Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar laid the foundation stone for construction of the building of Pay Accounts Office (Other Ranks) PAO (ORs), Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre (RRRC) at Delhi Cantt. here today. Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Secretary congratulated the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) and Defence Accounts Department (DAD) who, he said, continue to work relentlessly in the service of the nation. He also congratulated the personnel of RRRC who will be benefitted through this building.Dr Ajay Kumar applauded the efforts and measures taken by CGDA to move forward on a progressive path by envisaging the vision 2024 for the department. He said, this would usher in a new era and make DAD more efficient, helping it to play its role more efficiently. He also appreciated the digital initiatives taken by the department and automating its activities in various areas of work.In his address, CGDA Shri Sanjiv Mittal said, PAO has set high standards in all areas of work and aims to take this organisation to greater heights by providing best services in audit and accounting among others. The CGDA highlighted the initiatives taken by DAD to encourage e-payments. These include introduction of online payments in Account Officer Garrison Engineers (AO GEs) through State Bank of India-Cash Management Product (SBI-CMP); SBI-CMP for Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) payments and Direct Bank Transfer for pay and allowances in respect of Defence Civilians in line with Digital India Theme.Chief of Staff, Delhi Area Maj Gen Alok Kacker and other civil and military officials were also present at the occasion.