The postal system in India was established during the reign of Sher Shah Suri, a ruler of the Suri dynasty, in the 16th century. Sher Shah Suri is credited with introducing an efficient postal network known as the Dak system in India.
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The postal system in India, known as the Dak system, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. As an expert in this field, I would like to provide you with a detailed account of its invention and other interesting facts.
The credit for introducing an efficient postal network in India goes to Sher Shah Suri, a prominent ruler of the Suri dynasty during the reign of the Mughal Empire. Sher Shah Suri recognized the importance of an organized communication system to facilitate governance and trade across his vast empire. He implemented the Dak system to ensure efficient delivery of messages and official correspondence throughout his realm.
“Dak is the best means of communication for trade and the exchange of thoughts and ideas in a vast empire like ours.” – Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Here are some noteworthy facts about the postal system in India:
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Origin: The concept of a postal system existed in ancient India as well, with the Mauryan Empire known to have a network of runners for communication. However, Sher Shah Suri revolutionized it by creating an organized postal network.
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Couriers and Rest Houses: The Dak system relied on a network of couriers who would carry messages on horseback or on foot between strategically located rest houses. These rest houses, known as Dak Bungalows, provided lodging and facilities for the couriers and the messages.
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Postal Routes: The Dak routes spanned across vast distances, connecting major cities and administrative centers across the empire. The system was particularly crucial for the swift exchange of vital information between different regions.
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Fare System: To ensure an efficient and reliable postal service, Sher Shah Suri implemented a fare system. The cost of delivering letters was determined based on the distance traveled and the urgency of the message. This ensured that the postal service remained financially sustainable.
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Influence on Subsequent Postal Systems: The Dak system, established by Sher Shah Suri, served as an inspiration for the subsequent development of postal systems in India under different rulers, including the British Raj. It laid the foundation for the modern postal infrastructure that we have today.
Here is a snapshot of some interesting facts about the postal system in India:
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| Interesting Facts |
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| Postal system introduced by Sher Shah Suri during the 16th century |
| Dak Bungalows provided rest and facilities for couriers |
| Fare system based on distance and urgency ensured reliability |
| Influence of Dak system seen in modern postal infrastructure |
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In conclusion, the invention of the postal system in India by Sher Shah Suri during the 16th century brought about a significant advancement in communication and governance. The Dak system, with its courier network and strategically located rest houses, provided a vital means of exchanging messages and played a pivotal role in the development of subsequent postal systems. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations and their understanding of the importance of efficient communication networks.
Note: The above text is based on the general knowledge and expertise of the writer and does not cite specific sources.
Video answer to “Who invented the postal system in India?”
This video discusses the evolution of the Indian postal department after independence to meet the demands of a growing population. Various reforms have been introduced, including speed post, e-post, PIN codes, and money orders, and the postal network has continued to expand. The Indian government has implemented new initiatives such as mobile apps, GPS-enabled postal delivery, and postal delivery through GIS mapping. The department of posts now retails mutual funds and bonds, and the India Post Payment Bank was launched in 2018 to strengthen the postal department’s network.
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Warren HastingsThe postal system, established by Lord Clive in the year 1766, was further developed by Warren Hastings by establishing the Calcutta G.P.O. under a Postmaster General in the year 1774. Postal Service was open to the public for the first time against payment.
Warren Hastings had taken initiative under East India Company to start the Postal Service in the country in 1766. It was initially established under the name "Company Mail". It was later modified into a service under the Crown in 1854 by Lord Dalhousie.
Warren Hastings (Governor General of British India from 1773-1784) opened the posts to the public in March 1774. Prior to this the main purpose of the postal system had been to serve the commercial interests of the East India Company.
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