Synopsis: The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has allowed dependent transgender children and siblings of Central Government employees to avail CGHS medical benefits, irrespective of age. This move aligns with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
Key Announcement
In a significant step towards inclusivity, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has announced that dependent transgender children and siblings of Central Government employees (serving or retired) can avail medical facilities under CGHS/CS(MA) Rules, 1944 without any age restrictions.
This decision has been taken in compliance with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, ensuring equal medical rights for transgender dependents.
Conditions for Eligibility
The ministry has laid down two key conditions for availing the benefits:
1. Financial Dependency – The individual must be wholly dependent on the government employee as per the financial limit defined. As per the 2016 Office Memorandum (OM), dependency is linked to the minimum pension of ?9,000 per month, plus applicable dearness relief.
2. Certificate Requirement – The individual must hold a valid certificate issued by the District Magistrate under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
Why This Matters
This update ensures that transgender dependents are not excluded from medical facilities due to age barriers. With healthcare expenses often being a major challenge, this reform offers critical support to families of government employees.
Background
The 2016 OM based on the 7th Central Pay Commission had set the minimum pension at ?9,000 per month and the family pension at 30% of basic pay. The same financial dependency framework now extends to transgender dependents as well.
By expanding the scope of CGHS benefits, the government has taken a progressive step towards social security and inclusivity.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official information released by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It is for informational purposes only and should not be treated as legal or financial advice.
