The Indian Postal Department has announced the end of its iconic Registered Post service after 50 years, with plans to phase it out starting September 1, 2025, to integrate with Speed Post and modernise operations. This service was appreciated for its dependability, cost-effectiveness, and legal legitimacy. It is used to deliver essential documents such as job offers, legal notices, and government correspondence, and it plays an important role in the lives of millions of Indians.
The decision comes after a 25% drop in registered items, decreasing from 244.4 million in 2011-12 to 184.6 million in 2019-20. This decline was caused by a digital shift and rising competition from private couriers and e-commerce logistics.
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With instructions from the Postal Department’s Secretary and Director General, all users, including departments, courts, and educational institutions, must transition to the new Speed Post system by September 1. This merger aims to enhance tracking, speed, and efficiency by consolidating services, as Speed Post has operated since 1986.
Concerns about higher costs have been voiced, since Speed Post’s starting fee of Rs 41 for up to 50 grams is 20-25% more expensive than Registered Post’s Rs 25.96 plus Rs 5 per 20 grams, potentially affecting rural users, small traders, farmers, and ordinary citizens who depend on affordable communication services.
Officials argue the change is necessary to meet growing expectations in a digital era.
While Speed Post will keep key features like tracking and acknowledgment, the shift has stirred nostalgia among older and rural users who see Registered Post as a trusted symbol.
