India Post to End 50-Year-Old Registered Post Service from Sept 1, Merges with Speed Post

NEW DELHI: The Indian Postal Department has announced the discontinuation of its iconic Registered Post service, marking the end of a 50-year era. From September 1, 2025, the service will be phased out as part of a strategic integration with Speed Post, aimed at modernising operations.

The service was used for delivering important documents like job offers, legal notices, and government correspondence, playing a vital role in the lives of millions of Indians. 

The decision comes after official data showed a 25% drop in registered items from 244.4 million in 2011-12 to 184.6 million in 2019-20, accelerated by digital adoption and competition from private couriers and e-commerce logistics.

The Postal Department's Secretary and Director General has instructed all departments, courts, educational institutions, and users to transition to the new system by September 1. The merger aims to improve tracking accuracy, delivery speed, and operational efficiency by consolidating services under Speed Post, which has been operational since 1986.

However, concerns have been raised about affordability, as Speed Post is more expensive. The starting fee for Registered Post was Rs 25.96 plus Rs 5 per 20 grams, whereas Speed Post begins at Rs 41 for up to 50 grams, making it 20–25% more expensive. This price difference may impact rural India, where post offices are crucial for communication, potentially burdening small traders, farmers, and ordinary citizens who rely on affordable services.

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