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 organized 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 are 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:

1. Passport size photograph of the candidate
2. Candidate’s name
3. Date of Birth
4. Gender
5. Father’s/Guardian’s name
6. Name and full address of the School/Institution
7. 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