India, Sept. 12 -- When the Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) was launched on April 1, 2003, veterans were promised quality healthcare that would honour their sacrifices. The scheme's motto - "Accessible, affordable and efficient healthcare to the ex-service personnel and their dependents" - filled the proud veterans with optimism.

But 22 years on, they find themselves questioning whether this noble vision has served the purpose it meant to. Delays in reimbursements have become common, forcing many veterans to spend from their pockets for immediate medical needs.

The infrastructure remains inadequate, polyclinics are understaffed, essential medicines are frequently unavailable, and specialised services are scarce. At times...