If you are a central government employee using the CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme) for your elderly family members, this update is important for you.
The Ministry of Health issued a new order on May 13, 2026, which changes the rules for adding dependent parents under CGHS. The new clarification has created concern among lakhs of employees across the country.
Now You Must Choose Between Parents and In-Laws
Under the new rule, employees can no longer include both their parents and in-laws together under CGHS benefits.
This means employees now have to make a one-time choice:
Either include their own parents
Or include their in-laws
If you choose your parents, your in-laws cannot be added later. Similarly, if you select your in-laws, your own parents will not be eligible for CGHS coverage through you.
Why Employees Are Worried
The biggest concern is that this decision may become permanent.
According to reports, even if the dependent parents or in-laws later pass away, employees may still not be allowed to switch and add the other side’s parents in the future.
Many employees say this rule is emotionally stressful because they are responsible for caring for both families. Employee unions believe family situations can change over time due to illness, widowhood, or financial problems.
Because of this, there is growing demand for more flexibility in the rule.
Who Can Be Added as a CGHS Dependent?
To qualify as a dependent under CGHS, certain conditions must be met. The family member should usually live with the employee, and their monthly income should be below ₹9,000 plus dearness relief.
People who can be included under CGHS are:
Husband or wife
Children (sons up to 25 years or until marriage)
Parents or in-laws (only one side)
Minor brother or sister
Widowed sister or widowed daughter
How Much CGHS Contribution Is Deducted?
As per the 7th Pay Commission, employees pay a fixed monthly contribution for CGHS from their salary.
Here is the deduction structure:
Level 1 to 5: ₹250 per month
Level 6: ₹450 per month
Level 7 to 11: ₹650 per month
Level 12 and above: ₹1,000 per month
What About Pensioners?
Retired government employees can also continue using CGHS services.
Pensioners living in cities without CGHS facilities have two choices:
Take a monthly Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA)
Or register with the nearest CGHS-covered city
Employees’ Unions May Raise the Issue
Several employee unions are unhappy with the new clarification. They argue that family responsibilities change with time, and a strict one-time option may create difficulties later.
There is a possibility that unions may soon ask the government to reconsider the rule and allow employees to change their option in special situations.
