DISINFECTION SYSTEMS  : 

The UV Bulk Mail Irradiation System consists of a chamber for disinfecting mail that has become contaminated by anthrax bacteria and anthrax spores. Contaminated mail is placed in the chamber. Consideration for the characteristics of the chamber in which the contaminated mail has been placed, the location of the C-band ultraviolet lights, the duration of the sterilization process allow effective elimination of this biohazard from the contaminated mail.

GASEOUS TREATMENT   :  Certain gases like Chloride dioxide, ethylene oxide, methyl bromide and ozone have been identified suitable for  gaseous disinfection and sanitization as they have anti-microbial properties . These gases  are not only used for disinfection of the mail but  used for disinfecting spaces and  buildings

Large amounts of gas would be needed to sterilize mail and it is not evident that gases can kill microorganisms within sealed letters, flats, and packages. Gaseous sterilization of mail is not currently a viable option for mail sanitization. But this certainly can disinfect the outer covers and the packages and space where the mail is kept.

STEAM AUTOCLAVING

An autoclave is a device to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 °C or more, typically for 15-20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents. It was invented in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created in 1679.

                                 

The image above shows an envelope contained a phone bill suspected for anthrax has been sterilized using a steam autoclave. The small rectangle over the barcode is the shrunken remains of the plastic window which is readable on removal of plastic. This bill was the worst damaged piece of paper mail I received in the mail, during the first month of autoclaving, due to the large black areas of low temperature toner. Steam Autoclaving in a spore tested autoclave will inactivate anthrax spores. Typical paper mail survives this process. There may be the occasional water spot or in some cases laser toner sticks two pages together but they can be separated and the mail is still readable.

EFFECTS OF RADIATION ON MAIL

Some adverse effects were observed to the mail comprised of a number of papers and plastics exposed to radiation method leading to various mechanical and structural deformations.

COLOUR CHANGES  :

Due to radiation the paper of mail material was found to become gray or may exhibits definite yellowing or some change in color. I some case the color shift is not necessarily immediate but occurred over the time. This indicated that the initial irradiation induced the formation of unstable intermediates, such as peroxides, that continued to breakdown after the irradiation process was over.Contrary to this some common inks present on irradiated papers did not seem to change color.                                                     

Discolored irradiated mail

MECHANICAL DAMAGE  :

According to postal sources, temperatures of the irradiated materials can reach 130degree C. which causes distortion and softening of the clear windows of the envelops and in some cases adhering to the printed matter beneath. Certain printed materials have become stuck together, possibly due to the softening of the resins in the printing inks or photocopying toner. Moisture driven from the paper by high temperature can also condense and cause "blocking". Images on slides have been found to crack due to the high temperatures.

 

Tensile measurements on irradiated paper show that there is a substantial loss in the ability of the paper to be deformed and become brittle, stiffer, loose strength and so paper can not be folded so paper degrades. It may become  fragile, and some plastics have bubbled or melted.                                                                     

Christmas 2001 catalog packed in black plastic bag package to contain any contamination with a letter from USPS. This Plastic bag/envelope has never been opened as after the October 2001 due to anthrax attacks as the Washington's mail became suspect. Letter explains how this piece of mail had been irradiated and is safe to open and view..

 

Irradiation's effects on paper caused some alarm in the philatelic world, which sends large numbers of rare postage stamps and covers through the mail. A number of auction houses stopped sending material through the mail, and Linn’s Stamp News regularly featured reports on stamps and covers that had been ruined by irradiation.

Although at one time the USPS expected to irradiate all mail, it later scaled back to just treating mail sent to government offices.

The response of the Post Office to the anthrax problem has been the electron irradiation of select portions of the mail. The mail is packaged in sealed plastic to a good thickness and irradiated in two passes. Sufficient examples of the irradiated mail have been examined to permit some observations.

                    

 To be contd…..

: Naresh Agrawal - email : nareshkumar1992@yahoo.co.in



         BRIDGE

- ILYAS PATEL

Intro :

Our general perception regarding a bridge is a civil structure built to span physical obstacles without closing the way underneath such as a body of watervalley, or road.  The primary purpose of bridge is to provide safe, secured and quick passage. As per the Oxford English Dictionary  the word “bridge” is derived from an Old English word “brycg”, of the same meaning. In the present article the author do not wish to discuss about bridges, their builders, structural types or any other technical details. While doing his research work on this topic, he has come across Bridge with several other meaning used in different fields. The primary meaning of bridge is to connect and in different areas it is used to connect but with different interpretations. In this context, the author has come across few villages/towns that are named as BRIDGE/Pont/Ponte/ Brugg / Brucke (all these words have same meaning in French, Italian, Spanish, German and Dutch languages) in various European countries. The author is able to trace out few such village/town that have Post Office and postmark named as “Bridge”. They are still existing and functioning. The author is not fortunate enough to find photographs of those original bridges that became instrumental in name fixing. Several towns and cities are now having large number of bridges built to cope up with modern day traffic as they flourished due to their commercially important location and therefore original landscape of the town is changed significantly.

Contd.. from the last….

Zeebrugge, Belgium (Satellite City and entry port for Bruges) (Bridge to Sea in English)

Zeebrugge (from: Brugge aan zee  meaning "Bruges on Sea", FrenchZeebruges) is a village on the coast of Belgium and a subdivision of Bruges, for which it is the modern port. Zeebrugge serves as both the international port of Bruges-Zeebrugge and a seafront resort with hotels, cafés, a marina and a beach.

Located on the coast of theNorth Sea, its central location on the Belgian coast, short distance to Great Britain and close vicinity to densely populated industrialised cities make Zeebrugge a crossroads for traffic from all directions. An expressway to Bruges connects Zeebrugge to the European motorway system; one can also get to and from Zeebrugge by train or tram. A 12km canal links the port to the centre of Bruges.

Zeebrugge, joined to its historical mother city Bruges by the Baudouin Canal, is a seaport and seaside resort with potential. An international port, a family beach resort and the ‘capital of fish’ – that is Zeebrugge in a nutshell. It is Belgium's most important fishing port and the wholesale fish market located there is one of the largest in Europe.


Brugge-Zeebrugge Viaduct and navigable channel

Aside from being a passenger terminal with ferries to the United Kingdom, the harbour serves as the central port for Europe's automotive industry, and it is important for the import, handling and storage of energy products, agriculture products and other general cargo. Zeebrugge has the largest LNG terminal complex in Europe.

On 23 April 1918, the port was the target of a famous raid, the Zeebrugge Raid, by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. This was an attempt to block access to and from the port by intentionally sinking ships to block the canal entrance, thus preventing its use by German ships and submarines. Eight participants in the raid were awarded the Victoria Cross. October 1918, the Capture of Zeebrugge by the Allies.


Brucken, Germany

Brücken (Pfalz) is an Ortsgemeinde – a municipality belonging to a Verbandsgemeinde, a kind of collective municipality – in the Kusel district in Rhineland-PalatinateGermany. It belongs to the Verbandsgemeinde of Oberes Glantal, whose seat is in Schönenberg-Kübelberg.

The municipality lies in the Ohmbach valley in the Western Palatinate. Near the village, the Ohmbach turns from its southerly direction of flow to a more south-easterly one where the valley floor also broadens out. Here it has an elevation of some 240 m above sea level, whereas the higher residential areas reach almost 300 m above sea level. The higher elevations within municipal limits, meanwhile, reach heights of some 380 m in the northeast and 320 m in the southeast. Also flowing through the municipal area in the southeast, near the small homestead of Paulengrund is the Kohlbach.


“Brücken” means “bridges” in modern German. As the municipality's name makes clear, the village arose at a little bridge (Brückchen in German) that crossed the Ohmbach here. The municipality is also known in the local speech as “Brigge”. In some of the earliest documentary mentions from 1372 and 1420, the village was called Brucken (without the umlaut). Beginning in the 16th century, however, the spelling Brückhen (1592) or Brücken (1611) became the preferred form. The name first appeared sometime before 1333 in the Glan-Münchweiler Weistum mentioned above under “History/Middle Ages”, in which the name appeared in two forms, Brückhen and Brugel. The latter form is to be understood as meaning “little bridge” (it has no modern German form). It is, however, a point of debate as to whether the Brückhen or Brugel in the Weistum actually refers to the village in question. Later documentary mentions render the placename Brucken (1372, 1420, and 1438), Bruck (1440, 1564) or Pruck (1570). The name seems to have settled on Brücken by the early 17th century, although the form Ohmbachbrücken has also appeared, to distinguish the village from others with the same name (see Brücken and Brücken). Since 14 January 1954, the municipality's name has officially been “Brücken (Pfalz)”. On that day, the Rhineland-Palatinate state government approved the municipality's application to bear the tag “(Pfalz)”, which means “(Palatinate)”, as part of its name. (The author has not yet collected “Brucken” postmark).


Zweibrucken, Germany (Deux-Ponts in French) (Two Bridges in English)

Zweibrücken (FrenchDeux-PontsPalatinate GermanZweebrigge) is a town in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, on the Schwarzbach river. The name Zweibrücken means 'two bridges'. Older forms of the name include Middle High German ZweinbrückenLatin Geminus Pons and Bipontum, and French Deux-Ponts, all with the same meaning.

The town was the capital of the former Imperial State of Palatinate-Zweibrücken owned by the House of Wittelsbach. The ducal castle is now occupied by the high court of the Palatinate (Oberlandesgericht). There is a fine Gothic Protestant church, Alexander's church, founded in 1493 and rebuilt in 1955.

In 1731, Palatinate-Zweibrücken passed to the Palatinate-Birkenfeld-Zweibrücken branch of the counts palatine, from where it came under the sway of Bavaria in 1799. It was occupied by France in 1793 and on 4 November 1797, Zweibrücken became a canton centre in department of Mont Tonnerre. At the Peace of Lunéville in 1801, the French annexation of Zweibrücken was confirmed; on its reunion with Germany in 1814 the greater part of the territory was given to Bavaria, the remainder to Oldenburg and Kingdom of Prussia. The town of Zweibrücken became part of the Palatine region of the Kingdom of Bavaria.


Bruck, Upper Bavaria, Germany

Bruck is a community in the Upper Bavarian district of Ebersberg. Bruck (Bavarian for "bridge") is a common name for towns. It is a member of the administrative community (Verwaltungsgemeinschaft) of Glonn.

Bruck belonged to the Lord (Freiherr) of Pienzenau. It was part of the Electorate of Bavaria, belonging to the lordly estate of Wildenholzen. In 1818 the community of Bruck came into being.


Bruck – 1874 Germany postmark (Source: Delcampe.net)

  

Bruck, Austria

Bruck, also called Bruck An Der Mur, town, southeast-central Austria. It lies at the junction of the Mur and Mürz rivers north of Graz. First mentioned in 860 as a possession of the archbishops of Salzburg, it was chartered in 1263. The earliest bridge (Brücke) on the site, probably from Roman times, gave the town its name. Notable landmarks are the magnificent Gothic Kornmesserhaus (“Corn Measurer’s House”; 1494–1505), fronted by a wrought-iron fountain (well); the ruins of Landskron castle overlooking the town; and the Gothic parish church. Bruck is a rail junction with important metallurgical (iron, steel, copper), cable, paper, and wood industries. It is also an important market and service centre.


Bruck – 1867 Austria postmark (Source: Delcampe.net)

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is the capital city of Tyrol and the fifth-largest city in Austria. It is in the Inn valley, at its junction with the Wipp valley, which provides access to the Brenner Pass some 30 km (18.6 mi) to the south. Located in the broad valley between high mountains, the so-called North Chain in the Karwendel Alps to the north, and the Patscherkofel and Serles to the south. Innsbruck is an internationally renowned winter sports centre; it hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics as well as the 1984 and 1988 Winter Paralympics. Innsbruck also hosted the first Winter Youth Olympics in 2012. The name translates as 'Bridge over the River Inn'.

The earliest traces suggest initial inhabitation in the early Stone Age. Surviving pre-Roman place names show that the area has been populated continuously. In the 4th century the Romans established the army station Veldidena (the name survives in today's urban district Wilten) at Oenipons (Innsbruck), to protect the economically important commercial road from Verona-Brenner-Augsburg in their province of Raetia.

The first mention of Innsbruck dates back to the name Oeni Pontum or Oeni Pons which is Latin for bridge (pons) over the Inn (Oenus), which was an important crossing point over the Inn River. The Counts of Andechs acquired the town in 1180. In 1248 the town passed into the hands of the Counts of Tyrol.The city's arms show a bird's-eye view of the Inn Bridge, a design used since 1267. The route over the Brenner Pass was then a major transport and communications link between the north and the south of Europe, and the easiest route across the Alps. It was part of the Via Imperii, a medieval imperial road under special protection of the king. The revenues generated by serving as a transit station on this route enabled the city to flourish.


El Puente (Maya site)

  1995 El Puente Archaeological Park stamp


El Puente, or the Parque Arqueológico El Puente ("El Puente Archaeological Park"), is a Maya archaeological site in the department of Copán in Honduras. Once an independent Maya city, the city of El Puente became a tributary to the nearby city of Copán between the 6th and 9th centuries AD. The site contains more than 200 structures that include tombs, religious structures, and living quarters, but only a few have been excavated, including a large Maya step pyramid.


El Puente is located in the Florida Valley in the municipality of La Jigua, 11 kilometers to the north of the Honduran town of La Entrada. The site is 2 kilometers north of the confluence of the Chamelecón and Chinamito Rivers. El Puente is 20 kilometers east of the El Paraíso archaeological site. The site is located within the Southern Maya area on the southeastern periphery of Mesoamerica, and it was situated on the frontier between Maya and non-Maya peoples.


The site was first described by Jens Yde in 1935. He mapped the site but did not carry out any excavations. The site received a Cultural Heritage of the Nation designation by executive decree in March 1989. The La Entrada Archaeological Project (PALE – from Proyecto Arqueológico La Entrada in Spanish) started excavations at El Puente in 1991 with the intention of creating the second archaeological park in the country, after Copán. The Parque Arqueológico El Puente opened on 20 January 1994 and includes a visitor centre, site museum and administrative offices. El Puente appears to have been first settled around the middle of the 6th century AD, in the Early Classic period, fairly late in the Mesoamerican timescale and occupation at the site did not last very long. Architectural and ceramic similarities with Copán suggest that El Puente was founded by that city to control the crossroads of two trade routes that met in the valley. The site was a regional centre during the Late Classic period when it remained closely allied with the great city of Copán.


After the collapse of Copán in the Terminal Classic (between AD 850–950), the La Entrada region suffered politically with local elites losing prestige and territory. However, unlike at Copán, there does not seem to have been overuse of local resources and El Puente appears to have received immigrants from Copán during the Late Classic.

Bridge, California

Bridge is a former settlement in Fresno CountyCalifornia. It was located on the San Joaquin River west-southeast of El Prado. The place was named for Lanes Bridge, which straddled the San Joaquin River at the point. A post office operated at Bridge from 1902 to 1907 (The author has not yet collected “Bridge” postmark).

References:

This philatelic article is prepared using information available at following web sites namely;

https://www.schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/services/places/ort-0356.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte,_Campania

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Tresa

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_(disambiguation)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridges_(disambiguation)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_(ward)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge,_California

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge,_Kent

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Puente_(Maya_site)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brugg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruges

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeebrugge

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Zeebrugge

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeebrugge_Raid

https://www.britannica.com/place/Brugge

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Br%C3%BCcken,_Kusel

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruck,_Upper_Bavaria

https://www.britannica.com/place/Bruck

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zweibr%C3%BCcken

Acknowledgment: This philatelic article is prepared with no commercial motive. Just to spread knowledge of philately only. All philatelic images are from author’s personal collection except mentioned. All photo images are taken from their respective articles for illustration purpose only with due credit to their respective photographers. The author thankfully acknowledges all sources of information and references.

- Ilyas Patel : email : iap.patel@gmail.com


For Contributors - Guidelines for the articles


1.         The article should be of maximum 10 pages(A4 size) including images in MS word                               only. Long articles,if accepted will be published in parts

2.         Do not Format your article. Like no text wrapping, no caption on the images. Simply insert the images where required. 

4.         There should be No Hyperlinks in the text. Use only where ever it is  necessary.

5.         Images should be clear and sharp. Blurred images will be deleted.

6.         The article will be published as per the availability of the required space.

7. Regarding the selection and size of the images editor’s decision will be final.

8. "Limited, good  and selective articles published at least one year before elsewhere can be entertained for publication but strictly subject to acceptance by editor "

New issues from other Countries

Armenia

10 July 2020 : Napolean Bonapart

On July 10th, 2020, a souvenir sheet with one stamp dedicated to the theme “Napoleon Bonaparte” is put into circulation.


The postage stamp of the souvenir sheet depicts a French Emperor, political figure and commander Napoleon Bonaparte.

The souvenir sheet depicts the Abdication of Napoleon Bonaparte, which is kept in the Museum of Literaure and Art named after Yeghishe Charents in Yerevan.

Azerbaijan

28 July 2020 : EUROPA 2020 ( Postal Routes)




Greece


23 July 2020 : Euromed 2020 - Traditional Gastronomy in the Mediterranean



Ireland

16 July 2020 : Europa 2020 ( Ancient Postal Route }

United Nations

11 August 2020 :  Help Stop the Spread of COVID-19



 

The stamps represent six key public health messages by UN and WHO to help stop the spread of COVID-19, namely Personal Hygiene; Myth-Busting; Physical Distance; Spread Kindness; Know the Symptoms; and Solidarity. UNPA is issuing these stamps to support the COVID Solidarity Response Fund organized by WHO. A surcharge of 50 cents for the New York denominations, CHF 0,50 for the Geneva values and € 0,50 for the Vienna values has been added to each stamp. These surplus funds will go directly to supporting COVID suppression efforts.

Philatelic Library

The complete guide to Stamps & Stamp Collecting by Dr James Mackay



Acknowledgment

- Ananthapuri Stamp Bulletin August 2020 issue edited by Mohanchandran Nair

- Judaica Thematic Society (UK)  August 2020 Newsletter edited by Gary Goodman email - judaicathematicsociety@talktalk.net
-The Hyderabad Philatelist July 2020 issue edited by Prakash Agrawal 

-The Hyderabad Hobby Magazine Julyy 2020 issue edited by Prakash Agrawal 

- Deccan Philatelist Vol 20 No 2 2020

- Vadophil Jan - Apr 2020 issue edited by Prashant Pandya & Timir Shah

Bogs & Websites


Philatelic Congress of India

Indian Philately Digest

       Stamps of India

Rainbow Stamp News

Se-tenant Stamps of India

Flags & Stamps

Europa stamps

        Phila Mirror

       International Stamp News

       Welcome to Indian Philately

Philatelic Clubs & Societies  

Ananthapuri Philatelic Association, Thiruvanthapuram

Baroda Philatelic Society -  http://www.vadophil.org/

Chandigarh Philatelic Club

Deccan Philatelic Society – Pune, Maharashtra

Eastern India Philatelists’ Association -http://www.filacapsule.blogspot.com/

The Hyderabad  Philatelic and Hobbies Society

India Study Circle -  http://www.indiastudycircle.org/

Indian Thematic Society, Ludhiana -http://indianthematicstamps.webs.com/

Ludhiana Philatelic Club

Numismatic & Philatelic Association of Vellore Fort 

http://numismaticphilavellore.site40.net/index.htm

Philatelic Congress of India - http://www.philateliccongressofindia.com/

Philatelic Society of Rajasthan, Jaipur

Philatelic Society of India , Mumbai : http://www.psi1897.com/
Orissa Philatelic Association, Mail id-: 
orissaphilatelic@gmail.com

Rainbow Stamp Club -http://rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com/

Rajkot Philatelic Society – Rajkot, Gujarat

Gujarat Philatelic Association - Ahmedabad

South India Philatelists Association -http://www.sipa.org.in/

The Army Philatelic Society, Pune

Stamps of India – http://www.stampsofindia.com

RAINBOW STAMP CLUB

This is a blog of e-Stamp Club www.rainbowstampclub.blogspot.com . The idea of this blog is to extend philatelic fraternity in all corners of the world. Readers may write about themselves with their collecting interests and share new ideas with other philatelists.  New Post on recent issues, news on stamp activities and Contribution by members are published every day on this blog. Readers may also express their views on any philatelic matter which will be published under Club News at Rainbow Stamp Cub Blog. Philatelic Clubs and Societies may also send brief write ups. Readers may send reports on new issues, special covers, cancellations & philatelic activities of their area for inclusion in this Blog. - Editor

Current Philatelic Magazines – Newsletters

-VADOPHIL, Editor - Prashant Pandya &TimirShah and published by Baroda Philatelic Society, Vadodara. Website -http://www.vadophil.org/ 

-ITS Stamp News - Quarterly - Editor: Suraj Jaitly Publisher: Indian Thematic Society website - 
http://itsstampnews.blogspot.com/ 

-Ananthpuri Stamp Bulletin - Monthly e -stamp bulletin of Anathapuri Philatelic Association, Thiruvanthapuram 

-Journal of the Army Philatelic Society : Editor – Col Jayanta Dutta 

-India Post – Quarterly Journal of the India Study Circle publishes original articles submitted by members of ISC. 

-Deccan Philatelist from Deccan Philatelic Society, Pune. edited by Col Jayanta Dutta 

-The Hyderabad Philatelist from Hyderabad Philatelic and Hobbies Society Editor – Prakash Agrawal 

-SIPA Bulletin issued by South India Philatelists’ Association 

Courtesy - News and Image Resource to this issue R Suresh –Bangalore; Philately Wolfgang  Beyer, Germany; Timir Shah- Vadodara, Sushil Mehra & Jagannath Mani – Bangalore ; Philately Promoter, Whatsapp Group

Address for communication :

Jeevan Jyoti,  c / o Mr. Ajay Srivastav, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun – 248002. India  

E-mail –    j.jyoti9@gmail.com

A Request to Readers & Contributors –

·         Please do not send the text in scan form or PDF. Send your write ups in MS Word only.

 

·         Last date for receiving articles/ News /write ups – 25th of every month. 

 

·          For articles :  Kindly send images in jpg compressed form and  text in MS Word only  Please do not use  any formatting and  text wrapping in the article.  Simply put the images under text where required. * 

 

·         If you like this issue please forward it to your friends and help in promoting philately.

·         Please do not send forwarded messages for promotional section if you want to give any information for promotion please write personally with brief write up. As this newsletter is not used for any commercial purpose in any manner.


Attention – Please do not send text or image for publication in PDF. 

Any material from this newsletter may be reproduced only with the written permission from the editor. 

Happy Collecting ……….

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Rainbow Stamp News is edited and published monthly by Jeevan Jyoti from Dehradun    (Uttarakhand ) India for free circulation among philatelists.

 

 


Recent Awards

AMRITPEX 2023 - Silver

CAPE TOWN 2022 - Silver

LONDON 2022 - Silver


INPEX 2019, Mumbai - Silver

CHINA-2019, World Stamp Exhibition, Wuhan - Bronze

INPEX 2017, Mumbai - Large Silver

CHINA 2016 - Bronze

TAIPEI 2015 - Bronze

CG International Philatelic Promotion Award 2014, Germany - ( 4th Position)

INPEX 2013, Mumbai - Vermeil

SHARJAH 2012, Sharjah ( UAE ) - Silver Bronze

IPHLA 2012, Mainz - Germany : Bronze

I
NDIPEX 2011 - World Stamp Exhibition, New Delhi - Bronze

JOBURG 2010 - 26th Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Johannesburg - Silver Bronze

PORTUGAL 2010 - World Stamp Exhibition, Lisbon - Bronze

Hong Kong 2009 -23rd Asian International Stamp Exhibition, Hong Kong - Silver Bronze

About Me

My photo
Participated in different philatelic exhibitions Wrote for philately column in The Pioneer and worked as sub-editor for U-Phil Times published from United Philatelists, Kanpur.Did Schooling from Kanpur Vidya Mandir and Post Graduation in Botany from A.N.D. College Kanpur.

Disclaimer

The views expressed in the articles published on Rainbow Stamp News Blog are solely those of the authors and contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Blog Owner. The Readers are requested to contact author or the contributor of the particular article if they have any objection or do not agree with the views expressed in the article . Please do not ask the Blog Owner to delete or change any Post published on this blog.The Post will be removed only after strong recommendation of the original author / contributor after proper verification .

All contents provided on this blog is for information only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this blog or found by following any link on this blog. The owner will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information nor for the availability of this information. The owner will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages from the display or use of this information.

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