Latest News: CGHS Rates to Be Revised Soon, Assures Union Minister Mandaviya; Maharashtra Seeks Expansion of Workers' Insurance Scheme

Union Minister Mandaviya assured CGHS rate revisions soon and promised faster development of Maharashtra’s ESIS hospitals. The state also demanded higher income eligibility and more funds to improve worker healthcare access.

The Central Government is actively considering the revision of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) rates, and an update will be announced soon, assured Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. The assurance came during a meeting held in New Delhi on Wednesday with Maharashtra Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar and a delegation of senior state officials.

During the meeting, an in-depth review was conducted on the current condition of the Workers’ Insurance Scheme (ESIS) hospitals in Maharashtra. Minister Abitkar urged the Centre to resolve all pending issues immediately, stating that the state government is committed to ensuring quality healthcare for industrial workers.

Key Highlights from the Meeting:

15 ESIS hospitals currently operate in Maharashtra, supported by 450 private hospitals and 134 service clinics under the insurance scheme.
The scheme benefits over 48.7 lakh insured workers and their families.
Minister Abitkar demanded an increase in the monthly income eligibility limit for the scheme from ₹21,000 to ₹30,000, which would help expand coverage and benefit more workers.
Construction work and patient services at ESIS hospitals in Ulhasnagar, Andheri, and Kolhapur were discussed, along with plans to upgrade the ESIS hospital in Nashik ahead of the upcoming Kumbh Mela.

Union Minister Mandaviya responded positively, stating that the Director General of ESIC will be directed to expedite pending construction and renovation work. He also committed to visiting the ESIC Hospital in Andheri, Mumbai, alongside Minister Abitkar.

Additionally, Mandaviya instructed officials to organize a comprehensive review meeting for all ESIC hospitals in Maharashtra to streamline operations and improve service delivery.

Minister Abitkar expressed optimism that these developments will enhance ESIC healthcare services across the state and improve the well-being of lakhs of insured workers.