State PCS - West Bengal (WBCS)

• 09 Aug 2025

‘Binamrata’ Initiative

Why in News? 

On 4th August 2025, the Department of Posts (West Bengal Circle) in partnership with the Philatelic Congress of India and Rotary International, supported the heartwarming letter-writing initiative ‘Binamrata’. 

Key Points 

• About: The ‘Binamrata’ initiative aimed to revive the art of handwritten letters, focusing on personal expressions of gratitude. 
  • This unique project invited students of Classes IX and X to pen handwritten letters to their parents or teachers, expressing their heartfelt gratitude, reviving the nearly forgotten charm of personal correspondence.  
  • More than 5,000 students from 63 schools across the state participated in the event, showcasing deep emotional connect and creativity through their letters. 
• Other Initiatives: In its continued efforts to promote the art of letter writing in the age of social media, the Department also organizes other annual competitions such as Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Contest and the UPU International Letter Writing Competition for Young People. 

Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) 

• The Philatelic Congress of India (PCI) is the National Philatelic Federation of Philatelists and Philatelic Societies in India.  
• It was formed in Calcutta (Kolkata) on 29th December 1975 during the National Philatelic Exhibition INPEX-1975.  
• PCI was established as a National Federation in consultation and association of the Department of Post (DOP).  

Rotary International 

• Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.