
NATIONAL: India Post is set to conduct the UPU International Letter Writing Competition for Young People in an annual global initiative of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) to promote creativity, critical thinking and the art of letter writing amongst school students.
The theme for 2026 is: “Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.”
The competition is organised across India through all Postal Circles, in coordination with schools and educational institutions. India Post promotes participation, collects entries, evaluates them at Circle and National levels, and awards prizes—generally on World Post Day (9 October). The best national entry will represent India at the international level, where UPU will award medals (Gold, Silver, Bronze), certificates, and other prizes. The Gold Medalist might also receive a visit to UPU Headquarters, Bern, Switzerland, or an alternative prize.
Eligibility and Guidelines
Age Group: 9 to 15 years
Form: Handwritten letter
Language: English or any language listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India
Participants: Students of recognized schools/institutions
Schools have been requested to organize the competition internally and send the selected entries to their respective Postal Circles by 20 March 2026. Circles will evaluate entries and forward the best three to the Directorate by 31 March 2026.
Prizes
Circle Level:
First Prize: ₹25,000 and Certificate
Second Prize: ₹10,000 and Certificate
Third Prize: ₹5,000 and Certificate
National Level:
First Prize: ₹50,000 and Certificate
Second Prize: ₹25,000 and Certificate
Third Prize: ₹10,000 and Certificate
Mandatory Entry Details
Each entry must include the following on the first page, in English and Hindi:
Passport size photograph of the candidate
Candidate’s name
Date of Birth
Gender
Father’s/Guardian’s name
Name and full address of the School/Institution
Full postal address
Students, parents, and schools may contact their Chief Postmaster General/Postmaster General/Director Postal Services/Nodal Officer for further details. Additional information is available on the website of Department of Posts: www.indiapost.gov.in