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ECHS Guide

ECHS Card Types Explained

The 64 KB smart card, individual cards for each beneficiary, and what to do if it's lost or expired

Quick answer

The ECHS smart card is a chip-based PVC card (the newer version uses a 64 KB chip) that records a beneficiary’s entitlement and is used to access care at polyclinics and empanelled hospitals. An individual card is generally issued to each eligible member, including dependents.

What the smart card replaced

Earlier ECHS used temporary slips and older cards. The current 64 KB smart card holds beneficiary and entitlement data on a chip, making verification at polyclinics and empanelled hospitals quicker and more reliable.

One card per beneficiary

Rather than a single family card, an individual smart card is generally issued to the primary pensioner and to each eligible dependent (spouse, dependent children, dependent parents). Each card carries that person’s entitlement.

Lost, damaged or expired card

  • Apply for a duplicate/replacement via the ECHS online portal and your parent polyclinic.
  • Keep your beneficiary details noted somewhere safe in the meantime.
  • For home medicine delivery you don’t need the card each time — a valid prescription is enough; your card is uploaded once and kept on file.
Card issue, renewal and replacement are handled by ECHS. Use the official portal and your parent polyclinic; details at echs.gov.in (helpline 1800-114-115). See also our ECHS smart card renewal guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ECHS 64 KB smart card?

It is the chip-based PVC smart card issued to ECHS beneficiaries that stores entitlement details and is used to access care at polyclinics and empanelled hospitals. The newer cards use a 64 KB chip.

Does each family member get a separate ECHS card?

Yes. An individual smart card is generally issued to each eligible beneficiary — the primary member and each dependent — rather than a single family card.

What do I do if my ECHS card is lost?

Apply for a duplicate/replacement through the ECHS online portal and your parent polyclinic, following the current procedure. Until then, keep your beneficiary details handy.

Can I order medicines if my ECHS card is being renewed?

Yes. For home delivery you only need a valid prescription; upload it and a registered pharmacist arranges your medicines while your card matter is sorted.

Army Medicine Supplier is an independent licensed pharmacy and is not part of ECHS. This guide is general information.

Card being renewed but need medicines now? Upload your prescription — delivery only needs a valid prescription.