India Post issued this stamp on 8th September 1990, commemorating the International Literacy Year. The International Literacy Year was announced by the UN General Assembly through resolution 42/104. The resolution also assigned UNESCO the role as lead organisation to commemorate the year.

India commemorated the International Literacy Year in various ways, including through mass media campaigns and literacy programs in specific districts and states to promote literacy and scientific awareness. The Bharat Gyan Vigyan Jatha (BGVJ), organised by the People's Science Movement of India, was one of the nationwide initiatives launched during the International Literacy Year to promote literacy and scientific awareness in villages.