New Delhi, July 14: Defence Minister of State Sanjay Seth reviewed several key aspects during the 80th Control Board meeting of the Canteen Services Department (CSD). The meeting emphasized the modernization of CSD depots across the country, subsidies for electric two-wheelers, promotion of indigenous and cooperative products, and improved facilities for ex-servicemen and their families.

Progress in including products from cooperative societies and indigenous organizations in the CSD supply chain was also reviewed. Seth noted that items produced by Khadi and Village Industries, tribal products, farmer organizations, and various cooperatives are being gradually incorporated into the CSD product portfolio.

He stated that this initiative not only aims to diversify CSD products but also directly benefits artisans, farmers, tribal communities, and cooperatives by providing them with a larger market and boosting indigenous manufacturing. This initiative will also strengthen national campaigns like Atmanirbhar Bharat, Samriddhi through Cooperation, and Vocal for Local. The meeting, held in Ranchi, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the three armed forces, and the Canteen Services Department.

The objective of the meeting was to make CSD operations more modern, transparent, and beneficiary-centric, ensuring better services for serving soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their dependents. A significant topic of discussion was the proposal to increase budgetary support for CSD. Additionally, plans for modernizing CSD depots across the country were thoroughly discussed.

Officials reported that in response to rising demand and changing needs, depots are being developed as modern storage and logistics centers. Another important topic was the extension of central and state government subsidies for electric two-wheelers purchased through CSD. This move could provide soldiers and ex-servicemen with additional benefits when buying environmentally friendly vehicles. The meeting also included serious discussions on ensuring the availability of assistive devices for disabled soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their dependents.

Officials considered expanding the scope of facilities while keeping in mind the special needs of this group. During his visit to Ranchi, Sanjay Seth inspected the CSD depot in Ramgarh, one of five pilot depots selected for modernization. He reviewed the existing infrastructure and ongoing upgrade works. The government’s plan is to transform these depots into modern warehouses and logistics centers to make the distribution system faster, more effective, and technology-enabled.

According to officials, the Ramgarh model will serve as a basis for the modernization of other CSD depots across the country in the future. This will not only strengthen the supply system but also make it easier for soldiers and ex-servicemen to access goods.

The Defence Minister of State also reviewed various initiatives related to the welfare of ex-servicemen and appreciated efforts to make the service delivery system more accessible and convenient. He emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of current and former defence personnel and assured that effective implementation of beneficiary-centric schemes will be ensured.

He urged officials to focus on continuous innovation, better management, and timely implementation, stating that preparing CSD for future needs is the demand of the time, so that the best facilities can be provided to the country’s soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families.

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