If you are a government employee or have one in your family, this news is important for you. In January, the government announced the formation of a new pay commission.
This commission will determine the changes needed in the salary and pension of central government employees and pensioners, considering the country’s economic situation.
While many think that the main role of the pay commission is simply to recommend salary hikes, there’s more to it.
What Does the Pay Commission Do?
The pay commission doesn’t only focus on salary increases. It also reviews various allowances, facilities, and other aspects affecting government employees.
Based on its review, the commission suggests necessary changes to improve the benefits of employees.
One key area under review for several years has been the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
This scheme provides healthcare and related services to central government employees and their dependents.
What is CGHS?
CGHS, or the Central Government Health Scheme, is a healthcare initiative by the Government of India.
It provides affordable consultation, treatment, tests, and medicines to central government employees, pensioners, and their families.
It is a comprehensive medical care scheme designed to support government workers and their dependents.
Future Recommendations for Healthcare Scheme
The previous three pay commissions have recommended introducing a new healthcare scheme for central government employees and pensioners.
Despite the government’s interest, this scheme has not yet been implemented.
The previous pay commissions highlighted that CGHS has limited reach and is not available everywhere, which is why they suggested the need for a broader, more accessible healthcare system.
Suggestions from the Sixth and Seventh Pay Commission
The Sixth Pay Commission recommended starting an optional healthcare scheme for central employees
and pensioners, where employees could voluntarily join by contributing a fixed amount. It also proposed making this scheme mandatory for future employees.
The Seventh Pay Commission emphasized that health insurance could offer better long-term medical security for employees, pensioners,
and their families, recommending the implementation of a comprehensive healthcare scheme.
What is the Government’s Plan Now?
According to a report from the Financial Express, there are rumors that the Health Ministry may replace CGHS with an insurance-based scheme in January 2025.
This new scheme could be called the Central Government Employees and Pensioners Health Insurance Scheme (CGEPHIS)
and might be implemented through insurance companies registered with the insurance regulator IRDAI.
However, the government has not yet confirmed this development officially.
