India Post and NCPOR Unveil "Bharati" Branch Post Office in Antarctica
In a historic collaboration between India Post and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), the "Bharati" Branch Post Office was inaugurated on 5th April 2024 at Bharati Station in Antarctica. The ceremony, held on the occasion of the 24th Foundation Day of the NCPOR, marked a significant milestone in India's presence in Antarctica.
Shri K.K. Sharma, Chief Postmaster General of Maharashtra Circle, remotely inaugurated the Bharati Branch Post Office, underscoring the power of technology to bridge geographical distances. The event also witnessed the virtual release of a Picture Postcard featuring the picturesque Bharati Station by Chief Postmaster General, Maharashtra Circle.
Dr. Thamban Meloth, Director of NCPOR, along with other dignitaries including Shri R.P. Patil, Director Postal Services, Goa Region, and Dr. Rahul Mohan, Group Director at NCPOR, graced the occasion. Notably, the Team Leader of Bharati Station and Maitri Station, along with their members, joined the event remotely, emphasizing the collaborative spirit across Antarctica.
During his address, Chief Postmaster General Maharashtra Circle encouraged the Branch Postmaster of Bharati Branch Post Office and his team to send letters and postcards to their loved ones, sharing their unique experiences from Antarctica.
The Bharati Branch Post Office becomes the third post office established in Antarctica and the second functioning branch post office. Maitri Branch Post Office, commissioned since 26th January 1990, is its predecessor. Both Bharati and Maitri Branch Post Offices are linked to the NIO Donapaula Sub Post Office under Goa Postal Division. Previously, Dakshin Gangotri Branch Post Office, established in 1984, unfortunately ceased operations in 1990.
The Picture Postcard unveiled during the ceremony will be available for sale upon the return of the expedition to Goa in November 2024, offering a tangible memento of India's scientific and postal endeavors in Antarctica.
This collaboration between India Post and NCPOR not only enhances communication infrastructure in one of the world's remotest regions but also symbolizes India's commitment to scientific exploration and international cooperation in polar research.
