Life without WhatsApp can not be imagined in this era.  Information exchange with problem solving solutions for Exserviceman has been offered by Veterans Directorate which will provide you complete solutions of your query/problems related to SPARSH Pension, CSD, ECHS, KSB Welfare Schemes and Grievance redressal through WhatsApp.  It works with AI assisted helping hand for veterans and family pensioners/widows.  Using these simple steps you may use SAMBANDH  Chat boat facility through your mobile device on WhatsApp.

Step-1   :  Scan the QR Code below or  Click the SAMBANDH link here.  You will be re-directed to WhatsApp account of SAMBANDH.

Step – 2  :  Type Hi  and you will get a pdf document containing terms and conditions.  Read this and press I Accept.

Step 3 :  You will be asked your preferred language to use SAMBAND Chat Boat service on WhatsApp. Once you press on English / Hindi , you will get the list of service includes

• SPARSH & Pension issue
• ECHS
• Welfare Grants/Claims
• CSD
• Advisories
• FAQ
• Grievance/Query Regn
• Exit

Step 4 :  Now you may choose any option based on your requirement.  You will get appropriate information on the matter with further interaction with the chat boat .

What is Chat Boat SAMBANDH

CHATBOT SAMBANDH was launched by COAS as part of Army Day 2024 on 11 Jan 2024.
SAMBANDH aims to keep the relationship between the retired and the organisation vibrant and meaningful.
SAMBANDH is in collaboration with Meta is global first, where WhatsApp is being used as a welfare platform.

Terms and Conditions for SAMBANDH

“We take your privacy seriously, and we want you to understand how we collect, use, and protect your personal information. SAMBANDH is designed to provide general information and support on various topics related to Veterans & Next of Kin (NoK) and their well-being. However, please note that the information provided by the chatbot is intended to provide awareness on relevant matters. For any specific issue please contact our helpline numbers mentioned in SAMBANDH. Info provided in SMABANDH is no substitute for specific professional advice on a given matter.

Please be aware that SAMBANDH is an automated system, and it may not always provide 100%accurate information. While we strive to provide accurate information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided on a specific issue by SMABANDH, for which please use our helpline or register a grievance using the link provided in ‘Register Grievance’ menu option or ‘Ask a Question’ under Query option. We may collect personal information, such as your name, mobile number, email address and address when you interact with SAMBANDH.

We will only use this information for the purposes of providing support and responding to your inquiries. We will not share your personal information with third parties unless we have your consent or are required by law to do so. By using our website and interacting with SAMBANDH, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Notice and Disclaimer. If you have any questions or concerns about our privacy practices, please contact us at veteranscell-army@nic.in”

• 
  How to Change Your Parent ECHS Polyclinic Online: A Simplified Guide
  Good news for ECHS members! Changing your parent Polyclinic has become easier thanks to a new feature on the ECHS portal. Beneficiaries with the 64KB
• 
  PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS): Benefits, Eligibility, and Application Process
  What is PMSS and its Benefit The PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS), introduced in the academic year 2006–07, is a government initiative to offer financial assistance
• 
  Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantt – भारत के रक्षा बलों की स्वास्थ्य सुरक्षा की रीढ़
  RR Hospital भारतीय सेना, नौसेना और वायुसेना के सैनिकों, पूर्व सैनिकों और उनके परिवारों के लिए समर्पित एक प्रमुख चिकित्सा संस्थान दिल्ली कैंटोनमेंट के दिल
• 
  Pay Fixation for Ex-Combatant Clerks Reemployed in Clerical Cadres: A Closer Look
  Recent Changes in Pay Fixation Issues The matter of pay fixation for ex-combatant clerks reemployed in the clerical cadre across various departments and ministries has
• 
  Complete Guide of Bright Career : All India Entrance Exams for Higher Studies After 12th
  Thinking about which course to be chosen after 12th ? Dont worry, here is a detailed guide for you. Choosing the right career path after
• 
  Pay Fixation for Combatant clerks and other Exserviceman : Updates and Clarification by Govt
  You are with ESM Info Club Blog, and I am Bikash De, bringing you the latest updates on the pay fixation status of reemployed Ex-Servicemen
• 
  Important RBI Guidelines on Pension Payment for Central Government Pensioners
  The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued updated guidelines on April 1, 2025, clarifying the procedures related to pension payments for retired employees of the
• 
  Tribunal Directs Reconsideration of Ex-Serviceman’s Re-enrolment Request
  The Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT), Regional Bench at Chandigarh, delivered a significant order in OA 1448 of 2024, directing the Record Office of the Indian
• 
  India’s defense capabilities and promoting self-reliance
  In a significant move towards bolstering India’s defense capabilities and promoting self-reliance, the Ministry of Defence has entered into a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited
• 
  ECHS Revises Rates for Procurement of Hearing Aids for Veterans
  In an important update for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen, the Central Organisation of ECHS has announced a revised ceiling limit for the procurement of basic
• 
  Welfare Schemes for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) – A Comprehensive Overview
  Welfare schemes for Exservicemen and widows India holds its Ex-Servicemen (ESM) in the highest regard, recognizing their immense contribution to national security and welfare. To
• 
  Call for National Commission for Defence Personnel: Plea in Punjab & Haryana High Court
  Amid growing concern over the treatment and welfare of defence personnel and their families, a significant public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the
• 
  Strengthening Maritime Security: Raksha Mantri Reviews Indian Navy’s Operational Readiness at Naval Commanders’ Conference
  Introduction In a significant move to bolster India’s maritime strength, Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed the Indian Navy’s operational preparedness during the first edition
• 
  Ensuring Accountability in ECHS Card Usage: A Call for Transparency and Monitoring Mechanism
  Recently, in a circular, ECHS has ordered all beneficiaries to submit a self declaration regarding not to indulge any malpractice related to unauthorised use of
• 
  Ensure Correct ITR e-filing for Defence Personnel : Case filed Against Soldiers
  Filing incorrect Income Tax Returns (ITRs) can have serious consequences, especially for Indian Armed Forces personnel. Recent incidents have highlighted the importance of accurate tax
• 
  India Boosts Defence Readiness with ₹2,500 Crore Indigenous Procurement Drive
  India’s Defence Sector Takes a Giant Leap Towards Self-Reliance In a major push to modernise and indigenise India’s defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (MoD)
• 
  How to Register and Login to the CSD AFD Portal in 2025: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
  Learn how to register and login to the CSD AFD portal in 2025 with this detailed guide. Perfect for Ex-Servicemen and Armed Forces personnel. Step-by-step
• 
  No Change in Pension Rules: What FM Sitharaman’s Clarification Means for Millions of Pensioners
  The Indian pension community can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Amid growing anxiety surrounding the Finance Bill 2025, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has
• 
  Unfair Accountability: Why ECHS Beneficiaries Deserve Transparency and Protection
  The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) was established to honor the service of our veterans by ensuring they and their families receive accessible, quality healthcare.
• 
  Policy Change on Pay Commission benefit to Pensioners
  Briefing on Meeting with Secretary Pension A recent meeting was held with the Secretary Pension to discuss various issues pertaining to pension management and reforms.
• 
  IT Circular No. 03/2025: Income Tax Deduction from Salaries for FY 2024-25
  The Government of India, Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has issued Circular No. 03/2025, detailing the Income Tax
• 
  Referral Procedure for ECHS Empaneled Hospitals
  The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) is a vital initiative aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare to ex-servicemen and their dependents. To streamline medical care, the
• 
  Indian Army and SBI Renew MoU for Enhanced Financial Benefits
  In a significant development, the Indian Army and the State Bank of India (SBI) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 16 January 2025,