However, the last three digits are still at the research stage. “Such a service requires an active database which will take some time to be compiled. We will collaborate with bulk users, for example, telecom service providers like BSNL, to utilise their database, which can then be used for the census as well,” said the official.

Though the service is targeted mainly at corporate customers, the department has allocated Rs 10 crore to market it for personal mailers.

The department is also mulling providing incentives to corporate users. “We will push for the new code and may make its mandatory for bulk mailers. We can also look at ways to incentivise the service by offering discounts,” he said.

The official, however, clarified that “this is not a substitute to mailing addresses but is meant to improve efficiency and to avoid confusion over postal addresses.” The department, as part of efforts to increase its efficiency, is also planning to install machines for faster sorting out of letters in post offices. The official said 26 major cities would be equipped with these machines soon. “New Delhi and Kolkata will be able to use these machines by the middle of next year,” he said. One machine will be able to sort about 40,000 mails in an hour. Tenders for the machines have been invited and the project is expected to be in advanced stages by the end of 2009.