August 15, 1972, India completed 25 years of her Independence

On August 15, 1972, India completed 25 years of her Independence and the event was marked by celebrations over a 12-month period. India commemorated this historic year in the nation's life by bringing out a series of three postage stamps, the first of which was issued on August 15, 1972. Two more stamps of this series were issued on 26^th January 1973 to coincide with Republic Day, 1973.  

The stamp of denomination 20P. is vertical and shows the "Ashoka Chakra" interlocked by a Naga, symbolising how democracy is well protected in this country.  The stamp of the denomionation Re. 1.45 is horizontal and shows three Gnat fighter planes flying over India Gate, Nrw Delhi emitting three-coloured smoke corresponding to the colours of our National Flag.

My own contribution towards India's Independence was nil, other than the fact that I was born prior to Indepemdence. But, I was nominated to aid the then Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi in unfurling the National Flag on the ramparts of the Red Fort in New Delhi as depicted on the First Day Cover.