New Delhi: The Department of Posts (DoP) has launched a dedicated medicine delivery service for ex-servicemen across India, the Ministry of Communications announced on Friday.
Collaboration with DESW and ECHS
The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), aims to ensure doorstep delivery of medicines not available at Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) polyclinics.
“Under this arrangement, medicines will be procured and packaged through Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) of the Common Service Centres (CSC) located at ECHS polyclinics, while logistics and last-mile delivery will be handled by India Post’s extensive network,” the Ministry said in a statement.
Nationwide Rollout After Successful Pilot
The service was first piloted in Delhi on July 31, where it received an overwhelming response. It was later expanded to cover the NCR region, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, delivering over 1,700 packets of medicines during the pilot phase.
Following the success, the initiative is being scaled up nationwide from October 17, with a comprehensive mapping of 458 ECHS locations across the country completed.
Leveraging India Post’s Reach for Public Welfare
The Ministry said the project reflects India Post’s commitment to public service and citizen welfare, leveraging its trusted and far-reaching postal network for health and social welfare initiatives.
“The service will ensure timely, safe, and reliable delivery of medicines to ECHS beneficiaries, reaffirming India Post’s role as a trusted partner in nation-building,” the Ministry added.
Focus on Sustainable Operations
In September, the Department of Posts also signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) to develop eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions. The partnership focuses on replacing traditional materials with cost-efficient, durable, lightweight, and recyclable alternatives for postal logistics.