Question : VILLAGES WITHOUT POST OFFICES

(a) whether several villages in the country have been left out without post offices;

(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;

(c) whether the Government proposes to open post offices in such villages; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which the said post offices are likely to be opened?

THE MINISTER OF HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI KAPIL SIBAL)

(a) to (d) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT TO BE LAID ON THE TABLE OF THE LOK SABHA IN RESPECT OF PARTS (a) TO (d) OF THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 34 FOR 23RD FEBRUARY, 2011 REGARDING “VILLAGES WITHOUT POST OFFICES”.

(a) Yes, Madam. Opening of Post Offices in villages is an ongoing activity. Post Offices are opened subject to fulfillment of certain prescribed norms, availability of Plan support and manpower. However, Post Offices cater to all the villages in the country.

(b) State-wise details of villages without Post Offices are given in Annexure I.

(c) & (d) Post Offices are opened in villages in a phased manner subject to availability of Plan support. During the current Financial Year (2010-11), target for opening of 200 Branch Post Offices (in rural area) and 110 Sub Post Offices (in rural and urban areas) has been allotted to Circles. Circle-wise details of targets issued are given in Annexure II.