CBSE Announces UPU 2026 International Letter Writing Competition for Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued Circular No. Acad-04/2026 dated 13 January 2026, informing schools about the 55th Universal Postal Union (UPU) 2026 International Letter Writing Competition for Young People. The competition is being organised by the Department of Posts, Government of India, in coordination with the Universal Postal Union (UPU)

✉️ Theme of UPU 2026 Letter Writing Competition

“Write a letter to a friend about why human connection matters in a digital world.”

This theme encourages students to reflect deeply on emotional bonding, communication, and relationships in an era dominated by digital technology.

👩‍🎓 Eligibility Criteria

1. The competition is open to students aged 9 to 15 years.
2. Participation is through CBSE-affiliated schools.

🖊️ Content & Format

• The composition must be written in the form of a letter only.
• Entries should reflect originality, clarity of thought, and creativity.

🗓️ Important Dates

• Schools must ensure that student entries reach the respective Postal Circles by 20 March 2026.
• The Circles will evaluate all entries, and the best three entries from each Circle must reach the Directorate by 31 March 2026.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

🟡 Prizes at Circle Level

• First Prize: ₹25,000 and a Certificate
• Second Prize: ₹10,000 and a Certificate
• Third Prize: ₹5,000 and a Certificate

🔵 Prizes at National Level

• First Prize: ₹50,000 and a Certificate
• Second Prize: ₹25,000 and a Certificate
• Third Prize: ₹10,000 and a Certificate

🌍 International Level (UPU)

• Gold, Silver & Bronze Medals
• Certificates and additional prizes
• The Gold Medalist may receive an opportunity to visit the UPU Headquarters in Berne, Switzerland, or an alternative prize decided by UPU
• Special Mentions will also receive certificates and prizes 

📌 Mandatory Details to be Included on the First Page

It must be ensured that each and every entry carries the following details on its first page, written in bilingual format (both English and Hindi):

1. Candidate’s passport-size photograph

2. Candidate’s full name

3. Date of Birth

4. Gender (Male / Female)

5. Father’s / Guardian’s name

6. Name of the School / Institution along with full address

7. Complete postal address of the candidate

For further information, schools and students may contact the Chief Postmaster General / Postmaster General / Director Postal Services / Nodal Officer of their respective Circle or Region.

Additional details will also be made available on the Department of Posts website:
👉 www.indiapost.gov.in

More Details

CBSE has advised all affiliated schools to actively organise this competition in collaboration with Postal Department Nodal Officers and encourage maximum student participation. This is a golden opportunity for young writers to make their voice heard at a global platform.

📄 Reference: CBSE Academic Circular No. Acad-04/2026 - CLICK HERE