India, with the largest postal network in the world, has the unique distinction of being the first country in Asia to have issued postage stamps and the second country in the world to have produced bi-colour stamps, both printed in Calcuta.
The first of such international exhibitions was organised in a small way in 1954, as part of the centenary celebrations of the Indian Postage Stamp. This was followed by INDIPEX – 73 International Philatelic Exhibition held in New Delhi, from 14 to 23 November, 1973.
The stamp exhibition INDIPEX73 opened on 14th November 1973 ie the Children's Day and hence, this first day cover was dedicated to children After all, philately starts with children. The four stamps depict (20P) All roads lead to INDIPEX73 in New Del;hi, (Re1) A ceremonial elephant, (Rs1.45) the exhibition logo and finally the (Rs2.00) peacock which is the national bird stamp. The postmark is a child and the cover has a picture of The Hall of Nations where the exhibition was held.
This FDC is with the lion post mark and the cover depicts the Sanchi Stupa gate, a buddhist pilgrimage centre.
This first day cover was issued by The Airmail Society of India. It has the hot air balloon postmark. I was lucky to have visited this wonderful exhibition on all nine days.
A miniature sheet was also issued on this occasion. This is the first miniature sheet of stamps issued by the P&T Department.
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