Summary: Universal Postal Union (UPU) is organising an International Letter Writing Competition 2026 for students aged 9-15 of recognised schools. The theme for 2026 is ‘Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.’ Not to mention, schools are requested to share the best entries with their respective postal circle. 3 of the top entries from each will further be sent to the Directorate by 31 March 2026 following which the best entries will be shared with UPU for the final judgement. The Gold medal winner will also be invited to visit to the UPU headquarters in Bern, Switzerland.
Telecommunication has brought people closer but at the same time the art of writing letters is now slowly being forgotten. Moreover, to revive, India Post has invited students across the country to take part in the UPU International Letter Writing Competition 2026. In addition, this is part of a global competition that takes place every year and is hosted by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) to encourage youngsters to express their thoughts through letter writing.
In a time when most conversations happen on screens, this competition brings the focus back to a handwritten letter. It gives students a chance to think, reflect, and share what really matters to them.
What is the theme for Letter Writing Competition 2026
This year’s topic is: “Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.” Furthermore, students are encouraged to write about friendship, family or simple everyday moments that show the importance of real connections and how they differ from online ones. The idea is to share personal thoughts in a genuine way.
Who Can Participate in the Competition
The competition is for children studying in school. Eligibility and guidelines are as follows:
- Age Group: 9 to 15 years
- Form: Handwritten letter
- Language: English or any language listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India
- Participants: Students of recognised schools/institutions
How is the Letter Writing Competition 2026 organised
India Post conducts the competition through its Postal Circles in coordination with schools.
School Level
Schools are encouraged to hold a contest among their students and select the best letters. Furthermore, the selected entries must be sent to the respective Postal Circle by 20 March 2026.
Circle Level
Each Postal Circle evaluates the entries received from schools. The best three letters from each Circle are then sent to the Directorate by 31 March 2026.
National Level
Entries received from across the country are judged, and national winners are selected. The best letter from India is then sent to represent the country in the international round conducted by the UPU.
Prizes at the international level include medals, certificates and other awards. The Gold Medal winner may also be offered a visit to the UPU headquarters in Bern, Switzerland, or another prize.
Prizes in India
Students can win awards at both Circle and National levels.
Circle Level
- First Prize: ₹25,000 and a Certificate
- Second Prize: ₹10,000 and a Certificate
- Third Prize: ₹5,000 and a Certificate
National Level
- First Prize: ₹50,000 and a Certificate
- Second Prize: ₹25,000 and a Certificate
- Third Prize: ₹10,000 and a Certificate
Winners are usually announced around World Post Day on 9 October.
Details to Include with the Entry
In addition, each letter must have certain details on the first page, written in English and Hindi. However, entries without complete details may not be considered.
- Passport size photograph of the student
- Student’s name
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Father’s or Guardian’s name
- Name and full address of the School/Institution
- Full postal address of the student
A Few Helpful Tips for Students
- Write clearly and neatly since the letter is handwritten
- Stick to the theme and explain your thoughts with simple examples
- Imagine you are truly writing to a friend, not an examiner
- Additionally, keep your ideas organised, with a beginning, middle, and end
- Also, you do not need difficult words. Honest thoughts matter more.
Where to Get More Information
Students, parents, and schools can contact their local postal authorities, such as the Chief Postmaster General, Postmaster General, Director Postal Services, or the designated nodal officer, for guidance. More details are also available on the official website of the Department of Posts at www.indiapost(dot)gov(dot)in.