On the 1st August, 1960, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru declared in the Lok Sabha that it had been decided to create a new 16th State within the Indian Union known as "Nagaland". The State of Nagaland was formed on the 1st December, 1963. The creation of the State of Nagaland is the consummation of the policy laid down by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru that "the tribal areas should have as much freedom and autonomy as possible so that they can live their own lives according to their customs and desire." Pt. Nehru had always taken a profound interest in tribal people and showed great affection for them. He frequently spoke about the spirit in which they should be administrated and developed. Thus, when a Naga delegation went to see him in New Delhi, he said "not-only is Naga territory theirs but the whole of India is theirs. It is their duty to build up their local area along with the whole of India and preserve their customs and language within the integrity and unity of India."

Nagaland which is divided into three districts- Kohima, Mokokchung and Tuensang- with its administrative headquarters at Kohima, is a long narrow strip of hills running more or less parallel to the south or left bank of the Brahmaputra. The entire country is covered with ranges of hills, which sometimes break into a wild chaos of spars and ridges and sometimes, as round Kohima, descend with gentre slops.

The inhabitants of the State-Nagas-are a fine set of people, strong and self-reliant with a free and independent outlook, characteristic of highlanders everywhere, good to look at with an cheerful with a keen sense of humour, and a love for song and dance. 3. On the 1st December, 1967 falls the fourth anniversary of the inauguration of the State of Nagaland. On this occasion, the Posts and Telegraphs Department feels greatly privileged to issue a special postage stamp. The theme selected for this special issue is befittingly, "Nehru and Nagaland".

The story of India has been a synthesis of races and cultures leading to the creation and charactreisation of a composite Indian civilisation, diverse in its origin but united in its ideals and aspirations. The theme highlights the need for emotional integration of India- the principle which was dearest to the heart of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.

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