Ex-cadets deserve a fair deal

THE rigours of military training take a lot out of cadets at premier institutes such as the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy. Some of them suffer the misfortune of being invalided on medical grounds due to causes attributed to or aggravated by the training. At a young age, their much-cherished dream of joining the armed forces lies shattered and an uncertain future awaits them. Finally, the unfortunate ones and their families are seeing a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. Taking suo motu notice of the plight of these one-time aspirants, the Supreme Court has sought the response of the Centre and the armed forces. The court has asked the Centre whether a scheme can be rolled out for ex-cadets, such as a group medical insurance plan or a one-time ex gratia payment. The SC is also keen to know whether those who recover from their injuries can be accommodated in the forces in some capacity, such as desk work.

The devil is in the rules, as per which boarded-out trainees can’t be granted the status of ex-servicemen, which would have made them eligible under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme for free treatment at military facilities and empanelled hospitals. The fact that they became disabled during training — before they could be commissioned as officers — should not be held against them. Whether it is rehabilitation or employment, officer trainees should be treated on a par with recruits, who are covered under various Central and state government schemes.

A discriminatory approach can demoralise young Indians who are passionate about serving the nation in uniform. A freak accident must not be the end of the world for cadets. They should be given a fair chance to rebuild their lives and rededicate themselves to the military motto of Seva Parmo Dharma (service is the highest duty).

Editorials