The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from the Centre and defence forces on the difficulties faced by cadets who are medically discharged from premier military institutes after sustaining disabilities during training.
A bench of Justices B.V. Nagarathna and R. Mahadevan took suo motu cognisance of the issue, asking the government to explore policy measures that would provide greater support to such cadets.
Insurance & Rehabilitation Measures Suggested
The bench suggested that the Centre consider extending insurance cover to cadets undergoing rigorous training at institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Military Academy (IMA).
It also directed Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, to take instructions on enhancing the current ₹40,000 ex-gratia payment given to cadets disabled during training, noting that the amount is insufficient to meet rising medical expenses.
Further, the court asked the government to examine the possibility of a rehabilitation scheme, allowing such cadets to rejoin defence services in desk roles or other non-combat functions after medical treatment.
“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 observed.
The matter will next be heard on September 4.
Media Report Sparked Suo Motu Case
The case was registered on August 12 following a media report highlighting the plight of disabled cadets. According to the report, nearly 500 officer cadets have been discharged from training institutes since 1985 after suffering disabilities. Many now struggle with mounting medical bills, relying on a limited ex-gratia allowance.
At the NDA alone, about 20 cadets were medically discharged between 2021 and July 2025.
Lack Of Ex-Servicemen Benefits
One of the key concerns raised is that these cadets are not recognised as ex-servicemen, since their injuries occurred during training before commissioning. This excludes them from the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), which provides free medical treatment at military facilities and empanelled hospitals.
In contrast, soldiers who suffer disabilities in comparable situations are granted ex-servicemen status, entitling them to lifelong healthcare support.
Currently, cadets discharged on medical grounds receive only an ex-gratia of up to ₹40,000 per month, depending on the degree of disability — a sum that falls far short of actual medical and rehabilitation costs.
Way Forward
By flagging the issue, the Supreme Court has opened the door for possible policy reforms to address the long-standing grievances of disabled cadets.
The next hearing will determine whether the government commits to insurance, higher compensation, and rehabilitation opportunities, ensuring that those who sacrificed their health in training are not left behind.
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