In 1968, India Post issued this commemorative postage stamp to mark the International Year for Human Rights. 1968 was designated by the UN General Assembly as the ‘International Year for Human Rights’ through resolution 2081 (XX) on 20th December 1965, marking the 20th anniversary of the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

In 1965 and 1966, the UN General Assembly called on the member states to intensify their efforts in the field of human rights during 1968. The recommended theme was the “greater recognition and full enjoyment of the fundamental freedoms of the individual and of human rights everywhere”.

Released on 1st January 1968 by India Post, the stamp was part of a broader effort to raise awareness about human rights issues and encourage international cooperation in safeguarding the fundamental rights stipulated in the UDHR. This stamp not only highlighted India's commitment to human rights but also contributed to the country's rich philatelic heritage.

The UDHR, in the words of the UN Secretary-General Mr. U Thant, is “an index of the highest aspirations of the world “. The UDHR has been translated into over 500 languages. The UDHR comprises 30 separate articles which include access to education, employment, health care, freedom of speech, privacy and mutual respect, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or religion.