In News:

The Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, launched a new service called ‘Gyan Post’ to facilitate affordable delivery of educational and cultural books across India.

Key Highlights:

Objective:

• To bridge the educational divide by improving access to printed educational materials, especially in rural and remote regions.
• Aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) to promote inclusive education.

Salient Features:

• Service Availability: All Departmental Post Offices across India.
• Type of Material:
  • Only non-commercial printed educational, cultural, social, and religious books.
  • Books must not contain advertisements or promotional content.
  • Must bear the name of the printer or publisher.
• Delivery Mode: Surface mail (traceable) – enhances transparency and reliability.
• Tariff Structure:
  • ?20 for packets up to 300 grams
  • ?100 for packets up to 5 kilograms (excluding applicable taxes)
• Tracking: Available to ensure accountability and customer confidence.

Significance:

• Promotes educational equity by supporting learners in under-served areas.
• Complements Digital India and NEP 2020 by reinforcing multi-modal education access (print + digital).
• Encourages the circulation of knowledge, especially in regions with poor digital penetration.