30.12.2016:

DECREASE IN IDA W.E.F. 1.1.2017:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers, IDA is to decrease w.e.f. 1.1.2017 by 0.8% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and by 1.3% where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.

29.12.2016:

MUMBAI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS G B MEETING:

AIBSNLREA, Mumbai Branch held a General Body meeting in the Conference Hall of Telephone House, Prabhadevi, Dadar (West) on 14.12.2016 at 14.00 hours under the president ship of Shri K R Gupta who also welcomed the members. Shri S P Varma, Branch Secretary reported the house about the sad demise of the wife of Shri K R Gupta, Branch President and expressed gratitude to Shri Gupta for attending the meeting despite this tragic loss. The house also observed two minutes silence in memory of the departed soul. Shri Varma further reported that along with seven other members he visited the offices of different units to purue the revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA. WTR has completed more than 80% of the work, but in Maharashtra Circle progress is slow and efforts are being to complete the work at the earliest. He also reported about the successful tour arranged by Shri S N Verma to visit Guwahati (Kamakshya Temple and other places), Shillong and Kolkata. He also appealed to the members not to be misled by the propaganda being made by another association regarding court case on pension arrears etc. He requested to go through the write up in AIBSNLREA site on this issue. He welcomed Shri N Sadacharam for enrolling himself as the Life Member. Smt Vijayalakhsmi Memon highlighted some specific problems. Branch Secretary assured to take up those issues with appropriate authorities. The meeting concluded after presentation of vote of thanks by Shri S N Verma.

28.12.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, YAMUNA NAGAR HELD:

A General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Yamuna Nagar (Haryana) branch was held on 25.12.2016 at Gopal Restaurant under the presidentship of Shri MCK Mittal. Nineteen members attended the meeting and three new retired executives were enrolled as life members. The Branch Secretary Shri S L Purey reported about the activities of the branch. The case for extending the fitment benefits by merger of 78.2% IDA is being pursued vigorously with the concerned authorities. Revised PPOs in many cases have already been issued. Remaining cases are being pursued vigorously for speedy disposal. The members were eager to know the status of PRC.

27.12.2016:

29TH MEETING OF STANDING COMMITTEE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES (SCOVA):

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has notified that the 29th Meeting of SCOVA will be held in New Delhi on 12th January, 2017 under the chairmanship of Minister of State for (PP).

27.12.2016:

GUJARAT STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD A MEETING:

Gujarat State Branch of AIBSNLREA held a get-together cum Pensioners' day celebration meeting on 23rd December, 2016 at 15-00 Hrs in Ahmedabad medical Association Hall, Ahmedabad. Total 250 members attended the meeting and 13 new members joined the Association taking the total life membership to 916. The meeting started with lightening of lamp and prayer by Shri B. C. Chauhan. The house then observed two minutes silence in memory of departed members and also some family members. Two Doctors from Apollo Hospital graced the occasion as Guests who were honoured by presentation of bouquets [View the complete Report in the Gujarat State section of the State News Page of this website].

26.12.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, LUCKNOW BRANCH HELD:

A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Lucknow Branch was held on 23.12.2016 in the Recreation Club at Kaiserbagh Telephone Exchange under the President ship of Shri Jagdish Prasad. Forty nine members attended the meeting and three new retired executives were enrolled as Life members. Branch Secretary Shri S P Singh reported about the activities of the branch during the last four months. After the issue of order from BSNL Corporate office on 17.8.2016 for extending the fitment benefit by merger of 78.2℅ IDA, Branch Secretary, Branch President, Financial Secretary, Organising Secretary and other active members have repeatedly visited CGMT, PGMTD, GM MS,. GM NC, NTR, NTP and CCA offices and relentlessly pursued the matter. [Please view UP State section in State News Page of this website for the complete Report]

25.12.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO G.M. (ADMN), BSNL FOR EXTENDING CONCESSIONAL BROADBAND FACILITY TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES RESIDING IN MTNL SERVICE AREAS:

In pursuance to the discussions in the meeting held between AIBSNLREA and G.M. (Admn), BSNL on 20.12.2016 [View posting dated 21.12.2016 in this website), the Association has written a letter to him, requesting to “get the issue examined so that the retired BSNL employees residing in MTNL areas are also extended the same “monetary equivalent of the concession of Rs. 150/- per month” for broadband connections as now being allowed to the serving BSNL employees in MTNL areas to end the present discrimination and render justice”.   View the letter

24.12.2016:

BSNL ENDORSES DOT LETTER DATED 22.8.2016 CIRCULATING DOP&PW LETTER DATED 4.8.2016 REGULATING PENSION/GRATUITY/COMMUTATION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION/DISABILITY PENSION/EX-GRATIA LUMPSUM COMPENSATION ETC. AND REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2016 PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS ETC FOR NECESSARY ACTION :

BSNL has finally endorsed the DoT letter dated 22.8.2016 circulating DoP&PW letter dated 4.8.2016 for revision of provisions regulating pension/gratuity/commutation of pension/family pension/disability pension/ex-gratia lumpsum compensation etc., & revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners etc. for information and necessary action by the circles/units.   View the BSNL letter

24.12.2016:

FAMILY OF DECEASED GOVERNMENT SERVANT ELIGIBLE TO CLAIM TRAVELING ALLOWANCE BEYOND ONE YEAR PERIOD OF DEATH OF THE EMPLOYEE:

Department of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance) vide its OM No. 19016/1/2015-E.IV dated 21.12.2016 has clarified that the family of the  deceased Government servant may also be eligible to claim Traveling Allowance beyond one year time limit period with the approval of the FA of the concerned Ministry as provided under the GOI decision 2(iii) below Rule SR-147.   View the DoE letter

23.12.2016:

DOT SENDS THE REPORT RECEIVED FROM BSNL ON THE REPRESENTATION OF AIBSNLREA FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&T INSTRUCTIONS TO DEAL WITH THE CASES FOR WAIVER OF EXCESS/WRONGFUL PAYMENTS MADE TO THE BSNL EMPLOYEES:

It may be recalled that AIBSNLREA, in the background of the DOP&T OM dated 2.3.2016 that was issued following Supreme Court judgment in which it declared recovery of excess/wrongful payments in certain specific cases impermissible in law, took up the matter with Secretary, DOP&T and others including CMD, BSNL for its implementation in BSNL. In its representation, AIBSNLREA cited the case of Shri R Damodaran, Retired SDE and Branch Secretary of AIBSNLREA’s Coimbatore Branch from whom over Rs 80,000/- was recovered on the eve of his retirement after 12 years of making the payment. Thereafter, BSNL issued detailed guidelines to deal with the cases for excess/wrongful payments to the employees of BSNL [View posting dated 12.09.2016 in this website to read more]. Now BSNL has sent a reply to this Association, which has been forwarded by DOT’s PG Cell, wherein BSNL has enclosed a copy of the Guidelines issued by it on the subject and has stated that “The concerned employee may be advised to represent his case to the office from where he retired”.   View the DOT/BSNL letter

21.12.2016:

MEETING WITH GENERAL MANAGER (ADMN), BSNL:

AIBSNLREA had a meeting with Shri S K Sinha, General Manager (Admn), BSNL Corporate Office at his chamber yesterday (20.12.2016) to have a preliminary discussion on the issues which the Association had included as agenda items for discussion in its letter dated 16.08.2016 to Director (HR) with a request for granting a meeting [View posting dated 18.08.2016 in this website to read the letter]. This meeting was held by GM (Admn) on the advice of Director (HR) who desired that if the issues still remain unresolved, she will grant another meeting. Earlier to this meeting, the Association met Dy. GM (Estt), BSNL C.O. to ascertain the progress of few cases. Following is the status, mostly as discussed in the meeting, in respect of the issues taken up:

01. ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARDS TO THE BSNL PENSIONERS AS PER FORMAT ISSUED BY DOP&PW BY LINKING AADHAR CARD: General Manager (Admn) appreciated our concern and stated that the matter pertains to Establishment Branch and to be considered by that Branch. Earlier, Dy General Manager (Estt) had informed us that a comprehensive proposal in the matter has been sent by BSNL to DOT so that Pensioners’ Identity Cards as per a revised format and linking Aadhar Numbers, as ordered by DOP&PW, could be issued.

02. SANCTION OF MOBILE CONNECTION IN LIEU OF CONCESSIONAL RESIDENTIAL LANDLINE CONNECTION TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES: It was stated in the meeting that a proposal to sanction mobile connection in lieu of concessional landline connection to the retired BSNL employees in the non-feasible areas is under process and a decision is expected early.

03. RAISING THE FREE CALL LIMIT IN CONCESSIONAL RESIDENTIAL LANDLINE CONNECTION TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES: The representatives of the Association was told that a proposal to allow free night calling facility to the retired employees is now under active consideration. This will take care of the demand to increase the free call limit.

04. EXTENSION OF CONECSSIONAL BROADBAND FACILITY TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES RESIDING IN MTNL AREAS: The Association reiterated its request that the retired BSNL employees residing in MTNL areas be also extended the same “monetary equivalent of the concession of Rs. 150/- per month” for broadband connections as allowed to the serving BSNL employees. GM (Admn) advised the Association to send a comprehensive proposal in this regard for examination.

05. RESTORATION OF BENEFIT OF MEDICAL ALLOWANCE FOR OUTDOOR TREATMENT WITHOUT VOUCHER TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES: The Association was informed that SR Branch has also recommended the case. A detailed proposal in this regard has already been prepared and sent to Establishment Branch for further examination.

06. PROBLEMS FACED BY THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES IN GETTING THEIR CLAIMS FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS SETTLED ON TIME: GM (Admn) stated that the CGMs are being advised from time to time to settle the medical claims of the pensioners without delay. The Association thanked the administration for the same and also said that despite all these instructions, the claims are not being settled in time. GM (Admn) said that a web based program to know the status of pending bills which is proposed to be introduced might reduce this problem. The Association stated that CGM, ITPC Pune is yet to start field trial of the same and had informed the representatives of their Pune Branch that a prototype was sent to Corporate Office for approval and also clearance was sought for to start the field trial. GM (Admn) confirmed this and further informed that the cost of the server for the purpose has been estimated to be over Rupees one crore. Therefore, the CGM, ITPC Pune has been requested to rework on the program. The Association also brought to the notice of the GM (Admn) that it was reported by its West Bengal Branch that the medical claims of the pensioners which were being processed through ERP system has suddenly been stopped purportedly on the instruction of ERP Development Centre at Ghaziabad. It was assured to look into the matter. In regard to request of the Association for timely allotment and release of funds to the Circles, the Association was advised to take up the matter with Budget section.

07. ABNORMAL DELAY IN ISSUE OF PRESIDENTIAL ORDER FOR ABSORPTION OF THE RETIRED EXECUTIVES ON FINALIZATION OF THEIR DISCIPLINARY/VIGILANCE CASES: The Association was informed that the matter pertains to Vigilance/SR Section and the position can better be obtained from these sections. However, earlier on the day the Association gathered the information direct from STG.II section of DOT that the case for giving clearance for issue of Presidential Order for absorption in BSNL in respect S/Shri B S Patel, Retd SDE, B I Bhatt, Retd SDE, and M G Malek, Retd SDE, all from Gujarat Telecom Circle, is under process and awaiting the approval of DDG concerned. SR section of BSNL would do the needful on receipt of the clearance from DOT. Since the matter is in the final stage of settlement, the Association did not press further.

19.12.2016:

ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARDS TO THE ABSORBED BSNL IDA PENSIONERS IN THE REVISED FORMAT LINKING AADHAR NUMBERS AS PRESCRIBED BY DOP&PW - AIBSNLREA AGAIN TAKES UP THE MATTER WITH SECRETARY (PENSION):

AIBSNLREA has again represented to Secretary (Pension) requesting his intervention for implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 12.08.2015, prescribing a revised format and linking Aadhar number for issue of identity cards to the pensioners, to the absorbed BSNL IDA pensioners who draw their pension under CCS (Pension) Rules 1972.   View the letter

17.12.2016:

GUJARAT STATE OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD MEETING:

Gujarat State Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding a Get to-gather cum Dipavali Milan and New Year celebration meeting on 23-12-2016 at 15-00 Hrs in Amdavad Medical Association Hall, Near Natraj Cinema, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad. All members and other retired executives are requested to attend the meeting.

16.12.2016:

AIBSNLREA REPRESENTS TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA ON THE ISSUE OF PAYMENT OF ENHANCED GRATUITY TO THE ABSORBED BSNL IDA PENSIONERS AS ORDERED BY DOP&PW FOLLOWING ACCEPTANCE OF VII CPC RECOMMENDATIONS TOGETHER WITH INTEREST FOR DELAYED PAYMENT:

AIBSNLREA has represented to Prime Minister of India requesting his intervention on the above issue since Department of Telecommunication is not making payment of enhanced gratuity effective from 1.1.2016 to the absorbed BSNL IDA pensioners as per the OM dated 4.8.2016 issued by Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare following acceptance of VII CPC recommendations, despite already having a clear clarification of the rule position on the subject. The clarification was given to DOT when it referred the issue of applicability of DOP&PW OM dated 2.9.2008, similarly enhancing the limit of DCRG and other benefits following acceptance of VI CPC recommendations, to the absorbed BSNL IDA pensioners The Association has demanded payment of gratuity w.e.f. 1.1.2016 together with interest for delayed payment to the eligible BSNL IDA pensioners.   View the letter

13.12.2016:

NON-COMPLIANCE OF BSNL’S ORDER CIRCULATING DETAILED GUIDELINES FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS IN UDAIPUR SSA OF RAJASTHAN TELECOM CIRCLE - AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE:

AIBSNLREA has taken up the above issue with Director (HR), BSNL requesting her to advise the concerned authorities in Rajasthan to strictly comply with the instructions as contained in the BSNL Order dated 17.08.2016 for revision of pension of the BSNL IDA pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2016 so that the concerned pensioners get their revised pension on time. The matter has been taken up since it was reported that Udaipur TD was lagging in processing the pension revision cases.   View the letter

13.12.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL REGARDING NON-EMPANELMENT OF FULLY EQUIPPEED SPECIALY PRIVATE HOSPITALS FOR INDOOR TREATMENT IN UDAIPUR TD OF RAJASTHAN TELECOM CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter, vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/65 dated 13.12.2016, to Director (HR), BSNL urging her intervention for empanelment of fully equipped private Hospitals with availability of specialist Doctors for indoor treatment in Udaipur SSA of Rajasthan Telecom Circle.   View the letter

12.12.2016:

AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH GENERAL BODY MEETING HELD:

The General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch was held on 11.12.2016 under the Presidentship of Shri M.Sankarasubbu, a senior member of the Branch. Shri R.R.Balasubramanian, Asst. Secretary welcomed the gathering. After Presidential address by Shri M.Sankarasubbu, a brief report on activities was submitted by the Asst. Secretary, since Shri L.Sundararaman, the Secretary has gone abroad. The report mainly covered the present status regarding issue of revised PPO by CCA Tamilnadu on pension revision with 78.2% fitment benefit. Shri S.Ratnasubramanian, AGS then spoke on issues like delinking of 33 years of qualifying service for revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners, issue of identity card in the format prescribed by DoP&PW, anomaly in pension revision for those who retired during the first ten months after formation of BSNL on 1.10.2000 and CHQ's appeal to members not to fall prey to SMS from a group asking for money and wakalatnama. Then Dr.A.Chandrasekaran, MS Ortho., PhD, a senior Surgeon who was HOD of SRMC Porur for nearly 25 years, delivered guest lecture on 'Geriatric Care', but his lecture mostly covered dos and don'ts in the face of unethical medical practices. The participants had lively interaction with the Surgeon on various health issues and were full of praise for the Surgeon's social outlook and enjoyed his lecture and subsequent interaction. It was decided that Shri Kamsundhar will act as Secretary till the return of the Secretary from abroad. The meeting ended with Vote of Thanks by Asst. Secretary.

11.12.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AMBALA BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

A General Body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 9.12.2016 at Food Court Restaurant under the chairmanship of Shri P C Chauhan, Branch President. 24 members attended the meeting. Two new life members were also enrolled in Ambala Branch. Shri K L Gakhar, Asstt Branch Secretary conducted the meeting and briefed the members about the latest status of the cases for revision of pension due to merger of 78.2% IDA in Circle office and Ambala SSA. He informed that about 70% of the cases from Circle office and Ambala SSA have already been sent to CCA for issue of revised PPOs. He further informed that he is continuously pursuing the matter with concerned authorities for speedy disposal. The meeting was followed by lunch.

10.12.2016:

BSNL WEST BENGAL CIVIL ZONE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION TO SECRETARY (PENSION) ABOUT INACTION OF DOT TO RESTORE THE BENEFIT OF 2ND ACP WRONGLY WITHDRAWN FROM SOME SDEs (CIVIL) OF WEST BENGAL CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA had earlier addressed a letter, vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/18 dated 09.05.2016, to Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW about the inaction of Department of Telecommunications to restore the benefit of 2nd ACP granted to some retired Executives of Civil Wing, BSNL, West Bengal Circle [View posting dated 10.05.2016 in this website to read the letter]. The Association had asserted in its letter that these executives were rightly granted the benefit of 2nd ACP in accordance with the rules, but subsequently the benefit was withdrawn unjustifiably. Now BSNL West Bengal Civil Zone, Kolkata has sent a reply which serves no purpose. AIBSNLREA will again take up the issue at the highest level.   View the BSNL WB civil zone letter

09.12.2016:

EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS BI-ANNUAL GB MEETING:

Bi annual General Body meeting of East Godavari District Branch of AIBSNLREA was held at Hotel Surya at 10-00hrs on 06-12-2016 under the chairmanship of Shri GV Rama Krishna, Branch President. 85 members attended the meeting. After praqyer, the House observed two minutes silence to pay homage to Late Shri Ch Satyanarayana SDE (Retd), Kumari Jayalalitha, Chief Minister of Tamilnadu on her sad demise, and also to Shri BR Ambedakar on his 60th anniversary. Shri Vara Prasad GSVSS submitted his report and Shri Naidu KBS presented the audited balance sheet to the house. After their approval, the old body was dissolved and a new body was elected. Shri John Crisostam, Sr GMTD EG District graced the function along with other DGMs. After the National Anthem, the house was adjourned for Lunch.   View detailed report of the meeting   View the list of office bearers   View photographs   View list of pension revision cases processed

09.12.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF KURUKSHETRA BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

General Body meeting of the Kurukshetra Branch (Haryana) was held in Neelkanthi Yatri Niwas on 5.12.2016 under the chairmanship of Shri D S Sandhu. Discussions on following points were initiated by the Branch Secretary and discussed by the members present in the meeting:- (1). Latest information on pay fixation and pension revision of all members was conveyed as received from SSA Karnal having paid a visit in person by the Branch Secretary. President Shri D S Sandhu also spoke to CCA Haryana at Ambala who assured completion of all cases by 31st December, 2016. Most of the cases of pre-2007 pensioners are finalised and PPOs have also been issued. (2) Regarding appeal by one association for donation to initiate and plead a legal case for denied arrears, members were requested not to be misled and wait for the directions by our CHQ. (3). Some medical bill cases and also leave encashment discrepancies were discussed and decided to be taken up with SSA Karnal (4). Since the last Branch body was formed on 24.9-2013, it was decided to form a new body by conducting fresh election. After dissolution of old Body, Shri D S Sandhu was authorised to conduct fresh election. Adopting due procedures, nominations and election a new set of Office Bearers was declared unanimously. Eleven new members also joined the Association.   View List of new office bearers

06.12.2016:

E-JOURNAL DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE:

December 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

03.12.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH HELD:

A general body meeting of AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch was held on 26.11.2016 at CTO Hall, Kolkata under the chairmanship of Shri S.K.Maitra, State President. There was a record gathering of 300 members overflowing the capacity of the hall. Before start of the meeting, a brief cultural function was arranged in which a few members of the Association and two working executives participated. The GB took up the regular agenda items at 3 PM which started by observing one minute silence to pay homage to the departed leaders Shri Dipen Ghosh and one of our member Shri Naba kumar Saha. Shri S.R.Palit, State Secretary welcomed all the participants and wished them season’s Greetings and placed his report before the house. Shri K P Ghosh, Jt. State Secretary placed the status report on implementation of 78.2% fitment benefit at various BSNL units and CCA offices. Thereafter Shri Debasis Mitra, State Organizing Secretary discussed the organizational aspects in brief. Five members participated in the discussion of which Shri Badal Halder opposed the stated court case by some group and requested the members not to sign on any papers sent by them. State Secretary in his reply appraised the house regarding the activities of the Association and elaborately discussed the scope and limitation of the Pensioners’ organizations. He also criticized the role of the working Executives’ Association in the matter of BSNL Pensioners’ legitimate demands. He also appealed to the members not to fall prey to the mischievous propaganda of any group. He told that though the work on 78.2% fitment benefit is slow and sluggish in some of the units, the Association is vigorously pursuing the issue with concerned BSNL Units and CCA authorities and may even go for organizational action, if needed. Eight new members were enrolled in the meeting. Light refreshment was also served in the meeting which was sponsored by S/Shri Sunil Chandra Paul and Prakash Chakraborty, Members of the Branch. The meeting was concluded with vote of thanks to the chair.   View the Report of the State Secretary   View photographs

01.12.2016:

REVISION OF PROVISIONAL PENSION SANCTIONED UNDER RULE 69 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES, 1972:

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has issued orders revising the provisional pension of those who retired before 1.1.2016 and sanctioned provisional pension on account of departmental/judicial proceedings or suspension and those who were suspended before 1.1.2016 and sanctioned provisional pension on retirement on or after 1.1.2016 in pursuance of orders for revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners based on Government decision on the recommendations of VII CPC.   View the DOP&PW letter

29.11.2016:

DOP&PW ORDERS PROCESSING OF PENSION CASES MANDATORY THROUGH BHAVISHYA (ONLINE PENSION SANCTION AND PAYMENT TRACKING SYSTEM) :

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has issued orders making it mandatory to process the pension cases through Bhavishya (online pension sanction and payment tracking System) w.e.f 1.1.2017.   View the DOP&PW letter

29.11.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH:

The General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch will be held on SUNDAY the 11th December 2016 at 10 AM at Lecture Hall of Institution of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineers – IETE Chennai Centre, 37 Conran Smith Road, Main Entrance Peters Road, Gopalapuram, Chennai - 600086 under the Presidentship of Com.V.Dakshinamoorthy, Branch President. Apart from our deliberations, Dr.A.Chandrasekaran DNB Ortho., [Former HOD Orthopedics, Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre, Porur] has kindly consented to deliver a Honorary Lecture on 'Geriatric Care' . The meeting will be followed by Lunch. All are requested to attend without fail.

26.11.2016:

AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA (WEST VIDARBHA REGION) HELD ITS GB MEETING :

: A General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA , Amravati Branch was held under the chairmanship of Shri R. W.Tidake , President of the Branch on 25th November 2016 at the Conference Hall of G. M. Telecom, BSNL, Amravati. The meeting was attended by 26 members of the Branch. Three new members namely S/Shri S. K. Narkhede , P.D. Mankar and S. K.Gujar joined the association. Shri V. G. Dakhode , State Secretary, Maharashtra State Branch was also present. The President Shri Tidake and Branch Secretary Shri D. V. Rokade briefed the house about the progress as on date regarding revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA. They reported that out of 147 Pre- 2007 cases, all the cases have been sent to CCA Nagpur. Again, out of 239 Post -2007 cases, 235 cases have been sent to CCA Office and only 3-4 cases are pending for want of Service Book. The House was also informed that renewal of BSNLMRS card, which was previously being renewed for one year, has been agreed to be renewed for a period of 5 years. Shri V. G. Dakhode, State Secretary, Maharashtra cautioned the members about the mischievous game being played by some people in the name of court case on 78.2% IDA merger issue and apprised them about the negative role played by this group in this issue. He also reminded the members about the consistent stand of AIBSNLREA on this matter since beginning and the decision taken in the All India Conference of the Association at Bhubneshwar to seek legal remedy to get the benefit w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and the resultant arrears. The meeting ended after presentation of vote of thanks by Shri M.Z.Shinde, Finance Secretary.

25.11.2016:

NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED AT SAHARANPUR, UTTAR PRADESH:

A meeting of BSNL retired executives was held on 23rd November 2016 at Gandhi Park office of BSNL Sharanpur in UP West circle to discuss the prospects of forming a branch of retired executives. On behalf of the CHQ AIBSNLREA, Shri D S Sandhu, Organizing Secretary (North) attended the meeting. The members present stated about the difficulties being faced by them regarding abnormal delay in payments of Medical Bills, non payment of 78.2% IDA arrears and the issue of Identity Cards etc. The need of forming a branch Association was strongly felt by all those present. Shri Sandhu briefed the gathering about the various activities carried out by the CHQ AIBSNLREA and its untiring efforts in high lighting and resolving the cases of utmost importance to the retirees. The Org. Secretary (North) cautioned the members to be aware of certain so called `associations of pensioners` mushroomed here and there and collecting `donations` by be-fooling the people, in the name of some court case. After a brief discussion and taking into account of the fact that AIBSNLREA which was founded in 2008 is the oldest Association of BSNL retirees, the members unanimously decided to associate their newly formed branch with AIBSNLREA. All the 16 members present joined as LIFE MEMBERS of the Association. Of the 16 members one joined as Associate member and another one ( Shri T P Jain ) got his membership transferred from Ambala branch. A set of office bearers was unanimously elected with Shri Bal Chander as President, Shri Karan Singh as Branch Secretary and Shri Raj Pal Singh as Finance Secretary. The Org Secretary (North) congratulated the office bearers and assured them all the help on behalf of the CHQ. At the end, newly elected Secretary Shri Karan Singh assured that soon he will bring another 15 to 20 members to the fold of the Association.   View the List of Office bearers

25.11.2016:

CHQ OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA MET PRINCIPAL CCA, GUJARAT:

S/Shri R C Sharma, AGS and B M Bhavsar, Organising Secretary (West) of AIBSNLREA met Shri Gopal Joshi, Pr.CCA Maharshtra Circle, Mumbai, who is looking after Gujarat Telecom Circle also, on 21.11.2016 to discuss about the progress of 78.2 % IDA pension revision case. The Office bearers were informed that despite heavy shortage of staff, two separate teams are engaged in completing the entire pension revision work for Pre-2007 and Post-2007 pensioners on time bound basis. The entire work is expected to be completed even before 31.12.2016. Out of total 6400 cases of post-2007 pensioners, 4900 cases have been completed. Similarly, out of total 3400 cases of pre-2007 pensioners, 3100 cases are complete. It was further informed that Amreli and Godhra SSAs have not send their pension revision cases for Pre-2007 pensioners. Similarly, Palanpur SSA is yet to send the pension revision cases of Post-2007 pensioners. It was assured to sort out this problem. It is worth mentioning that beside Shri Bhavsar, State Secretary AIBSNLREA Shri A B Patel and few other pensioners are also extending help to the CCA staff.

22.11.2016:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION TO MOSC ON DENIAL OF BENEFITS LIKE ENHANCED DCRG EFFECTIVE FROM 1.1.2016 TO BSNL PENSIONERS TO THE DOT:

AIBSNLREA had earlier represented to Minister of State for Communications with copy endorsed also to the Minister of State (PP), vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/57 dated 14.10.2016, seeking intervention in the matter of non-extending the benefits of enhanced DCRG w.e.f. 1.1.2016 and also the benefit of “revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners – delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years” to the absorbed BSNL pensioners [view posting dated 14.10.2016 in this website to read the letter]. DOP&PW has now forwarded the said representation to Department of Telecommunication to examine the issues as per extant rules and intimate the Association.   View the DOP&PW letter

22.11.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 21.10.2016 ON PAINFUL DECISION OF ITS WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH TO STAGE DHARNA AGAINST INDIFFERENT ATTITUDE OF BSNL, WB TELECOM CIRCLE FORWARDED BY DOP&PW TO DOT:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter, vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/59 dated 21.10.2016, to Director (HR), BSNL with copy endorsed to Secretary (Pension) regarding the decision of AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State branch to stage Dharna to protest against the indifferent attitude of BSNL, West Bengal Telecom Circle towards the issues concerning the BSNL pensioners and sought for her intervention [view posting dated 22.10.2016 in this website to read the letter]. Now Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has forwarded the said representation to Department of Telecommunication to examine the issues and inform the Association suitably.   View the DOP&PW letter

22.11.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH:

A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch will be held on Saturday, 26th November 2016 at 1 PM. in the Telecom Institute Hall, CTO Kolkata. All the members are requested to attend the meeting punctually. Wall Calendar for the year 2017 will be distributed in the meeting.

22.11.2016:

AIBSNLREA, EAST GODAVARI BRANCH TO HOLD ITS BI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE:

East Godavari Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its bi-annual conference at Hotel Surya, Rajamahendravaram on 06.12.2016. The meeting will start at 09.30 hours. Shri John Chrisostom, Sr. GMTD, Rajamahendravaram has kindly consented to grace the occasion. All the members and other retired executives are requested to attend the meeting.

21.11.2016:

KANPUR BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD A GB MEETING:

Kanpur Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 10.11.2016 in the Recreation Club at Kanpur Telephone Exchange. Shri S B Saini, Branch Secretary briefed the members about local activities of the Association. Three more new life members joined the Association. Shri R S Arora, State Secretary, UP attended the meeting and apprised the members about the latest status on implementation of DOT order regarding pension revision with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA. He informed that all the revision cases upto 31.12.2009 are near finalization and are likely to be sent to CCA Office in the coming week. He also informed the members about the issues which are being pursued by CHQ for early settlement. He also reminded the members about the decision of the All India Conference of the Association held at Bhubaneswar to seek legal remedy to get the benefit of fitment by merger of 78.2% IDA w.e.f. 1.1.2007 instead of 10.06.2013 as ordered by DOT and requested for their support. A demonstration on light exercise with Om Dhawani was also made by the State Secretary. The meeting was adjourned after observing two minutes silence in memory of the departed members.

19.11.2016:

DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL & TRAINING FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 29.08.2016 ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY, DOP&T REQUESTING TO CAUSE REFUND OF RECOVERY MADE AFTER 12 YEARS OF EXTENSION OF BENEFIT OF PAY FIXATION ON PROMOTION TO SECRETARY, DOT:

AIBSNLREA, vide its letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/46 dated 29.08.2016, had requested Shri B P Sharma, Secretary, Department of Personnel & Training to cause refund of recovery made after 12 years of extension of the benefit of pay fixation on promotion under FR-22 from the salary of some BSNL Executives since retired from service on superannuation in accordance with the decision circulated vide DOPT F.No.18/03/2015-Estt(Pay-I) dated 02.03.2016. Department of Personnel & Training has since forwarded the above representation to Secretary, Department of Telecommunication advising it to seek clarification/interpretation of any rule, if needed, from that Department. It may be recalled that after our representation, BSNL has already issued detailed guidelines, in pursuance of DOP&T Order dated 02.03.2016, to deal with the cases for waiver of excess/wrongful payments made to the BSNL employees. In this connection postings dated 31.08.2016, 12.09.2016 and 19.10.2016 in this website may be viewed.   View the DOPT letter

17.11.2016:

ANOTHER NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED IN FARIDABAD (HARYANA):

On 16th November 2016, the retired BSNL Executives of Faridabad assembled in the Conference Hall of the GMT, Faridabad SSA for formation of an association branch and to associate it with one responsible and trustworthy registered Association of retired BSNL executives. Shri D S Sandhu, Organizing Secretary (North), CHQ of AIBSNLREA and Shri Jogi Ram, Branch Secretary, Kurukshetra attended the meeting and briefed the members about the problems being faced by the pensioners in general and the BSNL absorbed retirees in particular. They also briefed about the continuous and untiring efforts being made by the Central Headquarters of AIBSNLREA for their redressal. Shri Sandhu further highlighted about the working style of AIBSNLREA at CHQ level, the honest approach and non political character of the Association which was founded in the year 2008. Thereafter, the members unanimously decided to form a Branch and associate it with AIBSNLREA and also elected a set of office bearers with S/Shri Jagdish Saran, V K Kataria and T L Verma as Branch President, Branch Secretary and Finance Secretary respectively. All the 13 members present in the meeting joined as Life Members and many more are set to join shortly as was reported by Branch Secretary Shri Kataria. Shri Sandu, Organizing Secretary (North) then assured the members on behalf of the CHQ for early action for redressal of their grievances.   View the List of office bearers

14.11.2016:

NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED AT YAMUNANAGAR (HARYANA):

A meeting of retired Executives of BSNL was convened in Gopal Restaurant at Yamunanagar (Haryana) on 11th November, 2016 to form of a Branch of AIBSNLREA. S/Shri D S Sandhu, Organizing Secretary (North), CHQ and Jogi Ram, Branch Secretary, Kurukshetra attended the meeting and briefed the gathering about the important issues being faced by the retired executives of BSNL and the efforts being made by the Central Headquarters of the Association to resolve them. The members present in the meeting expressed their discontentment over the inordinate delay in making the payments of 78.2% IDA pension arrears and reimbursement of medical claims. They also strongly felt the need for formation of a Branch. The members then unanimously elected a set of office bearers with S/Shri M C K Mittal as President, S L Purey as Branch Secretary and S R Kansal as Finance Secretary. All the 16 retired Executives present in the meeting joined the Association as life members.   View the List of office bearers

14.11.2016:

LAST DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF LIFE CERTIFICATE BY PENSIONERS EXTENDED UPTO 15TH JANUARY 2017:

In view of the quantum of work being handled by Banks and Post Offices following Government decision of demonetising 500 Rupees and 1000 Rupees notes, Government of India has issued instructions extending the last date for submission of Annual Life Certificates by Pensioners upto 15th January 2017.   View the MoF letter

13.11.2016:

AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH HELD DISCUSSIONS WITH CGM, CALCUTTA TELEPHONES AND PRINCIPAL CCA, KOLKATA:

A delegation comprising of S/Shri S.K.Maitra President, S.R.Palit State Secretary, S.C.Roy Vice President, Kartik Dey Asst. Secretary and K.P.Ghosh Joint Secretary met Shri S.P.Tripathy CGM CTD on 10.11.2016. The GM(HR), CTD was also present in the meeting. The representatives of the Association expressed their concern over the slow progress of pension revision cases. They brought to the notice of the CGM, quoting facts and figures, that most of the units under CTD were lagging in processing and forwarding the pension revision cases to the concerned CCA. The CGM apprised the delegation that he was aware of the situation and assured to complete the whole process by November end. The Association also raised the issue of abnormal delay in settlement of pending medical claims and cited some specific indoor treatment cases which were pending for more than a year. The CGM again assured early action and instructed GM(HR) to call for reports and resolve the issues. The same delegation thereafter met the Principal CCA Smt Srinvanti Pal Zaheer. The Association raised the matter regarding issue of revised PPOs. It was informed by the Pr. CCA that so far, her office, has received 956 Pre-2007 and 258 Post 2007 cases as on 31.10.2016. Out of which, 300 cases have been revised and sanctioned memos dispatched. The Association expressed dissatisfaction on slow progress of the cases and demanded their speedy disposal. The representatives of the Association also raised the issues regarding holding of Pension Adalat on regular basis, issue of duplicate copy of missing PPOs and refund of deducted gratuity etc. The Pr CCA assured to resolve the issues.

11.11.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH MEET DGM WTR/WTP NAGPUR:

Representatives of AIBSNLREA, East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch comprising of S/Shri U B Nikose, Branch President, Arun Deshpande, Branch Secretary, Bhola Kamble, Asst Branch Secretary, N R Rachkondawar Asst Branch Secretary, and B P Mazumdar, Finance Secretary along with Shri P R Bhujbal, CHQ Vice President met Shri J V Dhakate DGM WTR and Shri M M Naikwade DGM WTP Nagpur separately on 8th November 2016 to discuss the progress of revision of pension/family pension of BSNL pensioners/family pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2013. Both WTR/WTP Units, Nagpur have already completed the pay fixation work of the post 2007 pensioners and now pension revision work of both pre-2007 and post-2007 pensioners is being taken up. Both the DGMs assured to forward all the pension revision cases to CGM WTR/WTP Mumbai for onward transmission to CCA Mumbai before the cut-off date.

11.11.2016:

VADODARA BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD GB MEETING:

Vadodara (Gujarat) Branch of AIBSNLREA held a GB meeting on 09.11.2016 which was attended by 60 members. The meeting was chaired by Shri H K Ainapure, Branch President. Shri R T Shah, Branch Secretary presented a report about the activities of the Association at Branch level. Shri A.B.Patel, State Secretary gave a brief account of the work for revision of pension cases. Most of the SSAs have already completed the work and sent the same to CCA Office. More than 1000 revised PPOs have also been issued by the CCA. He also explained about the reimbursement of dental charges under BSNLMRS for outdoor treatment. Shri B.M.Bhavsar, Organising Secretary (West), CHQ gave detailed information about the clarification issued to the Banks and the latest position of pension revision cases etc. The meeting was followed by lunch.

09.11.2016:

UP STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MEET CCA, UP (EAST):

S/Shri R S Arora, State Secretary and Ambika Singh, State Finance Secretary of AIBSNLREA, UP State Branch met CCA, UP (East), Lucknow. They requested the CCA to expedite disposal of the pension revision cases which have already reached his office. The representatives were assured that despite shortage of staff, efforts are being made to complete the entire exercise by 31.12.2016 as ordered by DOT. He also informed that CGMT, UP (East) has also been requested to depute a few more officials to expedite the ongoing efforts to clear all the cases being received.

07.11.2016:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF NON-PAYMENT OF ENHANCED AMOUNT OF DCRG AND OTHER BENEFITS AS PER 7th CPC TO THE ABSORBED BSNL IDA PENSIONERS:

AIBSNLREA has again taken up the above issue. The Association has addressed a letter to DDG(Estt), DOT and others and pointed out that, during implementation of 6th CPC recommendations, DOT itself while seeking clarification from DOP&PW on the applicability of its O.M. revising the rules on enhanced amount of DCRG, calculation of emoluments for pension/family pension, Commutation of pension and qualifying service etc, had also expressed the view that the changed rules are applicable to the absorbed BSNL pensioners. The DOP&PW also clarified that the “formula applicable to Central Govt. pensioners has changed vide DOP&PW O.M. dated 2.9.2008 and therefore, the changed formula provided in O.M. dated 2.9.2008 is applicable to such absorbees also”. The Association has contended that “once it has been clarified that changed pension rules are equally applicable to the absorbed BSNL IDA pensioners, raising of doubts time and again on the same issue is unwarranted and unacceptable”. Accordingly, the Association has requested DDG(Estt) to “advise CCA Offices and other Units to immediately extend the benefits of changed rules on DCRG, Pension, Commutation etc, as circulated by DOP&PW vide its O.M. No. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(i) dated 04.08.2016, to the absorbed BSNL IDA pensioners”.   View the letter

06.11.2016:

E-JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE:

November 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

04.11.2016:

ENHANCEMENT IN MAXIMUM LIMIT OF GRATUITY:

Though DOP&PW had circulated the decision of the Government on 7th CPC recommendations on pensionary benefits which includes enhancement in maximum limit of DCRG to Rs 20 lakhs w.e.f.01.01.2016, the same has not yet been implemented in respect of the BSNL IDA pensioners. Besides a few CCAs, the BSNL Corporate Office has also sought clarification from DOT regarding applicability of the said DOP&PW OM, circulating the decisions, to the BSNL IDA pensioners. DOT is yet to respond to these communications. AIBSNLREA has already taken up the matter with MOSC&IT and others for immediate implementation of enhancement in maximum limit of gratuity to the BSNL IDA pensioners and is being followed up. The matter was further discussed with BSNL. Pending issue of clarification, BSNL was requested to circulate the OM dated 04.08.2016 duly endorsed by DOT on 22.08.2016. This has been agreed to. We expect early resolution of the issue regarding extending the benefit to the BSNL IDA pensioners w.e.f. 1.1.2016.

04.11.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION URGING PRIME MINISTER TO ADVISE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS TO INTRODUCE DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATE SYSTEM OR SIMILAR ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBMISSION OF ANNUAL LIFE CERTIFICATE BY THE DOT/BSNL/MTNL PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS TO AVAIL CONTINUATION OF CONCESSIONAL TELEPHONE FACILITY AT THEIR RESIDENCE - PMO SENDS IT TO SECRETARY (TELECOM):

AIBSNLREA had earlier represented to Prime Minister to advise Ministry of Communications for early introduction of a Digital Life Certificate system or a similar arrangement for the DOT/BSNL/MTNL pensioners/family pensioners who are required to present themselves physically to submit life certificate every year to avail the benefit of concessional telephone facility [ View posting dated 24.10.2016 in this website to read the letter]. Prime Minister’s Office has since sent the representation to Secretary, Department of Telecommunications for action as appropriate.   View the letter

31.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DOP&PW TO ADVISE DOT TO IMMEDIATELY IMPLEMENT ITS OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS – DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare about non-implementation of its OM dated 06.04.2016 to the BSNL IDA Pensioners by DOT and against its seeking clarifications from DOP&PW on its applicability. AIBSNLREA has cited the past instances when DOT had implemented all the Orders revising pension rules connected with linkage of full pension with 33 years of qualifying service to the BSNL IDA Pensioners after obtaining clarifications from DOP&PW. The Association has maintained since the OM 06.04.2016 is also for modification of pension rules, this should be implemented to the absorbed BSNL pensioners.   View the letter

30.10.2016:

ALLAHABAD BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Allahabad Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body meeting in the premises of GMTD Office, Allahabad and elected new Office bearers against a few vacant posts. Shri R S Arora, UP State Secretary attended the meeting and briefed the members about the development on various issues [For full report of the meeting, please view the UP State section of State News page of this website].

29.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA SEEKS CLARIFICATION FROM DOP&PW REGARDING APPLICABILITY OF ITS ORDER ALLOWING USE OF STATE EMBLEM ON THE IDENTITY CARD OF THE RETIRED PERSONNEL/PENSIONERS IN RESPECT OF BSNL PENSIONERS:

In the last posting in this website yesterday, it was reported that DOP&PW has clarified that the State Emblem can be used on the Identity Cards issued to the Government personnel/pensioners retired from Central Government Civil service. It was also clarified that this provision is not applicable in respect of the pensioners of the Autonomous Bodies etc. AIBSNLREA has now addressed a letter to DOP&PW seeking a clarification whether the order allowing use of State Emblem on the Identity Card of the Pensioners be applicable in respect of absorbed BSNL Pensioners who are covered under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 and paid pension by the Government from Central Civil Estimate.   View the letter

28.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ON “REFUND OF RECOVERY MADE AFTER 12 YEARS OF EXTENSION OF THE BENEFIT OF PAY FIXATION ON PROMOTION” RECEIVED THROUGH MOC-PG CELL - DOT FORWARDS THE SAME TO BSNL:

As reported in this website in the recent past that the representation of AIBSNLREA on the above issue to Secretary (Personnel), DOP&T and others have been forwarded to Establishment Branch of DOT. In this regard the postings dated 19.10.2016, 12.09.2016 and 31.08.2016 in this website may also be viewed. Now PG Cell of DOT has sent one of those copies of the representation to BSNL which was received from MOC-PG Cell. We have already reported that BSNL has issued detailed guidelines to deal with the cases for waiver of excess/wrongful payments made to the BSNL employees.   View the DoT letter

27.10.2016:

USE OF STATE EMBLEM IN IDENTITY CARDS ISSUED TO THE RETIRED GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL/PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED FROM CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CIVIL SERVICE ALLOWED:

DOP&PW, vide its No. 41/21/2000-P&PW(D) dated 26.10.2016, has since clarified that the State Emblem can be used in the Identity Cards issued to the Government personnel/pensioners retired from Central Government Civil service. It has further clarified that this provision is not applicable in respect of the pensioners of the Autonomous Bodies etc. These Autonomous Bodies may, however, use their own logo on the Identity Cards.   View the DoP&PW letter

26.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH PUTS OFF ITS CALL TO HOLD DHARNA TO PROTEST AGAINST THE INDIFFERENT ATTITUDE OF THE BSNL WEST BENGAL TELECOM CIRCLE ADMINISTRATION TOWARDS THE GRIEVANCES OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS:

In view of the firm commitment given in a written communication by BSNL, West Bengal Telecom Circle administration to settle the specific grievances of the BSNL pensioners/family pensioners, as raised by AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch, in a fixed time frame and also the request made to withdraw the call for agitation, the West Bengal State Branch of AIBSNLREA has taken a decision to put off the agitation. The representatives of the Association even had discussion across the table with the Administration on 25.10.2016 in which the assurances given were reconfirmed. In this regard, posting dated 22.10.2016 in this website be viewed.   View the letter by WB Telecom Circle

26.10.2016:

EAST GODAVARI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS EC MEETING:

The Executive Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, East Godavari District Branch was held on 24.10.2016 under the president ship of Sri GV Rama Krishna, District President. Shri GSVSS Vara Prasad, District Secretary welcomed the members and informed the executive body about the sad demise Shri Ch Satyanarayana. The house then paid homage to the departed soul. [Full Report on the same may be viewed in Andhra Pradesh section of State News Page of this website].

25.10.2016:

REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS – DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS – STATUS REGARDING APPLICABILITY OF THE ORDER TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

It may be recalled that, following court judgments, DOP&PW had issued an OM on 06.04.2016 allowing revision of pension of the pre-2006 pensioners delinking qualifying service of 33 years. But it was not implemented in respect of the BSNL pensioners since some CCAs raised their doubts about its applicability in case of BSNL IDA pensioners and also some other issues. AIBSNLREA strongly believe since this is a modification of the Rules under CCS (Pension) Rules regulating pension, the BSNL pensioners, who are covered under the same CCS (Pension) Rules, are also to be extended the same benefit as envisaged in the said DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016. The Association had been taking up the issue time and again with all the concerned authorities. Meanwhile, at one point of time DOT was about to issue an order declaring that this is not applicable to the BSNL pensioners. But subsequently, it decided to take the views of the DOP&PW on the issue. Accordingly, DOT even referred the matter to DOP&PW. But since the reference sent by DOT was not clear to DOP&PW, it requested DOT to discuss the case. Thus, the issue still remains unresolved.

25.10.2016:

QUARTERLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, KOLHAPUR BRANCH HELD:

Quarterly General Body meeting of Kolhapur (Maharashtra) was held on 23.10.2016 in Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall, Kolhapur. Shri S H Mokashi, on the request of the house, chaired the meeting which started with prayer followed by welcome address by the President. S/Shri. AG Sankeshwari, DGM retired from Karnataka, and AM Benkae DGM retired from Kolhapur on their joining the Association were welcomed by the President with presentation of bouquet. 52 members attended the meeting [Please visit Maharashtra Section of State News page of this website for full report].

24.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA URGES PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA TO ADVISE MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS TO INTRODUCE DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATE SYSTEM OR SIMILAR ARRANGEMENT FOR SUBMISSION OF ANNUAL LIFE CERTIFICATE BY THE DOT/BSNL/MTNL PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS TO AVAIL CONTINUATION OF CONCESSIONAL TELEPHONE FACILITY AT THE RESIDENCE:

In order to dispense with the need to physically present themselves to the authorities for submission of annual Life Certificate by the DOT/BSNL/MTNL pensioners/family pensioners to avail continuation of concessional telephone facility at the residence, AIBSNLREA has urged Prime Minister of India to advise Ministry of Communications for early introduction of a Digital Life Certificate system or a similar arrangement for them.   View the letter

23.10.2016:

'ONE CLICK' PENSION REVISION CALCULATOR FOR PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED FROM 1.1.2007 TO 9.6.2013 UPDATED SHOWING ARREARS UPTO DECEMBER 2016:

'One Click' Pension revision calculator for pensioners who retired from 1.1.2007 to 9.6.2013 has now been updated showing arrears upto December 2016 and taking into account increase in IDA w.e.f. 1.10.2016.

22.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH TO STAGE DHARNA TO PROTEST AGAINST INDIFFERENT ATTITUDE OF THE WB TELECOM CIRCLE, BSNL TOWARDS THE ISSUES CONCERNING THE PENSIONERS:

In the background of the decision of the West Bengal State Branch of AIBSNLREA to stage Dharna against the indifferent attitude of BSNL West Bengal Telecom Circle, Kolkata towards the issues concerning the BSNL Pensioners, which has also been communicated to the Circle administration, the Central Headquarters of the Association has addressed a letter to Director (HR), BSNL with copy endorsed to others requesting immediate intervention to resolve the issues.   View the letter

20.10.2016:

EXTENSION OF CGHS FACILITIES TO THE BSNL PENSIONERS - DOT ISSUES ANOTHER ORDER REGARDING RECORDING OF BASIC PAY OF CDA SCALE WITH REFERENCE TO IDA SCALE IN PPOs:

AIBSNLREA has been taking up with both BSNL and DOT the difficulties that the BSNL pensioners desirous to opt for CGHS facility may face due to some ambiguities in the Orders extending the CGHS facility to the BSNL pensioners [The last reference that was made by this Association can be viewed in posting dated 02.09.2016 of this website]. Now DOT has issued another Order to remove some practical difficulties faced by the Pension Payment Authorities regarding mentioning of Basic Pay of CDA scale with reference to IDA scale in the PPOs to determine Grade Pay and Ward entitlement.   View the DoT letter

20.10.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH MEET CCA NAGPUR:

Representatives of AIBSNLREA, East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch comprising of S/Shri U B Nikose, Branch President, V W Patil, Vice President, Arun Deshpande, Branch Secretary, Bhola Kamble, Asst Branch Secretary and B P Mazumdar, Finance Secretary along with Shri P R Bhujbal, CHQ Vice President met Smt Ghosh CAO In-charge o/o CCA office Nagpur on 17.10.2016 and discussed about the progress of revision of pension/family pension of BSNL pensioners/family pensioners [Please visit Maharashtra section of the State News page of this website for full report].

19.10.2016:

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ON “REFUND OF RECOVERY MADE AFTER 12 YEARS OF EXTENSION OF THE BENEFIT OF PAY FIXATION ON PROMOTION” TO THE DOT:

AIBSNLREA had taken up the above issue in the background of a Supreme Court Order which declared cases of recovery of excess/wrongful payment in some specific conditions impermissible in law [View posting dated 31.08.2016 of this website]. DOP&T had also issued a detailed circular to comply with the said judgment. Now DPE has forwarded the copy of the said representation to DOT for examination and necessary action. Meanwhile, BSNL has issued detailed guidelines to deal with the cases for waiver of excess/wrongful payments made to the BSNL employees which will help the affected employees to get the desired relief [View posting dated 12.09.2016 of this website].   View the DPE letter

19.10.2016:

GENERAL BY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, SANGRUR BRANCH HELD:

A general body meeting of Sangrur Branch (Punjab State) of AIBSNLREA was held on 17.10.2016 at Kaula Park office of Shri Parshotam Dass, SDE (Retd). The meeting was presided over by Shri P K Jindal, Branch President. Eleven members attended the meeting that was held under the President ship of P K Jindal, Dy.GM (Retd) [ Please visit Punjab Section of the State News page of this website for the full report].

18.10.2016:

PREPARATION OF PENSION REVISION PAPERS IN BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:

It may be recalled that sometime back, AIBSNLREA had expressed its concern to Director (HR) due to no progress in the above case in BSNL Corporate Office in respect of the pensioners who retired from this Office [view posting dated 09.10.2016 of this website]. Today, it was telephonically informed that all the cases of pre-2007 pensioners whose papers were readily available have been completed and the same are being sent to DOT cell. In order to ensure no possible mistake in preparing the pension papers, the concerned Pensioners – specially those retired after 1.1.2007 and who received benefits of time bound upgradation etc after their retirement, which is not reflected in their present pension, may submit those papers to the Pension section of Corporate Office. However, this will not come in the way of revision of their pension, since these particulars are supposed to be available in Service Book.

17.10.2016:

AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA (WEST VIDARBHA REGION ) HELD ITS EC MEETING:

The newly elected executive body of AIBSNLREA, Amravati Branch held its first Executive Committee meeting, under the Chairmanship of Shri R.W. Tidake, President of the Branch, on 7th October, 2016 at the Conference Hall of G. M. Telecom Amravati. The meeting was attended by all the office bearers along with Shri V. G. Dakhode, State Secretary. The President and Branch Secretary Shri D V Rokade briefed the house about the discussion that took place with the GM/DGM BSNL, Amravati on 29.09.2016 regarding revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA [ Please visit Maharashtra Section of State News page of this website for full Report].

16.10.2016:

DENIAL OF BENEFIT OF TIME BOUND SCALE UPGRADATION TO THE ELIGIBLE RETIRED JTOs ON WRONG AND UNTENABLE PERCEPTION BY GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since taken up the above matter with CMD, BSNL and sought for his intervention to issue a clear direction to the Circle to extend the benefit of TBP to the eligible JTOs who are no more in service without any further delay. The Circle is not extending the benefit of Time Bound upgradation of Scale to the eligible JTOs who have since retired/resigned and even expired for the last four years. The benefit is not being extended on the ground that the E-1/E1A and E2/E2A scales are provisional in nature and there is likelihood of possible recovery of payment on finalization of the pay scales. The Association has contended that the present IDA pay scales in which JTOs and SDEs are placed are the DPE recommended standard pay scales and there is no scope for reduction of the pay scales of JTOs and SDEs on their finalization, since these are lowest in the series of standard pay scales. The Association has referred to the current proposal of BSNL to grant next higher standard pay scales to the JTOs/SDEs and stated that the apprehension expressed by Gujarat Telecom Circle in its reference to BSNL Corporate Office about likely recovery on finalization of revised E1A/E2A scales is therefore unfounded, imaginary and meaningless.   View the letter

15.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA, PALAKKAD BRANCH HELD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Palakkad Branch (Kerala) of AIBSNLREA had its GB meeting at Top in Town auditorium, Palakkad on 12.10.2016. The meeting began at 11.30 hrs with observation of silence in memory of Shri V K Ramachandran, Retd SDE, Ottapalam and an active member of the Branch who breathed his last on 10th October, 2016. Thereafter, discussions were held on other issues. It was informed to the House that the payment of arrears due to the orders issued on fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA is expected to take place only this year end. There was lengthy discussions regarding the present restricted payment on Medical facilities when admitted in hospital for In Patient treatment [Please visit Kerala State Section in State News Page of this website for full report].

14.10.2016:

NON-EXTENSION OF THE BENEFITS IN THE REVISED RULES REGARDING PENSION/PENSIONARY BENEFITS INCLUDING ENHANCED LIMIT OF DCRG TO RS. 20 LAKHS AS ORDERED BY DOP&PW VIDE ITS OM NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(i) DATED 04.08.2016, FOLLOWING ACCEPTANCE OF SEVENTH CPC RECOMMENDATIONS BY GOVERNMENT OF INDIA, TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS - AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE WITH MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHERS:

On receipt of complaints from the some absorbed BSNL Pensioners who retired on or after 1.1.2016 that they are not being extended the benefit of enhanced limit of DCRG – now raised to Rs. 20 lakhs by DOP&PW OM cited above, AIBSNLREA has since taken up the issue with Minister of State for Communications and others. The Association cites the similar situation that was created when DOP&PW ordered revision of pension rules to enhance the limit of DCRG to Rs 10 lakhs and other pensionary benefits, even those benefits were not being extended to the absorbed BSNL pensioners covered under the same CCS (Pension) Rules which cover the CG Employees also. The Association also added that “At that time, DOT issued clarifications vide its No. 40-31/2009-Pen(T) dated 4.5.2009 and No. 40-31/2009-Pen(T) dated 12.08.2009 stating that “revised rules for pension calculation as per 6th CPC with regard to limit of DCRG, commutation table, emoluments, qualifying service etc is applicable to IDA pensioners of BSNL covered under rule-37-A, w.e.f. 01.01.2006.” The Association further submited that “Once such a clear clarification is issued on the applicability of revised rules regarding DCRG etc on acceptance of CPC recommendations, it is not understood why every time such doubts are being raised. This shows that the concerned Officials and the administration are quite insensitive to the problems of the absorbed BSNL pensioners”. Finally, the Association requested the MOSC to get the issue resolved.   View the letter

13.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA ONCE AGAIN TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF NON-EXTENSION OF THE INTENDED BENEFIT OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON “ REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS - DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS” BY DOT TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

In continuation to its earlier letter dated 06.09.2016 [View posting dated 09.09.2016 of this website] and in the background that DOT had sought clarification from DOP&PW about the applicability of its OM dated 06.04.2016 to the absorbed BSNL pensioners, AIBSNLREA has again written a letter to Secretary (Pension) with copy endorsed to others on the above issue. The Association has requested for his personal intervention “in the matter so that a clear direction is given to Department of Telecommunication to extend the intended benefit as envisaged in the DOP&PW OM No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 06.04.2016 immediately to the absorbed BSNL Pensioners drawing pension/pensionary benefits from the Government of India”.   View the letter

10.10.2016:

NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA AT AHMEDNAGAR (MAHARASHTRA) FORMED:

In a meeting of the retired Executives of BSNL held on 09.10.2016 at Ahmednagar in Maharashtra State, a new Branch of AIBSNLREA was formed. The venue of the meeting was Telephone Bhawan, Ahmednagar. S/Shri S N Mupid, B B Controllu, the President and Branch Secretary respectively of Pune Branch of AIBSNLREA attended the meeting. The house was apprised of the activities of the Association. Later, following Office Bearers were elected unanimously to represent the Branch:- President: Shri V.R.Pawar (Mob:9422220009), Vice President: Shri J.M.Sayyed (Mob: 9403909922), Branch Secretary: Shri D A.Bhadange (Mob:9421440044), Asst Branch Secretary: Shri S.N.Nimbalkar (Mob: 9423168878), Finance Secretary: Shri S.N.Kshirsagar. (Mob. 9422222700).

08.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL REGARDING ITS EARLIER REQUEST FOR DISCUSSIONS ON SOME ISSUES CONCERNING THE BSNL PENSIONERS IN GENERAL AND THE BSNL EXECUTIVES IN PARTICULAR:

AIBSNLREA had earlier addressed a letter on 16.08.2016 (view posting dated 18.08.2016 of this website) requesting to spare some time to give an opportunity to the Association to present the issues, as were mentioned in the said letter, in person. The said letter was marked for getting the status on the issues taken up. Since nothing has been heard on the matter, the Association writes another letter to Director (HR).   View the letter

08.10.2016:

DOT ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION TO PRIME MINISTER COMPLAINING AGAINST DOT FOR PLAYING WITH THE CENTRALIZED PUBLIC GRIEVANCE REDRESS AND MONITORING SYSTEM:

DOT has since acknowledged receipt of AIBSNLREA’s representation dated 31.08.2016 [view posting dated 31.08.2016 and also posting dated 16.09.2016 and 17.09.2016 of this website] to the Prime Minister wherein it was pointed out how DOT is closing the grievances lodged in CPGRAMS with replies which are not connected to the grievances. The Association cited the disposal of its representation dated 20.07.2016 to DDF(Estt), DOT since registered under DOPPW/P/2016/03496 dated 29.07.2016 wherein DOT was requested to advise all CCA Offices to allow the benefit of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 for “revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners – delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years” to the BSNL IDA pensioners. But DOT without doing the needful had stated that it has endorsed the said OM of DOP&PW.   View the letter

08.10.2016:

DOT REPLIES TO AIBSNLREA’S APPEAL TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA URGING TO RENDER JUSTICE TO THE GROUP C EMPLOYEES OF DOT WHO WERE OFFERED BENEFIT OF OPTION TO RETAIN CDA PAY SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER:

DOT has since sent a reply to AIBSNLREA in response to its appeal dated 19.05.2016 to the President of India [view posting dated 22.05.2016 of this website] urging to render justice to the Group ‘C’ Employees of DOT who were offered the benefit of option to retain CDA pay scale till their promotion or retirement whichever is earlier while inviting option for their absorption in BSNL, but now being denied of the said benefit. DOT says that this is a policy matter and is currently under consideration.   View the letter

07.10.2016:

PENSION REVISION CALCULATORS IN EXCEL FORMAT UPDATED SHOWING ARREARS UPTO DECEMBER 2016:

Pension Revision calculators available above in Excel format for calculating arrears both for pre-2007 and post-2007 BSNL pensioners have been updated showing arrears upto December 2016, taking into account the increase in IDA w.e.f. 1.10.2016. Earlier they showed arrears upto September 2016. Similar update for 'One Click' calculator is under preparation and will be uploaded shortly.

07.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL REGARDING INACTION BY BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE TO PROCESS THE CASES FOR REVISION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION OF THE EMPLOYEES RETIRED FROM BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:

Since there is no progress in processing the cases for revision of pension/family pension, by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA/DR with Basic pay/Pension effectively amounting to 78.2% DA/DR for the purpose of fitment, in respect of the pensioners/family pensioners who retired from BSNL Corporate Office, AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Director (HR) requesting her immediate intervention in the matter.   View the letter

07.10.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, MUMBAI BRANCH HELD:

General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, Mumbai Branch was held in the Conference Hall, Fountain Telecom Building, 4th floor, Fort, Mumbai 400001 on 26.10.2016 at 14.15 Hrs with Shri Vasudeva on the chair. There was very good gathering of the members in the meeting. Branch Secretary informed the house about unfortunate and untimely death of Shri Rajeev Saxena, Retired DE ( NMS) Mumbai. The house observed two minutes silence in the memory of the departed soul. Shri Vasudeva welcomed all the members for attending meeting in good strength and gave valuable information to the members. He also suggested several methods for increasing the membership of the Branch. [Please view Maharashtra State Section of “State News Page” of this website for full Report]

06.10.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.10.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.10.2016 from 114.8% to 120.3% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  Click Here for the orders

06.10.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.10.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.10.2016 from 262.6% to 272% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.  Click Here for the orders

06.10.2016:

E-JOURNAL OCTOBER 2016 ISSUE:

October 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

05.10.2016:

DEVELOPMENT OF WEB BASED PROGRAM FOR MONITORING MEDICAL CLAIMS OF RETIRED EMPLOYEES - AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF DELAY IN ITS INTRODUCTION:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to Director (HR), BSNL with copy endorsed to CGM, ITPC, Pune regarding the delay in introduction of the web based program that has been developed for monitoring medical claims of retired employees. The Association has pointed out that “We understand that CGM, ITPC, Pune had sent the program for validation of the Corporate Office and had even replied to the queries made on it. But, as we have been told, the Corporate Office is yet to give final green signal for its implementation. In the process, the retired employees continue to face the same problem to know the status of their pending medical claims”. The Association has further sought the intervention of Director (HR) for immediate introduction of the program in all Circles.  View the letter

01.10.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (TELECOM) ABOUT INACTION BY DOT’S VIGILANCE WING TO ISSUE VIGILANCE CLERANCE DELAYING ABSORPTION OF S/SHRI B S PATEL, B I BHATT AND M G MALEK, ALL RETIRED SDEs OF GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has now taken up with Secretary (Telecom) about Inaction by Vigilance Wing of DOT to issue Vigilance clearance in respect of S/Shri B S Patel, Retd SDE, B I Bhatt, Retd SDE and M G Malek, Retd SDE of Gujarat Telecom Circle for their absorption in Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited and requested his intervention in the matter. The Association has pointed out that the STG.II Section of DOT has been requesting the Vigilance Wing since February 2016 to issue the vigilance clearance, but there is no response even to the subsequent reminders by the STG.II Section. The Association has further written that “In view of the above, we request your kind personal intervention in the matter so that the Vigilance Wing issue the vigilance clearance in respect of the above named retired Officers as being repeatedly requested by STG.II Section of DOT which in turn will help to end the mental torture, social stigma and financial hardships of these retired Officers”.  View the letter

30.09.2016:

INCREASE IN IDA W.E.F. 1.10.2016:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers, IDA is to be increased w.e.f. 1.10.2016 by 5.5% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and by 9.4% where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.

30.09.2016:

NO FULL TIME MEMBER FROM DOT IN TELECOM COMMISSION:

Believe it or not, there is no permanent Member in Telecom Commission at this point of time. The posts of Member (Services), Member (Finance) and Member (Technology) are now lying vacant. Even two of the three Advisors posts are vacant. Perhaps, Telecom Commission is fast losing its relevance.

29.09.2016:

MEMBERSHIP AND FORMATION OF AIBSNLREA BRANCH AT JAIPUR:

The General Secretary, AIBSNLREA had some discussions with some retired Executives of Jaipur (Rajasthan), who came to attend the Open Session of the CWC Meet of AIBSNLOA which was held at Jaipur on 26.09.2016, about enrollment of members and formation of a Branch of AIBSNLREA at Jaipur. As per their suggestions, it was decided that Shri K S Sekhawat, Retd CAO (Mob No. 09461300099) will be the convener for the purpose who will now enroll members and finally a branch will be opened. Shri M L Pareek, Retd CAO (Mob No 09414001728) and others will help him in the matter. All retired BSNL Executives at Jaipur are requested to contact Shri Sekhawat.

29.09.2016:

RAIPUR BRANCH (CHATTISGARH STATE) HOLDING GB MEETING:

Raipur Branch (Chattishgarh State) is holding its General Body Meeting to-day at 4.00 PM in Room No. 105, 1st Floor, Microwave Building, Fatadih, Raipur. All retired Executives have been requested to attend the meeting.

29.09.2016:

AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH CONTINUES ITS PERSUATION FOR EARLY IMPLEMENTATION OF PENSION REVISION CASES:

Ever since the Orders on revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA were issued, AIBSNLREA West Bengal State Branch started meeting the Senior Officers and visiting different area Offices. The Association had already met all the CGMs, both the CCAs and other senior Officers to discuss the issue and urging them for its early implementation. A delegation of 6 Executive Committee members including President and State Secretary also visited CGM Project, CE Civil Kolkata, CE Electrical, Chief Architect, Area Manager, Alipore and South offices on 14.09.2016 for ascertaining the progress and interacting with the concerned officers. Again on 21.09.2016, another delegation of 7 Executive Committee members including the State President and State Secretary visited CE Civil, West Bengal, Area Manager (Central), Area Manager (City), Area Manager, Planning and three units under Eastern Telecom Region (ETR). The President and State Secretary accompanied by one Executive Committee member then visited Area Manager Barrackpore on 24.9.2016. Earlier, a team of 15 members led by the State President had visited RTTC, Kalyani Unit. [For full report, please visit West Bengal State Section of State News page of this website]

23.09.2016:

NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM NO. 41/21/2000-P&PW(D) DATED 12.08.2015 FOR ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARDS IN A REVISED FORMAT LINKING AADHAR NUMBERS TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS - AIBSNLREA SEEKS INTERVENTION OF THE SECRETARY (PENSION) ON THE ISSUE:

It has already been reported in this website on 21.09.2016 that BSNL is not inclined to issue the Identity Cards in the revised format linking Aadhar numbers therein and has reverted back to DOT stating that “ As BSNL cannot issue identity cards in the prescribed format on behalf of the Ministry, DOT may take suitable action on the representation of AIBSNLREA.” The Association finds no force to this stand of BSNL and has countered this argument. However, the Association has made it clear to Secretary (Pension) that “ So far, our Association is concerned, we do not want to enter into a debate who is to issue the Cards in the revised format linking Aadhar number. We only request that the Identity Cards be issued in the revised format linking Aadhar number and according to the specifications issued by DOP&PW. We further request you to kindly get your above quoted Office instructions implemented at the earliest in respect of the absorbed BSNL pensioners who are drawing pension from Government under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972”.  View the letter

22.09.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF PARBHANI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

A General Body meeting of Parbhani Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA was held on 4th September, 2016 under the chairmanship of Shri B. L. Deshmukh, Branch Prersident at Hotel Aishwarya, Parbhani. Twelve members attended the meeting in which three new members also joined as life members. The new members were welcomed by Shri A J Jawale, District Secretary and felicitated by the president Shri B L Deshmukh [Please visit State News page of this website and click Maharashtra State Section to read the full report.]

22.09.2016:

UP STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MEETS DY, CCA, UP(EAST) CIRCLE:

The State Secretary along with State Finance Secretary met Dy. CCA, U.P.East Circle on 16.09.2016 and requested to ensure completion of work for revision of pension for which revised pension papers have already been received in CCA office by 30th September 2016. During the discussions, it was stated that the CCA Office had asked for some more information in addition to those contained in the format circulated by BSNL Corporate Office. The Association requested to start the work based on the information already received and call for additional information only in deficient cases. This was agreed to.

21.09.2016:

ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARD TO ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS - BSNL PASSES THE BUCK TO DOT:

Ever since DOP&PW, vide its OM No. 41/21/2000-P&PW(D) dated 12.08.2015, advised all the Ministries/Departments to issue Identity Cards to the pensioners in a revised format and indicating the Aadhar Number therein, AIBSNLREA had been requesting all concerned to get the Identity Cards issued to the absorbed BSNL pensioners, who are drawing pension under CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 from the Government, in the same revised format. The Association had even addressed a letter to the Secretary (Pension) with copy endorsed to Secretary (Telecom) vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/19 dated 18.05.2016 [View posting dated 20.05.2016 in this website]. DOT, as it appears, had advised BSNL to act accordingly. But now BSNL has reverted back to DOT stating that “ As BSNL cannot issue identity cards in the prescribed format on behalf of the Ministry, DOT may take suitable action on the representation of AIBSNLREA.”  View the BSNL letter

20.09.2016:

CLARIFICATION ON THE APPLICABILITY OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON DELINKING OF QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS FOR REVISION OF PENSION TO THE PRE-2006 BSNL PENSIONERS DRAWING IDA PENSION:

Ever since DOP&PW issued its OM No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 06.04.2016 on delinking of qualifying service of 33 years for revision of pension for pre-2006 pensioners, AIBSNLREA had been constantly pursuing with all concerned authorities for its implementation in respect of absorbed BSNL pensioners. On the insistence of AIBSNLREA, DOT and thereafter BSNL also endorsed the said OM to all concerned for its implementation. But in view of some doubts raised by some CCA Offices on its applicability, the OM was not implemented for the absorbed BSNL pensioners. The Association’s representations to the various authorities on this issue were forwarded to DOT and are still pending with DOT for disposal. Meanwhile, it has been informed that in view of the clarifications sought by some CCA Offices including Kerala, Haryana, UP(West), Gujarat etc on the applicability of the OM, the issue is now “under examination in consultation with DOP&PW” in DOT. A clarification on the subject, therefore, is still awaited from DOT.

19.09.2016:

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WEB BASED PROGRAM TO KNOW THE STATUS OF MEDICAL CLAIMS SUBMITTED BY RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – PRESENT STATUS:

It has been informed by the CGM, ITPC, Pune to the Branch Secretary, ABSNLREA, Pune when he spoke to him today, that the validation of the web based program is already over and this will first be implemented in BSNL Corporate Office. Subsequently, it will be extended to other Circles.

19.09.2016:

MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEANCES & PENSION (DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL & TRAINING) FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ON THE ISSUE OF GRANTING ONE NOTIONAL INCREMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF CALCULATION OF PENSION TO THOSE PENSIONERS WHO RETIRE ON THE PREVIOUS DAY OF EARNING THE NEXT INCREMENT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE (MINISTRY OF FINANCE):

AIBSNLREA has been requesting the concerned authorities for some time past for grant of one notional increment for the purpose of calculation of pension to those pensioners who complete full one year’s service on the date of their retirement but cannot earn the annual increment since the date of their annual increment falls on very next day of their retirement. The matter was earlier examined by Department of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance) but it expressed its inability to accede to the request vide its No. 92712/2016-E.III(A) dated 22.06.2016 [View posting dated 26.06.2016] in this website to read the DOE letter]. Following this, the Association again pleaded with DOE to examine the issue afresh by clarifying a few points on which DOE had relied on to turn down the request [View posting dated 13.07.2016 in this website to read the letter]. Now Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pension (Department of Personnel & Training) has forwarded the copy of the said letter of the Association, which was endorsed to DOP&T, to the Department of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance) for ‘taking action as appropriate’.  View the DOPT letter

17.09.2016:

GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE FINALLY ADVISES ITS ALL UNITS TO IMPLEMENT BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE ORDER DATED 05.11.2015 REGARDING SETTLEMENT OF OUTDOOR MEDICAL CLAIMS WITHOUT IMPOSING RESTRICTIONS CITING CGHS RATES:

On the persuasion by AIBSNLREA, Gujarat State Branch, CGMT, BSNL, Gujarat Telecom Circle has finally issued instructions vide its Order dated 02.09.2016 to all its units to comply with the guidelines issued by BSNL Corporate Office in its letter dated 5.11.2015 wherein it ordered not to impose restrictions citing CGHS rates for outdoor medial claims.  View the order

17.09.2016:

DOT NOW ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF A LETTER DATED 07.09.2016 FROM DIR(MOC-PG) ENCLOSING A COPY OF THE REPRESENTATION DATED 24.04.2015 FROM AIBSNLREA REGARDING NON-SETTLEMENT OF LEAVE ENCASHMENT CASES OF S/SHRI C A PATEL, RETD DE AND R DAYAL, RETD SDE, GUJARAT CIRCLE AND FORWARDS THE SAME TO CCA, AHMEDABAD:

One and half year back, AIBSNLREA had written a letter to CMD, BSNL with copy endorsed to DDG(Accounts), DOT regarding non-payment of leave encashment to S/Shri C A Patel, Retd DE and R Dayal, Retd SDE (view posting dated 24.04.2015). Now the PG Cell of DOT acknowledges the receipt of the letter which was marked to DDG(Accounts), DOT and forwards the same to CCA, Ahmedabad. It seems that DOT’s concerned section was in deep sleep for the last one and half year.  View the DOT letter

17.09.2016:

PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE ALSO FORWARDS TO SECRETARY (TELECOM), AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 31.08.2016 ADDRESSED TO THE PRIME MINISTER BRINGING TO HIS NOTICE ABOUT THE CASUAL MANNER IN WHICH DOT TRIED TO CLOSE A GRIEVANCE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW’S OM DATED 06.04.2016 IN RESPECT OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS WHICH WAS LODGED IN CPGRAMS WITHOUT ADDRESSING THE ISSUE:

Prime Minister’s Office has forwarded the AIBSNLREA’ representation dated 31.08.2016 wherein it was brought to the notice of the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India how DOT tried to close a grievance lodged in CPGRAMS about non-implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 to the absorbed BSNL pensioners without addressing the real issue [View posting dated 31.08.2016 in this website to read the representation]. Secretary (Telecom) has been advised to take appropriate action and send reply to the petitioner (AIBSNLREA).  View the PMO letter

16.09.2016:

AIBSNLREA, UP STATE BRANCH MEETS SENIOR OFFICERS IN CIRCLE OFFICE, LUCKNOW:

The State Secretary and other representatives of AIBSNLREA, UP State Branch visited the office of G.M(F), UP(E) Circle Office, Lucknow on 31.08.2016 and discussed about implementation of BSNL Orders dated 18.07.2016 since some units were refusing to calculate fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA referring to a format attached for pre-2007 pensioners on the plea that this was to be calculated by the disbursing offices i.e Post office/Banks. The issue was discussed and the units were instructed to calculate and send the papers to the CCA Office. The Lucknow Branch Secretary Shri S P Singh accompanied by S/Shri Radhey Shyam, Org Secretary and A.K.Srivastava, CWC Member also visited GM TD Office, Lucknow on 07.09.2016 and met the DGM(F) to discuss about implementation of the Corporate Office Order for revision of pension. The representatives were informed that the work is in progress and likely to be completed by 30.09.2016.

16.09.2016:

DOT ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 31.08.2016 ADDRESSED TO THE PRIME MINISTER BRINGING TO HIS NOTICE ABOUT THE CASUAL MANNER IN WHICH DOT TRIED TO CLOSE A GRIEVANCE LODGED IN CPGRAMS WITHOUT ADDRESSING THE ISSUE:

AIBSNLREA had earlier addressed a letter to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India bringing to his notice about the casual manner in which DOT sought to close the grievance lodged in CPGRAMS about non-implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 to the absorbed BSNL pensioners [View posting dated 31.08.2016 in this website to read the letter]. DOT has now acknowledged the receipt of the said representation and forwarded the same to Ms Simmi Nakara, DDG(Accounts), DOT and Shri S K Jain, DDG(Estt), DOT for appropriate remedial action.  View the letter

13.09.2016:

FORMATION OF A NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA IN MANDI SSA OF HIMACHAL PRADESH:

A meeting of the retired executives of Mandi SSA was held on 07.09.2016 at Sundernagar, Mandi SSA. S/Shri Hari Krishan, Secretary, AIBSNLREA, Shimla and G.S Negi, Retd DGM from Shimla attended the said meeting. The members discussed about the issues concerning the BSNL pensioners. Shri Hari Krishan apprised the house about the activities of the Association at Central and State level. It was then decided to form a new branch of AIBSNLREA in Mandi SSA and the following office bearers were elected unanimously to represent the branch: President:- Shri M.G Tandon, Retd CAO, Vice President:- Shri Mast Ram, Retd DE, Secretary:- Shri Shakti Chand Suman, Retd SDE, Assistant Secretary:- Shri Partap Singh, Retd SDE, Organising Secretary:- Shri Fateh Chand, Retd DE, Finance Secretary:- Shri Mansa Ram, Retd DE, Executive Members:- S/Shri Pamod Kumar, Retd JTO, Yog Raj, Retd JTO and Sunder Lal, Retd JTO.  View the news in Press

12.09.2016:

BSNL NOW ISSUES DETAILED GUIDELINES TO DEAL WITH THE CASES FOR WAIVER OF EXCESS/WRONGFUL PAYMENTS MADE TO THE EMPLOYEES OF BSNL – AIBSNLREA’S INITIATIVE BRINGS RESULTS:

In the background of the DOP&T OM dated 2.3.2016 that was issued following Supreme Court judgment in which it declared recovery of excess/wrongful payments in certain specific cases impermissible in law, AIBSNLREA took up the matter with Secretary, DOP&T and others including CMD, BSNL for its implementation in BSNL. AIBSNLREA cited the case of Shri R Damodaran, Retired SDE and Branch Secretary of AIBSNLREA’s Coimbatore Branch from whom over Rs 80,000/- was recovered on the eve of his retirement after 12 years of making the payment [View posting dated 31.08.2016 in this website to read the letter]. DOP&PW had also forwarded the copy of our representation to DOT vide No. DOPPW/P/2016/03851 dated 2.9.2016 [View posting dated 9.9.2016 in this website to read the DOP&PW letter]. Now, in the light of said DOP&T OM dated 2.3.2016, BSNL has issued detailed guidelines to deal with the cases for excess/wrongful payments to the employees of BSNL. The CGMs will examine such cases and send the same to BSNL Corporate Office for further processing these cases which finally will have to have the approval of DOE. Thus another initiative of AIBSNLREA brings positive result.  View the BSNL order

12.09.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, CHENNAI HELD:

A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Chennai was held on 7-9-2016 at Hotel Kanchi. The meeting started at 10 AM and was presided over by Sri. V. Dakshinamoorthy, President. After formal prayer, in his welcome address, he welcomed all the comrades and congratulated comrades S/Sri V.Chinna pappiah and S.Rathnasubramanian on their election as CHQ president and Assistant General Secretary, CHQ, respectively. He also expressed his happiness in the growth of the membership of the branch. After self introduction of members, Secretary Shri L. Sundararaman read out a very detailed report about the AIC held at Bhubaneswar, 78.2% Fixation and revision of pension, adding 3% of the existing pay for fixation on promotion of executives after 1.1.2007 and constitution of 3rd PRC. He also informed the members about the meeting with CGMs / GMs (Fin) of Chennai Telephones and Tamilnadu circle, Joint CCA and CCA and the discussions held on fitment benefit by merger of 78.2 % IDA, 3% fixation on promotion, rounding off fraction to next higher rupee for fixation of pension and full pension for those retired without completing 33 years of qualifying service etc. He also thanked all office bearers and the members for bringing more and more new members to the branch [For full report of the GB Meeting, please go to ‘State News’ page on the top of the site and click Tamilnadu section].

11.09.2016:

DOT REPLIES TO AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATIONS ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OFFER MADE TO THE GROUP C OFFICIALS OF DOT TO ALLOW THE BENEFIT OF OPTION TO RETAIN CDA PAY SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER AFTER THEIR ABSORPTION IN BSNL:

AIBSNLREA had made several representations on the above issue. The Association had also represented to the President of India on the same issue. Now DOT has sent a reply on this representation. DOT has stated that the matter is under consideration of DOP&PW which has requested to furnish some more information. The same is awaited from BSNL.  View the DoT letter

09.09.2016:

PROBLEMS BEING FACED BY THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS DUE TO NON-EXTENSION OF INTENDED BENEFITS IN VARIOUS DOP&PW OM REVISING THE PROIVISIONS REGULATING PENSION AND PENSIONARY BENEFITS – AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE WITH SECRETARY (PENSION):

AIBSNLREA has since written a letter to Secretary (Pension) highlighting the problem being faced by the absorbed BSNL pensioners due to non-extension of intended benefits as contained in the OMs issued by DOP&PW revising the provisions regulating pension/pensionary benefits to the absorbed BSNL pensioners. The Association cites the case of recent Order on delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years in respect of pre-2006 pensioners in which the CCA Offices of DOT are not implementing the same doubting its applicability for the absorbed BSNL pensioners. To overcome the problem, the Association has requested that:- (1) DOP&PW immediately advise DOT to extend the benefit of DOP&PW OM No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 06.04.2016, as mentioned at Para 2 above, to the concerned absorbed BSNL pensioners, and (2) There should be a mention in all future OMs to be issued by DOP&PW revising the provisions regulating pension that the same is applicable in case of the absorbed BSNL pensioners covered under Rule-37-A of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.  View the letter

09.09.2016:

DOP&PW FORWARDS REPRESENTATION OF AIBSNLREA DATED 29.08.2016 ADRESSED TO SECRETARY, DOP&T AND COPY ENDORSED TO OTHERS ON THE ISSUE OF REFUND OF AMOUNT RECOVERED FROM THE BSNL EXECUTIVES WHO ON THEIR ABSORPTION IN BSNL OPTED FOR FIXATION OF PAY IN THE PROMOTED SCALE FROM THE DATE OF THEIR NEXT INCREMENT IN THE LOWER SCALE:

AIBSNLREA had earlier represented to Secretary, DOP&T with copy endorsed to other concerned Secretaries including DOP&PW for refund of the recovery made from the BSNL executives who opted for fixation of pay in their promoted scale from the date of their next increment in the lower scale. This representation was made in the background of DOP&T Order advising the Ministries/Departments to deal with the issue of wrongful/excess payments made to Government servants in accordance with the decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court which made recovery from the employees impermissible in law in certain specific cases (view posting dated 31.08.2016 to read the letter). Now DOP&PW has forwarded the said representation to DOT to examine the issues as per extant rules/orders and inform the Association.  View the DoP&PW letter

08.09.2016:

DOT FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF CLARIFICATION REGARDING CALCULATION OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION BY APPLYING OLD OR NEW COMMUTATION TABLE IN RESPECT OF BSNL IDA PAY SCALE TO THE POST-2007 PENSIONERS BY CCA, ODISHA CIRCLE – CASE OF SHRI DEODHARI LAL DAS, RETD AGM, ODIDHA TELECOM CIRCLE TO THE CCA, ODISHA:

AIBSNLREA had earlier taken up with DOT the case of Shri Deodhari Lal Das, Retd AGM, Odisha Circle whose representation for implementation of DOT Order clarifying the position regarding calculation of commuted value of pension by applying old or new commutation table to the post-2007 BSNL pensioners was not being addressed by CCA, Odisha Circle (view posting dated 14.07.2016 in this website to read the letter). Department of Telecommunications has now forwarded the said AIBSNLREA’s letter on the above issue to the CCA, Odisha Circle for appropriate action under intimation to the Pension Section of DOT.  View the DoT letter

08.09.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD, BSNL FOR IMMEDIATE WITHDRAWAL OF BSNL ORDER FOR DEMANDING ADVANCE RENT FROM BSNL PERNSIONERS STAYING IN INSPECTION QUARTERS:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to CMD, BSNL requesting him for immediate withdrawal of the Order No. BSNL/Admn(IQ)/23-10/2015 dated 23/26th August 2016 on provision of Advance rent from visitors staying in IQ which includes retired BSNL Officers. AIBSNLREA has protested against the discriminatory treatment meted out to the retired BSNL Officers and the tendency in BSNL to disown the Officers once they retire from service.  View the letter

07.09.2016:

AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL HELD SEPARATE DISCUSSIONS WITH CCA, WEST BENGAL, CCA, KOLKATA AND GM (FINANCE), WEST BENGAL:

(1) Discussions with CCA, West Bengal: A delegation from AIBSNLREA, West Bengal comprising of S/Shri S.R.Palit, S.K.Maitra, S.C.Ray and N.H.Siddique met the CCA West Bengal Sri Abhay Singh and other officers on 05.09.2016. The CCA informed that, as demanded earlier by the Association, he had already withdrawn the instruction issued to supply the Aadhaar Number/PAN Number also for revision of Pension and also communicated the same to the concerned CGMs. He also informed that except Berhampore SSA, no other unit could send revision cases till date. He assured that his Office is all set to dispose of pension revision cases as soon as these would be received from the BSNL units. For pre-2007 cases only the filled up proforma countersigned by the Pension Sanction Authority will be sufficient, but for the Post 2007 cases, filled up proforma along with Service Book will have to be forwarded to the CCA Office for further action. Association’s demand for holding of Pension Adalat on regular basis was also accepted by the CCA. The delegation also discussed other issues including de-linking of qualifying service for full Pension and some personal cases. The discussion was positive and most cordial.
(2) Discussions with CCA, Kolkata Telephones: Thereafter, S/Shri S.R.Palt, S.K.Maitra, S.C.Ray and K.C.Dey from AIBSNLREA, West Bengal met CCA Kolkata Telephones Sri Turwar. The association representatives urged for early implementation of Pension revision cases, inclusion of Date of Birth of Spouse in the PPOs, refund of Rs.1000/- deducted earlier from DCRG of the pensioners, de-linking of qualifying service of 33 years for full Pension, Pending deferred Option cases etc. The CCA gave patience hearing to the Association and assured to take prompt action in all the issues including revision of Pension. He requested the Association representatives to meet the Head of Offices of Kolkata Telephones and seek their intervention for sending Pension Revision Cases in lots so that CCA office could complete the whole Process by 31st December, 2016.
(3) Discussions with GM (Finance), West Bengal Circle: The delegation from AIBSNLREA, West Bengal also met GM Finance Smt. Rupa Palchaudhuri on the same day at WB Circle Office. The association representatives informed the GM(F) that there had been no progress in any of the units under WB Circle except Berhampore SSA for revision of pension. The GM(F) on immediately contacted some IFAs of the SSAs and instructed them to take up the Pension Revision work on priority basis. She assured that she would monitor the progress periodically and try to complete the work within the target date.

06.09.2016:

E-JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2016 ISSUE:

September 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

05.09.2016:

BSNL NOW RESPONDS TO THE ISSUE OF MEDICAL FACILITY AS TAKEN UP BY AIBSNLREA THROUGH ITS AIC RESOLUTIONS WITH PRIME MINISTER AND OTHERS:

We reported earlier in this website (view posting dated 08.08.2016) that Prime Minister’s Office had posted in the CPGRAMS the main resolutions adopted in the AIC of AIBSNLREA held at Bhubaneswar on the ongoing problems being faced by the absorbed BSNL pensioners – particularly the retired executives. These grievances in the form of resolutions were earlier sent to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the concerned Ministers and CMD,BSNL [View posting dated 19.07.2016 in this website for the resolutions]. We also reported about BSNL’s response on few of the grievances pertaining to it. Now BSNL Corporate Office has again responded on other grievances related to Medical facility vide its letter No BSNL/Ad,n.I/30-5/15 dated 31.08.2016.  View the letter

04.09.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI MEET CCA TAMILNADU:

Shri V.Dakshinamoorthy, President, Shri L.Sundararaman, Secretary and Shri R.R.Balasubramanian, Asst. Secretary met the new CCA Tamilnadu Circle, who had joined only recently, on 1.9.2016 and requested his intervention in implementation of DoT/BSNL orders on notional increment of 3% for pay fixation on promotion in respect of BSNL Executives along with pension revision with 78.2% fitment benefit for BSNL pensioners who retired between 1.1.2007 and 9.6.2013. The office bearers of Chennai Branch explained in detail about the issue and the CCA assured that he will get the issue resolved in a few days. He also agreed to implement orders on rounding off pension to the next higher rupee simultaneously. He said that representations received in respect of delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years, are being processed. The office bearers also offered to provide secretarial assistance for completing the job of pension revision at the earliest.

03.09.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, GHAZIABAD HELD:

A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Ghaziabad was held on 28.08.2016 to elect a new body. Earlier, on August 15, 2016 a meeting of the officer bearers of AIBSNLREA was held at ALTTC campus with Shri Sham Lal in the chair. Two minutes silence was first observed in memory of those members and office bearers of the association who departed during the intervening period. Thereafter discussion was held on various issues being faced by the pensioners at the local level. It was also decided in the meeting to launch a membership drive amongst those retired personnel, who had not taken membership of the association and thereafter to hold the General Body meeting on 28th August, 2016 to form a new body. Accordingly a drive was launched and a sizeable number of retired executives were enrolled as members. The general body meeting was held on 28th August 2016 as scheduled in which old body was dissolved and elections for the formation of new body were held. The following office bearers were unanimously elected.  View the List of Office bearers

02.09.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL REGARDING NON-MENTION OF “ONE TIME CONTRIBUTION” IN DOT’S LETTER DATED 31.08.2016 ON EXTENSION OF CGHS FACILITY TO THE RETIRED BSNL/MTNL EMPLOYEES:

AIBSNLREA has written a letter to Director (HR), BSNL that non-mention of “one time contribution” to be made by retired BSNL employees who may opt for CGHS facility in DOT’s letter No. 4-12(11)/2012-PAT (Part) dated 31.08.2016 might create another confusion. The Association has also pointed out that earlier BSNL in its letter No. BSNL/Admn.I/14-15/09(pt) dated 29.07.2016 had stated that BSNL would reimburse the ‘one time contribution’ to be made by the retired BSNL employees opting for CGHS facility. The Association has further requested Director (HR) to take up the issue with DOT.  View the letter

02.09.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, KALYAN BRANCH MET PGMT, KALYAN:

Representatives of newly formed Kalyan Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA comprising of S/Shri B M Hatwar, Branch Secretary, B W Patil, Asst. Branch Secretary, L B Gupta, Branch Finance Secretary and M P Ashtekar met PGMT, Kalyan at 13.00 hours on 01.09.2016. They discussed about some local issues. The PGMT also responded positively and assured all the possible help to the Association.

01.09.2016:

DOP&PW CIRCULATES GAZETTE NOTIFICATION DATED 5TH AUGUST, 2016 CARRYING RESOLUTION ON REVISED PROVISIONS REGARDING PENSIONARY BENEFITS:

Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare has since circulated the Gazette Notification dated 5th August, 2016 which carries the Resolution on revised provisions regarding pensionary benefits which are effective from 1.1.2016. This follows the decision taken by the Government on the various recommendations made by Seventh Central Pay Commission about revision of pensionary benefits.  View the Resolution

01.09.2016:

AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA (WEST VIDARBHA REGION ) HELD ITS FIRST DIVISIONAL CONFERENCE:

The First Divisional Conference of AIBSNLREA, West Vidarbha Region - Amravati branch was held on Sunday, the 28th August, 2016 at Hotel Shripad Continental , Morshi Road , Amravati under the Chairmanship of Shri V.P. Agrawal, President of the Branch. The meeting was attended by 45 members & 2 new members joined the association. The house welcomed all of them. Shri P R Bhujbal Vice President AIBSNLREA CHQ New Delhi and Shri N.G. Talewar, Vice-President, AIBSNLREA, Maharashtra State attended the meeting as Special Guests. The DGM, BSNL, Amravati and IFA, BSNL Amravati graced the function as a Chief Guests….. [For full Report, please click State News Page on the top of main page and visit Maharashtra State]

31.08.2016:

DOT ISSUES ORDERS CIRCULATING THE WARD ENTITLEMENT AND CORRESPONDING CDA SCALES AND GRADE PAY FOR BSNL/MTNL RETIRED EMPLOYEES TO AVAIL CGHS FACILITY:

Department of Telecommunications, in a letter addressed to all CCAs and copy endorsed to others, has indicated the ward entitlement and equivalent CDA pay scales/Grade Pay for all BSNL/MTNL retired employees opting to avail the CGHS facility. This takes care most of the issues that AIBSNLREA had raised in its representation dated 4.8.2016 with Director (HR), BSNL [view posting dated 5.8.2016 in this website], following issue of BSNL Order dated 29.07.2016 [view posting dated 03.08.2016 in this website] extending the CGHS facility to retired BSNL employees.  View the DoT letter

31.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA ABOUT CAUSAL HANDLING OF THE GRIEVANCES LODGED IN CPGRAMS BY DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS – CITES THE CASE OF GRIEVANCE LODGED REGARDING NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON DELINKING OF 33 YEARS QUALIFYING SERVICE FOR PENSION REVISION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India bringing to his notice about the casual manner in which DOT has sought to close the grievance lodged in CPGRAMS about non-implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 to the absorbed BSNL pensioners. DOT has tried to close the case by stating that the DOP&PW OM in question has been endorsed by it and avoided to address the actual grievance. The Association writes “In view of the above, we appeal to the Hon’ble Prime Minister to kindly intervene in this matter so that our grievance about non-implementation of the DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 to the absorbed BSNL pensioners in the present case is redressed and Department of Telecommunication never takes the Government’s Grievance Redress mechanism so casually”.  View the letter

31.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP WITH DOPT THE ISSUE OF REFUND OF AMOUNT RECOVERED FROM THE BSNL EXECUTIVES WHO ON THEIR ABSORPTION IN BSNL OPTED FOR FIXATION OF PAY IN THE PROMOTED SCALE FROM THE DATE OF THEIR NEXT INCREMENT IN THE LOWER SCALE:

Following issue of DOPT Order, on the basis of a Supreme Court judgment which made recovery from the employees in certain specific situations impermissible in law, advising the Ministries/Departments to deal with the issue of wrongful/excess payments made to Government servants in accordance with the said decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court, AIBSNLREA has taken up the cases for refund of recovered amount in one of the specific situations. As per a clarification issued by DOT on a later date, BSNL had made recovery from some BSNL Executives who opted for fixation of pay in their promoted scale from the date of their next increment in the lower scale. AIBSNLREA has demanded refund of the recovered amount.  View the letter

30.08.2016:

DOP&PW FORWARDS OUR AIC RESOLUTIONS TO DOT:

As we reported earlier in this website on 08.08.2016 that BSNL has started responding to some of the resolutions adopted in the AIC held at Bhubaneswar [View posting dated 19.07.2016 for the resolutions] and sent to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, concerned Ministers and CMD, BSNL. BSNL’s response came since PMO posted our representation enclosing the resolutions in CPGRAMS. Now DOP&PW has also forwarded the same resolutions to Department of Telecommunications to examine the issues and inform the Association accordingly.  View the DoP&PW letter

30.08.2016:

DOT ENDORSES DOP&PW ORDER F NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(i) DATED 04.08.2016 ON IMPLEMENTATION OF GOVERNMENT’S DECISION ON THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE SEVENTH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION – REVISION OF PROVISIONS REGULATING PENSION/GRATUITY/COMMUTATION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION/DISABILITY PENSION/EX-GRATIA LUMP SUM COMPENSATION ETC :

Department of Telecommunication, vide its No. 36-02/2016-Pen(T)(i) dated 22.08.2016, has since endorsed the Order issued by Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, vide F.No. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(i) dated 04.08.2016, for implementation of Government’s decision on the recommendations of seventh Central Pay Commission regarding revision of provisions regulating pension/gratuity/commutation of pension/family pension/disability pension/ex-gratia lump sum compensation etc. It may be pointed out that the recommendation of the 7th CPC on gratuity which has duly been accepted by the Government is totally in the line of AIBSNLREA’s memorandum submitted to the Seventh Central Pay Commission.  View the orders

28.08.2016:

BSNL RETIRED EXECUTIVES ARE NOW REQUIRED TO PAY RENT FOR STAY IN INSPECTION QUARTERS, IN ADVANCE:

BSNL has issued orders providing for advance rent from Retired officers of BSNL, MTNL/DOT and other Govt./PSU officers on official visit, for stay in the Inspection Quarters.  View the letter

28.08.2016:

OFFERS OF DISCOUNT ON MEDICINES BY APOLLO PHARMACY:

BSNL Coporate Office has circulated offers from Apollo Pharmacy unit of Apollo Hospital Enterprises, allowing discount of 12% on Pharma Products, 5% on FMCG products and 15% on PL (Apollo Pharmacy) products, sold from their outless across the country, to BSNL Employee and BSNL Pensioners.  View the letter

27.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA’s REPRESENTATION REGARDING NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS IN RESPECT OF ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS IS NOW UNDER PROCESS IN DOT:

Yesterday, it was reported in this website that Telecom Accounts Branch of Department of Telecommunications has forwarded AIBSNLREA’s letter dated 20.07.2007 on the above issue which was addressed to DDG(Estt), DOT and copy endorsed to DDG(Accounts) to the Director (Estt), DOT for necessary action. Earlier, we had reported in this website on 04.08.2016 that DOP&PW forwarded the copy of the same letter to DDG(PG), DOT to examine the issue and inform the Association suitably. Now DOT has stated that the matter is “under process”.

26.08.2016:

TELECOM ACCOUNTS BRANCH OF DOT FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S LETTER REGARDING NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOPP&W OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS IN THE CASES OF BSNL PENSIONERS TO THE DIRECTOR (ESTT), DOT:

Telecom Accounts Branch of Department of Telecommunications has since forwarded AIBSNLREA’s letter dated 20.07.2007 on the above issue which was addressed to DDG(Estt), DOT and copy was endorsed to others including DDG( Accounts). The ADG(DCA) of Telecom Accounts Branch in his forwarding letter, vide UO No. 7-1/2013/TA-I/part II/3742 & 3743 dated 10.08.2016, has stated that “As the matter is regarding Revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners-delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years pertain to Pen(T) Section of DoT HQ, New Delhi and Director(Estt) being the nodal officer to deal with such cases, the case is being forwarded for further necessary action.”  View the letter

26.08.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH MET CGM, TELECOM FACTORY:

Representatives of West Bengal State Branch of AIBSNLREA comprising of S/Shri S K Maitra, S R Palit and S C Roy met CGM(TF) Kolkata Sri Apurba Kundu on 23rd August, 2016. They discussed mainly on implementation of Pension Revision Orders for BSNL Pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2013. The CGM appreciated the suggestions made by the Association and assured timely completion of the job before the target date.

25.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS & PUBLIC GRIEVANCE REGARDING NON-ISSUE OF PRESIDENTIAL ORDERS FOR ABSORPTION IN BSNL IN RESPECT OF THREE RETIRED SDEs OF GUJARAT CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has addressed Secretary, Deptt of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievance about undue delay in issuing Presidential Orders for absorption in respect of S/Shri B S Patel, B I Bhatt and M G Malek despite settlement of their vigilance cases and the Circle administration issuing the vigilance clearance. The Association has pointed out to the indifferent attitude of DOT which is not responding to numerous representation and also the reminders issued by BSNL. The Association has further requested his personal intervention in the matter.  View the letter

25.08.2016:

PUNE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MET CGM, ITPC, PUNE:

S/Shri B B Controllu, Branch Secretary and P.C.Dubey, Organizing Secretary of AIBSNLREA, Pune Branch met Shri Prabash Singh, CGMT, ITPC in his Office at 4.00 pm on 24.08.2016 and discussed about early implementation of BSNL’s letter dated 10.08.2016 for introduction of the web based program to know the status of medical claim bills. He informed that the program is in the final stage for conducting trial and expected to be ready by 1st September 2016. This will be implemented in Maharashtra Circle on trial basis to find the deficiencies, if any. This will gradually be implemented in other Circles.

25.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA, SHIMLA BRANCH MET CGMT, H.P.CIRCLE:

Representatives of Shimla Branch of AIBSNLREA comprising of Shri S R Sharma, Branch President, Shri Hari Krishan, Branch Secretary and Shri G S Negi, Shri R P Gupta met CGMT, Himachal Pradesh Circle Shri S K Gupta on 08.08.2016 and requested him to expedite implementation of BSNL Orders on extending the fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA for revision of pension of pre 10.06.2013 BSNL pensioners, pay fixation with 3% increment w.e.f. 01.01.2007 on actual basis to the executives. They also raised the issue of delay in settling the medical claims of the pensioners. The CGMT advised the DGM (Admn) to take immediate action on these. The delegation later met Shri DGM(Admn) and Shri D K Verma, DGM(Finance) separately and discussed the same issues.

25.08.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA, PUNE BRANCH MET PGMT, PUNE :

The office bearers of AIBSNLREA, Pune Branch met PGMT, Pune Shri P.K.Hota on 1st August 2016 and submitted a letter requesting to expedite preparation of pension revision papers with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA. He immediately conveyed GM (F) Shri Mahawar to do the needful and asked us to meet him. The GM (Finance) assured the representatives of the Association that the work will be started soon and be completed within a couple of months.

24.08.2016:

NON-SETTLEMENT OF PAY ANOMALY CASE OF SHRI PAWAN KUMAR JINDAL, RETD DET, SANGRUR – AIBSNLEA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL:

AIBSNLREA has taken up the issue of non-settlement of pay anomaly case of Shri Pawan Kumar Jindal, Retd DE of Sangrur SSA, Punjab Telecom Circle whose numerous representations have since yielded no result. The Association has urged Director (HR) to intervene in the case and call for a report from Punjab Telecom Circle to settle the issue.  View letter

22.08.2016:

PR CCA, AHMEDABAD TO HOLD PENSION ADALAT AT SURAT:

A Pension Adalat is being held at Surat for the retired DOT and BSNL employees of Bharuch, Surat and Valsad SSAs of Gujarat Telecom Circle. For details, the Notification issued by CCA, Ahmedabad may be viewed  View Notification

22.08.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH MET SR. GMTD, NAGPUR:

S/Shri U B Nikose President, V W Patil, Vice President, B D Nikam, Vice president, Arun Deshpande, Branch Secretary, N R Rachkondawar Asst Secretaty, Bhola Kamble Asst Secretary, B P Majumdar, Finance Secretary of AIBSNLREA, Nagpur Branch, accompanied by Shri P R Bhujbal CHQ Vice President met Smt Namrata Tiwari, Sr GMTD Nagpur on 20-08-2016. Shri Nikose, Branch President presented a bouquet to her. The Association submitted a letter to Sr GMTD requesting for early compliance of DOT/BSNL orders regarding allowing the fitment benefit by merger of 78.2%DA to the BSNL pensioners/family pensioners, who retired before 10-06-2013, within the targeted date ie 31-12-2016. Sr GMTD Nagpur informed the representatives that they have already taken action and initiated the process of consolidation of pension/family pension to the IDA pensioners who retired prior to 10-06-2013. Discussion was also held on the issue of payment of pending medical bills of BSNL pensioners. GMTD assured to look into this matter.

20.08.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH HELD SEPARATE MEETINGS WITH CGM (ETR), GM (ETR) AND GM (HR/ADMN), CTD:

Representatives of AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch comprising of S/Shri S.R.Palit, S.C.Roy, N.H.Siddique and K.C.Dey met Shri G C Shrivastava, CGM, Eastern Telecom Region and Shri Anupam Maji, GM (ETR) on 18.08.2016. There was a fruitful discussion on the issues like revision of pension and settlement of medical reimbursement cases. The CGM assured the Association representatives that the revision of pension cases would be taken up on priority basis to complete well before the target date. The representatives also met Shri P.K.Mahapatra, GM(HR/Admin), Calcutta Telephones and discussed about early implementation of DOT Order on revision of Pension/Family Pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA, incorporation of missing cases of Date of Birth of spouses in the PPO books, ensuring implementation of BSNL Order on 3% increment issue for pay fixation on promotion for the executives promoted after 01.01.2007. The association also suggested to evolve a mechanism for periodical monitoring of the progress to ensure early implementation of the Orders on these issues. GM(HR) agreed to consider the same and instructed the AGM(Staff) to issue guidelines to Area Offices based on the BSNL order dated 17.08.2016 regarding revision of pension. Cases of delayed payment of Medical Bills was also discussed in the meeting. The Association insisted for clearance of the backlog immediately and also requested to maintain one month's time frame to clear all the bills as per Corporate Office guidelines. GM(HR) also informed that efforts were being made to enter into agreement with number of Hospitals/Nursing Homes for indoor treatment at CGHS rates.

19.08.2016:

A NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED IN KALYAN, MAHARASHTRA:

A new Branch of AIBSNLREA has been formed in Kalyan, Maharashtra. Thirty six (36) members have now joined the Association as its Life Members. The new Branch has the following as the Office Bearers:- (1) President: Shri D R Shukla, (2) Vice President: Shri K J Gupta, (3) Branch Secretary: Shri B M Hatwar, (4) Assistant Branch Secretary: Shri B W Patil, (5) Finance Secretary: Shri L B Gupta. AIBSNLREA family welcomes all the new members.

18.08.2016:

BSNL ISSUES DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS FOR REVISION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013 WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% IDA:

After endorsing the DOT OM No. 40-13/2013-Pen (T) dated 18.07.2016 for revision of pension/family pension of the BSNL pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2013, vide its No. 40-06/2011-Pen(B)(Pt) dated 26.07.2016, BSNL has now issued detailed instructions for consolidation of the pension/family pension of the concerned BSNL pensioners/family pensioners and send the same to the concerned CCA. BSNL has also specifically instructed that while calculating the pay notionally in case of BSNL IDA pensioners/family pensioners, who retired between 01.01.2007 and 09.06.2013, it should be ensured to grant notional increment @3% of the existing basic pay for fixation of pay in promotion with effect from 01.01.2007, as clarified by BSNL Corporate Office vide its No. 1-05/2015-PAT(BSNL) dated 4.4.2016, in case same was not granted earlier. This takes care of our initiative to get the said benefit extended to the affected retired executives before pension revision. But the cases of those who retired after 9.6.2013 need to be followed up.  View BSNL order

18.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL FOR SPARING SOME TIME TO ENABLE THE ASSOCIATION TO PRESENT A FEW IMPORTANT ISSUES:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Director (HR), BSNL enclosing a brief on seven important issues and requesting her to spare some time to enable the Association to present the cases. The issues are :- (1) Issue of Identity Cards to the BSNL Pensioners as per format issued by DOP&PW by linking Aaadhar Card, (2) Sanction of mobile connection in lieu of concessional residential landline connection to the retired BSNL employees, (3) Raising the free call limit in concessional residential landline connection to the retired BSNL employees, (4) Extension of concessional Broadband facility to the retired BSNL employees residing in MTNL areas, (5) Restoration of benefit of medical allowance for outdoor treatment without voucher to the retired BSNL employees, (6) Problems faced by the retired BSNL employees in getting their claims for reimbursement of medical bills settled on time and (7) Abnormal delay in issue of Presidential Orders for absorption of the retired Executives on finalization of their disciplinary/vigilance cases.  View the letter

17.08.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH MEET JOINT CCA, TAMILNADU CIRCLE:

S/Shri V.Dakshinamoorthy President and R.R.Balasubramanian, Asst. Secretary of AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch along with CHQ President Shri V.Chinnapappiah and AGS Shri S.Ratnasubramanian met Jt.CCA (Pension), Tamilnadu Circle today and discussed about rectification of the old revised Pension Payment Orders in which fraction of a rupee was not rounded off to the next higher rupee and also to ensure that the provision for rounding off a fraction of a rupee to the next higher rupee is followed when pension is revised as per DoT order dated 15.7.2016 simultaneously with re-fixation of pay with notional increment of 3% for pay fixation on promotion for Executives retired after 1.1.2007. They also requested early disposal of representations of both pre-2006 DoT Pensioners and pre-2006 absorbed BSNL Pensioners for implementing the decision of DoP&PW that “the revised consolidated pension of the pre-2006 pensioners shall not be lower than 50% of the minimum of the pay in the Pay Band and the grade pay (wherever applicable) corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale as per fitment table without pro-rata reduction of pension even if they had qualifying service of less than 33 years at the time of retirement.” Copies of a few representations were also handed over to him. Jt.CCA heard the arguments with patience and assured to consider the representations in due course. In respect of “notional increment of 3%” he said a decision had been taken earlier but he could not recollect what the decision was. He was requested to convey the decision so that AIBSNLREA can take up with concerned authorities if required. He agreed to do so in a day or two.

15.08.2016:

DOT REJECTS BSNL’S PROPOSAL FOR GRANT OF REPLACEMENT SCALES FOR PRE-REVISED E1A, E2A PAY SCALES FOR JTOs, SDEs & EQUIVALENT CADRES AND UPGRADATION OF E3, E4, E5 & E6 SCALES W. E. F. 1.1.2007:

We had earlier reported in this website that BSNL, which failed to settle the revised pay scales of JTOs, SDEs and equivalent cadres for long 10 years following the II PRC recommendations on revised pay scales, has sent a proposal to DOT for replacement of their existing provisional E-1A and E-2A scales by E-2 and E-3 scales respectively and also upgrade E-3, E-4, E-5 and E-6 pay scales for others. Now DOT has rejected the proposal, vide its letter No. 61-2/2016-SU dated 09.08.2016, stating that financial position of BSNL is now in bad shape and the proposal will have huge financial burden on Government exchequer in the shape of revised pensionary benefits and recurring burden on pension. Can DOT reply how it could take the liability to pay pension to the MTNL Employees retrospectively w.e.f. 1.10.2000 with one stage higher pay scales than the BSNL Executives and in violation of the already settled terms and conditions of service for absorption ? Did it not have any financial burden on Government exchequer?  View the DOT letter

11.08.2016:

JUST PRESS A BUTTON - GET YOUR PENSION REVISION CALCULATIONS IN DETAIL:

There has been enormous response to our calculator (Excel worksheet) on 'BSNL PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED FROM 1.1.2007 TO 9.6.2013 - WHAT THEY GET AND WHAT THEY LOSE', which has registered more than 8000 downloads since it was uploaded a week ago. While no one has reported about any difficulty in working with the worksheet, some have informed us that they are waiting to know the accuracy of the calculator when the arrears are actualy paid. We can say with pride that our calculator results are most accurate with correct formulae used at every step. However as we were aware that there are many who do not feel at ease with working with excel sheets, need for a more user-friendly calculator was felt. Shri R.R.Balasubramanian has now got developed a software to calculate the "Arrears Lost - Arrears to Get" in respect of the BSNL Pensioners who retired from 1.1.2007 to 9.6.2013 after repeated testing and modifications for accuracy. This software gives all the details after giving the required inputs using drop down menus and just pressing the 'Submit' button. This software will be uploaded shortly.

10.08.2016:

BSNL ISSUES ORDERS ADVISING THE CGMs TO TAKE CERTAIN ACTIONS TO REMOVE SOME DIFFICULTIES FACED BY THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES IN REGARD TO BSNLMRS:

BSNL Corporate Office has since issued orders advising all the CGMs to settle all medical claims of the retired employees within one month from the date of receipt of the same, empanel sufficient number of CGHS approved hospitals preferably on cashless basis or to ensure that services are extended on CGHS rates on cash payment, status of claims of retired employees be informed to them whenever sought etc. In a separate letter, the BSNL Corporate Office has advised CGM, ITPC to implement one web-based program for knowing the status of the medical claims of the retired employees in one circle so that the deficiencies noticed can be removed once it is made operational. It may be recalled that the Orders already exist for settlement of medical claims for indoor treatment within one month of their receipt. But hardly, this is being followed. However, there was no such fixed time limit for settlement of medical claims for outdoor treatment and we had been requesting BSNL Corporate Office for similar order, as in the case of indoor treatment, in respect of claims for outdoor treatment. Empanelment of more cashless hospitals will be helpful provided BSNL Corporate Office sanctions adequate fund to clear the bills preferred by such hospitals on time. Otherwise, the hospitals will not extend the benefit as at present. Without online tracking system, there is no other alternative but to physically visit the BSNL offices to know the status of the claims. We shall have to wait to know the result of the experiment with the proposed web-based program and if it is successful, this problem may be addressed to certain extent. It may also be recalled that in our All India Conference held at Bhubaneswar, the various problems noticed with BSNLMRS was discussed at length and some remedial measures were suggested. A resolution to this effect was also adopted and submitted to Prime Minister and others.  View the BSNL letter to all CGMs  View the BSNL letter to CGM ITPC

10.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA URGES MOSC&IT FOR ADOPTING THE SAME PRINCIPLE FOR THE BSNL PENSIONERS THAT HAS BEEN FOLLOWED BY DOP&PW FOR EXPEDITIOUS PAYMENT OF REVISED PENSION TO THE GOVERNMENT PENSIONERS:

Referring to its earlier letter to Secretary (T) (view posting dated 16.07.2016 in this website), AIBSNLREA now writes to MOSC&IT to follow the principle that was adopted by DOP&PW to revise the Pension/Family Pension of the pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners following acceptance of VI CPC recommendations wherein the disbursing authorities including the public sector banks were authorized to disburse the revised pension without waiting for further authorization from Account Officers concerned. The Association has also pointed out that DOP&PW has again adopted the same principle to revise and make payment of pension as per VII CPC recommendations to all pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners and requested MOSC&IT to intervene so that DOT follows the said principle for the pre-2007 BSNL pensioners/family pensioners now.  View the letter

10.08.2016:

UP STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MET PGM (HR/ADMN) AND G.M(FINANCE), UP (EAST) CIRCLE:

State Secretary Shri R S Arora and State Finance Secretary Shri Ambika Singh of AIBSNLREA, UP State Branch met PGM (HR/Admn) and G.M.(F), UP (East) Circle on 08.08.2016 and submitted a letter requesting to advise the SSAs for early compliance of DOT/BSNL Orders regarding allowing the fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA to the BSNL pensioners/family pensioners who retired before 10.06.2013. It was assured to do needful. The issues regarding non-allotment of Conference Hall/Meeting Hall to the Association, Pay anomaly case Shri H.C.Dutta, Retd AGM, Lucknow and the case of huge deduction in the medical claim bill of Shri Chhotey Lal, Retd SDE for Indoor treatment taken in Government Hospital were also discussed.

09.08.2016:

DOP&PW ISSUES MINUTES OF THE 28TH MEETING OF SCOVA HELD ON 27.06.2016 – A FEW OLD ISSUES OF INTEREST FOR THE BSNL PENSIONERS REVIEWED:

Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare vide its F.No 42/05/2016-P&PW(G) dated 08.08.2016 has now issued the minutes of the 28th Meeting of SCOVA held on 27.06.2016. The minutes contain the following few old items which have bearing on absorbed BSNL pensioners also:- Item No. 4(ii) Health Insurance Scheme for pensioners including those residing in non-CGHS areas, Item No. 4(v) Anomaly in fixation of pension to DOT employees absorbed in BSNL who retired between 1.10.2000 and 31.07.2001, Item No. 4(vi) Merger of 78.2% IDA with basic pension benefit to absorbed BSNL pensioners, Item No. 4(x) Extension of CGHS facilities to retired BSNL employees- Issue of follow up Orders by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and fixation of rate of contribution and ward entitlement by Department of Telecommunications. The attached Minutes with this text may be perused to know the details of the discussions and their status as on the date of the meeting. In regard to Item No. 4(v) on Anomaly in fixation of pension to DOT employees absorbed in BSNL who retired between 1.10.2000 and 31.07.2001, it may be added that on 8.8.2016, we have posted in this website the latest status on the issue as intimated by BSNL according to which BSNL is collecting/analyzing the data under the methodology suggested by DOP&PW. In regard to the Item No. 4(x) on Extension of CGHS facilities to retired BSNL employees, relevant Order issued by BSNL Corporate Office has already been posted in this website on 03.08.2016. It is now clear that after getting the equivalent pay and Grade Pay as applicable to the CG employees recorded in the PPO, the retired BSNL employees opting for CGHS facility will have to approach the CGHS authority who will decide their rate of contribution and ward entitlement.  View the Minutes

09.08.2016:

WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

West Bengal State Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 6th August, 2016 at CTO Hall, Kolkata. Despite rains, the hall was over crowded with massive participation of the members. 252 members registered their attendance in the meeting. The meeting started at 2 PM with State President Shri S.K.Maitra in the chair. The House first observed one minute’s silence in memory of the departed members. Shri S.R.Palt, State Secretary then placed his report containing the recent development and other information including the AIC held at Bhubaneswar. [Visit State News page of this website and go to West Bengal State section to read the full Report]

09.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA, KANPUR BRANCH HELD ITS GB MEETING:

Kanpur Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 4th August 2016 in the TRC Hall, Door Sanchar Bhawan, Kanpur. A large number of members attended the meeting. Besides the recent decision of the DOT to extend the fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA and revise the pension accordingly, other important issues currently under process were also discussed. Emphasize was also given to increase membership and open new branches in nearby areas.

08.08.2016:

BSNL RESPONDS TO THE ISSUES AS TAKEN UP BY AIBSNLREA THROUGH ITS AIC RESOLUTIONS WITH PRIME MINISTER AND OTHERS:

AIBSNLREA had earlier submitted the main resolutions adopted in its AIC at Bhubaneswar on the ongoing problems being faced by the absorbed BSNL pensioners – particularly the retired executives to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, concerned Ministers and CMD, BSNL [View posting dated 19.07.2016 for details]. PMO has posted also this in CPGRAMS. Now BSNL Corporate Office has responded on two of these issues. In regard to the anomaly in pension of the BSNL pensioners who retired between 1.10.2000 and 31.07.2001, it has been informed that as desired by DOT “information about pension drawn by the retirees are being collected/analysed to assess the financial implication on the basis of methodology suggested by DoP&PW.” In regard to another issue of not allowing the benefit of pay fixation in terms of para 4 of DOP&PW OM No. 4/18/87-P&PW(D) dated 5.7.1989 to the Group C employees who opted for absorption in BSNL, it has been intimated that as desired by DOT, information is being collected from the field units since these are not available in Corp[orate Office.  View the BSNL letter

08.08.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF AIBSNLREA, GUJARAT STATE BRANCH MET CGMT AND PGM (F), GUJARAT:

S/Shri P.B.Parmar, State President, A.B.Patel State Secretary and B.M.Bhavsar Organizing Secretary (West), CHQ met CGMT, Gujarat and PGM (Finance) on 05.08.2016 to discuss about early processing of the cases for revision of pension of the BSNL pensioners who retired before 10.06.2013 following issue of Orders by DOT to allow fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA. Both of them assured appropriate action to expedite the cases. Earlier on the day, the Executive Committee of Gujarat State Branch met and the State Secretary briefed the Committee Members about the AIC and other issues. It was further reported that the Nadiad Branch of the Association held a GB Meeting on 11.07.2016 which was attended by the State President and State Secretary. Vadodara Branch also held a GB Meeting on 14.07.2016. The State Secretary and Organizing Secretary (West), CHQ attended the same.

07.08.2016:

KURUKSHETRA BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS QUARTERLY GB MEETING:

Quarterly general body meeting of AIBSNLREA. Kurukshetra Branch was held on 26.7.2016 in Neelkanthi Yatri Niwas of Haryana Tourism under the president ship of Shri D.S Sandhu. Branch Secretary Shri Jogi Ram welcomed all the members. Shri D S Sandhu, a primary member of the branch and now elected as Organizing Secretary (North) in the AIC at Bhubaneswar was also welcomed by the branch. The members were apprised of the deliberations in AIC Bhubaneswar held on 2nd and 3rd July,2016 which was attended by S/Shri Jogi Ram, Branch Secretary and D.S Sandhu, Branch President. [Visit the Haryana State Section of State News page of this website to read the full Report]

06.08.2016:

E-JOURNAL AUGUST 2016 ISSUE:

August 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

06.08.2016:

DOP&PW ISSUES ORDERS IMPLEMENTING THE GOVERNMENT DECISIONS ON VII CPC RECOMMENDATIONS ON REVISION OF PROVISIONS REGULATING PENSION/GRATUITY/COMMUTATION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION/DISABILITY PENSION/EX-GRATIA LUMP-SUM COMPENSATION ETC:

DOP&PW has issued orders implementing the Government decisions on Seventh Central Pay Commission recommendations regarding regulating pension and pension related issues. Maximum limit of DCRG has been increased to 20 lakhs. The ceiling on gratuity will increase by 25% whenever the dearness allowance rises by 50% of the basic pay. This was one of the submissions made by us to the VII CPC. BSNL absorbed pensioners who retired after 1.1.2016 will get the benefit of enhanced ceiling of DCRG.  View the DoP&PW O.M

05.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL REGARDING THE DIFFICULTIES THAT THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES MAY FACE TO GET THEIR EQUIVALENT PAY AND GRADE PAY INDICATED IN THEIR PPO IN DOT OFFICES TO AVAIL CGHS FACILITY:

AIBSNLREA, while thanking for issue of final orders extending the option to the absorbed BSNL Employees either to switch over to CGHS or retain the BSNLMRS, has pointed out to Director (HR), BSNL that in absence of any instruction/advice received from BSNL or DOT, the CCA Offices may not entertain the request of the retired BSNL Employees to indicate the equivalent pay and Grade pay in their PPOs. The Association has requested Director (HR) “to kindly ensure that the concerned Units of DOT, which are to be approached to get equivalent pay and Grade pay indicted in the PPOs, are suitably instructed/advised so that no retired BSNL employee seeking to avail CGHS facility is harassed or put into trouble”.  View the letter

04.08.2016:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S LETTER DATED 20.07.2016 ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 REGARDING DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS IN RESPECT OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

DOP&PW has forwarded our letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/38 dated 20.07.2016 on the above matter (view posting dated 21.07.2016 in this website to read the letter) to Deputy Director General (PG), DOT to examine the issue and inform the Association suitably.  View the DoP&PW letter

03.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO DDG (ESTT), DOT AND OTHERS SINCE SOME CCA OFFICES EXPRESSED DOUBTS OVER IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 REGARDING DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS IN RESPECT OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

AIBSNLREA has again requested DDG(Estt), DOT with copy endorsed to others to intervene in the matter since some CCA Offices had expressed doubts over implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 on delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years, which has already been duly endorsed by both DOT and BSNL, in respect of the absorbed BSNL pensioners drawing pension in IDA scale. The Association cites the case of CCA, West Bengal Circle, Kolkata and requests “….. we again seek for your kind intervention in the matter. Let CCA, West Bengal Telecom Circle, Kolkata and others be suitably advised not to harass the absorbed BSNL pensioners on flimsy ground and implement the said DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 which has already been duly endorsed by DOT and BSNL”.  View the letter

03.08.2016:

RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES CAN NOW AVAIL CGHS FACILITIES – BSNL ISSUES ORDER:

BSNL has now issued Orders asking retired BSNL employees desirous to opt for CGHS facilities to approach DOT to indicate their equivalent basic pay and grade pay as per Central Pay Scales on their Pension Payment Order (PPO) to facilitate evaluation of subscription and room rent of the beneficiary. Onetime payment of CGHS subscription to be made by the optees will finally be reimbursed by BSNL. The retired employees who opt for CGHS facilities will have to surrender BSNLMRS. Thus, an old Order to extend the benefit of CGHS facilities to the retired BSNL employees issued in February 2014 gets implemented. It may not be out of place to mention here that when the proposal was originally mooted, some unions opposed it. But AIBSNLREA demanded that there must be an option to the retired employees either to switch over to CGHS or retain BSNLMRS. This demand was duly accepted by the Government.  View the letter

03.08.2016:

ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH HELD:

The Annual General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch was held on Sunday, the 31st July, 2016 at Amenity Block, CTO Compound, Nagpur under the Chairmanship of Shri N G Talewar President of the Branch. After paying tributes to the departed members, Shri Arun Deshpande Asst Secretary welcomed all the life members including the newly enrolled life members. He briefed the house regarding the efforts being taken by Nagpur Branch to resolve the grievances of the BSNL pensioners.

Shri P R Bhujbal Branch Secretary highlighted the proceedings of All India Conference held at Bhubaneswar (Odisha state) on 2nd and 3rd July, 2016. Important key issues concerning the BSNL pensioners and various resolutions passed by AIC were briefed to the members. Members of Nagpur Branch highly appreciated Gen Secretary CHQ for his sincere and honest efforts being taken in the interest of BSNL pensioners. Members were informed about the formation of Maharashtra state Body. House greeted newly elected CHQ and State body office bearers. The entire house greeted S/Shri P R Bhujbal and N G Talewar for their election as CHQ Vice President and State Vice President respectively….. [View Maharashtra State section in the Sate News Page of this website for the complete report – Ed]

03.08.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, DHARWAD DISTRICT (HUBLI) BRANCH::

The General Body Meeting of All India Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited Retired Executives’ Association, Dharwad District (Hubli) Branch, Karnataka was held on Friday the 29th July 2016 at the Conference Hall, BSNL Sadan in the premises of GMTD, Hubli. Shri B G Kanavi, President chaired the meeting. Shri A. S. Parwatikar, Branch Secretary welcomed the members and addressed the gathering. He specially appreciated the good attendance despite continuous heavy rains for the last one week. He highlighted the current issues taken up by CHQ in the interest of pensioners. He informed in depth about the order issued rescinding the pension liability clause between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio and extension of fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA for the purpose of revision of pension. [View Karnataka State section in State News page for complete report – Ed]

03.08.2016:

REPRESENTATIVES OF KOLHAPUR BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MET SR. GMTD, BSNL:

The Office bearers of AIBSNLREA, Kolhapur Branch led by Shri D K Joshi, Joint Secretary met Sr. GMT Kolhapur on 01.08.2016 and requested him for early action to take up the work for preparation of the pension papers for revision of Pension of the BSNL Pensioners who retired before 10.06.2013 in pursuance to the orders issued by both DOT and BSNL. They also met other DGMs for necessary action. All the Officers agreed to start the work as early as possible. The delegation from AIBSNLREA also offered their assistance, if needed, to speed up the work. The Sr. GM assured that he would take appropriate action in the matter. The Branch has also written letters to the GMs of Sangli, Satara and Ratnagiri SSAs with the similar request.

02.08.2016:

WHAT YOU GET AND WHAT YOU LOSE – CALCULATOR FOR THOSE WHO RETIRED FROM 1.1.2007 TO 9.6.2013:

After we uploaded a calculator for the pre-2007 BSNL pensioners in this website to find what one gets and what he loses following the Cabinet decision approving the disputed proposal of DOT for revision of pension of the BSNL pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA terming the same as “notional”, we had been receiving several requests to design one similar calculator for those who retired from 1.1.2007 to 9.6.2013. The matter was really a complex one since in this case many inputs differing from person to person, like month of increment, year and month of promotion/promotions and date of retirement, are required, to get the ultimate result. Our two-member team was on the job for more than a fortnight. While Shri S.Ratnasubramanian, AGS formulated the entire worksheet, Shri R.R.Balasubramanian did the validation and formatting. We are now happy to announce that the calculator for the absorbed BSNL pensioners who retired between 1.1.2007 and 9.6.2013 (both days inclusive) is finally ready. The calculator, involving a few steps to be performed by the user, will be uploaded in this website on 3.8.2016. Please do not hesitate to mail us your experience with the same.

02.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S SUSTAINED REPRESENTATIONS TO STRENTHEN THE GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM OF THE PENSIONERS YIELDING RESULT- PRIME MINISTER STEPPED IN:

AIBSNLREA has been continuously taking up the issue of ineffectiveness of the existing grievance redressal mechanisms for the pensioners with all concerned including the Prime Minister of India. These efforts have not gone in vain. The Hon’ble Prime Minister himself has intervened in the matter and emphasized during the Pragati meeting on 23rd March, 2016 that no grievance should remain unresolved for more than 60 days and the grievances which were pending for more than 60 days to be liquidated in a month’s time. This caused DOT Secretary to instruct that all grievances in CPGRAMS which were pending for more than 60 days be cleared by the end of April 2016 and in future no grievance should remain unresolved for more than 60 days.  View a DOT letter  View AIBSNLREA letter dated 21.3.2016

02.08.2016:

AIBSNLREA, AMBALA BRANCH HELD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A General Body Meeting of Ambala Branch (Haryana State) of AIBSNLREA was held on 29th July 2016 under the President ship of Sh. P C Chauhan at Hotel Makhanchor. 35 members attended the meeting in which 7 new members also joined as life members. The new members were welcomed by Shri Chauhan. The meeting was addressed by Shri J C. Gupta, Branch Secretary who briefed the members about the special efforts made by our Central leaders in solving the matter of merger of 78.2 % IDA wef 1.1.2007. The members pointed out that in respect of pensioners all arrears should be paid wef 1.1.2007 including leave encashment, commutation and gratuity instead of wef 10.6.2013. Branch Secretary also informed the members about the waiver of pension liability between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio. The meeting was followed by lunch.

02.08.2016:

UP STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS FIRST STATE CONFERENCE:

Uttar Pradesh State Branch of AIBSNLREA held its First State Conference at Rai Uma Nath Bali Prekshegrih, Kaiser Bagh, Lucknow on 25.07.2016. The Conference started with hoisting of the flag of the Association by State President S.N. Shukla. State Secretary R.S. Arora, Lucknow Branch President Jagdish Prasad and S P Singh, Branch Secretary, Lucknow joined him. Shri Singh then welcomed the delegates and other members. State President Shri S.N. Shukla in his opening address sought the cooperation of the house for smooth conduct of the business. This was followed by one minute silence in memory of departed colleagues who passed away during the period. After the self introduction, the Branch Secretary of different Branches placed their reports. At this stage Shri S Basu, General Secretary and R K Sinha, Joint Secretary joined the Conference. …. [To read the full report and connected documents, please view UP State Section in State News Page of this website]

01.08.2016:

AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS BI-MONTHLY MEETING:

Amravati Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA held its bi-monthly meeting on 30.07.2016 in the Conference hall of o/o GM TD, BSNL, Amravati under the chairmanship of Shri D.U.Waghamare. The meeting was attended by 24 members and 6 new members joined the Association. The house welcomed all of them. Secretary Shri V.G.Dakhode then gave detailed information about the deliberations that took place in the AIC held on 2nd & 3rd July 2016 in Bhubaneswar. He also read out the resolutions passed in the AIC and the house discussed on those issues. The members expressed their satisfaction on the systematic persuasion by CHQ and the stand taken by it in regard to the issue of implementation of DPE Order allowing fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA…… [For full report, please view Maharashtra Section in State News page of thgis website]

01.08.2016:

GB MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, SANGRUR BRANCH (PUNJAB STATE) HELD:

Sangrur Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 27.07.2016 in the office of Shri Parshotam Dass, Retd. SDE at Kuala Park, Sangrur. S/Shri P K Jindal, President and V K Mittal, Finance Secretary highlighted the members about the various issues which are either solved in the interest of the retired executives or under active consideration after being taken up by the CHQ. The members were informed about the order issued rescinding the pension liability clause between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio and extension of fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA for the purpose of revision of pension…. [Please view the Punjab State Section in the State News page in this website to read the full report]

01.08.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF MUMBAI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

A General Body meeting of Mumbai branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 20.7.2016 at 14.00 hrs in the Conference Hall of Fountain Telecom Building, Mumbai with Shri Vasudev, President on the chair. He welcomed all the members and appreciated the good attendance despite heavy rains. He specially welcomed two new members S/Shri S R Yadav and R B Chaturvedi and also shared with his important views. Secretary Shri S P Verma read out the minutes of the last G B meeting and informed the house about the issues discussed in the All India conference held at Bhubaneswar on 2nd and 3rd July, 2016……. [To read the full report, please view the Maharashtra State section in the State News page of this website]

31.07.2016:

PRESIDENT’S SECRETARIAT, RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S PETITION ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF THE OFFER MADE BY DOT TO THE GROUP C EMPLOYEES TO ALLOW OPTION TO DEFER THEIR PAY FIXATION IN IDA SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER:

AIBSNLREA, vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2015/20 dated 19.05.2016 [view posting dated 22.05.2016 in this website to read the petition] had appealed to the President of India to render justice to the Group ‘C’ Employees of DOT who were offered the benefit of option to retain CDA pay scale till their promotion or retirement whichever is earlier while inviting option for their absorption in BSNL but now being denied the same. President’s Secretariat has since forwarded the petition to Secretary, Department of Telecommunications vide No. P1/A/0106160260 dated 01.06.2016 for action and further advising that “Action taken on the petition may please be communicated to the petitioner directly under intimation to this Secretariat.”  View the letter

31.07.2016:

DEPARTMENT OF LEGAL AFFAIRS (MINISTRY OF LAW & JUSTICE) FORWARDS COPY OF THE AIBSNLREA’S APPEAL TO THE PRIME MINISTER, THAT WAS MARKED TO THE MINISTER OF LAW & JUSTICE WHEREIN APPEAL WAS MADE SEEKING INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER IN REGARD TO MOUNTING PROBLEMS OF THE PENSIONERS, TO DOP&PW:

AIBSNLREA had appealed to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his intervention in the matter of mounting problems of the pensioners due to non-settlement of their grievances through available mechanism. The Association also pleaded that “there is an urgent need to create a separate Tribunal in all important cities exclusively for the Pensioners which can hear the petitions of the aggrieved pensioners expeditiously and give judgment. To begin with, separate courts exclusively for the pensioners be created in all the benches of Central Administrative Tribunals”. Posting dated 23.03.2016 in this website may be viewed to read the said letter dated 21.03.2016 from AIBSNLREA. Now The Department of Legal Affairs has forwarded the copy of the Association’s letter that was marked to Minister of Law & Justice to Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare for appropriate action.  View the letter

29.07.2016:

BSNL FINALLY ENDORSES DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS – DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE FOR 33 YEARS -- AIBSNLREA’s REPRESENTATIONS YIELD THE RESULT:

AIBSNLREA has been representing to DOT, DOP&PW and BSNL stating that the DOP&PW OM No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 06.04.2016 regarding delinking of revised pension from qualifying service for 33 years of service, which was duly endorsed by DOT vide its No. 40-04/2013-Pen(B) dated 05.05.2016, is not being implemented for the absorbed BSNL Pensioners by the field offices of BSNL on the plea that BSNL Corporate Office has not endorsed the same. In addition, some CCA Offices have also sought for some clarifications from DOT. DOP&PW has already taken note of our representation and now BSNL Corporate Office has endorsed the same OM of DOP&PW. We shall continue to pursue with DOT for its early implementation.  View the BSNL endorsement

29.07.2016:

CBDT EXTENDS THE DATE FOR FILING INCOME TAX RETURN FOR ASSESSMENT YEAR 2016- 2017 FROM JULY 31ST TO AUGUST 5TH, 2016 :

As per provisions of Section 139(1) of Income-tax Act 1961, Central Board of Direct Taxes extends the due date for filing returns of Income for Assessment Year 2016- 2017 from 31st July, 2016 to 5th August,2016 , in case of taxpayers throughout India who are liable to file their Income-tax by 31st July, 2016. This extension is given in order to avoid any inconvenience to the taxpayers while making payment of taxes pertaining to returns of income for Assessment Year 2016- 2017 by 31st July, 2016 due to reports of Bank strike on 29th July,2016(Friday) and 31st July,2016 (Sunday), being a Bank-Holiday.

29.07.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH MEET CGM CHENNAI TELEPHONES:

AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch President Shri V.Dakshinamoorthy and Asst. Branch Secretary Shri R.R.Balasubramanian along with CHQ President Shri V. Chinnapappiah and AGS Shri S.Ratnasubramanian met CGM Chennai Telephones and IFA Chennai Telephones separately today and requested them to facilitate revision of pension with 78.2% fitment benefit to those who retired before 10.6.2013 at the earliest. They also offered secretarial assistance for early completion of the work. Both the CGM and IFA expressed their gratitude for the offer and assured that they will do the needful.

29.07.2016:

BI-MONTHLY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, PUNE BRANCH:

Bi monthly meeting of AIBSNLREA, Pune Branch was held at Bajirao Road Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall on 17/7/16 at 11.00 hours. 35 members attended the meeting. Elaborate discussion took place on the report of AIC held on 2nd and 3rd July 2016 at Bhubaneshwar and also on the resolution passed by AIC. Discussion was also held regarding the Cabinet approval of fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA and annulment of pension liability between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio. All participants appreciated the efforts taken by the Association in the matter.

28.07.2016:

WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD GENERAL BODY MEETING:

West Bengal State Branch of AIBSNLREA is going to hold a General Body Meeting on Saturday, the 6th August, 2016 in the Telegraph Institute Hall, C.T.O., Kolkata at 1 PM to discuss all current issues relating to B.S.N.L Pensioners and reporting of All India Conference held in Bhubaneswar on 2nd and 3rd July, 2016. All members and BSNL Pensioners are requested to attend the meeting.

27.07.2016:

EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING ON 31.07.2016:

East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its annual General Body Meeting at 16.00 hours on Sunday, the 31st July, 2016 at the Amenity Hall, Central Telegraph Office, Nagpur. The Branch Secretary will place the report about the last All India Conference held at Bhubaneswar and other issues. Election of new Office Bearers of the Branch will also take place in the meeting. All members of the Branch and other retired Executives who are yet to become members are also welcome to attend the meeting. For further detailed, Shri P R Bhujbal, Branch Secretary may be contacted on Mobile No. 9422810810.

27.07.2016:

CHANDIGARH BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GB MEETING:

Chandigarh branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 23.07.2016. the house applauded the systematic approach of CHQ leaders in achieving the goal. The members also appreciated the All India Conference decision of knocking the door of court for removal of notional arrangement and release of benefits from 1st January, 2007. Shri Lokesh Chopra, Ex- Joint Secretary, CHQ in his address to the members gave details of benefits to pensioners and also cleared their doubts.

26.07.2016:

BSNL FORWARDS DOT LETTER DATED 18.7.2016 ON REVISION OF PENSION OF BSNL PENSIONERS AND FAMILY PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.6.2013 TO ALL CIRCLES AND UNITS FOR NECESSARY ACTION:

BSNL has forwarded the DoT letter dated 18.7.2016 on revision of pension of BSNL pensioners/family pensioner who retired prior to 10.6.2013 by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA/DR with Basic Pay/Pension effectively amounting to 78.2% DA/DR for the purpose of fitment to all circles/units directing them to initiate the process of consolidation of pension/family pension immediately and forward the same to the concerned CCAs for consolidation and issue of revised Pension Payment Orders.  View the BSNL letter

25.07.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHATTISGARH STATE BRANCH TO BE HELD ON 26-07-2016.:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Chattisgarh State Branch will be held on Tuesday, the 26th July 2016 at 3.50 PM in the Microwave Building, Room No.105, First Floor, Fafadih, Raipur. All members and other retired executives are requested to attend the meeting. For details, Shri P.Z.Choradia, State President may be contacted in his mobile: 9425216191

24.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA LODGES PROTEST AGAINST DOT’S DECISION TO DEPRIVE THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS OF THEIR LEGITIMATE DUES ON ACCOUNT OF PAY/PENSION AREEARS, DCRG, LEAVE ENCHAHMENT AND COMMUTATION VALUE OF PENSION WHILE EXTENDING THE FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% DA:

On behalf of the members of the Association and also on behalf those absorbed BSNL pensioners, who are convinced that the decision of DOT on the above issue depriving them the benefit of regular fixation of pay/pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA as on 1.1.2007 is totally unjust and unfair, AIBSNLREA has conveyed to Secretary (T) and MOSC&IT its total disapproval of the said decision and lodged strong protest for depriving the consequential benefits of pay/pension arrears, DCRG, Leave Encashment and Commuted Value of Pension by unilaterally terming the fixation as “notional”. The Association has added that ‘this decision of the DOT to deprive the pensioners of their right to get their legitimate dues goes against the very assertion by our Hon’ble Prime Minister, which he conveyed through his Message to the Elders dated March 31st 2015, that “My Government is thus committed to ensuring that your golden years are spent happily, peacefully and meaningfully”. Therefore, we cannot be expected to spend our days happily, peacefully and meaningfully in the face of such raw deal by Department of Telecommunications’.  View the letter

23.07.2016:

ANNULMENT OF PENSION LIABILITY ON 60:40 RATIO - IS IT A BANE OR BOON?:

A few days back we had reported in this site that Shri S Ratnasubramanian, AGS, AIBSNLREA, through his new ‘Write Up’ which is now under finalization, is creating a ground for a debate and discussion whether the recent decision of the Government to annul the pension liability Order to share the responsibility between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio for payment of pension is really a boon or bane. The 'Write-Up' has now been finalised and is published here for initiating the debate.  View the Write-Up

23.07.2016:

DOT ISSUES ORDERS IMPLEMENTING CABINET DECISION ON MODIFYING LIABILITY OF BSNL TOWARDS PAYMENT OF PENSIONERY BENEFITS TO THE RETIRED EMPLOYEES:

DoT has issued order implementing the cabinet decision on 5.7.2016 by annulling the condition that the annual pension liability of the government shall not exceed 60% of the annual receipts to Government from the items specified in the O.M.dated 15.6.2006.  View the DoT letter

21.07.2016:

IS THE DECISION OF THE GOVERNMENT TO ANNUL PENSION LIABILITY BETWEEN DOT AND BSNL A BOON OR BANE:

Shri S Ratnasubramanian, AGS, AIBSNLREA, through his new ‘Write UP’ which is now under finalization, is creating a ground for a debate and discussion whether the recent decision of the Government to annul the pension liability Order to share the responsibility between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio for payment of pension is really a boon or bane. Drawing a parallel between MTNL and BSNL, he has pointed out how the share value of MTNL in the market soared immediately after the Government took a decision to take over the entire pension liability of MTNL pensioners retrospectively w.e.f. 1.10.2000 - by covering MTNL too under Rule 37A of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 – though neither the quality of service in MTNL improved nor it made any financial recovery. Similarly, the Government which was planning for disinvestment of BSNL has not only been claiming financial turn-around by BSNL for the last two years wherein it was told that BSNL made operating profit of about 674 crores in the financial year 2014-15 and 2000 crores in the financial year 2015-16. Who knows that this was not a confidence building measure among the investors ? Now the present decision to annul the pension liability arrangement between DOT and BSNL could add strength to that attempt to build confidence building in the investors that BSNL will not have any liability for the pensioners at any given point of time. As a pensioner, we know that despite existence of this pension liability arrangement, no retiree ever was disallowed of his pension nor payment of pension to any existing pensioner was stopped or delayed. Even the proposal for revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA in the present form as approved by the Cabinet was cleared by Department of Expenditure as back as on 15.10.2014. It is another story that DOT did not move with Cabinet Note at that time despite the advice from DOE – perhaps DOT wanted to include the issue of annulment of pension liability arrangement in the same Cabinet Memo keeping an eye for the future. Now a news item appearing in Indian Express that Government now prepares itself for disinvestment of BSNL gives credence to the above apprehension. May be the Government is now assured that with the news of BSNL’s return to the path of profit-making and BSNL having no liability towards pensioners would allow the BSNL’s shares to fetch higher value.  View the News item

21.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP WITH DDG(ESTT), DOT THE DIFFICULTIES BEING FACED IN THE FIELD UNITS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM REGARDING DELINKING OF 33 YEARS OF QUALIFYING SERVICE FOR REVISION OF PENSION IN RESPECT OF PRE-2006 ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Dy. Director General (Estt), Department of Telecommunications and others regarding the difficulties being faced in the field units for implementation of DOP&PW OM dated 06.04.2016 duly endorsed by DOT on 05.05.2016 in respect of absorbed pre-2006 absorbed BSNL pensioners. Some units are doubting its applicability in case of the absorbed BSNL pensioners and some are asking for the endorsement by BSNL. AIBSNLREA has requested DDG(Estt) to resolve the issue at the earliest.  View the letter

21.07.2016:

OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH MEET CGMT TAMILNADU CIRCLE AND IFA OF TAMILNADU CIRCLE:

Office bearers of AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch, S/Shri V.Dakshinamoorthy President, L.Sundararaman, Secretary and R.R.Balasubramanian Asst. Secretary, along with CHQ President Shri V.Chinnapappiah and AGS Shri S.Ratnasubramanian met CGMT Tamilnadu Circle yesterday and requested her to ensure early implementation of revision of pension of those who retired prior to 10.6.2013 as ordered by DoT and also offered to provide secretarial assistance if required in the process. CGMT expressed happiness over the offer and wanted the office bearers to discuss the matter with the PGM (F), the IFA of the Circle. Later all the office bearers met PGM (F) and placed the same request and their willingness to provide secretarial assistance in pension revision work. He said that the list of pensioners, in respect of circle office, who retired prior to 10.6.2013 has already been taken and he will send detailed instructions to all SSAs for early implementation of the pension revision as soon as BSNL endorses DoT order. He appreciated the offer for secretarial assistance and said he will take a decision after discussing with the CGM. The office bearers conveyed to him that similar assistance can be offered in the SSAs too. Later the issue of revised pay fixation on promotion with 3% notional increment instead of equivalent of the previous increment was discussed and he was requested to do the needful to revise the fixation and pay arrears to all those who retired after 1.1.2007, since action has already been taken for serving employees and arrears have been paid. PGM (F) said that though revised fixation has been done for serving employees, CCA is objecting to it and is reversing the benefit at the time of retirement on the plea that the concerned DoT letter has not been endorsed to CCAs. Office bearers of AIBSNLREA Chennai however requested him to process the case for pensioners stating that they will meet CCA too on the issue and try to convince him.

20.07.2016:

CONCESSIONAL TELEPHONE FACILITIES TO THE BSNL PENSIONERS - AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD, BSNL ON FEW ASPECTS OF THE ISSUE:

Based on the discussions In the All India Conference of AIBSNLREA held on 2nd and 3rd July, 2016 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on various aspects of the concessional telephone facilities to the absorbed BSNL pensioners, AIBSNLREA has written a letter to CMD, BSNL high lighting those issues and requesting him to resolve the same.  View the letter

19.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA SENDS THE MAIN RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED IN THE ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF THE ASSOCIATION HELD ON 2nd AND 3rd JULY, 2016 IN BHUBANESWAR TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA, OTHER CONCERNED MINISTERS AND CMD, BSNL:

In the All India Conference of AIBSNLREA held on 2nd and 3rd July, 2016 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha some resolutions were adopted on some grievances of the pensioners in general and absorbed BSNL pensioners in particular which remained unresolved for quite a long time despite the Association taking up these issues time and again. These resolutions have since been sent to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, other concerned Ministers and CMD, BSNL for their personal interventions.  View the letter  View the Resolutions

18.07.2016:

DOT ISSUES ORDER ON REVISION OF PENSION FOR PRE-10.6.2013 BSNL PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS:

Implementing the decision of the Cabinet, DoT has issued orders revising pension of BSNL pensioners/family pensioners, who retired prior to 10.6.2013 by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA/DR with Basic Pay/Pension, effectively amounting to 78.2% DA/DR for the purpose of fitment. According to the DoT order, the exercise to extend benefit of these orders to the pensioners/family pensioners is to be completed by 31.12.2016.  View the DoT order

18.07.2016:

STATE BODY OF AIBSNLREA, MAHARASHTRA FORMED:

A meeting of the delegates from all the Branches of AIBSNLREA from Maharashtra who assembled at Bhubaneswar to participate in the AIC was held at the same venue on 3.7.2016 in presence of S/Shri S.Basu, General Secretary and P R Bhujbal, Vice-President, AIBSNLREA. Shri D.K. Joshi, Joint Secretary, AIBSNLREA presided over the meeting. The participants emphasized the need to form a State Body and unanimously elected a State Body. S/Shri P C Dubey and V G Dakhode were elected as the President and State Secretary respectively. Shri P D Rahulkar is the Financial Secretary of the State Body.  View the full list of office bearers

18.07.2016:

ODISHA STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GB MEETING:

Odisha State Branch of AIBSNLREA held its General Body Meeting in the Conference Room of Hotel Prangan by Mango Hotels, Bhubaneswar on 30.06.2016. Shri S Basu, General Secretary, AIBSNLREA addressed the gathering. The members raised doubts on some pensioners problems and the General Secretary replied their queries. A new State body was formed in the meeting with Shri Sanatan Das as the State President and Shri P K Mohanty as State Secretary. Shri N Mahapatra was elected as the Finance Secretary.  View the full list of office bearers

18.07.2016:

PALAKKAD BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS ANNUAL GB MEETING:

Palakkad Branch (Kerala State) held its General Body meeting on 21.06.2016 at Top Town Auditorium, Palakkad. The Branch Secretary gave information on the ongoing issues. Members participated in large numbers in the meeting and took part in the discussions. Two new members joined the Association. Later election of new Office Bearers of the Branch was held. S/Shri K Haridasan and P Prabhakaran and K C Venkatichalam were elected as President, Secretary and Financial Secretary in that order  View the full list of office bearers

16.07.2016:

EXPEDITIOUS IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ORDERS BEING ISSUED FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 50% DA AMOUNTING TO 78.2% IDA FOLLOWING APPROVAL ACCORDED TO THE PROPOSAL BY CABINET:

In order to expedite implementation of the Orders to be issued for revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners who retired before 10.06.2013 with fitment benefit by merger of 50% DA amounting of 78.2% IDA, AIBSNLREA has suggested application of the same method for the pre-2007 BSNL pensioners that was followed in pursuance to the instructions issued by DOP&PW for revision of pension of the pre-2006 Government pensioners wherein the pension disbursing authorities including public sector banks were authorized to pay the revised pension without waiting for further authorization by the CCAs. The PPOs of these pensioners could also be prepared and sent by the CCAs at the earliest. In respect of other BSNL pensioners, whose revised pension cannot be paid unless the revised PPOs are issued on the basis of their notional pay-fixation and thereafter revised pension fixation, the entire process should be expedited to issue their PPOs without delay and make the payment.  View the letter

15.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR), BSNL ABOUT ABNORMAL DELAY IN SETTLEMENT OF CLAIMS FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS FOR INDOOR TREATMENT IN DHANBAD SSA OF JHARKHAND TELECOM CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed Director (HR), BSNL bringing to her notice about non-settlement of claims for reimbursement of medical bills for indoor treatment submitted by the BSNL pensioners which are pending over past one year in the office of General Manager, Dhanbad Telecom District, Jharkhand Telecom Circle. The Association points out to the clear instructions issued by her to settle such bills within one month of their submissions and urges her to intervene.  View the letter

14.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF NON-SETTLEMENT OF THE CASE FOR REVISION OF COMMUTATION OF SHRI DEODHARI LAL DAS, RETD AGM, ODISHA CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since taken up the issue regarding non-settlement of revision of commutation of Shri Deodhari Lal Das, Retd AGM, Odisha Circle in the line of the clarification issued by DOT vide its F.No. 40-16/2012-Pen (T) dated 10.06.2013. The issue is pending in the office of CCA, Odisha Circle since long. The Association has requested for the intervention of DDG(Estt), DOT in the matter.  View the letter

14.07.2016:

NON-ISSUE OF PRESIDENTIAL ORDERS FOR ABSORPTION IN BSNL – AIBSNLREA WRITES TO MEMBER (SERVICES) TO INTERVENE:

AIBSNLREA has written a letter to Member (Services) in the matter of non-issue of Presidential Orders for absorption in BSNL in respect of S/Shri B S Patel, Retd SDE, B I Bhatt, Retd SDE and M G Malek, Retd SDE, all from Gujarat who were acquitted of the charges by the court and their cases for absorption in BSNL are still pending. The Association has requested for intervention of Member (Service) for early issue of the Presidential Orders for their absorption.  View the letter

14.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA, EAST GODAVARI BRANCH (AP STATE) MEET THE NEW SR. GENERAL MANAGER, EAST GODAVARI SSA:

Representatives of East Godavary District Branch of AIBSNLREA met Shri John Chrisostom, the new Senior GMTD, East Godavari SSA to pay a courtesy visit at 11.30 hrs on 12.07.2016. The Sr GMTD recollected his association with S/Shri Ch Gandhi, OS( South) and GV Rama Krishna, President. The Sr GMTD also shared his views with S/Shri Kodanada Rao A, Rajagopala Rao, C Rama Krishna, S Satya Narayana and KBS Naidu. The Senior General Manager Telecom also assured the DS that he will take initiative in settling all the issues of the pensioners including 78.2% fixation as soon the orders are received. S/Sri Ramesh Babu, DGM (Admin), Subba Rao D, DGM (PLG), and Narayana. DGM (Cellone) also participated in the meeting.

14.07.2016:

QUARTERLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, EAST GODAVARI BRANCH HELD:

Quarterly General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, East Godavari Branch (AP State) was held on 11-07-2016 at Hotel RL Grand Kakinada under the president ship of Shri GV Rama Krishna. The DS welcomed Shri Ch Gandhi, CHQ Organizing Secretary (South) on to the dais. Shri GV Rama Krishna enlightened about the AIC held at Bhubaneswar to the members. The DS gave detailed report on the AIC and explained how the deliberations went on and the resolutions made. The house discussed the 78.2% DA merger issue and on the notional fixation of pay till the date of retirement and arrears there off for pre and post 2007 pensioners/family pensioners. [ For full text of the Report, please visit Andhra Pradesh State section of State News page in this website]

13.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN TAKES UP WITH DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE THE ISSUE OF GRANTING ONE NOTIONAL INCREMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PENSIONARY BENEFIT TO THE PENSIONERS COMPLETING ONE FULL YEAR’S SERVICE BUT FAILING TO EARN THE ANNUAL INCREMENT WHICH FALL ON THE FOLLOWING DAY AFTER RETIREMENT:

AIBSNLREA has taken up the above issue with Department of Expenditure (Ministry of Finance) which earlier turned down the request. The Association has now clarified that it did not suggested to tinker with the Government’s decision to have July 1 of the year as the uniform and single date for granting annual increment to its employees. The Association has further added that it only requested for allowing one notional increment solely for the purpose of pensionary benefits to those employees who complete full one year’s service but fail to draw the annual increment since it falls on the very next day of their retirement. The Association has requested the DOE to examine the issue afresh and cause issue of an order.  View the letter

13.07.2016:

PAY FIXATION OF EXECUTIVES ON PROMOTION AND CONSEQUENT RE-FIXATION OF PENSION OF POST 2007 RETIREES IN EXECUTIVE CADRES:

While conveying the decision of the Government on the recommendations of the 2nd Pay Revision Committee, DPE vide its OM No.2 (70)/08-DPE (WC) dated 26.11.2008 had stipulated that, while fixing pay on promotion for an Executive, “One notional increment equal to the increment being drawn by the executive in the pay scale, before such promotion would be granted and pay fixed in the promoted pay scale and rounded off to the next multiple of Rs.10.” BSNL implemented this stipulation in respect of its Executives. Whereas in respect of non-executives, according to BSNL letter No. 1-16/2010-PAT (BSNL) dated 07.05.2010, “… On promotion, one notional increment equal to 3% of the existing basic pay rounded off to the next multiple of Rs.10 was granted and pay fixed in the promoted pay scale.”

After one of the Executives’ Associations i.e. AIBSNLOA continuously pursued the issue, BSNL vide its letter No.1-05/2015-PAT (BSNL) dated 19.1.2016 conveyed DoT’s clarification that the notional increment @ 3% of the existing basic pay may be granted for fixation of pay on promotion of the Executives. But BSNL, while implementing the said DOT order, allowed this benefit notionally w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and actually from 6.1.2016. The same Executives Association again raised the issue with BSNL for extending the benefit on actual basis from 1.1.2007. Finally, BSNL issued orders vide its letter No.1-05/2015-PAT (BSNL) dated 4.4.2016 allowing the fixation from 1.1.2007 on actual basis.

In many circles, the Executives got their pay fixed on promotion giving a notional increment equal to the increment drawn by the executive, thereby drawing roughly 0.1% less on every subsequent increments. This accumulated on every subsequent promotion and hence affected the pensionary benefits though marginally. In a few circles, where fixation was initially done with notional increment @ 3% of the existing basic pay, re-fixation was done subsequently and recoveries were made. Now that orders have been issued straightening the position, all the post 2007 pensioners who were granted post based or time bound promotions, are to be benefitted both in terms of their pay fixation and pension fixation. The matter was discussed in the All India Conference held at Bhubaneswar on 2nd and 3rd July 2016. It was decided that all the affected pensioners who retired after 1.1.2007 and falling in one of the above two categories should submit their representations and that the local/State office-bearers may pursue the matter with the Circle/SSA Administration and the Circle CCA concerned for revised pay fixation with arrears and also for revised fixation of pension along with arrears. All affected Executives are requested to download the format of representation as applicable to them and submit them along with the required details and copies of the two BSNL letters immediately to the BSNL administration concerned.  View BSNL letter dated 19.01.2016  View BSNL letter dated 04.04.2016  Download the model representations

13.07.2016:

QUARTERLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, KOLHAPUR BRANCH:

Quarterly General Body meeting of Kolhapur Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 10th July 2016 in Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall. Kolhapur with Shri L M Godi, President in the Chair. Meeting started with Prayer. 41 members attended the meeting. President welcomed all the Members including new Member Shri Kambale from Jishingpur, and informed the agenda of this meeting. He further informed the house about election of Shri DK Joshi as the Jt. Secretary, CHQ. He also informed that Shri PS Kulkarni and Shri. NC Jain were elected as the CWC Member and Organizing Secretary respectively of Maharashtra Circle in the adhoc body that was formed in the AIC Venue itself. Members greeted the all the three and wished them success. [ For full text of the Report, please visit Maharashtra page of State News page]

12.07.2016:

OFFICE-BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA COIMBATORE BRANCH MEET PRINCIPAL GENERAL MANAGER, COIMBATORE:

After formation of the AIBSNLREA branch at Coimbatore, Shri M. Ponnuswami, President, Shri R. Damodaran, Secretary, Shri J. Ramalingam, Finance Secretary and Shri K.Sivakumaran, Assistant Secretary met Shri D. Sivaraj, Principal General Manager, BSNL, Coimbatoreon on 1st July, 2016 in his chamber and submitted the list of Office Bearers of AIBSNLREA Coimbatore Branch. Although it was meant to be a courtesy call, the PGM took this opportunity to discuss with the retired executives regarding various issues on the growth of BSNL. As a responsible retired executives’ association, the office-bearers offered to render the services of retired executives to BSNL wherever and what manner it is feasible. PGM appreciated the offer and wanted service in the maintenance of FTTH, OF cable and local cable maintenance in selected areas of the SSA. PGM recalled the performances of Shri K.Sivakumaran, Shri D. Ramesh and Shri R. Damodaran during their service in the fields of OF cable maintenance and FTTH and said that they can come forward to maintain FTTH on selected areas and offered to give the work on MOU basis without need for tender. But the office-bearers of AIBSNLREA just wanted to extend their service without any expectations and informed the PGM that they will discuss the matter and convey specific ways in which they can help. Shri J. Ramalingam, Finance Secretary then gave a few inputs on sales & marketing and the PGM noted down the points in his diary. The 20 minutes meeting ended with the office-bearers thanking the PGM for sparing some time with them.

12.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE REGARDING NON-ROUNDING OFF FRACTION OF A RUPEE TO THE NEXT HIGHER RUPEE TO DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS BY PR. CCA, TAMILNADU CIRCLE DURING LAST PENSION REVISION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS IN THE YEAR 2013:

As per Rule 49/4 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, the amount of pension shall be expressed in whole rupee and where the pension contains a fraction of a rupee it shall be rounded off to the next higher rupee. Recently, DOP&PW vide its OM No. 38/8/15-P&PW(A) dated 16.04.2015 have reiterated the same position. But the Principal CCA, Tamilnadu Circle during last pension revision in the year 2013 did not round off the fraction of a rupee to the next higher rupee which resulted in fixation of pension by one rupee less. In order to get all such revised PPOs rectified and avoid further wrong fixation in future, AIBSNLREA has taken up the issue with Member (Services) and others. It has requested Member (Services) that “Now that another revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners is expected soon following approval of DOT’s proposal for revision of pension of all those absorbed BSNL pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2013 by the Cabinet, it is time that all the CCAs are advised to strictly comply with the above referred provision in the CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 and the OM dated 16.04.2016 issued by DOP&PW while revising the pension. The Pr. CCA, Tamilnadu Circle may kindly be specifically advised to rectify the old revised Pension Payment Orders in which fraction of a rupee was not rounded off to the next higher rupee”.  View the letter  View the DoP&PW OM

11.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS & IT ABOUT NON-HOLDING OF PENSION ADALATS BY THE CCAs ON REGULAR BASIS AND NON-APPOINTMENT OF NODAL OFFICERS IN BSNL OFFICES:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to Minister of State for Communications & IT (Independent Charge) about non-functioning of the mechanisms for redressal of the Grievances of the pensioners in DOT and BSNL. The Association has pointed out that the CCAs are not holding quarterly Pension Adalats despite clear instructions from DOT. Similarly, BSNL has not appointed any Nodal Officer for redressal of grievances of the pensioners in its offices. The Association has sought the intervention of the MOS for Communications & IT so that that Pension Adalats are being held strictly on quarterly strictly by the CCA Units of DOT and the BSNL appoints the Nodal Officers in its Corporate Office and also in its field Units for redressal of grievances of the absorbed pensioners.  View the letter

10.07.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF NON-GRANT OF SECOND ACP TO THE ELIGIBLE SDEs (CIVIL) BY CIVIL WING OF WEST BENGAL TELECOM CIRCLE WITH MINISTER OF STATE FOR (PP):

Seeking for an early redressal of the grievance of the affected retired SDEs (Civil) of West Bengal Telecom Circle BSNL, AIBSNLREA now seeks the intervention of Minister of State for (PP), Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare with a copy endorsed to Minister of State for Communications & IT and others. The Association writes that “….. we earnestly appeal to your kind self to intervene in the matter so that Department of Telecommunications and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited take immediate action not only to restore the benefit of 2nd ACP to all the 16 retired SDEs (Civil) which was withdrawn arbitrarily and in violation of the rules/orders by the West Bengal Circle of BSNL vide its No. 11-6/2007-CEEZ/1093 dated 26.05.2009, but it also extends the benefit to other eligible retired SDEs (Civil)”.  View the letter

08.07.2016:

UTTAR PRASDESH STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ITS AGB ON JULY 25, 2016 AT LUCKNOW:

Uttar Pradesh State Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its Annual General Body Meeting at 10.30 AM sharp on 25.07.2016 in Uma Nath Bali Praksha Griha, Lucknow. Delegates from all the Branches and other members will join the meeting. General Secretary Shri S Basu will also be attending the meeting.  View the Notice for the AGB

07.07.2016:

FIRST ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA HELD WITH GRANDIOSE AND ENTHUSIASM:

The first All India Conference of AIBSNLREA concluded its proceedings on Sunday evening after two days’ deliberations on 2nd July and 3rd July 2016 at Hotel Prangan by Mango in Bhubaneswar with Vote of Thanks by Shri V.Chinnapappiah, the newly elected President. The Conference witnessed participation by retired BSNL Executives with the same liveliness, interest, enthusiasm and excitement as was witnessed during the days when they were in service. Deliberations were as purposeful and focused as it used to be in their younger years. Confusion created by demand by other pensioners‘ associations on various issues, particularly in respect of their much hyped demand for 7th CPC fitment benefit to BSNL pensioners was cleared and every participant has returned back with clarity and contentment regarding AIBSNLREA’s stand on the issues. A Special Session was also held on Saturday evening with the CGMT Odisha Circle, former CGMT Odisha Circle, Joint CCA, Odisha, Sr. GM and GM (HR) of Odisha circle as Special Invitees. There were lively discussions on many issues, proposals to amend the Rules and Regulations and resolutions moved by the branches and states. Branch Secretaries’ report added color to the proceedings. New office-bearers were elected unanimously.
 View GS Report
 View new office-bearers list
 View Photos
 View a brief report on Special Session
 View Photos of Special Session
[All these documents/photos are permanently available in the left column under 'AIC - BHUBANESWAR']

07.07.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.7.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.7.2016 from 112.4% to 114.8% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  Click Here for the orders

07.07.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.7.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.7.2016 from 258.6% to 262.6% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.  Click Here for the orders

06.07.2016:

E-JOURNAL JULY 2016 ISSUE:

July 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

05.07.2016:

CABINET APPROVES FITMENT BENEFIT OF 78.2% TO BSNL PENSIONERS AND ALSO ANNULES 60:40 SHARING OF PENSION LIABILITY BETWEEN DOT AND BSNL:

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the revision of pension of BSNL pensioners and family pensioners, who retired prior to 10.06.2013 by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA/DR with Basic Pay/ Pension, effectively amounting to 78.2% DA/DR for the purpose of fitment, and (ii) Modifying the liability of BSNL towards the payment of pensionary benefits to the retired employees. The pension of BSNL pensioners/family pensioners, who retired prior to 10.06.2013 has been revised w.e.f. 01.01.2007 notionally with actual benefit w.e.f. 10.06.2013, by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA/DR with Basic Pay/ Pension, effectively amounting to 78.2% DA/DR for the purpose of fitment at par with the serving employees of BSNL. However, increase in the amount of DCRG, leave encashment and commutation of pension in respect of these pensioners shall not be increased on this account. The pension liability in respect of employees of Department of Telecommunications (DOT) / Department of Telecom Services (DTS) / Department of Telecom Operations (DTO) who retired prior to 01.10.2000 is solely borne by Government of India and the BSNL will have no liability in respect of these employees. In respect of employees who are absorbed in BSNL, the liability on account of pensionary benefits shall be fully borne by Government while BSNL will continue to discharge pension liability by way of pension contribution in accordance with FR-116 for the period they so work/worked. The revision entails an estimated recurring annual expenditure of approximately Rs 129.63 crore for pensioners and Rs 24.93 crore for family pensioners and arrears from 2013-14 would be Rs 239.92 crore approximately for pensioners and Rs 44.62 Crore approximately for family pensioners. Approximately118500 pensioners all over India will be benefitted by this revision. This revision will fulfill the long pending demand of revision of pension of BSNL absorbed employees who retired prior to 10.06.2013 and will bring the pensioners at par with the serving employees of BSNL by removing the anomalies. It will help in reducing the financial burden of BSNL and removing prospects of industrial unrest in BSNL while fulfilling the commitment of Government.
Background: The decision of the Cabinet has come in the wake of an anomalous situation created in the difference of pension formula among the BSNL retirees who retired before and after 10.06.2013. Further, the decision regarding pensionary liability is on persistent demand from various quarters and a series of deliberations at different levels to fulfill the assurance given by the Government before corporatization i.e. before formation of BSNL.

30.06.2016:

INCREASE IN IDA W.E.F. 1.7.2016:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers, IDA is to be increased w.e.f. 1.7.2016 by 2.4% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and by 4% where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.

29.06.2016:

CABINET APPROVES IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS OF SEVENTH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION:

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the implementation of the recommendations of 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) on pay and pensionary benefits. It will come into effect from 01.01.2016. The cabinet has in general accepted most of the recommendations of the 7th CPC. For the purpose of revision of pay and pension, a fitment factor of 2.57 will be applied across all Levels in the Pay Matrices. After taking into account the DA at prevailing rate, the salary/pension of all government employees/pensioners will be raised by at least 14.29 % as on 01.01.2016. Gratuity ceiling enhanced from Rs. 10 to 20 lakh. The ceiling on gratuity will increase by 25 % whenever DA rises by 50 %. This is in line with one of our submissions to the seventh CPC. The general recommendations of the Commission on pension and related benefits have been approved by the Cabinet. Both the options recommended by the Commission as regards pension revision have been accepted subject to feasibility of their implementation. Revision of pension using the second option based on fitment factor of 2.57 shall be implemented immediately. A Committee is being constituted to address the implementation issues anticipated in the first formulation. The first formulation may be made applicable if its implementation is found feasible after examination by proposed Committee which is to submit its Report within 4 months.  View the Cabinet Decision

27.06.2016:

AIBSNLREA BRANCH FORMED IN TIRUNELVELI, TAMILNADU:

Inaugural meeting of AIBSNLREA Tirunelveli Branch, Tamilnadu was held on 21st June 2016 and Shri SSA Samsu Mohideen, Retd.SDE, Shri S.Arumugam, Retd. JTO and Shri S.Muthukumar, Retd. JTO were elected as President, Secretary and Finance Secretary respectively. Shri Meenakshisundaram Retd. SDE was elected as delegate to the AIC to be held at Bhubaneswar.

26.06.2016:

ALLOWING NOTIONAL ANNUAL INCREMENT TO THE PENSIONERS WHO COMPLETE ONE FULL YEAR’S SERVICE ON THE DATE OF THEIR RETIREMENT BUT FAIL TO GET THEIR ANNUAL INCREMENT WHICH FALL ON THE NEXT DAY OF THEIR RETIREMENT:

Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) has not agreed to AIBSNLREA’s request to allow grant of notional annual increment to the pensioners who complete full one year’s service on the date of their retirement but fail to earn normal increment since the date of next increment falls on the very next day of their retirement. The issue was taken up by the Association with Department of Personnel & Training (DoP&T) which had forwarded the representation to Ministry of Finance. The Association had taken up this case to enable such pensioners to get benefit of fixation of pension.  View the MOF letter

26.06.2016:

BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA AT HAMIRPUR IN HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE FORMED:

A branch of AIBSNLREA at Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh State was formed with the following Office bearers:- 1. President: Shri Kanshi Ram Chouhan, DE (Retd), 2. Branch Secretary: Shri D.L.R.Daroch, AGM (Retd), 3. Financial Secretary: Shri S.L.Syal, Retd, DE (Retd), 4. Organizing Secretary: Shri Puranchand, DE (Retd), 5. Executive Committee Member: Shri Chuni Lal, DE (Retd).

25.06.2016:

BENEFIT OF PAY FIXATION TO THE ABSORBED GROUP C & D EMPLOYEES OF BSNL IN TERMS OF AN OPTION TO RETAIN GOVERNMENT PAY SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER – AIBSNLREA WRITES TO GM(ESTT), BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE TO SUPPLY THE REQUISITE INFORMATION AS ASKED FOR BY DOT:

Having received the information that Department of Telecommunication had asked BSNL Corporate Office to supply some information as wanted by Internal Finance Division of DOT and DOP&PW to examine the above issue, AIBSNLREA has since requested General Manager (Estt), BSNL Corporate Office to supply the requisite information early to DOT.  View the letter

24.06.2016:

AIBSNLREA, EAST GODAVARI BRANCH FELICITATES GMTD:

The members of East Godavari Branch of AIBSNLREA felicitated GMTD East Godavari District Sri A Sreenivasa Rao on his request transfer to Visakhapatnam at 10.30hrs on 23-06-2016. He did a lot to help the pensioners. All the five hospitals in the SSA are empanelled because of his personal initiative. All the medical bills upto February 2016 were also cleared in the month of March 2016, because of his personal intervention. Earlier, the medical bills were not being cleared in the SSA for years together due to several reasons. He used to clear the applications seeking permission for indoor treatment within no time. The delegation of the members thanked and honored him with shawl and presented a bouquet on behalf of the Association.  View photographs

22.06.2016:

DOP&PW ISSUES ACTION TAKEN REPORT ON THE DECISIONS TAKEN IN THE 27TH MEETING OF SCOVA:

DOP&PW has issued the Action Taken Report (ATR) on the decisions taken on various items in the agenda discussed in the 27th Meeting of SCOVA. The ATR seems to contain old status and further progress on the issues could be known only after the same are discussed in the ensuing meeting to be held on 27th June, 2016. The items listed against SL No. 2 (Insurance Scheme for pensioners including those residing in non-CGHS areas), 5 (Anomaly in fixation of pension to DoT employees absorbed in BSNL, who retired between 1.10.2000 and 31.7.2001), 6 (Merger of 78.2% IDA with basic pension benefit to the absorbed BSNL pensioners) and 10 ( Extension of CGHS facilities to retired BSNL employees – Issue of follow up orders by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and fixation of rates of contribution and ward entitlement by Department of Telecom) are of greater interest to the absorbed BSNL pensioners. The ATR, issued vide DOP&PW OM No. 42-05/2016-P&PW(G) dated 22.06.2016, specially with reference to above items may be read to know the details.  View extract from ATR

22.06.2016:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S LETTER IN THE MATTER OF ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARD TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS TO DOT:

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has since forwarded AIBSNLREA’s letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/19 dated 18.05.2016, about inaction by DOT to get the Identity Cards issued to the absorbed BSNL pensioners in the revised format and linking the Aadhar number as prescribed in DOP&PW No. 41/21/2000-P&PW(D) dated 12.08.2015 [view posting dated 20.6.2015 in this website to read the letter]. DOP&PW has asked DOT to take further necessary action on the matter. The letter was addressed by the Association to Secretary (Pension).  View the DoP&PW letter

22.06.2016:

28th MEETING OF SCOVA TO THE HELD ON 27th JUNE, 2016:

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare has since notified that the 28th Meeting of Standing Committee of Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA) will be held under the chairmanship of Minister of State ( PP) at 11 AM on 27th June, 2016 in New Delhi. Action Taken Report of last meeting is yet to be circulated.

21.06.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION), DOP&PW REQUESTING ISSUE OF CLARIFICATION REGARDING APPLICABILITY OF THE EXISTING ORDER ON CALCULATION OF PENSION FOR THE PRE-2006 PENSIONERS:

In the backdrop of the OM dated 6.4.2016 issued by DOP&PW for delinking of 33 years of qualifying service for revision of pension of pre-2006 Pensioners, AIBSNLREA has requested Secretary (Pension) to issue clarification “whether the existing order on calculation of pension to the retiring employees as 50% of the emolument or average of last 10 months emoluments whichever is beneficial to the retiree stands extended to the pre-2006 pensioners also”.  View the letter

20.06.2016:

NON-SANCTION OF EX-GRATIA LUMP SUM COMPENSATION TO THE FAMILY OF LATE SHRI K D MAURYA, EX-SR. SDE (OFC), JAUNPUR- AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE MATTER WITH DOT:

AIBSNLREA addresses a letter to Member (Services), Telecom Commission regarding abnormal delay in sanction of lump sum compensation to the family of Late Shri K D Maurya, ex-Sr SDE(OFC), Jaunpur under NTR Delhi who expired in a road accident while on duty and travelling in a departmental vehicle on 9.5.2000. Pointing out that BSNL Corporate Office has since sent the case to the Pension Section of DOT, the Association has requested Member (Services) for expeditious issue of the sanction order for payment of ex-gratia lump sum compensation to the family of Late Shri K D Maurya.  View the letter

18.06.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO PRINCIPAL CCA, DELHI REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF FAMILY PENSION UNDER EXTRA ORDINARY PENSION RULES TO THE WIFE OF LATE SHRI K D MAURYA, EX-SR SDE (OFC), JAUNPUR:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to Principal CCA, Delhi drawing his attention to the above case in which the family pension under Extra-Ordinary Pension Rules, 1939 with enhanced pension at the rate of 60% for life has not been sanctioned till this day even after seven years of tragic death of Shri K D Maurya, ex-Sr SDE(OFC) in a road accident while on duty and travelling in a departmental vehicle. AIBSNLREA has requested for his intervention in the matter since the case has been sent to CAO (Pension) in his office for orders.  View the letter

17.06.2016:

CABINET NOTE SENT TO CABINET SECRETARIAT:

Finally, the cabinet note on revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% IDA for the absorbed BSNL pensioners has been sent to the cabinet secretariat today morning, with requisite number of copies.

14.06.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON REVISION OF PENSION WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS NOW ALL SET TO GO TO THE CABINET SECRETARIAT:

The concerned file on the above issue which was put up to the senior Officers of DOT, after addressing the deficiencies as pointed out earlier by the Cabinet Secretariat, has since reached the Pension Section of DOT. Now efforts are being made by DOT to send the requisite number of copies of the Cabinet Note to the Cabinet Secretariat to-morrow to seek approval of the Cabinet on its proposal on revision of pension and also sharing of pension liability between DOT and BSNL.

13.06.2016:

WRITE UP ON REVISION OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

Just a week ago on 06.06.2016, we hosted an article in this website on revision of pension for absorbed BSNL pensioners. Since lot of confusion and hype had been created by some serving unions/associations and also by a few pensioners associations as well, we thought of a detailed and elaborate article on this issue. Since we knew that it would be a lengthy one, we split it into two parts and therefore at the end of the earlier part, we mentioned “to be continued”. But it seems that many of our viewers have already gone through the write up in detail so early and even some of them have sent their appreciation to us and asking for early release of the rest of the article as well. We appreciate the enthusiasm shown by our learned viewers in analyzing the issue. Thus, in continuation of the earlier write up, we are now hosting in our website the second part of the write up on the same subject by Shri S.Ratnasubramanian, our Joint Secretary (South).  Click Here for the second part of the write-up

10.06.2016:

GOVERNMENT ISSUES GAZETTE NOTIFICATION APPOINTING THIRD PAY REVISION COMMITTEE FOR CPSE EXECUTIVES:

Government of India has issued Gazette Notification conveying its decision to appoint the 3rd Pay Revision Committee in order to review and revise th existing structure of emoluments of the CPSE Executives. Justice Satish Chandra (Retd) is the Chairman of the Committee. Shri Jugal Mahopatra, Ex-IAS Officer, Prof. Manoj Panda, Director, Institute for Economic Growth and Shri Shailendra Pal Singh, Ex-Director (HR), NTPC Ltd are the Members of the Committee. While Secretary, DPE will be Ex-officio Member, Jt.Secretary/Addl.Secretary, DPE will be Member Secretary. While finalising its report, the Committee will also take into account the report of the VII Pay Commission. The Committee will make its recommendations to the Government within a period of six months from the date of its constitution. The decision of the Government on the recommendations of the Committee will take effect from 1.1.2017.  View the Gazette Notification

10.06.2016:

AIBSNLREA OPENS BRANCH IN COIMBATORE, TAMILNADU:

The inaugural meeting of AIBSNLREA Coimbatore Branch, Tamilnadu was held on 8.6.2016 at Sri Krishna Vilas, Coimbatore. Retired Executives of BSNL assembled and discussed about the exclusive issues faced by BSNL pensioners and decided to form AIBSNLREA branch at Coimbatore. Office-bearers were elected unanimously with Shri M.Ponnuswamy DGM (Retd) as President, Shri R.Damodaran SDE (Retd) as Secretary and Shri J.Ramalingam SDE (Retd) as Finance Secretary. Smt.V.Usha, Retd. CAO was elected as delegate of the Coimbatore branch to attend the AIC at Bhubaneswar.  View the list of office-bearers

07.06.2016:

ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA AT BHUBANESWAR – ANOTHER CIRCULAR LETTER ISSUED:

AIBSNLREA has now issued another circular letter mainly for the information of the participants about the AIC being held at Bhubaneswar and its arrangements. Those who are participating in the AIC must read the same.  View the Circular  View the OTDC packages

06.06.2016:

E-JOURNAL JUNE 2016 ISSUE:

June 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

06.06.2016:

REVISION OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS:

We are shocked to find that some over enthusiastic persons and Organizations are approaching DoT for taking up the revision of pension of absorbed BSNL pensioners with the Expert Committee asking for the same fitment formula for revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners as recommended by 7th CPC for the Central Government employees and its past pensioners. DOT is also being asked by some persons to revise the pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016. Another organisation apart from taking up the same issue with DoT wants to take up the same issue of pension revision of absorbed BSNL pensioners with DPE also and wants the same to be included in the terms of reference to 3rd PRC. We could only feel sorry for those who refuse to learn anything even after past experience. Whatever may be their expectation out of these proposals, their references to DoT/DPE are misplaced. One has to bear in mind that revision of pension of the past pensioners are governed under some settled principles and law. Revision of pension of past pensioners has to take place only from the date the pay scales of the serving employees are revised. The cause of action for revision of pension of BSNL absorbed pensioners arises only when the pay scales of serving employees are revised. Revision of pension of the past pensioners is directly linked with the revision of pay scales of the serving employees and also from the same date. This is not our opinion, but it is the judgment of Hon’ble Supreme Court. This is therefore a settled law. Revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners is therefore due only w.e.f. 1.1.2017. It cannot be advanced to an earlier date. In this regard, we are hosting in our web site a detailed and elaborate write up on the subject by Shri S Ratnasubamanian, our Joint Secretary (South) to clear many doubts.  Click Here for the write-up

05.06.2016:

EAST GODAVARI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA SUBMITS MEMORANDUM TO MOC&IT:

East Godavari Branch of AIBSNLREA welcomed Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of Communications & IT by presenting him a bouquet at 17.30 hrs on 4.6.2016 in the Rangaraya Medical College Auditorium, Kakinada. They also submitted a Memorandum highlighting some long pending grievances of the absorbed BSNL pensioners. The delegation from the Association comprised of District President Sri GV Ramakrishna, Branch Secretary Varaprasad GSVSS, Finance Secretary Sri KBS Naidu, Shri Gandhi Ch, Shri Baby Rao, Shri Bhagiratha Rao PVV, Shri Raja Gopala Rao and Shri Satya Rao T.  View the Memorandum

03.06.2016:

PAY PARITY BETWEEN BSNL AND MTNL EXECUTIVES WITH EFFECT FROM 1.1.2007:

The Management Committee of BSNL is reported to have recommended replacement of E-1 to E-6 IDA Pay Scales with E-2 to E-7 IDA Scales for its Executives w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and is sending a proposal to this effect to DOT for approval. This has a great significance because ever since DOT decided in the year 2014 to allow Government pension to the MTNL Employees at par with BSNL Employees, AIBSNLREA started demanding raising of the pay scales of BSNL Executives w.e.f. 1.10.2000 to the level of the pay scales that were granted to MTNL Executives and also allow resultant benefit to the pensioners. It may be recalled that BSNL Executives were granted one stage lower pay scales compared to the pay scales granted to the Executives of MTNL. DOT had justified this decision of granting higher pay scales to MTNL Executives by stating that Government would pay pension to BSNL Employees and not to the MTNL Employees. But once the MTNL Employees have also been extended the benefit of Government pension w.e.f. 1.10.2000, there cannot be any justification for lower pay scales for BSNL Executives. Now, if DOT accepts the recommendation of BSNL to upgrade the pay scales w.e.f. 1.1.2007, the pension of some of the pre-2007 pensioners will have to be again revised. Similarly, some of the post-2007 pensioners will also get their pay and pension revised. In addition, additional benefit on account of DCRG, CVP and leave encashment will have to be extended to these post 2007 pensioners. But the disparity in pay scales/pension from 1.10.2000 to 31.12.2006 will continue. Now we are to follow further development.

02.06.2016:

FINAL CABINET NOTE ON REVISION OF PENSION:

The Pension Section of DOT is still waiting to receive back the file that was submitted for the perusal of the senior officers after the deficiencies, as pointed out earlier by the Cabinet Secretariat, were removed. The requisite number of copies of Cabinet Note will be dispatched after the said file is back.

01.06.2016:

INTRODUCTION OF ONLINE TRACKING SYSTEM TO KNOW THE STATUS OF MEDICAL CLAIMS BY THE BSNL PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS - AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD, BSNL:

In the background of the acute problems that the BSNL pensioners/family pensioners do face to know the status of their medical claim bills, AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to CMD, BSNL requesting him to introduce one online tracking system “in all the BSNL Offices where the medical claim bills are processed and payment made. Information on the status of the claim bills at every stage of disposal should be made available. The concerned pensioners/family pensioners should be able to view the status from computers. This will certainly go a long way to remove a genuine difficulty of the pensioners”.  View the letter

31.05.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE OF NON-HOLDING OF PENSION ADALAT AT REGULAR INTERVALS BY THE PRINCIPAL CCAs/CCAs:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Secretary (Telecom) bring to his notice that “the Pension Adalats are not being held on regular basis and no fixed interval to hold the Pension Adalat is being followed. Moreover, the pensioners/family pensioners are not getting timely information about holding of Pension Adalat and to file their grievances. Thus, the very purpose to introduce holding of Pension Adalat is being defeated”. The Association has also requested that “The Pr. CCAs/CCAs be advised to arrange holding of Pension Adalat on quarterly basis and give wide publicity about the venue, date and time of holding the Pension Adalat. In addition to the website of the Pr. CCAs/CCAs, the information may be uploaded in the websites of all Telecom Circles and even SSAs falling within the limit of the concerned Pr. CCAs/CCAs”.  View the letter

31.05.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, TRICHY BRANCH HELD:

AIBSNLREA Trichy Branch (Tamilnadu) held its first General Body meeting after its formation on 29th May 2016 at 5 PM at Trichy. Shri R.Venkataraman Rtd. DGM Trichy presided over the meeting. Shri K.Meyyalahan Branch Secretary welcomed all the members present in the meeting……. [For full text of the Report, please go to Tamilnadu State Section of State News Page of this website].

31.05.2016:

BIMONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, RAIPUR BRANCH HELD:

The bimonthly General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, Raipur Branch (Chhattisgarh State) was held on 20th May 2016 at Gandhi Udyan. The meeting was presided over by the president Shri P Z Choradia, Retd. AGM. Large number of members attended the meeting. Shri G P Pandey Branch Secretary addressed the meeting. …. [For full report, please visit Chhattishgarh State Section of State News page in this website]

29.05.2016:

BIMONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, AKOLA BRANCH HELD:

AIBSNLREA Akola (MH) Branch held its Bimonthly General Body meeting on 10th May 2016 at 04.30 PM at the residence of Shri S.M. Harale Rtd. SDE Akola. Shri S.K. Kulkarni Rtd. DGM Buldhana presided over the meeting. About 20 members were present in the meeting. Shri A.G. Nema Branch Secretary welcomed all the members present in the meeting……. [For full text of the Report, please go to Maharashtra State Sectuion of State News Page of this website].

27.05.2016:

FINAL CABINET NOTE ON REVISION OF PENSION YET TO BE SENT TO CABINET SECRETARIAT:

Though all the papers are said to be ready, the concerned Section of DOT till today could not send the requisite copes of Final Cabinet Note to Cabinet Secretariat since it is yet to get back the file which was submitted for the perusal of the senior officers after removing the deficiencies as pointed out earlier by the Cabinet Secretariat. Once the file is received back, the requisite copies of Cabinet Note will be dispatched.

25.05.2016:

FINAL CABINET NOTE ON REVISION OF PENSION:

Despite the all out efforts taken, DOT could not send the requisite copies of Final Cabinet to Cabinet Secretariat yesterday. This is now ready in all respects and is said to be sent to the Cabinet Secretariat within the next two days.

24.05.2016:

DELEGATES/PARTICIPANTS FOR THE AIC, BHUBANESWAR:

We had already informed that most of the delegates would be accommodated in the main Hotel in which the Conference will be held. We had also been requesting the participants to intimate us about their journey particulars. We are now happy to inform that the capacity of the main Hotel is already full. Others, as and when their journey particulars are received, would be accommodated in the nearby similar category Hotels with same comfort and facilities as per the agreement/MOU with the main Hotel Management.

24.05.2016:

BSNL SENDS REMINDER TO WEST BENGAL CIRCLE, KOLKATA REGARDING THE CASE OF WRONG FIXATION OF PAY/PENSION OF ARABINDA CHAUDHURY, RETD EE (CIVIL):

In our posting dated 07.02.2016 in this website, we reported that PGM(BW) had written a letter dated 03.02.2016 to the CGMT, West Bengal Circle requesting to supply the copy of the Circle Office letter No. WB/TA/GE/PF/C(58)/86 dated 13.12.2006 with copy of the representation dated 22.08.2006 of Shri Arabinda Chowdhury and also to furnish detailed comments. Since the Corporate Office did not receive any communication from West Bengal Circle, Kolkata, it has issued a reminder to the CGMT, Kolkata vide its No. PF/Arabinda Choudhury/Rtd EE/M(BW-CPC)/2015 dated 12.5.2016 and also endorsed a copy to AIBSNLREA w.r.t. its letter dated 25.04.2016.  View the letter

23.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR PENSION REVISION ETC:

On our queries with DoT, we are informed that the minor corrections, as required by the Cabinet Secretariat, have already been made in the final cabinet note and fifty copies of the cabinet note are about to be sent to the Cabinet Secretariat by tomorrow.

22.05.2016:

AIBSNLREA SENDS AN APPEAL TO THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA ON THE DEFERRED OPTION CASE OF THE GROUP C EMPLOYEES ABSORBED IN BSNL:

AIBSNLREA has sent an appeal to President of India, copy of which has been endorsed to Prime Minister, MOC&IT and MOS(PP), on non-extending the benefit of option to retain CDA pay scale till their promotion or retirement whichever is earlier to the concerned pensioners which was offered to the Group C&D employees while inviting option for their absorption in BSNL. The Association has urged that “we seek for your kind intervention in the matter for immediate implementation of the said offer. This must not have been denied once the absorption has already taken place. We, therefore, make an earnest appeal to you for an early restoration of the said benefit to the affected absorbed Group C Employees so that their pay and pensionary benefits are properly fixed and disbursed”.  View the letter

22.05.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF LUCKNOW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA:

Lucknow Branch of AIBSNLREA held a General Body meeting on 6.5.2016 in the Recreation Club at Kaiser Bagh Telephone Exchange Campus under the chairmanship of Jagdish Prasad. The House discussed at length on the orders for additional free calls and the unlimited calls offered during night hours and also the legal recourses to be taken on implementation of fixation benefit by merger of 78.2% DA w.e.f. 1.1.2007 after implementation of the proposal of the DOT... [ Please visit UP Section in State News page of this website for the full report].

20.05.2016:

ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARDS TO BSNL PENSIONERS – AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION) ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF DOP&PW OM DATED 12.08.2015:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to Secretary (Pension), vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/19 dated 18.05.2016, about inaction by DOT to get the Identity Cards issued to the absorbed BSNL pensioners in the revised format and linking the Aadhar number as prescribed in DOP&PW No. 41/21/2000-P&PW(D) dated 12.08.2015. The Association has alao sought for the intervention of the Secretary (Pension) so that 'DOT takes immediate action to get your above quoted orders implemented in respect of the absorbed BSNL pensioners whose pension is being paid by the Government under CCS (Pension) Rules 1972’.  View the letter

19.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR PENSION REVISION ETC:

Sources say that no comments/views on the Cabinet Note has been so far received from PMO, but a reference has come from Cabinet Secretariat which has reached the Secretary (T).

18.05.2016:

QUESTION ON BSNL PENSION RULES RAISED IN LOK SABHA:

An unstarred question was raised in Lok Sabha on 4th May, 2016 regarding the rules/guidelines for pension and revision of pension of DOT Employees absorbed in BSNL and other related issues. The reply given by MOC&IT does not disclose anything new. These are already known to us. However, this might open the eyes of those who believe that pension can be revised even without revision of pay scales of the serving employees.  View the Question & Answer

16.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR PENSION REVISION ETC:

Department of Telecommunications has not so far received any views/comments from PMO/ Cabinet Secretariat on the Cabinet Note. Still waiting to receive response.

13.05.2016:

MINISTRY OF FINANCE REPLIES TO THE LETTER OF AIBSNLREA ADDRESSED TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA REGARDING REDUCTION OF RATES OF INTEREST IN THE SENIOR CITIZEN SAVINGS SCHEME:

AIBSNLREA had earlier represented to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India expressing serious concern and deep anguish of the pensioners on the decision of the Government to reduce the rate of interest on deposits in Senior Citizens Saving Scheme. The Association had also appealed to the PM to restore the rate of interest on the deposits under Senior Citizens Savings Scheme. [View posting dated 21.03.2016 in this website to read the letter]. The PMO had also forwarded the said representation to Secretary, Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare to take appropriate action on the matter [View posting dated 01/04/2016 in this website to read the PMO letter]. Now Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) has replied to our said representation and stated that “high small savings interest rates limit the banking sector’s ability to lower deposit rates in response to monetary policy of the Reserve Bank of India” and therefore “by quarterly re-fixing the Small Savings interest rates the transmission of the lower interest rates in the economy has been eased” to help India transition to a lower interest rate economy. It has further been stated in the reply that Government had taken a comprehensive view on the social goals of certain National Small Savings Schemes and the issue raised by the Association “is a policy related issue and the same has been noted”  View the MoF letter

12.05.2016:

28th MEETING OF SCOVA STANDS POSTPONED:

Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare, vide its F. No. 42/05/2016-P&PW(G) dated 10.05.2016, has notified postponement of 28th Meeting of Standing Committee of Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA) scheduled to be held on 16th May 2016 to 27th June 2016 in view of assembly elections in few states.

10.05.2016:

DOT ENDORSES THE OM DATED 06.04.2016 ISSUED BY DOP&PW ON REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS BY DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS:

Department of Telecommunication has since endorsed, vide its No. 40-04/2013-Pen (T) dated 05.05.2016, the OM dated 06.04.2016 issued by Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare on revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners by delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years. It may be recalled that AIBSNLREA had earlier vide its letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2016/14 dated 26.04.2016 [view posting dated 27.04.2016 in this website to read this letter] requested DDG (Estt), Department of Telecommunications to expedite its endorsement to Pr CCAs/CCAs and others.  View the DOT endorsement

10.05.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION) ABOUT INACTION OF DOT TO RESTORE THE BENEFIT OF 2nd ACP WRONGLY WITHDRAWN FROM SOME SDEs (CIVIL) OF WEST BENGAL CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since addressed a letter to Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW about the inaction of Department of Telecommunications on the representation to restore the benefit of 2nd ACP granted to some retired Executives of Civil Wing, BSNL, West Bengal Circle. These executives were rightly granted the benefit of 2nd ACP in accordance with the rules, but subsequently the benefit was unjustifiably withdrawn. The Association had earlier taken up the issue with Secretary (Telecom), but there seems to be no action to resolve the matter. The Association now seeks the intervention of Secretary (Pension) to get this long pending grievance redressed.  View the letter

10.05.2016:

FURNISHING DETAILS OF ARRIVAL-DEPARTURE PARTICULARS OF THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE AIC AT BHUBANESWAR:

All Branches/participants in the All India Conference of AIBSNLREA being held at Bhubaneswar on 2nd and 3rd July 2016 are requested to immediately furnish their arrival-departure particulars as in the attached format. The same may be mailed at gensecaibsnlrea@yahoo.com. This is to arrange proper allotment of rooms for them in the Hotel and ensure their comfortable stay.  View the Format

09.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

Department of Telecommunications now waits for the response from Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on its Final Cabinet Note proposing revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners retired prior to 10.06.2013 and also addressing the issue of sharing pension liability between DOT and BSNL. Further action by DOT is expected after a few days, since the Note has been sent only on last week end.

09.05.2016:

ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, GUJARAT STATE BRANCH:

Gujarat State Branch of AIBSNLREA held it’s AGM on 02.05.2016 at Ahmedabad Medical Association Hall at Ahmedabad. The meeting started with lightening of lamp followed by prayer by Shri P K Shah Retd, AGM ATD. President Shri P. B. Parmar welcomed all the participants and informed about approval of Cabinet note on the proposal regarding merger of 78.2% for fitment of pension by Minister of Communications & IT. ………. [ Please visit Gujarat Section in State News page of this website for the full report].

06.05.2016:

E-JOURNAL MAY 2016 ISSUE:

May 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

04.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

In continuation of our last posting on the same subject on 03.05.2016, we are to confirm that the Final Cabinet Note will first be sent to PMO (Prime Minister’s Office). The copies of the Note cannot be circulated till then. If PMO has no comment to make or no communication is received after 3 days, the Final Cabinet Note can be sent to the Cabinet Secretariat. As we know, the final Cabinet Note, after its Hindi translation, was re-submitted for perusal of the higher Officers and onward transmission through Secretary (T) to Prime Minister’s Office. The same has not left DOT till writing of this text.

04.05.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF SANGRUR BRANCH HELD:

A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Sangrur Branch was held on 24.4.2016 at Kaula Park, Sangrur. Two new life members (S/Shri H S Nijjar, Retd DE and Surjit Singh, Retd DE) were enrolled in the Branch meeting raising the total number of Life membership to 16...[For full Report please go to State News Page and click Punjab section in this website].

03.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

When inquired before lunch today, it was gathered from the concerned Officer dealing with the case that the file containing the Cabinet Note was yet to be received back by him. In a new development, it was also told that the said Cabinet Note, when received, will be sent first to PMO. Thereafter, it will go to the Cabinet Secretariat. We are trying to confirm this from other informed sources and also to know the role of PMO in such cases.

02.05.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

Now all the procedural and administrative requirements to send the Cabinet Note to the Cabinet Secretariat are being complied with in DOT. It is expected that the said Cabinet Note will be sent to the designated Officer in the Cabinet Secretariat very shortly for further disposal of the issue.

02.05.2016:

RESTORATION OF BENEFIT OF MEDICAL ALLOWANCE FOR OUTDOOR TREATMENT WITHOUT VOUCHER FOR THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES - AIBSNLREA REQUESTS CMD, BSNL TO EXPEDITE DECISION ON THE ISSUE:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to the Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited requesting him for an early decision on the above long pending issue which is under consideration in Corporate Office since long. The Association, in its letter, has mentioned about the difficulties of the pensioners in their advance age to get treatment at the clinics of the doctors, submit claims and pursue for their settlement in BSNL Offices.  View the letter

01.05.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (TELECOM) FOR EARLY SETTLEMENT OF THE CASE TO REMOVE THE ANOMALY IN FIXATION OF PENSION TO DOT EMPLOYEES ABSORBED IN BSNL WHO RETIRED BETWEEN 1.10.2000 AND 31.7.2001:

AIBSNLREA has again written a letter to Secretary (Telecom) with a copy endorsed to Secretary (Pension) requesting him for an early settlement of the above issue which stands unresolved since long. The Association points out to the fact that in the minutes of the SCOVA meeting last held on 13.10.2015 and issued by DOP&PW it was recorded that “DOT was asked to finalise the proposal by 31.10.2015.” The Association also mentions that BSNL vide its No. 40-27/2011-Pen(B) dated 13.04.2016 has informed AIBSNLREA that DoT vide its letter dated 10/04/2015 had asked all Pr CCAs/CCAs to reconcile pension data with their Pension drawing authorities and Pension Sanctioning/Processing Authorities… . In the said background AIBSNLREA has now requested Secretary (Telecom) to resolve this genuine and long pending grievance of a section of absorbed BSNL pensioners early.  View the letter

30.04.2016:

EXTENSIOIN OF CGHS FACILITIES TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (TELECOM) REQUESTING HIM EARLY SETTLEMENT OF FIXATIOON OF RATES OF CONTRIBUTION AND WARD ENTITLEMENT:

AIBSNLREA has now written a letter to Secretary (Telecom) with a copy endorsed to Secretary (Pension) urging him for an early settlement of fixation of rates of contribution and ward entitlement to the retired BSNL employees, so that the Orders already issued to allow the retired BSNL employees who are in receipt of Central Pension to have an option either to choose CGHS or BSNL MRS is implemented at the earliest. The issue is an item in the agenda for discussion in the last few meetings of SCOVA and in its last meeting held on 13.10.2015, it was decided that “Department of Telecom was asked to finalise the proposal quickly and send it to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by 31.10.2015.”  View the letter

29.04.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, AMBALA BRANCH HELD:

A general body meeting of Ambala Branch (Haryana State) of AIBSNLREA was held on 27th April 2016 under the president-ship of Shri P.C Chauhan. 30 members of the branch participated in the meeting... [For full Report please go to State News Page and click Haryana section in this website].

29.04.2016:

AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD IT’S BI-MONTHLY MEETING:

Bi-monthly meeting of Amaravati branch (Maharashtra State) was held on 26/04/2016 in the Conference hall of o/o GMT Amaravati. Total 16 members were present. Shri V G Dakhode, Branch Secretary first gave the information about merger of 78.2% IDA for fitment benefit for the BSNL pensioners who retired prior to 10.06.2013.... [For full Report please go to State News Page and click Maharashtra section in this website].

28.04.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

The Hindi translation of the final cabinet note has been received in the Pension section, paving way for onward transmission of the final cabinet note to the Cabinet Secretariat.

27.04.2016:

CABINET NOTE ON MERGER OF 78.2% IDA FOR EXTENDING THE BENEFIT OF FIXATION OF REVISED PENSION TO THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED PRIOR TO 10.06.2013:

The final Cabinet Note on the above issue and also addressing the issue of present arrangement of sharing pension liability between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio, as expected, was duly approved by the competent authority i.e. MOC&IT. But the Pension Section of DOT is still waiting to get its translated version in Hindi from the DoT’s Official Language Section which translates the Notes/Documents in Hindi. This may be received back shortly and multiple copies of the Note both in English and Hindi will be sent to the designated Officer in Cabinet Secretariat. The proposal in the note normally goes under the signature of the Joint Secretary.

27.04.2016:

DOP&PW OM DATED 06.04.2016 ON REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006 PENSIONERS- DELINKING OF REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS – AIBSNLREA REQUESTS DDG (ESTT), DOT TO EXPEDITE ITS ENDORSEMENT:

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare vide it’s No 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 6.4.2016 has issued an OM on “Revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners – delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years” [View posting dated 08.04.2016 in this website]. AIBSNLREA has now requested Dy. Director General (Estt), Department of Telecommunications to expedite its endorsement to CCAs and others concerned offices so that the benefit of the OM can be expeditiously extended to those DOT and absorbed BSNL pensioners who are to be befitted by this decision of the Government.  View the letter

26.04.2016:

NON-SETTLEMENT OF WRONG FIXATION OF PAY/PENSION OF SHRI ARABINDA CHAUDHURY, RETD EE (CIVIL), WEST BENGAL:

AIBSNLREA has requested BSNL Corporate Office to expeditiously process and settle the above case which is pending for over last 10 years. It may be recalled that BSNL, in response to our letter, had earlier requested CGMT, West Bengal Circle to send some papers pertaining to the above case [View posting dated 07.02.2016 in this website]. Assuming that BSNL has obtained all the papers, AIBSNLREA has now requested to expedite the case.  View the letter

26.04.2016:

GUJARAT STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ANNUAL GB MEETING ON 02.05.2016:

Gujarat State Branch of AIBSNLREA will be holding its Annual General Body Meeting at 15.00 hours of 02.05.2016 at Ahmedabad Medical Association Hall, near Nataraj Cinema, Ashram Road, Ahmedabad. Members who have completed 70 years of age as on 31.03.2016 with at least one year membership will also be honored in the meeting.

25.04.2016:

INTRODUCTION OF HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PENSIONERS INCLUDING THOSE RESIDING IN NON-CGHS AREAS:

It may be recalled that Government was proposing to introduce a Health Insurance Scheme for the pensioners including those residing in non-CGHS areas and AIBSNLREA was also pursuing the case. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, in response to a letter on the issue from AIBSNLREA, had informed the Association that the said Ministry has circulated a draft EFC Note to the concerned Ministries/Departments for seeking their comments [view posting dated 27.02.2016 in this website]. Now AIBSNLREA has written another letter to the same Ministry requesting for an early decision on the matter.  View the letter

25.04.2016:

ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA:

Notice for holding the AIC of AIBSNLREA at Bhubaneswar has been issued. This has since been sent to all Branches at their e-mail ids. Those who have not received the same, may intimate their e-mail id so that the copy of the Notice can be sent to them also. However, the copy of Notice has been made available in the AIC-BBS page on the left hand side of the main page of this website.

21.04.2016:

AGB OF AIBSNLREA, CHENNAI BRANCH HELD:

The Annual General Body Meeting of All India BSNL Retired Executives’ Association, Chennai branch, was held on 20-4-2016 at Hotel Kanchi,Chennai from 10 AM. Shri V.Sivaswamy President, presided over the meeting and large number of retired executives of Chennai and Tamilnadu participated (49 members attended). Shri R. Kasiviswanathan, Secretary, placed the annual report for the year ending 2015 and the same was approved after discussion. Shri C.R. Rajasekaran, Financial Secretary submitted the financial statement for the relevant period and it was passed unanimously. …. [For full Report please go to State News Page and click Tamilnadu section in this website].

21.04.2016:

BHOPAL BRANCH (MP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS AGM:

Bhopal Branch of AIBSNLREA held its Annual General Body Meeting on 17-04-2016. After discussion of various issues concerning the BSNL pensioners, election of new Office bearers of the Branch was also held. Followings were elected as office bearers of Bhopal Branch:-
1. President: Shri K. Nagarajan, Retd DGM(F), 2. Vice President: Shri O.P. Sharma, Retd DE, 3. Secretary:- Shri H.M. Bajpai, Retd. CAO, 4. Jt.Secretary: Shri M.P. Tiwari, Ret. SDE 5. Fin Secretary: Shri P.K. Gosh, Retd. SDE.

20.04.2016:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 12/03/2015 ADDRESSED TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA ON REMOVAL OF ANOMALY IN PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED BETWEEN 1.10.2000 AND 31.07.2001:

AIBSNLRREA had earlier represented to the Prime Minister of India and endorsed a copy of the same to Minister of State for (PP) on the above mentioned issue [View posting dated 13.03.2015 in this website]. DoP&PW, in turn, had forwarded the same to Department of Telecommunication to examine the issues [View posting dated 17.04.2015 in this website to read the DoP&PW letter]. Now BSNL, vide its letter No. 40-27/2011-Pen.(B) dated 13.4.2016 has informed AIBSNLREA that “ In this regard, it is intimated that DOT vide its letter dated 10/04/2015 had asked all the Pr. CCA/CCA to reconcile the pension data with the Pension Disbursing Authorities (PDAs) and Pension Sanctioning/Processing Authorities. For this purpose, it had prescribed a detailed procedure to be followed with the direction to intimate the action taken to DOT.”  View the BSNL letter

19.04.2016:

PENSION ADALAT BY PRINCIPAL CCA, KOLKATA:

Principal Controller of Communication Accounts, Kolkata is holding its 3rd Pension Adalat and has invited applications to redress grievances by 22.04.2016 from the Pensioners/ Family Pensioners of DoT/ BSNL, CTD for Pension Adalat to be held at the office of Pr. CCA, Kolkata. The aggrieved pensioners may take up their grievances with the concerned office.

17.04.2016:

ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA:

It has been decided to hold the All India Conference of AIBSNLREA at Bhubaneshwar in Odisha on 2nd and 3rd July 2016. A separate section named as AIC-BBS has been opened on the left hand side of this main page where all information/documents connected with the AIC will be made available. AIBSNLREA has since issued a detailed Circular letter on the AIC which can be viewed by clicking the newly opened AIC-BBS section.

13.04.2016:

NO CHANGE IN IDA w.e.f. 1.4.2016:

Confirming our report that there will be no change in IDA w.e.f 1.4.2016, DPE has issued orders for continuation of 112.4% IDA w.e.f. 1.4.2016 for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  View the DPE oders

13.04.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED BEFORE 10.06.2013:

In our last posting in this site on 03.04.2016, while reporting the status of the above issue, we had exuded confidence that “this time when the file comes back, it will have the much needed approval of MOC&IT”. We now expect the file containing the final Cabinet Note proposing ‘revision of pension/family pension of pre-2007 and post 2007 BSNL pensioners who retired between 1.1.2007 and 9.6.2013 by allowing the benefit of merger of 50% DA effectively amounting to 78.2% and also addressing the issue of present arrangement of sharing the burden of pension between DOT and BSNL on 60:40 ratio to come back to the Establishment Wing from the office of MOC&IT at any moment. This will pave the way to send the Cabinet Note to the Cabinet Secretariat for including this as an agenda item for discussion and decision in the Cabinet Meeting.

13.04.2016:

BIENNIAL BRANCH CONFERENCE OF BERHAMPUR BRANCH (WEST BENGAL) OF AIBSNLREA:

The biennial branch conference of AIBSNLREA Berhampore (WB) Branch was held on 9th April, 2016 in the conference room of "Sancharika", the Administrative building of the SSA. Out of the total 28 members, 25 members attended the meeting…. [Please visit West Bengal State Section of State News page of this site for full report].

08.04.2016:

DOP&PW ISSUES ORDERS DELINKING REVISED PENSION FROM QUALIFYING SERVICE OF 33 YEARS FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF PRE-20006 PENSIONERS:

Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, vide its OM No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 06.04.2016, has issued orders for delinking of revised pension from qualifying service of 33 years for revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners. DOP&PW OM conveys that “It has now been decided that the revised consolidated pension of the pre-2006 pensioners shall not be lower than 50% of the minimum of the pay in the Pay Band and the grade pay (wherever applicable) corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale as per fitment table without pro-rata reduction of pension even if they had qualifying service of less than 33 years at the time of retirement.”  View the DoP&PW OM

07.04.2016:

CHENNAI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING ON 20TH APRIL, 2016:

Chennai Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its next Annual General Body meeting at 1000 Hours on Wednesday the 20th April, 2016 in Hotel Kanchi, Ethiraj Salai, Chennai. All the members and other retired BSNL Executives have been requested by the Branch to attend the meeting.

06.04.2016:

E-JOURNAL APRIL 2016 ISSUE:

April 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

06.04.2016:

NEXT MEETING OF SCOVA:

DoP&PW has notified holding of 28th meeting of Standing Committee Of Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA) on 16th May 2016.

04.04.2016:

KOLHAPUR BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS QUARTERLY GB MEETING:

Quarterly GB meeting of Kolhapur Branch (Maharashtra State) was held on 3rd April 2016 in Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall under the president ship of Shri L M Godi, Branch President. The meeting started with Prayer and was attended by 61 members....[Please visit Maharashtra Section of State News Page of this website for the complete report}.

03.04.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED BEFORE 10.06.2013:

It was already reported in this page on 28.03.2016 that after examining the plea by some other associations at the last moment with the Secretary(T) to simultaneously consider the revision of pension of the MTNL pensioners and issue of orders for extension of the benefit of merger of 78.2% DA in MTNL, the file in question containing the final Cabinet Note was re-submitted for the perusal of the senior Officers before the same could reach Secretary (T). We have given to understand that this time when the file comes back, it will have the much needed approval of MOC&IT – unless any unexpected brake is applied.

01.04.2016:

PMO FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ADDRESSED TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA URGING HIM TO STRENGTHEN THE GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM OF THE PENSIONERS AND ALSO TO SET UP SEPARATE TRIBUNAL EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE PENSIONERS TO EXPEDITOUSLY SETTLE THEIR GRIEVANCES TO THE DOP&PW FOR ACTION APPROPRIATE:

A report appeared on this page on 23.03.2016 that AIBSNLREA had written a letter to Hon’ble Prime Minister of India highlighting the failure of the existing grievance redressal mechanism for the Pensioners and urging to create a separate Tribunal in all important cities exclusively for the Pensioners which could hear the petitions of the aggrieved pensioners expeditiously and give judgment. It also urged that ‘to begin with, separate courts exclusively for the pensioners be created in all the benches of Central Administrative Tribunals’. Now the Prime Minister’s Office, vide its No. PMOPG/D/2016/0077587 dated 28/3/2016, has forwarded the said representation to Secretary, Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare with the direction to take action as appropriate.  View the letter

01.04.2016:

REPRESENTATION OF AIBSNLREA TO PRIME MINISTER REQUESTING TO RESTORE THE RATE OF INTEREST ON THE DEPOSITS UNDER SENIOR CITIZENS SAVINGS SCHEME FORWARDED BY PMO TO DOP&PW:

It was reported on this page on 21.03.2016 that AIBSNLREA had written a letter to Hon’ble Prime Minister of India expressing serious concern and deep anguish of the pensioners on the decision of the Government to reduce the rate of interest on deposits in Senior Citizens Saving Scheme. The Association had also requested to the Prime Minister to restore the rate of interest on the deposits under Senior Citizens Savings Scheme. Now Prime Minister’s Office, vide its No. PMOPG/D/2016/0077330 dated 28/3/2016, has forwarded the said representation to Secretary, Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare with the direction to take action as appropriate.  View the letter

31.03.2016:

NO INCREASE IN IDA W.E.F. 1.4.2016:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers, there will be no increase in IDA w.e.f. 1.4.2016 for both the CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.

28.03.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED BEFORE 10.06.2013:

AIBSNLREA had reported in this page on 20.03.2016 that it had to write a letter to Secretary (Telecom) expressing deep anguish and disappointment of the BSNL pensioners since the Cabinet Note to allow revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA to the absorbed BSNL pensioners was returned back after a few leaders pleaded with Secretary(T) to simultaneously consider the revision of pension of the MTNL pensioners along with issue of orders for extension of the benefit of merger of 78.2% DA in MTNL. It is now learnt that the matter has since been examined and the file stands re-submitted. The Cabinet Note file is now likely to reach Secretary (T) shortly after the senior Officers peruse the same.

27.03.2016:

NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF ASSURANCE TO EXTEND THE BENEFIT OF OPTION TO RETAIN CDA PAY SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER IN CASE OF GROUP C & D EMPLOYEES OF DOT SINCE ABSORBED IN BSNL– DOP&T FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’s REPRESENTATION DATED 23.11.2015 TO DOT FOR APPROPRIATE NECESSARY ACTION:

AIBSNLREA had last taken up the above case with the Minister of State for (PP) since the Department of Telecommunications was not implementing its own offer made in its General Terms and Conditions for Service for absorption in BSNL for “an option to retain Government Pay Scale i.e. CDA pay scale till their promotion or retirement whichever is earlier” to the absorbed Group C & D Employees [View posting dated 24.11.2015 in this website]. Now Department of Personnel & Training (DOP&T) has sent the said representation, vide its F.No. Dy.No.1141294/16-Estt.(Pay-II) dated 18.03.2016 to Secretary, Department of Telecommunications for ‘appropriate necessary action.’  View the DOP&T letter

23.03.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA URGING TO STRENGTHEN THE GRIEVANCE REDRESSAL MECHANISM OF THE PENSIONERS AND ALSO TO SET UP SEPARATE TRIBUNAL EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE PENSIONERS TO EXPEDITOUSLY SETTLE THEIR GRIEVANCES:

AIBSNLREA has written a letter to Hon’ble Prime Minister of India highlighting the failure of the existing grievance redressal mechanism for the Pensioners and urging to “create a separate Tribunal in all important cities exclusively for the Pensioners which can hear the petitions of the aggrieved pensioners expeditiously and give judgment. To begin with, separate courts exclusively for the pensioners be created in all the benches of Central Administrative Tribunals”. This is the follow up action of the editorial that AIBSNLREA had published in its March 2016 issue of e-journal “Second Innings”. The Association has also requested all the Pensioners’ Associations which are now connected with SCOVA to take up the issue at their level.  Read More

21.03.2016:

“RESTORE THE RATE OF INTEREST ON THE DEPOSITS UNDER SENIOR CITIZENS SAVING SCHEME” - AIBSNLREA APPEALS TO THE PRIME MINISTER:

AIBSNLREA has written a letter to Hon’ble Prime Minister of India expressing serious concern and deep anguish of the pensioners on the decision of the Government to reduce the rate of interest on deposits in Senior Citizens Saving Scheme unmindful of its impact on the pensioners who just try to manage their livelihood by investing their life-time savings in the 5 year Senior Citizens Savings Scheme, since the pension being received is inadequate to meet their need. AIBSNLREA has further appealed to the PM “to kindly restore the rate of interest on the deposits under Senior Citizens Savings Scheme and remove the gloom that has descended on the face and souls of the pensioners”.  Read More

20.03.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY(T) EXPRESSING DEEP ANGUISH AND DISSAPOINTMENT OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS DUE TO SUDDEN INTERRUPTION IN THE PROCESS OF CLEARNING THE CABINET NOTE FOR MUCH AWAITED REVISION OF PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS RETIRED BEFORE 10.06.2013:

AIBSNLREA has since written a letter to Secretary (Telecom) expressing deep anguish and disappointment of the BSNL pensioners “due to sudden reversal of the process to send a Cabinet Note to allow revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA to the absorbed BSNL pensioners which became due following extension of fitment benefit of 78.2% DA for re-fixation of pay of the serving employees of BSNL.” It may be recalled that the final cabinet note in file was put up to Secretary(T) for his clearance before it could be sent to MOC&IT. It is reported that a few opportunistic leaders found it right opportunity to plead with Secretary(T) to simultaneously consider the revision of pension of the MTNL pensioners along with the benefit of merger of 78.2% DA which is not yet implemented in MTNL. Following this, the file was sent back to examine the matter. In our letter, we have pointed out that there is no case for revision of pension for the retired MTNL employees as at present since the fitment benefit with merger of 78.2% DA has not been implemented even in respect of the serving MTNL employees. Besides other issues, we have also pointed out that “revision of pension of pre-2007 BSNL pensioners following revision of pay scales of the BSNL employees w.e.f. 1.1.2007 was ordered first. The case of MTNL pensioners, at that time, was not tagged with the case of the BSNL pensioners”. Finally, we have requested Secretary (T) “to kindly get the Final Cabinet Note for revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% sent to appropriate authority for early clearance”.  Read More

15.03.2016:

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES SENDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION SEEKING INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER IN THE MATTER OF GREAT INJUSTICE METED OUT TO THE ABSORBED BSNL EMPLOYEES IN GENERAL AND BSNL EXECUTIVES IN PARTICULAR IN THE MATTER OF THEIR PAY AND PENSION TO DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

AIBSNLREA had taken up with the Prime Minister of India the issue of virtual change of terms and conditions of Service for absorption in BSNL and MTNL allowing advantage of pension by Government to the MTNL absorbees by retaining their one stage higher pay scales till next pay revision after completion of absorption process and thus discriminating against the BSNL absorbees whose pay scales/pensions were not upgraded to the level of the MTNL absorbees. [View posting dated 12/02/2016 in this website to read the letter]. The Prime Minister’s Office had also forwarded the said representation to Secretary, Department of Telecommunications for taking action on the matter [View posting dated 19/02/2016 to read the letter from PMO]. Now Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) has also forwarded the same representation to Department of Telecommunications [Shri J S Deepak, Secretary] “… for appropriate action in light of the extant guidelines on the subject”.  View the DPE letter

13.03.2016:

BIMONTHLY GB MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, AKOLA BRANCH HELD:

AIBSNLREA, Akola Branch (Maharashtra) held its Bimonthly General Body meeting on 8th March 2016 at 12.00 PM at the residence of Shri D.M. Deshmukh Rtd. JTO Shegaon Dist. Buldhana. Thirty four (34) members were present in the meeting and four new Life Members were also enrolled in this Branch. After enrollment of these members, the membership of Akola branch increased to 56 members. Shri A.G. Nema Branch Secretary welcomed all the members including the new members. ……… [Please visit Maharashtra Section of State News Page of this website for the complete report}.

10.03.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF PALAKKAD BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

A GB meeting of Palakkad Branch (Kerala State) was held at Top In Town auditorium in Palakkad on 08-03-2016 at 10.45 AM. Forty (40) members attended the meeting. The main discussion was on the unsettled pension revision case with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA. Secretary explained the current status of the issue. All the members were highly agitated. Members strongly opined to go to court of law. Income Tax exemption limit of Rs. 15,000 towards medical reimbursement is still unchanged and as such needs a hike due to present high price for medicines. Restoration of medical allowance has so far not been settled. These issues were debated at length. Three new members were co opted to the Working Committee. It was also decided to call for a GB Meeting in coming June to elect new office bearers. The meeting continued up to 13.30hrs. Afterwards, lunch was served and the members disbursed at 14.00 hrs.

09.03.2016:

WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA MEETS CGM WEST BENGAL TELECOM CIRCLE:

A delegation of AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch comprising of S/Shri S.K.Maitra, S.R.Palit, N.H.Siddique, Amal Basuroy, Debashis Mitra and Dhrubojyoti Goswami met the CGM, West Bengal Telecom Circle Shri R.N.Jha on 1st March 2016. The association highlighted various problems of the executives retired from WB Telecom Circle. Among other issues, the Association concentrated on non-payment/delayed payment of medical bills (both indoor & outdoor) and strongly urged parity with the serving employees in the case of processing and payment of Medical Bills of the pensioners. Discussions were also held on the issue of 2nd ACP in Civil Wing, wrong pay fixation of Aurobinda Chaudhury Ex EE(Civil), less payment of commutation to Shri C.M.Singh Ex CS CTO. CGM assured the delegation that he was aware of all these issues and has already formed a committee to address the pensioners’ grievances.

08.03.2016:

EXTENSION OF CGHS FACILITIES TO RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – BSNL YET TO RECEIVE FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS FROM DOT/HEALTH MINISTRY:

It may recalled that orders were issued sometime back for extension of CGHS facilities to the retired BSNL employees with the power to exercise option either to avail CGHS facilities or retain BSNL MRS. But the order could not be made effective as the rates of contribution and room entitlement was not decided. Department of Telecom was required to send a concrete proposal to this effect to Ministry of Health & Family Welfare of their consideration. It is now reported that BSNL was asked by DOT to furnish information regarding pay parity of IDA and CDA scales, as wanted by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, for evaluation of contribution and room entitlement. It has also been informed that BSNL has already submitted the required information to DOT, but it is yet to receive any reply from DOT and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. AIBSNLREA will continue to pursue the case.

06.03.2016:

E-JOURNAL MARCH 2016 ISSUE:

March 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

05.03.2016:

APPLICABILITY OF PRINCIPAL BENCH, CAT JUDGMENTS TO ALLOW FULL PENSION:

Recently, Principal Bench of Central Administrative Tribunal has delivered two judgments regarding applicability of full pension to those who retired with 10/20 years of service prior to 01.01.2006. Based on the recommendations of VI CPC, the Government had allowed this benefit only to those Government Pensioners who retired on or after 01.01.2006. But now the Central Administrative Tribunal has ordered extension of the benefit to pre-2006 pensioners also. After issue of these orders, we have been receiving some queries from our viewers whether the judgments will be applicable to BSNL absorbed pensioners and also cover those who had taken VRS. It is clarified that these judgments are equally applicable to the BSNL pensioners who retired with 10/20 years of service on superannuation or under VRS. However, the implementation of the judgments will be possible, if the Government does not move with an Appeal in higher courts and the DOP&PW issues the necessary orders to extend the benefit. In order to know further details, a brief Note on the issue prepared by Shri S Ratnasubramanian, Joint Secretary (South), AIBSNLREA may be viewed.  View the Brief Note  View the Judgments

01.03.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, SANGRUR BRANCH HELD:

A general body meeting of retired executives of Sangrur SSA was held at Kaula Park, Sangrur on February, 27 under the president ship of Shri P K Jindal, Retd DGM. The Association welcomed 7 new members who joined the Association in the meeting thus raising the membership strength of the branch to 14. In the meeting, S/Shri Manohar Lal, Retd DE and Jagtar Singh, Retd JAO were co-opted as the Organizing Secretary and Executive Member respectively of the Branch……. [ View Punjab State section of State News page for the full report].

29.02.2016:

NO INCOME TAX RELIEF IN BUDGET PROPOSAL:

The budget for the financial year 2016-17 presented today in Lok Sabha did not propose any relief in Income Tax except that those having annual income up to Rs 5,00,000 will get additional relief of Rs. 3000 only. In the HRA front, the budget proposed raising of tax rebate on rent from Rs 24,000 as at present to Rs. 60,000. This benefit, available under 80GG, will give relief to the consultants and self-employed people. The first time home buyers will get additional deduction of Rs. 50,000. The impact of budget proposals on individual tax payers remain mostly the same.  View the Impact

28.02.2016:

MINISTRY OF FINANCE FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION SEEKING INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA FOR IMMEDIATE SETTLEMENT OF THE ISSUE OF REVISION OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% DA:

It was reported in this website on 08.01.2016 that AIBSNLREA had sent a representation to the Prime Minister of India requesting for his intervention for immediate settlement of the issue of revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA. Copy of the said representation was also endorsed to Minister of Communications & IT, Minister of Finance and Minister of State for (PP). It was further reported on 17.01.2016 that the Prime Minister’s Office forwarded the representation to the Secretary, Department of Telecommunications, vide No. PMOPG/D/2016/0007076 dated 08.01.2016. The PMO had advised DOT to take appropriate action on the representation and send a reply to the petitioner (AIBSNLREA) and a copy of the same uploaded on the portal. Now the Ministry of Finance has also forwarded the copy of the representation, which was endorsed to the Minister of Finance, to Department of Telecommunications vide No. 12(3)/E-V/2016 dated 22.02.2016 for appropriate action/ redressal of grievance.  View the MOF letter

27.02.2016:

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION ON INTRODUCTION OF HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PENSIONERS INCLUDING THOSE RESIDING AT NON-CGHS AREAS:

AIBSNLREA had earlier taken up with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for an early decision on the proposal to introduce a Health Insurance Scheme for Pensioners including those residing in non-CGHS areas [view posting dated 14.01.2016 in this website for details]. Now the Ministry, vide its No. S.11011/6/2009-CGHS (P)/Vol.3 dated 19.02.2015, has responded to our representation and informed that “it is informed that the EFC Memorandum with regard to Central Government Employees and Insurance Scheme (CGEPHIS) has been circulated to all the concerned Ministries/Departments for seeking their comments, after obtaining concurrence of IFD of the Ministry, on 9/2/2016. The requisite comments are awaited”.  View the letter

26.02.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% IDA:

In the posting dated 22.02.2016 in this website on the above issue, we had reported that Secretary(Telecom), who is to clear the Cabinet Note before sending it to MOC&IT, desired to have a discussion and accordingly sent back the Note. Now the concerned section of DOT has prepared a self-contained note and submitted the same along with the Cabinet Note in file to the senior officers so that they may have discussion with Secretary(T) and brief him on the issue.

26.02.2016:

TIRUCHIRAPALLY BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED:

A new Branch of AIBSNLREA has been formed in Tiruchirapalli of Tamilnadu State in a meeting of the retired Executives of BSNL held in PGM, BSNL, Trichy office Campus on 16/2/2016 at 1630 Hours. All the retired officers who were present in the meeting enrolled themselves as the life members of AIBSNLREA. They also elected the following members as the Office Bearers of the Branch:
President: Shri S.Viswanathan, Ex-DGM(CFA-I)/Trichy.
Vice-President : Shri R.Venkataraman Ex-DE/TAX/Trichy
Secretary: Shri K.Meyyalahan Ex-DE/Cantt& TUB, Trichy[Mobile No.9486103577]
Asst Secretary: Shri S.Sivakumar Ex-SDE(Sub Urban I)/Trichy
Finance Secretary: Shri K.Natarajan Ex-AGM, O/oPGM/Trichy

23.02.2016:

REVISION OF SENIORITY LISTS NO. 1 TO 17 OF THE TES GROUP B OFFICERS BASED ON THE PRINCIPLE OF PARA 206 OF P&T MANUAL VOLUME IV AS PER JUDGMENT DATED 21.01.2015 BY THE SUPREME COURT:

The Supreme Court in its Judgment dated 21.1.2015, while disposing of series of Civil Appeals, had ordered constitution of a two member Expert Committee with Justice Shri K.Ramamoorthy, retired judge of High Court of Madras as its Chairman. The Expert Committee was to suggest the way out for balancing the rights of the two groups of employees whose grievances are to be addressed with minimum disturbance in the matter of fixation of their seniority and allowing consequent promotions. Though this Association is not a party in the case, there are many members whose interests are likely to be affected. Keeping this in view, AIBSNLREA had sent some suggestions to the Committee for consideration so as to balance the rights of the groups in the process of revising their seniority and allowing promotions so as to cause minimum disturbance. [Postings in this site on 3.5.2015 may please be seen.] The Expert Committee having submitted its views, the Supreme Court in the hearing on 17.2.2016 has given three weeks time for submission of objections, if any. Thereafter Supreme Court will pronounce its final orders.

23.02.2016:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT BRANCH HELD:

The Quarterly General body meeting of AIBSNLREA, East Godavari District Branch was held on 21-02-2016 at Conference Hall, Sanchar Bhawan, Rajamahendravaram under the president ship of Shri GV Rama Krishna. The meeting started with prayer at 10.00 hrs. The house paid homage to the departed leaders. Shri GSVSS Vara Prasad, District Secretary welcomed the members. The President touched upon all the issues in his opening remarks …. …..[For full and complete report and the photographs, Andhra Pradesh section of “State News” Page of this website may be viewed.]

22.02.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION ALLOWING FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% IDA:

In the last posting on the above issue in this website on 09.02.2016, basing on the information gathered from DDG(Estt), it was reported that the final Cabinet note was received in the office of new Secretary(Telecom) for his clearance before the same could be sent to MOC&IT for his approval. It was also reported that there could be a discussion between the new Secretary(T) and the Officers concerned to apprise him the background of the issue. Subsequently, it was learnt that Secretary(T) himself desired to have a discussion. The said discussion may now take place shortly.

21.02.2016:

HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR SENIOR CITIZENS - GOVERNMENT MAY ANNOUNCE IN THE ENSUING BUDGET:

Government is reported to be working on a cashless health insurance scheme for senior citizens which may be announced in the upcoming Union Budget 2016-17. Around Rs 10,000 crore which is lying unclaimed in banks and insurance companies, EPFO and small savings schemes may be proposed to be utilized for providing the health insurance cover to the elderly. It may be recalled that the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, after formation of the new Government, had asked the views of all in utilizing the unclaimed money lying in EPFO, other small savings schemes etc for the welfare of the senior citizens and even a Committee was formed for the purpose. It is also to be noted that VII CPC has recommended for introduction of a Health Insurance Scheme for the Central Government Pensioners and a proposal in this regard was already under consideration of the Government.

19.02.2016:

PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION SEEKING INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA IN THE MATTER OF INJUSTICE METED OUT TO THE ABSORBED BSNL EMPLOYEES IN GENERAL AND THE BSNL EXECUTIVES IN PARTICULAR IN THE MATTER OF THEIR PAY AND PENSION TO SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS:

Prime Minister’s Office has since forwarded the representation dated 10.02.2016 from AIBSNLREA to the Secretary, Department of Telecommunications for action appropriate. AIBSNLREA had earlier sought for the intervention of the Prime Minister to protect the pay and pension of the absorbed BSNL employees in general and the Executives in particular following issue of orders in 2014 to allow Government pension to the absorbed MTNL employees with one stage higher pay scales. This order was in contravention to the provisions in the terms and conditions of service for absorption issued earlier [View posting dated 12.02.2016 in this website for further details and the representation].  View the letter of PMO

18.02.2016:

AIBSNLREA, UP STATE BRANCH MEETS GM (FINANCE), UP EAST TELECOM CIRCLE:

S/Shri R S Arora, State Secretary of UP State Branch, Ambika Singh, Finance Secretary, UP State Branch and S P Singh, Branch Secretary, Lucknow Branch met General Manager (Finance) of UP East Telecom Circle of BSNL on 15.02.2016 to discuss the following issues:- abnormal delay in payment of indoor and outdoor medical claims, problems in raising bills by the empanelled hospitals, issue of updated list of empanelled hospitals with details of packages. The GM(F) gave a patient hearing and stated that there is no shortage of funds for settlement of medical claims and wanted a list of all pending cases which are delayed for more than one month. A copy of the list of empanelled hospitals was also handed over to the representatives of the Association.

17.02.2016:

DEPARTMENT OF PENSION & PENSIONERS’ WELFARE ISSUES ORDERS FOR REVISION OF FULL NOTIONAL PENSION OF ALL PRE-2006 ABSORBED PENSIONERS W.E.F. 01.01.2006 INSTEAD OF 24.09.2012 AS ORDERED EARLIER:

Following issue of instructions for revision of pension/family pension of all pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners w.e.f. 01.01.2006 instead of 24.09.2012, DOP&PW has now issued instructions for revision of notional full pension/family pension of pre-2006 absorbed pensioners w.e.f. 01.01.2006 instead of 24.09.2012 as ordered earlier. Dearness Relief and additional pension for old pensioners would also be admissible on such revised notional full pension.  View the DoP&PW letter

17.02.2016:

BI-ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH HELD:

The bi-annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch was held on Sunday, the 7th February, 2016 at Amenity Block, CTO Compound Nagpur under the Chairmanship of Shri N G Talewar President of the Branch. After paying tributes to the departed family members, Shri Arun Deshpande, Asst Branch Secretary welcomed all the life members and also the newly enrolled life members. He briefed the house regarding the efforts being taken by Nagpur Branch to resolve the grievances of the BSNL pensioners…….. [ For full and complete report, Maharashtra section of “State News” Page of this website may be viewed.}

14.02.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION REQUESTING GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PENSIONARY BENEFITS TO THOSE WHO COMPLETE FULL YEAR’S OF SERVICE ON THE DATE OF THEIR RETIREMENT BUT DENIED THE ANNUAL INCREMENT SINCE THE DATE OF THEIR INCREMENT FALLS ON NEXT DAY OF THE FOLLOWING MONTH--- DOP&T NOW FORWARDS THIS REPRESENTATION TO THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE:

AIBSNLREA had earlier taken up with 7th Central Pay Commission the above issue stating that “There are many pensioners who even after completing one full year’s complete service on the last day of their service do not get the increment since the date of their annual increment falls on the next day. Just because they retire before the day of receiving the annual increment, even after completing one full year’s service, they receive lesser pension and other benefits compared to those who retire after receiving the next increment. Thus an anomalous situation is created in such cases”. The Association had urged to allow notional increment to the retiring Employees in such cases [view posting dated 08.04.2015]. Subsequently, the Association took up the issue with Department of Personnel & Training [view posting dated 05.05.2015]. Now DOP&T has forwarded our representation to the Secretary, Department of Expenditure for ‘taking appropriate action’ on the matter.  View the DoP&T letter

12.02.2016:

AIBSNLREA SEEKS INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA IN THE MATTER OF GREAT INJUSTICE METED OUT TO THE ABSORBED BSNL EMPLOYEES IN GENERAL AND BSNL EXECUTIVES IN PARTICULAR IN THE MATTER OF THEIR PAY AND PENSION:

AIBSNLREA takes up the case of high handed action of DOT to put its Officers who opted for absorption in BSNL in a great loss in terms of pay scales and pension by arbitrarily changing the terms and conditions of service for absorption after the absorption process was completed which gave advantage to those who had opted for absorption in MTNL. AIBSNLREA points out that while asking its officers to exercise option either in MTNL or BSNL, DOT had agreed to ensure payment of pension by the Government only to the absorbed employees in BSNL on their accepting lower pay scales than those offered to MTNL Employees and whose pension was decided to be paid by a trust. But subsequently DOT issued an order in 2014 allowing even the MTNL absorbed employees to get the pension by the Government w.e.f. 1.10.2000 with a provision that the pay parity between the employees of MTNL and BSNL is to be achieved by bringing down the pay scales of MTNL to the level of BSNL pay scales during next pay revision which is due w.e.f. 1.1.2017. But this decision has allowed the employees of MTNL not only to get the added benefit of higher pay scales and higher pensionary benefits than the employees of BSNL but also the added advantage of payment of pension by the Government till the next wage revision and practically even beyond. Thus those who opted for absorption in BSNL lost out in terms of both pay and pension starting w.e.f. 1.10.2000 i.e. the date on when absorption took place. The Association writes “……… it is our earnest appeal that the pay scales in BSNL be also brought at the same level as available in MTNL w.e.f. 01.10.2000 and the pension of retired absorbed employees of BSNL be revised accordingly. The employees who opted for absorption in BSNL, after comparing the general terms and conditions of service for absorption that was offered by DOT for exercising option either in BSNL and MTNL, cannot be put to a loss at a later stage by arbitrarily virtually changing the terms of conditions for absorption in favour of MTNL absorbed employees”.  View the letter

10.02.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP WITH SECRETARY (TELECOM) THE CASE OF DENIAL AND NON-RESTORATION OF BENEFIT OF 2nd ACP TO THE CIVIL WING EXECUTIVES OF BSNL BY WEST BENGAL TELECOM CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has since taken up the case of denial and non-restoration of the benefit of 2nd ACP to 16 SDEs (Civil) of West Bengal Telecom Circle which was withdrawn in 2009 on the plea of non-filling the stated condition of 8 years of regular service in the cadre of SDE and non-possession of qualification in Degree in Engineering. The Association referrs to the Clarificatory Orders issued by DOP&T on 10.02.2000 which states that 24 years of regular service at the direct entry grade alone has to be taken into account for granting 2nd ACP. As regards the qualification, the Association quotes the BSNL Corporate Office letter dated 10.07.2015 which clarified that “diploma in appropriate field of engineering with 10 years of experience shall be construed to equivalent to Degree in Engineering”. The Association further points out that this clarification again is based on DoT letter No.19-23/2012-CWG dated 11.2.2015 conveying its decision to implement Hon’ble High Court of Delhi orders dated 5.8.2014 to treat diploma holders in engineering with 10 years of experience as equivalent to degree in Engineering. The Association writes that “In view of the above, we earnestly appeal to your kind self to intervene in the matter so that the benefit of 2nd ACP is restored to all the 16 SDEs (Civil) which was withdrawn by the West Bengal Circle of BSNL vide its No. 11-6/2007-CEEZ/1093 dated 26.05.2009 arbitrarily and in violation of the rules/orders”.  View the letter

10.02.2016:

BI-MONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF PUNE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA:

Pune Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA held its bi-monthly General Body meeting on 09.01.2016 at Telephone Bhawan, Bajirao Road, Pune. The meeting was presided over by Shri S N Mupid, Branch President. The main point of discussion was about the Write Up “Is our Pension secure?“ by Shri S. Ratnasubramanian, Joint Secretary (South), CHQ regarding pension security. The write up was read out by Branch Secretary Shri B B Controllu who explained in detail regarding the pension security and asked all not to get panic.

09.02.2016:

FINAL CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION OF THE BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 50% IDA EFFECTIVELY AMOUNTING TO 78.2% IDA:

AIBSNLREA had earlier reported in this post on 03.02.2016 that DOT had submitted a final Cabinet Note on its proposal for revision of pension of the BSNL Pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 50% DA effectively amounting to 78.2% IDA for approval of MOC&IT which was to reach him through the prescribed channel. It is now gathered from DDG(Estt), DOT that the said final Cabinet Note in file is now with Secretary(T), who joined DOT a few days back, for his clearance. A meeting, if need be, may take place to discuss the issue with him. Besides the proposal for revision of pension of the BSNL employees who retired prior to 10.06.2013, the pension liability issue between DOT and BSNL has also been addressed in this Cabinet Note.

08.02.2016:

QUARTERLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF MUMBAI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:

Quarterly General Body Meeting of Mumbai Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 25 January 2016 at 14 00 hrs in the Conference Hall, Fountain Telecom Building, Fort Mumbai. Shri S N Verma presided over the meeting and welcomed all the members and wished them a very happy new year 2016 . He specially welcomed Shri A B Ansari Retd A D, Maharashtra Telecom Circle, Mumbai for enrolling himself as a life member…… [ For full report of the meeting, please go to Maharashtra State section of ‘State News’ page of this website].

07.02.2016:

PGM(BW), BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE FINALLY ASKS CGMT, WEST BENGAL CIRCLE TO SUPPLY COPY OF CIRCLE’S EARLIER LETTER DATED 13.12.2006 AND ALSO THE COPY OF THE REPRESENTATION DATED 22.08.2006 OF SHRI ARABINDA CHOWDHURY, RETD EE (CIVIL) TO SETTLE THE CASE OF HIS WRONGLY FIXED PAY/PENSION:

AIBSNLREA is pursuing the above case for the last couple of years with BSNL Corporate Office and others. Once the PAT Section of BSNL Corporate Office had reported that it has transferred all the letters/representations to PGM(BW) to examine and settle the case. Since there was no response, the Association took up the matter with Director (HR) vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2015/35 dated 16.11.2015 [view posting dated 19.11.2015 to view the letter]. Now PGM(BW) has written a letter dated 03.02.2016 to the CGMT, West Bengal Circle requesting to supply the copy of the Circle Office letter No. WB/TA/GE/PF/C(58)/86 dated 13.12.2006 with copy of the representation dated 22.08.2006 of Shri Arabinda Chowdhury and also to furnish detailed comments.  View the letter

06.02.2016:

E-JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2016 ISSUE:

February 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

03.02.2016:

FINAL CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION FOR THE BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 50% IDA EFFECTIVELY AMOUNTING TO 78.2% IDA SINCE SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL OF MOC&IT:

Department of Telecommunications (Establishment Branch) has since submitted the final Cabinet Note on its proposal for revision of pension of the BSNL Pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 50% IDA effectively amounting to 78.2% IDA for approval of MOC&IT. The file is to reach him through the prescribed channels and once approved, multiple copies of the Cabinet Note have to be sent to the Cabinet Secretariat.

02.02.2016:

EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD BI-ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING ON 7TH FEBRUARY, 2016:

East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its next Bi-annual General Body meeting at 16.00 Hours on Sunday, the February 7th, 2016 in the Amenity Hall of CTO Nagpur. All the members and other retired BSNL Executives have been requested by the Branch to attend the meeting.

29.01.2016:

DOP&T ISSUES GUIDELINES TO BE FOLLOWED FOR PROMOTION OF GOVERNMENT SERVANTS EXONERATED AFTER RETIREMENT:

Department of Personnel & Training has since issued an order detailing the procedure and guidelines to be followed for promotion of Government servants who are exonerated after retirement. The said order says that “…… A retired Government employee who is considered for notional promotion from the date of promotion of his next junior after opening of the sealed cover would also be entitled to fixation of pension on the basis of such notional pay on his notional promotion……'.  View the DOP&T order

26.01.2016:

QUATERLY GB MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, KOLHAPUR BRANCH HELD:

Quarterly General Body meeting of Kolhapur Branch (Maharashtra State) was held on 24th January 2016 in Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall at Kolhapur with Shri L M Godi, President in the Chair. [Please go to Maharashtra State Section of ‘State News’ Page in this website for the full report}.

21.01.2016:

CABINET NOTE FOR REVISION OF PENSION FOR THE BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BY EFFECTIVE MERGER OF 78.2% DA:

The information that was gathered to-day from DDG (Estt), Department of Telecommunications reveals that the “comments” from Ministry of Law on DOT’s reference on the issue has since been received by the DOT. The response from Ministry of Law is said to be positive and now DOT will take follow up action to complete the Cabinet Note which is to be sent to the Cabinet Secretariat.

18.01.2016:

INDORE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA PRESENTS MEMORANDUM TO MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS & IT ON REVISION OF PENSION WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% DA:

Shri N C Yadav, Branch Secretary of Indore Branch (MP State) of AIBSNLREA to-day led a delega4on of the members and met Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of Communica4ons & IT and presented him a memorandum on inordinate delay in sending the Cabinet Note to the Cabinet Secretariat for revision of pension with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA to the BSNL pensioners. He assured to look into the case. The Minister was at Indore on his two day visit.

17.01.2016:

AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 06.01.2016 ON HARASSMENT OF THE PENSIONERS WHO RETIRED FROM BSNL IN THE MATTER OF REVISION OF THEIR PENSION WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% DA SINCE FORWRADED BY PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE TO THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOR ACTION APPROPRIATE:

Representation dated 06.01.2016 of AIBSNLREA to the Prime Minister [view posting dated 08.01.2016 in this website to read the letter] in the matter of revision of pension of the BSNL pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA has since been forwarded to the Secretary, Department of Telecommunications by the Prime Minister’s Office vide its No. PMOPG/D/2016/0007076 dated 08.01.2016. The PMO has advised DOT to take appropriate action on the representation and send a reply to the petitioner and a copy of the same uploaded on the portal.  View PMO letter

16.01.2016:

AIBSNLREA, EAST VIDARBHA BRANCH, NAGPUR MEETS SR. GMTD NAGPUR:

Representatives of AIBSNLREA, East Vidarbha Branch, comprising of S/Shri N G Talewar, P R Bhujbal, Arun Deshpande, R C Rachkondawar and B M Majumdar, met Shri R N Patil Sr. GMTD Nagpur on 14th January, 2016. On behalf of all members, the. Association greeted Sr. GMTD Nagpur on the eve of Makar Sankranti and New Year. The representatives of the Association mainly raised the issue of undue delay in payment of outdoor medical claims of BSNL retired employees of SSA Nagpur and requested to settle the medical claims within a time frame. Sr. GMTD assured to look into the matter. Another important issue …….. [Please go to Maharashtra State Section of ‘State News’ Page in this website for the full report}.

15.01.2016:

PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE FORWARDS AIBSNLREA’S REPRESENTATION DATED 09.01.2016 ABOUT INACTION BY DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS ON ITS REPRESENTATION TO REMOVE A GENUINE GRIEVANCE REGARDING UNJUST PENSION LIABILITY ON BSNL TO THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOR ACTION APPROPRIATE:

Prime Minister’s Office has since forwarded AIBSNLREA’s representation dated 09.01.2016 [view posting dated 11.01.2016 to read the letter] about inaction by DOT on the representation of the Association to remove a genuine grievance regarding unjust pension liability on BSNL to the Secretary, Department of Telecommunications vide its No. PMOPG/D/2016/0010857 dated 13.01.2016. The PMO has also advised DOT to take appropriate action on the representation and send a reply to the petitioner and a copy of the same uploaded on the portal.  View PMO letter

14.01.2016:

INTRODUCTION OF HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PENSIONERS INCLUDING THOSE RESIDING AT NON-CGHS AREAS:

AIBSNLREA takes up the issue with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for early decision on the proposal which was under consideration of the Government. The Association refers to the discussion on the matter in the last meeting of SCOVA held on 13.10.2015 wherein it was reported that “An EFC Memo in this regard would be circulated to all concerned departments shortly”. It may be recalled that the 7th Central Pay Commission has also recommended for introduction of Health Insurance Scheme for the CG Employees.  View the letter

14.01.2016:

GOVERNMENT FORMS EMPOWERED COMMITTEE OF SECRETARIES TO PROCESS THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF 7TH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION:

The Government of India on Wednesday, the 13th January, 2016 has set up an Empowered Committee of Secretaries headed by Cabinet Secretary Shri P K Sinha to process the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission in an overall perspective. This Committee will function as a screening committee to process the recommendations with regard to all relevant factors of the Commission in an expeditious, detailed and holistic fashion.

11.01.2016:

UNJUST BURDEN OF PENSION LIABILITY ON BSNL IN RESPECT OF THE DOT EMPLOYEES RETIRED PRIOR TO 1.10.2000 IN CDA SCALE – AIBSNLREA SEEKS THE INTERVENTION OF THE PRIME MINISTER ON THE ISSUE:

DOT, in pursuant to Sub-Rule 22 of Rule 37-A of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972, had earlier specified the manner in which the financial liability for payment of pension to the retired absorbed retired employees will have to be met. The arrangement also includes the cases of those DOT employees who retired before formation of BSNL. AIBSNLREA had taken up the issue with Minister of Communications & IT and others vide its No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2014/20 dated 30.07.2014 [view AIBSNLREA letter dated 30.07.2014] and requested “to exempt Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited from shouldering the pension liability of the DOT employees retired prior to 1.10.2000 in CDA scale as has been done in the case of Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited.” Though, Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, vide their No. 4/5/2014-P&PW(D) dated 7.10.2014 [view posting dated 20.10.2014 in this website] had forwarded the representation and advised DOT “to consider the issue raised in the representation expeditiously under intimation to the representationist”, nothing was heard from DOT. Subsequent reminders by AIBSNLREA also failed to get any response. Now the Association has taken up the issue with Hon’ble Prime Minister of India for his “kind intervention so that Department of Telecommunication takes appropriate action to examine our genuine grievance as detailed in our representation dated 30.07.2014 and resolve the same at the earliest”.  View the letter

11.01.2016:

BI-MONTHLY MEETING OF AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA:

Amravati Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA held its Bi-monthly meeting on 3.1.2016 in the Conference Hall of G.M. Amaravati. Shri V G Dakhode, Branch Secretary welcomed all the members and wished them happy new year 2016. He then gave the details of present status of merger of 50% D.A. amounting to 78.2 % and other issues. … [Please view Maharashtra State section of State News Page of this website for the full report]

10.01.2016:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO UNION FINANCE MINISTER REQUESTING HIM TO CONSIDER CHANGES IN THE EXISTING PERSONAL INCOME TAX RELIEF GRANTED TO THE COMMON CITIZENS/SENIOR CITIZENS IN THE ENSUING BUDGET 2016-17:

AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Union Finance Minister with a copy endorsed to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India requesting him to consider a few changes in the existing limit available for grant of Income Tax relief to the general public and senior citizens. The Association has requested to raise the basic exemption limit for general public and senior citizens to Rs 5 lakhs and Rs 6 lakhs respectively. The Association has also requested to raise the total limit of deductions for savings under different Sections of IT Act from existing Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 5 lakhs without any cap under each of the relevant Sections of the IT Act. Besides raising the exemption limit for medical allowance/reimbursement from Rs 15,000 to Rs. 50,000, AIBSNLREA has also requested for some improvements in the Sr. Citizen’s Savings Scheme.  View the letter

08.01.2016:

AIBSNLREA SEEKS INTERVENTION OF PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA FOR IMMEDIATE SETTLEMENT OF THE ISSUE OF REVISION OF PENSION OF THE ABSORBED BSNL PENSIONERS WITH FITMENT BENEFIT BY MERGER OF 78.2% DA:

AIBSNLREA has sent a representation to the Prime Minister of India with copy endorsed to Minister of Communications & IT, Minister of Finance and Minister of State for (PP) requesting for his intervention in immediate settlement of the issue of revision of pension of the absorbed BSNL pensioners with fitment benefit by merger of 78.2% DA. The Association brings to the notice of the Prime Minister that a proposal for revision of pension was already cleared by Department of Expenditure duly approved by the Finance Minister. A copy of the DOE’s letter clearing DOT’s proposal in October 2014 has also been enclosed along with the representation. The Association has expressed its concern due to inordinate delay in preparing the final Cabinet Note to seek the approval of the Cabinet to the proposal.  View the letter  View the DoE letter

08.01.2016:

EAST GODAVARI BRANCH (AP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA AGAIN RISES TO THE OCCASION:

Shri Vara Prasad GSVSS, Secretary, East Godavari Branch of AIBSNLREA writes “On the call given by the CHQ, our members responded very quickly and we have sent a cheque of Rs 40,000/- to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, Tamilnadu towards flood relief activities.” Cheque No. 327487 dated 07.01.2016 for Rs 40,000 drawn on Karur Vysya Bank Limited has been sent by the Branch to the Tamilnadu Government. CHQ sincerely thanks the members of the Branch for their prompt response. [Also go to AP State Section of State News page].

07.01.2016:

STATE SECRETARY, AIBSNLREA, UTTAR PRADESH MET CCA, LUCKNOW:

State Secretary, AIBSNLREA of UP State Branch met Controller of Communication Accounts, UP East, Lucknow on 18.12.2015 and requested him to mention the date of birth of the pensioners/family pensioners in their PPOs for availing the benefit of additional pension on attaining the age of 80, 85, 90, 95 and 100 years. CCA, Lucknow assured to get the needful done.

07.01.2016:

INORDINATE DELAY IN SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES:

Noticing inordinate delay in settlement of pension cases on the ground that PPO issuing authorities insisted on the confirmation of officers/officials on initial appointment, even though the officer/official was promoted on more than one occasion after initial appointment, DoT has issued instructions to follow DoPT letter dated 28.3.1988 wherein it has been emphasized that there should be no distinction between permanent and temporary employees in the application of Pension Rules. BSNL Corporate Office has endorsed the DoT letter.  View the DoPT, DoT and BSNL letters

06.01.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.1.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.1.2016 from 107.9% to 112.4% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  Click Here for the orders

06.01.2016:

REVISION OF IDA W.E.F. 1.1.2016:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA w.e.f 1.1.2016 from 251% to 258.6% for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.  Click Here for the orders

06.01.2016:

E-JOURNAL JANUARY 2016 ISSUE:

January 2016 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column.

05.01.2016:

ANOTHER SUCCESS STORY FOR BSNL’S RETURN TO THE PATH OF ECONOMIC RECOVERY – BSNL WINS LEGAL BATTLE AGAINST INCOME TAX DEPARTMENT TO GET BACK 10K CRORES REFUND:

We had earlier reported in this website on 19.11.2015 that “In an interesting development, for the first time after so many years of continuous losses, BSNL has started to move on the path of economic recovery. BSNL has recorded an operative profit of Rs 672 crores for the year 2014-15 as against the operating loss of Rs 692 crores during 2013-14. The Company is expected to have net profit from the year 2019”. Now on his New Year’s Day address to the employees of Corporate Office, the CMD, BSNL has announced that BSNL has won a legal battle against the Income Tax Department and would be getting back Rs 10,000 crores as refund in the coming financial year. He also called upon the employees to work hard to sustain the trend of economic recovery so that they get their due pay revision along with other PSUs. All these developments taken together are enough to indicate that BSNL, contrary to the forecast made by the cynics, will not sink and has a great future. All that it is important at this stage is that all stake holders – including the employees must assume a leading role to consolidate the financial gain for BSNL which will ultimately make their own financial packages more reasonable and attractive.

03.01.2016:

ANOMALY IN FIXATION OF PENSION TO THE DOT EMPLOYEES ABSORBED IN BSNL, WHO RETIRED BETWEEN 01.10-.2000 AND 31.07.2001 - AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE ISSUE WITH MEMBER (SERVICES), TELECOM COMMISSION:

The above issue still remains unsettled despite following it up from time to time. DOT once came out with an order to resolve the issue, but this failed to take care of the problem in its totality. Since then the matter is under discussion in the SCOVA meetings and DOT was to prepare and get through a new proposal which could take care of the problem. Fortunately, DOT’s proposal is in the line of AIBSNLREA’s suggestion. But this could not progress much since there was no proper coordination between DOT and BSNL. However, in the last meeting of SCOVA held on 13.10.2015, when the issue came up for discussion, “DOT was asked to finalise the proposal by 31.10.2015.” But till this date, the issue has not progressed much. AIBSNLREA, therefore, has now taken up the issue with Member (Services), Telecom Commission requesting him to intervene “so that DOT finalizes the proposal and issue orders at the earliest to remove a genuine and long pending grievance of a section of the BSNL pensioners who are waiting since long to get justice.”  View the letter

01.01.2016:

AIBSNLREA TAKES UP THE CASE FOR EXTENSION OF CGHS FACILITIES TO THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES WITH MEMBER (SERVICES), TELECOM COMMISSION:

DOT had already issued orders extending the benefit to exercise option to avail either CGHS facilities or BSNLMRS to the retired BSNL employees drawing pension under Central Pension Rules vide its No. F.4-12(11)/2012(PAT) dated 20.02.2014. But the Order could not be given effect to since DOT was yet to decide the rates of contribution and ward entitlement etc of the pensioners in consultation with Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. In the last meeting of SCOVA held on 13.10.2015, when the issue came up for discussion, “Department of Telecom was asked to finalise the proposal quickly and send it to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare by 31.10.2015.” But till this date, it seems that the case has not been settled. AIBSNLREA, therefore, takes up the issue with Member (Services), Telecom Commission requesting him to intervene “so that DOT issues the much awaited orders on fixation of rates of contribution and ward entitlement for the retired BSNL employees so that they can give option to avail the CGHS facilities”.  View the letter