A Century-Old Legacy Rooted in Colonial India
This year’s Defence Estates Day carries special historical significance as it marks the 100th anniversary of the Department’s formal establishment. The roots of defence land administration in India date back to 1765, when the first cantonment was established in Barrackpore, West Bengal, following the consolidation of British military presence.
Over the next 150 years, cantonments were set up in key locations such as Danapur in 1766, Meerut in 1803, Ambala in 1843, and Delhi in 1915. These cantonments laid the foundation for structured military land management and municipal governance. The system was formally institutionalised on December 16, 1926, with the creation of the Department of Land and Cantonments under the Ministry of Defence.
Custodian of India’s Largest Government Land Bank
Today, the Defence Estates Department manages the largest landholding under the Government of India within the Ministry of Defence. The Department plays a critical role in balancing national security requirements with civic administration in cantonment areas that house both military and civilian populations.
Despite its deep historical roots, the Department has continuously evolved to meet modern governance challenges, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery in defence land administration.
Digital Transformation and E-Chhawani Initiative
A defining feature of the Department’s recent journey has been its push towards digital governance. The successful implementation of the E-Chhawani project has enabled 100 percent online municipal services for nearly 20 lakh residents living in cantonment areas across India.
Through this initiative, citizens can access services such as property tax payments, water connections, grievance redressal, and civic approvals through a unified digital platform, significantly improving ease of living and administrative efficiency.
Preserving Land Records Through Technology
The Defence Estates Department has undertaken comprehensive digitisation of legacy land records to preserve them for future generations. All historical documents have been secured through modern archival systems, reducing the risk of loss or tampering.
A nationwide, secure file management system has been adopted, allowing seamless retrieval and safe storage of records. The centralised ‘Raksha Bhoomi’ software platform now serves as the single authoritative repository of all defence land data, hosted on secure government servers.
Advanced Survey and Future-Ready Capabilities
Strengthening accuracy in land management, the Department has developed core expertise in land surveying by adopting advanced technologies such as Continuously Operating Reference Stations-enabled Differential Global Positioning System, Geographic Information System-based tools, and high-resolution satellite imagery.
A Centre of Excellence on Satellite and Unmanned Remote Vehicle initiatives has also been established, leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to develop next-generation solutions for defence land governance.
Recognised for Water Conservation Efforts
Beyond land management, the Department’s initiatives in water conservation and rejuvenation of water bodies have received national recognition. Its efforts earned the prestigious National Water Awards for Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari, underscoring its commitment to sustainable development.
As the Defence Estates Department steps into its centenary year, the celebrations reflect not only a rich historical legacy but also a forward-looking vision rooted in technology, sustainability, and public service.
