Postal department capable of creating revolution: P Chidambaram

The postal department is capable of revolutionising society with its host of services to the people, especially the poor, according to Union home minister P Chidambaram.

Speaking at the inaugural of a new building of Karaikudi head post office yesterday, he said the poor can easily open savings accounts at post offices, which offer better interest rates than banks.

These savings are given as loans to state governments to implement social welfare schemes, he said

Though SMS had emerged, it was the postal department that connected thousands of security forces at border areas and other remote places with their families.

It transacted crores of letters every day and was perhaps the only department that offered service at the doorsteps of the people, he said.

Later speaking at a public health exhibition and medical camp at Karaikudi government hospital, he requested the private sector to help state meet the medical needs of a burgeoning population.

He suggested that more private hospitals be set up for the purpose and pointed to the example of 108 free ambulance service, being encouraged by the Centre.

The minister said such expos would also quickly teach students things that could not be learnt in schools and colleges.

The exhibition and medical camp was organised by Med India Institute of Medical Specialties Charitable Trust in Sivaganga district.