Big relief for govt staff: Gujarat adds dependent brothers, sisters to medical benefits

The Health and Family Welfare Department of the Government of Gujarat has introduced an important amendment in the interest of lakhs of state employees. So far, medical treatment benefits were mainly limited to a spouse, children and parents, but now dependent brothers and sisters have also been included.

What changes have been made?

Under the Gujarat State Services (Medical Treatment) Rules, the earlier definition of family has been cancelled and replaced with a broader one. According to the new amendment, family members who are financially dependent on the employee will now also be eligible for medical benefits.

As per the revised definition, spouse, children, parents, brothers, sisters and adopted children will be eligible to receive medical treatment benefits, provided that they live with the employee.

The government has also clarified the criteria for financial dependency. If a family member’s total monthly income from all sources (including pension) does not exceed ₹500, they will be considered fully dependent on the employee and will be eligible to receive benefits under the scheme.

According to the Health Department, the amendment to the rules has been implemented with immediate effect. This decision is expected to provide significant financial relief to middle-class government families and reduce the burden of medical expenses for other family members during illness.