The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) has issued an important clarification for Central Government employees regarding medical benefits under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and the Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944.
The key rule is simple but strict: male employees can choose either their parents or their parents-in-law for medical benefits, but this decision can be made only once.
One-Time Choice Rule: No Switching Later Allowed
As per the latest Office Memorandum dated May 13, 2026, eligible male employees are allowed a one-time option to include:
Either their parents
Or their parents-in-law
Once this decision is made, it becomes permanent.
The government has clearly stated that:
The choice cannot be changed later
Even the death of parents will not allow switching to parents-in-law
Similarly, if parents-in-law are chosen first, employees cannot later switch back to parents
This rule removes any confusion and makes the selection final from the beginning.
Why This Clarification Was Needed
This is not a completely new benefit.
The option to choose between parents and parents-in-law already existed under earlier government orders issued in 2023 and 2024.
However, confusion remained about whether employees could change their choice later based on changing family situations.
The latest order simply clarifies that the decision is strictly one-time and irreversible.
The government has asked all ministries and departments to ensure proper communication and strict implementation of this rule.
Who Qualifies as ‘Family’ Under CGHS
Under CGHS rules, “family” includes a wide range of dependents, such as:
Spouse
Parents (or parents-in-law, based on one-time choice)
Dependent children and step-children
Minor brothers and sisters
Widowed or divorced daughters (and their dependent children)
Widowed sisters
Eligibility for children generally applies:
Sons: up to 25 years of age or until marriage
Daughters: until marriage
The idea is to support dependents who are financially reliant on the employee.
What Counts as a Dependent
A family member is considered dependent if their total monthly income (including pension and other benefits) is below ₹9,000 plus Dearness Allowance.
However, there is one important exception:
The spouse of the employee remains eligible regardless of income
Key Takeaway for Employees
The government’s clarification makes one point very clear: the choice between parents and parents-in-law for CGHS medical benefits is final and cannot be changed later under any circumstances.
Employees are advised to carefully evaluate their decision before selecting dependents, as it will remain fixed for their entire service period.
