7th Pay commission may drop the Pay Band-Grade Pay System

The All India Audit & Accounts Association has met the 7th pay commission on 27-3-2015  to tender its Oral evidence. The Association observed that the 7th pay commission was of the view to discard the Pay Band – grade pay system. The feed back of the Meeting is posted in its Blog. The copy of the report is given below

All India Audit & Accounts Association

CSV Warrier Bhawan

Ghaziabad

Reference : AIA /Circular-10/2015,

dated 28.03.2015

To

Unit Secretaries

Members & Spl Invitees NE & Members of Women’s Committee

Dear Comrades,

Tendering of Oral Evidence before 7 CPC

The 7th CPC had invited the All India Audit & Accounts Association for tendering oral evidence on 27th March 2015 at this office at Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi. In addition to the Secretary General, Coms M.Duraipandian, V.Nageswara Rao, KL Gautam and Anilkumar appeared before the Commission for the oral evidence. The Commission was present in full strength

The following demands were placed before the Commission:

1. Upgradation of LDC of GP 2400

2. Correcting the distortions in the implementation of 6 CPC recommendations with respect to IA & AD and organised Accounts Viz.

i) grant of GP 4200 to Auditor / Accountant

ii) grant of GP 4600 to SA, granting parity with Assistants of CSS

iii) grant of GP 5400 to AAO on completion of 4 years

3. Grant Promotion to SA to GP 4800 and higher starting pay of PB 2, 5400 to AAO and space for further career advancements for these orders

There was detailed discussion on each of our demands. It was pointed out by us that CAG of India has also recommended each of above demand and also grant of GP 6600 and 7600 to AOs and SAOs. The Chairman appreciated it. The Commission assured to take a positive look on our demands which are also supported by CAG.

The demands were explained in its historical background and also on functional basis. The recommendations of the past pay commissions were also brought to the notice of the CPC. The award by the Central Board of Arbitration in favour of the employees in respect of parity between SA and Assistants in CSS was particularly pointed out. Chairman expressed his unhappiness on the non implementation of the award by the employees and workers.

On our demand for career progression for SA and AAO, the Commission stated that though it is sympathetic it is not sure what could be done, given the hierarchical structure available in IA and AD.

We also raised the issue of re-introduction of Touring Special Pay and pointed out to the Award that was won by the All India Audit & Accounts Association from the Board of Arbitration and its rejection by the Parliament in 2002.

We further requested for introduction of 4 advance increments on passing of Departmental confirmatory examination, explaining the system prevailed before 3rd CPC, recommendation of 3rd CPC following which it was discontinued and its re introduction in 1981 an amount equivalent to 3 increments. We pointed out that the conversion of this qualification pay into deemed allowance after 5 CPC and requested for its re-introduction.

During the discussion the Chairman observed that the commission is of the view to discard the PB-GP System.

ORAL EVIDENCE BY STAFF SIDE NC, JCM

On 23-24 March 2015, the Standing Conïnittee of Staff Side, NC, JCM, tendered the oral evidence before the 7 CPC. The delegation was led by Shri Raghavaiah, Leader, Staff Side and Corn Shiva Gopal Mishra, Secretary, Staff Side.

Com KKN Kutty presented the memorandum on behalf of the NC, JCM. The gist of discussion is given in the enclosed Circular issued by Corn Shiva Gopal Mishra, Secretary, Staff Side.

The Pay Commission stated that the principle that vuld guide to determine the minimum wage shall be Dr Aykroid formula on it (ie 15 ILC norms). It has further stated its intention to do away with pay band/grade pay system. On some other issues, the Pay Commission has sought the views of the Staff Side (which shall be conveyed to the Commission shortly).

With greetings,

Your Fraternally

sd/-

(M.S. Raja)

Secretary General

Source: All India Audit & Accounts Association

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Yoga can help Government Servants in managing the stress

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Yoga is the best way to keep ourselves healthy. He was addressing a workshop on “Self-Management of Excessive Tension” for the officers of different Ministries and their families, organized by the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India in association with Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana, here today. About 40 officers from various Ministries have attended the programme.

Talking about Yoga and stress management, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Yoga can help in managing the stress which is very much prevalent in present day working of the people in general and government servants in particular. This should not be one time activity rather it should be a part of life so that one can lead their life in a better way, he added.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the government will organize Yoga Training Sessions from April 01, 2015 for the benefit of Central Government Employees and their dependents at Grih Kalyan Kendra Smaj Sadans in association with Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, New Delhi. The government has selected 26 GKKs from Delhi and 14 from other parts of India for the same, he added.

pib

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Minimum Wage for 7th Pay Commission Rs.26000- and Open Ended Pay Scales : NCJCM

NFIR in its website posted the feedback of the Meeting of JCM delegation with 7th Pay Commission. The demands placed by JCM Delegation before 7th pay commission are Minimum wage Rs.26000/-, Increment 5% per Annum, minimum 5 Promotions and implementation 7th pay commission from 1.1.2014. The copy of the Report published in NFIR is given below

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen

3, CHELMSFORD ROAD, NEW DELHI110 055

Affiliated to:

Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)

International Transport Workers Federation (ITF)

Minimum Wage of Rs.26000- and Open Ended Pay Scales

JCM DELEGATION PROPOSED BEFORE THE 7th  CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION

During 2 days deliberations on 23rd & 24th March, 2015, the JCM (Staff Side) delegation have pleaded before the 7th Central Pay Commission to recommend minimum wage of Rs. 26,000/- per month on the basis of 15th ILC Norms/ Aykroyd Formula. Some of the important submissions made before the Pay Commission are listed below:

. Wage ratio between the lowest and highest should be 1:8.

. Revised pay scales and allowances should be given effect from 01/01/2014.

. 3.7 multiplication factor should be applied to arrive at the revised pay. Special Pay concept should be restored back.

. HRA should be revised to 60%, 40% and 20% of pay for ‘X’ ‘Y’ and ‘Z’ class localities/ cities respectively.

. Children Education Allowance should be revised and extended to cover higher studies

also.

. Increment rate should be 5% of pay.

. Five promotions during service.

. Special Duty Allowance for North Eastern Region be revised to 37-1/2%.

. House Building Amount should be increased and interest rate should be reduced.

. 6ti CPC Anomalies may be got addressed through a special mechanism.

. Flexi timings for women employees besides additional leave facilities etc.,

Pension

. Pay Commission was urged to recommend panty in Pension.

. Minimum Pension should be fixed at 67% of last pay drawn.

. Gratuity amount should be upwardly revised.

All the issues contained in the JCM memorandum were explained to the Commission with cogent logic, merits and Precedents. S/Shri M. Raghavaiah, Leader JCM (Staff Side), Guman Singh. NFIR President, R.P. Bhatnagar, Working President and B.C. Sharma, Joint General Secretary have participated in the deliberations.

No.IV/NFIR/7Th CPC/Corres/Pt.V

Dated : 28/03/2015

Forwarded to Affiliates & Media Centre/NFIR. .

(Dr M. Raghavaiah)

General Secretary

Source: NFIR

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Aadhar based Digital Life Certificate -Jeevan Pramaan

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE

CENTRAL PENSION ACCOUNTING OFFICE

TRIKOOT-II,BHIKAJI CAMA PLACE.

NEW DELHI-110066

CPAO/Tech/Jeevan Pramaan /2014-15/218-259

20.03.2015

Office Memorandum

Subject:- Aadhar based Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan)

The Hon’ble Prime Minister has launched “Jeevan Aadhaar”(Aadhaar based biometric verification system for pensioner). To make its implementation successful Department of Financial Services has constituted a sub-group comprising of RBI, Indian Bank’s Association (IBA),, State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank. Accordingly,’RBI, IBA and Department of Financial Services have issued necessary guidelines/ instructions to all banks for their convenience. To implement Jeevan Pramaan it is necessary on the part of banks to seed the Aadhaar number with Pension Payment Order and bank account number. To complete this task, all banks have to take special drive to collect the Aadhaar number of pensioners and make it a part of their master data.

In the above context Addl. CGA has taken a meeting on 24.12.2014 with the discuss the further strategy for speedy implementation of the system. In the meeting, it was decided that to ensure the genuineness of the pensioner it is necessary to seed the Aadhaar number with PPO and pensioners bank account. Because at present banks are not having pensioners’ data base on their server to link them with the details of PPOs and Aadhaar numbers, they were advised to prepare a data-base of pensioners account first at the earliest and link them with Aadhaar server. For this purpose, they will call the pensioners to come to bank alongwith their original Aadhaar card and its photocopy for identification. The designated officer of the bank will identify the pensioner with reference to the PPO and KYC document and seed his pension account with Aadhaar server.

He will keep the photocopy of Aadhaar Card in the pensioners’ folder for record. The bank will apply this strategy immediately with those pensioners whose life certificates are still pending and are interested to opt for digital certification of their life. Thereafier, they may complete this task well before November, 2015, when life certificate becomes dues.

A column for Aadhaar number has been provided in the format of master data and made available on CPAOs website. All CPPCs are advised to update their master data duly seeded with PPO number & bank account numbers and send the same to CPAO by e-mail at cpao.masterdata{@}gmail.com at the earliest so that CPAO also updates its master data for validation purpose.

This task must be completed on top priority basis.

(Dilip Kumar)

Controller of Accounts

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Outcomes of the Meeting of 7th Pay commission with NCJCM

As we reported earlier, A meeting of NCJCM with 7th Pay Commission has been held on 23rd and 24 th of March 2015. The NCJCM expressed its satisfaction after its Meeting with the 7th Pay commission. The feedback of the Meeting with 7th Pay Commission has been posted in its official website. The copy of the report is posted here.

No.NC/JCM/2015

Dated: March 25, 2014

Dear Comrades,

The 7th CPC had asked the JCM Staff Side to present their case before the Commission for wage revision on 23rd and 24th March 2015. Accordingly, the Standing Committee of the Staff Side met on 22nd March and again 23rd March 2015. The presentation was made on 23rd and 24th March 2015 before the Commission.

We have discussed the memorandum, chapter wise and the Commission made a very patient hearing and interacted with us seeking clarifications on certain matters. It is not possible to provide a detailed account of the discussions. However, we are to inform you that we came out of the discussion with a very good impression and satisfaction.

1. The Commission will adopt Minimum Wage Concept(Dr. Aykhrod Formula) as the principle of wage determination.  They will however, collect the retail rates of the commodities that go into the basket.

2. We have pleaded for the adoption of the best international practices while fixing the highest salary.

3. On the demands for Interim Relief and Merger of DA, the Commission finally said that those can only be considered if Terms of Reference are amended.

4. The Commission agreed that there had been reduction in the sanctioned strength and working strength over the years despite the increased workload.

5. They have also noted that there was substantial reduction in percentage terms of the expenses on salary and wages over the years.

6. The Commission enquired, as to how multiplication factor of 3.7 was arrived at. The same was explained in detail.

7. Fitment Formula and the demand on Fixation of Pay on Promotion, were appreciated as the rationale was explained.

8. Date of effect: No commitment or comment was made by the Commission. The Staff Side explained, as to how they compromised by shifting the date from. 01.01.2011 to 01.01.2014.

9. The institution of Special Pay, especially in the wake of de-layering was explained.

10. Common Categories: We have requested the upgradation and amalgamation of the cadres of LDC with UDC and the need for bringing about parity in pay scales of the Subordinate Offices with the Central Secretariat. The problems of Staff Car Drivers were also elaborated. The contractorisation and casualisation at lower level positions and the consequent exploitation of the labour were discussed at length. The Commission has made a proposal to do away with the contractorisation/casualisation. Staff side will discuss the proposal and will send its views to the Commission in due course.

11. Classification of Posts: Our proposal has not been found favour.

12. GDS: While sympathizing with the Staff Side, the Commission wanted them to approach the Government with a view to amend the Terms of Reference.

13. Allowances and Advances: Detailed discussions were held on HRA, CCA, Transport Allowance, CEA and Special Allowance for personnel posted at North East Region. Chapters dealing with the facilities was also discussed at length, including compassionate appointment. On holidays, we have requested to include May Day in the list of holidays. The background of observance of May Day was enquired by the Commission and explained.

14. Pension and Retirement Benefit – NPS: Commission stated categorically that NPS being an Act of Parliament, they will not make any comment thereon.

Pension Computation: The rationale of 67% was explained and appreciated.

Minimum Pension: our demand for 2/3rd of the Minimum Wage was also explained.

Parity in pension of past and present pensioners was fully explained, linked with one rank -one pension scheme for Defence Personnel. We have pleaded that Civilian Pensioners should not be discriminated against. Demand for Additional Pension for both Pensioners and Family Pensioners was explained. All matters concerning Family Pension were also discussed. So also, gratuity to be computed in accordance with the Gratuity Act.

There was good response for the demands from the Commission.

Restoration of commuted value of pension: The Commission will enquire the views of the Government as to what is their objection to the demand.

Medical facilities for pensioners and discrimination between Pensioners in CGHS area and CCS(MA) Area as also the Postal Pensioners was brought home including the higher Fixed Medical Allowance for ESI persons.

Certain clarifications/elucidations have been asked for by the Commission. To provide such clarifications, another meeting with the Commission might be held after the Commission’s interaction with other organizations. The Staff Side may meet the Commission after their interaction with the other organizations are over.

With greetings,

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

Secretary/Staff Side NC JCM

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Closed Holiday on 14th April 2015 on account of the birthday of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

No. 2012/F(LR)IIJ/HL1/1

New Delhi, Dt: 25.03.2015

The General Managers.
All Indian Railways
(As per standard list)

Sub: Declaration of Holiday on 14th April, 2015- Birthday of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.

In the above matter. Department of Personnel & Training vide 0M No. 12/6/2015/JCA-2 dated 19th March. 2015 has advised as under:

“it has been decided to declare Tuesday, the 14rn April 2015, as a Closed Holiday on account of the birthday of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, for all Central Government Offices including Industrial Establishments throughout India.

2. The above holiday is also being notified in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881(26 of 1881).

3. All Ministries/Departments of Government of India may bring the above decision to the notice of all concerned.”

The above may be noted for information and necessary action.

(Nirmala Tirkey)

Dv. Director Estt (LR)II

Railway Board

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Submission of declarations and assets and liabilities by the Railway Servants

RBE No. 26/2015

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

No. E(D&A) 2014 GS1-2

New Delhi, 25/03/2015

The General Manager(P)

All Indian Railways and

Production Units etc.

(As per standard list).

Sub: The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 – Submission of declarations and assets and liabilities by the Railway Servants

Attention is invited to Railway Board’s letter of even no. dated 01.09.2014, whereby the Public Servants (Furnishing of Information and Annual Return of Assets and Liabilities and the Limits for Exemption of Assets in Filing Returns) Rules, 2014, [hereinafter referred to as Principal Rules], notified by Department of Personnel & Training vide Gazette notification G.S.R. No 501(E) dated 14.07.2014, were circulated on the Railways. Pursuant to these rules, all Railway servants are required to furnish information relating to their assets and liabilities under section 44 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, as per Appendix-I and Appendix-II (consisting of Forms No. I to IV) to the Rules.

2. These Rules have since been modified by the Public Servants (Furnishing of Information and Annual Return of Assets and Liabilities and the Limits for Exemption of Assets in Filing Returns) Amendment Rules, 2014, notified by Department of Personnel & Training vide Gazette notifications G.S.R. No. 638(E)

dated 08.09.2014 and G.S.R. No. 918(E) dated 26.12.2014. These notifications are available at the Department of Personnel & Training’s website at http://persmin.nic.in/Lokpal_Homepage_New.asp. These amendment rules have extended the time limit for filing of revised returns, referred to in proviso under sub-rule (2) of Rule 3 of the Principal Rules, to 30.04.2015. The notification dated 26.12.2014 also modified the Forms No. II and IV of Appendix-II to the Principal Rules.

3. In this regard it is clarified that :-

(i) The first return (as on 1st August, 2014) under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 should be filed on or before the 30th April, 2015;

(ii) The next annual return under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 for the year ending 31st March, 2015 should be filed on or before 31st July, 2015; and

(iii) The annual return for subsequent years as on 31st March every year should be filed on or before 31st July of that year.

4. The following Assets & Liabilities Return forms (both in English and Hindi) are enclosed herewith as indicated below :-

A Declaration to be filed with Return of Assets and Liabilities on First Appointment or as on 31st March, 20……. (Under Section 44 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.) [Appendix-I of the notification dated

14.07.2014]

B

(a) FORM No. I – Details of Railway servant, his/her spouse and dependent children [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014]

(b) Modified FORM No. II – Statement of movable property on first appointment or as on the 31st March, 20……. [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014 as modified vide notification dated

26.12.2014]

(c) FORM No. III – Statement of immovable property on first appointment or as on the 31st March, 20……. (e.g. Lands, House, Shops, Other Buildings, etc.) [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014]

(d) Modified FORM No. IV – Statement of Debts and Other Liabilities on first appointment or as on the 31st March, 20……. [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014 as modified vide notification dated

26.12.2014]

5. Railways etc. may ensure that all officers and staff in their organisation file the said declarations/returns within the prescribed time limits, in the aforementioned forms.

6. Hindi version will follow. Please acknowledge receipt.

DA: As above

(S. Modi)

Dy. Director Estt. (D&A)

Railway Board

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OROP Calculation done : will be implemented from 1st April 2014

Implementation of ‘One Rank One Pension’ scheme, the long-standing demand of Armed Forces veterans, is likely to cost the exchequer Rs 7,500 crore to Rs 10,000 crore, Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh said today.

The government has already made it clear that One Rank One Pension (OROP) will be implemented with effect from April 1, 2014, the Minister of State for Defence told reporters here.

He said that the Defence Ministry had recently forwarded to the Finance Ministry the cost which the scheme’s implementation would entail.

“It is likely to cost us somewhere between Rs 7,500 crore to Rs 10,000 crore,” he said, adding that the previous UPA government had made a mere announcement with regard to OROP.

“During the past four to five months, we have gone deep into this. We have calculated the entire cost now,” he said.

On being asked about Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohmmad Sayeed’s statement that his government will proceed with phased removal of AFSPA after consulting the Army, Singh said that it is true that the Army has expressed its reservations about it.

The Army had yesterday said it was against any move to dilute the AFSPA in Jammu and Kashmir.

“One thing is clear that there cannot be any unilateral decision on this,” he said.

He said that gradual withdrawal is everybody’s hope, “though that can only be possible when peace returns to the state.”

Responding to another question, Singh said that he would like the PDP-BJP coalition in Jammu and Kashmir to be given a chance to deliver.

“Before people start taking potshots at us, I would say let we be given a chance to deliver. If we fail, then may be, people have the right to criticise,” he said.

Meanwhile, Singh said that more Sainik Schools would be set up in various states of the country so that students could be trained to become competent officers to serve the Armed Forces which faces a shortfall of 7,500 officers.

He said that efforts will also be made to woo people to join the Army in areas where joining the force was a tradition.

Source:Buisiness standard

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CGHS Wellness Centres Working Hours Revised Again

No: S.11030/55/2012-CGHS(P)

Government of India

Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Department of Health & Family Welfare

Maulana Azad Road, Nirman Bhawan

New Delhi 110 108

Dated the 24th March, 2015

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revised Timings for CGHS Wellness Centres

The undersigned is directed to refer to the OM of even no. dated 26th March, 2013 vide which the revised timings of 8.00 AM to 3.00 PM in the CGHS Wellness Centres were enforced w.e.f. 1st April, 2013. This Ministry has received representations from association of doctors of CGHS (All India G.D.M.O. Association) and other sections of CGHS beneficiaries for change in duty hours/ timings of the Wellness Centres. In this regard, after due consideration, it has been decided to further revise the timings of CGHS Wellness Centres from the current timings of 8.00 AM to 3.00 PM to the revised timings of 7.30 AM to 2.00 PM as per the following details :

1. The CGHS Wellness Centres will be functional from 7.30 AM to 2.00 PM without a lunch break, on a trial basis for three months w.e.f. 1st April, 2015.

2. The CGHS Wellness Centres in New Delhi which are currently functional for 24 hours, will continue to function as usual in shifts.

3. The new timings will be applicable to all CGHS Wellness Centres in all CGHS cities across the country

4. The new timings would also apply to the AYUSH dispensaries / units under CGHS all over the country.

The new timings for CGHS Wellness Centres will be effective from 1st April, 2015 on a trial basis for three months. Further decision in the matter will be taken after considering feedback to this change.

This issues with the approval of Minister of Health and Family Welfare.

Sd/-

[Bindu Tewari]

Director CGHS(P)

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MEETING OF NFPE LEADERS WITH 7th CENTRAL PAY COMISSION

A meeting of NFPE Leaders consisting Coms. R.N. Parashar Secretary General , Giriraj Singh , General Secretary-R-III, N. Subramainan General Secretary P-III, R. Seethalaxmi General Secretary P-IV, P. Suresh General Secretary R-IV , Pranab Bhattacharya General Secretary Admn., T. Satyanarayana General Secretary Postal Accounts, Virendra Tiwari General Secretary AIPSBCOEA, Pandu Ranga Rao General Secretary GDS(NFPE), R. Shivanarayana President P-III, S.K. Bardhan President R-III, S.P. Kulkarni President AIPSBCOEA, Balwinder Singh Treasurer P-III, Manohar Lal Vice President P-IV, was held with Chairman of 7th CPC Justice A.K. Mathur alongwith Smt. Meena Agrawal , Secretary, Shri Jayanyt Sinha Jt. Secretary , Shri Vivek Rae Member, Shri Y. Shukla, Director, Shri Rajeev Mishra Advisor, Shri Mudit Mittal Director, at 7th CPC Office Chhatrapati Shivaji Bhawan Qutab Institutional Area , New Delhi.

Com. R.N. Parashar, Secretary General NFPE after welcoming Chairman & other members initiated oral evidence on memorandum submitted by NFPE. He narrated all important points related to Postal, RMS, MMS, Admn, Offices, Postal Accounts, SBCO and GDS issues alongwith Casual Labourers issues. All General Secretaries of NFPE affiliated unions presented their sectional issues very nicely.

The most important thing of this meeting was that Chairman gave a patient hearing on GDS issues. Com. P. Panduranga Rao General Secretary, GDS (NFPE) presented the case of GDS in perfect manner and again submitted a copy of memorandum to Chairman, Hon!ble Chairman also gave positive assurances on most of the issues.

Meeting was ended in a very cordial environment.

Source: NFPE

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Central Government to hold stress relief programmes for officers: Dr. Jitendra Singh

The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh has said here today that the Govt of India’s Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) will hold a series of regular “stress relief” and rejuvenating programmes including Yoga, workshops, sports, cultural events, etc. for IAS, Civil Services and other government officers in order to help them maintain a conducive frame of mind and ensure a harmonious well-being. At the same time, DoPT has also mooted a “stress management” segment in the Induction course for new employees joining State Services in the three States of Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, and based on the experience from these three States, the same practice would be replicated in other States as well.

Dr Jitendra Singh said such efforts not only help in rejuvenating the energies and spirits of officers who are subjected to increasing work load and office stress but also help in bringing together the fraternity of civil service officers from all over India thus promoting a spirit of comradeship among them.

Increasing accountability and rising expectation level in administrative work tend to take their toll, said Dr Jitendra Singh and therefore, in-house provisions for stress management are called for. In this context, he referred to a two-day “Stress management” programme for officers being organized at New Delhi on 28th and 29th of this month followed by a Yoga course for officers beginning from April in forty different centers across India.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the DoPT will not only plan events for government officials but will also devise programmes for their children in the form of academic tutorials, summer coaching camps, etc.

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Revision of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance as a result of enhancement of Dearness Allowance w.e.f. 1.1.2014

No. 416/2008-Esft. (Pay II)

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Department of Personnel & Training

North Block, New Delhi

dated the 24th March, 2015

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revision of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance as a result of enhancement of Dearness Allowance w.e.f. 1.1.2014

References are being received from various Ministries with regard to the amount of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance admissible consequent upon enhancement of Dearness Allowance payable to Central Government employees @ 100% w.e.f. 1st January, 2014 announced vide Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure O.M. No.1/1/2014-E-II (B) dated 27th March, 2014.

2. This Departments O.M. 4/6/2008-Est(Pay II) dated 1.10.2008 provides that the rates of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance will be increased by 25% every time the Dearness Allowance payable on revised pay scales goes up by 50%.

3. All Ministries/Departments are therefore, again advised to take necessary action accordingly.

( A.K. Jain)

Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

Source: www.persmin.nic.in

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7th pay commission calculators give imaginary answers

There is lot of calculators available in blogs and social media to calculate pay and allowance of 7th pay commission. People who saw these calculators wonder ‘did the 7th pay commission submit its Recommendation to the Government?’. OMG… When did the 7th pay commission submit its report to the central government? The Bapus started enquire about these calculators from everybody who are in Federations and Associations. Even they don’t know how the pay scales would be recommended by 7th pay commission? How much percentage of increase the 7th pay commission would recommend in its report? But calculators do keep coming in day to day basis. Does it worth to calculate our basic pay through this so called 7th pay commission calculators?

Everybody should understand that to review and recommend the revised pay scales for 30 Lakhs Central Government employees is not a joke. It is just more than serious business. The 7th pay commission comprises many Bureaucrats and many officials headed by renowned Supreme Court Judge, require more than 18 months’ time to interview hundreds of officials from Departments / Ministries and Representatives of Unions /Federations to get their views. The whole team of the 7th pay commission has to handle huge volumes of data to analyse the Service Condition and Socio Economic Conditions of the government servants before it start to recommend Pay and Allowance to entire community of the central government employees. The pay commission while recommending revision in pay and allowances has to take into account various factors like the economic conditions in the country, the resources of the Central Government and the global economic scenario as well as the impact upon the finances of the States, if the recommendations are adopted by them.

To recommend revised pay scales for 30Lakhs Central Government Employees is indeed an arduous Journey to perform. The 7th Pay commission, since its constitution, is doing commendable job. The Commission issued a Questionnaire and invited comments for their questionnaire invariably from government organizations, unions/ federations and from the Public also. Federations and Unions and Govt organization have been asked by the pay commission to submit the Memorandum to the commission.

The Seventh pay commission engaged with a variety of stakeholders, on issues which it has been mandated to cover, through series of Meetings from 16-6-2014. The Commission so far held 235 Meetings in 38 days from the Month of June 2014 to February 2015 with various Association/ Federations/Unions and Representatives of Ministries/ Departments. They have to go through all the inputs received from the above sources. All the Federations and Associations have been meeting with the 7th pay commission for the past eight months submitted their views and proposals to the commission. Since the federations, who knew their service conditions and department issues very well, have come across many pay commission, they would have discussed about their service condition and their departmental specific issues with 7th pay commission and discussed about their expectation over pay and allowances. So the only reliable source to tell anything about the Pay commission’s perspective is Pay commission officials or those who met with them. But none of them come forward to say anything about the views of 7th pay commission and never disclosed anything about the Pay Structure since they are not supposed to do so.

But so many 7th pay commission calculators keep coming in blogs. Did the Calculators do anything said above before it was made? Have these so called 7th pay commission calculators taken all the above factors in to the account before it was made? The Principles Applied for revising pay scales in each pay commission was entirely different. But, as for as sixth pay commission is concerned, the pay Structure itself was entirely different from previous Pay Structures of last 5 pay commissions. All the Unions, Associations and Federations have insisted 7th Pay Commission, through their memorandum, that the Running Pay Band and Grade Pay system to be dropped and Pre Revised Pay scale system to be adopted. So until now nobody knows what would be the principle to be adopted for revising pay scales for 7th pay commission? And what is the pay structure that 7th pay commission would recommend? In this context, “is it wise to calculate our 7th CPC basic pay through these premature calculators?” Hope it is not.

We assure our readers, we will keep updating you all the latest news about 7th pay commission and service related issues of central government employees. The pay commission is yet to submit its report. The stipulated time to submit its report is August 2015. But it is expected that the time may be extended and 7th pay commission would submit its report by the month of October 2015. Immediately after the 7th pay commission’s report is published by the central government, our gservants team will come up with simple and reliable 7th pay commission calculator for our readers to calculate the 7th CPC pay and allowances.

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NCJCM asked 7th pay commission to allot sufficient time for Railway and Defence Federations

National Council (Staff Side)

Joint Consultative Machinery for Central Government Employees

New Delhi

No.AIRF/405(VII CPC)

Dated. March 20, 2015

       The Secretary,

       Seventh Central Pay Commission, Chatrapati Shivaji Bhawan,

       1st Floor, B-14/A,

       Qutab Institutional Area, New Delhi 110016

                                                             Attn.: Ms Meena Agarwal

Dear Madam,

      Sub: Oral Evidence of the AIRF before the VII CPC

      Ref.: Secretary, VII CPC’s letter No.7CPC/158/Meetings/2015 dated 19.03.2015

We are very much thankful to Seventh Central Pay Commission for giving an opportunity to the Constituent Organizations of the National Council(JCM) for Oral Evidence before the Seventh Central Pay Commission, but at the same we submit that, the time allotted is quite short, particularly for the Railways and Defence.

It is worthwhile to mention here that the VI CPC had given us sufficient time to represent

136 categories and 13 lakh Railwaymen, spread throughout the Indian Railways as well as to other Central Government Organizations.

We do hope, the VII CPC will appreciate our viewpoint and allot sufficient time to represent the views of the Central Government employees of different categories

With regards

Yours Faithfully

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

Secretary NC/JCM(Staff Side)

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Clarification on crucial date of determination of age of 56 years for induction into AIS

F.No.14015/30/2015-AIS-I

Government of India

Ministry of personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Departments of Personnel and Training

North block, New Delhi

Dated the 20th March, 2015

Office Memorandum

Subject: Clarification on crucial date of determination of age of 56 years for induction into AIS and its applicability with reference to the year of select list-regarding

The undersigned is directed to refer to the subject cited above and to say that on the direction of Hon’ble Supreme Court, and in consultation with Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of home affairs, ministry of environment and forest, UPSC and the state Governments, the central government has decided to raise maximum age limit from 54 years to 56 years for promotion/induction from state service/Non-state Civil Service to All India Service with effect from the Select List of 2015 with crucial date of determination of age as 01.01.2015. In order to implement this decision, this Department has issued four notifications dated 17.03.2015 amending the following date of their publication in the official gazette:-

(i) Regulation 5 (3) of Indian Administrative Service (Appointment by Promotion) Regulations, 1955;

(ii) Regulation 5 (3) of Indian police service (Appointment by Promotion) Regulations, 1955;

(iii) Regulation 5 (3) of Indian Forest Service (Appointment by Promotion) Regulations, 1966; and

(iv) Proviso 1 below Regulation 4(1)(iii) of Indian Administrative Service (Appointment by Selection) Regulation, 1997

2. Further, as decided by the Government, anomaly in Non-SCS Select List vis-à-vis SCS Select List for the vacancies arising during the same year has been removed through OM dated 17.3.2015. As per this OM, for the Vacancies arising during the period 1.1.2014 to 31.12.2014, the select list of Non-SCS officers will be styled as Selected List-2014-A instead of Selected List 2015. The select list of SCS officers had already been styled coinciding with the year of the vacancies from the year 2010, after the clarificatory OM dated 25.08.2010. Thus, for the vacancies arising during the year 2015 (between 1.1.2015 to 31.12.2015), the Select List for both SCS officers as well as Non-SCS officers will be styled as Select List-2015.

3. Now, for the benefit of all stakeholders, it is clarified that the above amendments are applicable for the Select Lists of 2015 (vacancies arising between 01.01.2015 to 31.12.2015) and onwards with crucial date for determination of age as 1 st January of that Select List year. For example, for the Select List of 2015, the upper age limit for consideration will be 56 years with crucial date for determination of age as 01.01.2015.

4 In so far as the Select Lists of State Service/Non-State Civil Service officers of 2014/2014-A to be prepared for the vacancies arisen between 1.1.2014 to 31.12.2014 are concerned, the same would be prepared in accordance with the regulations existing in 2014. In other words, up-to the Select Lists of 2014/2014-A, the maximum age limit for consideration for induction into AIS would be 54 years and the same would be reckoned as on 1st January of the respective Select List year.

5(i). For further clarity, for example, 10 and 2 vacancies arose during 01.01 .2014 to 31.12 2014 in West Bengal cadre in the SCS and Non-SCS category respectively. The Select List for SCS officers would be styled as Select List 2014 and for Non-SCS officers, it would be styled as Select List 2014-A. The Selection Committee Meetings would be held in 2015 and the upper age limit will be 54 years with crucial date of determination as 01.01.2014 for both the category of officers.

(ii) Similarly, if 6 and 2 vacancies arise during 01.01.2015 to 31.12.2015 in Odisha cadre in the SCS and Non-SCS category respectively the Select Lists would be styled as Select List 2015 for both the category of officers. The Selection Committee Meetings for Select List 2015 would be held in 2016 and the upper age limit will be 56 years with crucial date of determination as 01.01.2015 for both SCs and Non-SCs officers.

6. All State Governments/Cadre Controlling Authorities and UPSC are, therefore, requested to implement the aforementioned amendments ¡n accordance with the above clarifications,

Sd/-

(Gayatri Mishra)

Director

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Stress management classes for Central Government employees

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS

RAJYA SABHA

QUESTION NO 230

ANSWERED ON 19.03.2015

Stress management classes for Government employees

230 Smt. Wansuk Syiem

Will the Minister of PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS be pleased to satate :-

(a) whether in a move akin to the corporate sector practices, Government would soon kick-start stress-management and efficiency improvement classes for its employees, conducted by the National Council for Training and Social Research;

(b) whether this programme is designed for office staff including personal staff, middle level officers and senior staff members in Government departments and PSUs; and

(c) whether the cost of training during a three-day programme, ranging from Rs.20,000/- to Rs.45,000/- per employee would be borne by Government?

ANSWER

Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office. (DR. JITENDRA SINGH)

(a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT AS REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (c) OF RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. *230 ASKED BY SHRIMATI WANSUK SYIEM REGARDING STRESS MANAGEMENT CLASSES FOR GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES FOR ANSWER ON 19.03.2015.

(a): Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) is the nodal department for coordinating the implementation of National Training Policy (NTP). The departments/ ministries are required to conduct training for their cadres/ employees through various training programmes as per their need, under this Policy. At present, there is no proposal under consideration of Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) for organizing any programme on stress management and efficiency improvement through National Council for Training and Social Research, New Delhi.

However, Ministry of Labour and Employment has sought nominations from its officials, including the office of Director General Labour Welfare, Jaisalmer House for a three days technical workshop on “Stress & Stress Management & Staff Development In Improving Enhancing Efficiency and Behavioural Skills” to be organised by National Council for Training & Social Research, New Delhi from 9th to 11th April, 2015.

So far no nomination has been received in the Ministry of Labour.

(b) & (c): Yes Sir, as per the letter received from National Council for Training & Social Research, New Delhi, this programme is designed for the office staff including personal staff, middle level officers and senior staff members working in Administration, Personnel Management Divisions of the Government Departments and Public Sector Undertakings / Autonomous Organisation. The cost indicated by the organisation is ranging from Rs. 19600.00 to Rs. 39600.00 per candidate.

After receiving nominations, the Ministry of Labour would examine financial implications and take appropriate decision.

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Meeting to Discuss Consultative Process for Formulation of New Education Policy Held

To discuss the consultative process for formulation of New Education Policy (NEP), the Ministry of Human Resource Development organised a meeting of State Education Ministers and State School/Higher Education Secretaries here today.

Smt. Smriti Irani, Union Minister for Human Resource Development in her keynote address congratulated the State Education Ministers for the success that the Government was able to achieve in the preceding ten months due to the cooperative federalism and by practicing minimum government and maximum governance. The main objective of the meeting was to initiate discussion on the consultation process for the New Education Policy and seek views, comments and suggestions of different States.

The Minister highlighted that for the first time in the history of education policy making, every citizen is given an opportunity to express his/her views. The consultation process involves participation from the grassroot level to the state, regional and national levels in bringing out a comprehensive policy which will reflect the aspirations and needs of the country. It will also seek to meet the inherent needs of stakeholders, students and their parents whose goal is to make their children a better human being and a better citizen. The Minister stressed the point that the meeting is for open consultation and the way forward for cooperative federalism.

The MHRD presentation also explained the grassroot consultation process which was followed by a presentation by the MyGov portal team on the ICT enablement to make this process work at the grassroot level through the state machinery.

There was an active participation from the State Governments both with regard to the content that needs to go into the policy and the processes involved.

The meeting was attended by 22 State/UT Education Ministers along-with Education Secretaries and other senior officers including State Information Officers (SIOs). Both the Secretaries of School Education & Literacy and Higher Education addressed the august gathering and gave an overview of the identified themes. Senior officers of both the Department of Higher Education and Department & Literacy of Ministry of Human Resource Development also participated in the meeting.

pib

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7th Pay Commission to Meet AIRF on 7th and 8th April 2015

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

SEVENTH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION

MEENA AGARWAL
SECREATARY

D.O No. 7CPC/158/Meetings/2015

19th March, 2015

Dear Shri mishra,

The Seventh, Central Pay Commission has, from the time of its constitution, engaged with a variety of stakeholders on the issues which it has been mandated to cover in accordance with its terms of reference. Based on the wide ranging interaction the Commission has had in this period, certain broad issues have emerged before the Commission. The Commission has also been seeking from individual Ministries/ Departments their views on the issues posed, in relation to matters that are relevant to the Ministries.

The Commission has had the occasion to interact with the Federation in May 2014. A meeting was also held on 25 February 2015 with the National Council (Staff side) wherein it was agreed that the Commission would have a detailed engagement with the Staff side as part of its final deliberations.

Accordingly, a meeting with the 7th Central Pay Commission has been scheduled for the Federation on two successive days viz. 7 and 8 April 2015. between 10.30 am and 1 pm in the Conference Room 1 floor B-14/A Chatrapati Shivaji Bhawan, Qutub Institutional Area, New Delhi,

With Regards

Yours Sincerely,

Sd/-

(Meena Agarwal)

Shri Shiv Copal Mishra

General Secretary

All India Railwayrnens’ Federation

4, State Entry Road

New Delhi- 110055

source : www.airfindia.org

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Reservation for women in direct recruitment in Non-Gazetted posts in police forces

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today gave its approval for making reservation of 33 percent for women, horizontally and in each category (SC/ST/OBC and others) in direct recruitment in non-gazetted posts from Constables to sub-inspector in the police forces of all Union Territories, including Delhi Police. The Cabinet also approved that suitable enabling provisions in the Recruitment Rules should be made accordingly by all UTs police forces including Delhi Police. The reservation will be available to women against all such vacancies existing on the date of issue of the order after Cabinet approval and vacancies arising thereafter.

This decision will help in augmenting the representation of the women in the police forces of all UTs and Delhi Police so as to make the police more gender sensitive. It will also instill confidence among women to enable them to approach the police without hesitation for seeking protection and assistance as and when required.

Background:

It is well accepted that a society or a nation can progress rapidly in an equitable manner if and only if women are provided equal opportunities to participate in social, political and economic activities. The police is the first line of interface between citizens and the Governmental law enforcement machinery. It has been observed that many women do not approach the police, as they may have to confide or report the incident to a male police officer. This is particularly so in respect of sex related crimes. A skewed police force with adequate gender representation is a major practical barrier in effective implementation of legislation intended for the protection of women.

After the ‘Nirbhaya’ incident, based on the recommendations of the Justice (Retd.) Verma Report, the Ministry of Home Affairs has enacted the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 which has made significant changes in the provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.PC) and the Indian Evidence Act relating to women. One of the notable amendments related specifically to women is that in section 154 and 161 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a proviso has been inserted to make it mandatory that the reports of crimes against women as well as their statements are collected by women police officers or women officers only.

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Yoga Training Sessions for Central Government Employees

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL. & TRAINING

MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS

NORTH BLOCK, NEW DELHI-110001

File No. 11012/2/2014-Welfare

20.03.2015

CIRCULAR

YOGA TRAINING SESSIONS

Department of Personnel and Training, Govt. of India is organizing Yoga Training Sessions from 1st April 2015 for the benefit of Central Government Employees and their dependents at Grih Kalyan Kendra (GKK) Samaj Sadans as per enclosed list in association with Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, New Delhi. No registration/training fees will be charged,

Timing: 

- 06.30 AM to 08.30 AM

04.30 PM to 06.30 PM

(All days except Sundays / Gazetted holidays)

2. For registration for the Yoga Sessions kindly contact thc officials of Grih Kalyan Kendra (GKK) present at the respective venues.

3. For inquires kindly contact: –

Phone Numbers : 24616219, 24648081, 24616218

Mobile Numbers : 8750070303, 98411770184

E-Mail : grihkalyankendra@rediffmail.com

4. It is requested that this circular may be given wide publicity.

(N.Sriraman)

Director(Welfare),DOPT

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Formats for filing returns under declaration of Assets and Liabilities – Clarification

No.407/12/2014-AVD-IV-B

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Department of Personnel and Training

North Block, New Delhi-110001.

Dated the 18.03.2015.

Subject : Declaration of Assets and Liabilities by public servants under section 44 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 – Clarification regarding formats to be used for filing returns under the Act.

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s DO letter of even No. dated 29th December, 2014 and the O.M. of even No. dated it January, 2015 regarding furnishing of information relating to assets and liabilities by public servants under section 44 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, forwarding therewith copies of the Central Government’s notifications dated 26th December, 2014 containing :-

(a) Amendment to the Lokpal & Lokayuktas (Removal of Difficulties) Order, 2014, for the purpose of extending the time limit for carrying out necessary changes in the relevant rules relating to different services from “three hundred and sixty days” to “eighteen months” , from the date on which the Act came into force, i.e., 16 th January, 2014; and

(b) The Public Servants (Furnishing of Information and Annual Return of Assets and Liabilities and the Limits for Exemption of Assets in Filing Returns) Amendment Rules, 2014, extending the time limit for filing of revised returns (pl see proviso under sub- rule 2 of rule 3 of the principal rules) by all public servants from 31st December 2014 to 30th April, 2015.

2. In this regard, it is clarified that:-

(i) The first return (as on l at August, 2014) under the Lokpal Act should be filed on or before the 30th April, 2015;

(ii) The next annual return under the the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 for the year ending 3lst March, 2015 should be filed on or before 31 st July, 2015; and

(iii) The annual return for subsequent years as on 31st March every year should be filed on or before 31 6t July of that year.

3. The following Assets & Liabilities Return forms (both in English and Hindi) are enclosed herewith as indicated below:

A. Declaration to be filed with Return of Assets and Liabilities on First Appointment or as on the 31st March, 20…….. (Under Sec 44 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.) [Appendix-I of the notification dated 14.07.2014].

B.

(a) FORM No. I – Details of Public Servant, his/ her spouse and dependent children[Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014].

(b) Modified FORM No. II – Statement of movable property on first appointment or as on the 31st March, 20…[Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014 as modified vide notification dated 26.12.2014].

(c) FORM NO. III – Statement of immovable property on first appointment or as on the 31st March, 20…. (e.g. Lands, House, Shops, Other Buildings, etc.) [Held by Public Servant, his/her spouse and dependent children] [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014].

(d) Modified FORM No. IV – Statement of Debts and Other Liabilities on first appointment or as on 31st March, 20…. [Appendix-II of the notification dated 14.07.2014 as modified vide notification dated 26.12.2014].

4. It is requested to ensure that all officers and staff in your Ministry/ Department/ organizations file the said declarations/returns within the prescribed time-limits, in the aforementioned forms.

sd/-

(Jishnu Barua)

Joint secretary(V-2)

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DOPT Plans to Bring helicopter rides under the LTC scheme -ET

NEW DELHI: The government is discussing a proposal to allow its employees to claim leave travel concession for domestic helicopter flights, a move seen boosting the helicopter-ferrying business.

At present, central government employees can claim leave travel concession (LTC) only for using scheduled commercial airline flights, preferably Air India. According to a civil aviation ministry official, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) had sought a cost analysis of helicopter rides in the country.

“We have sent our analysis to the DoPT on the cost of flying in a helicopter. They had asked for it since they plan to bring helicopter rides under the LTC scheme,” the official, who did not wish to be named, told ET. The helicopter industry has welcomed the proposal, which aims to extend the travel concession to some 3 million central government workers.

“It creates business for helicopter operators in the country. Currently, helicopter operations are available in areas that have difficult terrain and no other means of connectivity, as helicopter rides are expensive,” said Harsh Vardhan Sharma, treasurer at Business Aircraft Operators’ Association and owner of Himalayan Heli Services Ltd, a helicopter operator.

“The rides are expensive because there is less demand. A move like this would increase volumes that will bring down fares in the affordable category.” According to Sharma, helicopter fare for the Katra-Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine ride has come down by half mainly due to volumes.

“During peak season, helicopter operators ferry about 1,000 people a day that comes down to about 800 a day during non-peak season between Katra and Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. This had led to a 50% fall in fares from its high fare days,” Sharma said.

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Kayakulp Council Constituted for Railways

Shiv Gopal Mishra, General Secretary, All Indian Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) and

       Dr. M. Raghavaiah, General Secretary, National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR),

Yet Another Fullfilment Of Promise Made In Railway Budget Speech 2015-16

Taking immediate follow up action in implementing the Budget announcement, the Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu has now constituted the ‘Kayakulp’ Council and has appointed Shri Ratan Tata to head this Council. The purpose of the Council is to recommend innovative methods and processes for the improvement, betterment and transformation of the Indian Railways.

This Council would be a standing body and would interact with all stakeholders and other interested parties. This Council would initially also have Shiv Gopal Mishra, General Secretary, All Indian Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) and Dr. M. Raghavaiah, General Secretary, National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR), the two recognized federations representing the railway employees as members.

The other members of the Council would be announced in due course.

This setting up of the Council is yet another fulfillment of the promise

made in the Railway Budget Speech. The Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu while presenting the Railway Budget 2015-16 in Parliament on 26th February 2015 said –“Every dynamic and thriving organization needs to innovate and re-invent its practices. In accordance with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister for Innovation, Technology Development and Manufacturing, the Indian Railways intend to set up an innovation council called “Kayakalp” for the purpose of business re-engineering and introducing a spirit of innovative in Railways.”

PIB

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Holiday on 14th April 2015 on account of Birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

(Department of Personnel & Training)

North Block, New Delhi

Dated the 19th March, 2015.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Declaration of Holiday on 14th April, 2015- Birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

It has been decided to declare Tuesday, the 14th April 2015, as a Closed Holiday on account of the birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, for all Central Government Offices including Industrial Establishments throughout India.

2. The above holiday is also being notified in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (26 of 1881).

3. All Ministries/ Departments of Government of India may bring the above decision to the notice of all concerned.

Sd/-

(Mrs.K.Kipgen)

Director(JCA)

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Change in Training System Due to Terrorism and Naxalism

The changes carried out in the training system imparted by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVP NPA), Hyderabad to Indian Police Service Officers Trainees are as follows:

(i) Introduction of a new subject “Internal Security” since 2011.

(ii) Revision and updation of the subject of “Field Craft and tactics”, and increasing its marks from 50 to 200 since 2011 thus emphasizing the importance of application of knowledge and skills to counter and threat of terrorism/naxalism.

(iii) Establishment of Special Tactics Wing in the Academy since 2009 which imparts specialized practical training to the Officer Trainees to prepare them for the challenges related to countering terrorism/naxalism;

(iv) Fine-tuning of the syllabus at micro level on annual basis as per the challenges arising in the field.

The Central Government and its various agencies organize a number of training programmes for Indian Administrative Service officers, Indian Police Service Officers as well as State Police and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel on a continuous basis on various aspects of Left Wing Extremist/terrorist operations. Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration, Mussoorie provides inputs on Law and Order, National Security and developmental challenges to the officers. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad provides training to senior police officers of various States and CAPFs to fight with the naxalites/terrorists and to face the challenges of Internal Security. North Eastern Police Academy, Meghalaya provides training on Counter-Insurgency and anti-Naxal operations to police officers. Most State Police Forces have set up their own training institutions also to impart comprehensive training to their forces.

Indian Police Service Officer Trainees are attached with Greyhound Training Centre, Hyderabad for Jungle Warfare Training and Central School of Weapons & Tactics (CSWT), Indore for getting advanced training in weapons as a part of their training. The SVP NPA has also taken the initiative of conducting tailor-made tactical courses for various State Police Academies.

This was stated by the Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and Minister of State in Prime Minister’s office Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply to a question by Shri Harivansh in the Rajya Sabha today.

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Fine for harassment of women at workplace

The Supreme Court of India laid down formal guidelines for dealing with sexual harassment at the workplace in the case of Vishakha Vs. State of Rajasthan. The guidelines clearly state that all workplaces should constitute a Complaint Committee to deal with complaints of sexual harassment. Taking forward the Supreme Court guidelines, “Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013” was enacted which came into force with effect from 9th December 2013.

The Act casts a responsibility on every employer to create an environment which is free from sexual harassment. Employers are required to organize workshops and awareness programmes at regular intervals for sensitizing the employees about the provision of this legislation and display notices regarding the constitution of Internal Committee, penal consequences of sexual harassment etc. An employer will be liable to a fine of Rs 50,000/- in case of violation of his duties under the Act and in case of subsequent violations, the amount of fine will be double together with penalty in the form of cancelation of his licence, withdrawal or non-renewal of the registration required for carrying out his activity.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development had issued advisories to States/UTs to ensure effective implementation of the Act. The Ministries/Departments in Government of India have also been advised to ensure the compliance of the Act.

This information was given by the Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi a in written reply to an unstarred question in the Rajya Sabha today.

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Driving License Charge can be reimbursed for Dispatch rider and MTS

No.35011/1/2014-Estt.(D)

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions

Department of Personnel & Training

North Block, New Delhi

Dated the 19th March, 2015

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Reimbursement of expenditure on account of acquiring driving license for Motor cars to Dispatch Rider / MTS.

The undersigned is directed to say that a revised Model Recruitment Rules (RRs) for the post of staff car driver has been issued vide this Department OM No. AB- 14017/10/2014-Estt (RR) dated 4.7.2014. Accordingly Ministries / Departments have been advised to review the existing rules to bring them in conformity with the model RRs. It may

be observed from column 10 of the model RRs that the method of recruitment prescribed for filling up the post of staff car driver (ordinary grade) is “Deputation/absorption failing which by direct recruitment”. With regard to Deputation / Absorption following criteria has been prescribed:-

“From amongst the regular Dispatch Rider (Group C) and Group C employees in Pay Band I Rs. 5200-20200 Grade pay Rs. 1800 in the same Ministry / Department who possess valid Driving License for Motor Cars on the basis of a Driving Test to assess the competence to drive Motor Cars failing which from officials holding the post of Dispatch Rider on regular basis or regular Group C employees in Pay Band 1 Rs. 5200-20200 Grade Pay Rs. 1800 in other Ministries / Department of the Central Government who fulfil the necessary qualifications as mentioned in column 7/’

2. To encourage filling up of the post of Staff Car Driver through the method of Deputation/Absorption of Despatch Rider and Group ‘C’ employees in Pay Band I with Grade Pay of Rs.1800/-, it has been decided to reimburse the expenditure incurred on account of acquiring Driving Licence for Motor Cars to Despatch Riders (DR)/MTS subject to the condition that reimbursement is allowed to only such DRs/MTS who otherwise fulfil the

criteria laid down in the RRs for appointment as Staff Car Drivers.

3. This issues with the concurrence of Department of Expenditure vide their OM FTS No. 16056/E.Coord-2015 dated 13th February, 2015.

(S. Prasad)

Under Secretary to the Govt. of India

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NFIR Objects the Views of Committee on evolving New formula for PLB

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen

3, CHELMSFORD ROAD, NEW DELHI – 110 055

Affiliated to :

Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)

International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)

No. I/10 Part-IV

Dated: 12/03/2015

The Secretary (E),

Railway Board,

New Delhi.

Dear Sir,

Sub: Committee for evolving a new formula for Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) on Indian Railways – reg.

Ref:

(i) Railway Board’s letter No. ERC-1/2014/23/15 dated 21/03/2014.

(ii) NFIR’s letter No. I/10/Pt. IV dated 09/04/2014.

(iii) Railway Board’s letter No. E(P&A)II-2013/PLB-8 dated 11/02/2015 and 03/03/2015.

         At the outset, NFIR invites kind attention of the Railway Board to Federation’s letter dated 09/04/2014 wherein Federation had conveyed its disagreement to the Railway Board’s decision for disturbing the bipartite agreement and proceeding with formation of a Committee of AMs for evolving new formula for calculation of Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) in Railways.

2. NFIR also takes strong objection to the views of the AMs Committee who feel that the Scheme for PL Bonus for Railway employees was introduced in consultation with the two Federations. In this connection, NFIR desires to clarify that the bipartite agreement for payment of PL Bonus to Railway employees was signed jointly by the Railway Board and Federations on 22nd November 1979. Federations further desires to state that the agreement can only be modified with mutual consent of the stake holders.

3. From the above it could be seen that the PL Bonus agreement was reached in the year 1979 for providing substantial motivation to the workforce for achieving higher production by way of enhancing their output and improved quality of service. Over the years the freight loading has been improved as a result of dedicated efforts of workforce.

4. It is further stated that since the last two years, the Railway Board has been attempting to reduce the number of days of wages towards payment of PL Bonus in the name of Capital Input. There were strong protest and the Federations did not agree for any reduction of 78 days wages. The Railway Ministry had accordingly paid PL Bonus to Railway employees equivalent of 78 days wages with notional calculation of salary @ Rs. 3500 p.m. during two previous years. A bench mark “78 days wages” needs to be adopted in any case when a formula is required to be finalized in consultation with us. Equally the salary calculation ceiling should be removed as the payment of bonus for Railway employees is linked to the productivity as enunciated in the agreement dated 22 November 1979.

NFIR hopes that the Railway Board would give serious consideration to the above points and take steps towards reaching an agreement with the Federations in the interest of preserving healthy industrial relations in the Railways.

Yours faithfully,

(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)

General Secretary

source-NFIR

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