Important Update for Ex-Servicemen, Defence Pensioners, Widows and CSD Beneficiaries
The military authorities have provided a special facility for CSD beneficiaries who are unable to visit their Unit Run Canteen (URC) due to old age, illness, or physical incapacity. In such cases, the original CSD Smart Card holder may authorise an attendant, family member, or trusted friend to collect grocery items on their behalf from the URC. However, this facility is subject to certain conditions, and it is important for beneficiaries to understand the rules before using it.
Why is this Facility Needed?
Many Ex-Servicemen (ESM), war widows, and senior citizens face difficulties in personally visiting the URC due to:
- Old age
- Serious illness
- Physical disability
- Hospitalisation
- Other medically certified conditions
To ensure that such beneficiaries continue to receive essential canteen supplies, the authorities have allowed the collection of grocery items through an authorised attendant.
Who Can Be Authorised?
A CSD Smart Card holder may authorise:
- Spouse
- Son or daughter
- Other family members
- Caregiver or attendant
- Trusted friend or representative
The authorised person must carry the prescribed authorisation form and supporting documents while visiting the URC.
Grocery Items Allowed, Liquor Strictly Prohibited
One of the most important conditions of this facility is that it applies only to grocery items.
Important Restriction
- Grocery items can be collected by the authorised attendant.
- Liquor cannot be purchased or collected through an attendant.
- Personal presence of the original CSD beneficiary is mandatory for the purchase of liquor.
Therefore, beneficiaries should note that the authorisation facility is limited exclusively to grocery purchases.
Medical Certificate is Mandatory
To prevent misuse of the facility, military authorities require a medical certificate confirming that the beneficiary is unable to visit the URC personally.
The certificate must:
- Clearly mention the reason for inability to visit the URC.
- Be issued in the prescribed format.
- Be signed and certified by a competent medical authority.
Without a valid medical certificate, the authorisation request may not be accepted.
Details Required in the Authorisation Form
The prescribed form generally includes:
- Name of the CSD beneficiary
- Service Number
- CSD Smart Card details
- Name of the authorised attendant
- Relationship with the beneficiary
- Reason for inability to visit the URC
- Signature of the beneficiary
- Medical authority certification
Beneficiaries should ensure that all information is correctly filled before submission.
Download the CSD Authorisation Form
The prescribed Authorisation Form and Medical Certificate Format can be downloaded from the link below:
Download PDF:
CSD Attendant Authorisation Form PDF
It is advisable to contact your local URC for any additional instructions or verification requirements before visiting the canteen.
Key Points to Remember
- The facility is available only when the beneficiary is unable to visit the URC personally.
- A medical certificate in the prescribed format is compulsory.
- Only grocery items can be collected through an attendant.
- Liquor purchase is not permitted through an authorised representative.
- The attendant must carry all required documents and identification.
- URC authorities may verify the authenticity of the authorisation before issuing items.
A Major Relief for Elderly Veterans and Defence Families
This provision offers significant relief to elderly Ex-Servicemen, disabled veterans, war widows, and beneficiaries suffering from medical conditions. It ensures uninterrupted access to essential grocery items without requiring the beneficiary to physically visit the URC.
By following the prescribed procedure and submitting the required documents, eligible beneficiaries can conveniently authorise a trusted person to collect their grocery items from the canteen.
Conclusion
If you are a CSD Smart Card holder and are unable to visit your URC due to illness, old age, or physical incapacity, you may authorise an attendant to collect grocery items on your behalf. However, remember that this facility does not extend to liquor purchases, and a properly certified medical certificate is mandatory for availing the benefit.