Question : MODERNISATION OF POSTAL SYSTEM

(a) the targets fixed and achievements made under various schemes including Rural Postal Life Insurance and other insurance schemes accomplished by the Department of Posts during each of the last three years and the current year, till date, State-wise;

(b) whether the Department of Posts has failed in providing better services to the customers in comparison to the banks in the country as also in providing attractive returns in traditional deposit schemes;

(c) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken to improve the situation?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (DR. SHAKEEL AHMAD)

(a) The information is being collected and will be laid on the Table of the House.

(b) to (d) No, Sir. Department of Posts is retailing Post Office Savings Bank products to the customers under Post Office Small Savings Schemes on behalf of Ministry of Finance. The rules are framed under Post Office Savings Bank Act, 1873, Post Office Saving Certificate Act, 1959 and PPF Act, 1968 by Ministry of Finance. Banks are providing services under different Acts. There is no comparison between Banks and Department of Posts.