Pune: The Army has initiated construction of a new polyclinic under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) in Buldhana district, about 400 km from Pune, with the facility expected to benefit over 22,000 former servicemen and their families.Army officials said the groundbreaking ceremony for the polyclinic was held at Sagwan village recently. The land was formally handed over to the contractor for construction. The project is aimed to address long-standing gaps in healthcare availability for veterans, who have to travel long distances for treatment currently.Former directorof the sainik welfare department Col Suhas Jatkar told TOI: “The polyclinic will provide comprehensive outpatient care, diagnostic services and specialist consultations closer home. The facility will ensure timely medical attention, reduce treatment delays and lower expenses for ex-servicemen.”During the ceremony, senior army officers from the station headquarters in Bhusawal spoke with veterans to understand their concerns regarding healthcare access. Feedback gathered is expected to help improve service delivery.
