The Ministry of Communications announced the launch of a drone-based mail transmission service by the Department of Posts in Himachal Pradesh, effective from June 12, 2026. The service operates between Mandi Head Post Office and Rehardhar Branch Post Office, reducing transit time from over 2 hours to approximately 7 minutes for the 12-kilometer route.
The initiative was launched under the leadership of Union Minister of Communications Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, following feedback from Gramin Dak Sevaks and Postal Assistants about the need for faster connectivity in remote and difficult terrains. The drone service overcomes terrain-related challenges while enabling real-time tracking and providing an environmentally sustainable transportation mode.
The Department of Posts has planned deployment of drone-based mail transmission across approximately 150 identified routes in Himachal Pradesh and Assam over the next two to three months, with the Mandi-Rehardhar route being the first operational implementation. The initiative is expected to enhance service delivery, strengthen connectivity in remote and mountainous regions, and improve access to essential postal services for local communities, fostering greater social and economic inclusion.