In a first-of-its-kind initiative, India Post on Friday delivered the National Flag, Tiranga, by drone from Mandi Head Post Office to Rehardhar Branch Post Office in Himachal Pradesh on the eve of Independence Day.
Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya M. Scindia virtually inaugurated the drone delivery and witnessed the live take-off from the Mandi Head Post Office. He also interacted with postal officials and the drone operator during the operation.
The drone subsequently landed at Rehardhar Branch Post Office, where postal officials received the parcel carrying the Tiranga and formally handed it over to an Army veteran, adding a special significance to the Independence Day initiative.
Scindia said the journey of the Tiranga through the skies of Himachal Pradesh symbolised the spirit of a new India that is determined to overcome geographical barriers and reach every citizen.
He said this year’s Independence Day carries added significance as the country commemorates 150 years of Vande Mataram, bringing together national pride, the spirit of service and the aspiration of building a Viksit Bharat.
The Union Minister also said the Tiranga should not only be present in every home but also in the hearts of every Indian. As part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, India Post is making the National Flag available for delivery to citizens across the country, enabling people to participate in the national celebration from their homes.
The drone operation from Mandi to Rehardhar demonstrated how emerging technologies can supplement India Post’s extensive physical network and improve last-mile connectivity, particularly in remote and difficult terrains.
The Department of Posts is exploring drone-based mail transmission as an innovative solution for delivering postal and public services to areas where conventional transportation can be challenging.
Under the initiative, drone-based mail transmission is planned across 150 identified routes in Himachal Pradesh and Assam. The programme aims to strengthen connectivity and improve the efficiency of mail delivery across difficult terrains.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader vision of a technologically advanced, inclusive and connected Viksit Bharat and reflects India Post’s continuing focus on innovation under its service ethos of “Dak Sewa, Jan Sewa.”
