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.
