Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Competition: Inland Letter Card Category (ILC)
by Department of Posts, Government of India
₹50,000
An annual national letter writing competition by the Department of Posts, India, to promote the art of handwriting with significant cash prizes.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
The submission period is approximately three months.
Time needed
Depends on individual research and writing time
Eligibility
Open to all Indian citizens. There are two age categories for participation: 'Up to 18 years' and 'Above 18 years'. Participants must provide a self-attested age certificate on the letter itself. Participation is open nationwide.
- Age range
- 6 years and above
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No specific academic requirement.
- Prerequisites
- Must be an Indian citizen.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
₹50,000
Offers substantial cash prizes at national and circle levels. National winners receive up to ₹50,000, and circle-level winners can get up to ₹25,000.
Certificate
Certificate of Recognition
Winners at both Circle and National levels receive a Certificate of Recognition from the Department of Posts.
Recognition
National-level recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Aug 2026
- Registration closes
- 31 Oct 2026
- Competition
- 1 Aug 2026 to 31 Oct 2026
Chief Postmaster General (CPMG) of the participant’s postal circle, Across India, All States and Union Territories
How to apply
- 1Write a letter on the theme 'Letter to My Role Model' in English, Hindi, or any other recognized Indian language.
- 2The letter must be handwritten; typed or AI-generated letters are not accepted.
- 3Address the letter to the Chief Postmaster General of your respective postal circle.
- 4Superscribe the envelope with 'Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Competition' and post it at a nearby post office before the deadline.
- 5Use an Inland Letter Card (up to 500 words).
- 6Write a letter in English, Hindi, or any other recognized Indian language.
Rules and guidelines
- Only handwritten letters are accepted; typed letters will be disqualified.
- Participants must provide a self-declaration of their age on the letter.
- Submissions must adhere to the specified word limits for each category.
- The decision of the judges at both Circle and National levels will be final.
- The word count must not exceed 500 words.
About this opportunity
The Dhai Akhar National Level Letter Writing Competition – Inland Letter Card Category is an initiative by the Department of Posts, Government of India, designed to promote the timeless art of letter writing among citizens, especially the youth. Participants are invited to express their thoughts, emotions, and creativity through handwritten letters written on the Inland Letter Card (ILC) format — a traditional and economical medium that connects people across distances.
Every year, the competition revolves around a socially relevant or patriotic theme inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals and values. Participants are encouraged to write with clarity, sincerity, and originality in either English, Hindi, or any recognized regional language. Submissions are judged on content, expression, handwriting, and relevance to the theme.
The contest offers attractive cash prizes at Circle and National levels, inspiring writers to rediscover the personal touch of handwritten communication. Open to students and adults alike, this competition revives the charm of traditional correspondence while nurturing a sense of belonging, empathy, and national pride through every carefully crafted Inland Letter Card.
Rounds and format
The competition consists of two main stages. Initially, all entries are evaluated at the Circle (state/regional) level. Following this, the top three letters from each category within every Circle are sent to the Postal Directorate in New Delhi for the final national-level judging.
How entries are judged
Entries are evaluated based on creativity, originality of content, clarity of expression, adherence to the theme, and overall composition of the letter.
Selection process
At the Circle level, an evaluation committee selects the best three entries. These shortlisted letters are then forwarded for national-level evaluation, where a final selection committee determines the national prize winners.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
The competition does not follow a fixed curriculum but focuses on the art of letter writing based on a specific theme announced each year. Participants are expected to structure their thoughts, express ideas creatively, and adhere to the conventions of letter writing. The themes are typically of national or social importance, encouraging participants to reflect on and articulate their perspectives.
Frequently asked questions
What are the common pitfalls participants should avoid during the letter writing process?
Common pitfalls include exceeding the word limit, submitting typed letters instead of handwritten ones, or failing to include the mandatory age declaration. Not addressing the letter correctly or missing the submission deadline can also lead to disqualification.
Are there any specific tips for maintaining good handwriting, which is a judging criterion?
To maintain good handwriting, participants should write slowly and deliberately, focusing on consistent letter formation and spacing. Using a comfortable pen and practicing regularly can significantly improve legibility and neatness, which are valued in the competition.
How are the age categories determined and what is their significance?
Participants are divided into two age categories: 'Up to 18 years' and 'Above 18 years'. This ensures fair competition among peers. The age declaration on the letter, stating 'I certify that I am below/above the age of 18 as on January 1, 2026', is crucial for correct categorization and eligibility.
Share with other parents
Categories
WiWit
Never miss the right opportunities for your child
The WiWit app shows you only the ones that fit your child.
- Matched to your child's grade, age, and interests
- Deadline reminders so you never miss registration
- Every opportunity verified before it's listed
Related opportunities
National Cyber Security Slogan Writing Competition By MeitY
by Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India
Create catchy slogans for the 'Stay Safe Online' campaign by MeitY. A national competition for all Indians to promote cybersecurity awareness.
What your child could gain:
Design Championship - Movie Making Competition
by ARK Infosolutions Private Limited
A national-level online competition for students aged 14-16 to create a short film based on a theme, showcasing their filmmaking and storytelling skills.
What your child could gain:
IWP Jr Creative Writing Contest: Personal Expression Category
by Venture of Athenas Eduverse Private Limited
An online creative writing contest for students in grades 2-12, offering cash prizes, national publication, and certificates for personal expression in stories and poems.
What your child could gain:
See what fits your child
Get the free app