Eligibility of serving Central Government employees for availing CGHS facilities - OM dated 17/09/2026

Government of India – Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (EHS Section)

CGHS Geographical Restrictions Removed for Central Government Employees and can get Nationwide Eligibility

• The Office Memorandum O.M. No. Z.16025/227/2026/CGHS-III/EHS(8421134), issued by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (EHS Section) on 17 September 2026.
• Subject: Eligibility of serving Central Government employees for availing CGHS facilities
• Earlier rules (2018 O.M.) restricted CGHS coverage to serving employees residing/working within 5 km radius of a CGHS Wellness Centre.
• Employees living within municipal limits but beyond 5 km radius could opt for CGHS if otherwise CS(MA) beneficiaries.

New Decision:

• The government has removed the geographical restriction.
• Serving employees residing/posted outside CGHS coverage areas or in cities without CGHS can now exercise a one-time option to become CGHS beneficiaries.
• Employees within CGHS-covered areas (district HQs where CGHS centres exist) are mandatorily covered under CGHS and cannot opt for CS(MA) Rules, 1944.

Conditions for Option:

• One-time, final, and binding.
• Applies to all dependents (no split between CGHS and CS(MA)).
• Must pay prescribed CGHS subscription regardless of residence/posting.
• Cannot claim benefits under both systems simultaneously.
• No TA/DA for treatment or medicines under CGHS.
• Undertaking required that neither employee nor dependents will avail dual benefits.
• False/misleading information will invite disciplinary action under CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964.

Implementation:

• Effective immediately with approval of competent authority.
• Signed by Sonika Khattar, Deputy Secretary to the Government of India.