New Delhi: The Department of Posts, celebrating its 150 years, has decided to change the colour of uniform worn by postmen and Group D staff in the field units to Blue from Khaki.

The change of uniform will take effect from 1st October, 2004. The Department of Posts has issued orders to this effect, an official statement said today (Sep 3, 2004).

The new attire for male employees will be dark blue trousers and light blue full sleeves shirt. The female employees will have light blue colour sarees with dark blue border. The ladies will also have the option of blouse kameez, dark blue salwar and dupatta. The Departmental Logo will also be affixed on the uniform.

This meets a long-standing demand of the postmen and is aimed at giving a 'smart and corporate' look to the employees.

However, the old uniforms will also continue to be worn by the staff till the stocks get exhausted.

Postmen are enthusiastic about their new attire. Some of them said in the earlier Khaki dress, they were mistaken for constables and the texture of the Khaki material felt uncomfortable while doing field duty in the summer.