How can Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's vision transform Cantonments?
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Synopsis
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh calls for an innovative transformation of Cantonment Boards into smart, sustainable urban centers, aligning with India's vision for 2047. This initiative aims to enhance civic amenities and ensure active citizen participation in governance.
Key Takeaways
- Transformation of Cantonment Boards into smart ecosystems is essential.
- Increased digital services for enhanced transparency and efficiency.
- Focus on citizen participation in planning and governance.
- Integration of renewable energy and smart technologies.
- Commitment to serve the underprivileged and ensure community welfare.
New Delhi, Sep 18 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) officers to reimagine Cantonment Boards as smart, sustainable, and green urban ecosystems, aligning with the government’s aspiration for a developed India by 2047, with 2035 as a pivotal benchmark.
During the keynote speech at Manthan 2025 – Strategic Roadmap to Viksit Bharat @2047, a two-day national conference hosted by the Directorate General of Defence Estates (DGDE) in New Delhi, the Defence Minister commended IDES officers for their dual responsibilities of overseeing over 18 lakh acres of defence land while ensuring civilian welfare across 61 cantonments.
He emphasized the necessity of evolving cantonments into modern cities by continuously enhancing systems and processes for more efficient, transparent, and citizen-friendly service delivery.
“We must amplify digital services to ensure that citizens can access transparent and timely services from home. Increasing citizen involvement is essential, allowing residents to become active participants in the future development of Cantonments,” he stated.
Singh further remarked: “Transforming Cantonment boards into modern, transparent, and accountable institutions is imperative to meet contemporary demands for services. It is our collective duty to provide Cantonment residents with superior civic amenities and an efficient grievance redressal system.”
He highlighted the importance of improving the ease of living and called for advancements in platforms like e-Chhawani 2.0, featuring AI-driven grievance redressal, multilingual services, and innovative healthcare facilities.
The Defence Minister stressed that future cantonments should incorporate renewable energy grids, EV charging stations, waste-to-energy plants, and AI-based surveillance systems, with particular attention to the welfare of the underprivileged, the disabled, the elderly, and special needs children.
He reaffirmed the necessity for financially independent IDES and Cantonment Boards, assuring full support from the government in this initiative.
Singh also acknowledged DGDE initiatives such as E-Connect, which aids small businesses and startups, as well as efforts to foster eco-friendly cantonments.
Prominent figures such as Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DGDE Shailendra Nath Gupta, and DGDE-designate Shobha Gupta were present at the event.
The conference included presentations on DGDE’s accomplishments in defence land governance and will continue with a second day featuring sessions led by senior officials and experts, including Attorney General R. Venkataramani and Deputy CAG Subir Malik.
Point of View
The call for modernizing Cantonment Boards resonates with the broader goal of national development. This initiative reflects a commitment to sustainability, citizen involvement, and technological integration, essential for a progressive future.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of transforming Cantonment Boards?
The primary goal is to develop Cantonment Boards into smart, sustainable urban ecosystems that enhance civic amenities and ensure efficient service delivery.
How does the government support IDES in this transformation?
The government is committed to offering full support to ensure IDES and Cantonment Boards achieve financial independence and implement necessary innovations.
What role do digital services play in this initiative?
Digital services are vital for providing transparent, efficient, and timely access to services for residents, promoting greater citizen engagement.
What initiatives are being promoted alongside this transformation?
Initiatives like E-Connect are being promoted to support small businesses and startups while fostering eco-friendly practices in Cantonments.
What technologies are being considered for future cantonments?
Future cantonments will integrate renewable energy grids, EV charging stations, waste-to-energy plants, and AI-based surveillance systems to enhance living standards.
