SC Asks Centre To Extend Insurance Cover To Cadets Suffering Disability During Training

The Supreme Court has requested the Centre's response on the challenges faced by cadets who are medically discharged from military institutes due to disabilities sustained during training. The court is urging for insurance coverage, increased ex-gratia payments, and rehabilitation opportunities within defence roles for these cadets.

A bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan highlighted the need for insurance coverage for cadets undergoing rigorous training at various military institutes. This would address potential risks of death or disability. The bench also asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati to consider raising the ₹40,000 ex-gratia amount provided to disabled cadets to cover medical expenses.

Rehabilitation and Support

The court further suggested that the Centre devise a scheme to reintegrate these disabled cadets into defence roles, such as desk jobs or other related positions, once their treatment concludes. "We want braveheart cadets to be in the forces. We don't want injuries or disability to be any kind of deterrent to these cadets, who undergo training after clearing various competitive examinations," the bench remarked.

The issue was brought to light following a media report which indicated that around 500 officer cadets have been medically discharged since 1985 due to disabilities incurred during training. These individuals face significant medical bills with an ex-gratia payment that falls short of their needs.

Ex-Servicemen Status Concerns

According to the report, at the National Defence Academy alone, about 20 cadets were medically discharged between 2021 and July 2025. These cadets do not qualify for ex-servicemen status, which would have granted them access to free treatment under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) at military facilities and empanelled hospitals.

The absence of ex-servicemen status means these officer cadets only receive an ex-gratia payment of up to ₹40,000 per month based on their disability level. This amount is insufficient for covering basic needs and medical expenses.

The Supreme Court registered this suo motu case on August 12 after a media report highlighted these issues faced by former trainees from prestigious institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Military Academy (IMA). The matter is scheduled for further hearing on September 4.