The Andhra Pradesh postal circle is launching a unique initiative in which customers can create stamps using their own photographs. It gives one the option of converting personal photographs into legally valid postal stamps.
To be introduced in the first week of April at the General Post Office (GPO), Hyderabad, the personalised stamps will have two detachable parts–the stamp value part and photograph part.
People can choose backgrounds like flowers, illustrations from Panchatantra tales, zodiac signs, wildlife, trains and airplanes or submit their own photographs and get 12 stamps of denomination `5 at a cost for `300. However, the photographs can be printed only on five-rupee stamps.
“This a unique philatelic product in which an individual can have his/her photograph on a postage stamp. AP circle is the third in the country to implement the scheme. The department hopes that it will receive good response from customers,” chief postmaster general of AP circle Karuna Pillai said.
The postal department wants to make it a success and improve its revenue. This scheme is expected to interest children and political leaders. The idea of “My Stamp” is altogether a new concept and it is sure to attract the yonger lot, Pillai said.
Officials said more than 20 designs of My Stamp have been approved by the postal directorate. They include zodiac signs, Taj Mahal, wildlife, train engine, Panchatantra and aircraft.
My Stamp is is a wonderful way to celebrate special occasions such as weddings and birth of a baby or to send greetings to loved ones and friends. The scheme is currently applicable to only individuals. Companies and business houses can’t use this facility now, they said.
Customers can either bring their photographs or a photographer will be arranged by the postal department. The customer can collect his My Stamp sheet within a day.
Customers have to produce ID-proof like voter card, ration card, Aadhaar cards or any other valid document. The scheme is being introduced initially at the GPO, Hyderabad.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Andhra Pradesh / by S Bachan Jeet Singh / ENS – Hyderabad / April 01st, 2013