Anche Kotresh, a postmaster from Vijayanagara district, is drawing attention after his representation to the Union communications minister was followed by a key relaxation in eligibility norms for Rural Postal Life Insurance, expanding access to millions beyond rural areas
Kotresh, popularly known by the prefix “Anche” (meaning post), told TOI that he wrote to the minister on June 22 seeking the introduction and promotion of Urban Postal Life Insurance (UPLI) for urban residents with limited educational qualifications and those who are uneducated. Extending postal insurance benefits to them would provide financial security and improve their economic prospects,” he said. Hosapete : Kotresh, a postmaster in Kotturu of Vijayanagara district, has played a role in expanding access to postal life insurance by writing to Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia and urging the govt to extend coverage beyond its traditional beneficiary base. “Many urban residents, including small traders, self-employed individuals and people with limited formal education, can afford to save a small amount every month. We have seen several instances of such people losing money after investing in private firms. After receiving no response, Kotresh sent a reminder to the ministry. The representation was subsequently forwarded through various levels of the postal administration, including the department of posts and Karnataka Circle, for consideration.
On Aug 14, Amit Kumar Jha, additional general manager-III, Directorate of Postal Life Insurance, New Delhi, issued an order expanding eligibility under Rural Postal Life Insurance (RPLI). I am happy that my request was acted upon within 53 days,” he said.
Kotresh said his interactions with street vendors and small business owners in Kotturu inspired him to pursue the issue. R Ashok, superintendent of posts, Ballari division, said the Union govt may have received similar representations from various quarters. “However, it is a matter of pride for postal employees that Kotresh’s representation was also taken into consideration,” he said.
Under the revised norms, any person maintaining an operative savings bank account with a post office or any scheduled bank in India is eligible to purchase an RPLI policy. “I felt young entrepreneurs and daily earners should also have access to affordable insurance through the Department of Posts.
Earlier, the scheme was limited to rural residents.