INCOME TAX19 Sept 2026
CGHS eligibility rules changed: Central govt employees outside covered areas can now opt for CGHS | Mint
New rules let serving Central government employees posted or living outside Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) areas opt for it. The Health Ministry removed the old geographical restriction through an Office Memorandum dated 17 September 2026. The switch is a one-time option and cannot be reversed once made. Check your eligibility, the prescribed conditions and contribution amount before applying.
Key Statutory Highlights
- The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced the change through an Office Memorandum dated 17 September 2026.
- The CGHS option is one-time, so it cannot be reversed once an employee exercises it.
- Employees opting for CGHS must give an undertaking that they and their eligible family members will not claim medical benefits under both CGHS and the Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944.
Actionable Advice for Taxpayers / Founders:If you are a serving Central government employee posted outside a CGHS-covered area, check your eligibility and the prescribed procedure with your office before exercising the one-time option, since the choice cannot be reversed.
Statutory Disclaimer: TaxQue Shorts are AI-assisted editorial briefs for compliance awareness. This brief has not passed every source check; confirm the original notification before acting. This does not constitute formal legal or CA counsel.
TaxQue News Desk
Share: