Dhai Akhar: All India Letter Writing Competition by India Post

Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Campaign 2024: Rediscover the Joy of Handwritten Letters in the Digital Age

In today’s fast-paced world, where digital communication has taken over most aspects of our lives, the art of handwriting has become rare. Yet research shows that handwriting remains a foundational skill that influences reading, writing, language use, and critical thinking. Writing by hand plays an essential role in brain development and academic success. Amidst this digital shift, the nostalgic, personal touch of handwritten letters holds an unmatched charm.

The Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Campaign 2024 celebrates this art and offers an incredible platform for people across India to express their thoughts, feelings, and creativity through letters. Organized by the Department of Posts, this campaign encourages participants to explore self-expression while reflecting on the importance of letters in today’s digital age.

Campaign Details

The Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Competition is a yearly event where participants write letters on a specific theme decided by the Department of Posts. These handwritten letters, addressed to the Chief Postmaster General, can win cash prizes at both the Circle and National levels.

This year’s theme, "The Joy of Writing: Importance of Letters in a Digital Age," prompts participants to reflect on the significance of letter writing in a world dominated by instant messaging and emails.

Important Dates

• Campaign Period: 14th September to 14th December 2024
• Last Date for Submission: 14th December 2024

Letters received after 14th December will not be considered, so be sure to send your entries on time!

Categories and Eligibility

The competition is divided into two broad age categories:

1. Up to 18 years:
   • (a) Inland Letter Card Category
   • (b) Envelope Category
2. Above 18 years:
   • (a) Inland Letter Card Category
   • (b) Envelope Category

Who Can Participate?

• Any citizen of India can participate in the competition.
• There are no age restrictions, but participants must declare their age on their letter with a statement such as “I certify that I am below/above the age of 18 as on 01/01/2024.”
• Participants can choose any category based on their age and preference.

Letter Guidelines

• Permitted Stationery:
  • Letters can be written on A-4 size paper (maximum 1000 words) or Inland Letter Card (ILC) (maximum 500 words).
  • The letter must be handwritten; typed letters will not be accepted.
• Languages: The letter can be written in English, Hindi, or any vernacular language.

Prizes and Recognition

Participants stand a chance to win cash prizes at both Circle and National levels. The prize money for the winners of the competition is as follows:

Circle Level Prizes:

1. First Prize: ₹25,000
2. Second Prize: ₹10,000
3. Third Prize: ₹5,000

National Level Prizes:

1. First Prize: ₹50,000
2. Second Prize: ₹25,000
3. Third Prize: ₹10,000

These prizes will be awarded in each of the four categories.

Selection Process

1. Circle Level:

   • Each postal Circle will form an Evaluation Committee, chaired by the Chief Postmaster General (CPMG). Scholars, academicians, or professionals from the field of journalism or literature will be part of the committee to ensure qualitative selection.
   • The top 3 entries from each category will be shortlisted for the Circle level prizes.

2. National Level:

   • The best entries from each Circle will move on to the National level, where an evaluation committee at the Directorate will choose the top 3 letters in each category.

Why Participate?

The Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Campaign is more than just a competition. It’s a unique opportunity to rediscover the joy of handwritten communication, to engage in creative self-expression, and to appreciate the personal touch that a handwritten letter offers. Letter writing fosters critical thinking, promotes empathy, and serves as a nostalgic connection to a timeless tradition.

By participating, you not only stand a chance to win prizes but also contribute to preserving the rich tradition of letter writing in India.

So, grab a pen and paper, and express your thoughts on The Joy of Writing. Let your creativity and heartfelt words flow in this year’s Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Campaign!

For more information, click here