The year 1968 has been named by the U.N. General Assembly as the 'International Year for Human Rights', as it marks the twentieth anniversary of the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Righta. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, unanimiously approved by the General Assembly on 10th December, 1948, was the first major step towards inmplementing the previous of the charter. The Declaration, in the words of the Secretary General, U Thant, ranks second only to the Charter of the United Nations, "as an index of the highest aspirations of the world".

In 1965 and 1966, the General Assembly called for intensified effort by member states in the field of human rights during 1968. The recommended theme is the "greater recognition and full enjoyment of the fundamental freedoms of the individual and of human rights everywhere". The aimis to focus attention on universal respect for and observance of fundamental human rights for all, without distinction as to race, sex, lamguage or religion.

The Government of India have decide to join in celebrating 1968 as the International Year for Human Rights. A national Committee has been constituted to co-ordinate the celebrations all over India. The text of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights will be widely publicised through all available means and all universities and educational institutions all over India will participate in the celebrations through talks, lectures, debates, seminars, essay competitions, etc.

The Posts and Telegraphs Department has pleasure in heralding the year by issuing a special postage stamp.

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