The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) provides cashless medical facilities to eligible ex-servicemen and their dependents. To avail ECHS benefits, obtaining an ECHS Smart Card is mandatory.
This guide explains the complete ECHS Smart Card application process in a simple step-by-step manner.
What Is an ECHS Smart Card?
The ECHS Smart Card is a biometric-enabled health card used to access medical services at ECHS polyclinics and empanelled hospitals across India.
Who Can Apply for an ECHS Smart Card?
- Ex-servicemen drawing pension
- Family pensioners
- War widows / NOK
- Disabled soldiers
- Eligible dependents
⚠️ Ex-servicemen not drawing pension are NOT eligible
Categories of Applicants
You must select the correct category while applying:
- Future Retiree
- Temporary Slip Holder
- Old Smart Card Holder (16KB / 32KB)
- Pensioners retired between 01 Apr 1996 – 31 Mar 2003
- Pensioners retired before 01 Apr 1996
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Registration
- Visit official ECHS website
- Register using email ID + mobile number
- Verify OTPs
Step 2: Eligibility Check
- Enter Aadhaar & DOB
- Add dependents (if any)
- System verifies eligibility automatically
Step 3: Detailed Application
- Upload photograph & signature
- Enter service details
- Select Regional Centre & Polyclinic
Step 4: Upload Documents
- PPO
- Discharge book
- Affidavits
- Medical certificates (if applicable)
Step 5: Payment
- ₹177 per Smart Card (online payment)
- Separate card for each dependent
Step 6: Temporary Slip
- Download temporary slip
- Valid until Smart Card is issued
Step 7: Card Collection & Activation
- Collect card from Station HQ
- Activate via SMS using registered mobile number