The Army Canteen, an exclusive facility for the Indian Armed Forces personnel, offers goods at significantly lower prices compared to the market. Here’s an overview of how the Army Canteen operates and who can access it.
Key Highlights
What is Army Canteen?
- Establishment: The Canteen Stores Department (CSD) was established in 1948 to cater to the Indian Armed Forces.
- Products Offered: Ranges from groceries to clothes, shoes, electronics, and more.
- Location: Located at major military bases across the country and operated by army personnel.
- Number of Units: There are approximately 3,700 unit-run canteens across India.
Access and Eligibility
- Exclusivity: The Army Canteen is exclusively available to serving and retired army personnel and their families. Over 1.3 million individuals benefit from CSD.
- Smart Cards: Army personnel are issued smart cards for purchasing goods from the canteen. There are two types of smart cards – one for groceries and electronics, and the other for liquor.
- Restrictions: The general public cannot shop from Army Canteens.
Why are Goods Cheaper?
- GST Exemption: According to an ABP Live report, the government offers up to a 50% discount on GST for products sold at CSD canteens, making the items cheaper.
- Spending Limits: The army has set a limit on the amount each soldier can spend at these canteens to prevent excessive shopping.
In Short Now.
The Army Canteen in India provides a significant financial benefit to the armed forces community by offering goods at discounted prices. However, access is restricted to the military personnel and their families, reflecting the canteen’s purpose to serve those who serve the nation.
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
