Department of Posts launches nationwide medicine delivery service for ex-servicemen
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New Delhi: The Department of Posts (DoP) has launched a dedicated medicine delivery service for ex-servicemen across the country, the Ministry of Communications announced on Friday.
The initiative, introduced in collaboration with the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), aims to ensure the pickup, booking, transmission, and doorstep delivery of medicines that are not available at Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinics.
According to the Ministry, medicines will be procured and packaged through Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) of Common Service Centres (CSCs) located at ECHS polyclinics, while India Post will manage logistics and last-mile delivery through its extensive postal network.
“This arrangement ensures that medicines reach ECHS beneficiaries efficiently, securely, and across all corners of the country,” the Ministry said in a statement.
The service was initially piloted in Delhi on July 31 and received a positive response. It was then expanded to the NCR region, including parts of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Building on its success, with more than 1,700 packets of medicines delivered during the pilot phase, a comprehensive mapping of 458 ECHS locations has now been completed, enabling nationwide rollout from October 17.
“The initiative reflects the Department of Posts’ commitment to leveraging its extensive postal network for welfare projects and public service,” the Ministry added. “The service will ensure timely and reliable delivery of medicines to ECHS beneficiaries, reaffirming India Post’s role as a trusted partner in nation-building and citizen welfare.”
In a related effort to enhance sustainability, the Department of Posts signed a Memorandum of Understanding in September with the Indian Institute of Packaging to promote eco-friendly packaging solutions. The partnership focuses on developing durable, lightweight, and cost-effective alternatives to materials like corrugated boxes and cloth wraps, supporting a shift towards sustainable postal operations.