Defence ministry makes Aadhaar verification mandatory for ECHS, ex-servicemen welfare benefits
Representative picture via AI generated
New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has introduced Aadhaar authentication or proof of an Aadhaar number for veterans and dependents accessing the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) and Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund (RMEWF). The orders cover existing benefits and provide alternative identity verification arrangements to prevent eligible applicants being excluded.
The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare issued notifications S.O. 5482(E) for ECHS and S.O. 5483(E) for RMEWF on October 7. Published on October 12, when they took effect, both invoke Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, citing simpler procedures, transparency and efficient benefit delivery.
Both schemes receive funding from the consolidated fund of India, bringing the benefits within the scope of Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act. The notifications also direct ECHS authorities and the Kendriya Sainik Board to facilitate enrolment and updating of Aadhaar particulars, including through coordination with registrars and the provision of enrolment facilities at convenient locations.
The ECHS order covers membership, care at polyclinics, service hospitals and empanelled hospitals, and related claims. RMEWF assistance, administered by the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), includes support for eligible families facing hardship, education or marriage expenses and certain medical costs.
What if a beneficiary has no Aadhaar?
The RMEWF notification states: “In case such an individual has not been assigned an Aadhaar number, he shall be required to make an application for enrolment”. Pending assignment, applicants can present an Aadhaar enrolment acknowledgement with an enrolment ID and an authorized identity document.
Adults may use a photograph bearing voter card, passport, driving licence, ration card, government service identity card or qualifying disability document. A matriculation certificate is also permitted where it meets the notification’s photograph requirement.
Children require prescribed age and relationship documents, such as a birth certificate and qualifying proof linking them to a parent or guardian. The ECHS notification states: “Provided that if that individual is a child, such application shall be made only with the consent of his parent or legal guardian.”
Safeguards against loss of benefits
If fingerprint, iris or facial authentication fails, officials must offer another biometric method or a one-time password wherever feasible. Offline verification through a digitally signed Aadhaar QR code or electronic know your customer document is also allowed when other methods cannot be used.
Children cannot be denied eligible benefits solely because Aadhaar authentication fails or an Aadhaar number has not yet been issued, provided their identity and relationship with a parent or legal guardian are established through the prescribed procedure.
Records of benefits granted through this arrangement must be maintained, periodically reviewed and audited. For beneficiaries aged 18 years or above, the authorities must follow the exception handling mechanism prescribed in the Direct Benefit Transfer Mission’s memorandum dated December 19, 2017, to prevent eligible applicants from being deprived of assistance.
The ECHS website lists an October 14 advisory on verification through the Beneficiary Satyapan app for medical claims and cashless admission. Veterans can approach their ECHS polyclinic or call 1800 114 115, while welfare applicants can seek assistance through Sainik Board offices.
