What is the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS)?

ECHS provides comprehensive medical facilities to ex-servicemen, their dependents, and now, cadets disabled during training, covering treatment at military and empanelled hospitals.

Why are disabled cadets fighting for ex-serviceman status?

Cadets disabled during training are seeking ex-serviceman status and disability pensions, which are currently provided to those inducted into the armed forces.

What role did the Supreme Court play for disabled cadets?

The Supreme Court intervened in August 2025 after media reports, leading to the extension of ECHS benefits for cadets disabled during their training.

Home / War and Conflict / Disabled Cadets Gain Medical Hope

Disabled Cadets Gain Medical Hope

1 Jan

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Summary

Cadets disabled during training now get free ECHS medical treatment.
Supreme Court intervened after media reports highlighted their plight.
Cadets continue to fight for disability pension and ex-serviceman status.

Officer cadets who were medically discharged due to training-related disabilities will now receive free treatment under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS). This development comes after the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of their situation in August 2025, leading to a Ministry of Defence order extending ECHS facilities. While this provides much-needed medical access, these cadets continue advocating for full disability pensions and ex-serviceman status.

Previously, these cadets faced substantial medical bills without adequate support, a struggle brought to light by extensive media reporting. The ECHS benefits, including cashless transactions and free treatment at military and empanelled hospitals, have already begun to alleviate financial burdens for individuals like Shubham Gupta and Kartik Sharma. The contributory component of ECHS has been waived for these cadets.