Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Mar 30: The Department of Posts, Mangaluru Division, on Monday inaugurated Coastal Karnataka’s first New Generation (N-Gen) post office at the Srinivasnagar sub post office located at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK) campus at Surathkal. The revamped facility aims to connect India Post with the younger generation by blending its rich heritage with modern digital services and student-friendly amenities.
The N-Gen post office was inaugurated by K Prakash, chief postmaster general, Karnataka Circle, Bengaluru. The programme was attended by chief guests including Julia Mohapatra, general manager (PA & F), Karnataka Circle, and Shriharsha N, director postal services, North Karnataka region, Dharwad. Prof Subhash C Yaragal, deputy director of NITK Surathkal, was the guest of honour.
The inauguration ceremony featured the traditional lighting of the lamp, ribbon-cutting, and a tour of the newly renovated facility, where guests appreciated the modern design, student-friendly ambience, and creative artwork within the post office.
This project marks the fourth N-Gen post office in Karnataka and the first of its kind in the Mangaluru Division and South Karnataka postal region. The initiative reflects the vision of the Department of Posts to integrate its 170-year-old legacy with the digital-first lifestyle of today’s youth.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof Subhash C Yaragal congratulated the Department of Posts for its dedicated service over several decades and emphasised the importance of remembering history while moving towards modernisation. He said institutions and students must learn from the past while building the future.
Chief guest Julia Mohapatra highlighted that the idea of connecting post offices with academic institutions was envisioned nearly 25 years ago. She said the department sought to bring postal services closer to students and educational institutions, calling educational institutions “temples of learning,” the most suitable places for such initiatives.
Shriharsha N, director postal services said that, under the guidance of union minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Department of Posts is focusing on connecting with Gen Z and expanding digital services. He explained that although traditional letter writing has declined, the post office continues to serve people through services such as parcel booking, e-money orders, and digital services via the Dak Seva App.
The Srinivasnagar N-Gen post office has been transformed into a multi-functional student space with several modern facilities including:
• Free high-speed Wi-Fi
• Self-booking kiosk
• Writing ledge for students
• Library corner
• Coffee/tea facility and water dispenser
• Game zone and selfie point
• Modern lobby for relaxation and discussion
The initiative aims to make the post office a comfortable and interactive space where students can study, brainstorm, connect, and also access postal and financial services, making it more than just a post office but a true student community hub.
The event concluded with appreciation from guests and attendees, who described the new post office as modern, creative, and student-friendly, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of India Post services in Coastal Karnataka.