Sending a Rakhi to a brother on Raksha Bandhan has become costlier; it will now cost ₹231 instead of ₹146..

Just ahead of the auspicious festival of Raksha Bandhan, the Department of Posts (India Post) has dealt a blow to sisters planning to send *rakhis* to brothers living away from home. If you are preparing to send a *rakhi*, sweets, or a gift to your brother via the post office this Raksha Bandhan, you will now have to shell out a bit more money.

The Department of Posts has significantly hiked the rates for parcels and Speed ​​Post. The new rates came into effect on August 1, 2026.

**How ​​much will it cost to send a parcel now?**
According to reports, the most significant change in parcel rates has been made in the initial weight category of up to 500 grams. Previously, the fee for sending a parcel weighing up to 500 grams was just ₹42; this has now been increased to a range of ₹77 to ₹84, depending on the destination.
Specifically, the charges will be ₹77 for intra-state delivery, ₹82 for metropolitan cities, and ₹84 for other states. Please note that GST charges will apply in addition to these fees.

To illustrate: if you have three brothers and are sending them *rakhis* via India Post, and the total weight of your parcel is approximately 500 grams, you will have to pay ₹231—whereas, under the previous rules, the cost would have been only ₹146.

**Speed ​​Post rates also hiked**
Along with parcel services, Speed ​​Post charges have also been increased. Previously, the cost for a Speed ​​Post shipment weighing up to 20 grams was ₹42; this has seen a direct hike of ₹14. Customers will now have to pay ₹56 for this service. The fee will increase further based on weight and distance.

**Why were the rates increased, and what is the department's new system?**
Officials from the Department of Posts state that this revision in parcel service rates has been implemented after several years. Under the new system, parcel charges will be determined not only by weight but also by distance and region. Consequently, the cost of sending parcels of the same weight to different locations will vary.

Will costs rise further during Raksha Bandhan?
Many people send rakhis, sweets, clothes, and gifts via post during the Rakhi festival. However, these new rates could significantly dampen the festive spirit. It is particularly important for those sending small parcels during the festival to check the costs before booking. The Postal Department's new rate structure distinguishes between local and long-distance deliveries. Additionally, extra charges apply as the weight increases; therefore, it is advisable to verify the applicable rate based on weight and destination before booking a parcel.

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