A Rare Indian Stamp Photoseries Is Emphasizing Ethical Fishing & Ocean Sustainability

In the subtle art of philately, we uncover a profound connection to both the past and the present, woven together by the intricate designs of stamps. Like whispers carried across time, letters transcend the limitations of space, allowing emotions, thoughts, and stories to traverse the world in delicate folds of paper. And within these envelopes lie stamps, not mere postage, but portals to a nation's soul. Each stamp is a canvas of culture, a testament to the nation's history and aspirations, encapsulating the essence of a moment frozen in ink and paper. Through the lens of these small, often overlooked masterpieces, we can catch a glimpse of the symphony of society—the threads of art, politics, innovation, and memory that have shaped a nation's journey. As a philatelist myself, collecting stamps feels like being a custodian of global cultural heritage.

Today we are going to explore a rare series of stamps that were made to honor India’s rich marine life. Being a philatelist and a stereotypical Bengali who loves eating fish, you can imagine my delight when I first laid eyes on this collection. Spanning from the utilitarian realm of Definitive Stamps, such as the 1981 Pomfret, Hilsa, and Prawn designs meant for everyday postal needs, to the poignant beauty of Commemorative Stamps like the 1991 Dugong edition spotlighting endangered species, each stamp offers a mesmerizing portal to history.

This rare series was brought to light on National Philately Day (October 13) by the renowned sustainable seafood initiative called InSeason Fish. InSeason Fish, co-founded by Divya Karnad and Chaitanya Krishna, was born from a united effort led by a dedicated consortium of individuals who hold a shared commitment to championing eco-conscious fishing practices and safeguarding the delicate balance of our oceans. At the heart of their endeavor lies a straightforward mission: empowering consumers to make informed decisions about seafood, thereby nurturing responsible fishing.

Their guiding motto is, "Promoting India's seafood diversity and healthy oceans, one bite at a time." Through tireless educational endeavors, they illuminate the path towards sustainable choices, crafting a profound impact on both our oceans' well-being and the enduring viability of the seafood and culinary sectors. A symphony of collaboration threads through their work, weaving local fishermen, eateries, conscientious consumers, and conservation bodies into a cohesive tapestry. This alliance champions ethical fishing methods, ensuring the safeguarding of endangered marine species and the preservation of fragile aquatic ecosystems. InSeason’s remarkable team comprises marine biologists, social scientists, educators, and artists, all propelling the mission to make sustainable seafood an accessible reality for all.

Find out more about InSeason Fish here.

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