India Post to Establish Independent Delivery Centres (IDC) for Centralized Delivery Operations
At present, India Post operates around 19,500 delivery post offices, with many being single or double-handed setups. This limited manpower poses challenges in supervising delivery functions effectively. The success of Nodal Delivery Centres (NDCs) in parcel deliveries has motivated the department to expand centralized delivery to encompass Speed Post, Registered Post, parcels, and ordinary mail.
Key Features of the IDC Proposal
- Focused Delivery Operations:IDCs will exclusively handle delivery services, separating these functions from traditional post office operations such as booking and customer services. This shift will enable specialized delivery schedules, including second deliveries, holiday operations, and early morning or late-night services, mirroring practices in the Courier Express Parcel (CEP) industry.
- Integrated Facilities:Each IDC will manage 50-80 delivery beats, consolidating the jurisdictions of existing delivery post offices. Dedicated supervisory and operational staff will ensure efficient management. Nodal Delivery Centres (NDCs) will either merge with or operate alongside IDCs as part of an integrated delivery strategy.
Infrastructure Development:
- Greenfield IDCs: 50 new facilities will be constructed, ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, with parking for delivery vehicles.
- Brownfield IDCs: 1,800 centers will be set up in existing buildings, with necessary upgrades.
- Development is planned over four years (2025-26 to 2028-29) under the Postal Infrastructure Management Scheme.
- Land Identification and Planning:Circles have been directed to identify suitable sites for the proposed IDCs. A list of 1,472 vacant land plots has been shared to assist with this process.
Next Steps
A meeting chaired by the Secretary (Posts) is scheduled for January 17, 2024, to discuss the implementation of the Postal Infrastructure Management Scheme. IDC planning will be a critical agenda item. Circles are required to submit an action-taken report by January 16, 2024, to mailbusiness@indiapost.gov.in and mailbusinessdte@gmail.com.
This proposal marks a transformative step for India Post, aligning its operations with modern service standards and customer expectations. Detailed policy guidelines for the establishment of IDCs will follow soon.
For additional information, refer to Memo No. 16-01/2025-D or contact the Mail Operations Division.
