In a major change in guidelines for CGHS beneficiaries, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has said that contributions to the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) can be made only through the official CGHS website, according to a recent circular. The direction is effective from April 28, 2025.
According to the circular, the existing manual payment process available on http://www.bharatkosh.gov.in has been discontinued. Until now, central government pensioners used the Bharatkosh portal to pay their CGHS subscription and renew or apply for a CGHS card.
“28th April onwards, CGHS Contribution shall be only through the CGHS website, i.e., http://www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in. The existing manual process of payment available on http://www.bharatkosh.gov.in shall discontinue from 28th April 2025,” the circular issued last month said.
The purpose of this change is to make the whole process easier, transparent and technology-based.
Did not pay on time? Application will be canceled
The government has also made it clear that if anyone has not made the payment under the old process by 27 April 2025, then his application will be automatically canceled. In such a situation, you will have to apply again by going to the new portal. So if you have not made the payment yet, then use the new portal without delay.
Along with this, the government has advised all CGHS beneficiaries above 18 years of age to link their beneficiary ID with their PAN card and get any kind of mistake corrected immediately.
Old system completely out, now new digital system is ready
The old system of CGHS, which was created in 2005, has never been updated in the last 20 years and is now technically backward. Therefore, the government has decided to completely shut it down and start a new, modern system.
Now the new Health Management Information System (HMIS) prepared by C-DAC (Centre for Development of Advanced Computing) is being introduced. This system is completely digital, does automatic verification and provides tracking facility in real-time.
To implement this change smoothly, all CGHS Wellness Centers were closed for the general public on 26 April 2025. At the same time, from April 28, old websites – such as http://www.cghs.gov.in and http://www.cghs.nic.in – were also shut. After this, all services are now available only on the new portal.
Password will have to be reset while logging in for the first time
When you login for the first time on the new portal, you will have to reset your password. You will keep getting information about the status of your application through SMS and email.
To further improve the facility, the government has also launched the ‘myCGHS’ mobile app. Through this app, you can do many card-related services like card transfer, adding dependents, or changing card type – everything online.
Also read: New guidelines for CGHS beneficiaries! Here’s all central govt employees, pensioners need to know
Old data will remain safe
During this change, none of your old data – such as medicine purchase records, referral history or card information – will be deleted. The government has given utmost priority to data security and your privacy.
Master trainers have been deployed in different CGHS offices and wellness centers who will be present to explain and help the beneficiaries and employees with the new system. In case of any problem, you can contact your nearest CGHS office or card section.
Why is this change necessary?
The government believes that this change will not only make the CGHS system technically better, but it will also provide more transparency, trust and convenience to the beneficiaries in getting health services – especially for pensioners and the elderly.