- Central employees can choose parents or parents-in-law as dependents for CGHS benefits
- This option applies only once and is exclusive to male staff under CGHS and CS(MA) rules
- Choice between parents or parents-in-law cannot be changed later, even if one passes away
Central government employees can now choose either their parents or parents-in-law as dependents for CGHS medical benefits, according to a new clarification issued on the matter. The notice covers both the CGHS and Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944 and will be a one-time option for the male staff.
A notification in this regard was issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on May 13. The ministry said that the provision was first introduced for CGHS beneficiaries and later extended to those covered under CS (MA) Rules. It also clarified that male employees can exercise this option only once. The decision is aimed at bringing uniformity in the implementation of medical dependency rules.
What The Rules State
Based on the clarification, if a male employee once opts for parents, the choice cannot later be changed to parents-in-law, even if the parents pass away. Likewise, if they select parents-in-law, they will not be allowed to switch back to parents later.
In July 2023, an Office Memorandum clarified that central government employees, both male and female, may choose either their parents or parents-in-law for CGHS medical benefits. This is subject to conditions of dependency and residence being fulfilled.
Central government employees enrolled under CGHS pay monthly subscription charges through salary deduction by their departments. The amount depends on their pay level in the 7th Pay Commission pay matrix. This means that higher pay levels attract higher contributions. These deductions provide access to CGHS medical facilities for employees and eligible family members.
Monthly CGHS Charges As Per 7th CPC Pay Matrix
Level 1-5- Rs 250
Level 6- Rs 450
Level 7-11- Rs 650
Level 12 and above- Rs 1,000
For CGHS card issuance, the term “family” includes husband, wife and other dependent members. Dependent family members include either parents or parents-in-law of a central government employee, along with children, step-children, minor brothers and sisters and widowed sisters or daughters.
ALSO READ: 8th Pay Commission: Govt Teachers' Body Expects Rs 50,000 Basic Wage, Annual Increments
As per the rules, sons are covered up to 25 years of age or till marriage, whichever is earlier. Daughters are covered until marriage. Dependent divorced or separated daughters, including their minor children, are also included.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.