Naidu and Scindia Laud Dak Sevaks as Indispensable Pillars of Rural India
In a powerful address at the Dak Sevak Sammelan in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the irreplaceable role of Dak Sevaks, declaring that no technological advancement can substitute the human touch they provide in villages. Speaking alongside Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia, Naidu highlighted their selfless dedication spanning over 150 years.
Historical Legacy and Evolving Responsibilities
Naidu recounted the profound historical contributions of Dak Sevaks, noting their indirect involvement in India's freedom struggle by securely delivering confidential letters to freedom fighters. Their duties have significantly transformed from traditional tasks like letter and money order delivery to modern responsibilities including distributing welfare benefits and facilitating banking services.
Despite the rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence and digital systems, Naidu asserted that machines lack the essential empathy and reliability inherent in Dak Sevaks. He revealed a critical statistic: approximately 33% of Direct Benefit Transfer transactions are efficiently routed through these postal workers, ensuring government schemes reach intended beneficiaries without delay.
Government Initiatives for Support and Modernization
To promote sustainable practices, Naidu urged Union Minister Scindia to consider providing electric bicycles to Dak Sevaks, enhancing their mobility while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. In response, Scindia echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the unwavering trust rural communities place in the postal system and labeling the contributions of Dak Sevaks as unforgettable.
Scindia committed to improving basic facilities for these workers and assured efforts to secure Kendriya Vidyalaya admissions for their children. He also emphasized strengthening the parcel delivery system and enhancing the speed of mail networks. "We will explore providing e-scooters to rural postal servants to aid their mobility," Scindia added, aligning with Naidu's vision for modernization.
Financial Challenges and Calls for Innovation
Union Junior Commissions Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar highlighted Andhra Pradesh's leading performance in postal department operations but issued a cautionary note. He warned that modern technology has precipitated a decline in traditional postal services, creating financial strain.
Chandrasekhar disclosed that the postal department incurs an annual expenditure of ₹35,000 crore nationwide while generating only ₹13,000 crore in revenue. After the railways, it employs the largest workforce in the country, yet risks mirroring the financial difficulties faced by Air India if not addressed proactively.
He urged Dak Sevaks to embrace innovative thinking to convert deficits into profits and boost revenue streams, ensuring the department's sustainability in an increasingly digital era.
