75 Years of 1 Central Base Post Office

The story of 1 Central Base Post Office (CBPO) began in 1947 when troops were deployed to maintain law and order at the East Punjab border and assist in refugee management. Recognizing the need for a dedicated postal arrangement, the Army established 56 APO, which later evolved into 1 CBPO, functioning at New Delhi.

1 CBPO serves as the head post office and hub of postal and Special Delivery Service (SDS) mail for 259 Field Post Offices (FPOs) and Sub-Delivery Offices (SDOs) across Northern, Western, South-Western, Central, and Southern Commands. It also handles base censorship and provides postal services to paramilitary forces under Army operational control in Northern and Western borders, as well as to Air and Naval Commands and Indian contingents in UN Peacekeeping Forces.

Originally designated as New Delhi 56 APO, it operated as the base sorting office and later became 56 Base Post Office, using the coded address “C/O 56 APO” for troops in sensitive areas. In 1960, it was renamed 1 Central Base Post Office and shifted to Rao Tula Ram Marg in 1977.

1 CBPO plays a crucial role in maintaining mail communication during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing contingency plans to ensure the flow of mail while adhering to safety guidelines.

Throughout its 75-year journey, 1 CBPO has adapted to various challenges, utilizing Army vehicles, couriers, cargo flights, and other modes of transport for mail exchange. Its contributions to seamless mail communication in the Armed Forces are commendable, deserving recognition through a Commemorative Postage Stamp.

The Department of Posts acknowledges the dedication and service of the Army Postal Service Corps by issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp on the 75th anniversary of 1 Central Base Post Office, honoring its invaluable contribution to Armed Forces mail communication.