New Delhi: The Department of Posts today held its much-anticipated Officers’ Conclave 2024, a pivotal event aimed at driving transformation and fostering innovation across India’s vast postal network. With a legacy of over 150 years, India Post continues to stand as the backbone of communication in the country, and the conclave marks a significant step towards redefining its role in the digital age.

The event was inaugurated by Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of the North Eastern Region, who delivered an inspiring keynote address. In his speech, the Minister saluted the unwavering commitment of the postal workforce, stating, “India Post is not just about delivering letters and parcels, but about connecting hearts and bridging distances across the country. That’s why I say, ‘Rain or shine, Hill or Sea, City or Village – India Post DELIVERS!’”

Scindia also remarked, “There’s no history of India without the Department of Posts. Right from the time when messages were tied to pigeons, to the first stamp issued in 1852 and the first airmail service in 1911, that’s our history.”

He emphasised the evolving role of India Post as a critical player in supporting the nation’s goals of digital and financial inclusion, while honouring the institution’s deep-rooted history in India’s socio-economic fabric. He highlighted a new dynamic working style adopted under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on goal-setting, targets, and an output-driven approach through collective action and leadership. In an inspiring note, he mentioned the five pillars that would lead to the transformation of the Postal Department: (i) Lead to Inspire; (ii) Resolve to Innovate; (iii) Inclusive Growth; (iv) Transforming through Collective Action; and (v) Staying True to the Mission of Jan Sewa.

The Officers’ Conclave 2024 brought together postal leaders from across the nation to strategise the future of India Post. The event focused on innovation, transformation, and enhancing public service delivery in alignment with India’s digital and financial inclusion goals. The conclave served as a platform to review the department’s recent performance, identify challenges, and strategise for the future. Key sessions also focused on the department's legislative updates, budget performance, and revenue achievements. Discussions on citizen-centric services, including the expansion of Post Office Passport Seva Kendras, Aadhaar services, and the newly launched Dak Ghar Niryat Kendras, highlighted the department’s role in empowering local businesses and ensuring greater financial inclusion.

Scindia outlined a new vision for the postal service, urging officers to think like entrepreneurs, act as leaders, and innovate to keep pace with the evolving demands of modern communication. “The future starts today, not tomorrow,” he said, calling for a shift in mindset to see India Post not just as a mail delivery system but as a financial powerhouse and a key driver of the nation’s economy.

One of the key highlights of the conclave was the emphasis on the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan (NMP), showcasing how the department is leveraging this initiative to enhance infrastructure and operational efficiency. Discussions also covered financial services through the Post Office Savings Bank (POSB), India Post Payment Bank (IPPB), and insurance schemes like Postal Life Insurance (PLI) and Rural Postal Life Insurance (RPLI). These services have enabled the Department of Posts to take significant strides in reaching every corner of the country and contributing to the Digital India mission.

The Minister concluded by urging officers to “embrace the values of teamwork, efficiency, and goal-setting,” and to continuously strive towards making India Post globally competitive, trustworthy, and technology-driven. He reiterated the importance of staying true to the mission of Dak Sewa, Jan Seva, and pledged to make India Post the “first choice” for all communication and financial services in the country.

The Officers' Conclave 2024 has set the tone for a transformative future for the Department of Posts, with an unwavering focus on innovation, efficiency, and public service excellence. The conclave is a testament to India Post’s commitment to delivering world-class services, fostering trust, and playing a vital role in India’s socio-economic development. /BI