Remembering your PIN code is set to become tougher but your letter could reach you faster. The government has moved a proposal to increase the digits in postal index number - or PIN - from the present six to eight for easy sorting of mail and to meet international standards.

The proposal, likely to be implemented next year, would make the postman's job much easier because the last two digits would identify the "beat" (specific mohalla). "It will help in speedier delivery of mail," a communications ministry official said.

A PIN code for New Delhi, say 110001, covers post offices in as many as 19 areas, including Connaught Place, Constitution House, Eastern Court, Janpath, Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi GPO and Pragati Maidan to name a few.

"Our postmen have developed their identification skills fantastically over the years. It is hard work and experience that enables them to deliver the mail despite the confusion. The new system will be much better," the official said.

Under the new system, a person living near Pragati Maidan for example, could have a PIN code like 110001-11. The first six digits would identify his broader area (New Delhi), but the last two would zero down almost to his exact house.

The US began with a 5-digit zip code and later added four more digits. The American system is now known as Zip+4. The Indian system, when in place, would be something like PIN+2.

In 1941, Germany became the first country to introduce a postcode system. UK and US followed in 1959 and 1963. PIN was introduced in India as late as August 15, 1972. Even now, all countries do not have a postal code system.

In 2005, only 117 of the 190 member countries of the Universal Postal Union had post codes. The exceptions include Ireland, Hong Kong, Panama and Vietnam.