In a move aimed at deepening financial inclusion and expanding access to investment products, the Department of Posts (DoP) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE) to facilitate the distribution of mutual fund products through the vast India Post network. The agreement seeks to leverage India Post’s extensive reach of over 1.64 lakh post offices across the country, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions, to provide citizens with access to capital market-linked investment options. Expanding Financial Access Through Postal NetworkUnder the collaboration, the Department of Posts will work with NSE’s digital mutual fund transaction platform, which enables end-to-end processing of investments — from order placement to settlement — in compliance with Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulations.The initiative is expected to enhance last-mile connectivity for mutual fund distribution, especially in areas where formal financial advisory and investment infrastructure remain limited.Training and Certification of Postal EmployeesAs part of the arrangement, selected postal department employees will be identified and trained to function as certified mutual fund distributors. These employees will be required to obtain mandatory certifications, including the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) certification, and complete Employee Unique Identification Number (EUIN) registration before offering investment services. Once certified, they will be able to distribute mutual fund products and provide related investor services through NSE’s platform, subject to regulatory compliance.The agreement will remain valid for three years from the date of signing and may be renewed upon mutual consent.Phased Implementation With Pilot RolloutThe collaboration will be implemented in phases, beginning with a pilot project in selected locations. Based on its performance and operational readiness, the initiative is expected to be scaled up gradually across the country.
India Post to offer mutual funds through 1.64 lakh post offices after pact with NSE
