Manthan 2025, the two-day conference of Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) officers to devise a roadmap for Cantonment Boards, in line with the government’s Viksit Bharat @2047 vision, concluded with a roadmap aimed at transforming cantonments into models of sustainability, digital innovation, and citizen-centric governance.
The discussions highlighted ambitious plans for environmentally responsible, technologically advanced, and socially inclusive urban management.
The conclave outlined a target for carbon-neutral Cantonments by 2030, with net-zero emissions to be achieved through renewable energy grids, rooftop solar, biogas, and waste-to-energy plants. The initiative will also promote electric vehicle charging hubs, green transport, large-scale afforestation, and institutionalized carbon audits with annual sustainability reporting.
Looking ahead to 2035, cantonments are expected to evolve into smart, digitally enabled, and citizen-friendly ecosystems. Plans include the integration of smart power systems, AI-driven surveillance, e-mobility solutions, and water recycling, while balancing heritage preservation with modern infrastructure and amenities.
Inclusive development remains a key focus, with measures to ensure the welfare of the poor, senior citizens, differently-abled persons, and special children. Cantonments are set to provide barrier-free infrastructure and accessible social facilities, reinforcing the principle of compassionate governance.
Digital-first service delivery will be strengthened through upgrades to the e-Chhawani 2.0 platform, including AI-based grievance redressal, multilingual support, smart health services, and tele-health solutions. Civic services are set to move entirely online, with data-driven monitoring and dashboards ensuring transparency and efficiency.
The conclave emphasized green leadership, highlighting biodiversity parks, waterbody rejuvenation, waste segregation, and recycling initiatives.