What is PIN Code? Complete Meaning and Format Explained
Understanding India's PIN Code System
PIN Code is the backbone of India's postal system. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about PIN codes.
PIN Code Full Form
PIN Code stands for Postal Index Number. It is sometimes also called PIN or Pincode.
History of PIN Code in India
The PIN code system was introduced by India Post on August 15, 1972 by then Union Minister for Communications, Shri Satish Chandra. The system was designed to simplify mail sorting and delivery across India's vast geography.
6-Digit PIN Code Structure
Each PIN code consists of 6 digits with specific meaning:
- 1st Digit - Region (8 geographical regions + 1 for Army Postal Service)
- 2nd Digit - Sub-region or state circle
- 3rd Digit - Sorting district within the region
- 4th-6th Digits - Individual post office code
Regional Classification
| First Digit | Region | States Covered |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern | Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Chandigarh |
| 2 | Northern | Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand |
| 3 | Western | Rajasthan, Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu |
| 4 | Western | Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa |
| 5 | Southern | Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka |
| 6 | Southern | Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, Lakshadweep |
| 7 | Eastern | West Bengal, Odisha, Arunachal Pradesh |
| 8 | Eastern | Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim, Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| 9 | APS | Army Postal Service |
Total PIN Codes in India
India has over 156,000 PIN codes covering all states, union territories, and remote areas. This extensive network ensures even the most remote villages have proper postal addresses.
PIN Code vs ZIP Code
While PIN code is used in India, ZIP code is used in the United States. Both serve the same purpose of identifying postal delivery areas.