Extension of ECHS Benefits
The Union government has recently approved the extension of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) benefits to officer cadets who are medically invalidated during training due to disabilities caused or worsened by military training. This decision aims to provide much-needed medical support and financial relief to cadets who are currently ineligible for such benefits as they do not hold ex-servicemen status. The scheme will cover both current and future cases of medically boarded-out cadets from premier defence training institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA), Indian Military Academy (IMA), and Officers Training Academy (OTA).
Background
Officer cadets often face physical and medical challenges during rigorous military training. Those invalidated on medical grounds have not been entitled to ECHS benefits as they lack ex-servicemen status. The government’s recent approval changes this by allowing these cadets to access ECHS healthcare facilities. The move recognises the lifelong impact of disabilities acquired during training and seeks to reduce the financial and emotional strain on affected families.
Scope and Eligibility
The extension applies to cadets medically boarded out before completing their courses due to disabilities linked to training. They must apply for ECHS membership and should not be enrolled in any other government health scheme. Unlike regular ex-servicemen officers, these cadets will be exempted from paying the one-time subscription fee of Rs 1.2 lakh. The benefits are personal and non-transferable, limited to the cadet only.
Benefits Under ECHS
Eligible cadets will receive cashless and capless medical care under ECHS. This includes free outpatient department (OPD) services at over 448 polyclinics and comprehensive inpatient department (IPD) treatment at more than 3,000 empanelled hospitals across India. The scheme offers access to various investigations and procedures without direct payment, easing the financial burden on families.
Existing Support and Additional Relief
Currently, disabled cadets receive a monthly ex-gratia payment and a disability award ranging from 20% to 100% based on severity. The extension of ECHS benefits supplements these financial aids with quality healthcare support. This humanitarian step ensures better rehabilitation and medical care for cadets who sacrificed their health during training.
About the ECHS
Launched in April 2003, ECHS provides medical care to ex-servicemen and their dependents. It operates through 30 regional centres and a vast network of polyclinics and hospitals. With approximately 63 lakh beneficiaries, it is a mainstay of veteran welfare in India. The recent extension marks expansion of the scheme’s reach to include young cadets affected during training.
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