Overview of ECHS Smart Card Process
All Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and primary beneficiaries are required to apply for the new 64 KB ECHS smart card via the ECHS online portal. The process includes completing the online application and making the necessary payment. Once this is done, the application is sent to the respective Record Office for verification. After verification, it is forwarded to the vendor for card printing.
Once printed, the cards are sent to the regional centre and then dispatched to the respective Parent Polyclinic. Upon arrival, a notification (SMS with OTP) is sent to the registered mobile number of the ESM/Primary Beneficiary, allowing them to collect the card from the Parent Polyclinic.
Responsibility for Data Accuracy
It is the responsibility of the ESM or primary beneficiary to ensure that the information provided in the online application is correct. The Record Office verifies this information before printing the ECHS smart card. However, some errors may still occur in the printed data. To address these issues, specific guidelines have been established.
Checking for Incorrect Data
Once the new ECHS smart card is collected, it is essential to verify that all information printed on the card is accurate. If any discrepancies are found, the ESM/Primary Beneficiary should log in to the ECHS portal at https://echs.sourceinfosys.com/ to cross-check the information provided during the online application process.
Applying for Data Correction
If the data printed on the card matches the application but is still incorrect, the ESM/Primary Beneficiary must apply for a data correction. However, corrections can only be applied for after the ECHS smart card has been electronically handed over.
To initiate this process:
- Log in to the ECHS portal.
- Navigate to the “Block Card” section and select the checkbox for the card needing correction.
- Select “Change in Data” and specify the reason (e.g., incorrect name, date of birth).
- Submit the application; this will block the current card.
Editing the Data
Once the card is blocked, the beneficiary must go to the “Change Data” section and select the “Edit” option. A blank column will appear under each field, where the beneficiary can enter the correct information.
There are two types of data fields:
- Read & Write Fields (marked in green): These fields can be edited without requiring payment.
- Read-Only Fields (marked in yellow): Changing these fields requires an online payment of INR 177 per card.
After submitting the application, visit the ECHS Polyclinic Kiosk to update the card. If only “Read & Write” fields are changed, the card will be updated immediately. If “Read-Only” fields are changed, the application will go through a verification process by the Record Office and then forwarded to the vendor for card reprinting.
Temporary ECHS Slip
After making the payment, the beneficiary can immediately download an online temporary slip with the current data. However, a temporary slip with the corrected data can only be downloaded once the Record Office verifies the changes. The slip must be countersigned by the OIC of the Parent Polyclinic to continue receiving medical coverage.
Reviewing the Requested Changes
The requested changes before verification are not visible in the main application. To view or edit the requested changes, go to the “Change of Data” tab and select “View” or “Edit” for that specific beneficiary.
Reverting an application
If changes have been verified but further corrections are needed, the beneficiary must go to the “Revert Application” section, specify the reason, and await Record Office approval. Once approved, the application can be edited again.
Impact on Dependent Cards
If changes are made to the primary beneficiary’s read-only fields, all dependent ECHS smart cards will also be blocked. Payment for these dependent cards will be required along with the primary card. If no changes are made to the dependent’s fields, the application will be verified for all cards simultaneously. However, if any dependent’s field is changed, that particular card will need separate verification.
By following these steps and ensuring the data is correct, beneficiaries can smoothly manage their ECHS smart cards, making necessary changes and continuing to avail of their entitlements without interruption.
Must Read: Your Complete Guide to the ECHS Beneficiary App.
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