India Post Launches Drone-Based Mail Delivery Service in Himachal Pradesh
New Delhi , June 13 (TNT): In a major step towards modernising postal services and improving connectivity in remote regions, the Department of Posts has launched drone-based transmission of mail and parcels between Mandi Head Post Office and Rehardhar Branch Post Office in Himachal Pradesh.
The service became operational on June 12 under the guidance of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.
The initiative follows feedback received by the Union Minister during interactions with Gramin Dak Sevaks and Postal Assistants, who highlighted the need for faster and more efficient connectivity in difficult and remote terrains.
According to the Department of Posts, the drone service is part of a broader plan to deploy drone-based mail transmission across nearly 150 identified routes in Himachal Pradesh and Assam over the next two to three months. The Mandi–Rehardhar route is the first to be operationalised under the programme.
Rehardhar Branch Post Office, situated around 12 kilometres from Mandi Head Post Office, currently requires more than two hours for mail transportation through conventional means.
With drone technology, the transit time has been reduced to approximately seven minutes.
Officials said the service is designed to overcome geographical and terrain-related challenges while offering real-time tracking of consignments and an environmentally sustainable mode of transportation.
The initiative is expected to significantly improve postal service delivery in remote and mountainous regions, strengthen connectivity and enhance access to essential services for local communities.
The Department of Posts said the project reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for citizen-centric service delivery and promoting greater social and economic inclusion in underserved areas.
TNT KS
