The Centenary of Indian Life Insurance was commemorated by the Government of India with a special stamp issued on January 11, 1971, marking 100 years since the inception of state-influenced life insurance, which began around 1870 following the death of a postmaster. This milestone recognized the evolution of the industry prior to the nationalization that created the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) in 1956.

A 20-paisa commemorative stamp was released on January 11, 1971, to mark the centenary

The roots trace back to the 1870s when public demand arose for government-sponsored life insurance following the death of a postmaster.