In response to widespread opposition from employees and pensioners, the central government has revised its earlier directive mandating the linking of Ayushman Bharat cards with the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a new order, providing an option rather than an obligation for central employees and pensioners to link their Ayushman Bharat cards with CGHS.
Under the new directive from CGHS Director Dr. Satish YH, central government employees and pensioners can now choose whether to link their Ayushman Bharat cards with CGHS.
Those who prefer not to link their cards will not compelled to do so.
Previously, an order issued on 28 March had mandated the compulsory linking of Ayushman Bharat cards with CGHS for central government employees and pensioners.
The order had set initial deadlines of 30 June and later 31 October for the linkage.
The directive faced immediate opposition, with the Confederation of Central Government Employees and Workers’ General Secretary, SB Yadav, sending a letter to the Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, urging the ministry to consider the sentiments of employees and pensioners.
Subhash Pandey, the National Organization Secretary of the National Coordination Council of Pensioners Association (NCCPA), noted that there was widespread opposition to the scheme.
The NCCPA has expressed its intent to continue advocating for additional demands, including the implementation of the old pension scheme and the eighth pay commission.
This amendment provides relief to many employees and pensioners who were concerned about the implications of mandatory linkage, allowing them to make a voluntary choice regarding their healthcare arrangements.
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