VP Dhankhar Calls for Optimal Utilization of Defence Land for National Progress

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 16th Dec. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, addressing the 7th Defence Estates Day Lecture, emphasized the transformative role of the Defence Estates in fostering sustainability and strengthening India’s defence ecosystem. Highlighting the management of 18 lakh acres of defence land, he lauded the efforts of the Defence Estates Organization in maintaining accurate land records and resolving disputes efficiently.

The Vice President stressed the need for innovative land use, urging the creation of self-sustaining ecosystems to enhance military readiness, community welfare, and nutritional security. He called for collaboration with agencies like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to develop herbal gardens and medicinal plant projects, setting global benchmarks in sustainable practices.

In the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047, Dhankhar highlighted the importance of productive land utilization and integrating ex-servicemen into developmental initiatives. He advocated structured mechanisms for dispute resolution and called for increased transparency and accountability in handling development projects involving defence estates.

“Defence estates must evolve into hubs of economic and sustainable activity, contributing significantly to national growth while setting benchmarks in research, organic farming, and innovation,” Dhankhar stated.

The Vice President’s address underlined the role of Defence Estates as a model of efficient land management, contributing to India’s strategic, economic, and environmental goals.