A Philately Deposit Account (PDA) is a special account maintained at a Post Office’s Philatelic Bureau.
It’s meant for stamp lovers who want to regularly buy stamps, special covers, first day covers, and other philatelic items — even if they can’t visit the Post Office in person.
For students applying for the Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana Scholarship, having a PDA is essential if their school doesn’t have a Philately Club.
Why Open a PDA?
- Mandatory for SPARSH Scholarship if no School Philately Club exists.
- Allows you to order philatelic materials by post.
- Ensures you don’t miss limited edition or special release stamps.
- Keeps your philately budget separate and organised.
Where Can You Open It?
You can open a PDA at:
- Philatelic Bureaus located in major Head Post Offices or General Post Offices.
- All designated Head Post Offices with philatelic facilities.
Tip: To find your nearest Philatelic Bureau, visit the India Post Philately Website and check the list of bureaus.
Documents You’ll Need
- Filled PDA Opening Form (available at the Philatelic Bureau or click here).
- Passport-size photograph.
- Identity proof (Student ID card, Aadhaar, or other valid ID).
- Proof of address (if not on ID).
Minimum Deposit
- Usually ₹200 for new accounts.
- You can deposit more if you plan to buy more stamps or covers regularly.
Step-by-Step Process to Open Philately Deposit Account
- Visit the Philatelic Bureau at your nearest Head Post Office.
- Ask for the PDA Opening Form and fill it neatly in BLOCK letters.
- Specify your standing order (this is important):
- Choose what items you want to receive.
Tip: For SPARSH students, a sensible starter combo is: Commemorative stamps + Miniature sheets + FDC (1 each) + Quarterly.
- Choose how often you want them sent (monthly/quarterly/half‑yearly/annual).
- Attach the required documents and one passport photo.
- Deposit the minimum amount (₹200, or as per local rule).
- Submit the form. Collect your PDA number (and receipt).
- You’re set. The bureau will issue items as per your standing order and deduct the cost from your PDA.
How to Use Your Philately Deposit Account (PDA)
1. Ordering Stamps & Covers
- You will automatically receive the stamps and philatelic materials you selected in your PDA application form.
- If you want to change your order (items or frequency), visit the Post Office where you opened the account and submit a written request with your PDA number.
- The cost of items will be directly deducted from your PDA balance.
2. Adding Funds to Your PDA
- Visit any nearest Post Office (Sub Office / Head Post Office / General Post Office).
- Go to the MPCM counter (Multi-Purpose Counter).
- Give your PDA account number and tell them you want to recharge the account.
- Deposit the desired amount in cash.
- Collect the receipt and keep it safe for your records.
3. Account Validity
- Maintain at least ₹200 minimum balance in your account.
- If your balance drops to ₹200 and you don’t recharge, your philatelic supply will be paused until funds are added.
4. Closing Your PDA
- Go to the Post Office where the account was opened.
- Give a written application to close the PDA.
- After closure, collect the remaining balance from the account.
Tips for Students & Parents
- Keep your PDA account details safe.
- Always note the date and amount of deposits and purchases.
- Follow India Post’s stamp release calendar to plan purchases.
- For SPARSH Yojana, keep your PDA proof/receipt ready for application.
📌 Remember: A PDA is your direct connection to India Post’s philatelic treasures — and for many students, it’s the ticket to eligibility for the SPARSH Scholarship.
