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The Canteen Stores Department (CSD) operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, and plays a vital role in ensuring the welfare of armed forces personnel and their families. Its primary objective is to provide access to high-quality consumer goods at subsidized prices, thereby enhancing the standard of living for members of the defence community.
Functions of the Canteen Stores Department under the Ministry of Defence
The Canteen Stores Department (CSD) operates under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, and plays a vital role in ensuring the welfare of armed forces personnel and their families. Its primary objective is to provide access to high-quality consumer goods at subsidized prices, thereby enhancing the standard of living for members of the defence community.
1. Procurement and Distribution of Goods
One of the core functions of the CSD is the procurement and distribution of a wide array of consumer goods. These include essential items such as groceries, toiletries, household products, food items, alcoholic beverages, electronics, and even vehicles. Goods are procured directly from manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring both quality and cost efficiency. The distribution is carried out through a well-established network comprising 34 Area Depots and approximately 3,600 Unit Run Canteens (URCs) spread across the country.
2. Subsidized Pricing
CSD offers products at prices significantly lower than those in the open market. This is made possible by purchasing in bulk and availing tax exemptions (such as GST), which are not typically available to civilian retail outlets. The resulting cost savings are passed on to the beneficiaries, making quality goods more affordable.
3. Welfare and Support
The department is fundamentally aligned with the welfare objectives of the Ministry of Defence. By ensuring easy access to everyday goods at reduced rates, the CSD directly contributes to the well-being of serving and retired personnel, veterans, and their dependents.
4. Expanding Beneficiary Base
While initially established to serve the needs of active and retired armed forces personnel, the CSD has extended its services to other eligible groups. These include the Indian Coast Guard, Border Roads Organization (BRO), Defence Civilians paid from defence estimates, and Paramilitary forces operating under Army control. Select civilian government employees are also included in the beneficiary network, broadening the reach of CSD services.
In support of the Digital India initiative, the CSD has launched an online portal that enables beneficiaries to purchase high-value items such as automobiles and electronics from the comfort of their homes. This step has significantly improved convenience and transparency in the procurement process. Online Services: CSD introduced an online portal (https://afd.csdindia.gov.in/) for high-value items like cars and bikes.
Governance: Managed by civilian and military personnel, with oversight by senior officers from the Ministry of Defence.
6. Digitization and Operational Efficiency
CSD is continuously enhancing its operational framework through the adoption of automation and digital technologies. These efforts aim to streamline supply chains, reduce administrative costs, and improve the overall efficiency of the system. The end goal is to ensure greater customer satisfaction and value for the defence community.
Conclusion
The Canteen Stores Department stands as a vital support system within the Ministry of Defence. Through its extensive network and commitment to affordability, it ensures that India’s defence personnel and their families have consistent access to essential, high-quality goods. By blending welfare objectives with modern retail practices, the CSD continues to serve as a cornerstone of support for the nation’s armed forces.
Author of this site is a freelancer and Ex-servicemen. Due to facing difficulties on various orders relevant to ex-servicemen, as a humble step I decided to operate this site for use of millions of ex troop personnel facing the same situation.
