The two-day conference, Manthan 2025, held in New Delhi, focused on transforming Cantonment Boards into smart, green, and sustainable urban ecosystems aligned with India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. Addressing the Indian Defence Estates Service (IDES) officers, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for modernizing cantonments by enhancing service delivery efficiency and transparency, particularly through digital services and citizen participation. He called for initiatives that integrate renewable energy, electric vehicle charging stations, and AI-driven solutions, while stressing the importance of financial independence for IDES and Cantonment Boards. Key takeaways included a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality in cantonments by 2030 and to enhance the quality of living for residents, particularly vulnerable groups. The conference underscored the pivotal role of IDES in managing defense lands and fostering civic welfare, reflecting a broader strategic aim of developing resilient and inclusive urban frameworks within India’s defense infrastructure. This initiative is significant as it not only aims to modernize military-related urban areas but also enhances civilian integration and well-being, promoting a more effective governance model within these regions.