India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Gujarat

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 16.07.1984

Pin code: 370001

Status: Active

PO Name: Bhuj

Description: The Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. Located in the Great Rann of Kutch in Gujarat spread over about 7,500 square km. Established in 1986, it is famous as the “Flamingo City Sanctuary” due to its significant population of Greater and Lesser Flamingos. It is located in the muddy terrain of the Rann about 10 km from Neer Chowki near Kalo Dungar. Located 124 km from Bhuj, the unique ecosystem of the sanctuary changes with the seasons. During the monsoon, it consists of shallow wetlands, while in winter it becomes a vast salt desert. 

It serves as an important breeding site for the sanctuary's flamingos, where nesting was first observed in 1883. Other bird species include the Great Indian Bustard, Spoonbill, White Pelican, various ducks, raptors and storks. Lesser Flamingos, Rosy Pelicans and Avocets also breed here. Apart from its rich bird life, the sanctuary is home to mammals such as chinkara, fox, hyena, nilgai, spiny-tailed lizards and the occasional caracal. It also houses the archaeological site of Dholavira, a major excavation site of the Harappan civilization, which attracts researchers from all over the world. The northern boundary of this sanctuary forms the international border with Pakistan.