In the rugged hills of Sikkim, where winding roads, steep terrain, and harsh weather often turn simple journeys into exhausting challenges, the Indian Army has taken a quiet but powerful step to ease the lives of its veterans. In a move rooted in empathy and responsibility, the Army has begun home delivery of essential medicines for ex-servicemen, reaffirming that its bond with soldiers does not end when their service does. This initiative, launched by the Trishakti Corps, reflects a deeper philosophy—one where dignity, care, and gratitude form the backbone of veteran welfare.

Home Delivery of Medicines: A Lifeline for Veterans

As part of a pilot welfare initiative, the Indian Army, through the ECHS Polyclinic in Gangtok, has commenced home delivery of medicines for entitled veterans residing across Sikkim. The program is designed especially for those living in remote regions where access to healthcare facilities is physically demanding and time-consuming. According to official sources, the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Department of Posts and CSC e-Governance Services India Limited. This partnership ensures that medicines reach beneficiaries safely, on time, and without unnecessary procedural hurdles. For elderly veterans and those with mobility challenges, this service is not just about convenience—it is about continuity of care and peace of mind.

Reaching the Most Remote Beneficiaries

During the initial screening, the ECHS Polyclinic in Gangtok identified around 58 long-distance beneficiaries living in South, North, and West Sikkim. These veterans often had to travel long distances through difficult terrain to collect their medicines, a task that becomes increasingly daunting with age and health limitations. Many of them are senior citizens, some living alone or dependent on family members, where even a routine visit to a polyclinic can involve hours of travel and physical strain. By bringing medicines directly to their homes, the Army has effectively removed one of the biggest obstacles standing between veterans and their healthcare.

A Pilot with a Pan-India Vision

The Sikkim initiative is part of a broader pan-India effort under the Central Organisation Ex-Servicemen Health Scheme (ECHS), functioning under the Adjutant General’s Branch. Based on the success of this pilot, the Gangtok polyclinic has proposed expanding the service in the next phase to include more beneficiaries. The aim is clear: to improve accessibility, reduce the travel burden on veterans, ensure uninterrupted medical care, and enhance overall satisfaction among beneficiaries. If implemented widely, this model could significantly transform veteran healthcare delivery across remote and hilly regions of the country.

The Indian Army’s Philosophy of Veteran Welfare

This initiative underscores the Indian Army’s enduring belief that service to soldiers extends far beyond their years in uniform. Veteran welfare is not treated as an obligation but as a moral commitment, one that respects the years of sacrifice made by soldiers and their families. By integrating technology, civil institutions, and grassroots delivery mechanisms, the Army is ensuring that welfare schemes translate into real, tangible benefits on the ground.

One Commitment, Many Forms of Service

Whether through delivering medicines to a veteran’s doorstep or engaging citizens through innovative outreach programs, the Indian Army’s efforts in Sikkim reflect a singular commitment to serve the nation and its people in every possible way. These initiatives remind us that true service is not limited to combat roles. It lives on in compassion, care, and connection. In the quiet homes of veterans receiving their medicines and on the winding roads of East Sikkim echoing with civil–military collaboration, the Army continues to uphold its core values of duty, honour, and selfless service.