Cats on Faroe Islands' stamps

The Faroes Post has issued two stamps dedicated to domestic cats. Cats have lived around people for many thousands of years, and are the world's most popular pets. They're also the most popular pets on the Faroes. One reason that cats are so popular is that they fit in readily with a modern lifestyle. Cats don't need much care, can be left on their own, and pretty much look after themselves. A cat sat on the window sill watching something or other with its large almond-shaped eyes for hours at a time is a familiar image.

The Faroese domestic cat is a small animal that is little different to wild cats. It's happiest when eating, sleeping and playing. It can stand high temperatures, loves the sun and the night and is clean and agile, which it is why it is said that it always lands on its feet. The domestic cat is a mixed race. Its hair is short and often features several patterns and colors - normally including white. The most common coloration is black and white, although tabby cats and brown cats are also common. Plus, they can be anything from one color to many or be striped. The majority of pure-bred cats on the Faroes are long-haired, such as the Norwegian Forest Cat, Birman, Maine Coon and Persian.

150th Anniversary of Mariehamn, Russia-Aland joint issue

In 2011, the joint launch of the Russian Federation and the Aland Islands is dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the foundation of Mariehamn - the capital of the Aland Islands. It's the smallest of all the Scandinavian capitals, but the third largest port in Finland. It is home to more than half of the total population of the archipelago.

The history of Mariehamn (translated from Swedish - "Maria's Harbour") is connected to the Crimean War, which determined the fate of Aland as demilitarized islands. After the war, the local inhabitants turned to Alexander II a petition about the foundation on the main island of a port city, which was suggested to call in honor of the Emperor's wife Maria Alexandrovna. Tsar's manifesto from February 4, 1859 permitted the foundation of Mariehamn, a diploma signed on Feb. 20, 1861 establishes the status of the city.

The stamp depicts the map of Mariehamn and the portrait of Empress Maria Alexandrovna (1857) painted by F. Winterhalter from the Hermitage Museum collection.

Queen Elizabeth II Lifetime of Service Issue by Gibraltar Post

Gibraltar celebrates 60 years of the reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with a remarkable issue. The stamps and products depict Her Majesty and HRH Prince Philip through the decades in photo album form representing the royal couple from their earliest years together to the present day.

Of note is a large diamond-shaped miniature sheet containing 6 stamps and two labels with its custom-made, oversize FDC and pack.

100th International Women's Day celebration on the stamp of Faroe Islands

The Post of Faroe Islands has issued a stamp celebrating the centenary of the International Women's Day.

In 1911, the first International Women's Day was celebrated in four countries, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland and Germany. It was on the 19th March and the demands were female voting rights, improvement of women's working conditions - and rights to be hired as public servants. In the following years the day was celebrated on different dates, but in 1921 they decided on the 8th March. In the twenties and thirties the day was mostly celebrated as a socialist Women's Day, and after World War II it fell more or less into oblivion.

The picture on the stamp depicts the most influential persons in the women's rights movements - Emmeline Pankhurst and Clara Zetkin.

Emmeline Pankhurst is known for her militant methods of struggle, such as interrupting political rallies, smashing windows or hunger strike. She is shown while her arrest at a demonstration at Buckhingham Palace in 1914.

Clara Zetkin, active on the feminist front, became head of the Social Democratic Party's women's office. In 1910 she was elected as chairperson of the International Socialist Women's Association, and it was in this capacity that she, at a woman's Congress in Copenhagen the same year, called for the introduction of the International Women's Day.

Centenary of the First Airmail Connection - Stamp From France

On 19 February, 2011, the French Post issued a stamp in honor of Henri Pequet, who transported 100 years ago the first airmail.

The history of airmail began in 1911 when the Frenchman Henri Pequet, then aged 23, transported by air a mail to India. On February 18, 1911 the first flight carrying official mail aboard a biplane Hommer-Sommer took place. It took place during the Exposition of the United Provinces in Allahabad, India and lasted 27 minutes. It carried about 6,000 letters and postcards to Naini railway station from where they were transported by railway. On October 15, 1913, the first official airmail flight took place in France.

On the stamp behind the portrait of Pequet, evocations of India (the tomb of Prince Khusrau and window) are transforming into folds and letters.

Air Force joins with Australia Post to celebrate aviation stamp issue

The sky's the limit for military aviation enthusiasts and stamp collectors, with Australia Post's Air Force Aviation commemorative stamp issue.

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Mark Binksin, AO, said this was a very timely partnership for Air Force, as it celebrated its 90th birthday this year with the theme tradition, innovation, evolution.

"It is a fitting tribute to the crews and support personnel of the recently retired F-111, as they retrain for our future capability in our new platforms," Air Marshal Binskin said.

Australia Post Philatelic Manager Michael Zsolt said, "The F-111 'Pig' was, for the general public, the most identifiable RAAF aircraft for many years and so an obvious choice for this stamp issue".

"As well as indicating the changing of the guard from F-111s to Super Hornets, this stamp issue represents a range of aircraft functions in the RAAF," Mr Zsolt said.

New Zealand-based Australian illustrator Jamie Tufrey was commissioned to illustrate the stamp issue and has skillfully drawn attention to the speed, purpose and technical specifics of the aircraft.

The four Air Force Aviation stamps feature the F-111 (60 cents), the F/A-18F Super Hornet (60 cents), the AEW&C Wedgetail ($1.20) and the C-17 Globemaster III ($3.00).

Jersey - Women of Achievement II

On 8th March 2011, Jersey Post will issue four stamps to commemorate 100 years since Marie Curie was awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in recognition of her work with radioactivity.

Marie Curie Cancer Care is named after the scientist herself and more information about the voluntary organisation is available at mariecurie.org.uk.

The set of stamps celebrates the life and extraordinary achievements of this remarkable woman and others whose success and accomplishments are internationally recognised.

Canada Post seeking votes on finalists for fundraiser

For the first time, Canadians are being asked to use their judgment and artistic flair to vote on a design for a new postage stamp, all in an effort to raise awareness and funds for mental illness.

For the next month, Canadians will be able to vote for their favourite design from a group of five stamps that have been chosen as finalists. The winner will become the 2011 Mental Health stamp.

"It's a great opportunity to have people look at them and have people learn about the issue," Canada Post spokeswoman Cindy Daoust said.

Canada Post decided to focus on mental illness starting in 2008 and created the Canada Post Foundation for Mental Health. Each year a mental health stamp has been created, and the sale of those stamps from 2008 to 2010 raised nearly $1 million for the foundation.

One dollar from each of the booklets of stamps sold went toward the foundation.

Canadians sent in more than 300 submissions between the launch of the competition in November and Jan. 10. The individual whose design was the most popular online won an iPad and a spot as one of the 20 semifinalists.

During the first phase of the competition, the site received a half-million hits as people looked at the designs and voted.

A panel of judges then selected another 19 submissions.

The Stamp Advisory Committee, a national group that usually chooses stamps, selected the top five designs. The designers were from Toronto, London and Courtice, Ont. and Terrebonne, Que.

"The designs are quite stunning," Daoust said.

"They each tell a story about mental illness. They tell the stories of how important it is to speak about this, and anytime we're talking about it, we're helping to reduce the stigma."

Daoust said the foundation was created with the aim of raising money for community groups helping people with mental illness and reducing the stigma.

"While funding is very important ... we also know stigma is the No. 1 reason people don't ask for that help," she said, adding the fact that the mental health stamp would be viewed by many would help in that effort.

Canadians have until midnight March 14 to vote for their favourite designs. They can cast one vote per day for each design.

To view the five designs and vote, visit the website deliverhope.ca. The winner will be announced in April.

Stamp of Approval for American Chamber 50th

On 3 February, 2011, An Post issued a stamp to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland.

American Chamber of Commerce, Ireland Chief Executive, Joanne Richardson and An Post CEO Donal Connell unveiled the new 55c stamp at the striking Georgian hall door of the Chamber's Dublin headquarters at Wilton Place, which is shown framing Irish and American flags on the new stamp.

Speaking at the event, Donal Connell congratulated the Board and membership of the American Chamber on their 50th anniversary. "This stamp is a fitting tribute to the American Chamber's work as a well-respected, well-informed and vocal representative for US companies based here in Ireland. US companies have contributed significantly to Ireland's economic development over the last five decades. In these difficult economic times, it is up to all of us involved in business to do everything possible to support economic recovery and a return to prosperity here in Ireland, across Europe and the US," he added.

Welcoming the new stamp, Joanne Richardson said "it is a tremendous honour that An Post has chosen to celebrate with us, in our Golden Jubilee year, with this special tribute. This stamp is recognition of the success of our member companies in winning jobs and investment for Ireland and highlights the critical role that we are playing in Ireland's economic survival and growth into the future. Today 600 US companies in Ireland have invested $165 billion and employ over 100,000 people. We are proud to support this positive relationship with the United States and look forward with optimism to the next 50 years."

The American Chamber of Commerce Ireland was established in January 1961 with the mission to be the collective voice for US business in Ireland. Over its fifty years the Chamber has played host to a number of famous faces, including US State Governors and US President Ronald Regan.

Pets – South Georgia

During the operation of whaling stations between 1904 and 1965, a variety of animals were brought to South Georgia. Two, the brown rat and house mouse, were introduced accidentally.
Most were brought to the island to provide fresh food. These included reindeer, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens, geese and even pigeons. Some were allowed to roam free but only reindeer have thrived in the wild. A few horses were used for haulage and there was an attempt at Grytviken to breed fur foxes for their pelts. At Prince Olav Harbour, carrier pigeons conveyed messages from whale-catcher boats about their arrival with whales for processing in the factory.

45p
This vervet monkey from Africa may have been bought to South Georgia on a ship coming from Cape Town. It was a pet of the doctor at the Husvik whaling station in 1914. It wore a harness and was taken for walks on a lead.

60p
Anne-Marie Sørlle, daughter of the manager of the Stromness whaling station, with a litter of puppies. She was allowed to keep one as a pet because there were no other children on South Georgia for her to play with.

70p
Two whalers show off their pets in their room at Grytviken around 1925. The man on the right has a fox which is being restrained by a collar and chain. This is a unique record of a fox being kept as a pet on the island. It is probably a grey fox or grey zorro, which could have been acquired in a South American port.

95p
Nan Brown ran a ‘penguin rehabilitation centre’ at King Edward Point to rescue birds fouled with heavy fuel oil. After cleaning they were kept in a pen to recover. One of the gentoo penguins became a pet when it refused to leave after being released. Stugie (an anagram of Gutsie) had a damaged wing and could not fend for itself. It accompanied Nan around the settlement and visited the house daily but, not being house-trained, it was not allowed to stay inside for long. It would follow her to the jetty where she caught fish to feed its prodigious appetite.

£1.15
The inappropriately named Mrs Chippy is the most famous of Antarctic cats. He was the pet of ‘Chippy’ McNish, the carpenter on Shackleton’s Endurance expedition, and perished on the ice after the ship had been crushed.

Semi-wild cats were common at the whaling stations. They were mostly dependent on human habitation, especially in winter, and were useful in helping keep down the rats that infested the buildings. Cats died out at the whaling stations soon after they were abandoned in the 1960s but some survived at the King Edward Point settlement until 1980.

£1.20
Sir Ernest Shackleton baths Query aboard Quest on the way to South Georgia in 1922. The German shepherd pup had been presented to him as a mascot when the ship visited Plymouth. Query was lost overboard during the expedition.

Dogs, including sledge dogs left by passing expeditions, were a common sight around the whaling stations. Most were under the control of their owners but a few lived and bred wild. The last dog on South Georgia died in 1974.

Title: Pets – South Georgia
Date of Issue: 15 February 2011

Pond Life – Singapore

Singapore post issued a definitive stamps of pond life featuring animals such as common Tilapia, pond wolf spider, water strider and water scorpion.
A pond is and inland body of standing water, either natural or man-made, which is smaller than a lake. it undergoes marked changes as time passes, and most obvious changes that one will notice is that one form of plant follows or succeeds another, and the different life forms that make the pond a lively and busy place.

Title: Pond Life – Singapore
Date of Issue: 16 February 2011

International Children Festival in Sibenik

Croatian post issued a stamp dedicated to the International Children’s Festival in Šibenik, held for the first time in1958, which became an important multimedia cultural manifestation with international character and a kind of review of the best production for children, as well as the best creations by children themselves.

A stimulus for play, an invocation of joy! International Children’s Festival in Šibenik has reached half-a-century of age and has entered into its 51st year of existence! Founded in 1958, in its beginnings it was organised randomly– in the way children usually do things – sometimes yes and sometimes no! It kept changing its name (First Festival of the Child, Festival of the Child Šibenik, Yugoslav Child Festival, International Child Festival), testing concepts, wandering and inquiring all around with the goal to show to anyone – during its 15 days of duration, from the middle of June to the beginning of July – all the good and valuable in productions for children and creations by children themselves.

In which way the festival ran all these years, and what was actually happening, tell us monographies, movie documents, radio and television programs, various chronicles, notices, reviews, bulletins… presenting compliments and thanks to all those who supported and maintained the festival with their wits, joy, all kinds of knowledge and benevolence, promoting Šibenik into a town of play, opposing to any kind of impotence and ill-temper. To the children of Šibenik the Festival brings twofold joy: the end of a school year marks the beginning of the Festival and it is hardly awaited since it is a kind of monopoly on play, that colours, babbles and sets the town loose, turning it into a site for any kind of mystery and opportunity, liberating it from the pose and phrase, from ill-temper and anxiety.

For, it jumps, sings, dances, acts, juggles, paints, draws, makes all what the children do in kindergartens, first class, eight class end even those in higher classes and older. The Festival days are like an interspace, that (broke free from the usual course of events, an international children’s interspace visited by unusual living beings “of sparkling eyes, rosy cheeks, mouth always ready for laughter”, as already some time ago noticed and written down for his Hobbits, by the great master Tolkien! This is the time of festivity and wonder, invaded from all continents, in all thinkable casts and directions, by fairy-tales, fables, dolls, plays, shadows and masks, music, songs, dance… Magicians, witches, Caesars, chimney-sweepers, pucks, dragons, kings, knights, dwarfs, old witches, princesses, musketeers, queens, giants, beggars, captains… all flow in. Oh, what kind of clothes, costumes!

Title: International Children Festival in Sibenik
Date of Issue: 14 February 2011

Italian Carnival Postage Stamp

Traditionally in the end of winter the Italian Post issues a stamp dedicated to the famous Italian Carnivals. This year there's no exception. The stamp is dedicated to the Historic Carnival taking part in Ivrea.

The Historic Carnival of Ivrea is mostly known for its Battle of the Oranges, allegory of struggle for freedom. It is valued as one of the most ancient carnivals in the world: during the year 1000 a miller's wife killed the tyrant of the city, King Arduino; from that episode began a civil war between the oppressed people and the king's supporters, finally won by people, and until now every year the citizens remember their liberation with the Battle of the Oranges. Here, teams of "Aranceri" by foot shoot oranges representing ancient arrows and stones against Aranceri on carts, representing Arduino's allies.

The stamp depicts the scene of Battle of the oranges, the most spectacular moment of the Carnival, in the background there is the Communal Palace in Vittorio Emanuele Square, in the upper right corner stands the figure of a miller's wife, famous character and symbol of the carnival event.

Uruguay stamp to honor Rabindranath Tagore

Correo Uruguayo has issued a stamp commemorating Rabindranath Tagore's 150th birth anniversary.

Rabindanath Tagore (1861-1941) was a famous Bengali poet, novelist, musician, painter and playwright who reshaped Bengali literature and music.

As author of Gitanjali and its "profoundly sensitive, fresh and beautiful verse", he was the first non-European who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913. His poetry in translation was viewed as spiritual, and this together with his mesmerizing persona gave him a prophet-like aura in the west. His "elegant prose and magical poetry" still remain largely unknown outside the confines of Bengal.

The stamp, issued also to commemorate the INDIPEX 2011 in New Delhi, illustrates the portrait of Rabindranath Tagore, the flags of Uruguay and India and the logo of INDIPEX 2011.

New Irish St. Patrick's Day Postage Stamp

On 17 February, 2011, An Post issued a new stamp to commemorate St Patrick's Day.

This year's stamp is based on a stone carving of St Patrick at the entrance to the spire of the chapel at St Patrick's College Maynooth, which was founded in 1795 but due to a lack of funding the chapel was not built until 1891. The architect was J.J. McCarthy, Professor of Architecture of the Catholic University.

The college was founded as a seminary for the education of priests as prior to this it had not been possible to educate Catholic priests in Ireland. In 1795 a petition to Parliament was successful and 'An Act for the better education of persons professing the Popish or Roman Catholic religion' was passed, and a modest grant was provided to establish a college. Over 11,000 priests have been ordained from St Patrick's College, and they have served in every parish in Ireland and throughout the world.

The first day cover features green shamrock, legend has it that St Patrick used shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, whereby each petal on the clover represents an entity of God. The top petal is God and the other two represent Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

The stamp and first day cover were designed by Steve Simpson.

EU Postage Stamps by Hungary Post

Magyar Posta (Hungary Post) has issued a stamp to mark the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The main motif of the stamp is a detail of the official logo of the presidency, the abbreviation "eu" in the Hungarian tricolour (suggesting handwriting), and the inscription "Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union".

The stamps are specially arranged by point reflection in sheets of 36. The stamps in each line are turned through 90° or 180°, or remain in the same position.

On the left and right edges of the square sheet of stamps the national colours continue from one stamp onto the border, and next to this is the inscription "Magyar Posta, the official carrier of the Hungarian EU presidency's mail" together with the logo. The upper border of the composition is supplemented by a barcode and on the bottom edge there is only the logo and tricolour continuing onto the border.

The motifs of the stamp design are repeated on the first day cover and postmark.

Sergio Leone Location Features On New Stamp

Spanish postal operator has issued a stamp dedicated to Almeria Railway Station which as well as being a building of cultural interest, also featured in the 1971 (157 min) Sergio Leone film "Duck you sucker" or by its alternative film title - "Fistful of dynamite".

Officially opened in 1895, Almeria station was designed by a French architect who was said to have worked for Gustave Eiffel. 54 meters long, the central part of the station is made of iron and glass. Whilst recognised as a National Monument, Almeria railway station is now disused and there are calls for it to be restored and turned into a museum. No decision has been made.

The new stamp is the 20th so far in an architectural series issued by Correos, celebrating important historical buildings throughout Spain. It is priced at 0.35 Euros.

Extraordinary Valentine's Day Postage Stamps by Taiwan

Young people in Taiwan now widely celebrate western Valentine's Day. Looking to attract the younger generations to stamp collecting as well as to encourage letter writing, Chunghwa Post has released another set of two Valentine's Day stamps, which feature messages of love.

The first in this series of stamp sets was issued on February 6, 2007.

The concept behind the design of this set of stamps is the code of true love, which Chunghwa Post first ever makes use of QR code (quick response code) technology. QR code can store more information than regular barcode. To decode the hidden message, users only have to take a picture of the QR code with a mobile phone camera that can take images of over 300,000 pixels, and the decode software in the phone will read the message and display it on the screen.

The design of the stamp features a heart formed by a row of perforations, as well as images of roses, presents, hearts, and the word "LOVE" created from pixels. Through the interaction between the sender and the receiver, these stamps convey love and heighten the romantic atmosphere of Valentine's Day. The message of the code is "Happy Valentine's Day" for the NT$5 stamp and "I Love You" for the NT$25 stamp.

Digital TV stamp from New Caledonia

The New Caledonian Post is issuing a stamp dedicated to the Digital Terrestrial Television spreading in New Caledonia.

Since November 30, 2010, analog television in New Caledonia has given way to digital technology, incorporating sound and images in high definition.

Today most of the Caledonians have access not only to the two usual channels (Tempo and RFO Nouvelle-Caledonie), but a bunch of 8 channels: France 2, France 3, France 4, France 5, France O, Arte, France 24 and Nouvelle-Caledonie 1ere proposing a new schedule and orientating towards the local distribution of audiovisual products.

Europa 2011 – Jersey

Jersey Post issued its Europa 2011 stamp with theme, entitled ‘Forests’, by featuring a set of stamps depicting foliages of various trees to be found in Jersey.
Being an island of some 45 square miles, Jersey is not home to any forests as such. We do, however, have woodland in scattered locations, with a rich variety of trees and vegetation for us to enjoy and, who better to ask for a selection of woodland trees to feature on our stamps than local experts, Jersey Trees for Life.

Title: Europa 2011 – Jersey
Date of Issue: 8 February 2011

The Queen and Prince Philip

The celebrations of sixty glorious years of the reign of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II with the first of three landmark stamp issued to honor this great achievement. The stamps follows Her Majesty and HRH Prince Philip through the decades in photo album form representing the royal couple from their earliest years together to the present day.

Title: The Queen and Prince Philip
Date of Issue: 6 February 2011

Legendary Heroines of India

India Post issued a set of 6 stamps and a Miniature Sheet to honor the Legendary heroines of Indian cinema.

Devika Rani
The first lady of Hindi cinema, Devika Rani was the star and late manager of Bombay Talkies. Grand niece of Rabindranath Tagore, Devika Rani was one of the greatest actresses of the black and white era.

Devika Rani got the first taste of Indian Cinema through her husband Himanshu Rai, whom she first met when he approached her for the construction of a huge set for his first production – ‘Light of Asia’. After marriage, they left for Germany and once there, Rai joined hands with Universal Films AG and made ‘A Throw of Dice’.

It was in 1933 that Himanshu Rai signed Devika Rani for her first film ‘Karma’ which made her an actress of great acclaim. After a couple of years, Rai and Devika Rani set up the famous Bombay Talkies Studio, and she became the studio’s first heroine with Jawani ki Hawa, where she starred opposite Ashok Kumar. The two of them starred in a series of films starting with Jeevan Naiya (1936) but it was Achut Kanya (1936), which capitulated Devika Rani and Ashok Kumar to big time fame.

Kanan Devi
The actress and singer, started with the name Kananbala. Debuting as child actress in Joydev; she worked under contract with Radha Films where she acted in Jyotish Banerjee Films. P.C.Barua was unable to obtain her for the role of Paro in ‘Devdas’ (1935) but she played the lead in his next film, Mukti, which made her a star and launched her long association with New Theatres.

Meena Kumari
She was born on August 1, 1932 as Mahjabeen Bano to Ali Baksh and Iqbal Begum. The actress has two elder sisters: Khursheed and Madhu. After her birth she was left at the Muslim orphanage as her parents could not pay the fees to the doctor. Her father was also interested in music, poetry and was a part of Parsi theater. Meenas mother’s actual name was Prabhwati Devi, a Hindu girl who converted to Islam after marriage and changed her name to Iqbal Begum, a dancer and stage actress.

The beautiful Mehejabeen, stepped into the world of grease and glamour from the tender age of six. Her first film as a child artist was Vijay Bhatt’s ‘Leather Face’ (1939). She then metamorphasised into a beautiful heroine and did some heartrenching movies like ‘Baiju Bawra’ (1954), ‘Parineeta’ (1955), ‘Ek Hi Raasta’, ‘Sharda’ (1957), ‘Aarti’ (1963) and ‘Kaajal’ (1966).

Nutan
She was an Indian actress, who appeared in several successful Hindi movies of the 50s and 60s. Highly regarded for her acting abilities, Nutan was recognised as an accomplished dramatic actress, and her performances often received praises and accolades. She started her career as actress as a fourteen-year-old in Hamari Beti (1950). This film was produced by her mother, Shobhana. In 1952 she was the winner of Miss India.

Savithri
She was an Indian actress, director and producer. She had appeared in Telgu, Tamil, and Hindi languages. She was known for her liveliness and captivating performance and is still treated as the benchmark for acting in movies. She learned music and Indian classical dance under Sista Purnayya Sasthri. She performed stage shows during her childhood. She acted in 318 films in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Hindi languages, with ten to fifteen movies released per year.

Leela Naidu
She was an Indian actress who starred in a small number of Hindi and English films.Born to an Irish mother and an Indian father. Was a Femina Miss India. Quit movies to marry (and later divorce) hotelier Tilakraj Oberoi. She later married Goan poet Dom Moraes, who was her childhood sweetheart. Vogue named her as one of most beautiful women in the world, along with Maharani Gayatri Devi. Became an icon for women’s liberation in India after her non-orthodox role with Sunil Dutt in “Yeh raastae hain pyar kae”.

Title: Legendary Heroines of India
Date of Issue: 13 February 2011
Country: India
Denominations: 500p x 6

Pakistan 6th Population and Housing Census

6^Th Population And Housing Census-2011 Commemorative Postage Stamp February 10, 2011:- Population Census Organization an attached department of the Statistics Division conducts the Population and Housing Census in the country after 10 years and provide reliable, fair, and timely data for development programmes and its use by the general public, planners, researchers, data relates users as all well as stakeholders. This data is also used for delineation of National and Provincial Assemblies, distribution of national resources among provinces through National Finance Commission (NFC) Awards as well as fixing of quota of posts in Federal Government Departments. Conducting the Population and Housing Census in the country is constitutional requirement of the Pakistan and it is a very important activity. Population and Housing Census is a stock taking of human resources of a country and their living condition at one point of time. Census provides basic data on demographic, social and economic variables about each person and each housing unit. The census data serves as bench mark for all socio-economic development plans, administrative activities, demographic research and projection of population to meet future needs. Census is a Gigantic and Complex Operation carried out in the whole territory of Pakistan comprising of five provinces i.e Punjab, Sindh, Khyber PakhtunKhwa, Blaochistan and Gilgit Baltistan as well as special areas like Federally / Provincially Administrated Tribal Areas (FATA/PATA), Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). The Population census Organization has conducted five censuses in the country since its creation i.e in 1951, 1961, 1972, 1981 and the last census in 1998. The 6^th Population and Housing Census was scheduled in 2008 which was delayed due to insurgency, law and order situation in FATA and some parts of two provinces. Matter regarding conduct of census in the year 2009 and 2010 but it could not be conducted due to non availability of armed forces and devastating floods in the country.

2. The matter was again referred to the Council of Common Interests which in its meeting held on 8^th November, 2010 under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister of Pakistan has approved holding of 6^th Population and Housing Census in the country in two phase’s i.e House Listing Operation in March/April 2011 and Population and Housing Census in August/September, 2011. In this connection the Population Census Organization has undertaken the preparatory work as per activity calendar showing all aspects of census taking along with time frame fixed for each activity.

3. The Population Census Organization has developed Form-1 for house listing operation, Form-2 (short form) for main census and Form-2A (long form) will be used to obtain additional information on the field of education, migration, labour force, fertility, disability etc from sample households.

4. Draft tabulation plan showing the set of tables to be presented in the National, Provincial and District census report has been prepared.

5. The field staff for conducting the Housing Listing Operation comprising enumerators, supervisors, charge supervisors, charge superintends has been appointed through out the country. These staff has been drawn from the nation building Departments i.e Education, Local Government, Revenue Department etc. The training to these staff will be imparted by the experienced trainers to update them to achieve accurate and reliable results. After conducting house listing operation, the staff from the same departments will also be drawn for main census also they will be imparted training for conducting the Population and Housing Census.

6. In order to ensure complete coverage and for effective supervision, the entire country has been delimited into a four tire system i.e census district, census charges, census circle and census block. The maps of these areas have been prepared to be handed over to enumerators during the census operation. The moping work i.e updating of map of urban areas and rural areas, delimitation of census areas and their Geo-Coding etc have been completed through field visit. In this connection the Population Census Organization has established the GIS Lab at PCO Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, RCO/Multan and Muzaffarabad for digitizing of maps and their verification through satellite images (Google Earth).

7. An effective publicity plan has been prepared which will be launched through electronic and print media to create awareness among the masses about the importance of the census, to educate the people for their greater participation and to motivate the field staff to work with the dedication zeal and vigor.

8. Population Census Organization has decided to use modern technology to conduct the next census in a fair and transparent manner. Intelligence Character Recognition (ICR) technology for data entry/processing and GIS for dissemination of data will be used to achieve better results.

9. After Data Processing work, the census data will be tabulated and disseminated in the forms of reports at national, provincial and district level. The data users, planners, researchers and stakeholders etc. Population Census Organization has developed its own website which gives basic information about Population Census Organization and data of 1998 census. The website is updated regularly. (www.census.gov.pk)

To Commemorate 6^th Population and Housing Census-2011, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.10/= denomination on February 10, 2011.

Symbol of Love postage stamps from Thailand

Thailand Post has issued these postage stamps to welcome Valentine's Day. They feature images that serve as a "Symbol of Love". This year's Thailand stamps are different from those of previous years, which presented a variety of colorful roses. The images on the stamps of this year come from the participating of postage stamp lovers' votes.

New Germany stamps: World heritage Sites of UNESCO

The German Post has issued a set of two stamps illustrating two famous world heritage sites of UNESCO - Yakushi-ji Temple of Nara (Japan) and old town of Regensburg (Bavaria, Germany).

Yakushi-ji is one of the most famous imperial and ancient Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple is the headquarters of the Hosso school of Japanese Buddhism. The main object of veneration, Yakushi Nyorai, also named "The Medicine Buddha", was one of first Buddhist Deities to arrive in Japan from China in 680, and gives the temple its name. The chosen stamp's theme shows the main hall and the eastern and western pagodas of the Great Sermon Hall.

The Old Town of Regensburg was registered in 2006. The occasion was unique for Germany: Romanesque and Gothic buildings of Regensburg represented an authentic image of a single European trading city of the Middle Ages. The valley is dominated by the Gothic Old Town of Regensburg with the Cathedral of St. Peter. Other major landmark of the city is a stone bridge built in 1135-1146, a masterpiece of Roman engineering and a long time the only brick bridge crossing Danube. Another interesting finding is the Old Town Hall, one of the most important medieval, local secular buildings in Germany. The stamp illustrates St. Peter's Cathedral surrounded by medieval buildings.

V4 postage stamp by Slovak Post

The Slovak Post is issuing a stamp commemorating 20 years of the activity of V4 (Visegrad Group).

V4 is an informal grouping of four central European countries - the Czech Republic, the Republic of Hungary, the Republic of Poland and the Slovak Republic. The organization was created in 1989 by three central European countries with the aim of "returning" to Europe. On 15 February 1991, Czechoslovakia's President Vaclav Havel, Poland's President Lech Walesa and Hungary's Prime Minister Jozsef Antall signed the Visegrad Declaration. After the split of Czechoslovakia and the creation of independent Slovak and Czech Republics in 1993, the trilateral Visegrad cooperation was transformed to a V4 format.

The key objectives pursued by the V4 countries were accomplished with their successful socio-economic transformation, the deepening of regional cooperation and with their EU and NATO integration. For 20 years, regional cooperation of the V4 has successfully developed in the intersectoral field, coordination of foreign policy positions and pursuance of common interests within the EU and vis-a-vis third countries/regions. The activities of the V4 are based on presidency programs adopted by the Prime Ministers at Visegrad Group summits. The current presidency is held by Slovakia (1 July 2010 - 30 June 2011).

Ronald Reagan graces a 'forever' stamp

Politicos who wish that Ronald Reagan could stick around forever will get what they want. The US Postal Service began to honor that wish on Thursday, with a first-day-of-issue ceremony at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley.

The 40th president's image appears on the latest edition of the post office's "forever" stamp. Postal customers can buy it now for 44 cents and it'll cover the cost of first-class mail from here on out.

The stamp depicts the late president, who would have turned 100 this week, at his "Rancho de Cielo" in Santa Barbara.

Although the US Postal Service usually waits at least 10 years after someone has died to place him or her on a stamp, the quasi-governmental agency makes exceptions for American presidents. It's put Ronald Reagan's face on a stamp before - shortly after he died in 2004, and, by popular demand, on a later reissue of the same stamp.

150 anniversary of the Property Act

To celebrate the 150 anniversary of the Property Act (Ley Hipotecaria), a stamp is issued within the “Anniversaries” series depicting the official logo made on occasion of this commemoration.

The Property Act was passed on February 8 1861 under the reign of Elizabeth II and was the origin of the current real estate registry system. The new law was one of the milestones in the changing Spanish legal system, going from a situation of overlapping stratified rules to a scientific approach of regulations and a process of codifying laws.

The original legislation has been amended successively over its 150 year’s life existence during which many public institutions and organisms have been created. In 1861 the Land Registry (Registro de la Propiedad) was also created aiming at “the registration or endorsement of title deeds and other rights over real estate.”

The Registry has an official status and its main duty is to provide reliable information to individuals when drawing up a contract on the property registered. This Land Registry meets basically three purposes: to establish a solid basis for mortgage loans, to provide protection to owners of registered rights and to make real estate legal transactions swift.

The Cuerpo Nacional de Aspirantes a Registradores (national corps of contenders to become a recorder of deeds) was created during the reign of Alfonso XII. This corps is currently known as Registradores de la Propiedad (recorders of deeds) and are the followers of those who worked 150 years ago to serve the nation and the legal certainty of Spanish law. According to the Dean of the association of the recorders of deeds (Colegio de Registradores de la Propiedad), this anniversary is “a chance for educating in the importance of the recording function and to try to expand corporate relationships whilst contributing to the defense of ideas and values such as private property, legal certainty, the market unit, national associations or technological innovation”.

Title: 150 anniversary of the Property Act
Date of Issue: 8 February 2011
Country: Spain
Denominations: 0,65 €

INDIPEX 2011 – Program and Special covers

INDIPEX 2011 will have each day earmarked for celebrating themes such as science and technology, culture and heritage, youth and sports, environment and women’s issues. During Indipex 2011, 13 Special Covers are to be released on various themes. The detailed program is a s follows:

DAY 1 – Saturday, 12 th February 2011
PEACE & HARMONY DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 10:30 hrs to 11:30 hrs – Inauguration Ceremony – President visits the exhibition. Venue – Hamsadhwani
– 14:00 hrs to 14:30 hrs – Presentation function for Aerophilately stamps. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:00 hrs to 15:30 hrs – Release of Special Cover – ONGC. Venue – Hamsadhwani
– 15:30 hrs to 16:30 hrs – National Level Quiz Competition. Venue – Hamsadhwani
– 16:30 hrs to 17:00 hrs – Awards ceremony for the winners of National Level Quiz. Venue – Hamsadhwani
– 19:30 hrs to 20:30 hrs – Light and Sound Show. Venue – Old Fort

DAY 2 – Sunday, 13 th February 2011
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Gujarat Tourism. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:30 hrs to 16:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Western Union. Venue – Activity Area
– 19:00 hrs to 21:00 hrs – Stamp Release on Legendary Heroines of Indian Cinema. Venue – Imperial Hotel Lawns

DAY 3 – Monday, 14 th February 2011
YOUTH DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrsTime Schedule

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – SPMCIL. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:30 hrs to 16:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – St. Michael Group of Institutions. Venue – Activity Area

DAY 4 – Tuesday, 15 th February 2011
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – HCL. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:30 hrs to 16:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Sethu Educational Trust Institute of Technology. Venue – Activity Area
– 16:00 hrs to 16:30 hrs – Release of Special Cover – HP Venue – Activity Area

DAY 5 – Wednesday, 16 th February 2011
CULTURE & HERITAGE DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Incredible India. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:30 hrs to 16:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Arya Vaidya Salar Kottakal. Venue – Activity Area

DAY 6 – Thursday, 17 th February 2011
ENVIRONMENT DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – On Environment Day by India Post. Venue – Activity Area
– 12:00 hrs to 14:00 hrs – Awards ceremony for the winners of the Exhibition. Venue – Activity Area
– 15:00 hrs to 15:30 hrs – Release of Special Cover – ICICI Prudential Life. Venue – Activity Area
– 19:30 hrs to 22:00 hrs – Awards Night followed by Palmares Dinner. Venue – Hotel Taj Palace

DAY 7 – Friday, 18th February 2011
AEROPHILATELY DAY – 10:00 hrs to 18:00 hrs

– 11:30 hrs to 12:00 hrs – Release of Special Cover – Air India.

For more information visit: http://www.indipex2011.com

Endangered Birds – Island

World Wide Fund for Nature will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. On this occasion Iceland Post is issuing 4 stamps with endangered birds as motifs. A comprehensive survey of endangered birds was first issued in the year 2000 listing 32 bird species which account for 42% of all Icelandic breeding birds. Not all these species are in immediate danger of extinction.

Barnacle goose (Branta leucopsis) migrates mainly from northern regions. These birds stop over in Iceland for some weeks every year. The breeding population has increased somewhat in the last few decades. White-fronted goose (Anser albifrons) is a migratory bird in Iceland. The population numbers around 25.000 birds and has been decreasing during the last decade.

Common scoter (Melanitta nigra) is one of the rarer species of ducks breeding in Iceland. It is a migratory bird and is wholly protected in Iceland. Gadwall (Anas strepera) The gadwall was probably first seen in Iceland in the 19th century. It is estimated that the breeding population numbers 200–300 pairs, mainly around Mývatn. It is a migratory birg with its main winter q uarters in Ireland. It is wholly protected in Iceland.

Title: Endangered Birds – Island
Date of Issue: 27 January 2011
Country: Island
Denominations: 75, 75, 165, 165 ISK

Finnish National Opera

The Finnish National Opera (FNO) will celebrate its one hundredth birthday in 2011. In honor of the jubilee the miniature sheet of four stamps is issued.
The visual themes of a miniature sheet focus on scenes from six popular operas from different points in time. The operas selected in the miniature sheet include “The Last Temptations” by Joonas Kokkonen, “The Red Line” by Aulis Sallinen, and “The Knight of the Rose” by Richard Strauss.

Title: Finnish National Opera
Date of Issue: 24 January 2011
Country: Finland
Denominations: 2Lk Kl

Musical instruments – Spain

Spanish post issued a set of stamps devoted to musical instruments featuring four string instruments, three of them plucked: guitar, lute and mandolin, and the other one, the violin, bowed.

The guitar is a plucked string instrument consisting of a wooden box, a neck on which is attached the fretboard, an acoustic sound hole in the center and six strings. The fretboard is embedded with metal frets that allow the different notes. This instrument is known as classical or Spanish guitar. There are four types of acoustic guitars: the classical guitar, the Flamenco guitar, the electric guitar and the electro acoustic guitar.

The lute is a guitar-like instrument with a deep round back and a teardrop-shaped soundboard. The sound hole is not open, but rather covered with a grille in the form of an intertwining vine or a decorative knot, carved directly out of the wood of the soundboard. There are different varieties such as the Arabic lute, the Chinese or pipe and the Spanish lute which was introduced in Europe from Al-Andalus in the Islamic period.

The mandolin is a musical instrument with four double strings and a soundboard which can be concave or flat. It is of Italian origin and has been used by many great classical and modern composers both in traditional music as well as in other music styles. Among its variations is the Italian mandolin, folk and bluegrass.

The violin is a bowed string instrument with four strings tuned in perfect fifths. It consists of a sounding board of an elegant ergonomic shape. It comprises two upper bouts, two lower bouts, and two concave bouts at the waist, providing clearance for the bow. The back and ribs are typically made of maple. The soundboard has two openings in the middle called F-holes. It is used in classical, folk and modern music.

Title: Musical instruments – Spain
Date of Issue: 24 January 2011
Country: Spain
Denominations: 0,35 € x 4

Royal British legion – Gibraltar

The British legion was formed on Sunday 15 May 1921 by the amalgamation of four other associations: the National Association of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers; the British National Federation of Discharged and Demobilized Sailors and Soldiers; Comrades of The Great War and the Officers’ Association. The amalgamation of these four diverse bodies can be attributed largely to two men Field Marshall Earl Haig and Mr T F Lister of The Federation of Discharged and Demobilized Sailors and Soldiers. In 1971 the Legion celebrated its 50th anniversary and was granted the ‘Royal’ prefix in its title by HM Queen Elizabeth II.
Today, The Royal British Legion safeguards the welfare, interests and memory of those who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces. It is one of the UK’s largest membership organisations and are recognised as custodians of Remembrance best known for the annual Poppy Day Appeal which was first held on 11 November 1921.

Some of the bloodiest fighting of World War One took place in the Flanders and Picardy regions of Belgium and Northern France. The poppy was the only thing which grew in the aftermath of the complete devastation. McCrae, a doctor serving there with the Canadian Armed Forces, deeply moved by what he saw, wrote the famous ‘In Flanders’ Fields’ which in turn inspired Moina Bell Michael to pursue her goal of establishing the red poppy of Flanders fields as a universal symbol of tribute to the men who died in World War I and the surviving veterans of that war.

Title: Royal British legion – Gibraltar
Date of Issue: 21 January 2011
Country: Gibraltar
Denominations: £2.65, £4.00

International Year of Chemistry

Slovakia post issued a postage stamp to mark 2011 as an International Year of Chemistry. The 63rd UN General Assembly in December 2008 approved the year 2011 to be the International Year of Chemistry – IYC on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the International Association of Chemical Societies – IACS (a few years later, it was transformed to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).
The main theme of IYC 2011 is “Chemistry – Our Life, Our Future” and is focused on the achievements of chemistry and its contribution to well-functioning human society.

Numerous campaigns of these organizations in 2011 should gain public recognition and understanding of chemistry, increase young people’s interest in science and promote the optimistic understanding of the creative future of chemistry. The official launch of IYC 2011 will be held on January 27, 2011 at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

Stamp edition to mark the International Year of Chemistry in 2011 was initiated the Slovak Chemical Society at the Slovak Academy of Sciences. Chemical industry in Slovakia is particularly focused on petrochemistry, manufacture of pharmaceuticals and products from macromolecular compounds.

Issue of “International Year of Chemistry 2011” is based on the environmentally motivated idea. We are alive because of the ingenious natural chemical reaction – photosynthesis, which ensures the existence of life on earth. Its exceptional performance and waste-free process makes photosynthesis an example, which shows the direction of chemically motivated human activity.

The basis of the stamp design is made up of two important chemical compounds, water and carbon dioxide, depicted according to the calotte model, which interact in photosynthesis. Colouring of the stamp reflects dual-wise two basic stages of photosynthesis: light – in the form of sunlight and dark – in the form of blue colour symbolizing water. Sunlight and chlorophyll are the catalyst of photosynthesis, which results in oxygen and glucose, two molecules of life, having an essential role in our lives.

Title: International Year of Chemistry – Slovakia
Date of Issue: 17 January 2011
Country: Slovakia
Denominations: 0.80 €

International Stamp Exhibition PHILANIPPON 2011

Japan post have organized an international stamp exhibition intended to promote international friendship through cultural exchange and to develop philately in Japan. The exhibition is held at the Pacifico Yokohama in Japan in from July 28.
2011 International Stamp Exhibition in Japan, is expected to handle the animation and the world. In honor of this cultural history of Japanese animation what epoch, regardless of age gained popularity, and trying to work this time stamp designs popular in the world.

(A) (6) – Astro Boy
Is produced in their own hands the authorship Tezuka Osamu, 1963 (1963) is Japan’s first domestically produced anime television began in the year. Is also broadcast around the world are popular. Several times thereafter, in addition to the new animated TV series, 2009 (2009) has since been published in many countries, including Japan movie.

(2) (7) – Doraemon
Authorship, Fujiko Fujio F ·. 1979 (1979) in the animated TV is still popular in the air. The “Doraemon” series, a 30-year anniversary, the first pick 30 works, 2011 (2011) to determine the movie version is also published in the spring. Japan now, including the works of the popular children around the world.

(3) (8) Pokemon;
1996 (1996) released in games, the next 1997 (1997), started in television animation. Is still popular movie version to be published and every summer. In September this year, started broadcasting a new animated series, and 2011 (2011) has also determined that the version released in theaters in summer, including Japan and its popularity has spread worldwide .

(4) (9) Hello Kitty;
1974 (1974) developed and designed by Sanrio Co. in the year, 1975 (1975) is a character in product launch was initiated. Currently, products are sold worldwide, is popular for all ages from children to adults.

(5) (10) wildlife cartoon character (partial);
People caricature cartoon birds have been called Japan’s oldest is now 12 years ago – about 700 are produced in the 13th century picture scroll is introduced to the high temple in Kyoto. (10) design is identical to design a symbol of Japan 2011 International Stamp Exhibition.

Title: International Stamp Exhibition PHILANIPPON 2011
Date of Issue: 21 January 2011
Country: Japan
Denominations: 80 yen x 10

Popular Festivity – Spain

Spanish post issued a stamp to celebrate the 425th anniversary of Fiesta de Sant Sebastià en El Pont de Suert.
The origins of the Fiesta de Sant Sebastià en El Pont de Suert, which celebrates its 425th anniversary, the Cofradía (brotherhood) of the same name, although established in 1503, was not formalized until 1586. This festival, held during the 19, 20 and 21 January, consists of religious and civil acts referred to in the founding text and bylaws of the brotherhood listed in the Llibre Vell of the Cofradía.
Its regulations maintain the spirit of devotion and worship to Saint Sebastià, the brotherhood between the members of the association, the aid of the needy, care of the sick and attendance to funerals.

The festivity begins the evening of 19th with the Vigil Mass of Saint Sebastià followed by the dinner held at the headquarters of the brotherhood.

On the 20th, after breakfast, takes place the Mass of Solemnity, and then the procession of the Saint in the streets. After the religious ceremony, there’s a lunch for the brethren and during the course of it, a partridge is given to Father Preacher. In the evening, before dinner, the rosary is said and the adoration of the relic of St. Sebastià takes place. On the 21st, after breakfast, a Mass is held in memory of the brothers who have died in the course of the year followed by a lunch in which the new priors that will be responsible for organizing the festivity next year are elected.

On October 19th 2010, the Government of Catalonia declared the feast as a Traditional Festivity of National Interest. The stamp depicts a passage of the founding act and in the foreground a hand with a red apple, symbolizing a hand over to the new priors.

Title: Popular Festivity – Spain
Date of Issue: 20 January 2011
Country: Spain
Denominations: 0,35 €

Home-Grown Vegetable Thailand

Thailand post issued a set of four stamps featuring various home grown vegetables.
Different parts of vegetables are useful to humans because they are the source of nutrients that contribute to the growth of the body and the strength of the organs. Some vegetables are natural hurbs with properties that can help to cure as well as to prevent illness.

The parts of vegetables that are left over from consumption can be used for animal feed, fertilizers and energy, as a substitute for gasoline, which is considered to be the ultimate use of vegetables.
1: Tomato
2: Lime
3: Bottle Gourd
4: Pumpkin

Title: Home-Grown Vegetable Thailand
Date of Issue: 15 January 2011
Country: Thailand
Denominations: 3 Baht x 4

National Children’s Day 2011

Thailand post issued a set of four stamps of Khun Chang-Khun Phaen as a part of National Children’s Day.
Khun Chang-Khun Phaen, a traditional Thai literature narrative, is about a love triangle between one woman (Wanthong) and two men (Khun Chang-Khun Phaen). It is believed to be based on a true story from the Ayutthaya Period.

Since then it has been handed down as a folk narrative. Prince Damrong assumed that the origins of the narative lay in the beginning of the Khum Hai Karn Chao Krung Kao Chronicle (The Chronicle of the Statements Made by the Inhabitants of the Ancient Capital). These three characters were from Suphan Buri. Wanthong and Khun Phaen were involved in a secret love affair and they were not yet married when Khun Phaen was conscripted for war.

Khun Chang made every attempt to win Wanthong was his wife but on returning from the war, Khun Phaen took her away from Khun Chang, who went in search of her only to be hurt by Khun Phaen. A plan was devirsed to track them down and, after their arrest, Wanthong was executed for her indecisive love for two men.

The stamps are Illustrating comic-style characters of Thai classic literature titled “Khun Chang-Khun Phaen”
1. Khun Phaen
2. Khun Chang
3. Khun Phaen’s ghost boy called Kumara Thong and Hong Prai, a female spirit in his power
4. Nang Phimpilalai

Title: National Children’s Day 2011
Date of Issue: 8 January 2011
Country: Thailand
Denominations: 3 Baht x 4

Long-horned Beetles

Taiwan post will issue a second set of four stamps, featuring Aeolesthes oenochrous, Doliops similis, Thermistis taiwanensis, and Dorysthenes pici, the long-horned Beetles.

1. Aeolesthes oenochrous (NT$1.00): Commonly known as the Wu-she blood-spotted long-horned beetle in English, the body of this large beetle is densely covered with shiny red hairs. The last three segments of the male’s back-sweeping antennae extend beyond the tips of its elytra, whereas the female’s antennae are shorter than its body. It is found in broad-leaved forests between 600 and 1,500 meters above sea level in mid and northern Taiwan, as well as in China.

2. Doliops similis (NT$3.50): This species is a mimic of the hard-shelled Pachyrrhynchus. This attractive beetle has a black body covered with iridescent blue markings. It has large femurs and tarsi. An endemic species of Taiwan, it can only be found on Orchid Island.

3. Thermistis taiwanensis (NT$10.00): This beetle has a black body, with a yellow blotch on the front of its head, a yellow band on each side of its pronotum, and tubercles on the outer edges of the pronotum. Its elytra are black with yellow bands. Its antennae are black. Its femurs are yellow and the remainder of its legs and claws are black. Endemic to Taiwan, this species is found in broad-leaved forests between 1,200 and 1,500 meters above sea level.

4. Dorysthenes pici (NT$32.00): It has a dark brown, almost black body and a very developed mandible. There are two serrations on its pronotal edge. The male’s antennae extend over half way down its elytra, whereas the female’s only reach the length of one third of its elytra. Endemic to Taiwan, the species is found in broad-leaved forests between 300 and 1,400 meters above sea level in northern Taiwan.

Title: Long-horned Beetles
Date of Issue: 26 January 2011
Country: Taiwan
Denominations: NT$1.00, NT$3.50, NT$10.00, NT$32.00

New Irish Greetings Postage Stamps

On 27 January, 2011, An Post issued two stamps for its annual Greetings series.

This year's Greetings stamps feature bold, colourful photographic treatments of balloons and flowers - typical symbols of joy and happiness, guaranteed to brighten up any greetings correspondence.

The stamps are certain to enliven your envelopes and are suitable for the exchange of expressions of goodwill over a broad spectrum of celebratory events and occasions.

The 2011 Greetings stamp issue is produced in a booklet of ten stamps, which also includes a selection of complementary stickers which can be affixed to your envelope to add that extra personal touch. The stickers feature twinkling lights, streamers, bunting, cupcakes, balloons and flowers all signifying happy occasions and the well wishes of the sender.

The stamps and first day cover were designed by Design Factory.

Franz Liszt postage stamp from Germany

The German Post has issued a stamp celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Hungarian composer Franz Liszt.

Liszt became renowned throughout Europe during the 19th century for his great skill as a performer. He was said by his contemporaries to have been the most technically advanced pianist of his age and perhaps the greatest pianist of all time. He was also an important and influential composer, a notable piano teacher, a conductor who contributed significantly to the modern development of the art, and a benefactor to other composers and performers, notably Richard Wagner, Hector Berlioz, Camille Saint-Saens, Edvard Grieg and Alexander Borodin.

As a composer, Liszt was one of the most prominent representatives of the "Neudeutsche Schule" ("New German School"). He left behind an extensive and diverse body of work, in which he influenced his forward-looking contemporaries and anticipated some 20th-century ideas and trends. Some of his most notable contributions were the invention of the symphonic poem, developing the concept of thematic transformation as part of his experiments in musical form and making radical departures in harmony.

India Post Releases Commemorative Postage Stamp on the Corps of Signals

India Post has released a commemorative postage stamp on the Corps of Signals. On 15 February 2011, the Corps of signals will complete 100 years of its service to the Armed Forces.

Communications have played a vital role in warfare and constitute the nervous system of Armies all over the world. From smoke signals, human runners and pigeons, to telegraphy and onto wireless communications, the transformation to the information age of today has been dramatic & revolutionary. The Corps of Signals of the Indian Army with its dedicated band of officers and men, over the years, has assimilated the emerging technologies to build a well oiled networking force to match the best in the world.

Lt Col SH Powell, Royal Engineers was the founder and first head of the Indian Signal Service which was subsequently re-designated as the Indian Signal Corps. The motto of the Corps is "Teevra Chaukas" i.e. "Swift and Secure," and its emblem depicts the figure of the Roman Deity "Mercury" or "Hermes", the messenger of Gods in Greek mythology, which incidentally has the unique distinction of being the common emblem of most armies of the Commonwealth group of nations.

The Corps of signals, whose men are proudly referred to as 'Information Warriors', has initiated and completed a number of prestigious communication projects like Army Static Switched Communication Network (ASCON) in 1995 and Army Wide Area Network (AWAN) in 2006.

The signallers are also serving the Nation by meeting the difficult communication needs for "Out of Area Contingencies", Disaster and Flood Relief operations etc as aid to civil authorities and in UN Peace Keeping Missions abroad.

In the field of sports the Crops has an excellent record. It has produced many world class/ Olympian sportsmen who have represented the country at various National and International meets in hockey, boxing, athletics.