AIPEU P3 CHQ

2012-05-30T16:01:00.002+05:30

All India Postal Employees Union Group – ‘C’

All India RMS & MMS Employees Union Group ‘C’

National Association of Postal Employees Group ‘C’

National Union of RMS & MMS Employees Group ‘C’

Ref: PF/Cadre Review Dated – 29.05.2012

Dr. Salim Haque

DDG (P)

Department of Posts

Dak Bhawan, New Delhi – 110001

Sub: - Cadre Review Proposal

Apropos discussion held on 29.05.2012 on the above subject, the consolidated proposal from the staff side in respect of Group ‘B’ Non – Gazetted and Group ‘C’ cadre in operative side Postal Department is appended herewith.

It is requested to kindly consider the same as agreed upon in the said meeting cited in para supra.

DA: as above

With kind regards,

K. V. Sridharan D. Kishan Rao

General Secretary General Secretary

AIPEU Group ‘C’ NAPE Group ‘C’

Giriraj Singh D. Theagarajan

General Secretary General Secretary

AIRMS & MMS EU Group ‘C’ NURMS & MMS Group ‘C’

Proposal for Cadre Review in respect of Group B (Non Gazetted) & Group ‘C’ Cadre in operative side of Postal Department

1. JUSTIFICATION FOR CADRE REVIEW

1.1 In the first Chapter of the Annual report 2007-08 of the Department of Post under the Caption of 'Overview', it was mentioned that the Cadre Review was conducted in 2007 with the prime aim of restructuring the Cadre to meet the challenges to the Department, and especially to cater the marketing and business development.

1.2 Whereas the similar to the cadre review exercised at JAG/SAG level has not been extended to the grass root level employees who are actually carrying out the policy and programme of the Postal organisation despite there is ample justification after the modernisation of postal services and introduction of various new projects and products. Not even a single post of System Administrators for maintenance of hardware and software has so far been created despite the posts of Systems Manager/ Systems Administrators/ Project officers etc. are in existence by converting the Postal Assistant posts by keeping those posts vacant. Many Postal Assistant posts were now christened as Marketing Executives without any monetary benefits and also keeping the Postal Assistants posts vacant which are being managed by the rest of the staff without any monetary compensation.

1.3 As per the report cited above in para supra, there is a dire need to transform the human resources abundantly available in the Department to a multi dimensional one to meet the challenges and also to improve the services in the competition era for which the officials should be motivated by offering good packages and promotional opportunities.

1.4 The Cadre restructuring exercises have been done by the various departments in large scale. In many departments like Railways, Audit & Accounts, the cadre restructurings were exercised in Group C cadres many times and the ratio of promotional avenues between the feeder and promotional cadres are being maintained under the ratio of 20:80.

1.5 The Staff of the Postal Accounts in our department have also been blessed with this beneficial scheme of eighty percent upgradation of posts during Sep 87 based on the cadre restructuring to Postal Accounts staff exercised after the implementation of the Fourth Pay Commission's recommendations.

1.6 So far, in respect of Postal department, the Postal Board has not exercised any cadre restructuring to the Clerical (Group C) cadres but has resorted to other schemes like TBOP, BCR on matching Savings. The conception of TBOP/BCR was to ensure that an employee does not stagnate in the maximum of the pay scale of the Cadre and promote to next grade (Selection grade) in two spells (i.e) one first after 16 years and second after 26years of service. The agreement for TBOP and BCR were signed by providing matching savings for the schemes to the extent of 20% in supervisory and 6% in operative Posts and withdrawal of special pay and so on.

1.7 Prior to introduction of TBOP, in May 1974, by an agreement in the JCM Departmental Council, 20% of the posts in the operative grade were placed in the next higher grade of LSG. This was withdrawn at the time of introduction of TBOP, as the LSG promotions were granted on the length of service of individuals and not by the existence of posts under the TBOP scheme.

1.8 The Department has issued various clarifications on TBOP/BCR and in almost all the clarifications the TBOP and BCR promotions were equated with LSG & HSG II. HSG I promotions were accorded during the years in between 1995 to 1998 based on the BCR Gradation list. Suddenly in 1999, the TBOP & BCRs were termed as financial upgradations and they were denied the equal status with LSG & HSG II. Thus the benefits arrived after the TBOP/BCR in the years 1983/1991 were freezed and those promotions were lost its identity and sanctity. Finally while adopting MACP Promotions the erstwhile TBOP & BCR Schemes were scrapped and now not in existence. Thus all the three exercises similar to cadre review in different forms were withdrawn and virtually, it appears that there is no cadre review for Group C cadre has been exercised so far.

1.9 The Sixth Pay Commission did not recommend any separate pay scales for LSG & HSG II and resultantly the Pay Bands applicable to TBOP & BCR are thus being applied to LSG & HSG II promotions. After equating the TBOP & BCR with the similar Pay Band to LSG & HSG II, the contention of the Department that they are financial upgradation is having no relevance. Thus there is ample justification for exercising cadre restructuring for the supervisory cadres in the department.

1.10 Meanwhile, the Sixth CPC in its recommendations under para 3.3.17 maintained that it has refrained from conducting cadre review of individual services and left the job to the respective departments. Thus we propose the following proposal for cadre review for consideration.

1.11 Since we are aware that despite ample functional justification for upgradation of grade pay to the extent of Rs.2800/- to Postal Assistants, there is no chance of considering to grant higher pay scale to Postal Assistants under the proposed cadre restructuring, we are restraining ourselves only to the increase the number of supervisory posts in existence in respect of hierarchical cadre to the Postal assistants and formation of new cadres pertaining to technical posts.

1.12 It is pertinent to mention that in many departments, the percentage wise cadre restructuring of posts were considered and the functional justification has not been insisted. For example, Railways in the case of Ticket Checking staff who are in 1900 GP Entry level pay, have been provided with the promotional cadre like Senior Ticket Examiner; Head Ticket Examiner; and Chief Ticket Inspector. In the case of Railway Commercial clerks, who are in 2000 GP at Entry level pay, have promotional cadres like Senior commercial Clerks; Head Commercial Clerks; and Chief Commercial Clerks under the cadre restructuring doing the similar duty with different nomenclatures.

1.13 Under the Cadre Restructuring exercised in Railways 14% of officials are retained in Entry level pay scale of both these cadres; 16% officials in next pay scale level of 2400 GP; 46% to next level of 4200 GP; and remaining 24% in 4600 GP in the case of Ticket Checking Staff. Out of these staff most of them work as operative staff and the senior most staff only are working as Supervisors in second and third level and only the fourth level are fully real supervisory staff. According to Railway formula these higher cadre restructured posts were not based on functional justification. It is the bare fact that on functional justification basis many could not have obtained this much percentage of higher level posts.

1.14 Even though, we are of the opinion that the cadre restructuring shall be exercised at par with railways or at least with the earlier review made for staff car drivers based on the percentage of posts in basic cadre to each promotional categories, we are placing below the availability of functional justification also in case of PA cadre for kind information and consideration..

2. LSG, HSG II/HSG I

2.1 At the outset, we wish to place on record that the existing nomenclature for supervisory posts viz. LSG, HSG-II & HSG-I does not exhibit the nature of status to our world and it requires revision. Let it be called with the nomenclature of Supervisors, Senior Supervisors and Chief Supervisors or Executive Manager, Senior Manager, and Chief Manager. It is most opt to mention that the earlier station masters are now called as station managers; Engine drivers are now called as Loco Pilot; Group D is now called as Multi Tasked Staff; Mechanics sheds are called as care centres. Similarly, the Postal Assistant shall also be called with decent nomenclature instead of this present LSG, HSG II & HSG I

2.2 The Supervisors/Postmasters have omnibus task of management, providing guidance and supervision in all activities including the various marketing/business activities.

2.3 The scope and functions of Postmasters/Supervisors may broadly be categorised as follows.

(i) They are responsible for drawal/remittance of funds involving huge financial responsibility.

(ii) They have to enforce efficient supervision office and Postal operations.

(iii) They have to enforce the orders strictly in maintaining the office and its day to day functions.

(iv) They have to plan and execute the orders and promote more business and improve the mail functioning.

(v) They have to supervise the subordinates as on administrator and in some cases act as disciplinary authority also.

(vi) They should possess a through knowledge on all Postal transactions with updated rulings in order to run the office smoothly with the customer satisfaction.

(vii) They have to take all efforts for prompt delivery of mails besides averting any public complaints.

(viii)They have a thorough knowledge about their powers, responsibilities, and duties and also to acquaint him with all departmental rules and procedures

Under the changed scenario, due to complete modernisation and venturing various business activities, the role and responsibilities of the supervisors and postmasters become abundant and there is a dire need to place them in higher pay band of II right from LSG post onwards.

2.4 In nutshell, they should function as a Manager, Public Relation Officer, Bank Officer, Welfare Officer and also a good Administrator. Based on the job content, the responsibilities and specialised knowledge needed for efficient functioning; there is a sound case for upgradation of all the posts of Postmasters into supervisory cadre. After the decentralisation of various works at S. O. levels like RD/MIS works and launching various business activities there is a qualitative change in the supervisory duties of the Single/Double handed offices which require a better senior officials to supervise the work. Notwithstanding our claim to place the LSG in pay band II with grade pay of Rs.4200; HSG II to Rs.4600 & HSG I to Rs.4800, We are proposing the following for increase the number of supervisory posts which will cater the need and also based on the functional justification.

2.5 The Department is having a total number of Postal Assistants to the extent of 83,696 Posts. We are having 6989 LSG Posts, 1703 HSG II & 1649 HSG I Posts; out of which 2097 post of Postmaster Grade I, 511 posts of Grade II Postmaster & 495 posts of Grade I Postmaster were carved out while forming a separate cadre of Postmaster. While comparing the existence of basic cadre Postal Assistants, the present number of LSG Posts is just only 8.35%. Even the assured 20% operative posts in LSG during May 74 and implemented is no where in letter & spirit and we have gone back to the period prior to 1974.

2.6 The staff side therefore requests to consider the following proposals in the case of supervisors.

(i) Considering the more nature of supervisory works now available in B & C Class offices, the posts of SPMs of those offices may be upgraded to the present status of LSG with the revised nomenclature of 'Supervisor' or Manager. As on date we are having 11395 singled handed post offices and 6719 double handed offices. It will result in creation of new supervisory posts equivalent to present LSG cadre to be extent of 18114 which will work out to 21.65% LSG Supervisory posts.

(ii) The SPMs working in present 'A' class and LSG offices & other LSG supervisory posts may be upgraded to the present status of HSG II and called them as 'Senior Supervisor or Senior Manager'. This will add to the present LSG strength of 6989 with addition of 3732 postmaster of Triple handed post offices with the total strength of 10718 which will maintain the promotional avenues from LSG to HSG II to the extent ratio of 2 : 1.

(iii) The present posts in HSG II & HSG I may be amalgamated and called as 'Chief Supervisor or Chief Manager' with the present HSG I status. The existing posts of HSG II & HSG I to the extent of 1703 and 1649 posts respectively (i.e.) 3352 posts will maintain the ratio of promotions from HSG II to HSG I as 3:1

(iv) A separate identification to the extent of 30% of the HSG I posts may please be accorded as Non functional posts in Group B status with grade pay of Rs. 4800/- in Pay Band II.

2.7 If the above process of elevation of more supervisory posts considering the requirement of more supervisory posts on functional justification is carried out, it will provide more supervisory posts and not to have any disturbances in the pyramidal structure since the total no. of supervisory posts will work out to 32184 which is 38.45% not exceeding 40% of the basic cadre.

3. POSTMASTER’S CADRE

3.1 The Department has unilaterally introduced Postmaster’s Cadre vide its No. 4-17/2008-SPB II dt. 22.11.2010 by carving out 2097 LSG posts, 511 HSG II posts and 495 HSG I posts out of 5695 LSG posts, 1077 HSG II & 1176 HSG I posts. The staff side was not in favour for formation of separate cadre since it will create a division among the existing supervisors and also the concept of supervisors to know all the nature of work is being shrinking due to separate formation. However, the Postmaster cadre is being implemented as a separate hierarchical cadre.

3.2 The recruitment rules applicable to other supervisors are being applied in respect of Postmasters cadre. During cadre restructuring the following shall be considered.

i) When the Postmaster cadre is separately created, all the promotions up to the posts of Chief Postmaster shall be open only to that cadre. Entertaining IPO line officials is not fair. Their option may be obtained for postmaster cadre if willing. Thereafter all posts shall be filled up only from the Postmasters cadre.

ii) At the time of upgradation of more supervisory posts under cadre review, 1/3^rd posts may also be carved out for the postmasters cadre.

iii) At present there is no provision to fill up the Postmaster Grade I posts on seniority. The principle of 2/3^rd by Seniority and 1/3^rd by merit shall be introduced in Postmasters Grade-I also.

4. RMS

4.1 At present, there are 7599 Sorting Assistants; 5544 MACP II SAs & 3311 MACP III. Whereas the present supervisory posts available in the RMS in LSG 1053; HSG II 415; HSG-I 415, which is not even reaches 5% in LSG to the comparison of Sorting Assistant

4.2 After implementation of mail network redesign in speed post as well as First class mailing offices and there are vast changes being taken place, more promotional avenues shall be provided in RMS. Considering the above, more Promotional Posts in LSG, HSG-II & HSG-I equal to the ratio provided to Postal Assistant under the cadre review may please be considered, the existing promotional Posts shall be increased at least by three times.

4.3 Further a new cadre of Non Functional Group ‘B’ may please be carved out to the extend of 30% of the total HSG I Posts by providing one NFS Posts to each RMS division for effective supervision and monitoring.

5. SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATORS

5.1 The Sixth Pay Commission in its report vide item No. 7.6.21 observed interalia: -

"Postal Assistants assigned the jobs of Systems Administrators and Marketing Executives have demanded creation of a new cadre with higher pay scales. Creation of a new cadre in their case is not functionally justified. The commission, in any case, is not looking into demands relating to individual cadre reviews, status -quo may, therefore, need to be maintained especially because the existing scenario always usage of available manpower for need based multifarious function."

5.2 The Sixth CPC did not dealt the issue with due note of the existence of such category in postal exclusively performing the duties properly and arrived at the conclusion causing severe discontentment in the minds of the officials who are toiling since inception of computers in the post offices and rendered their unstinted service without any extra remuneration for the total computerisation of postal services.

5.3 From the report of the Sixth CPC, it is quite evident that the actual nature of work involved as 'Systems Administrators' in the Department of Posts has been quite misunderstood and the projection of the same has been made devoid of the acumen and dexterity actually involved. In nut shell, the work of 'Systems Administrators' has been evaluated on facts that are miles away from the ground realities. In other departments, the nature of work entrusted to Systems administrators are quite different and they are being with the grade pay of Rs.5400. Here we are calling them as systems administrators; but their role and responsibilities are entirely different.

5.4 In certain departments, the posts of ‘Computer Assistant’ or ‘System Assistant’ in the pay scale of Rs. 9300-34800 with grade pay of Rs. 4200/- have been created with the Qualification of graduation/BSC with PGDCA/DOEACC – A level with 55/- marks or two years’ experience is required for the selection as system assistant. The nature of work in existence in postal can be equated with that of systems assistants. Based on the same structure, a separate cadre of system Administrators can be created by providing further promotional avenues in the cadre.

5.5 The Department has formed a separate Technical wing at the Directorate to deal the problems of Systems oriented and it has given a hope that the long pending demands of the System Administrators would also be considered and decided. The Department has also constituted another three DDG Committee vide is letter No.1/1/2010-Sr dated 19.7.2010 comprising DDG (Estt), DDG (P) and DDG (Technology) to consider about creation of systems administrators cadre and directed to submit its report within three months. We are not aware of the recommendations of the committee.

5.6 Further, the Department of Posts vide its letter No. 23-15/2004-PE II dt 24.12.04, after the formation of Separate Committee under the Chairmanship of the DDG (Technology) directed to consider the following: -

(a) Assess which of special categories of Staff will be required at Sub Post offices, Head Post offices, Sorting offices, Speed Post centres as and various Administrative and Accounts offices to effectively tackle problems which arise while implementing the Computerization plan:

(b) Assess number of Staff in each of these special categories that will be required in SOs/HOs/Divisions etc and nomenclature (for example, PAC Technology). System administrator, Systems Manager etc.) for each category.

(i) Pay scales to be given to such staff

(ii) Selection criterion for such staff and career

(iii) Career progression for such staff.

5.7 The Director (T&E) has sought views and suggestions on the above vide his letter cited above. However, it seems no decision has so far been taken by the committee or Department.

5.8 According to Para 10.1 of the Annual report of 2010-11 of the Department of Posts, during the period from 1^stApril 2010 to 31^st December 2010 , computer hardware and peripherals have been supplied to 1811 post offices. Thus till December 2010, 14415 post offices have been computerised under Plan Scheme of Computerisation of Post offices. Further all Postal Circle Offices, Regional Offices, all Postal Accounts Offices and 1205 Divisional Offices have also been computerized. Besides, a number of enabled services were started in these post offices. The Govt has approved IT modernisation project of the Department of Posts for computerisation of all the non-computerised post offices, mail offices, administrative and other offices, establishment of required IT infrastructure, development of required software applications to be completed by 2012-13. .

5.9 The Department has entered with contracts for implementation of financial services solution and there are eight projects for the I.T. modernisation of India Post at on overall out lay of Rs.1877 crores. As per the contract for financial services solution, it includes commissioning of Postal Banking operations entailing core banking solution and ATM switch. The dept proposes to introduce and install Rural ICT hardware devices and providing network connectivity to 1.30 lakhs branch post offices enabling all post offices to perform e transactions.

5.10 It is very pertinent to point out that this could be achieved only by having specialised and trained man power pool inside our organisation. Imparting training, maintenance of hardware and software, attending faults at 1.30 lakhs branch post offices etc, we require a large number of expert personnel for which the creation of systems assistant or call by any name like Technical Assistant, Computer Assistant etc is inevitable. The role of existing Systems Administrators in total computerisation of Post offices must be recognised. They are very much frustrated and the discontentment is mounting due to the continuous exploitation of these categories over ten years.

5.11 It is therefore requested to consider their plights and convert the existing Systems Administrator posts as Promotional Cadre to Postal Assistants possessing required qualification in computer appreciations as if available in other departments for the post of Systems Assistant with grade pay of Rs.4200.

5.12 The existing Systems Administrators may be absorbed in the promotional posts by conducting simple Trade test in token of recognition of their services in the past in the total computerisation of post offices. It is pertinent to mention that it is only the postal department, the computerisation to this extent possible without engaging any outside agencies and also without incurring more expenses with the technically qualified Postal Assistants available in the department. They must be recognised by this way.

5.13 The pay scale of the Systems Assistants may be decided as follows.

Systems Assistants - Grade Pay 4200

I Promotion: Systems Manager - Grade Pay 4600

II Promotion: Sr. System Manager - Grade Pay 4800

10% posts may be identified as Gazetted with Grade pay of Rs.5400/- as existence in other departments as Systems Administrators for monitoring the entire Technical developments.

5.14 Even though all the supervisory posts in Postal operative side can look after the postmasters work and there is no need for creation of separate cadre, the Dept has created the Postmasters cadre recently which the staff side not resisted. Whereas in the case of Systems assistants, there is ample justification for creation of separate cadre considering the nature of their duties and requirement to the service and this may be considered in true spirit.

Notwithstanding our demand for the creation of System Asst. With Rs. 4200/- Grade Pay, it is agreeable to convert the Posts by LSG and other hierarchical promotions based on the functional requirements and declare it as a promotional cadre to Postal Assistants.

6. PO & RMS ACCOUNTANTS

6.1 The Sixth Pay Commission has rejected higher pay scale to PO & RMS Accountants as if there is no functional justification exists for the same and recommended to revise the special allowance of Rs.180/- in double the rates. The description of the Sixth CPC that they are not belonging to the organised accounts cadre without looking the merits through their nature of duties and responsibilities are nothing but a farce. This cadre has met a raw deal over the last three decades.

6.2 The comparative pay structure of Accountant post in different Department / Ministry / organized Sector are detailed below for kind perusal.

Name of the Department Designation / Existing pay scale after 5^th CPC/ Revised pay scale

Indian Audit & Accounts (a)Auditor/Accountant 4500-125-7000

Department/ subsequently revised to 5000-150-8000

(b) Sr Auditor/ Accountant 5500-175-900

(Para 7.56.4 6^th CPC) (c) Section Officer 6500-200-10500

Railway Department (a) Accountants Assistants 5000-150-8000

(Para 7.56.6 6^th CPC) (b) Divisional Accountant 5500-175-9000

Ministry of Consumer Affairs (a) Accountant cum cashier 5000-150-8000

Food & Public Dn (b) on promotion 5500-175-9000

(Para 7.1.14 6^th CPC) (c) -DO- 6500-200-10500

The Survey of India Land & (a) Accountant 5000-150-8000

Development Office (b) On Promotion 5500-175-9000

(Para 7.46.41 6^th CPC) (c) -DO- 6500-200-10500

Indian Tourism Office (a) Accountant 4500-125-7000

(Para 7.44.7 6^th CPC)

Postal A/Cs & Finance (a) Auditor / Accountant 5000-150-8000

(Para 7.56 6^thCPC) (b) Sr. Auditor/Accountant 5500-175-9000

6.3 This will be the testimony that this cadre of PO & RMS Accountant alone is deprived and denied the dues. The exploitation of this cadre is continuing over 20 years. This may please be pursued with the Government and see that the PO & RMS Accountants are placed at least with the Accountants working in Postal Accounts office of our department.

6.4 The following is the proposal, we desired to put forth for kind consideration

i. The Po & RMS Accountant examination may be declared as vacancy based examination instead of the present qualified one

ii. The official after their selection shall be posted as Accountant with the Grade Pay of Rs.2800.

iii. PO & RMS Accountants cadre shall be declared as a separate cadre with hierarchical promotional benefits.

iv. At the time of upgradation of 1622 HSG II posts to HSG I, many APM accounts LSG posts were identified as HSG I posts. Resultantly there is very lesser number of LSG Posts ie. in the feeder cadre available for promotion to PO & RMS Accountants. This has blocked the promotional chances for the existing PO &RMS Accountants .In many places, the due DPC for LSG posts could not held due to dearth of LSG vacancies. Hence, it is the dire need to restore the LSG position to the extent of 50% of the total posts of APM Accounts by upgrading simultaneously in the general line posts. Those posts can be identified to the present status of HSG II with Grade pay of Rs.4200.

v. 30% of the remaining APM Accounts post may be declared with present HSG I status with grade pay of Rs.4600.

vi. The remaining 20% of the APM Accounts posts may be declared as Gazetted posts with grade

pay of Rs.4800.

The determination of status on LSG, HSG II, HSGI and Gazetted may be decided based on the status of the offices and also the supervisory nature of the posts. This is possible. The nomenclature of the posts may also be changed at par with the proposals we suggested for the supervisory posts. Unless the cadre is declared as a separate one, the anomalies in existence over three decades will continue. It is therefore requested to consider the proposals by analysing all these factors prevailing in the work spot.

7. MISCELLANEOUS

7.1 In order to provide more promotional avenues to the youth possessing more skills & qualifications, the following establishments may be upgraded and elevated to the standards of supervisors.

(i) The Marketing Executives may also be declared as promotional supervisory posts as is done in the case of Town Inspectors in to LSG.

8. CIRCLE OFFICE STAFF

8.1 The present staff strength in circle offices available in Group ‘C’ is around 2500 and the existing promotional avenues is less than 8% in total and after conversion of LDC & UDC as single cadre of Postal Assistant, there is a total imbalance in respect of Circle office in respect of promotional posts.

8.2 It is therefore suggested that in promotional cadres like LSG, HSG II & HSG I may be created as in the same ratio of Postal Assistant and 30% as the HSG-I posts may be upgraded as NFS. The existing four posts of Group ‘B’ may please be merged with the other Group ‘B’ posts in officer’s line.

9. SBCO Staff

9-1 Total staff is 4100. There is no HSG II at present. It is suggested to provide four layers of promotions with the ratio of 50:20:20; 5:5. The SBCO in charge of All Gazetted HPOs (116) may be converted to HSG I. There are 442 divisions and all the in charge of such divisional head quarters may be considered for HSG II. It is further suggested that the in charge of SBCO having up to 50,000 entries may be converted to LSG, above 50,000 up to 100000 may be HSG II and above 1 lakh, it will be HSG-I, Similarly all working in (PWCs/ICOs shall be placed in promotional posts. The ration in promotional prospects as decided in case of Postal Assistant may please be rotational in case of PA SBCO also.

10. MATCHING SAVINGS

10.1 The question of matching savings does not arise since in most of the cadre, as there is no elevation in the pay scale, the officials who have already acquired the pay pertaining to the post shall alone get regular promotion.

10.2 The matching savings, we offered for TBOP/BCR have not been practically restored despite the Directorate orders 25-5/2010-PE I dt. 19.7.2010 since there is no chance of any new creation. As per the norms and after withdrawing the reduction of staff under TBOP/BCR Schemes w.e.f 1.9.2008, there is ample justification for creation of more new posts. As such, further matching savings in the shape of staff cut will ruin the developmental activities and efficiency of the postal services.

10.3 In token of acceptance of modernisation and various re organisations in the Postal set up, the officials shall be offered with more promotional avenues despite it will not cause any monetary benefits.

It is therefore requested that the proposal for cadre review may please be considered with due attention and the Group C employees may be granted with the promotional avenues. Satisfied Employees will perform well and render more satisfied work.

K. V. Sridharan D. Kishan Rao

General Secretary General Secretary

AIPEU Group ‘C’ NAPE Group ‘C’

Giriraj Singh D. Theagarajan

General Secretary General Secretary

AIRMS & MMS EU Group ‘C’ NURMS & MMS Group ‘C’

General Secretary’s Desk

2012-05-30T14:10:00.002+05:30

Dear Comrades,

Cadre Restructuring Committee on 29.05.2012

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Saleem Haque, Chairman of the Committee and DDG (P), Shri Alok Saxena DDG (Tech), Director (Est), ADG (Est) were present on behalf of official side. Com. K. V. Sridharan, Leader Staff side, Com. D. Theagarajan, Secretary General, FNPO, Com. Giriraj Singh, General Secretary, R-III Com. Ishwar Singh Dabas, General Secretary, P4, Com. D. Kishan Rao, General Secretary, P 3, NAPE and T. N. Rahate, General Secretary, General Secretary, P4 FNPO were representing staff side.

The following are the broad understandings reached in the Committee meeting.

1. Postal Assistant

(i) The proposal of the Staff side to upgrade 11395 single handed post offices and 6719 Double handed post offices to the status of LSG will be considered.

(ii) The present Post Masters in 3732 triple handed post offices and also the present LSG to the extent of 6989 will be upgraded to the status of HSG II.

(iii) The present HSG II and HSG I posts to the extent of 3352 Posts will be amalagamated.

(iv) A separate identification to the extent of 30% of HSG I posts as non functional Group ‘B’ posts with grade pay of Rs. 4800/- will be formed.

(v) 1/3^rdof the total LSG, HSG II, HSG I will be carved out as Postmaster Grade-I, Grade-II, and Grade-III respectively.

(vi) The posts of System Administrators will be made as LSG vice versa.

(vii) PO & RMS Accountant will be made as a separate channel of promotion by reidentifying the Posts of LSG, HSG-II and HSG I posts.

The RMS, Circle office and SBCO staff will be considered as per the ratio finalised in respect of Postal Assistant cadre.

The Official side accepted the above proposal and assured to consider the above and come out with the final decision shortly. As requested by them a common proposal of the Staff side has been submitted to day itself.

2. Cadre review for Postman & MTS’

(i) Since the MTS is the common category for all Central Govt. employees, there is no possibility of bringing them under cadre review.

(ii) As functional Justification could not be identified for the Postman and also the higher pay granted by the 6^th CPC, the official side did not favour any cadre review. However official side came forward with the proposal if the Postman cadre opts out from the MACP scheme and agree to take the percentage wise promotions it will be considered. It requires a deep study and the Postman unions will discuss the issue and come out with the proposals.

The chairman conveyed that the next meeting will be arranged in short notice to finalise the proposals.

3. March to Parliament

The Federal secretariat endorsed the decision of the Confederation National Executive to organize March to Parliament on 26.7.2012 and one day token strike thereafter.

The Federal Secretariat has fixed the quota target of participation in receipt of our union to the extent of 2000.

All Circle Secretaries are requested to organise the comrades as per the following quota fixed to each circle.

AP 100 Kerala 50

Assam 25 M P 100

Bihar 50 Maharashtra 100

Chhattisgarh 50 North East 25

Delhi 200 Orissa 100

Gujarat 100 Punjab 200

Haryana 200 Rajasthan 200

H P 100 Tamilnadu 100

J & K 50 Uttar Pradesh 300

Jharkhand 100 Uttarakhand 100

Karnataka 100 West Bengal 100

All Circle Secretaries and Divisional Secretaries are requested to book their Journey tickets in advance so as to reach on 26.7.2012 for particiting the rally. NFPE has organized an All India convention on the same day at Delhi on 26.07.2012. Similarly the AIPEU GDS (NFPE) has organized a Massive Dharna before the Parliament demanding departmentalization of GDS on 27.7.2012. The comrades of Delhi Circle desire to arrange a felicitation function to Com. K. V. Sridharan, General Secretary on the eve of his superannuation on 27.07.2012 evening at Delhi. The comrades who desire to participate both the programmes may book the return tickets accordingly.

4. Associate membership to AIPEU-GDS (NFPE)

The Federal Secretariat held on 21.5.2012 has accorded the status of associate membership to newly formed AIPEU GDS (NFPE). The General Secretary has also requested all the Divisional Secretaries/Circle Secretaries seeking their co-operation in formation of branches at all levels.

Since the fresh verification of membership in GDS cadre is offing and notification for that effect may be issued at any time. It is realiably learnt that the recognition to the office bearers has not been accorded to the AIPEDE union due to the vertical split in the All India Conference and there is every possibility of another Membership verification at any time. It is our prime need to strengthen the organisation which is associated with NFPE and declared to work under the guidance of P3 leadership right from Divisions to All India level.

All Divisional/Circle Secretaries are requested once again to extend full cooperation and unstinted support to the newly formed AIPEU GDS (NFPE).

With greetings,

Comradely yours,

(K. V. Sridharan)

General Secretary

Transfer u/r 38 of P&T Manual Vol. IV in Postmaster Grade-I

2012-05-29T18:44:00.000+05:30

Limited Departmental Competitive Examination for Postmaster Grade-I Eligibility of PA granted financial upgradation under MACP scheme

2012-05-29T18:42:00.000+05:30

2012-05-26T10:49:00.004+05:30

SIX YEARS INNINGS ! SURE ! NOT OUT !

Good-bye with Contentment

All of you are well aware that I am due for superannuation from the departmental service on 31.5.2012 and this is almost my parting General Secretary’s Desk. Perhaps I had the great chance of serving you in the capacity of General Secretary of this mighty organisation since 2006. I am recalling my affectionate association with all of you during this period and undoubtedly I am having the paramount pleasure that I did something to this movement and also to my fellow-men to the best of my ability. Gandhiji once said “ Satisfaction lies in the efforts; full effort is full victory” and as such I have not left any stone unturned in my efforts and exploited all the situations with full efforts to resolve the issues at the maximum despite the fact that I could not leave a clean slate to my successor. Of course! It is not possible to anyone. As Com Lenin rightly told that trade unions are schools for learning; A trade union is an incessant movement and problems will never end and will creep new issues at any time. I am leaving some benchmarks to my successor as well as some pending issues for his further follow up action.

P3, the best beneficiary on JCA calls

I recollect my presentations in the August AICs held in Pushkar & Jwalaji on the urgent need of taking special interest to mitigate the issues of Postal Group ‘C’ comrades and in particular to the shortage of staff and deadlocks in the promotions which were delaying a decade together. I have sincerely and seriously acted and settled many of the genuine demands of our Group ‘C’ during these six years. Whenever the Postal JCA notified strike calls, the best beneficiary among all was the P3 and many small issues remaining unsettled over decades were dealt with solutions. I wish to recollect your reminiscences to the following major advancements we have seen in our area.

Not exhaustive! Only very few

(i) The vacancies unfilled up in the LGO examinations (Residual vacancies) since 1999 were filled up. The total no. of such vacancies in PA cadre was approximately to the extent of 13000 which alone construed to the 15% of total sanctioned posts.

(ii) Mass scale recruitment of PAs by summoning all DPS Headquarters to Directorate was carried out in 2009, 2010 in the range of 8000 & 14000 Postal Assistants. The shortage of staff prevailed to the level of 40% were sorted out. The current vacancies are also notified for selection. Thus the long pending issue of shortage of staff in PA cadre has been sorted out despite the fact that there is no recruitment outside the Postal in Govt. Departments till now.

(iii) First time, all the examination process has been brought under OMR process with objective type questions. Resultantly all the Group ‘B’ Posts, earmarked for General line which were kept unfilled up over decades were filled up. All IP posts were filled up. Even there is surplus list in LGO exams this year in all circles which is due to this objective type pattern only. The number of chances for LGO candidates has been enhanced.

(iv) For filling up of all vacant IPO posts, surplus system was introduced. After four years it was discontinued as it affected the interest of candidates of own circle.

(v) P.A. Recruitment Rules have been revised. To avoid resignation of selected candidates, all the candidates possessing 60 % in Plus II are now entitled for selection like Bank & Railway recruitments.

(vi) The confirmation examination and its adverse effect if not passed within six chances has been scrapped. Many officials who did not pass the exam in six chances and stagnated in the last pay drawn are now benefiting.

(vii) Filling up of all vacant LSG, HSG II & HSG I posts on notional basis and grant of officiating pay. All HSG I posts now occupied by IP line officials are to be transferred to general line. Leave sanctioning powers to HSG I Postmasters. Filling up all vacant LSG APM Accounts posts as per the LSG Recruitment Rules 1976. Revision of LSG recruitment rules.

(viii) Applicability of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 in respect of those put on induction training prior to 1.1.2004. Refund of pension contribution to those recovered irregularly.

(ix) Stepping up of pay on promotion by comparing direct recruits. Extended the time limit for revision of option.

(x) Formation of Scrutiny committee for upgradation of ACR for grant of MACP promotions & various clarificatory orders on MACP (more than seven; and still three more pending).

(xi) Clear Instructions on fixing responsibilities under contributory negligence and no charge sheet without mentioning the violation of rules, upgradation of CR, no punishment for not performing OTA, irregular imposition of FR17A for the strike, withholding of pension, gratuity in case of minor case proceedings etc.

(xii) Revision of honorarium for calculation of RD Premature closure, Processing of PLI/RPLI claims, for engaging departmental exam, incentive for NREGIS work, Honorarium for Sixth CPC fixation and drawal of arrears, fixation of pension, Honorarium for fixation of TRCA, Revision of FSC, Honororium for invigilators, revision of split duty allowance, revision of SB Allowance, revision of FMC, enhancement of 25% allowances etc. The revised procedure in RPLI incentive at circle levels is the major achievement.

(xiii) Instructions on writing CRs.

(xiv) 25% incentive to Postal staff out of commission earned under business packages.

(xv) Stopped the move to close 9797 post offices and RMS offices.

(xvi) Formation of Cadre restructuring committee and the progress.

(xvii) Allowing physically handicapped officials to write IP examination.

(xviii) Settlement of various anomalies in post attached quarters, drawal of additional HRA, delegation of powers for dequarterisation and suspension of quarters and enhancing the financial powers of the divisional heads in securing accommodation for the post offices.

(xix) Stoppage of organizing meetings and melas on all the Sundays & holidays.

(xx) Problems of systems administrators and grant of conveyance and road mileage allowance to them.

The above are some of the noteworthy accomplishments but there are very many; Several long pending issues were elucidated and settled. We can proudly say that in almost all the issues, we placed in the Departmental council, we have resolved the maximum in favour of our comrades. The issues brought to our notice by the circles; sometimes even by the individuals were promptly attended.

As the Leader, Staff Side

As the leader of the Staff Side, JCM (DC), I contributed my best for the settlement of issues relating to other cadres (other than our P3) also. I had the satisfaction in my presentation during all the talks we had with the Department either in the Departmental Council or the Conciliation meetings held on the strike charter of demands and extended a lot to my fellow comrades. This is the great opportunity I have been provided due to my selection as the leader of the JCM staff side.

Trade union workshops

It is the first time in the history of P&T union, a Trade Union workshop was conducted in Thiruvanthapuram from 13.02.2011 to 15.02.2011. It was having the overwhelming response; followed by other unions. The workshop recently conducted at Puri from 04.02.2012 to 05.02.2012 is the landmark triumph of the CHQ in cultivating the cadres and leaderships on Trade Union history, Staff rulings, Disciplinary rules etc.

The materials compiled by me and distributed at the workshops and also in the two workshops conducted by NFPE at Munnar and Allahabad are the everlasting reference guides to our comrades. I had the honest satisfaction of generating a cream of leadership at all levels through the workshops and the participation of youth is most awesome. Many Circles followed the CHQ in steering such workshops at circle levels.

Experiences with Sixth CPC

It is my honour and pride to say that it is the first time in the P 3 movement, the draft Memorandum prepared by me within twenty days of my assumption as General Secretary for Sixth CPC was placed and discussed threadbare in the CWC held in Karimnagar. The collective wisdom was experimented. The memorandum submitted by the CHQ is the masterpiece of our work. I had the great opportunity to assist other General Secretaries also in preparing their memorandums. The experience I gained in submission of the memorandum, tendering oral evidences before Sixth CPC is ever rememberable.

Cultivating the cadres

(i) Out of my own experience that how the knowledge on rulings will help the trade unionists in handling the issues with the administration, the compilation in two volumes of rulings on Trade Union facilities, CCS (RSA) Rules 1993 & ED (RA) Rules 1995 were published and released on 25.08.2007 in the Allahabad CWC.

(ii) On the same day another book ‘Venture’, the Compilation of Selective important orders was launched. This is the first occasion of such activities by CHQ.

(iii) Hand Book 2010 was first time launched and printed 15000 copies. This was followed in 2011 & 2012 with 16500 copies & 13500 copies respectively. This is an historic record.

(iv) An updated Venture Edition II was related in the Federal council held in June 2010 and 3000 copies were printed.

(v) For the benefits of GDS, one book titled as GDS Crusader was released in the last AIC held in Alandi on Jan 2011. 3000 copies were printed.

(vi) Again for the benefits of GDS comrades, another book titled as ‘GDS Refresher’ was released in April 2012 to commemorate the formation of AIPEU GDS (NFPE). 3000 copies were printed.

I can proudly say that despite in the midst of the heavy brunt of the work in the CHQ, I endeavored and succeeded in releasing those books by foregoing several nights and burnt the midnight oil to educate the rank & file which I sensed a revolution of knowledge in the midst of our cadres after seeing their overwhelming response for those publications.

First Website

We can proudly say that we are the first among all C. G. Government employees unions/associations launched website for the union on 2007 January itself after our assumption in the CHQ and placed the memorandum which we submitted to Sixth CPC as the first post. So far we are having the viewers to the extent of 16 lakhs! So many items essential for the members are being exhibited including the address, Telephone No. & e-mail address of all divisional secretaries, Govt orders, manuals, publications, Bhartiya Post etc. Our branches are also motivated by CHQ in launching web sites for their own and at present our union is having seven Circle union websites and around 51 Divisional unions' websites. Thus we inspired all to exploit and fully utilize the benefits of the mechanization and I.T.

Bhartiya Post

We enriched and enhanced the superiority of Bhartiya Post among all the journals with the contents, quality and its presentation and also doubled its size as well as its subscribers. It comprises everything and as the Editor, I strained my best for its number one existence among all the union journals and also its prompt release. In order to penetrate its prominence in the Hindi speaking areas, minimum of four pages materials are being printed in Hindi with the caption of ‘Dak Jagirithi’.

Co-ordination

During this period, I had the best relationship with all sister unions as well as with other unions and in particular with Com Theyagarajan, Secretary General FNPO. I contributed a lot to the joint and effective functioning of all unions. The contribution I made for the revival & recognition of our Federation, thwarting the ill move of the Bhartiya union court case and thereafter the coordinated functioning with NFPE is the benchmark renowned for the effective joint functioning. I maintained a good relationship with the confederation leadership and contributed to its functioning also.

Bridged the gap between the equals

I can proudly say that my General Secretary Desks, Frequent interactions through mails, exhibiting all the developments then and there on the website and transparent functioning has bridged the gap between the leaders and cadres existed earlier. Even the ordinary member is seeking information directly from CHQ. The Motto which I adopted in my personal life and also practiced in public life that “ All are equal: I am one among the equals; Because I got the opportunity, I am General Secretary; that does not mean I am superior and more knowledgeable: There are many other intellectuals who did not get the chances; Otherwise they will shine better than me”.

The interaction, I introduced wherever I visited whether it is at circle level or divisional level has certainly enthusiase the comrades and more youngster are now embracing active participation in trade unions

More “I” s - Sorry Please

This is the first circular that I am using more “I” s because this is my last one and also the recollection of records of my activities before my departure and also the study materials for the future leadership to consider and set some of my actions as bench mark for the effective functioning of the leadership.

Too many Court cases – not diluted my will

This is also on the records that I shall be the only General Secretary who had faced 49 court cases right from Municipal Court to Supreme Court that too from my own circle. My elections as General Secretary was challenged and many more. Despite all the mental torture purported by some vested interests, I never tired or slept in focusing the demands of our comrades. No one can point our any lethargy in my action in taking up the cases. No paper received by CHQ was filed without any reply that too sent in time during this period.

I can proudly say that the recognition cancelled to our union due to the Court case filed in the Madras High Court by the Bhartiya Federation was thwarted within 20 days and restored recognition which alone paved way for the recognition of Federations in the Department of Posts. My timely action and contribution to the court case for dismissing the case filed by the Bhartiya federation is the milestone for which Com A.Veeramani, AGS also contributed a lot.

Sincerely strained but no results

I tried my best in focusing all the issues. However there are some issues which I could not get positive results like counting of services to RTP. The cadre review proposal submitted by us has not been finalized so far. Orders in respect of the many assurances decided during talks on strike charters have not been issued. Of course! One cannot have a clean slate!

Acknowledgement

I never desired, thought or expected to become the General Secretary. Of course! It was quite accidental at Jwalaji. Com. Balu, Ex-Circle Secretary, Tamilnadu was the instrumental in my elevation at that time. I am recording my sincere thanks to him. The wave length existing between me and our President Com. M. Krishnan is almost the same and we had a very perfect understanding and without his cooperation and guidance, I can't place this much records. My special thanks to Com. Balwinder Singh, Financial Secretary who is always in CHQ without minding time and working very hard assisted me not only in all my decisions but also even taking care of my ailing health on all occasions. Similarly I am placing on records my thanks to Com. Somenath Mukherjee, Ex-Deputy General Secretary Com. Com. R. Sivannarayana, Deputy General Secretary for their unstinted cooperation and affection during this period. The love and affection shown by my Office bearers and Circle secretaries are laudable which I enjoyed throughout these six years. My abundant thanks to all of them. Com C.C.Pillai and Com K. Ragavendran Ex Secretary Generals contributed a lot for my effective functioning and we had a perfect understanding during those days. I record my sincere thanks to them. Com. K. M. Ramesh, my advocate in Chennai rendered all legal assistance and vacated the stay and dismissed the BPEF case and all other Tamilnadu court cases. My special thanks to him.

My staff, My press & My caretaker

My staff, Com. Shiv Lal, Com Dhananjay and Naveen, despite my strict posture in office work, loved me very much and very affectionately. They learnt many things from me! Of Course, Our CHQ is the only union adopting the principle of model employer treating its staff as equals. I have received enormous cooperation from the Press and in particular from Sri Pradeep, Owner of Deep Printers in publishing Ventures, Handbooks, GDS Crusader GDS Refresher and also the Bhartiya Post to my taste. I remember and salute him at this juncture. I will be failing my duty if I did not mention Com Jaiprakash, Secretary, Lodhi Road who is my caretaker in the Sarojini Nagar quarters. The love and affection of Delhi divisional secretaries and comrades are ever rememberable.

Tamilnadu Comrades, the inspiration

As you know, I am retiring from the department service on 31^st May 2012, I am getting ready to leave. I recall my association with you with great pride and with greater happiness. I am taking leave with more happiness. A man born and brought up in a remote village of Tamilnadu and served this august movement with sincerity and devotion right from 1974 ie. 38 years of unstinted trade union services; experienced with joys and tribulations in the public service is being relieved from the service while holding the highest echelon as General Secretary and Leader Staff Side in the midsts of love and affections of all my comrades throughout the nation which itself is the glory I am blessed. I am placing on records my special thanks to my Tamilnadu Comrades who were the object for my elevation and they were with me in the days of many tribulations and shared my burdens. My Narasimhulu who is associated with me during these 37 years shared all my sorrows during the days of tribulation and remained with me. My special thanks to my friend who is the example of the real friendship.

Loveable affection all along

I am especially grateful to you for your cooperation and good will all through my career as General Secretary of this union. The affectionate welcome and reception I enjoyed right from divisions to circles throughout these years are the sweetest memories I am taking along with me at this time. I am indeed proud of our association and thank you and also to your office bearers and your members having made me to do service sincerely since six years.

Keep an inch space in your heart for constant repair

A man is a bundle of relations; a knot of roots whose flower and fruits are very dear and sweet. A man should always keep his relations in constant repairs. Friendship is like love is destroyed by long absence and increased by short intermissions. We have seen many great leaders who have been forgotten due to out of sight. My only request before all of you “ Kindly allot an inch space in your heart and keep me in constant repair which I feel the most pleased and privilege for the service I rendered to this august movement.

I look forward to staying in touch with you always and my service is also always available.

GOOD BYE COMRADES AND RED SALUTE TO ALL OF YOU

Comradely Yours,

(K. V. Sridharan)

General Secretary

Department want to share our views/comments on the Citizens Charter. So please send your views/comments to CHQ within three days

2012-05-26T10:46:00.000+05:30

Click here to view Citizen Charter of Department of Posts

Meeting of Cadre Restructuring Committee will be held on 29.05.2012. Our General Secretary, Com. K. V. Sridharan is attending

2012-05-26T10:40:00.000+05:30

Click here to view Order No. 1/4/2010-SR Dt. 21.05.2012

Children Education Allowance/Hostel Subsidy-Clarification

2012-05-26T10:36:00.002+05:30

Click here to view Order No. 12011/07/2011-Estt (AL) Dt. 23.05.2012

AC Charges of room/suit of Holiday Homes/Touring Officer's Hostels/Guest Houses and reduction in time for submission of application

2012-05-26T10:35:00.000+05:30

Click here to view order No. D-11028/23/82/Regions (Vol.II)

LTC to Port Blair to stay at new holiday home

2012-05-25T18:07:00.003+05:30

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

GPF INTEREST INCREASED T0 8.8 Percent

2012-05-25T18:01:00.004+05:30

PUBLISHED IN PART I SECTION OF GAZETTE OF INDIA)

F.No.5(1)-B(PD)/2012

Government of India

Ministry of Finance

(Department of Economic affairs)

New Delhi, the 22nd May, 2012

RESOLUTION

It is announced for general information that during the year 2012-2013, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 8.8% (Eight point eight per cent) per annum. This rates will be in force during the financial year beginning on 1.4.2012.

The funds concerned are :-

1. The General Provident Fund (Central Services).

2. The Contributory Provident Fund (India).
3. The All India Services Provident Fund.

4. The State Railway Provident Fund.

5. The General Provident Fund (Defence Services).

6. The Indian Ordnance Department Provident Fund.

7. The Indian Ordnance Factories Workmen’s Provident Fund.

8. The Indian Naval Dockyard Workmen’s Provident Fund.

9. The Defence Services Officers Provident Fund.

10. The Armed Forces Personnel Provident Fund.

2. Ordered that the Resolution be published in Gazette of India.

sd/-

(Brajendra Navnit)

Deputy Secretary (Budget)

NFPE CIRCULAR

2012-05-25T17:58:00.000+05:30

No. PF-1(e)/03/2012 Dated: 22^nd May 2012

CIRCULAR

All General Secretaries/NFPE Office Bearers.

All Circle /Divisional / Branch Secretaries of NFPE Unions.

Dear Comrades,
Federal Secretariat meeting was held at NFPE Office on 21^st May, 2012, has taken the following decision. Com. S.P. Mukharjee Vice President NFPE presided the meeting

PARLIAMENT MARCH

Federal Secretariat endorsed the decision of Confederation National Executive to organize Parliament March on 26^th July, 2012 and one day token strike thereafter. It is decided to make the Parliament March a historic success by rallying Ten Thousand participants from NFPE and its affiliated union’s. Campaign programme shall also be implemented in all circles as per the confederation circular. Each affiliate has decided to ensure participation of delegates as shown below:

All India Postal Employees Union Group ‘C - 2000

AIPE Union Postmen, MTS & Gr. D - 2000

AIRMS & MMS EU Group ‘C’ - 1000

ARMS &MMS EU Mail Guard/MTS & Gr. ‘C’ - 500

All India Postal Accounts Emp. Association - 100

All India Postal Admn Offices E.U. Gr. “C’&’D- 100

All India Postal Civil Wing Emp. Union. - 100

All India Postal SBCO Emp. Union. - 100

All India Casual, Part Time,

Contingent Emp. Fed - 100

AI Postal Employees Union GDS (NFPE) - 3000

Each General Secretary should issue separate circulars fixing quota for each Circle. More participants should come from Delhi and surrounding states i.e. U.P., Haryana, Himachal, Punjab, Rajasthan, MP.& Uttarakhand. Up and Down tickets should be booked immediately.

Accommodation facility will be arranged by the respective All India Unions.

Participants should rally behind the banner of each All India Union.

Venue of the Rally commencing point will be intimated later. Rally will conclude at Jantar Mantar. All Participants should reach before 10.30 A.M

NFPE All India Convention:

Federal Secretariat decided to organize an All India Convention on 26.07.2012 at New Delhi. Convention will start at 2.30 P.M. Venue & programme will be intimated later. Those delegates participating in the Parliament March should also attend the All India Convention.

Associate Membership to AIPEU GDS (NFPE)

Federal Secretariat has decided to grant associate membership to the newly formed AIPEU GDS (NFPE). All Circle/Divisional unions of NFPE are requested to extend full Co-operation and support to AIPEU GDS (NFPE).

Review of JCA Agitation:

The Federal Secretariat after detailed review of the progress made in the charter of demands has come to the conclusion that progress made so far is satisfactory. Federal Secretariat further decided to take necessary follow up action for getting orders on the remaining items also in a time bound manner.

NFPE Regional Study Camp:

As decided earlier All India Camps will be organized on Regional Basis as shown below:

Circles

Region-1 J&K, Punjab, H.P. Haryana,

Delhi, UP, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan

Venue Kurukshetra (Haryana)

Region-2 Bihar, Jharkhand,Orissa,W. Bengal

N.E. & Assam

Venue Jamshedpur(Jharkhand)

Region-3 M.P., Chhattisgarh, Gujrat, Maharashtra

Venue Sagar(M.P.)

Region-4 Karnataka, Kerala,Andhra, Tamil Nadu

Venue Tamil Nadu Circle (Exact venue will be intimated later)

Further details will follow.

Financial Position of NFPE

Due to heavy expenditure incurred on last Parliament March etc financial position of NFPE has become almost Nil. All Circle/Divisional/Branch Secretaries are requested to remit maximum quota and donation to NFPE in the following address:

Treasurer NFPE

1^st Floor North Avenue

Post Office Building,

New Delhi -110001

All General Secretaries and Circle Secretaries are requested to issue Circulars and send up to Division and Branch level.

With revolutionary greetings.

Yours Comradely,

Sd/-

{M. Krishnan}

Secretary General

Health Insurance Scheme for the Central Government Employees waits for Approval of Planning Commission

2012-05-22T17:03:00.002+05:30

New Delhi, May 18, 2012(PIB): There is a proposal for introduction of a health insurance scheme for the central government employees and pensioners on pan-India basis, with special focus on pensioners living in non-CGHS areas.

The proposal is to make this scheme voluntary cum contributory for serving employees & pensioners.

However, it is proposed to be made compulsory for the new entrants in Government service.

The salient features of the proposed Health Insurance Scheme are as under;

Optional for serving Central Government employees and pensioners including future pensioners,
Compulsory for new recruits,
Covers all the members of family as per CGHS norms,
Sum insured – Rs. 5 lakh per year on a family floater basis,
Corporate buffer of Rs 25 Crore to take care of cases exceeding Rs. 5 lakh,
All pre existing diseases covered from the day one,
Pre and post hospitalisation benefits available,
Domiciliary Hospitalisation benefit,
Maternity benefit upto two living children,
OPD not covered however OPD consultations will be free,
Payment of FMA for meeting OPD needs,
Cashless treatment facility,
Govt. to subsidise significantly the payment of premium,
Employees / pensioners to contribute 20 to 30 percent of the premium,
Identification of beneficiaries through a Smart Card.

The proposed scheme will be an alternative to the CGHS and it will provide an option to the serving employees and pensioners to choose a scheme as per his/her convenience.

The Scheme will have special focus on the pensioners living in non-CGHS areas who are getting Fixed Medical Allowance at the rate of Rs.300/- only per month to take care of their medical needs and have been demanding extension of CGHS or CS (MA) Rules to cover their OPD and Inpatient medical needs which is not feasible due to resource constraints.

The Health Insurance Scheme seems to be a viable alternative. It will have additional implications, due to coverage of pensioners living in non-CGHS areas and not covered under any Government Scheme.

The proposal for inclusion of the Health Insurance Scheme for the Central Government employees and pensioners in the 12th Plan has been moved by the Ministry for consideration of the Steering Committee on Health in the Planning Commission.

On receipt of approval of Planning Commission, the proposal would be placed before the Expenditure Finance Committee and finally before the Cabinet for approval of the scheme. No strict time frame can be given in this regard.

This information was given by the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in reply to a Starred question in Lok Sabha on Friday, i.e. May 18, 2012.

DISCUSSION WITH SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF POSTS – GIST

2012-05-22T16:56:00.004+05:30

Secretary, Department of Posts, Mrs. Manjula Prashar held discussions with the leaders of NFPE and FNPO on 21.05.2012. Ms. Yasodhara Menon, Member (Personnel), Sri. Salim Haque, DDG (P), Sri. V. P. Singh, DDG (Estt) and Sri. Subhash Chander, Director (SR) were also present. The staff side was represented by Com. M. Krishnan, Secretary General NFPE, Sri. T. N. Rahate, President, FNPO, Com. K. V. Sridharan, General Secretary, P3 & Leader, Staff Side Departmental Council JCM, Com. Giriraj Singh, General Secretary, R3 & Secretary, Staff Side, Com. Iswar Singh Dabas, General Secretary, P4, Com. Pranab Bhattacharjee, General Secretary, Admin. Union, Com. T. Satyanarayana, General Secretary, AIPAEA, Sri. H. N. Siddiqui, General Secretary, R4 (FNPO). Item wise discussion was held and following decisions arrived at.

1. Separate orders communicating the decision that no mail office will be closed for next three years and no dislocations of staff to places outside headquarters.

Instructions issued vide letter no. 28-8/2011-D dated 14.05.2012 (copy already given). Staff side pointed out that the meeting with Member (Operations) to discuss the issues arising out of implementation of L1, L2 has not been taken place, inspite of the clear orders given by Secretary, Posts. It is assured that the meeting with Member (O) will be arranged on 29.05.2012 after noon.

2. Orders communicating the decision about no closure/merger of post offices if no simultaneous relocation is possible.

Instructions issued vide letter No. 40-6/2011-Plg (Pt)f dated 21.02.2012. Copy of the orders will be supplied to the staff side.

3. Revision of wages to Casual labourers and absorption

At present, the draft memo placed to the Postal service Board is at the approval stage. It may require two more weeks after outcome of the decision of the Postal Services Board on the issues of revision of wages and absorption.

4. Revised recruitment Rules for Group D and Postmen as agreed upon and syllabus for Group D examination.

Clearance from DOP&T has already been received. Files bearing NOs 37 - 33 / 2009 - SPB - I concerned with the subject matter is already under submission to Ministry of Law for vetting the draft for amendment in Recruitment Rules of Postmen/MTS. On Receipt of the same from M.O Law, the RRs will be sent to Government press for necessary Gazette notification. Action for filling up the vacancies of Postmen and MTS for the year 2011 and 2012 will be taken after that.

5. Revision of cash handling norms to GDS and ensuring no reduction of TRCA under any circumstances and enhancing the Bonus ceiling to 3500/- and revise the cash allowance to BPM-at the rate of Rs. 50/- per trip instead of a month.

Protection of allowance (TRCA) and cash handling - order will be issued shortly as assured by the Minister of States, Communications. Regarding the enhancing of Bonus ceiling to Rs. 3500/- a proposal has been submitted to Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure for approval on 22.03.2011.

Regarding the issue of cash allowance to GDS for remittance of cash, the case is under process.

6. Orders revising the instructions liberalizing the powers to the Divisional heads instead of Circle heads in case of tenure posting to C and B class offices.

Orders under issue.

7. Reiteration of the earlier instructions on the grant of special pay to unqualified Accountants & counting of Special allowance for pay fixation without filing SLP against Bangalore High Court Judgement.

Regarding unqualified Accountants special allowance orders are under issue. Regarding counting of special allowance for pay fixation CPMG Karnataka Circle has been asked to file SLP, in the Apex Court on the advise of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure.

8. Circulation of clarification given to Punjab Circle to the remaining circles also in respect of protection of pay of defunct PO & RMS Accountants.

Integrated Finance wing has sought some further inputs on the issue and action is being taken thereon.

9. Orders on forcible allotment of staff quarters to the town SOs Sub Postmasters as post attached quarters.

Instructions issued vide memo no. 18-9/2010-Bldg dtd. 10.05.2012.

10. Non supply of balance statement of NPS to the officials as on 31.03.2011

The statement of transactions (SOTs) of the subscribers of Central Govt. for the period 1.4.10 to 30.06.2011 have already been dispatched to the subscribers in the format approved by PFRDA by NSDL Mumbai vide letter dated 19.9.11. All the Directors of Accounts (Postal) have been informed about the dispatch of SOT vide letter No. 6-5/PA Book-I/NPS Procedure/2011-12/1960-89 dated 018.11.11.

The staff side reported that the required balance statement is still not circulated to the concerned. It is assured that this aspect will be examined and further action will be taken.

11. Enhancement of Financial powers of LSG, HSG II and HSG-I

This is under examination.

12. Enhancing the honorarium for invigilators engaged in departmental examinations.

Orders issued vide No. A.34020/17/2008-De dated 26.04.2012.

13. Allowing physically handicapped officials for appearing IPO Examinations.

Under active consideration in consultation with Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

14. Orders on drawal of cash handling allowance to Treasurers, Accountants irrespective of their position in the MACP.

A reference has been made to the DOPT in this regard. The argument of the staff side that it should be decided in the department itself will be considered and decided shortly.

15. Finalisation of the cadre Review proposals:

It is assured that the proposals of the committee will be finalised before 30.06.2012. The next sitting of the committee will be held on 29.05.2012 forenoon.

16. Payment of incentive instead of honorarium for attending the PLI/RPLI work at Divisional offices after decentralization.

Case has already been processed and is in pipeline.

17. Orders for repatriation of officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to CO/RO to their home divisions

All officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to RO/CO from Divisional have been asked to be repatriated vide letter No. 30-1/2010/LI dated 27.01.2012.

18. Allowing Postmaster cadre officials to appear for IPO/PSS Group B examination.

The proposal has been examined and as observed, it does not fall in line with the existing instructions as these are two different streams and the postmaster cadre Recruitment Rules clearly says that these officials will not have any claim in the promotional channel of General line officials. The staff side insisted that postmaster cadre officials should not be deprived of the promotional chances of their counterpart in the general line against IPO/PSS Group B posts. Further they demanded that 100% of Senior Postmasters Posts should be reserved for the Postmasters cadre alone. It was agreed to have a relook into the entire issue.

19. Orders permitting postmaster cadre officials to officiate in HSG-I vacancies.

The matter has been examined. Not found feasible as per Recruitment Rules. On insistence of the staff side it is agreed to have a relook in to the matter.

20. DO letter from Member (P) to all Circles heads to fill up all posts of Sorting Postmen, Mail overseers, cash overseer and Head Postmen

Orders issued vide No. 37-4/2012-SPB-I dated 19.04.2012

21. Allowing MTS to decline promotion to postmen cadre under seniority quota without loosing MACP promotion.

Orders will be issued shortly.

22. Reiteration of the instructions for rotational transfer for SBCO staff by notifying clusture of divisions.

Orders issued vide No. 141-91/2012-SPB-II dated 02.04.2012

23. Issue instructions to all for ensuring filling up of all sanctioned LR Posts.

Orders will be issued shortly.

24. Prompt grant of child care leave – Issue instructions

Instructions reiterated vide letter No. 51-3/2011-SPB-II dated 10.05.2012.

25. Clarifications to be issued on MACP as agreed upon on the following.

(i) MACP will not be deferred on the ground of contemplated disciplinary/Vigilence proceedings.

Orders under issue.

(ii) Instructions on review of ACRs/APArs by Scrutiny committee.

Orders issued to complete the process before 30.06.2012, if not already done vide memo No. 4-7/(MACP)/2009-PCC (Part) Dt. 15.05.2012.

(iii) Recovery orders by DA(P) in the matter of pay fixation of MACP in case of MTS.

This will be sorted out early.

(iv) Cases relating to declining promotion prior to the issue of MACP orders (Prior to 2009)

Orders under issue.

26. Issuing clear instructions to all Chief PMGs that in the city areas where RO/Cos are situated decentralization of RPLI/PLI should not be done to city postal divisions, instead the work will be done by RO/CO staff as done before.

Agreed to issue detailed instructions to all Chief PMGs/PMGs in additional to the instructions already issued on 27.01.2012.

27. Issue orders on the terms finalized by the Postmen Committee and also follow up action on the certain items to be referred to work study unit.

The recommendations of the committee are under process. Orders will be issued on all the agreed items.

28. Cadre restructuring and settlement of Group – D and sorter issue relating to Postal Accounts.

Cadre restructuring proposal sent to Integrated Finance wing for their concurrence is at present with Postal Estt Branch. It is assured to expedite case.

Group D & Sorter anomaly: The information has been called for from all circle postal accounts offices. On receipt of the same the case will be examined further.

29. Follow up action on Civil Wing issues.

The R/Rules are presently pending with M/o Law & Justice. Will be notified immediately after it is cleared and further action will be taken.

30 Examination of CRC & EPF norms

Logistics Posts: Committee formed to work out the handling norms of Logistics Post has submitted its report. In view of observation of IFA(BD), DDG(Estt) has been addressed to provide extant provision for formulation of handling norms for new/existing service so that recommendations of committee can be further examined. Reply is awaited from DDG(Estt).

EPP: a Committee has been formed to work out the handling norms for EPP. The Committee has carried out preliminary exercise in its first meeting. Recommendations of the meeting are awaited.

The staff side raised the following issues also and position is explained as under:

(i) PA/SA Recruitment for 2011 and 2012- Orders issued. Time line will be fixed for calling for applications, examination etc.

(ii) Postmen, MTS posts filling – orders will be issued alter notifying the revised recruitment rules removing 25% outside recruitment in Postmen cadre and related changes in MTS RRS.

(iii) System administrators TA case – will be reexamined, Staff side may submit a detailed note.

(iv) HSG-I Recruitment Rules – Pursuing vigorously with DOPT, UPSC etc. It is in the final stage.

(v) Station tenure orders of Group – C employees – Clarificatory orders are under issue.

(vi) Revision of OTA rates – case already taken up with Finance Ministry Staff Side is requested to submit fresh proposals.

(vii) JCM standing committee minutes – Copy of Action Taken report supplied to staff side.

Subjects will be called for the next periodical meeting.

Com. Nani Banerjee – Ex-Deputy General Secretary is no more

2012-05-21T14:46:00.002+05:30

Com. Nani Banerjee the vetern leader of P3 and NFPTE movement has lost his breath today morning. Com. Nani Banerjee was Treasurer CHQ from 05.05.1968 to 16.03.1978 thereafter he was Deputy General Secretary till 20.04.1997. His services to the CHQ is ever rememberable.

We pay our respectful homage to departed leader & dip our banner in memory of him. We convey our deepest condolences to bereaved family members and comrades of West Bengal Circle.

MACP - SCRUTINY COMMITTEE

2012-05-21T14:35:00.002+05:30

Hunger fast programme in front of Dak Bhawan & CPMG offices deferred

2012-05-19T16:11:00.007+05:30

Secretary Department of Posts, informed that discussion with Secretary Generals and General Secretaries NFPE/FNPO will be held at 11AM on 21.05.2012 at Dak Bhawan to take concrete decision on remaining items of the Charter of Demands. More orders issued after the announcement of Hunger Fast programme. Remaining items will be clinched in the 21^st meeting. In view of the above, THE CENTRAL JCA UNANIMOUSLY DECIDED TO DEFER THE HUNGER FAST PROGRAMME IN FRONT OF DAK BHAWAN AND CPMG OFFICES

(K. V. Sridharan)

General Secretary

FLASH NEWS

2012-05-18T10:40:00.002+05:30

Cadre Restructuring meeting is purposed to be held in Directorate on 22.05.2012 at 12:00 AM

2012-05-18T10:39:00.000+05:30

JCA DECIDES TO GO AHEAD WITH THE HUNGER FAST PROGRAMME ON 21.05.2012. NO CHANGE IN PROGRAMME. ACTION TAKEN REPORT IS NOT SATISFACTORY.COM.M. KRISHNAN SECRETARY GENERAL, NFPE, SHRI T.N. RAHATE PRESIDENT FNPO AND OTHER GENERAL SECRETARIES WILL PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAMME. M.KRISHNAN S/G NFPE AND D THEAGARAJAN S/G FNPO.

THE ACTION TAKEN REPORT IS PLACED BELOW:

Government of India

Ministry of Communications & IT

Department of Posts

(SR Section)

Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg,

New Delhi-110001.

No. 08/15/2011-SR Dated the 15th May,2012

Secretary General,

National Federation of Postal Employees,

Ist Floor, Post Office Building,

North Avenue, New Delhi -1.

Secretary General,

Federation of National Postal Organizations,

T-24, Atul Grove Road, New Delhi -1.

Subject: - Undue delay in settlement of agreed items of the strike charter of demands discussed in the meetings dated 10.01.2012 and 12.01.2012 taken by Secretary(P) with Postal Joint Council of Action.

Sir,

I am directed to refer to the Department’s letter of even No. dated 02.05.2012 on the above mentioned subject.

2. An action taken report ad seriatim on the issues referred to by the staff side, is as under:

1. Separate orders communicating the decision that no mail office will be closed for next three years and no dislocation of staff to places outside headquarters.

Instructions issued vide letter no. 28-8/2011-D dated 14.05.2012, a copy of which is enclosed.

2. Orders communicating the decisions about no closure/merger of post offices if no simultaneous relocation is possible.

Instructions issued vide letter No.40-6/2011-Plg(Pt) dated 21.2.12

3. Revision of wages of casual labourers & absorption.

The said Para is confined to the revision of wages of casual labourers.

The issue involves various policy decisions & as at present, draft memo for the Postal Services Board is at the approval stage. Further action would be taken after outcome of the decision of the PSB on the issues of revision of wages and absorption.

4. Revised recruitment rules for group-D & postman as agreed and syllabus for group-D examination (25% from GDS) & Postmen/Mailguard.

Files bearing Nos.37-33/2009-SPB-I and 44-14/2009-SPB-I concerned with the subject matter is already under submission to M/o Law for vetting the draft for amendment in RRs of Postman/MTS. On receipt of the same from M/o Law, the RRs will be sent to Govt. Press for necessary Gazette Notification.

5. Revision of cash handling norms to GDS & ensuring no reduction of TRCA under any circumstances and enhancing the Bonus ceiling to 3500/- & revise the cash allowance to BPM at the rate of Rs. 50/- per trip instead of month.

A Committee was constituted to look into the revision of cash handling norms & reduction of TRCA. The Committee has submitted its report, which is under consideration.

Regarding enhancing the bonus ceiling to Rs. 3500, a proposal has been submitted to Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure for approval on 02.03.2012.

So far as the issue of revision of cash allowance is concerned, the same is not part of the minutes. However, the issue will be examined.

6. Orders revising the instructions liberalizing the powers to the divisional heads instead of circle heads in case of tenure posting to C and B class offices.

Under issue.

7. Reiteration of earlier instructions on the grant of special pay to unqualified Accountants & Counting of Special Allowance for pay fixation without filing SLP against Bangalore High Court Judgement.

CPMG Karnataka Circle has been asked to file SLP in the Apex Court on the advice of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure.

8. Circulation of clarification given to Punjab Circle to the remaining circles also in respect of protection of pay of defunct PO & RMS Accountants.

Integrated Finance Wing has sought some further inputs on the issue & action is being taken thereon.

9. Orders on forcible allotment of staff quarters to the town SOs SPMs as post attached quarters.

Instructions issued vide letter no. 18-9/2010-Bldg. dated 10.5.2012.

10. Non supply of balance statement of NPS to the official as on 31.3.2011.

The statement of transaction (SOTs) of the subscribers of Central Govt. for the period 1.4.10 to 30.6.11 have already been dispatched to the subscribers in the format approved by PFRDA by NSDL Mumbai vide letter dated 19.9.11. All the Directors of Accounts (Postal) have been informed about the dispatch of SOT vide letter No.6-5/PA Book-I/NPS Procedure/2011-12/1960-89 dated 18.11.11

11. Enhancement of financial powers to LSG, HSG II & HSG I.

This is under examination.

12. Enhancing the honorarium for invigilators engaged in departmental examinations.

The issue of revision of rates of honorarium for Paper Setter, Evaluator etc. for Departmental Examinations has been examined and rates have been revised vide letter No.A.34020/17/2008-DE dated 26.4.2012.

13. Allowing the physically handicapped candidates for appearing IPO examinations.

Under active consideration in consultation with the M/o Social Justice & Empowerment.

14. Orders on drawal of Cash handling allowance to Treasurers, Accountants irrespective of their position in MACP.

A reference has been made to the DOPT in this regard.

15. Finalization of cadre review proposals before 31.03.2012.

The matter is under active consideration and further discussion with the staff side may be held shortly.

16. Payment of incentive instead of honorarium for attending the PLI/RPLI work at divisional offices after decentralization.

All officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to RO/CO from Divisions have been asked to be repatriated vide letter No. 30-1/2010-LI dated 27.1.12

Further, in case of incentive, case has already been processed and is in pipeline.

17. Orders for repatriation of officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to CO/RO to their home divisions.

Same as against sr. no. 16 above.

18. Allowing the Postmaster’s cadre officials to appear for IPO/PSS Group-B examination.

The proposal has been examined and as observed, it does not fall in line with the existing instructions, as these are two different streams.

19. Orders permitting the Postmaster cadre officials to officiate in HSG-I vacancies.

The matter has been examined. Not found feasible, as per R/Rules.

20. DO letter from Member(P) to all circle heads to fill up all posts of Sorting Postmen, Mail Overseer, Cash Overseer & Head Postmen.

Orders issued vide No.37-4/2012-SPB I dated 19.04.2012.

21. Allowing MTS to decline promotion to postmen cadre under seniority quota without losing MACP promotion.

Will follow shortly.

22. Reiteration of instruction for rotational transfer for SBCO staff by notifying cluster of divisions

Issued vide No.141-91/2012-SPBII dated 2.4.12.

23. Issue instructions to all for ensuring filling up of all sanctioned LR posts.

Will follow shortly.

24. Prompt grant of child care leave – issue of instructions.

Instructions reiterated vide letter No.51-3/2011-SPBII dated 10.5.12.

25. Clarifications to be issued on MACP as agreed upon on the following:

(i) MACP will not be deferred on the ground of contemplated disciplinary/vigilance proceedings

(ii) Instructions on review of ACRs/APARs by scrutiny committees

(iii) Recovery orders by DA(P) in the matter of pay fixation on MACP in case of MTS.

(iv) Cases relating to declining promotion prior to issue of MACP order (prior to 2009).

The issue is presently under examination.

26. Issuing clear instructions to all CPMsG that in the city areas where RO/COs are situated decentralization of RPLI/PLI should not be done to city Postal Divisions, instead the work will be done by RO/CO staff as done before.

Permission to Circle/Regional office to accept, process and service the policies relating to their headquarter cities where they were located, issued vide letter no. 30-1/2010-LI dated 27.01.2012.

27. Issuing orders on the items finalized by the Postmen committee and also follow up action on certain items to be referred to work study unit.

Report of the Committee has been received. The recommendations are under process.

28. Cadre-restructuring and settlement of Group-D and Sorter anomaly issues relating to Postal Accounts.

Cadre-restructuring: the proposal sent to Integrated Finance Wing for their concurrence is at present lying with Postal Estt. Branch.Group-D & Sorter anomaly: the information has been called for from all Circle Postal Accounts Offices. On receipt of the same the case will be examined further.

29. Follow up action on civil wing employees’ issues.

The R/Rules are presently pending with M/o Law & Justice. Will be notified immediately after it is cleared and further action will be taken.

30. Examination of CRC & EPP norms.

EPP: a Committee has been formed to work out the handling norms for EPP. The Committee has carried out preliminary exercise in its first meeting. Recommendations of the meeting are awaited.

3. In view of the position explained above, you are requested to withdraw your notice of one day hunger fast for 21.05.2012 and cooperate with the Department in resolving the issues.

Yours faithfully,

Sd/

(Subhash Chander)

Director (SR & Legal)

An – Interesting CAT Decision

2012-05-17T12:43:00.000+05:30

Abnormal delay in issuing a charge-sheet to an employee for his omissions and commissions leads to quashing of charge-sheet and also return of recovered money, if any amount is recovered from the charge-sheeted employee

Facts: While the Applicant was working as Accountant with effect from 21.5.1996 and BCR with effect from 1.7.2007, he was issued with a charge-memo under rule 16 of CCS (CCA) Rules vide Memo, dated 11.12.2008 for a matter which related to October, 1997, i.e. more than 11 years old. A recovery of Rs1,94,791 was to be recovered as per the order of SPOs, Sitapur, dated 27.03.2009. His appeals were rejected. Hence he filed this OA for setting aside his punishment.

The Applicant, Accountant-II, states that no undertaking was taken from him in regard to recovery of amount if any amount is paid by him incorrectly and that B. K. Tripathi, Accountant-I is fully responsible for the lapse and an amount of Rs.24,442 only is to be recovered from him. Further, the punishment order is non-speaking and hence liable to be quashed.

The Respondents sustain their orders based on various instructions of the Ministry of Finance and Chief Postmaster-General of U. P. Circle, Lucknow. They further state that an enquiry was conducted in the misappropriation of money and four persons including the Applicant was found responsible. Out of four, one had retired and another died. Hence no action was taken against them The Applicant and B. K. Tripathi, another employee were found guilty and an amount of Rs. 194791 and Rs. 24,442 respectively are to be recovered from them.

The Applicant placed reliance on the case of P. V. Mahadevan v. M. D. Tamilnadu Housing Board (2005 AIR SCWs 690), wherein the charge memo was quashed due to inordinate delay. In the case of State of M. P. v. Bani Singh, reported in AIR similar view of delay led to quashing of the charge-sheet. In the case of State of A. P. v. N. Radhakrishnan (1998 (4) SCC 154), it was held that in all situations in respect of delay in conclusion of departmental enquiry may vitiate the proceedings. Following these judgments, the tribunal passed similar orders in O. A. No. 427 of 2006. Jhabbar Yadav v. Union of India and others decided on 16.10.2008.

The Tribunal considering the delay in this case of 11 years which pertained to a case 11 years back examined the issue of charge-sheet and punishment thereon. The two employees now punished reportedly committed the mismanagement of money and on the pretext of having given and underataking for recovery, if found guilty is not sustainable. In that connections. It was held:

Held: “In view of aforesaid discussion, we come to the conclusion that there was an inordinate delay of about 11 years in issuing the charge-sheet for initiating disciplinary proceedings for which there is no proper explanation from the side of the Respondents. Therefore, having regard to the aforesaid preposition of law laid down by Hon. Apex Court (Supra) in the above cases, the disciplinary proceedings in question, deserved to be quashed, including order of recovery against Applicant initiated through charge-sheet, dated 11-12-2008 along with recovery Order, dated 27.03.2009. for the same reasons, the Appellate Order, dated 29.6.2009 is also liable to be quashed and accordingly it is so ordered. It is further directed that the amount already recovered, if any from the pay of the Applicant, shall also be refunded.”

The OA is allowed accordingly to the above extent.

(Chandrika Prasad v. Secretary, Department of Posts, Dak Bhawan, New Delhi and other 5/2012, Swamynews 61 (Lucknow) date of judgment 25.8.2011)

OA No. 297 of 2009

Courtesy: Swamy News, May 2012

11th Postal Service Staff Welfare Board Meeting

2012-05-16T20:10:00.000+05:30

Click here to view details

Payment of Interest on delayed payment of Gratuity and recovery of interest so paid from the officers responsible for such delay-DOPPW orders

2012-05-16T19:54:00.001+05:30

Dear comrades,

Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare vide it Memo No. 38/64/98-P&PW(F) dated 01/05/2012 clarified once again that according to "Rule 68 of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 Interest will be paid to the pensioner on delayed payment of gratuity and the amount of interest so paid will be recovered from the officers responsible for such delay.Wherever dealys anticipated, Provisional pension should be sanctioned immediately. Any delay in processing of pension resulting in pension not being authorised on the last working day of retirement of the Govt. servant, should be reported by the Head of office to the next higher authority who would watch the settlement of delayed cases. In respect of delayed payment of gratuity wherever it results in payment of penal interest at the rate applicable to GPF deposits under Rule-68 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, secretary of the administrative Ministry or Department would initiate action to fix responsiblity at all levels to recover the amount from the concerned dealing official, supervisor and Head of Office in proportion to their salary by following the prescribed procedure for the purpose and should be strictly enforced".

Please click here to get the order copy

2012-05-16T19:52:00.002+05:30

CHILD CARE LEAVE (CCL) IN RESPECT OF CENTRAL GOVT. EMPLOYEES.

D.G. Posts No. 51-3/2011-SPB-II dated 10^th May, 2012.(Addressed to All the Heads of Circles)

I am directed to refer to this office letter of even number dated 15.6.2011 on the subject mentioned above and to say that Unions, in the meeting with Secretary (Posts) on 10.1.2012 and 12.1.2012, pointed out that the instructions issued vide ibid letter are not being followed strictly.

It is, therefore, again requested to please ensure that the cases of grant of Child Care Leave are liberally dealt with as per the instructions of Government of India as mentioned in the letter referred to above.

Sd/-

(Raj Kumar)

Director (Staff)

ALLOTMENT OF STAFF QUARTERS TO PMS/SPS-REGARDING.

D.G. Posts No. 18-9/2010-Bldg. dated 10.05.2012. (Addressed to All the Heads of Postal Circles)

I am directed to refer to the department’s letter of even no. dated 28.03.2011, enclosing herewith instructions issued vide letter no. 7-6/99-Bldg. dated 13/14.12.2001. The part (C) of the instructions pertains to ‘allotment of post attached/rent free residential accommodation’.

2. It has been brought to the notice of the Department that in some circles, there has been resentment among the PMs/SPMs on being forced to accept quarters that are not in the premises of post offices, as post attached quarters. The matter has been under consideration in the Department for some time.

3. It is hereby clarified that the quarters, which are within the premises/building of the post offices, need only be declared as post attached quarters; which the PMs/SPMs are bound to occupy. However, in other cases, i.e. quarters which are not in the premises/building of the post office, it may be left to the discretion of the concerned Pos/SPMs whether to accept or not accept such quarters.

4. This may kindly be brought to the notice of all concerned for information, guidance and necessary action.

5. This issues with the approval of Member (Planning).

Sd/-

(Subhash Chander)

Director(SR, Legal & Estates)

WELL START

2012-05-16T19:21:00.001+05:30

Com. P. Pandurangarao, General Secretary, AIPEU, GDS (NFPE) has today submitted a detailed memorandum to Hon’ble Minister of Communication (I.T) on the dire need of Departmentalisation of GDS. The memorandum contains various suggestions for the departmentalisation and this is a very good start. Many kudos to Com. Pandurangarao.

Please click below for downloading the memorandum submitted by AIPEU GDS union on this subject.

Click here to view Memorandum

Some Important Orders

2012-05-16T17:09:00.002+05:30

1. Proposal for amendment in the existing provisions of the Franchise Scheme

Click here to view order No. 40-28/2010-Plg Dt. 03.05.2012

2. Holding of limited Departmental Competetive Examination for promotion to the cadre of Postmaster Grade I on 3.6.2012

Click here to view order No. A-34013/3/2012-DE Dt. 25.04.2012

3. Minutes of the meeting taken by Secretary (Posts)/Members, Postal Services Board with Postal JCA on 10.01.2012

Click here to view order No. 28-8/2011-D Dt. 14.05.2012

4. Monthly Mail Management Report - Discontinuance regarding

Click here to view No. 13-1/2011-D Dt, 14.05.2012