Army Postal Service Training Centre
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Golden Jubliees |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | December 2, 1998 |
| Denomination | Rs. 3 |
| Quantity | 700,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Photogravure |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1657 Stamp Number IN 1715 Yvert et Tellier IN 1422 Stanley Gibbons IN 1820 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Army | Military Forces | Postal Services |
Backbone of Military Postal Training in India
The Army Postal Service Centre serves as the Regimental Training Centre of the Corps of Army Postal Service (APS). It plays a vital role in training personnel who ensure seamless postal communication for the Indian Armed Forces.
Establishment and Growth
The Army Postal Service Centre was established in June 1948 and became fully operational on 1 December 1948. Initially, the Centre had a modest capacity, training only 20 clerks and packers under an officer of Captain rank.
Over the years, with the expansion of the APS Corps, the Centre has significantly grown:
- Training capacity increased to 200 recruits and 50 cadre personnel
- Additional holding capacity of 50 personnel in the Depot Company
- Leadership upgraded to a Commandant of Colonel rank
Unique Role of the APS Corps
The Corps of APS is unique in its structure:
- It is administratively part of the Indian Army
- Functionally linked to India Post
Around 75% of APS personnel are deputed from the Department of Posts. They serve as combatants for a fixed tenure before returning to their parent department.
The APS Centre plays a crucial role in this system, ensuring that over 98% of trainees successfully complete their training and serve efficiently.
Location and Training Facilities
The APS Centre is located in Kamptee, near Nagpur in central India.
It offers both basic and advanced technical training with specialized facilities, including:
- Model Field Post Office (FPO)
- Simulated Central Base Post Office (CBPO)
- Bunker-based Field Post Office setup
These facilities ensure realistic and practical training for military postal operations.
Modernisation and Skill Development
In line with modernization efforts, the Centre has introduced a dedicated Computer Faculty, providing hands-on training to APS personnel. This helps them adapt to the evolving technological needs of modern postal services.
Legacy and Inspiration
The Centre honors its war hero Issac Perinbam, whose memorial inspires recruits to uphold the Corps motto: “Service Before Self.”
Commemorative Recognition
To celebrate its 50 years of service, India Post issued a commemorative postage stamp marking the Golden Jubilee of the Army Postal Service Centre.
Conclusion
The Army Postal Service Centre stands as a cornerstone of military logistics and communication in India. Through its dedicated training and evolving infrastructure, it continues to support both the Indian Army and the postal system with excellence and efficiency.
First Day Cover
