ECHS no longer cashless or capless, Congress leader Colonel Rohit Chaudhary (Retd.) said on Friday while accusing the Centre of weakening the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme through severe fund cuts.
Speaking as Chairman of the Congress’ Ex-Servicemen Department, Col Rohit Chaudhary said the scheme now faces a ₹12,000 crore funding shortfall, pushing it towards collapse. He added that the government provides only ₹2,000 crore annually, while the scheme requires nearly ₹14,000 crore to function properly.
Moreover, he stated that over 20 lakh ECHS beneficiaries face delayed medical bill payments. As a result, the scheme has failed to deliver its original promise of cashless and capless healthcare.
“The ECHS began in 2003 as a cashless and capless scheme. Today, it delivers neither,” Chaudhary said. He blamed government indifference for pending bills and operational stress.
Meanwhile, the Congress leader announced the launch of a nationwide ‘Save ECHS’ campaign. He warned that ex-servicemen would mobilise from streets to Parliament if the Centre ignores their demands.
Furthermore, Chaudhary urged the government to release the full ₹14,000 crore budget by January 30. He also demanded immediate clearance of pending bills, manpower strengthening and better remuneration for healthcare staff.
ECHS serves retired defence personnel and their families through a wide hospital network. However, Chaudhary said the scheme urgently needs support to protect those who once protected the nation.
