Sun Mar 16 17:31:03 UTC 2025: ## India Post Reverses Course, Lowers Book Postage Rates After Publisher Outcry

**Bengaluru, March 16, 2025** – Following widespread protests from book publishers and sellers over increased postal rates, the Indian government has announced a reversal of its policy. The June 2024 implementation of the Post Office Act, 2023, eliminated the subsidized “Book Packet” service, replacing it with the more expensive “Book Post” service. This resulted in a 50% price increase for sending books, significantly impacting publishers and readers.

The Ministry of Communications-Department of Posts responded to concerns raised by Purushothama Bilimale, Chairman of the Kannada Development Authority, stating that the changes were part of a product rationalization initiative. However, the ministry also announced that Book Post rates would be aligned with the previous Book Packet rates.

Furthermore, India Post has introduced a new, reasonably priced “India Post Parcel” service offering tracking for both retail and bulk customers. This service allows for the sending of parcels weighing up to 2 kg at a rate comparable to the old registered book packet service. This is particularly beneficial for bulk customers like printers and wholesalers.

Prof. Bilimale welcomed the changes, highlighting the importance of affordable postal services for book distribution across India. Dhananjaya, a publisher from Jeerunde Pusthaka in Bengaluru, expressed relief, stating that the increased costs had significantly impacted their margins and readers. Publishers are now urging for the swift implementation of the reinstated subsidized rates. The new “India Post Parcel” service and the rate reduction are expected to significantly ease the burden on the publishing industry and ensure continued access to books for readers across the country.

Read More