On July 8, 2026, a Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) became operational at the Thavanur Sub Post Office in Malappuram district, Kerala. Falling under the jurisdiction of the Regional Passport Office, Kozhikode, this is the third POPSK established in the region.

Inauguration and Key Dignitaries

The ceremony was graced by Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi, who cut the ribbon, while Ponnani Lok Sabha MP Abdussamad Samadani presided over the event. The Ministry of External Affairs hailed the launch as a milestone, noting that every Lok Sabha constituency in Kerala now hosts at least one Passport Seva Kendra or POPSK.

Local Benefits and Service Capacity

The Thavanur POPSK aims to streamline passport services for residents of the Ponnani constituency and adjoining areas, cutting down both travel distance and prolonged waiting periods. Initially, the centre will process up to 50 passport applications per day, with plans to scale up to 100 daily in the coming months.

Online Booking and Procedure

Applicants can secure appointments through the official Passport Seva website www.passportindia.gov.in or the Passport Seva mobile app, a move that is expected to trim queue times and enhance transparency.

Future Implications

Local officials anticipate that the POPSK will stimulate regional economic activity. Faster documentation will benefit small businesses, the tourism sector, and young professionals planning overseas travel, thereby fostering broader socio‑economic growth.