ECHS Salary Structure 2026, Check In Hand Salary and Job Profile

The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) operates under the Ministry of Defence to provide quality healthcare services to ex-servicemen and their dependents through a nationwide network of polyclinics. These facilities offer OPD services, diagnostics, and pharmacy support in both urban and remote locations.

To ensure smooth functioning of these healthcare centres, ECHS recruits qualified medical and paramedical professionals on a contractual basis. With the 2026 recruitment cycle approaching, candidates are keen to know about the ECHS Salary Structure 2026, in-hand pay, service conditions, and detailed job profiles for key healthcare posts.

ECHS Salary 2026

ECHS recruitment 2026 is conducted through Station Headquarters (Stn HQ) to fill essential medical and paramedical positions at ECHS Polyclinics. These polyclinics serve as the primary healthcare support system for veterans and their families across India.

Preference is given to eligible ex-servicemen, while civilian candidates may also be considered depending on availability and post-wise requirements. All appointments are made strictly on a contractual basis as per official employment guidelines.

ECHS Salary 2026 Overview

The ECHS recruitment process for 2026 focuses on hiring experienced healthcare professionals without conducting a written examination. Selection is based on eligibility, experience, and interview performance.

Candidates are shortlisted through application screening, followed by interviews and document verification. Final selection depends on merit, medical fitness, and availability of vacancies at the concerned polyclinic.

ECHS Salary Structure 2026

ECHS offers a fixed consolidated monthly salary to all contractual employees. No additional allowances such as DA, HRA, TA, or pension benefits are provided. The salary remains the same throughout the contract period. Although the employment is contractual, the salary structure is clearly defined and transparent, making it easier for candidates to assess their expected earnings.

In-Hand Salary

Since ECHS pays a consolidated amount without PF, pension, or allowance deductions, the in-hand salary is almost equal to the gross salary mentioned above. Only minimal statutory deductions, if applicable, may apply.

Nature of Employment at ECHS

ECHS appointments are purely contractual and do not fall under permanent government service. Employees are hired for a fixed duration and are not entitled to long-term service benefits such as promotions or retirement pensions. The standard contract period is one year (1 April to 31 March), subject to performance review. Based on conduct, performance, and organisational requirements, the contract may be extended.

Key features of employment:

Key points related to employment nature include:

• Fixed-term contract
• No pension or retirement benefits
• No government allowances
• Performance-based continuation
• Posting at ECHS Polyclinics

Working Hours

The working hours for ECHS staff are structured to ensure smooth healthcare delivery while maintaining operational discipline. Different schedules apply to specialist doctors and general medical or paramedical staff depending on their roles.

• Medical Specialist / Gynecologist: 30 hours per week (5 hours × 6 days)
• Medical Officer & Paramedical Staff: 48 hours per week (8 hours × 6 days)
• Sunday: Weekly holiday

Leave Entitlement

ECHS provides a fixed leave policy for contractual employees to ensure adequate rest and work-life balance. However, leave accumulation is restricted and must be used within the specified period.

• 2.5 days leave per completed month
• Leave lapses after six months if unused
• Sundays and gazetted holidays are additional

Termination Policy

The contractual nature of ECHS employment allows either party to end the service agreement under defined conditions. This ensures flexibility while maintaining professional discipline.

• Either party can terminate the contract with one month’s notice
• Unsatisfactory performance may lead to non-renewal
• Previously terminated ECHS employees are not eligible to reapply

ECHS Post-Wise Job Profile 2026

Each ECHS post has clearly defined responsibilities based on medical or paramedical functions. These roles ensure efficient patient care and smooth clinic operations.

Medical Specialist (MD/MS/DNB)

Medical Specialists handle advanced and complex medical cases at ECHS Polyclinics. Their expertise ensures high-quality diagnosis and treatment.

• Provide expert consultations
• Handle complex and referral cases
• Supervise clinical services
• Ensure quality medical care
• Guide junior medical staff

Medical Officer (MBBS)

Medical Officers manage daily OPD services and act as the first point of contact for patients.

• Conduct OPD consultations
• Diagnose and treat patients
• Maintain patient records
• Coordinate with paramedical staff
• Ensure smooth clinic functioning

Lab Assistant

Lab Assistants support diagnostic services by conducting medical tests and maintaining laboratory standards.

• Conduct laboratory tests
• Handle diagnostic equipment
• Prepare test reports
• Maintain sample records
• Follow safety protocols

Pharmacist

Pharmacists ensure proper dispensing and management of medicines prescribed by doctors.

• Dispense prescribed medicines
• Maintain drug inventory
• Store medicines properly
• Guide patients on medication use
• Keep pharmacy records updated

Nursing Assistant

Nursing Assistants support doctors in patient care and clinical procedures.

• Assist doctors in patient care
• Monitor vital signs
• Support medical procedures
• Maintain hygiene standards
• Help in patient recovery

Other Important Information for Applicants

Apart from salary and job roles, candidates must fulfil additional eligibility and documentation requirements before applying for ECHS posts. Applicants should carefully review age limits, experience criteria, and document requirements before submission.

Key Eligibility Points

• Age Limit:
  • Medical Specialist: Up to 70 years
  • Medical Officer: Up to 68 years
  • Paramedical Staff: Up to 58 years
• Experience:
  Minimum 5 years for most posts
• Medical Fitness:
  Mandatory medical fitness certificate required
• Documents Required:
  Aadhaar, PAN, education certificates, experience proof, medical registration
• Preference:
  Ex-servicemen receive reservation benefits