Year 2022
31.12.2022:
IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.01.2023:
According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for the months September 2022, October and November 2022, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.01.2023 is 201.1%% [increase by 5.3%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and 408.5%% [increase by 9%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.30.12.2022:
BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ON Pension contribution by BSNL in respect of its absorbed employees – Clarifications required by DoE yet to be supplied by BSNL:
AIBSNLREA had written to CMD BSNL on 17th November 2022 requesting early issue of clarifications sought for by DoT on pension contribution on actual basic pay. We had mentioned that BSNL Pensioners are very much concerned about the matter of pension contribution, asfinancial health of BSNL is as important to the BSNL absorbed pensioners as BSNL employees. BSNL has now responded stating that "BEING POLICY MATTER ONCE DECISION TAKEN SAME SHALL BE CONVEYED. THANKS FOR TAKING UP THE ISSUE." View the BSNL letter29.12.2022:
GB MEETING OF LUCKNOW BRANCH (UP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HELD:
Lucknow Branch (UP State) of AIBSNLREA held its 3rd Annual Conference on 28.12.2022 in the Mini Hall of Gandhi Bhawan, near Residency from 10.00 to 14.30 hrs under the Chairmanship of Shri B L Mishra, President of Lucknow Branch. 45 members attended the meeting. During the meeting, 2 new members i.e. S/Shri S R Upadhyay Retd TDM and V S Pandey Retd SDE were enrolled as Life members. Branch Secretary Shri S P Singh presented his Annual Report and Shri Ashok Srivastava presented the Financial Report. Both were adopted by the house. State Secretary Shri R S Arora and State Financial Secretary Shri Ambika Singh also spoke on the occasion. Ten members of the Branch, who retired in 2003 and crossed 80 years of age, were honoured by presenting with Shawls. Shri Radhey Shyam, Organising Secretary conducted the proceedings of the House. The Branch President then presented vote of thanks and dissolved the old Executive body. Following this, a new Executive body was elected unanimously. Lunch was served to all the participants after the meeting. View the list of new Office Bearers27.12.2022:
BSNL PLANS TO PROVIDE A WEB-BASED SOLUTION FOR RETIRED EMPLOYEES TO SUBMIT AND TRACK LATEST STATUS OF THEIR CLAIMS:
AIBSNLREA had several times requested BSNL authorities to implement a web based solution, with the latest letter addressed to GM (CA/ERP-FICO) on 6th October 2022 in which we had requested that submission, pendency and payment of claims may be displayed and updated regularly in BSNL Intranet main page and made accessible to the pensioners through some username and password. BSNL has now issued a letter all CGMs conveying its decision to implement a pan-India web based solution for the retired employees to submit and track latest status of their claims and has requested the Circles to nominate a Nodal Officer for coordination with ITPC Development Unit, Hyderabad. View the BSNL letter26.12.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'ROLE OF AYURVEDA IN MANAGING LIFESTYLE DISORDERS':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Role of Ayurveda in managing lifestyle disoreders’ at 4 PM on 27.12.2022. One can join the same by using the link: http://tinyurl.com/mr2frwzh26.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITS TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION), DoP&PW ON RELUCTANCE ON THE PART OF CGMT, UP(WEST), BSNL TO IMPLEMENT THE CLEAR INSTRUCTION OF DOP&PW ISSUED, VIDE OM NO.28/90/2022-P&PW(B)/8297 DATED 02.10.2022, REGARDING REGULARIZATION OF THE PERIOD OF INTERRUPTION IN EXCESS OF JOINING TIME, DUE TO THE TRAINING AND REGULAR APPOINTMENT BEING AT DIFFERENT STATIONS, BY GRANT OF LEAVE OF THE KIND DUE OR IF NO SUCH LEAVE IS DUE, BY GRANT OF EXTRAORDINARY LEAVE – CASE OF SHRI AJAY KUMAR DUBEY, RETD AGM, AGRA TELECOM DISTRICT:
AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW to the reply given by PGM TD, BSNL, Agra that “necessary guidelines have been sought for from Circle Office.” AIBSNLREA says, it is really disgusting that in spite of clear and categorical instructions given in the above referred to Office Memorandum of DoP&PW, i.e. the nodal Department on pension matters, the BSNL unit wants guidelines from its Circle office. After waiting for nearly 3 years now without the issue getting resolved, we can only see this as another attempt to further delay resolution. Hence, the Secretary (Pension) has been requested to intervene in the matter and direct BSNL authorities to follow the instructions given in DoP&PW OM No.28/90/2022-P&PW(B)/8297 dated 2nd October 2022 and to condone the administrative delay in the case of Shri Ajay Kumar Dubey, Retd AGM. View the letter25.12.2022:
TELECOM MINISTER OUSTS 10 SENIOR DOT OFFICERS WITH DOUBTFUL INTEGRITY:
According to media reports, Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved force retirement for 10 senior DoT officials, including a joint secretary, an official source said on Saturday. This is the first time employees in the Department of Telecom have been given forced retirement under section 56 (J) under Pension Rule 48 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. In September, a senior BSNL official, who was caught napping in Mr. Vaishnaw's meeting after the cabinet cleared a ₹1.64 lakh-crore package for the public sector enterprise, was given voluntary retirement from the service.25.12.2022:
LUCKNOW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD GB MEETING:
AIBSNLREA, Lucknow Branch of Uttar Pradesh State will be holding its biennial GB meeting on 28th December 2022 at 10.00 Hrs in the Mini Hall of Gandhi Bhawan near Residency, Lucknow. All members of the Branch and other retired Executives desirous of joining the Association are requested to attend the meeting [Interested retired BSNL Executives may contact Shri S P Singh, Branch Secretary (Mob No. 9452204003) for further details].19.12.2022:
ALLEPPEY BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD GB MEETING:
Alleppey Branch (Kerala State) of AIBSNLREA held a GB Meeting on 17.12.2022 at the residence of Shri Mathew Jacob. The meeting started at 11 AM. After silent prayer for the departed members and others, Branch Secretary Shri Rajmohan welcomed all. After brief address by Shri Nebu Mathew, Shri K G Balakrishna Pillai explained in detail the various issues such as pension revision, medical bill payment etc. Branch Secretary Shri Rajmohan then explained about migration to CGHS. The meeting also decided to give contribution for the AIC at Kolkata being held in January 2023. Shri Sukumara Pillai, Branch Finance Secretary presented the Vote of Thanks. The meeting was adjourned at 13.00 PM for meals.16.12.2022:
PGM TD, AGRA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 14.10.2022 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL ON CONDONATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE DELAY IN ISSUING APPOINTMENT LETTER TO SHRI A K DUBEY RETD AGM AGRA UNDER RULE 22 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES, 1972 FOR CONUNTING OF PRE-APPOINTMENT TRAINING AS QUALIFYING SERVICE:
AIBSNLREA had again took up the matter with Director (HR) BSNL, now drawing his attention to a recent Office Memorandum issued by DoP&PW vide its O.M. No.28/90/2022-P&PW(B)/8297 dated 02.10.2022, providing that “where the period of interruption in excess of joining time is due the training and regular appointment being at different stations, such period of interruption in excess of joining time is required to be regularised by grant of leave of the kind due or if no such leave is due, by grant of extraordinary leave by the Head of the Department. The period of interruption regularised by grant of extraordinary leave in such cases is required to be counted as qualifying service.” PGM TD Agra has now responded stating that "necessary guidelines are being sought for." View the PGM TD Agra letter15.12.2022:
CGHS DIRECTORATE ISSUES INSTRUCTIONS TO ALL CGHS WELLNESS CENTRES AND UNITS TO FOLLOW CGHS GUIDELINES ISSUED FROM TIME TO TIME:
CGHS Directorate, vide its Office Order No.Z.15025/7/2022/DIR/CGHS dated 15th December 2022, has asked the CMOs in charge and other Medical Officers and staff of all CGHS Wellness Centres and the staff working in the administrative offices of CGHS to keep themselves with the guidelines/orders issued under CGHS and implement the same in discharging their duties. In this regard, CGHS Directorate has reiterated that special attention be paid to some issues like punctuality in attendance,validity of CGHS card in any CGHS Wellness Centre in the country, issue of medicines for three months in case of chronic illnesses etc. View the CGHS Directorate Office Order15.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL, REQUESTING TO RELEASE THE WITHHELD AMOUNT OF EX-GRATIA, GRANT OF TIME BOUND UPGRADATION FROM E4 TO E5 AND FROM E5 TO E6 AND ALSO RELEASING OF GRATUITY AND CVP IN VIEW OF QUASHING OF CHARGESHEET BY HON'BLE CAT BANGALORE AND ON ATTAINING OF AGE 60 YEARS- CASE OF SHRI B M NYAMATI, RETD CAO, BANGALORE TELECOM DISTRICT.:
AIBSNLREA has again written to Director (HR) BSNL, drawing his attention to the fact that almost six months back we were told that letter requesting grant of VC has been received from Karnataka Circle and has been sent to CVO for obtaining clearance. But Shri B M Nyamati is yet to get his retirement regularized and his retirement benefits released. Personal attention of the Director (HR) BSNL has been requested for early issue of his final retirement orders, release of withheld ex-gratia, Gratuity, other retiral benefits and grant of Time Bound Upgradation from E4 to E5 and from E5 to E6 scales and to render justice to the aggrieved pensioner. View the letter15.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA, CHATTISGARH STATE BRANCH MEETS CGMT, BSNL, CHATTISGARH CIRCLE:
Chattisgarh State Branch of AIBSNLREA held an informal meeting with CGMT, BSNL Chhattisgarh Circle on 14.12.2022. The meeting took place under the chairmanship of Shri P K Singh, CGMT CG Circle. Senior officers from Circle Administration and Finance were present. The association was represented by S/Shri G P Pandey State Secretary, S K Sharma, R S Chauhan, B. Bhoutekar and Smt Asha Chaturvedi. Mainly the issues relating to BSNLMRS cases were discussed. The issues related to Circle Office were mostly resolved.15.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH TO HOLD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
The General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch will be held on Friday the 16th December at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, near Ashok Pillar, Chennai from 10 AM. Shri Chittaranjan Pradan, CCA, Tamilnadu will be the Chief Guest. All members and other retired BSNL Executives are requested to attend the meeting.14.12.2022:
GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO RESPONDS IMMEDIATELY TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 13.12.2022 REGARDING PAYMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS TO RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – STILL A SIZABLE NUMBER OF CLAIMS UP TO 31.03.2022 REMAINING UNPAID:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 13.12.2022, GM (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO has sent a reply email stating that "The contents of the mail have been noted. The same is copied to Budget Cell for further necessary action". View the copy of email13.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO REGARDING PAYMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS TO RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – STILL A SIZABLE NUMBER OF CLAIMS UP TO 31.03.2022 REMAINING UNPAID:
AIBSNLREA has again written to the General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO drawing his attention to the fact that still a sizable number of claims pertaining to the period prior to 31.03.2022 remain unpaid in many Circles including BSNL Corporate Office, as per our reports, after exhausting the funds provided following your letter dated 30.08.2022 and has requested him to ensure that the necessary funds requested by the Circles on this count are allotted at the earliest, so that the agony of the BSNL retired employees comes to an end and your whole-hearted effort attains its goal. View the letter12.12.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'DIMINISHING VISION - A MATTER OF CONCERN':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Diminishing Vision - A matter of concern’ at 4 PM on 13.12.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://tinyurl.com/4uhhad4b12.12.2022:
GB MEETING OF MUMBAI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA:
Mumbai Branch of AIBSNLREA held a GB Meeting on 22.11.2022 under the chairmanship of Shri Devassy, Branch President. The Branch Secretary apprised the members about the latest developments on various issues at CHQ and Circle level and also the details of the meeting that the State Branch had with Jt. CCA, Maharashtra. [View posting dated 21.11.2022 in this website for further details]. Inadequacy of CGHS facilities and other issues were also discussed.12.12.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DOT ON NON-REGULARISATION OF THE SUSPENSION PERIOD DESPITE ACQUITTAL IN A CBI CASE, IN ADDITION TO NON-PAYMENT OF GRATUITY, COMMUTATION OF PENSION AND NON-SETTLEMENT OF REGULAR PENSION CASE OF SHRI H S SUTARIA, RETD JTO, GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE, BSNL:
AIBSNLREA has again written to the Secretary DoT, now regarding regularisation of suspension period despite acquittal in a CBI case in the case of Shri H S Sutaria, Retd JTO Gujarat Telecom Circle, requesting immediate payment of Gratuity and other pensionary benefits and regularisation of the suspension period. View the letter06.12.2022:
E-JOURNAL DECEMBER 2022 ISSUE:
December 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "CGHS - TOWARDS A CONSCIOUS OPTION" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. View the E-journal December 202203.12.2022:
AGB OF AIBSNLREA TRICHY BRANCH HELD:
Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Trichy Branch was held on 30.11.2022 under the Presidentship of Shri T.Gunasekaran with a participation of 17 members besides State Secretary Shri M.S.R. and Thanjavur Branch Secretary Shri R.J.Christopher. Meeting started with welcome address by Shri M.Anandan followed by Presidential address. Shri R.Venkataraman, Shri S.Andiappan, Shri K.Sivakumar, Shri K.Vishwanathan, Shri K.Meyyalahan and Smt. N.Bharathi participated in the discussions. Shri R.J.Christopher, Secretary, Thanjavur Branch felicitated the meeting. Meeting was very informative and interactive by the speech of Shri P.Manoharan and Special address by Shri M.S.R, State Secretary, who spoke on pay revision, pension revision, settlement of medical bills, migration to SAMPANN, CGHS etc. Meeting ended with vote of thanks but it is not an end, it is a beginning for the progressive welfare of AIBSNLREA members. New body of office bearers has been elected as follows: President. S.Vishwanathan,DGM.Vice president. K.Siva kumar,DE.Secretary. U.Ponnuchamy DGM. Asst.Secretary.S.Benjamin Arockiyaraj SDE.Treasurer.K.Meyyalahan,DE.Asst.Treasurer.S.Andiappan AO. Auditor. R.Rajendran SDE. Executive Committee members. P.Manoharan DGM . R.Venkataraman DE, Gunasekaran,DGM, V.Ganapathy Subramanian DE, N.Bharathi AGM, V.Mani SDE and M.Sivakumar SDE.28.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CVO BSNL REQUESTING EXPEDITIOUS FINAL DECISION IN THE DISCIPLINARY CASE INITIATED AGAINST SHRI A.G. KAMALWAR, RETIRED DE, BHANDARA (HRMS NO. 197506943) UNDER BA CHANDRAPUR OF MAHARASHTRA TELECOM CIRCLE, BSNL:
Pointing out that issue of chargesheet was delayed by three years, conclusion of enquiry took another three years and no final decision has been taken five years after submission of inquiry report, AIBSNLREA has written to CVO BSNL requesting expeditious final decision in the disciplinary case. View the letter26.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN TAKES UP WITH THE DIRECTOR GENERAL (CGHS) NEW DELHI ON OUR EARLIER SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVEMENT IN FUNCTIONING OF CGHS:
In response to AIBSNLREA's earlier representation on the issue, we were informed that "This office hereby acknowledge your valid suggestions in different aspects of health delivery system of CGHS. The point no. 1 to 5 as policy matters are under the jurisdiction of higher authorities of Ministry of Health & FW which will be intimated to the notice of the competent authorities for necessary action." Since no action has been taken on these suggestions nearly 4 months after the response, AIBSNLREA has again taken up the matter with the Director General, CGHS, requesting early action in order to further strengthen the scheme. View the letter26.11.2022:
BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HOLD ITS GB MEETING:
A General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, Bhopal Branch (Madhya Pradesh State) was held on 20.11.2022. In this meeting, apart from other usual discussions, the senior members of the Branch who completed 80 years of age and also those who completed 75 years of age were facilitated by presentation of Shree phal, Shawl and bell plant. The meeting was addressed by Shri P P Khare, Retd. CGM MP Circle, who is a Life Member of the Branch, and also by Shri K. Nagarajan, former President and founder member of the Branch. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary (Central), CHQ was present during the meeting. At the end of the meeting, Vote of Thanks was presented by Dr. H.S. Saxena, Branch Secretary. Five (5) new Life Members were enrolled in the meeting.25.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN TAKES UP WITH THE DIRECTOR (CGHS) NEW DELHI SEEKING EARLY APPROVAL FOR THE PROCEDURE IN RESPECT OF SMT.SUBASINI DEVTA AS REQUIRED BY AD CGHS AHMEDABAD:
AIBSNLREA's earlier representation on the issue has been disposed of citing a fresh request by AD CGHS Ahmedabad seeking approval of the procedure. AIBSNLREA has again written to Director CGHS New Delhi, pointing out that instead of examining and taking action on our request, Director CGHS office has simply forwarded the grievance to AD CGHS Ahmedabad who had long back sent the case for your approval and has requested issue of early approval. View the letter24.11.2022:
REIMBURSEMENT OF ONE-TIME PAYMENT OF CGHS SUBSCRIPTION ON PRIORITY FOR THOSE WHO OPT TO SWITCH OVER BY 31st MARCH 2023:
BSNL CO has again decided that those retirees/VRS optees who have not opted for CGHS so far, if they switch over to CGHS by 31st March, 2023, reimbursement of one-time payment of their CGHS subscription will be processed on priority after submission of their claim with BSNL. View the BSNL letter23.11.2022:
INCREMENT BECOMING DUE ON THE NEXT DAY AFTER RETIREMENT - DoP&T SAYS MATTER UNDER EXAMINATION:
In the wake of recent orders of the Supreme Court of India in cases involving claims for grant of notional increment on 1st July/1st January to the Central Government employees having their date of retirement on 30th June/31st December respectively, DoP&T in a OM vide Dy.No.2455223/22-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 22nd November 2022, says "the subject matter is under examination, in consultation with the nodal Ministries/Departments concerned." View the DoP&T OM23.11.2022:
CONTACT DETAILS OF CGHS WELLNESS CENTRES IN DELHI AND OUTSIDE DELHI:
Government of India has published the contact details of all CGHS Wellness Centres in Delhi and outside Delhi, for information and guidance of the CGHS beneficiaries. View the Chart23.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON NON-PAYMENT OF GRATUITY, COMMUTATION OF PENSION AND NON-SETTLEMENT OF REGULAR PENSION CASE OF SHRI H S SUTARIA, RETD JTO, GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE, BSNL.:
AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW to the ordeal of a retired JTO of Gujarat Telecom Circle of BSNL who is not being paid his gratuity after his retirement on superannuation even after his acquittal in a CBI case and despite his repeated representations. AIBSNLREA has requested immediate payment of his Gratuity and other eligible pensionary benefits. View the letter22.11.2022:
CLARIFICATIONS ON REVISED ENTITLEMENT OF WARDS IN PRIVATE HOSPITALS EMPANELLED UNDER CGHS:
DoH&FW vide its OM No.S.11011/11/2016-CGHS(P) dated 22nd November 2022 has issued an O.M. clarifying that there is no change in the subscription rate as already fixed vide OM dated 09.01.2017 and that there is no linkage between CGHS subscription and ward entitlement. View the DoH&FW OM22.11.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'HOW SAFE IS SELF MEDICATION AND ANTIBIOTIC MISUSE':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘How safe is self medication and antibiotic misuse’ at 4 PM on 22.11.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.21.11.2022:
WEST BENGAL STATE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS 19TH GENERAL BODY MEETING:
AIBSNLREA, West Bengal State Branch held its 19th GB meeting on 18th November 2022 at the CTO Hall, Kolkata with a record attendance of over 333 members. The meeting was conducted by a presidium consisted of S/Shri S.C. Roy, President, S.R. Palit, Vice President and Ranjan Mukherjee, Vice President and Timir Baran Chattopadhyay, Executive Committee Member. [View West Bengal page of State News section for full report]21.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA, MAHARASHTRA STATE BRANCH HOLD MEETING WITH Jt. CCA, MAHARASHTRA:
The representatives of AIBSNLREA, Maharashtra State Branch, comprising of S/Shri Vasudeva S.P.Varma Assistant State Secretary and B.S.Yadav, Member of Mumbai Division, met Jt CCA Maharashtra on 17.11.2022 and discussed the following issues: (1) Non receipt of Pensioners Identity Card: The Association pointed out that though many of its members submitted prescribed Form, only few received the Identity Cards, but most are yet to receive the same. Jt. CCA informed that huge number of application forms were received, and already many ID cards have been issued and remaining will be issued in a phased manner at the earliest. [View Maharashtra page of State News section for full report]17.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD BSNL ON PENSION CONTRIBUTION BY BSNL IN RESPECT OF ITS ABSORBED EMPLOYEES – CLARIFICATIONS REQUIRED BY DOE YET TO BE SUPPLIED BY BSNL:
Pension contribution by BSNL to the Government in respect of its absorbed employees, at the maximum of the pay scales, continues to remain not only a burden on BSNL finances but also a dampener for moving to the higher 3rd PRC pay scales. DoT vide its letter dated 02.01.2019, had listed five points on which DoE required clarification on the matter and had requested BSNL to get them examined and furnish clarifications to DoT for further deliberation in DoT and onward submission to DoE. While we believed that BSNL had submitted the clarifications and the matter is only pending with DoE, we are shocked to learn through a recent reply from DoT under RTI, that “reply from BSNL is still awaited.” AIBSNLREA has since taken up the matter with CMD BSNL requesting his personal and urgent attention to the issue, clearing any miscommunication between BSNL and DoT on the issue and immediate submission of the required clarifications, if not already submitted. View the letter17.11.2022:
DG CGHS ISSUES CLARIFICATIONS REGARDING BILLING BY CGHS EMPANELLED HOSPITALS:
Directorate of CGHS vide its OM F No.Z/1/2022-DIR(CGHS)-CGHS DEPARTMENT dated 10th November 2022 has reiterated its earlier clarifications and further clarifies that the empanelled hospitals shall not prepare two separate bills for the same period of treatment i.e., one separate bill to claim payment from CGHS/Department and another to be paid by the beneficiary. It has also prescribed other guidelines related to treatment and billing in respect of CGHS beneficiaries, which includes mentioning of generic names of the medicines prescribed and judicious use of antibiotics. View the DG CGHS OM17.11.2022:
DELHI CIRCLE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA FORMED:
In a meeting of the members of other Branches in Delhi held on 16.11.2022 in the Committee Room of Delhi State Industrial & Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd, New Delhi, a Circle Branch for AIBSNLREA, Delhi Circle was formed. In the meeting, the members discussed about the problems being faced in availing benefits from BSNLMRS and CGHS. They also raised the pension revision issue. Various suggestions came from them on Organizational issues. Seven new Life Members were also enrolled during the meeting. [View Delhi page of State News section for full report]15.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA SEEKS INTERVENTION OF SECRETARY (PENSION) ON THE ISSUE OF GRIEVANCE REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF BSNL RETIREES DESPITE CLEAR INSTRUCTIONS FROM BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:
AIBSNLREA has addressed a letter to Secretary (Pension) requesting his intervention, since many retirees are yet to receive payment of their pending bills up to 31.03.2022. Association has pointed out that it earlier brought to the notice of BSNL that “nothing has been done to process the pending medical bills of the retirees in SSAs and other Offices including BSNL Corporate Office to make the payment. Now it is learnt the SSAs even did not correctly inform the liability on this head following which fund allotment was said to be inadequate”. The Association has also pointed out that BSNL Corporate Office had even informed the Association, vide its No. BSNLCO.COMN/12(11)/20/2021-CA-ERP-FICO dated 26.10.2022, about the various actions taken by Corporate Office to clear the pending bills and the existence of several other instructions to mitigate the problems of the retirees. The Association, while seeking his intervention, has conveyed to Secretary (Pension) that “But it is regretted to state that nothing has been done to process the pending medical bills of the retirees in SSAs and other Offices including BSNL Corporate Office to make the payment”. View the letter14.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA DELHI CIRCLE TO HOLD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
A General Body meeting of All India BSNL Retired Executives’ Association, Delhi Circle will be held at ‘Delhi State Industrial & Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) Ltd.' A-3/4, State Emporia Building, 1st Floor Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi 110001 (opposite Hanuman Mandir, Connaught Place) on 16th November 2022 at about 14.00 PM. All the members of AIBSNLREA, Delhi Circle and other retired BSNL executives of Delhi, desirous to join the association as Life Members, are requested to attend the meeting.14.11.2022:
INDORE BRANCH (MP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GB MEETING:
Indore Branch of AIBSNLREA (Madhya Pradesh State) held a GB meeting on 12.11.2022. The meeting was presided over by Shri S K Jain, Branch President and 61 members attended the meeting. Discussions were held on different issues. The old body was then dissolved and Shri R N Rathore was nominated as election officer. A new body with S/Shri S K Jain as Branch President, K S Yadav as Vice President, N C Yadav as Branch Secretary, R B Banke as Asst. Branch secretary and R S Choudhary as Branch Finance Secretary were elected unanimously. Two new life members were also enrolled during the meeting.13.11.2022:
RAIPUR BRANCH OF CHHATTISGRAH STATE HOLD ITS GB MEETING:
Raipur Branch (Chhattisgarh State) of AIBSNLREA held its General Body Meeting on 12.11.2022. The meeting was presided over by Shri P Z Choradia, Circle President. The GB first observed silence for two minutes to condole the demise of Mrs Choradia and other eight members of the Branch during third wave of Corona. Discussions were then held on organisational matters and other issues. One new member joined the Association. It was decided to send S/Shri P Z Choradia and Ghanashyam Pandey as delegates in Kolkata AIC. The GB requested the delegates to discuss about Pension issue and arrangement for smooth transfer to SAMPAAN in the AIC. It was also decided to meet CGMT to discuss about the BSNLMRS related issues.12.11.2022:
DHANBAD BRANCH (JHARKHAND STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GB MEETING:
Dhanbad Branch (Jharkhand State) of AIBSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 11.11.2022 at the residence of Shri Narsingh Chakraborty. The meeting was presided over by Shri Prabhas Chowdhury. Five new Life Members joined the Association. After welcome address, Branch Secretary Shri Gayaprasad informed the House about the proposed All India Conference of the Association to be held at Kolkata. Four members would be sent to Kolkata as delegates to attend the AIC. Other issues like pension, medical facilities were also discussed in the meeting.11.11.2022:
BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER REGARDING REIMBURSEMENT OF CLAIMS FOR THE PAID TELEPHONE BILLS SUBMITTED BY THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES RESIDING IN THE SERVICE AREA OF MTNL DELHI AND MUMBAI:
AIBSNLREA vide its letter dated 12.09.2022 addressed to the Sr.GM CA/ERP-FICO), had requested to cause release of fund with instructions to all concerned to clear payment of all pending telephone bills of the retired BSNL employees residing in MTNL service area in Delhi and Mumbai. BSNL has now responded stating that "Payment of Telephone bills of Retirees will be done within November 2022" View the BSNL response11.11.2022:
REVISED ENTITLEMENT OF WARDS IN PRIVATE HOSPITALS EMPANELLED UNDER CGHS:
DoH&FW vide its OM No.S.11011/11/2016-CGHS(P)/EHS dated 28th October 2022 has issued an O.M. revising the entitlement of wards in private hospitals emapanelled under CGHS from the date of issue of the O.M., i.e 28.10.2022. View the DoH&FW OM09.11.2022:
DHANBAD BRANCH (JHARKHAND STATE) OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ITS GB MEETING:
A General Body Meeting of Dhanbad Branch (Jharkhand State) of AIBSNLREA will be held at 15.00 Hours of 11th November 2022 at the residence of Shri N Chakraborty (Mob No. 9431127077), Hirapur, Near SDE Central Office. All members and other retired BSNL Executives, desirous of joining the Association as Life-Members, are requested to attend the meeting. Branch Secretary Shri Gayaprasad may also be contacted at Mob No. 9304974005).09.11.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, AGRA BRANCH (UP STATE) HELD:
The GB Meeting of AIBSNLREA, Agra Branch was held at 1530 Hrs on 07.11.2022 in Hotel Poonam Plaza, New Agra. 19 Members out of 34 participated in the meeting. After welcoming the members,, the Branch Secretary Shri A K Dubey apprised the members on the issue of sudden enthusiasm in a section of Pensioners Association on the issue of delinking of pension revision from pay revision and application of 7th CPC fitment allowed to the Central Government Employees for pension revision.[View UP State page of State News section for full report]08.11.2022:
CLARIFICATION REGARDING INTEREST ON DELAYED PAYMENT OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION:
DoP&PW vide its OM No.42/15/2022-P&PW(D)7 dated 31st October 2022 has clarified that in cases where the CVP is paid after retirement, the reduction of the amount of commuted pension from the monthly pension becomes operative from the date on which CVP is paid. As per Rule 10A of CCS (Commutation of Pension) Rules, the commuted amount is restored on completion of fifteen years from the date of reduction of pension on account of commutation becomes operative in accordance with Rule 6. Since the pension continues to receive full pension till the date of payment of CVP, the question of payment of any interest on delayed payment of commutation of pension does not arise. View the DoP&PW OM07.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA THANJAVUR BA BRANCH HELD ITS GB MEETING:
The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Thanjavur BA was conducted at Kumbakonam on 06.11.22 under the Presidentship of Shri.E.Rajasekaran. Despite heavy rains, a good number of members attended the General body meeting. Two minutes silence was observed paying respect to our founder President Shri.R.Krishnarao, who passed away recently. BSNL Pensioner's issues, MRS Medical bill /Medical Allowance payment issues, CGHS / FMA and most importantly Pay Revision / Pension Revision Status were discussed. Branch President Shri.E.Rajasekaran, Branch Secretary Shri.R.J.Christopher and Tamilnadu State Secretary Shri.M.S.Radhakrishnan delivered speeches on various current issues pertaining to BSNL pensioners.07.11.2022:
AIBSNLREA COIMBATORE BRANCH AGB MEETING HELD:
The AGB meeting of AIBSNLREA Coimbatore Branch was held under the Presidentship of Shri M. Ponnuswamy, DGM (Retired) on 2.11.2022, at Sri Krishnavilas Hotel, Coimbatore. The meeting started by observing one minute silence to pay homage to the members who lost their lives during the past three years. Our Branch Vice President Shri K. Thangavelu paid homage to the deceased members Shri Vidyasagar, Shri S. Ramakrishnan and Shri K. Mylswamy. [View Tamilnadu Page of State News section for full report]06.11.2022:
E-JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2022 ISSUE:
November 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "PENSION CONTRIBUTION - THE FIRST HURDLE TO CROSS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.03.11.2022:
NATION-WIDE CAMPAIGN FOR SUBMISSION OF DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATE:
DoP&PW vide its OM No.1(3)/2022-P&PW(H)-8371 dated 2nd November 2022 has launched nation-wide campaign to spread awareness amongst Pensioners and PDAs for use of DLC/Face Authentication Technology to submit Digital Life Certificate. It has stipulated roles of Banks, Ministries/Departments, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Pensioners' Associations and India Post Payments Bank, in the campaign. In the attachment to the OM, the steps to be followed for the process of submitting Life Certificate through "FACE AUTHENTICATION" is also explained. View the DoP&PW OM31.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW REQUESTING RESTORATION OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION IN 7 YEARS:
AIBSNLREA draws the attention of Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW to an undeniable fact that since then during the past six years, the interest rates on loans given by banks have come down drastically and the commutated amount of pension will have been recovered in full along with the interest element thereon, in less than 7 years. Concurring with this fact, even the State Governments have started reducing the number of years in which the commuted value of pension is restored. AIBSNLREA has requested that the issue may be examined again, and necessary orders be issued early, restoring the commuted value of pension in 7 years. View the letter30.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA COIMBATORE BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:
AIBSNLREA Coimbatore Branch will hold its AGB Meeting on 2nd November 2022 from 10.00 AM onwards. All members and interested Retied BSNL Executives are requested to attend the meeting.27.10.2022:
BSNL CO RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 06.10.2022 ADDRESSED TO GM (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO ON CONFUSION AND FRUSTRATION CREATED BY INEPT HANDLING OF IMPLEMENTATION OF BSNL CO INSTRUCTIONS BY CIRCLES IN PAYMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS OF RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES:
In a detailed response GM (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO, has listed the steps taken by BSNL CO, steps to be taken by the Circles, instructions already existing on such steps, obligation on the part of the retired employees in ensuring that correct bank details, Mobile number and Email ID are entered in the system and has said that the Circles are being requested through emails also to clear all the medical liabilities of retired employees. View the BSNL letter27.10.2022:
CLARIFICATION REGARDING WHETHER DEDUCTIONS TOWARDS COMMUTATION ARE REQUIRED TO BE MADE FROM FAMILY PESION FOR THE REMAINING PERIOD IN CASES WHERE THE PENSIONER DIES BEFORE THE RESTORATION OF COMMUTED PENSION:
DoP&PW vide its OM No.42/15/2022-P&PW(D)/5 dated 25th October 2022, has clarified that in such cases monthly commuted amount of pension is not required to be deducted from family pension and family pension shall be paid in full without any deductiion in this regard. View the DoP&PW OM27.10.2022:
DEDUCTION OF COMMUTED PENSION FROM THE PENSION REVISED IN IMPLEMENTATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS OF PAY COMMISSION ETC:
DoP&PW vide its OM No.42/15/2022-P&PW(D)/4 dated 25th October 2022, has clarified that in such cases the portion/amount of pension which was originally commuted shall only be deducted from the revised pension. View the DoP&PW OM27.10.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF MADURAI BRANCH (TAMILNADU STATE) HELD:
The Annual General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Madurai Branch was held on 26-10-2022 under the Presidenthip of Shri. B.Rathinavelu. Majority of the members attended the meeting. Branch Secretary Shri.R.Ramachandran welcomed all to the meeting. Two minutes silence was observed to pay respect to the recently departed members of the branch, A Palaniappan, R.Kalyanasundaram and P.Kathiresan. Tamilnadu State Secretary Shri.M.S.Radhakrishnan delivered the special address. [View Tamilnadu page of State News section for full report]26.10.2022:
CLARIFICATION REGARDING PENSION TO BE TAKEN FOR COMMUTATION AFTER REITREMENT:
In order to clear doubts raised as to which pension i.e pension authorised at the time of retirement or the pension revised subsequently and payable at the time of application for commutation shall be allowed to be commuted, DoP&PW vide its OM No.42/15/2022-P&PW(D)/3 dated 25th October 2022, has clarified that those who retired from 01.01.2016 till 04.08.2016 i.e the date of issue of orders for revised pay/pension based on the recommendations of the 7th CPC, may be given an option, in relaxation of Rule 10 of (CCS (Commutation of Pension) Rules 1981, not to commute the pension which has become additionally commutable on revision of pay/pension on implementation of recommendations of the 7th CPC. The cases where the additional pension after 7th CPC has already been commuted will not be re-opened. In cases where the pension was authorised on retirement before 01.01.2016 and the pensioner applied for commutation on or after 01.01.2016 the pension which was originally sanctioned at the time of retirement only shall be allowed to be commuted. View the DoP&PW OM26.10.2022:
CLARIFICATION REGARDING COMMUTATION VALUE FOR GOVERNMENT SERVANT WHOSE DATE OF BIRTH IS THE FIRST OF A MONTH AND WHO RETIRES ON THE AFTERNOON OF THE LAST DAY OF THE PRECEDING MONTH :
DoP&PW vide its OM No.42/15/2022-P&PW(D)/2 dated 25th October 2022, has clarified that in the case of such Government servants who retire on attaining the age of 60 years, the age next birthday will be 61 years, including cases where the date of birth is first of a month and the Government servant retires on the afternoon of the last day of the preceding month. Therefore the commutation value of 61 years (i.e. age on next birthday) will be applicable in this case. View the DoP&PW OM23.10.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF KOLHAPUR BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HELD:
Kolhapur Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBSNLREA held its Quarterly GB Meeting on 16.10.2022 in the Conference Hall of TeleBhavan, Kolhapur under the chairmanship of Shri. P S Kulkarni. Meeting started with Prayer which was followed by the opening address by the President who welcomed all the Members from Kolhapur, Sangli, Ratnagiri. He also referred to the issues like Medical Bill Payments, Pension revision etc which he said will be detailed by the Branch Secretary. He informed the House about publication of his third Book on “Collection of Public Grievance that he made to Local Papers.” Smt Vijaya Keni, a new member joining the Association, was then welcomed by the Secretary and President with presentation of Bouquet who then introduced herself to the House. [View Maharashtra page of State News section for full report]23.10.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'JOINT DISORDERS AND ROLE OF HOMEOPATHY':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Joint disorders and Role of Homeopathy’ at 4 PM on 25.10.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.20.10.2022:
ISSUE OF ORDERS BY DOT RESTRAINING THE CCAS NOT TO GO BACK TO A PERIOD EARLIER THAN 24 MONTHS PRECEDING THE DATE OF RETIREMENT FOR PASSING OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO PAY FIXATION MATTERS :
Ever since Department of Posts, in consultation with DoP&PW, issued a circular in July 2020 advising that the officers in DAP should in any case not go back to a period earlier than 24 months preceding the date of retirement for raising observation relating to pay fixation etc., AIBSNLREA has been taking up the matter with DoT for issue of a similar circular to CCAs. DoT remained silent all along, but in response to our recent letter dated 13.09.2022 addressed to the Secretary DoT on the same subject, DoT has responded now that "the desired provision has already been disseminated vide this HQ letter No.7-45/2018/BSNL MISC/TA-1/2939-74 dated 2nd December 2020" and has enclosed the letter. View the DoT reply and order20.10.2022:
PCCA TAMILNADU RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 19.09.2022 ADDRESSED TO DOT ON SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES OF THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019 DURING CURRENCY OF PENALTY – REQUEST FOR EARLY ISSUE OF CLARIFICATION SOUGHT FOR BY CCA TAMILNADU:
In spite of AIBSNLREA reminding DoT that it has not issued the PCCA requested clarification on the subject, even after passing of more than two years, DoT sends our letter to PCCA Tamilnadu who repeats the same wrong contention that PG Portal is meant for settlement of grievances submitted by individual pensioners and not the Association. We have filed an appeal. View the PCCA TN response19.10.2022:
BSNL CO AGAIN WRITES TO ALL CIRCLES ON PAYMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS OF RETIRED EMPLOYEES:
BSNL CO again writes to all Circles pointing out that out of Rs.316 crores allotted to Circles, still Rs.33 crores are still lying unutilised though funds were allotted as per the data furnished by the Circles themselves. The letter has sought for details from Circles by 21st October 2022 regarding bills upto 31.3.2022 which are still pending for payment. View the BSNL letter19.10.2022:
DOT PROPOSALS ON PENSION REVISION BUILT ON FALSE FOUNDATION - AIBSNLREA CAUTIONS DOT:
The much-hyped meeting of DoT with some BSNL pensioners' associations on 17.10.2022 "to discuss the issues regarding request for revision of pension of BSNL/MTNL absorbed employees as per 3rd PRC w.e.f. 01.01.2017”, has ended with the pensioners' associations submitting their respective known views on pension revision. DoT on its part has made a power point presentation of the observations made by DoP&PW on DoT-proposals, while returning the file to DoT. While the pensioners' associations have rejected the so called 0.02% fitment benefit offered by DoT, DoT is said to have remained non-committal on increasing the percentage.Some associations have expressed their satisfaction that delinking pension revision from pay revision is decided. But this is not the first time that we hear about one or other agreeing to delink pension revision from pay revision. At one point of time, it was even claimed that the then MOC had agreed to de-linking of pension revision from pay scale revision. But the MOC and MOSC have been repeatedly stating in Parliament that pension of BSNL IDA pensioners can be revised only after revision of pay scales. DoP&PW, while returning the file has also reminded DoT that “some BSNL/MTNL Pensioners’ Associations have filed a few Petitions seeking revision of pension based on 3rd PRC recommendations. DoPPW is also named as a respondent in these petitions. DoT/BSNL have filed replies in the CAT defending these petitions. This aspect may also be kept in view by DoT while finalising their proposal for revision of pension of BSNL/MTNL pensioners.” That is why DoP&PW has returned the file requesting DoT "to consult Department of Expenditure before finalising their proposals in this respect." Although DoP&PW has said that it may not have any objection to the DoT proposals in view of the fact that DoT being the administrative Ministry for BSNL is in the best position to make a realistic evaluation of all relevant aspects and to decide the fitment benefit to be given to the pensioners for revision of their pension and in view of the fact that DoT's proposal is likely to result in only 5% additional financial implications, it remained non-committal on DoT proposal for amending pension rules stating that it may be considered as and when the need arises. It also refused to be associated with any committee as suggested by DoT.
When we had the information about the contents of DoT proposals, we were shocked to find that DoT has worked out the entire proposals based on a wrong interpretation of DPE guidelines that "3rd PRC recommended the formulations of fitment benefit of 15%, 10%, 5% and NIL, based on additional financial impact of pay package as a %age of average Profit Before Tax (PBT) of last 3 FYs of the PSU preceding the year of implementation." But the fact remains that the DPE OM vide No. W-02/0028/2017-DPE(WC)-GL-XIII/17 dated 3rd August 2017, has categorically specified that "No fitment or any other benefit of pay revision will be implemented in the CPSEs where the additional financial impact of the revised pay package is more than 40% of the average PBT of last 3 financial years." Nowhere in its entire Office Memorandum, DPE has provided for "fitment benefit of 15%, 10%, 5% and NIL".
This intentional/unintentional totally wrong citation of DPE OM in a serious issue like pension revision, compelled us to write to Secretary, DoT cautioning against further proceeding with the proposal of non-existent NIL fitment. We hope that the concerned authorities will realise the serious factual error that they made and make amends. At least from now, all the BSNL Pensioners associations should start laying emphasis on securing pay revision of BSNL employees, instead of beating around the bush. View AIBSNLREA letter to Secretary, DoT
19.10.2022:
PRAYAGRAJ BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD A GB MEETING:
Prayagraj Branch (UP State) held a General Body meeting on 15th October, 2022. Election of delegates, migration to SAMPANN for pension disbursement and issue of Identity Cards to the pensioners by the CCA Office etc were discussed. Three delegates namely, S/Shri S.M.Tiwari, Damodar Prasad and H R Shukla were elected to attend the AIC to be held in Kolkata.19.10.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF VADODARA BRANCH HELD:
Vadodara Branch (Gujarat State) held its quarterly General Body meeting at 11.00 hrs of 14th October 2022 at Hotel UTSAV. 84 members attended the meeting. 10 new members joined the branch. Five delegates were selected for AIC, Kolkata. 74 Forms with required documents and photos were collected from the members for the Identity Card being issued by CCA, Gujarat. Information is being collected from the members who have still not got medical and CGHS reimbursement to pursue with the appropriate authorities. Branch Secretary Shri R T Shah briefed the members about issues like pension revision, periodical increase in pension of those reaching 65, 70 and 75 years of age etc. After the meeting, delicious lunch was served.18.10.2022:
BSNL CO RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 04.10.2022 REQUESTING TO ISSUE CLARIFICATION SOUGHT BY GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE REGARDING COVID TREATMENT TAKEN IN NON-EMPANELLED HOSPITALS DURING THE FIRST WAVE IN 2020:
Referring to AIBSNLREA letter dated 04.10.2022, BSNL CO has addressed CGM Gujarat Telecom Circle clarifying that specific relaxations under BSNLMRS in view of Covid-19 pandemic have been issued appropriately as per the prevailing health advisories and intensity of pandemic and should not be generalised. However, indoor medical treatment under emergency at non-empanelled hospital may be processed as per existing guidelines dated 28.02.2003 and 23.08.2006. View the BSNL letter18.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF BSNL ORDERS TO MAKE PAYMENT BY 15.10.2022 OF ALL MEDICAL BILLS PENDING UPTO 31.03.2022 OF THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES - MOSTLY DUE TO NON-PROCESSING/CLEARANCE OF THE PENDING BILLS BY SSAS/CIRCLES AND EVEN BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE- REQUEST FOR IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SAID ORDERS.:
AIBSNLREA has drawn attention of Director (HR) BSNL, that despite the clear Orders issued by Sr General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL Corporate Office to all the CGMS/IFAs, vide BSNL Office letter No. BSNLCO-CA/25/4/2021-CA-ERP-FICO dated 30.08.2022 to arrange payment of all pending medical bills up to 31.03.2022 to the retired BSNL Employees, the instructions contained in his Order still remain unaccomplished. This is mostly because the concerned Sections in SSAs/Circles and the L&A Section in BSNL Corporate Office reportedly did not post the processed Medical Bills in ERP, while waiting for release of funds. AIBSNLREA has requested him to intervene and advise the Circles to expedite processing and posting in ERP of all the pending Medical Bills up to 31.03.2022 of the retired BSNL Employees and make payment without further delay. View the letter17.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY, DOT:
In a letter addressed to the Secretary DoT, AIBSNLREA has pointed out a major and serious factual error in the DoT proposal on Revision of pension of pre-2017 BSNL absorbed pensioners and fixation of pension of post-2017 BSNL absorbed pensioners claiming to be based on 3rd PRC recommended formulations, which had been sent to the DoP&PW. While cautioning the Secretary DoT of possible embarrassment that this error could cause to DoT, AIBSNLREA has requested him to cause corrective measures immediately so that the entire effort by DoT to find a solution to pension revision of BSNL absorbed pensioners does not become futile. Details to be posted later.17.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA GUJARAT STATE OFFICE BEARERS MEET CCA GUJARAT CIRCLE:
AIBSNLREA GUJARAT State office bearers met the new CCA Gujarat Circle Smt. Jayati Sanaddar on 14.10.2022 and welcomed her in the new assignment. Issues like application for identity card, dispatch of prepared identity card to Pensioners, migration of Pensioners and submission of Life certificate by the migrated pensioners were discussed. The CCA was pleased to issue the instructions regarding completion of the process of receiving of identity card application and issue of identity card to the pensioners soon. She said that all Pensioners whose identity cards are ready will be informed through SMS. The discussion was very cordial and healthy. She assured all necessary help to all the Pensioners.17.10.2022:
GB MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, ODISHA STATE BRANCH HELD:
A General Body of Odisha State Branch of AIBSNLREA was held in the Seminar Hall of G.M. TD, Bhubaneswar office on 08.10.2022 which started with the welcome address by Shri Bibhu Prasad Mishra, Organising Secretary. It was followed by a two minutes silence to pay homage to our departed member Shri Bhajendra Kumar Mohanty. After introduction of total 31 participants, State Secretary Shri Pravat Kar gave the update of Pension revision initiatives taken by the Association and also the current initiatives taken for medical bill arrear payments. [View Odisha page of State News section for full report]15.10.2022:
EAST VIDARBHA (NAGPUR) BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS BINNANUAL GB MEETING:
East Vidarbha Branch (Nagpur) of AIBSNLREA held its Bi annual Meeting at Dr Ambedkar Hall, Uroovela Colony, Wardha Road, Nagpur on Tuesday, 11th October,2022. Shri B D Nikam, President Nagpur Branch presided over the meeting. S/Shri P R Bhujbal, Vice President CHQ, N G Talewar VP, MH Circle, V W Patil, VP, Bhola Kamble, ACS MH State were on the dais. At the start of the meeting, homage was paid to the departed members of Nagpur Branch and also other family members. After introductory speech, Shri N R Rachkondawar, Branch Secretary, Nagpur welcomed the newly enrolled members and addressed the house and briefed the activities of Nagpur Branch. [View Maharashtra page of State News section for full report]14.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL ON CONDONATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE DELAY IN ISSUING APPOINTMENT LETTER TO SHRI A K DUBEY, RETD AGM, AGRA UNDER RULE-22 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES, 1972, FOR COUNTING OF PRE-APPOINTMENT TRAINING AS QUALIFYING SERVICE FOR PENSION:
AIBSNLREA has now drawn attention of Director (HR) BSNL, towards DoP&PW O.M. No.28/90/2022-P&PW(B)/8297 dated 02.10.2022 providing that “where the period of interruption in excess of joining time is due the training and regular appointment being at different stations, such period of interruption in excess of joining time is required to be regularised by grant of leave of the kind due or if no such leave is due, by grant of extraordinary leave by the Head of the Department. The period of interruption regularised by grant of extraordinary leave in such cases is required to be counted as qualifying service” and requested Director (HR) call for records from the Establishment Branch and issue instructions to condone the administrative delay in the case of Shri A K Dubey, thus rendering justice and relieving him of his mental agony for nearly 3 years. View the letter13.10.2022:
CGMT MAHARASHTRA CIRCLE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO GENEREAL MANAGER (ADMIN) BSNL CO ON INORDINATE DELAY IN REIMBURSEMENT OF ONE-TIME SUBSCRIPTION PAID TO CGHS – CASE OF SHRI HOSIE S PITHAWALA, RETD DE, RTTC, NAGPUR:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 03.10.2022 addressed to the General Manager (Admn) BSNL CO on Inordinate delay in reimbursement of one-time subscription paid to CGHS – Case of Shri Hosie S Pithawala, Retd DE, RTTC, Nagpur, CGMT Maharashtra has furnished a compliance report from GMT BSNL Nagpur which states that "payment of CGHS care cannot be processed due to non authorisation error in case of Shri H S Pithawala. On 11.10.2022 letter has been sent to Shri H S Pithawala asking to submit copy of superannuation struck off order and copy of absorption letter so that mantis can be booked in SAP to solve the issue." View the CGMT Maharashtra letter13.10.2022:
GB MEETING OF PALAKKAD BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD:
A General Body of Palakkad Branch (Kerala State) was held on Tuesday the 11 October 2022 at Top In Town Auditorium, Palakkad. 56 members attended the meeting. The meeting started at 11 AM after a silent prayer and obituary reference to our departed member Shri K.C.Balasubramanian, Retd JTO who left to his heavenly abode last month. The Secretary welcomed the gathering. During the presidential address, and subsequent discussions on organisational matters, the President and the Branch Secretary Shri P Prabhakaran explained in detail the latest developments regarding pension revision and payment of medical claims etc. A telephone directory of all our members with colour photos was published and it was distributed among the members. The GB unanimously elected S/Shri A L Viswanathan, Retd DGM and K Gopinathan, Retd SDE as delegates to attend the AIC to be held at Kolkata. The meeting was concluded after vote of thanks presented by Shri T.P .Krishnan Unni, Asst Branch Secretary and the Lunch at 14.00 hrs.12.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DoT REQUESTING IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF GOVERNMENT’S DECISION TO ACHIEVE PAY SCALE PARITY OF MTNL AND BSNL BY BRINGING DOWN THE PAY SCALES OF MTNL TO THE LEVEL OF BSNL PAY SCALES AT THE TIME OF NEXT WAGE REVISION:
AIBSNLREA has now drawn attention of Secretary (Telecom), DoT, towards the DoT OM No. 42-4/2012-Pen(T) dated 28.04.2014 circulating the copy of the Gazette Notification vide GSR 135(E) dated 03.03.2014 issued by DoP&PW wherein the Government had communicated its decision at Para (d) of the said OM that an arrangement as specified in para (c ) of the OM shall continue till next wage revision by which time MTNL and BSNL shall achieve pay scale parity by bringing down the pay scales of MTNL to the level of BSNL pay scales. Now that 3rd PRC recommendations are not getting implemented for BSNL Executives for one reason or the other, AIBSNLREA has requested that the Pay Scales of BSNL Executives be raised at the level of MTNL Executives w.e.f. 01.01.2017, in the light of the above decisions of the Government”. View the letter11.10.2022:
GB MEETING OF UDAIPUR BRANCH (RAJASTHAN STATE) OF AIBSNLREA:
Udaipur Branch (Rajasthan State) of AIBSNLREA held its General Body Meeting on 10.09.2022 in Town Hall under the chairmanship of Shri M P Vyas, Branch President. Shri Gaffar Mohd, Branch Secretary, presented before the House the details of the Notice and Circular issued by General Secretary regarding the All India Conference to be held at Kolkata on 7th and 9th January, 2023. He requested the members, willing to attend the AIC as delegates, to give their names. The problems being faced by the CGHS beneficiaries and pension revision issue etc were also discussed. Shri Sankar Lal Tamboli, a senior member of the Association, was felicitated by the House and also honoured with Shawl and Mewari Pagri by the President on his attaining the age of 80 years. The meeting concluded after presentation of Vote of Thanks.11.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON ATTAINING THE AGE OF 65, 70 AND 75 YEARS, THIS TIME BRINGING TO HIS NOTICE THAT GOVERMENT OF HIMACHAL PRADESH HAS IMPLEMENTED SUCH A SCHEME AS EARLY AS IN THE YEAR 2014:
AIBSNLREA has now drawn attention of Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW that the Government of Himachal Pradesh has been already granting additional pension in the name of pension allowance @5%, 10% and 15% on basic pension/family pension to the State Government pensioners/family pensioners, including AIS pensioners/family pensioners on attaining the age of 65 years, 70 years and 75 years respectively, since the year 2014. This information has invigorated the hopes of the Central Government Pensioners/family pensioners and has heightened their expectations. We have therefore, requested that early orders are issued in this matter as it is already eight months since the Parliamentary Committee made the recommendation. View the letter11.10.2022:
DoP&PW ISSUES GAZETTE NOTIFICATION AMENDING CCS (PENSION) RULES 2021:
Vide its Gazette Notification dated 7th October 2022, DoP&PW has made amendments to CCS (Pension) Rules, 2021, substituting sub rule (1) of rule 8, providing powers to withhold or withdraw pension to Secretary of the Administrative Ministry or Department in the case of a pensioner who retired from a post for which an authority subordinate to the President is the appointing authority and to the CAG of India in the case of a pensioner who retired from the Indian Audit and Accounts Department from a post for which an authority subordinary to the President is appointing authority. President will have these powers only in the case of a pensioner who retired from a post for which the President is the appointing authority. View the Notification10.10.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'CHILD NUTRITION, GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT, VACCINE PREVENTABLE DISEASES AND IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Child Nutrition, growth & development, Vaccine Preventable Diseases and Immunization schedule’ at 4 PM on 11.10.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.08.10.2022:
LUCKNOW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HOLD GB MEETING:
A General Body Meeting of Lucknow Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 07.10.2022 in the Committee Hall of Laplace Door Sanchar Sadan Lucknow under the Chairmanship of Shri B L Mishra, Branch President. S/Shri R S Arora, UP State Secretary and M K Shukla, State President were also present in the meeting. 30 members attended the meeting. One new member Shri V P Singh Retd. DGM from UP East Circle (former District Secretary of Lucknow Branch of AIBSNLEA) joined the Association. The House paid homage to 18 Life Members who expired during the intervening period between the last GB meeting held on 25.11.2019 and till 07.10.2022. Most of these deceased members were the victims of Covid-19. The House then elected S/Shri R S Arora State Secretary, Ambika Singh, State Finance Secretary and S P Singh, Lucknow Branch Secretary as delegates to attend the AIC at Kolkata. The House agreed to pay a special contribution @ Rs 500/- each for All India Conference and also for proposed Branch Conference in November- December 2022. Most of the members present in the meeting paid their contribution. Payment status of Medical bills (Indoor, Outdoor and Medical Allowance) was discussed at length in the light of Corporate Office Orders issued on 30.08.2022 which clearly stated payment of all pending medical claims up to 31-3-2022 for which funds have also been allotted. It was decided that those whose medical claims remain unpaid after 15.10.2022 would give the details (in a representation to the Unit Head) and forward the same to Shri Ashok Srivastava, Branch Finance Secretary on his WhatsApp number 7007209821 for further action. The stand of CHQ on the issue of Pension Revision was explained to the members. The Association is always of the view that "Pay Revision of employees will itself lead to Pension Revision as per settled law on matter". This has largely been elaborated in September, 2022 issue of " e- journal " posted on Association website and WhatsApp. The House was also informed that in the matter of Court case on "Pay & Pension arrears issues”, next date of hearing has been fixed as 23.01.2023 by Delhi High court. Tea and snacks were served in the meeting which concluded after presentation of Vote of Thanks by the President.08.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA GUJARAT STATE BODY TO HOLD E-EXECUTIVE MEETING:
State Body of AIBSNLREA Gujarat will be holding its Executive Meeting online today from 1425 to 1545 Hrs through GoogleMeet, to discuss about AIC to be held at Kolkata on 7th and 8th January 2023, election of delegates, amendments to constitution etc. Video link has been sent to all the Executive Committee members through WhatsApp and they are requested to attend the meeting positively.07.10.2022:
CLEARANCE OF PENDING LIABILITY/POSTING/CREATION OF LIABILITY OF MEDICAL BILLS OF RETIRED EMPLOYEES IN ERP-SAP:
CBB section of BSNL Corporate Office has issued a letter vide No.16-4/2019RB/Fund/Auth/MISC/PI-I(P)/dated 07.10.2022 to Circles intimating that our of Rs.361 crores authorised to Circles for clearing all pending medical liabilities (Indoor/Outdoor/Medical Allowance) upto 31.03.2022 to retired employees, only liabilities of Rs.262 crores have been cleared in SAP and has requested Circles to clear all the pending liabilities for which funds have been authorised latest by 15th October 2022 positively. It further requests that the Circles should ensure that no old/liability prior to 31.03.2022 should appear in the retired employee vendor account group. View the BSNL letter06.10.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.10.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 195.8% w.e.f 01.10.2022 in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.2007. View the DPE OM06.10.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.10.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 399.5% w.e.f 01.10.2022, in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.1997. View the DPE OM06.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO ON PAYMENT OF MEDICAL BILLS TO RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES – CONFUSION AND FRUSTRATION CAUSED BY INEPT HANDLING OF IMPLEMENTATION OF BSNL CO INSTRUCTIONS BY CIRCLES:
AIBSNLREA has written to GM (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CO, drawing his attention to the fact that while the BSNL CO letter dated 30.08.2022 had raised enormous hope among the BSNL retired employees that their long pending medical claims will be settled now, after one month of issue of the said letter, they are left feeling frustrated with a large number of them still to get the amount reimbursed. The letter points out the reasons for this situation and submits suggestions for consideration so as to remove all the confusion and frustration caused by inept handling of implementation of the instructions contained in BSNL letter dated 30.08.2022. View the letter06.10.2022:
E-JOURNAL OCTOBER 2022 ISSUE:
October 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "WITH MALICE TOWARDS NONE..." has been uploaded. Past issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. View the E-Journal October 202204.10.2022:
AMRAVATI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HOLD GB MEETING:
Amravavati Branch (Maharashtra State) of AIBNSNLREA held a General Body Meeting on 30.09.2022. The meeting started at 14.00 hrs at the Conference Hall of GM Teleco0m, Amravati under the chairmanship of Shri R. W. Tidke , Branch President. 24 members attended the meeting. At the start of the meeting, two minutes’ silence was observed to pay the homage to the departed members i.e. S/Shri V.P. Agrawal, Retd-DE, H J Pate, -Retd SDE, A A Ghike, Retd SDE and V N Hade, Retd AGM. Branch Secretary, Shri D. V. Rokade , informed the House about the developments taken place after the last meeting. He stated that most of the pending medical claims are settled and payments have been received. He also informed the House about selection of delegates for Kolkata A.I.C to be held on 7th and 8th of January, 2023 and arrangement for the Divisional Conference of Amravati Branch to be held in the month of December, 2022, Shri V. G. Dakhode , State Secretary , AIBSNLREA , Maharashtra State Branch briefed the House about the latest position of the Court Case and other key issues pertaining to f the BSNL being pursued at State and All India level. The queries raised by the members were also duly replied by him. The meeting with vote of thanks presented by Shri M.Z.Shinde , Financial Secretary of the Branch..04.10.2022:
COUNTING OF PERIODS SPENT ON TRAINING AS QUALIFYING SERVICE FOR PENSION AND GRATUITY UNDER CCS (PENSION) RULES, 2021:
DoP&PW vide its O.M. No.28/90/2022-P&PW(B)/8297 dated 02.10.2022, has requested all Ministries/Departments to bring to the notice of the personnel dealing with the pensionary benefits that where the period of interruption in excess of joining time is due the training and regular appointment being at different stations, such period of interruption in excess of joining time is required to be regularised by grant of leave of the kind due or if no such leave is due, by grant of extraordinary leave by the Head of the Department. The period of interruption regularised by grant of extraordinary leave in such cases is required to be counted as qualifying service. View the DoP&PW OM04.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE GENERAL MANAGER (ADMIN) BSNL CO ON GUIDELINES UNDER BSNL MRS IN VIEW OF COVID PANDEMIC – TREATMENT IN NON-EMPANELLED HOSPITALS – CLARIFICATION SOUGHT BY GUJARAT TELECOM CIRCLE:
BSNL orders dated 03.05.2021 and 11.01.2022 on COVID treatment in non-empanelled hospitals did not cover those who had emergency COVID-19 treatment in non-empanelled hospitals during the first wave of the pandemic, in the year 2020. Consequent to queries regarding processing of claims for reimbursement in similar cases, Gujarat Circle has been writing to the Corporate Office seeking clarification on the matter. AIBSNLREA has written to the GM Admin BSNL CO requesting that necessary clarification may be issued by BSNL Corporate Office to all Circles in order to remove any doubt and also to enable all those who had to take emergency COVID-19 treatment in non-empanelled hospitals to get their hospital treatment expenditure reimbursed, irrespective of the year in which such COVID-19 treatment became necessary. View the letter03.10.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE GENERAL MANAGER (ADMIN) BSNL CO ON INORDINATE DELAY IN REIMBURSEMENT OF ONE-TIME SUBSCRIPTION PAID TO CGHS – CASE OF SHRI HOSIE S PITHAWALA, RETD DE, RTTC, NAGPUR:
Shri Hosie S Pithawala, Retd DE, RTTC, Nagpur had submitted a request in the prescribed format after making online payment of Rs.78,030/- through State Bank of India on 15.10.2021 towards one-time subscription to CGHS. He is yet to receive reimbursement which is being unduly delayed reportedly due to the RTTC administration not authorizing the PGMT Nagpur to access the records of Shri Hosie S Pithawala, Retd DE, RTTC, Nagpur. AIBSNLREA has since taken up the issue with the GM Admin BSNL CO requesting him to ensure that the amount is reimbursed without further delay. View the letter01.10.2022:
SUBMISSION OF LIFE CERTIFICATE - DIFFERENT MODES AVAILABLE TO PENSIONERS:
DoP&PW vide its O.M. No.1(8)/2021-P&PW(H)-7468 dated 30.09.2022, while reminding the pensioners above the age 80 years that they can submit Annual Life Certificate from 1st October onwards, instead of 1st November, has once again summarised the different modes available to a pensioner for submission of Life Certificate. View the DoP&PW OM30.09.2022:
IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.10.2022:
According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for the months June 2022, July and August 2022, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.10.2022 is 195.8%% [increase by 5%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and 399.4%% [increase by 8.4%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.28.09.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, KURUKSHETRA BRANCH HELD:
A General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Kurukshetra Branch was held to-day i.e. on 28.09.2022 at 11.00 in Neelkanthi Yatri Niwas, Kurukshetra. Shri S. K Verma, Branch President presided over the meeting. 25 members of the Branch attended the meeting and five new life members from Kaithal were enrolled as Life Members in the meeting. At the very outset, tributes were paid to the memory of Smt Kiran Aggarwal, w/o late Shri Sushil Kumar Aggarwal and Smt. Shakuntala Devi wife of Shri Jogi Ram, State Secretary, Haryana. Smt Aggarwal and Smt Shakuntala Devi expired very recently. Thereafter, the members were briefed about various issues of interest taken up by the General Secretary at CHQ level viz pay/pension revision, IDA expected, status of Court case, notional increment, All India Conference and CGHS related issues etc. Four delegates were elected to represent the branch in the forthcoming AIC to be held at Kolkata in January next. These are besides two ex-officio delegate viz the Org Secretary (North) and the State Secretary, Haryana. The meeting concluded after a vote of thanks for the chair followed by a sumptuous lunch.27.09.2022:
RELEASE OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOLLOWING QUASHING OF CHARGE SHEET ISSUED A DAY PRIOR TO RETIREMENT - CASE OF SHRI B M NYAMATI RETD CAO BENGALURU TELECOM DISTRICT:
AGS AIBSNLREA Shri V P Arya visited BSNL CO again yesterday and had discussions with concerned officials on the issue. He was informed that certain formalities are to be followed before agreeing to our contention and therefore the file has been sent to Legal Section.26.09.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'HEALTH CARE OF ELDERLY':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Health care of elderly’ at 4 PM on 27.09.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.26.09.2022:
BHOPAL BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HOLD ITS GB MEETING:
Bhopal Branch (Madhya Pradesh State) of AIBSNLREA hold a General Body Meeting on 18.09.2022. The meeting was presided over by Shri K Nagarajan, Branch President and 50 members attended the meeting. The gathering was addressed by S/Shri Nagarajan and B S Rajput, Oraganising Secretary (Central). Discussions were held on different issues concerning the BSNL IDA pensioners and other organizational issues. Old Body was then dissolved and a new Body with S/Shri K Nagarajan as Branch President, Dr H S Saxena as Branch Secretary and T R Jain as Branch Finance Secretary was elected unanimously. Three new Life Members were also enrolled during the meeting.22.09.2022:
NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA, PATIALA (PUNJAB STATE) FORMED:
In a meeting of the retired BSNL Executives held to-day i.e. 22.09.2022 at Markanda Complex, Patiala, a new Branch of AIBSNLREA at Patiala (Punjab State) has been formed with S/Shri Mewa Singh as President, Shri Balbir Singh as Branch Secretary and Shri M P Singh as Branch Finance Secretary. The meeting started at 11.30 AM and Shri D S Sandhu, Organising Secretary (North), AIBSNLREA presided over the meeting. In his address, he briefed the gathering about status of various issues confronting the BSNL pensioners, viz Pay/Pension revision, CGHS related issues and status of Court case on pay/pension arrears etc. The meeting also elected S/Shri R S Sandhu, Balbir Singh, B M Jain and Sohan Singh as the delegates from the Branch to attend the All India Conference of AIBSNLREA to be held at Kolkata on 7th and 8th January, 2023. View the list of office bearers22.09.2022:
NEWLY ELECTED OFFICE BEARERS OF AIBSNLREA, PUNE BRANCH MEET PGMT, PUNE, BSNL:
The newly elected Office-Bearers of AIBSNLREA, Pune Branch (Maharashtra State) along with the outgoing Branch Secretary met Shri Anil N Dhanorkar, PGMT, Pune, BSNL on 21.09.2022 in his Office. After getting themselves introduced, they raised the issue of non-reimbursement of long pending medical claims and Fixed Medical Allowance of Rs. 1000/- under BSNLMRS. The PGMT gave them a patient hearing and assured to look into their grievances. View the photo19.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA. AKOLA BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLD GB MEETING:
Akola Branch of Maharashtra State held its General Body meeting on 15th September 2022 at Conference Hall, O/O GM Telecom, BSNL Akola. Shri V.B. Deshmukh, Vice President, AIBSNLREA Akola presided over the meeting. 14 members were present in the meeting. Shri A.G. Nema, Branch Secretary welcomed all the members present in the meeting. Condolences were conveyed to the departed members viz Shri Dr. S.M. Harale, S.V. Iratkar, B.C. Reghiwale, T.D. Rajpoot, P.G. Paratmandali, Hade (Amravati) and V.P. Naphade (Mumbai). Discussions were held on the latest issues like medical bill payments, pay revision case, migration to Sampann scheme, option for CGHS etc. It was informed that 3rd AIC is proposed to be held at Kolkata on 7th and 8th October 2022. Two members viz Shri P.Y. Deshpande and Shri S.W. Marathe showed their willingness to attend AIC. However, after rail/air reservations, it will be finally conveyed to CHQ. The meeting was adjourned with vote of thanks by Branch Secretary.19.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE SECRETRY DOT ON SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES OF THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019 DURING CURRENCY OF PENALTY – REQUEST FOR EARLY ISSUE OF CLARIFICATION SOUGHT FOR BY CCA TAMILNADU:
Since DoT is reported to have not issued the clarification on the subject even after lapse of 2 years, AIBSNLREA has again taken up the issue with the Secretary, DoT to cause early issue of clarification sought for by CCA Tamilnadu. View the letter17.09.2022:
DOT AIMS TO ACHIEVE ZERO PENDENCY OF PENSION CASES FOR A PERIOD BEYOND ONE MONTH:
BSNL has circulated a letter from DoT to CGCA, all Pr CCA/CCAs, BSNL and MTNL requiring to take such activities/drive in mission mode to achieve resultant ZERO PENDENCY for pension cases for beyond one month and to review the activities on monthly basis and report to DOT HQ. On its part BSNL has listed the steps to be taken to achieve Zero Pendency. View the BSNL and DoT letters17.09.2022:
PUNE BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HOLD GENERAL BODY MEETING:
Pune Branch (Maharashtra State) held its General Body meeting on 16.09.2022. Fifty-eight (58) members of the Branch, braving against heavy downpour, attended the meeting. They took active part in the discussions related to both organisational and welfare activities. A few new members were also enrolled during the meeting. The old body was dissolved and a new set of office-bearers with S/Shri Dr S K Ramamurthy as President, S C Patil as Branch Secretary and N R Jagtap as Branch Finance Secretary was elected. View the list of office bearers16.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CMD BSNL ON INTIMATION TO THE BSNL RETIRED EMPLOYEES OVER SMS MESSAGES TO THEIR REGISTERED MOBILE NUMBER AND/OR E-MAIL ID AT THE TIME OF CREDITING SOME AMOUNT PERTAINING TO THEIR MEDICAL CLAIMS/OTHER PAYMENTS BY NEFT IN THEIR S/B ACCOUNTS BY BSNL:
AIBSNLREA has written to CMD BSNL requesting him to ensure simultaneous issue of SMS to the concerned retirees giving all the required details like the payment has been made against which medical bill or others, and also the amount of TDS if any which has been recovered, whenever the ERP Unit credits any amount to the S.B Account of the concerned retirees by NEFT. View the letter14.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON ATTAINING THE AGE OF 65 YEARS, 70 YEARS AND 75 YEARS:
Since the Department of Expenditure has replied that "As per the comments of E.V section, the grievance pertains to DoPPW. It is therefore requested that the grievance may directly with DoPPW for timely resolution of the same", AIBSNLREA has now taken up the matter with Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW, attaching the response from DoE. View the letter13.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DOT, REQUESTING TO ISSUE ORDERS RESTRAINING THE CCAS NOT TO GO BACK TO A PERIOD EARLIER THAN 24 MONTHS PRECEDING THE DATE OF RETIREMENT FOR PASSING OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO PAY FIXATION MATTERS BY REITERATING THE PROVISION IN RULE 7.3.2 - ROLE OF PAY AND ACCOUNTS OFFICER IN CHAPTER 7 OF THE CIVIL ACCOUNTS MANUAL FOR THE HOD AND PAY AND ACCOUNTS OFFICER ETC:
AIBSNLREA has again taken up the issue with the Secretary, (Telecom), DoT, requesting him to intervene in the matter so that the Controller General of Communication Accounts, DoT or any other Authority in Department of Telecommunications takes note of the matter and issue an Office Order conveying that the Accounts Officers in Pr CCA/CCA Offices must adhere to the a provision in Rule 7.3.2 - Role of Pay and Accounts Officer in Chapter 7 of the Civil Accounts Manual for the HOD and Pay and Accounts Officer and thus no Officer should in any case go back to a period earlier than 24 months preceding the date of retirement for raising observations relating to pay fixation etc. View the letter12.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SR.GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO) BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE ON RE-IMBURSEMENT OF CLAIMS FOR THE PAID TELEPHONE BILLS SUBMITTED BY THE RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEES RESIDING IN THE SERVICE AREA OF MTNL DELHI AND MUMBAI AGAINST THE CONCESSIONAL RESIDENTIAL TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS PROVIDED BY IT (MTNL):
AIBSNLREA has taken up the issue with the Sr. General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO, requesting him to cause release of fund with the instructions to all concerned to clear payment of all pending telephone bills of the retired BSNL Employees residing in MTNL service area in Delhi and Mumbai. View the letter12.09.2022:
DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ON THE ISSUE OF ENHANCEMENT OF ADDITIONAL PENSION ON ATTAINING AGE OF 65 YEARS, 70 YEARS AND 75 YEARS:
AIBSNLREA, vide its letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2022/25 dated 18.08.2022, had written to the Secretary (Expenditure) GOI requesting to get the issue resolved at the earliest. Department of Expenditure has replied that "As per the comments of E.V section, the grievance pertains to DoPPW. It is therefore requested that the grievance may directly with DoPPW for timely resolution of the same." View the DOE response11.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (TELECOM) ON ABNORMAL DELAY IN PAYMENT OF CONSEQUENTIAL BENEFITS ON REVISION OF SENIORITY LISTS OF TES GROUP B OFFICERS IN COMPLIANCE OF SUPREME COURT JUDGMENTS DATED 21.01.2015:
AIBSNLREA has again drawn the attention of Secretary (Telecom), DoT that TES Group B Officers promoted earlier by DoT and who are senior to the Officers promoted after the year 2000 by BSNL, have not been extended the benefit as ordered by Hon’ble Supreme Court judgment. This is a clear case of discrimination against the TES Group B Officers promoted by DoT and violation of Hon’ble Supreme Court Orders. AIBSNLREA has requested to ensure that all the TES Group B Officers promoted by DoT, with their seniority fixed as per Rule-206 of P&T Manual Volume-IV, are extended the consequential benefits in terms of said Supreme Court direction without any further delay. View the letter11.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO SECRETARY, DOT, REQUESTING TO RENDER JUSTICE TO THE RETIRED BSNL EXECUTIVES WHO RETIRED BETWEEN JULY 2017 AND APRIL 2018 IN THE MATTER OF GRANT OF BENEFIT OF EXTRA INCREMENT ON THEIR POST BASED PROMOTION UNDER BSNL EXECUTIVE PROMOTION POLICY 2004:
AIBSNLREA points out that it really sounds odd that only a handful of retired BSNL Executives have become the victim of the wrong orders issued by DoT who otherwise are eligible to receive the benefit as per the BSNL Executive Promotion Policy 2004 and law of equality, since only in their cases the benefit was not restored. AIBSNLREA has requested Secretary DoT to intervene in the matter at his level and render justice by ordering restoration of the benefit of one additional increment that was granted as per Rules to a very limited number of affected retired BSNL Executives. View the letter10.09.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA, AURANGABAD BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HELD:
General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Aurangabad Branch (Maharashtra State) was held at Yash Mangal Karyalaya, Aurangabad on 17.07.2022. The meeting started at 11.00 Hrs. In the morning session, organisational matters of the Association were discussed at length. It was unanimously decided by house to dissolve existing body of the Aurangabad Branch and form a new body and accordingly a new Branch Executive Body was unanimously elected. Thereafter the newly elected President occupied the Chair and announced that Shri V. P. Joshi Ex DS will work with newly elected Office-bearers as Advisor. The House also discussed about pension revision, migration to CGHS etc. At the end, the new body made an appeal to all to make efforts to increase the membership of the Association by meeting to all in person. At the conclusion of the meeting, Shri V. P. Joshi gave Vote of Thanks. The meeting concluded with lunch arranged by the Association. View the list of new office bearers09.09.2022:
SENIOR GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE SENDS IMMEDIATE RESPONSE THROUGH E-MAIL TO AIBSNLREA ON ITS LETTER CONVEYING THAT SOME SSAs HAVE NOT CREATED SAP FOR THE VRS-RETIREES AND THAT THESE VRS-RETIREES MIGHT NOT RECEIVE REIMBURSEMENT OF THEIR MEDICAL CLAIMS:
AIBSNLREA, vide its letter No. AIBSNLREA/CHQ/2022/29 dated 07.09.2022, had brought to the notice of Sr. General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO that Alwar SSA of Rajasthan Circle had intimated that funds have been allotted from the Circle for those retirees for whom vendor in SAP has been created. But in case of VRS optees, vendor has to be created in SAP first and then fund will be allotted by Circle Office. Expressing concern on this, the Association requesting him to issue instructions to all the Circles, that no retiree including BSNL VRS retirees should be left out while making payment of medical bills up to 31.3.2022 for any reason including inability to create vendor code. Now, the Senior General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO has immediately replied the same day, on 07.09.2022 itself through e-mail to AIBSNLREA and has also assured to reiterate the instructions. In his mail he has stated: “Dear Sir, I am sure that BSNL circles will do the needful. Nevertheless, the instructions would be reiterated. Thank You” . View the reply email09.09.2022:
AMBALA BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HOLDF GB MEETING:
A general body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held, under the chairmanship of Sh. K. L. Gakhar, on 6th Sept 2022 at Dilli Durbar Restaurant. 27 members participated in the meeting. At the beginning of the meeting, glowing tributes were paid to our two of our departed members Shri Pritam Dass, Retired DGM from Circle Office and Shri G R Bhatia, Retired AGM from Circle office who expired during the intervening period between the last GB meeting and present meeting. Tributes were also paid to Smt. Usha Rani, wife of Sh. J C Gupta, Ex Branch Secretary. A two-minute silence was also observed in the memory of the departed souls. Thereafter, the House welcomed a new Life Member Shri Raj Pal Singh, Retired SE Civil who joined our association, thus taking the branch membership to 96. Shri S K Aggarwal Branch Secretaryy briefed the members on the issues of pending medical bills of BSNL pensioners which are pending since 2019. It was informed that now funds have been allotted to the circles by BSNL HQ and pending bills are now likely to be cleared shortly. The members were also briefed on the pension revision issue which is claimed to have been sent by DOT to DOE for delinking of pension revision from pay revision of working employees. It was cleared that different pensioners associations are beating about the bush and taking credits for pension revision for which no details are available with anybody for the present. Any comments about pension revision can be given only after some details are known and furnished by DOT. For the ensuing All India Conference being held at Kolkata on 7th and 8th January 2023, members were briefed about the Conference and it was informed that as per our strength, Branch we can send 5 delegates for the Conference. Four members have volunteered to attend the All India Conference.07.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SR. GENERAL MANAGER (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO ON APPREHENSION IN THE MINDS OF BSNL VRS RETIREEES REGARDING MEDICAL BILL PAYMENT:
It has been brought to our notice from Alwar SSA of Rajasthan Circle that funds have been allotted from the Circle for those retirees for whom vendor in SAP has been created. But in case of VRS optees, vendor has to be created in SAP first and then fund will be allotted by Circle Office. This has created a lot of concern among the VRS retirees. AIBSNLREA has taken up the matter with Sr.General Manager (CA/ERP-FICO), BSNL CO requesting him to issue instructions to all the Circles, that no retiree including BSNL VRS retirees should be left out while making payment of medical bills up to 31.3.2022 for any reason including inability to create vendor code. View the letter06.09.2022:
E-JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE:
September 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.01.09.2022:
AIBSNLREA MUMBAI BRANCH HAS A MEETING WITH CCA MUMBAI:
Shri S P Varma Secretary, AIBSNLREA Mumbai Branch met CCA Mumbai and Goa along with Shri B S Yadav on 25th August 2022. Com B. S. Yadav and discussed issues related to migration to SAMPANN. They pointed out that when all the information is furnished by the banks, asking for the information from the pensioners is felt as harassment. CCA Mumbai informed that banks are sending information to HQ New Delhi then it is forwarded to all CCAs and the CCAs carry out the work based on it. In case of any doubts, CCAs are calling particular member to clear doubts. [View Maharashtra Section of State News Page for full report]31.08.2022:
NOTIFICATION FOR HOLDING OF 3RD ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA AT KOLKATA ISSUED:
AIBSNLREA CHQ has issued Notice for holding of the 3rd All India Conference at Kolkata, West Bengal on 7th and 8th January 2023. Detailed Circular has been issued separately. State/Branch Secretaries are requested to check their email for the Circular. If not received they may contact CHQ. Branches are requested to start preparations immediately. View the AIC Notice30.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA CHANDIGARH BRANCH BIMONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING HELD:
A bimonthly General meeting of AIBSNLREA Chandigarh Branch was conducted at Hotel PEARL in Industrial Area-2 CHANDIGARH on 29-08-2022. The Branch Secretary welcomed and thanked the members for sparing their valuable time. Shri M.D. BHASIN President of the Branch addressed the house and spoke on efforts taken by CHQ and aggressively fighting for release of Medical Claims of the members. He appreciated the efforts of CHQ for arreares of 78.2% fitment benefit from 1.1.2007 through court with the next date of court case being 14th of September. The President also discussed the issue of CGHS and and the house wanted simplified procedures in switching over to CGHS. Due to crowd in CGHS dispensary the demand for opening of more dispensaries was also discussed. The President said the demand is being pursued. He spoke on enhancement of fixed medical allowance from 1000 to 3000, this case was too taken by CHQ. Shri Vinesh Bhatia who retired under VRS scheme joined AIBSNLREA Chandigarh Branch as a life member. Snacks and tea were served and sweets were distributed by Branch Secretary Shri M.K Kalra in view of the birthday of his son. The meeting ended with a happy note.30.08.2022:
BSNL DECIDES TO DISBURSE MEDICAL BILLS OF RETIRED EMPLOYEES REGULARLY ALONG WITH SALARY OF WORKING EMPLOYEES ON MONTHLY BASIS:
In response to repeated representations from AIBSNLREA, DoT had a fortnight back replied that "Due to cash inflow shortage the pending bills of Medical of retirees could not be released. However continued interaction with CBB section is being made for the funds. Depending upon future cash inflow suitable action to clear the payment will be taken in coming months of financial year." View the DoT reply Now BSNL vide its letter No.BSNLCO-CA/25/4/2021-CA-ERP-FICO/ dated 30.08.2022 has communicated to the circles that the Corporate CBB section has allotted funds to the circles for making payment of medical bills upto 31.03.2022 to retired employees. The letter further says that "Going forward, the Circles should post the parked Medical bills of retired employees and deduct TDS, as applicable and these will be disbursed along with salary of working employees on monthly basis." Branch Secretaries should monitor payment and report to CHQ in due course, both about payments made and about left out claims, giving details. View the BSNL letter29.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CONTROLLER GENERAL COMMUNICATION ACCOUNTS ON NON-SERIOUS APPROACH BY MOST OF THE CCAs TO INITIATE/COMPLETE THE ASSIGNED TASK OF ISSUE OF IDENTITY CARD TO THE PENSIONERS:
AIBSNLREA had been requesting all authorities in DoT and BSNL to take appropriate action on issue of Pensioner Identity Card at the earliest and therefore it is a matter of satisfaction now that CCAs have been instructed by DoT ot issue Pensioner Identity card. AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of CGCA New Delhi to the fact that the issue has not been taken seriously by a few CCAs who have failed to even issue a cirular on the matter, while some others issue the ID card selectively some SSAs, leaving out other SSAs. Mistakes also galore in the details printed. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested CGCA to look into the matter and advise all PCCAs/CCAs to complete the action within a targetted date to be fixed by the CGCA office. View the letter27.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA CHANDIGARH BRANCH TO HOLD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Chandigarh branch will be held on 29.08.2022 at 2.30 PM at Hotel PEARL, 25/2, I/A Phase - 2, Chandigarh. Issues pertaining to BSNL Pensioners including those related to CGHS, General welfare of the pensioners and important developments will be discussed in the meeting. All are requested to attend in time.24.08.2022:
CCA MAHARASHTRA&GOA INFORMS AIBSNLREA THAT RE-FIXATION OF PENSION OF SHRI V GANAPATHIRAMAN RETD DGM IS UNDER PROCESS:
AIBSNLREA had taken up the issue of delay in re-fixation of pension of Shri V Ganapathiraman, Retd DGM in order to remove the anomaly in pension of absorbed BSNL employees who retired within the period of 10 months from 01.10.2000. After a few exchange of communications, CCA Maharashtra&Goa has informed us that the case is presently under process and pension will be refixed in due course. View the CCA MH&GOA letter23.08.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL APPROACH BY AYURVEDA IN COVID-19 PANDEMIC':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Non-pharmacological approach by Ayurveda in COVID-19 Pandemic’ at 4 PM on 23.08.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.22.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR, CGHS, NEW DELHI REQUESTING HIM EARLY APPROVAL FOR UNCEMENTED THR WITH MOP IN RESPECT OF SMT SUBASINI B DEVTA :
AIBSNLREA has written to the Director, CGHS, CGHS Directorate, New Delhi drawing his attention to the Addl. Director, CGHS, Ahmedabad letter, forwarding an application from Shri Benimadhab B Devta, BSNL Pensioner, along with relevant documents, requesting approval for Implant cost of UNCEMENTED TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT + PLATING in respect of his wife Smt. Subasini B Devta, which is still pending approval from his office. AIBSNLREA has requested him to look into the case urgently and cause approval of the procedure immediately thereby providing relief to the beneficiary from pain and mental depression. View the letter21.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON ENHANCEMENT OF FIXED MEDICAL ALLOWANCE (FMA) FROM RS.1000 TO RS.3000 PER MONTH:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW, drawing his attention to the Minutes of 32nd meeting of SCOVA wherein it has been recorded that “JS (Pension), DoPPW informed that a proposal to increase the amount of Fixed Medical Allowance is under consideration. Based on the data received from the concerned Departments, financial implications on the proposal are being worked out and a reference will be made to Department of Expenditure shortly” and that action was required to be taken by DoP&PW. Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW has been requested to ensure early resolution of the issue. View the letter20.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON HEALTH INSURANCE SCHEME FOR PENSIONERS INCLUDING THOSE RESIDING IN NON-CGHS AREA – SUDDEN DISAPPEARANCE OF THIS ITEM FROM AGENDA OF PENDING CASES OF SCOVA - REQUEST FOR RE-INCLUSION AND PURSUAL TILL FINAL RESOLUTION:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW, pointing out that quite surprisingly the issue of Health Insurance Scheme for pensioners does not find a place in the list of agenda items remaining unresolved, in the Minutes of 32nd meeting of SCOVA, as if the issue has been resolved. The Action Taken Report of the decisions taken in 31st meeting of SCOVA said to have been sent to the Pensioners’ Associations, is not available in any public domain, including the official website of DoP&PW/SCOVA. It is therefore not known how the issue of Health insurance Scheme for pensioners including those residing in non-CGHS areas has been resolved, also in the absence of any follow up action order in this regard. We would only like to assume that the issue has been taken off the agenda by mistake. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested the Secretary (Pension) requesting him to get the item re-included in the agenda for the next SCOVA meeting and to ensure early resolution of the matter once for all. View the letter19.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (EXPENDITURE) GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ON ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON ATTAINING THE AGE OF 65 YEARS, 70 YEARS AND 75 YEARS:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Expenditure) GOI, drawing his attention to the Minutes of 32nd meeting of SCOVA wherein it has been stated that "“On the issue of Enhancement of Additional Pension on attaining age of 65 years, 70 years and 75 years, JS (Pension), DOPPW has informed that the proposal is under consideration in consultation with DoE and DOEA on the aspects of funds availability in the Budget” and requesting him to get the issue resolved at the earliest. View the letter17.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS ON REVISION OF PAY SCALES OF BSNL EMPLOYEES:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Minister of Communications requesting him to re-examine the matter in the light of Considerable reduction of staff-strength through VRS in the year 2019, justification to withdraw Unjust decision for calculation of pension contribution on ‘actual pay’ under FR-116 for the absorbed employees, suggesting implementation of revised pay scales, fitment benefit, increment and Dearness allowance with temporary capping on other allowance for the time being, Relaxation of ‘affordability clause’ of DPE O.M No.W-02/0028/2017-DPE(WC)-GL-XIII/17 dated 03.08.2017 as BSNL has to meet the social obligation of the Government of India to provide services at affordable rates to the customers and thus cannot aim at profit and pointing out the Glaring discrimination between BSNL employees and those on deputation in the matter of revision of pay. View the letter12.08.2022:
RESPONSE FROM DOT TO AIBSNREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY, DOT, REQUESTING TO DIRECT BSNL TO CLEAR ALL PENDING MEDICAL BILLS:
AIBSNLREA had represented to the Secretary, DoT regarding non-settlement of medical claims of BSNL Pensioners since 2018-19, stating that though bills pertaining to 2018-19 and 2019-20 have now been partially paid, claims for remaining years are not yet settled and had requested that BSNL may be directed to make payment of all pending claims both for with voucher/without voucher and indoor treatment. DoT has now replied to the letter that "Due to cash inflow shortage the pending bills of Medical of retirees could not be released. However continued interaction with CBB section is being made for the funds. Depending upon future cash inflow suitable action to clear the payment will be taken in coming months of financial year." View the DOT reply10.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS ON BSNL REVIVAL PACKAGE 2022 – THE MUCH NEEDED BUT MISSING CLAUSE IN THE CABINET DECISIONS:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Minister of Communications conveying that that the Government is again and again missing an important step, without which all efforts to revive BSNL are bound to fail. The letter refers to IIM Ahmedabad recommendation that "The Board of Directors should also include professional who have had experience of running large businesses. The board should not have only civil servants and academicians as Independent Directors who have not been associated with running of business. Academicians for top-ranked Indian Management institutes or foreign institutes may be offered for board positions". It had specifically recommended that "The top leadership of BSNL should be evaluated by DoT and should be made accountable for the profits and health of the organisation. We even suggest that the top leader (CMD) should be a professional who has had experience of running business rather than a government servant who is appointed on a fixed-tenure by the government." The letter further says that unless those in BSNL top Management and the policy makers in the DoT are made accountable for their action, mere providing funds by the Government is not going to help BSNL in any way. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested to “set up an independent on-going review mechanism, with very low representation from the Government, for assessing the efficacy of BSNL Board decisions”, as has been suggested by the IIM Ahmedabad. View the letter08.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CONTROLLER GENERAL OF COMMUNICATION ACCOUNTS ON MIGRATION OF PRE-ROLLOUT PENSIONERS TO SAMPANN – ERRONEOUS DEDUCTION OF TDS THROUGH SAMPANN EVEN AFTER SUBMISSION OF PROOF OF INVESTMENT EARLIER TO BANKS:
It has been brought to our notice that the pensioners of Maharashtra Circle, who were migrated from Bank of Baroda to SAMPANN last month, are in a rude shock as TDS has been deducted from their pension despite their investment in tax saving deposits and due intimation given to the banks earlier. AIBSNLREA has since written to the CGCA New Delhi, mentioning that without cautioning the migrated pensioners and also without following the requirement of explaining to them the process of submitting the declaration online and further even before the deadline of 9th October is over, recovery of TDS has been made in a very casual manner, putting the pensioners in unwanted trouble. AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA New Delhi to ensure that TDS recovery is not made without following the laid down processes mentioned above and that no pensioner is put into problem on this count. View the letter07.08.2022:
PCCA MUMBAI RESPONDS TO OUR LETTER ON DELAY IN RE-FIXATION OF PENSION OF SHRI V GANAPATHIRAMAN RETD DGM :
PCCA Mumbai Circle has responded to AIBSNLREA letter, requesting more details to sort out the issue. View the PCCA Mumbai response07.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) ON GRANT OF ONE NOTIONAL INCREMENT FOR PENSIONARY BENEFITS TO THOSE EMPLOYEES WHO HAD RETIRED ONE DAY BEFORE THEIR ANNUAL INCREMENT BECAME DUE:
AIBSNLREA has pointed out that a large number of applications are being filed in various CAT Benches by the affected pensioners praying for extension of the benefit. Already, at least three High courts have ruled in favour of the pensioners on the issue and the Supreme Court has once dismissed a SLP. Except that the issue will be further delayed, we believe that finally the law will prevail. It will be a good gesture on behalf of the UOI to voluntarily order extension of the benefit IN REM to all similarly placed pensioners, without waiting for the disposal of the SLP and has requested Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW to have the matter re-examined with compassion and order extension of the benefit of notional increment for pensionary benefits to all the similarly place pensioners. View the letter06.08.2022:
E-JOURNAL AUGUST 2022 ISSUE:
August 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.04.08.2022:
AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
A General Body meeting of Kurukshetra branch was held on 3.08.2022 at 11.00 AM in Haryana Tourism Neelkanthi Yatri Nivas under the chairmanship of Shri S K Verma. Thirty one members were present including two new Life members enrolled in the meeting. The Branch Secretary greeted the gathering and welcomed the new Life Members. Shri D S Sandhu OS North briefed the members about the status of cases taken up at the CHQ level viz migration to SAMPANN, revival of BSNL, restoration of concession to Sr citizens in trains, Improvement in functioning of CGHS, supply of Form16/16A by email, revision of IDA wef 01.07.2022 , efforts to get early payment of pending medical reimbursement bills of BSNL pensioners, status of court case and many more. [View Haryana section of State News page for full report].03.08.2022:
RAILWAY BOARD RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO THE PRIME MINISTER REQUESTING RESTORATION OF SENIOR CITIZEN CONCESSION IN TRAINS:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter addressed to the Prime Minister of India requesting restoration of senior citizen concession in trains, the Railway Board has responded stating that "Covid-19 Pandemic has adversely affected the financial condition of Railways. In spite of this challenge, Indian Railways has continued concession in fare to four categories of persons with disability, eleven categories of Patients and Students. However, cost of granting concessions weighs heavily on Railways, hence scope of extending concessions to all categories of passengers including Senior Citizens is not desirable." View the response of Railway Board02.08.2022:
UJJAIN BRANCH (MP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA HOLDS A GB MEETING:
AIBSNLREA, Ujjain Branch of Madhya Pradesh State held a General Body meeting on 26.07.2022 at Surana Palace Hotel. The members first observed two minutes silence in memory of their colleague-members who expired during the Covid-19 period. After discussions on various issues, election of new Office-Bearers of the Branch for next term was taken up. The body was elected unanimously. View the list of office bearers28.07.2022:
AIBSNLREA PRAGYARAJ (FORMERLY ALLAHABAD) BRANCH HELD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:
An annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Prayagraj branch was held on 25/07/2022 in the o/o GMTD Allahabad building premises under the presidentship of Shri R S Gupta to elect new office bearers for the next session. Shri R S Arora State Secretary also attended the meeting as an observer. Shri Arora addressed the house and briefed the members about burning topics. He also demonstrated Yoga and discussed about ADHYATMA CHARCHA. Newly elected body decided to host All India Conference in Prayagraj subject to availability of suitable hotel. It was decided to elect A/I delegates later on. View the list of office bearers27.07.2022:
CABINET APPROVES Rs.1.64 LAKH CRORE REVIVAL PACKAGE FOR BSNL
The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs 1.64-lakh crore revival package for the government-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), said Ashwini Vaishnaw, the minister for telecom, on July 27. The package will have three main elements - it will aim at improving the quality of BSNL services, will be used to de-stress the balance sheet, and will expand the company's fiber reach by merging Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL) with it. View the News item27.07.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA REQUESTING RESTORATION OF SENIOR CITIZEN CONCESSION IN TRAINS:
Drawing attention of the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India that "Just a year after taking over as Prime Minister of India, you had addressed the Elders of India rightly stating that “Many of you belong to that privileged generation which has had the honour of contributing to both India’s independence, as well as its consequent nation building. We are what we are today because of you. And for this we are all deeply proud and eternally indebted to you. Thus, it is the nation’s responsibility to look after you. This is but a mere continuation of India’s ethos of ‘respect for elders’ – our Bharatiyata”, AIBSNLREA has conveyed its disappointment over withdrawal of the long existing concession for senior citizens in trains and has requested him to intervene and advise the Indian Railways to review its decision of withdrawing the concession and to order restoration of the senior citizen concession in trains henceforth. View the letter26.07.2022:
CGCA ISSUES GUIDELINES FOR POST MIGRATION ACTIVITIES:
To ensure smooth transition of pensioners drawing pension from CPPCs of Banks to SAMPANN, Controller General of Communication Accounts has issued step by step guidelines to all CCAs and has asked the CCA offices to take up outreach initiatives in the form of online or offline camps, reaching out to Pensioners Associations etc. View the CGCA letter25.07.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'PERSISTENT HEADACHES - WHAT IT COULD MEAN AND NEED FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Persistent Headaches - What it could mean and need for early diagnosis’ at 4 PM on 26.07.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.24.07.2022:
GOVERNMENT IS NOT CONSIDERING EXTENDING THE LAST DATE FOR FILING INCOME TAX RETURN:
According to Media reports, Revenue Secretary said on Friday that the government is not considering extending the last date for filing income tax returns as it expects most returns to come in by the due date of July 31. He has further said that "the feedback being received from taxpayers is that the return form has become very easy to file and that refunds are also being made in a very quick time. On some complaining about difficulty in filing returns, he said 2.3 crore people have already filed returns without any complaints." As the Government does not acknowledge the difficulties and appears to be not considering extending the last date, we request all the members who have not yet filed their ITR, to file the same in the next few days despite the difficulties experienced in getting Form 16 from banks.22.07.2022:
CGHS DIRECTORATE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER SUGGESTING IMPROVEMENTS IN FUNCTIONING OF CGHS:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter suggesting improvements in functioning of CGHS, CGHS Direcorate has acknowledged our valid suggestions in different aspects of health delivery system of CGHS and has stated that "The point no. 1 to 5 as policy matters are under the jurisdiction of higher authorities of Ministry of Health & FW which will be intimated to the notice of the competent authorities for necessary action .The point No.6 regards to incidences not getting credit facility to the pensioners, this office have issued memo recently and reiterated the CGHS guidelines for credit facility to all empaneled hospitals under CGHS Hyderabad and in case of any specific complaints against HCO ,this office shall initiate necessary action to rectify the issue. The pendency of bill payment is getting reduced significantly now because of the new bill clearing agency ie National Health Authority clearing the bills in fast & time bound manner and working towards NIL pendency goal in near future." View the CGHS Directorate response18.07.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW REQUESTING ISSUE OF INSTRUCTIONS FOR MANDATORY SUPPLY OF FORM 16/16A BY PENSION DISBURSING BANKS THROUGH REGISTERED EMAIL:
Drawing attention to the difficulties faced aged pensioners who are being forced to visit bank branches for collecting the Form 16/16A, AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW requesting him to issue instructions to all Banks to invariably mail Form 16, Form 16A in the registered email of the Pensioners within the due date as fixed by the Income Tax Department. View the letter17.07.2022:
:
BSNL has created an extremely unnecessary trouble for the pensioners who switched over from BSNL MRS to CGHS, paid the one-time contribution and got it reimbursed by BSNL. BSNL issued a clarification in September 2021 that on a conservative basis tax may be deducted at source under the head salary for the amount reimbursed to BSNL absorbed retired employees on account of CGHS subscription. BSNL ignored our contention that any reimbursement cannot be treated as income and therefore not subject to income tax. We even enclosed a copy of the booklet issued in the name “Tax payers information – Series 36 – VALUATION OF PERQUISITES” by the Income Tax Department and available in their website at https://www.incometaxindia.gov.in/Booklets%20%20Pamphlets/1-Valuation-of-perquisites-05-CRC.pdf . In page 23, under Para 4.5 b) it has been clearly stated that“Medical insurance premium paid or reimbursed by the employer is not chargeable to tax.”
BSNL responded to our letters stating that the matter can be revisited once decision is taken. But without providing an opportunity for us to revisit the matter, BSNL has shown the amount as "Taxable Income' in Form 16, which is reflected in Income Tax Form 26AS. The concerned pensioners are in a fix now as the last date for filing ITR is fast approaching. We have been advising a few who contacted us that the pre-filled data can be modified leaving out the CGHS reimbursement amount as income and proceed to file the return.Based on the inputs we received from Shri R T Shah, Joint Secretary, CHQ, we have charted this GUIDANCE, showing step by step, the procedure to remove the amount from Taxable Income in the Annual Information Statement (AIS) of Income Tax, by submitting Feedback, before filing tax return. Once the procedure is completed it will reflect in the pre-filled data while filing ITR. View the GUIDANCE
16.07.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF ASSURANCE TO EXTEND THE BENEFIT OF OPTION TO RETAIN CDA PAY SCALE TILL THEIR PROMOTION OR RETIREMENT WHICHEVER IS EARLIER OFFERED IN THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE FOR ABSORPTION TO THE GROUP C & D EMPLOYEES BY THE DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS:
After the absorption process was over, the employees who opted for retaining CDA pay scale till next promotion, got their basic pay fixed from CDA to IDA pay scale in terms of this option. But surprisingly and to the agony of the absorbed employees, CCA Units of Department of Telecommunication started disallowing the benefit to the absorbed BSNL Employees at the time of fixation of their pension on their retirement. However, Department of Telecommunication subsequently restored the benefit only to the retired absorbed Group “B” level Officers vide its No. 2-49(3)/2009-PAT dated 4.11.2010 following a Court Order. But DOT did not allow the said benefit to the retired Group “C” and “D” Employees who also took absorption in BSNL and opted for the same benefit. AIBSNLREA has again taken up the matter, now with Secretary (pension) DoP&PW requesting his intervention. View the letter13.07.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH HELD :
General body meeting of Palakkad Branch was held on 12.07.2022 at Top In Town Auditorium, Palakkad. The meeting started at 11 AM with silent prayer. The Secretary Mr.P.Prabhakaran welcomed the gathering. Despite heavy rain and adverse climatic conditions, 48 members attended the meeting including those from far off places of the district. There were elaborate discussions on various problems being faced by BSNL pensioners including pension revision, non payment of medical claims in time, migration to CGHS etc. Secretary and President Mr.Ramanathan, Retd DGM(F) spoke in length to explain the present status of these cases. The meeting was concluded at 13.30 PM after vote of thanks by Mr. A.L. Viswanathan,Retd DGM and serving of lunch.11.07.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'ADDRESSING PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS AND CARE OF A TEENAGER':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Addressing psychological needs and care of a teenager’ at 4 PM on 12.07.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.11.07.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CHAIRMAN CBDT REQUESTING EXTENSION OF LAST DATE FOR SUBMISSION OF IT RETURN:
AIBSNLREA has writtent to the Chairman CBDT requesting that the last date for filing IT returns be extended to 31st August 2022, keeping in mind the non-receipt/delayed receipt of Form 16/16A and the time required to prepare and submit the returns after receipt of Form 16/16A. View the letter10.07.2022:
PRAYAGRAJ BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ITS GB MEETING ON 25.07.2022:
Prayagraj Branch (UP State) is to hold its General Body Meeting on 25.07.2022 at 14.00 hours in the GM TD Prayagraj Premises to elect new Branch Office-Bearers and conduct other businesses. All the members of the Branch and other retired BSNL Executives, desirous to join the Association, are requested to attend the meeting.07.07.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.07.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 190.8% w.e.f 01.07.2022 in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.2007. View the DPE OM07.07.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.07.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 391% w.e.f 01.07.2022, in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.1997. View the DPE OM07.07.2022:
DOT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 14TH JUNE 2022 REQUESTING TO ENSURE SMOOTH MIGRATION TO SAMPANN OF BSNL PENSIONERS WHO ARE NOW DRAWING PENSION THROUGH BANKS:
Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 14.06.2022 requesting Secretary DoT to ensure that the migration of pre-SAMPANN rollout BSNL pensioners is smooth and trouble-free and that no pensioner is harassed in the name of migration, by issuing suitable instructions to all CCAs, DoT has replied that "As reported by field unit, due care is being taken into consideration for the migration process of pensioners to SAMPANN. View the DoT response06.07.2022:
E-JOURNAL JULY 2022 ISSUE:
July 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.03.07.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHANDIGARH HELD:
A GB meeting of AIBSNLREA Chandigarh Branch was conducted on 29th May-2022 at Hotel Pearl I-AII Chandigarh at 2:30 PM. The meeting was presided over by Shri M D Bhasin President and advisor Shri Lokesh Chopra graced the occasion. Two minutes silence was observed on passing away of wife of Sh. Ashok Soni our life member & Sh. Joginder Singh. The issues taken up during meeting were : Status of court case, payment of pending medical bills, extension of empaneled hospitals, CGHS changeover from BSNL, opening of more CGHS dispensaries, CGHS web seminars etc. Income Tax slabs and other benefits for senior citizens were also discussed. Finally the meeting concluded over serving of tea and snacks. The meeting was hosted by Shri K R Choudhary, life member on account of his becoming Grandfather.01.07.2022:
EAST GODAVARI BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA HELD ITS GB MEETING:
AIBSNLREA East Godavari Branch held its GB Meeting at Hotel Surya, Rajahmundry on 25.06.2022 under the presidentship of Sri GV Rama Krishna, President of the Branch. He welcomed all the 140 members attending the meeting. Present membership strength of the Branch has risen to 320. During the period, ninety-seven new members were added. 22 members unfortunately passed away during the period 06.02.2020 to 25.06.2022 including our CHQ member Shri CH Gandhi. [View Andhra Pradesh Section of State News page to read the full report]30.06.2022:
IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.07.2022:
According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for the months March 2022, April and May 2022, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.07.2022 is 190.8%% [increase by 5.5%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and 391%% [increase by 9.3%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.29.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR GENERAL CGHS SUGGESTING IMPROVEMENTS IN FUNCTIONING OF CGHS:
AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of DG CGHS towards the fact that BSNL pensioners who have switched over to CGHS have a lot of expectations from CGHS. Although CGHS has shown improvement through years, many inadequacies still exist in providing the desired facilities to the beneficiaries. Based on inputs from members, who have become CGHS beneficiaries, AIBSNLREA has submitted suggestions for improvement in the functioning of CGHS so that the senior citizens/pensioners get easy and proper medical care in the fag end of their lives. View the letter27.06.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'MUSCULO-SKELETAL DISORDERS AND ROLE OF YOGA':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Musculo-skeletal disorders and Role of Yoga’ at 4 PM on 28.06.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.24.06.2022:
CCA KARNATAKA IN THE PROCESS OF SETTLEMENT OF FINAL SUPERANNUATION PENSION, RELEASE OF DCRG AND GRANT OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION – CASES OF SHRI S V ROJED, RETD SDE, QUALITY ASSURANCE CIRCLE (HR NO. 197503181) AND SHRI G P BIRADAR, RETD AGM, BANGALORE TELECOM DISTRICT:
AIBSNLREA had drawn the attention of Secretary, DoT to the above issue, in which CCA Karnataka Circle was seeking ‘Clear’/’final’ vigilance clearance in spite of BSNL Corporate Office issuing the vigilance clearance and final retirement order, resulting in undue delay in settlement of regular pension for both the affected pensioners. DoT had closed the case on 23.06.2022 with the remarks that CCA, KTK, Bangalore has sought guidance from DOT for release of pensionary benefits in such cases where appeal against the acquittal is pending. On receipt of clarification from DOT, the pensionary benefits will be released. Meanwhile a over-the-phone communication from CCA Karnataka confirms that clarification has been received and the cases are under process. View the disposal22.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION), DoP&PW REQUESTING SUITABLE DIRECTIONS TO BSNL TO PAY ALL THE PENDING MEDICAL CLAIMS OF BSNL PENSIONERS:
In response to our earlier representation on the issue, DoT had replied that "it is learnt from the concerned cell that payment shall be done shortly." Since then BSNL has made some payments for the year 2018-19 and a few payments for the year 2019-20. AIBSNLREA has now again taken up the matter with Secretary (Pension), requesting him that suitable directions be issued to BSNL to make payment for all the pending medical claims, both indoor and outdoor, in a time bound manner in order to ease the burden on the BSNL pensioners. BSNL may also be directed to specify a timeline for making the payments. View the letter21.06.2022:
REIMBURSEMENT OF ONE-TIME PAYMENT OF CGHS SUBSCRIPTION WITHIN ONE MONTH FOR THOSE WHO OPT TO SWITCH OVER BY 31st JULY 2022:
BSNL CO has conveyed its decision that those retirees/VRS optees who have not opted for CGHS so far, if they switch over to CGHS by 31st July, 2022, reimbursement of one-time payment of their CGHS subscription will be paid within one month of submission of their claim with BSNL. View the BSNL letter21.06.2022:
BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE WRITES TO CGMs REQUESTING THEM TO COORDINATE WITH SALES TEAM/REPRESENTATIVES OF HOSPITALS FOR EMPANELMENT OF MAXIMUM NUMBER OF HOSPITALS UNDER BSNL MRS:
BSNL CO has requested the CGMs of all Circles/Units to coordinate with the Sales Team/representatives of the hospitals in the BA/SSA/towns/City for empanelment of maximum number of hospitals on CGHS rates prererably on credit basis and to make special efforts to bring reputed and eminent hospitals in the empanelled list. It further states that the process of invoice processing and payment to hospitals providing credit facility be streamlined to make it a time bound system so that they continue to provide cashless healthcare facility. View the BSNL letter20.06.2022:
REVISION OF PENSION/FAMILY PENSION IN RESPECT OF THE PENSIONERS DRAWING COMPULSORY RETIREMENT PENSION OR COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCE AFTER COMPULSORY RETIREMENT/DISMISSAL/REMOVAL FROM SERVICE:
In addition to the existing instructions on the subject and based on representations from some pensioners and also some court decisions, DoP&PW has reconsidered the matter in consultation with Department of Expenditure and has decided that provisions contained in various orders after 5th CPC, 6th CPC and 7th CPC regarding revision of pension/family pension, would also be applicable for revision of pension/family pension in respect of pensioners who were drawing compulsory retirement pension or compassionate allowance. Pension/family pension of such pensioners will accordingly be revised w.e.f. 1.1.1996, 1.1.2006 and 1.1.2016. View the DoP&PW OM19.06.2022:
GODAVARI BRANCH (AP STATE) OF AIBSNLREA TO HOLD ITS GB MEETING ON 25.06.2022:
East Godavari Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its full day GB Meeting on 25.06.2022 at 5th Floor of Hotel Surya (Near Sub collector office, Gokavaram bus stand) Rajahmundry from 09.30 AM to 16.30 PM. During the Covid pandemic, the Branch unfortunately lost 19 of its members. The members attending the meeting will pay homage to these departed members. The Branch will also felicitate those members along with their spouses who crossed 75 years of age and also those who have crossed 80 years of age. In addition, Report of the Branch Secretary and Finance Secretary will be placed before the House for approval. Election of new Branch Office Bearers will also take place. All members and others are requested to attend the meeting. [For further details, contact: Shri Vara Prasad GSVSS, DS, Mob 9440000293].17.06.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA KOLHAPUR BRANCH HELD:
AIBSNLREA Kolhapur Branch held its Annual General Body meeting in Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall, Kolhapur on 8th May 2022. Meeting was presided over by Sri. L M Godi, and 43 members were present with 7 new members joining the Association.Meeting started at 11 AM as usual with due Prayer. In the meeting President welcomed all the Members and new Two Members Mrs. Khamakar and RP Jadhav Kolhapur. New members were welcomed by President with Flowers, they were introduced to the House.[View Maharashtra Section of State News page to read the full report]
16.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA SEEKS ATTENTION OF PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA TO DISCRIMINATION BY DOT AGAINST BSNL EXECUTIVES WHO RETIRED DURING THE PERIOD FROM JULY 2017 TO APRIL 2018 AND REQUESTS SUITABLE DIRECTION TO DOT TO REMOVE THE BLATANT AND GROSS DISCRIMINATION:
After knocking the doors of DoT several times and the Secretary (Pension), AIBSNLREA has now been compelled to seek attention of Hon'ble Prime Minister to a long pending grievance of a section of the retired BSNL Executives, who retired during the period from July 2017 to April 2018 but agonizingly denied the benefit of fixation of pension by taking into account the extra increment granted on their post-based promotion under BSNL Executive Promotion Policy-2007, while the other Executives who retired earlier to July 2017 and subsequent to April 2018 were allowed the benefit and has requested him to intervene in the matter and render justice to the concerned affected pensioners by directing the Department of Telecommunications to remove the blatant and gross discrimination immediately. View the letter15.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY DOT REQUESTING TO ENSURE SMOOTH MIGRATION TO SAMPANN:
Drawing the attention of Secretary, DoT to the process of phased migration of pre-rollout BSNL Pensioners to SAMPANN/CPMS which has been initiated by all the CCAs nation-wide and is in progress, by calling for KYP (Know Your Pensioner) forms and related documents from the concerned pensioners, different CCAs using different format for the same, AIBSNLREA has requested him to ensure that the migration is smooth and trouble-free and that no pensioner is harassed in the name of migration. View the letter14.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA ERODE BRANCH HELD ITS AGB MEETING:
Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Erode Branch was held on 1.6.2022 in Kohinoor Hotel, Erode. Issues related to BSNL pensioners were discussed in detail. New office bearers were elected unanimously. View the list of office bearers12.06.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'ROLE OF EARLY INITIATION OF BREAST FEEDING, INFANT AND YOUNG CHILD FEEDING AND TAKING CARE OF CHILD NUTRITION AND GROWTH':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Role of early initiation of Breast feeding, infant and young child feeding and taking care of child nutrition and growth’ at 4 PM on 14.06.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.12.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA, GUJARAT STATE BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING TODAY:
Gujarat State Branch of AIBSNLREA is holding its Annual General Body Meeting at 14.30 hours on 12.06.2022. Venue of the meeting is J B Auditorium, Ahmedabad Management Association, Opp Apang Manav Mandal, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad- 380015.06.06.2022:
E-JOURNAL JUNE 2022 ISSUE:
June 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.04.06.2022:
AIBSNLREA TAMILNADU STATE ORGANISATION INAUGURATED:
Inaugural meeting of AIBSNLREA Tamilnadu State organisation was held on 01.06.2022 at Erode. Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President and Shri R.R.Balasubramanian AGS were present in the meeting. The Branch secretaries of Tamilnadu, and a number of active members attended the meeting. The plight of the pensioners, the status of pension revision, non-payment of medical bills/allowances, the day to day issues faced by the pensioners in CGHS Scheme and some issues of the individual pensioners were discussed. The CHQ Office bearers, Branch Secretaries spoke on the occasion. Shri S.Mahalingam Former Circle Secretary of NFTE BSNL felicitated the meeting. After discussions, office bearers of AIBSNLREA Tamillnadu State organisation were elected unanimously. Erode branch had made nice arrangements for successful conduct of the meeting. View the list of office bearers30.05.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA THANJAVUR BA BRANCH HELD:
Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Thanjavur BA Branch was held under the Presidentship of Shri.R.KRISHNARAO, District President on 28.05.2022. Silence was observed in remembrance of two members whom we had lost in their fight against COVID-19. Secretary informed the meeting that 18 new members have joined recently. Twenty one members attended the meeting. The present status of the life of the retired executives, Pension revision, Non payment / Delay in medical bill / FMA payment, Issues pertaining to migration to CGHS were discussed. Members expressed hope that the proposed State level organisation will make a sincere effort in dealing with all issues of the pensioners. Two more new members joined AIBSNLREA on the day of the meeting. New office bearers were elected unanimously. View the list of office bearers26.05.2022:
DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW TO DOT REQUESTING EXPEDITIOUS RESOLUTION OF THE ISSUE OF EXTENDING THE CONSEQUENTIAL BENEFITS TO THE JTOS QUALIFIED IN TES GROUP B QUALIFYING EXAMINATIONS AND WERE PROMOTED TO DE/AGM GRADE DURING THEIR SERVICE IN DOT PRIOR TO 01.10.2000, BASED ON REVISED SENIORITY AS PER THE DIRECTIONS OF HON’BLE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA IN CA NO.4389 OF 2010:
Immediately after receipt of our letter dated 25.05.2022 on the matter, DoP&PW has forwarded our email along with the letter, requesting DoT "to look into the matter and resolve the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time bound manner under intimation to this department and the concerned pensioner about the action taken." View the email26.05.2022:
MINUTES OF 32ND MEETING OF SCOVA:
DoP&PW has circulated the minutes of the 32nd Meeting of SCOVA (Standing Committee Of Voluntary Agencies). The item requesting Payment of DA/DR arrears frozen for 18 months from 1.1.2020 to 30.06.2021 has been closed with the reply from Joint Secretary, DoE that decision to freeze DA and DR was taken in the context of Covid-19 pandemic so as to ease pressure on Government finances. On the issue of Enhancement of Additional Pension on attaining age of 65 years, 70 years and 75 years, JS (Pension), DoPPW has informed that the proposal is under consideration in consultation with DoE and DoEA on the aspects of funds availability in the Budget. He has also informed that the proposal to increase the amount of FMA is under consideration, financial implications are being worked out and a reference will be made to DoE shortly. View the Minutes25.05.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW ON DELAY BY DEPARTMENT OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS IN EXTENDING THE CONSEQUENTIAL BENEFITS TO THE JTOS QUALIFIED IN TES GROUP B QUALIFYING EXAMINATIONS AND WERE PROMOTED TO DE/AGM GRADE DURING THEIR SERVICE IN DOT PRIOR TO 01.10.2000, BASED ON REVISED SENIORITY AS PER THE DIRECTIONS OF HON’BLE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA IN CA NO.4389 OF 2010:
AIBSNLREA has now sought the intervention of Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW, requesting him to advise DoT to conduct review DPC in in respect of the promotion orders issued during the DoT period, i.e., before formation of BSNL on 01.10.2000, at the earliest and without further delay. View the letter25.05.2022:
NON-RELEASE OF THE WITHHELD AMOUNT OF EX-GRATIA, NON-GRANT OF TIME BOUND UPGRADATION FROM E4 TO E5 AND FROM E5 TO E6 AND ALSO RELEASING OF GRATUITY AND CVP IN VIEW OF QUASHING OF CHARGESHEET BY HON'BLE CAT BANGALORE AND ON ATTAINING OF AGE 60 YEARS- CASE OF SHRI B M NYAMATI, RETD CAO, BANGALORE TELECOM DISTRICT:
Shri V P Arya, AGS, AIBSNLREA has been visiting BSNL CO a number of times and pursuing the issue. Now, AGM (Admin-F) has informed us that letter requesting grant of VC has been received from Karnataka Circle and has been sent to CVO for obtaining clearance. We hope the issue will be resolved shortly and Final retirement order will be issued. CHQ will puruse the case till withheld ex-gratia is released and time bound upgradations are granted from the due dates.23.05.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'ARTHRITIS, BACK ACHE AND OTHER JOINT PAINS - ROLE OF GOOD POSTURE, EXERCISE AND PHYSIOTHERAPY':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Arthritis, Backache and other joint pains - Role of good posture, exercise and physiotherapy’ at 4 PM on 24.05.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.22.05.2022:
NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA INAUGURATED AT AGRA:
AIBSNLREA Agra Branch was inaugurated on 20.05.2022 in a meeting held at Metro Hotel, Sanjay Place, Agra under the Presidentship of Shri M S Chauhan. Shri R S Arora, State Secretary was the Chief Guest and apprised the members about various activities being taken up at CHQ and State levels. Other issues of BSNL pensioners were also discussed. Office bearers were elected unanimously. Vote of Thanks was proposed by Dr. A K Dubey, the Secretary of the Branch. View the list of office bearers21.05.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CCA MAHARASHTRA CIRCLE ON DELAY IN RE-FIXATION OF PENSION OF SHRI V GANAPATHIRAMAN RETD DGM:
AIBSNLREA has written to the CCA Maharashtra Circle regrding delay in re-fixation of pension of Shri V Ganapathiraman, Retd DGM, in order to remove the anomaly in pension of absorbed BSNL employees who retired within the period of 10 months from 01.10.2000, pointing out that in spite of the affected pensioner representing to CCA Maharashtra ever since DoT issued instructions on the matter on 07.10.2021, there has been no response. View the letter18.05.2022:
MEETING FOR FORMATION OF STATE BODY OF AIBSNLREA TAMILNADU:
A meeting for formation of AIBSNLREA Tamilnadu State Body will be held on Wednesday the 1st June 2022, at Kohinoor Hotels, Near Telephone Bhawan, Brough Road, Erode. Notification for the meeting has already been issued by the President, CHQ. The meeting will commence sharply at 10 AM. Branch Secretaries are requested to ensure that participants from their branches reach the venue in time.14.05.2022:
REMOVAL OF SIXTY FOUR HEALTH CARE ORGANISATIONS EMPANELLED UNDER CGHS DELHI NCR FROM LIST OF EMPANELLED ORGANISATIONS UNDER CGHS:
Hospital empanelment Cell of DG CGHS has issued orders removing 64 HCOs from the list of empanelled orgqnisations under CGHS Delhi for non-compliance with its directions for onboarding NHA IT platform for uploading the bills pertaining to pensioner CGHS beneficiaries in a paperless environment within the stipulated time. View the order13.05.2022:
NEW BRANCH OF AIBSNLREA TO BE INAUGURATED IN UP STATE:
AIBSNLREA Agra Branch will be inaugurated in a meeting to be held on 20th May 2022 from 11.30 AM at Metro Hotel Sanjay Place, Agra, in the presence of UP State Secretary Shri R S Arora. Shri A K Dubey will act as the co-ordinator. All interested retired BSNL Executives are requested to attend the meeting.11.05.2022:
AGB MEETING OF VARANASAI BRANCH (UP STATE) HELD:
Varanasi Branch of AIBSNLREA held its Annual General Body Meeting on 10.05.2022 at CTO Compound, Varanasi under the presidentship of Shri P M Ansari. State Secretary Shri R S Arora addressed the members. Thereafter, election of new Office Bearers of the Branch was conducted by Shri Benchu Prasad. View the list of new office bearers10.05.2022:
DOPPW RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 12.01.2022 SUGGESTING IMPROVEMENTS IN CPENGRAMS:
AIBSNLREA vide its letter dated 12.01.2022 addressed to the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW had suggested improvements in CPENGRAMS based on experiences of shortcomings and lack of real monitoring of resolution of grievances, giving details of the grievances which were closed with irrelevant, immaterial and senseless responses. DoP&PW after keeping the status 'under process' for more than four months, has now replied that "Suggestions noted". We believe that the suggestions will be implemented in due course. View the DoP&PW response09.05.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'HEALTHY LIFESTYLE - ROLE OF PROPER DIET & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Healthy lifestyle - role of diet & physical activity’ at 4 PM on 10.05.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.07.05.2022:
AIBSNLREA VARANASI BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:
The Annual General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Varanasi branch is to be held on 10.05.2022 in CTO building 3rd floor at 3.00 PM. New office bearers will be elected in the presence of State secretary Shri R S Arora. All Members are requested to attend the meeting without fail.06.05.2022:
E-JOURNAL MAY 2022 ISSUE:
May 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.25.04.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'MENSTRUAL PROBLEMS AND MENOPAUSAL SYMPTOMS IN WOMEN AND ROLE OF UNANI SYSTEM OF MEDICINE':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Menstrual problems and menopausal symptoms in women and role of Unani system of Medicine’ at 4 PM on 26.04.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.20.04.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.04.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 381.7% w.e.f 01.04.2022 in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.1997. View the DPE OM19.04.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY, DoT, ON CCA KARNATAKA SEEKING 'CLEAR'/'FINAL' VIGILANCE CLEARANCE:
Referring to the case of Shri S V Rojed and Shri G P Biradar, AIBSNLREA writes to Secretary, DoT pointing out that "CCA Karnataka Circle has been delaying settlement of their regular pension and other retirement benefits, on the plea that the Vigilance Clearance has been granted with a note about pending of appeal and therefore is conditional. He is seeking ‘Clear’/’final’ vigilance clearance in these cases, ignoring the fact that Vigilance clearance is either ‘GRANTED’ or ‘NOT GRANTED’ and there is no clear or final vigilance clearance. Mere mentioning of pending appeal does not in any way alter the status of vigilance clearance" and requesting him to advise CCA Karnataka Circle to take appropriate measures for immediate release of final pension and other retirement benefits to Shri S V Rojed, Retd SDE Quality Assurance Circle and Shri G P Biradar, Retd AGM BGTD. View the letter17.04.2022:
NON-SETTLEMENT OF FINAL SUPERANNUATION PENSION, RELEASE OF DCRG AND GRANT OF CVP IN RESPECT OF SHRI G P BIRADAR, RETD DE BGTD - CGM KARNATAKA CIRCLE REPLIES TO CCA KARNTAKA CIRCLE:
We had earlier reported that "Referring to our representation dated 9th February 2022 registered in CPENGRAMS, in respect of non-settlement of final superannuation pension, release of CDRG and grant of CVP in respect of Shri G P Biradar, Retd DE, BGTD, the CCA Karnataka Circle has written to GM (HR), O/o CGMT Karnataka Circle, requesting to ensure a clear VC in respect of Shri G P Biradar, as in other similar cases." CGMT Karnataka Circle has replied to CCA Karnataka Circle, attaching the letter received from CVO BSNL stating that "Same pattern is followed by this office for issuing the VC for similar type of cases." View the CGMT Karnataka letter15.04.2022:
SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES OF THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019 DURING CURRENCY OF PENALTY - ON OUR APPEAL DOT NOW CONCEDES THAT NECESSARY ACTION TO BE TAKEN BY DOT HQ:
We had earlier reported that "Despite our specific mention that the issue is to be resolved by DoT Headquarters by issuing the clarification sought for by PCCA Tamilnadu Circle, our letter dated 2nd March has been forwarded to PCCA Tamilnadu circle by DoT. PCCA Tamilnadu has repeated its earlier statement that the clarification sought for is still awaited. AIBSNLREA has submitted an appeal against closure of the grievance." DDG (PG) DoT has now disposed our appeal with the remarks "As per text of the appeal and enclosures from CCA Tamilnadu, necessary action to be taken up by DoT HQ". View the disposal remarks14.04.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA AMBALA BRANCH HELD:
A general body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 12.04.2022 at Dilli Durbar Restaurant under the Presidentship of Sh, R K. Sharma. The meeting was attended by 33 members. One new member also joined our Association as a life member who was welcomed by all the members. First of all the President welcomed all the members. The members then condoled the death of the wife of Sh. H C Madan, our senior member and husband of Smt Kavita working DGM Finance in Mobile wing of Haryana Circle. A two minutes silence was also observed. Then with permission the Chair, Shri S K Aggarwal Branch Secretary gave a detailed briefing on the following issues concerning the members.1) Shifting of CGHS wellness Centre Ambala 2) Revision of Pension for BSNL Pensioners as per 3rd PRC in sync with Association HQ View 3) Payment of pending Medical bills of BSNL pensioners. 4) All other issues raised by members like increase in quantum of pension after every 5 years as per Parliamentary Panel Recommendations etc. The meeting was followed by motion of thanks and a sumptuous lunch.13.04.2022:
PROCEDURE FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF CHANGE OF OPTION BY A PENSIONER/FAMILY PENSIONER FROM FMA TO CGHS (OPD) AND VICE-VERSA:
DoP&PW has issued a O.M. detailing the procedure for implementation of option by a pensioner/family pensioner from FMA to CGHS (OPC) and vice-versa, (i) when a pensioner residing in non-CGHS area shifts his residence to a CGHS covered area, (ii)if a pensioner residing in non-CGHS area and availing FMA in lieu of OPD facility, intends to avail CGHS facility for both OPD and IPD and (iii) if a pensioner availing CGHS for both IPD and OPD, intends to avail FMA while residing in non-CGHS area or on shifting residence from a CGHS area to a non-CGHS area. View the DoP&PW OM11.04.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'DIABETES - PREVENTION AND HOW TO AVOID / LIVE WITH MINIMAL COMPLICATIONS':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Diabetes - How to avoid/live with minimal complications’ at 4 PM on 12.04.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.10.04.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.04.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 185.3% w.e.f 01.04.2022 in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.2007. View the DPE OM09.04.2022:
NEW AGENDA ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION IN 32ND STANDING COMMITTEE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES (SCOVA) MEETING TO BE HELD ON 12.04.2022:
DoP&PW has circulated the new agenda items for discussion in the 32nd meeting of SCOVA to be held on 12.04.2022, which includes periodical Health Checkup for pensioners, Payment of DA/DR arrears freeaed for 18 months from 1.1.2020 to 30.6.2021, Enhancement of quantum of pension and Enhancement of Fixed Medical Allowance. View the DoP&PW letter08.04.2022:
QA & INSPECTION CIRCLE PROVIDES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SUBSEQUENT TO ITS LETTER DATED 11TH FEBRUARY 2022:
We had reported earlier that AIBSNLREA had taken up the issue of non-settlement of final superannuation pension, release of DCRG and grant of Commuted Value of Pension even after issue of final retirement order to Shri S V Rojed, Retd SDE, Quality Assurance Circle, with the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW vide its letter dated 9th February 2022 and registered the grievance with CPENGRAMS on 10th February 2022 and that AO (Pay & HR), O/o the CGM QA & Inspection Circle has informed us that the pension papers along with Service Book of Shri S V Rojed Retd SDE QA Circle has already been forwarded to CCA Karnataka on 11th February 2022. Now QA & Inspection circle has provided information about a later development that CCA Karnataka Circle requires final vigilance clearance certificate to settle the case. View the QA & Inspn. circle letter07.04.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH HELD:
A general body meeting of AIBSNLREA Kurukshetra branch was held on 6th April 2022 at 11.00 AM in Haryana Tourism's Yatri Niwas. The meeting was presided over by its President Shri S K Verma. 29 members attended the meeting and two new life members were enrolled. At the very outset the branch secretary Shri Rajvir Choudhary welcomed the members and introduced the new Members who had joined the Association. Then the branch secretary requested Shri D S Sandhu OS North to address the house. The OS North then briefed the members of various activities and developments being carried over by our General Secretary and his team to resolve various issues confronting BSNL pensioners. [View Haryana section of State News Page to read the full report]06.04.2022:
E-JOURNAL APRIL 2022 ISSUE:
April 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.05.04.2022:
PCCA TAMILNADU COMES UP WITH THE SAME REPLY IN RESPONSE TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY DOT ON SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES OF THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019 DURING CURRENCY OF PENALTY:
Despite our specific mention that the issue is to be resolved by DoT Headquarters by issuing the clarification sought for by PCCA Tamilnadu Circle, our letter dated 2nd March has been forwarded to PCCA Tamilnadu circle by DoT. PCCA Tamilnadu has repeated its earlier statement that the clarification sought for is still awaited. AIBSNLREA has submitted an appeal against closure of the grievance. View the PCCA Tamilnadu Circle letter03.04.2022:
NOMINATION BY PENSIONERS UNDER THE PAYMENT OF ARREARS OF PENSION (NOMINATION) RULES, 1983 FOR PAYMENT OF LIFETIME ARREARS:
Taking in to account instances being reported about non-availability of nomination due to improper handling of the nominations by the Banks, Banks not keeping a proper record of the nominations, problems that arise if the nomination submitted at the time of retirement becomes invalid on account of the nominee predeceasing the pensioner or for some other reason and the pensioner fails to submit a fresh nomination to the Bank in Form A or the staff in Bank branches do not accept the nomination due to ignorance,, DoP&PW has reiterated the procedures to be followed and actions required to be taken by Ministries/Departments, Accdounts Offices/CPAO and Pension Disbursing Authorities/Banks, for strict compliance. View the DoP&PW letter02.04.2022:
REVISION OF ANNUAL CEILING LIMIT FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF OUTDOOR TREATMENT FOR RETIRED BSNL EMPLOYEE:
BSNL has again revised the annual ceiling limit for reimbursement of outdoor treatment for retired BSNL employees, bringing it down from 15 days to 12 days' pay (Basic pay at the time of retirement plus DA as on 01.04.2020), with vouchers. View the BSNL order01.04.2022:
QA & INSPECTION CIRCLE RESPONDS TO OUR LETTER DATED 9TH FEBRUARY 2022 ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY DO&PW:
AIBSNLREA had taken up the issue of non-settlement of final superannuation pension, release of DCRG and grant of Commuted Value of Pension even after issue of final retirement order to Shri S V Rojed, Retd SDE, Quality Assurance Circle, with the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW vide its letter dated 9th February 2022 and registered the grievance with CPENGRAMS on 10th February 2022. AO (Pay & HR), O/o the CGM QA & Inspection Circle has now informed us that the pension papers along with Service Book of Shri S V Rojed Retd SDE QA Circle has already been forwarded to CCA Karnataka on 11th February 2022. View the QA & Inspn. circle letter31.03.2022:
IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.04.2022:
According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for the months December 2021, January and February 2022, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.04.2022 is 185.3% [increase by 1.2%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and 381.7% [increase by 2.1%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.1997.31.03.2022:
CCA KARNATAKA CIRCLE WRITES TO GENERAL MANAGER (HR) O/o CGMT KARNATAKA WITH REFERENCE TO OUR LETTER DATED 9TH FEBRUARY 2022 ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY DO&PW:
Referring to our representation dated 9th February 2022 registered in CPENGRAMS, in respect of non-settlement of final superannuation pension, release of DCRG and grant of CVP in respect of Shri G P Biradar, Retd DE, BGTD, the CCA Karnataka Circle has written to GM (HR), O/o CGMT Karnataka Circle, requesting to ensure a clear VC in respect of Shri G P Biradar, as in other similar cases. View the CCA Karnataka letter30.03.2022:
EXTENSION OF VALIDITY PERIOD OF ALREADY EMPANELLED HEALTH CARE ORGANISATIONS (HCOs) UNDER CGHS:
DG CGHS has issued orders extending the empanelment of all Health Care Organisations already empanelled under CGHS for a period of six months w.e.f. 1st April 2022 to 30th September 2022 or the next empanelment whichever is earlier. View the DG CGHS order29.03.2022:
AIBSNLREA VARANASI BRANCH HELD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
A general body meeting of AIBSNLREA Varanasi Branch was held on 24-03-22 at CTO building for Holi Milan Samaroh and for discussing the matters of pensioners' welfare and CGHS beneficiary facilities. The meeting decided to hold the AGB on 10.05.2022 to elect the new body of office bearers. Three new members were enrolled.28.03.2022:
REVIEW DPC IN COMPLIANCE OF SUPREME COURT DIRECTIONS IN CA No. 4389 OF 2010:
Consequent to revision of SDEs (T) seniority list as per Rule 206 of P&T Manual Volume IV in compliance of Supreme Court directions in CA No.4389 of 2010, BSNL has now conducted review DPC of the Regular DPCs held in the year 2014 and has issued orders promoting 60 executives to DE/AGM grade regular notionally w.e.f. 20.08.2014 and antedating their date of promotion, promoting 30 executives notionally w.e.f. 20.08.2014, who were never promoted in the original DPC and postponing the date of promotion to 20.08.2014 in respect of 224 executives. While there is no change in date of promotion of 1903 executives, 98 executives remain un-assessed due to non-availability of ACRs for the relevant periods. 3 Executives are promoted after the end of their currency of penalty, (date mentioned against their name) subject to VC. View the BSNL order26.03.2022:
WITHDRAWAL OF INCORRECT CLARIFICATION ISSUED BY BSNL ON TAXABILITY OF REIMBURSED ONE-TIME CGHS CONTRIBUTION PAID BY BSNL PENSIONERS - BSNL INTIMATES THT MATTER CAN BE REVISITED ONCE DECISION IS TAKEN:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter addressed to Director (F) BSNL, now drawing attention to the contents of the booklet published by the Income Tax Department in the name "Tax payers information - Series 36 - VALUATION OF PERQUISITES" wherein it has been clearly stated that "Medical insurance premium paid or reimbursed by the employer is not chargeable to tax", and requesting to withdraw the clarification and stop deducting tax on this account with immediate effect, DoT has closed the grievance docket with the remarks that "The said grievance was forwarded to the BSNL who has intimated that: BEING A POLICY MATTER CAN BE REVISITED ONCE DECISION IS TAKEN. LETTER ALREADY ADDRESSED TO DIR(F) FOR N/A". View the DoT remarks24.03.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA NAGPUR BRANCH HELD:
The Annual General Body Meeting of Nagpur Branch was held on 15.3.2022. Before starting the Meeting a two minutes silence was observed for paying tribute to our departed members. Branch Vice-President Shri V.W. Patil presided over the meeting. Circle Vice-President Shri N.G. Talewar, BR V/P. Shri B.D. Nikam, Assistant Circle Secretary Shri Bhola Kamble, Finance Secretary Shri B.P. Majumdar and Branch Secretary Shri Arun Deshpande were sitting on the dias.[View Maharashtra Section of State News page to read the full report]23.03.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH HELD:
The annual GB meeting of Palakkad Branch was held on 22.3.2022 at Top In Town auditorium, Palakkad at 11 AM. 57 members were present in the meeting. 2 new members also joined. The Secretary presented the annual report and it was passed unanimously. Financial Secretary presented the report of accounts and the same was passed by the GB. New office bearers were elected in the meeting for the next term. Shri P Prabhakaran was re-elected as Secretary, unanimously. There were elaborate discussions in the meeting on various issues being faced by BSNL Pensioners. The meeting urged the Central Government to take urgent actions for the revision of pension of retired BSNL employees and for the immediate release of necessary funds for clearing all medical bills including with/with out voucher cases pending for payment to the retired BSNL employees since 2018. The meeting was concluded at 2 PM after lunch. View the list of new office bearers22.03.2022:
DOT DISPOSES OF OUR APPEAL STATING THAT IT IS LEARNT FROM THE CONCERNED CELL THAT (MEDICAL BILL) PAYMENT SHALL BE DONE SHORTLY:
AIBSNLREA has been repeatedly and unrelentingly taking up the issue of non-payment of medical reimbursement bills for pensioners for the past 3 years. We had written to Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW on 25th November 2021 requesting to direct BSNL to specify a date in the near future within which all the pending medical claims will be paid. The letter was forwarded to BSNL by DoP&PW. BSNL had closed the case with a irresponsible reply that it being a policy matter, does not relate to CB&B division. We had made an appeal against this closure. Now DoT has replied that "It is learnt from concerned cell that payment shall be done shortly." Date of action on the appeal is shown as 07/03/2022. View the DoT reply22.03.2022:
PARLIAMENTARY PANEL PITCHES FOR CARVING OUT MTNL'S DEBT, ASSETS WORTH Rs26500 CRORES; GIVING 5G TO BSNL:
The Department of Telecom (DoT) should consider carving out MTNL's debt and assets worth over Rs.26,500 crore into a special purpose vehicle and then merge its operations with BSNL, according to a Parliamentary panel. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology chaired by Lok Sabha member Shashi Tharoor on Monday said there is still hope from BSNL which is trying to earn revenue. View the News report21.03.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'BRONCHIAL ASTHMA AND OTHER COMMON ALLERGIC CONDITIONS':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Bronchial Asthma and other common allergic conditions’ at 4 PM on 22.03.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.16.03.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO DIRECTOR (F) BSNL REQUESTING WITHDRAWAL OF INCORRECT CLARIFICATION ISSUED BY BSNL ON TAXABILITY OF REIMBURSED ONE-TIME CGHS CONTRIBUTION PAID BY BSNL PENSIONERS:
AIBSNLREA has again taken up the matter with Director (F) BSNL, now drawing attention to the contents of the booklet published by the Income Tax Department in the name "Tax payers information - Series 36 - VALUATION OF PERQUISITES" wherein it has been clearly stated that "Medical insurance premium paid or reimbursed by the employer is not chargeable to tax", and has requested to withdraw the clarification and stop deducting tax on this account with immediate effect. View the letter13.03.2022:
AIBSNLREA NAGPUR BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:
AIBSNLREA Nagpur Branch will hold its Annual General Body meeting on Tuesday, 15th March 2022 at 4.30 PM at Amenity Hall, CTO Compound. All members and retired BSNL Executives are requested to attend the meeting.12.03.2022:
AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:
AIBSNLREA Palakkad Branch will hold its Annual General Body meeting on Tuesday, the 22.3.2022 at 11AM at Top in Town, Palakkad duly following Covid-19 protocols. As the meeting is going to be conducted after a long gap of 2 yrs, all members are requested to attend the meeting without fail. To have an idea about the total number of members attending, all members may please intimate their presence/absence in advance.10.03.2022:
GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH HELD:
The General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Chennai was held on 3rd March 2022 at Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Ashoknagar, Chennai-600083.The meeting commenced with prayer song by Com.Nirmala Subramanian. Com.V.Dakshinamoorthy President welcomed all members who had assembled in large numbers after nearly two years during which no meeting could be conducted due to Corona and in his address he requested CHQ to take up the issue of reduction of number of years for restoration of Commuted pension from the present 15years as the interest rates have come down, getting additional pension after completion of 65,70 ,75 years at 5%,10%and 15% respectively instead of 20% pension increase after completion of 80years of age. He requested CHQ to give reminder to DOT/BSNL to pay the CGHS fees directly instead of reimbursement as our association has already taken up the issue long back.[View Tamilnadu Section of State News Page of this website to read the full Report]07.03.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'COMMON LIFESTYLE DISEASES AND WAYS TO AVOID THESE CONDITIONS':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Common Lifestyle diseases and ways to avoid these conditions’ at 4 PM on 08.03.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.06.03.2022:
E-JOURNAL MARCH 2022 ISSUE:
March 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.02.03.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO SECRETARY DOT REQUESTING EARLY ISSUE OF CLARIFICATION SOUGHT FOR BY PCCA TAMILNADU ON SETTLEMENT OF PENSION CASES OF THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019 DURING CURRENCY OF PENALTY:
AIBSNLREA has again taken up the matter with Secretary, DoT, requesting early issue of the clarification sought for by PCCA Tamilnadu more than a year back so as to put an end to the agony of Shri V.Sampathkumar Retd AO Erode SSA. View the letter01.03.2022:
GM TD NELLORE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER REGARDING GRIEVANCE OF SHRI C H SUBRAHMANYAM RETD SDE NELLORE:
In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 1st October 2021 addressed to the CGMT AP Circle, on discrepancy in pay fixation in IDA pay scale on absorption in BSNL w.e.f. 01.10.2000 resulting in lesser pension in respect of Shri C H Subrahmanyam Retd SDE Nellore, GM TD Nellore has replied that the matter was taken up with Circle Office and the pensioner was informed that his request for change of option cannot be acceded as it is time barred. View the GM TD Nellore letter28.02.2022:
AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO SECRETARY DOT REQUESTING ISSUE OF ORDERS RESTRAINING CCAs NOT FROM GOING BACK TO A PERIOD EARLIER THAN 24 MONTHS PRECEDING THE DATE OF RETIREMENT FOR RAISING OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO PAY FIXATION ETC:
AIBSNLREA has again taken up the matter with Secretary, DoT, citing Department of Posts letter No.100-1/2020-Pension dated 27.07.2020 directing its officers in DAP to adhere to the rules in this regard. Department of Posts has further clearly advised that the Officers should in any case not go back to a period earlier than 24 months preceding the date of retirement for raising observations relating to pay fixation etc as per the guidelines in Rule 7.3.2 - Role of Pay and Accounts Officer in Chapter 7 of the Civil Accounts Manual for the HOD and Pay and Accounts Officer and requesting issue of similar orders to the CCAs. View the letter26.02.2022:
NON-RELEASE OF ORIGINAL LAND DEED BY CGM QA & INSPN CIRCLE TO SHRI ASIT BARAN MURMU, RETD DGM CMTS KOLKATA - ISSUE FINALLY RESOLVED:
AIBSNLREA had taken up the matter of non-release of original land deed to Shri A B Murmu, Retd DGM, Kolkata, despite fully recovery of the HBA availed by him since recovery details for the period from September 2003 to July 2004 when he served in DoT HQ had not been received from DoT. In response to AIBSNLREA letter addressed to DoT on 30.08.2018, DoT vide its letter dated 10th December 2018 addressed to AO QA & Inspection Circle with copy marked to the association, had furnished the recovery details. Shri A B Murmu has now informed us that he has received all the original documents from QA & Inspection Circle.25.02.2022:
REVIEW DPC IN COMPLIANCE OF SUPREME COURT DIRECTIONS IN CA No. 4389 OF 2010:
Consequent to revision of SDEs (T) seniority list as per Rule 206 of P&T Manual Volume IV in compliance of Supreme Court directions in CA No.4389 of 2010, BSNL has now conducted review DPC of the 5th Regular DPC held in the year 2013 and has issued orders promoting 235 executives to DE/AGM grade regular notionally w.e.f. 25.10.2013 and antedating their date of promotion, promoting 25 executives notionally w.e.f. 25.10.2013, who were never promoted in the original DPC and postponing the date of promotion to 25.10.2013 in respect of 103 executives. While there is no change in date of promotion of 161 executives, 43 executives remain un-assessed due to non-availability of ACRs for the relevant periods. View the BSNL order24.02.2022:
PAYMENT OF PROVISIONAL PENSION AND GRATUITY UNDER RULE 62 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES 2021, DUE TO ANTICIPATED DELAY IN ISSUING PPO - REGULAR PENSION TO BE AUTHORISED ON EXPIRY OF SIX MONTHS:
DoP&PW has reiterated that there should not be any situation where regular pension is not authorised by the Accounts Officer to a retired Government servant on expiry of period of six months in cases where provisional pension was sanctioned due to antcipated delay in issue of PPO. It further emphasizes that pension should not be discountinued under any circumstances, if, for any reason, PPO for regular pension could not be issued by the Account Officer till the expiry of the aforesaid period of six months. View the DoP&PWs O.M23.02.2022:
AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH TO HOLD ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:
AIBSNLREA Chennai Branch will hold its General Body meeting on 3rd March 2022 from 10 AM for half a day with lunch at 1 PM. The Venue will be Raja Rani Hall, Hotel Saravana Bhavan, Near Ashok Pillar, Chennai. All members and interested retired BSNL executives are requested to attend the meeting. All are requested to follow COVID protocols during the meeting.21.02.2022:
CGHS LAUNCHES NEW CGHS MOBILE APPLICATION FOR ANDROID MOBILE DEVICES:
CGHS has launched a new mobile application for android devices by the name 'myCGHS'. Once installed in the mobile phone, the App provides access to booking/cancelling appointment, Medical history, Card details, Reimbursement claim status and details and location of Empanelled Centre, Wellness Centres and CGHS offices. View the DoH&FW O.M21.02.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'LIFESTYLE DISORDERS & HOMOEOPATHY':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Lifestyle disorders & Homoeopathy’ at 4 PM on 22.02.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.18.02.2022:
MEETING WITH GENERAL MANAGER (PERS) BSNL CO:
AGS Shri V P Arya met GM (Pers) yesterday and requested his intervention in the matter of regularising pension and releasing all retirement benefits to Shri B M Nyamati, Retd CAO, BG TD, on the CAT Bangalore quashing the chargesheet issued to him just the day prior to his retirement under BSNL VRS 2019. He requested him to advise CGM Karnataka Circle to follow the instructions issued by BSNL CO on release of pension and other pensionary benefits when a pensioner is acquitted by trial court, notwithstanding any appeal filed against such acquittal, subject to final outcome of the appeal. GM (Pers) agreed to take up the matter with Karnataka Circle.18.02.2022:
MEETING WITH GENERAL MANAGER (ESTT) BSNL CO:
AGS Shri V P Arya met GM (Estt) yesterday and discussed the long standing grievance of Shri A K Dubey Retd AGM UP West Circle. He explained to him that when initially UP West Circle condoned the administrative delay causing break period between completion of induction training and formal appointment, it had cancelled the condonation orders on query by Corporate Office. After our pursuing the case continuously, Corporate Office replied that UP West circle is competent to take a decision on its own, but UP West Circle is now putting the ball in the court of Corporate Office. GM (Estt) insisted that it is UP West Circle which is competent to take a decision and if they have any doubts let them write to Corporate Office.
14.02.2022:
TIME BOUND REIMBURSEMENT OF ONE TIME PAYMENT OF CGHS SUBSCRIPTION TO ELIGIBLE OPTEES UPTO 31.03.2022:
BSNL has issued a letter conveying its decision that those Retirees/VRS optees who have not opted for CGHS facility so far, they can switch over to CGHS by 31st March 2022 and get reimbursement of one time payment of their CGHS subscription within one month of submission of their claim to BSNL. View the BSNL letter10.02.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW REGARDING NON-SETTLEMENT OF FINAL SUPERNNUATION PENSION, RELEASE OF DCRG AND GRANT OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION TO SHRI S V ROJED RETD SDE QA CIRCLE:
Pointing out that even after BSNL Corporate Office issuing the final retirement order on 10th March 2021 to Shri S V Rojed, he has not received his regular pension and other retirement benefits viz gratuity and CVP, AIBSNLREA has now drawn the attention of the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW, requesting him to advise BSNL QA & Inspection Circle to resolve his grievance immediately. View the letter09.02.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DoP&PW REGARDING NON-SETTLEMENT OF FINAL SUPERNNUATION PENSION, RELEASE OF DCRG AND GRANT OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION TO SHRI G P BIRADAR RETD DE BANGALORE TELECOM DISTRICT:
Pointing out that even after BSNL Corporate Office issuing the final retirement order on 19th July 2021 to Shri G P Biradar, he has not received his regular pension and other retirement benefits viz gratuity and CVP, AIBSNLREA has now drawn the attention of the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW, requesting him to advise BSNL Karnataka Circle to resolve his grievance immediately. View the letter07.02.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'MENSTRUAL PROBLEMS IN WOMEN AND NEED FOR SPECIAL CARE AT PUBERTY AND MENOPAUSE':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Menstrual problems in women and need for special care at puberty and menopause’ at 4 PM on 08.02.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.06.02.2022:
E-JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2022 ISSUE:
February 2022 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal has been uploaded and is available under the link "E-Journal" in the left column. E-Journals of earlier years/months can also be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website.04.02.2022:
PROPOSAL OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON ATTAINING THE AGE OF 65, 70 AND 75 YEARS:
Department related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justive in its 110th Report had recommended to consider the demand of Pensioners' Associations for additional quantum of Pension to the Pensioners/family pensioners @ 5%, 10% and 15% on attaining the age of 65 years, 70 years and 75 years respectively. In this connection DoP&PW vide its letter dated 20.01.2022 had called for details of age-wise number of pensioners, amount of pension paid in December 2021 with DR and without DR, for working out the financial implications. Referring to this DoP&PW letter, DoT has requested the CGCA New Delhi to provide the information in respect of telecom pensioners by 07.02.2022.04.02.2022:
PAYMENT OF FAMILY PENSION IN RESPECT OF CHILD SUFFERING FROM A DISORDER OR DISABIITY OF MIND THROUGH THE PERSONNOMINATTED BY THE GOVERNMENT SERVANT/PENSIONER/FAMILY PENSIONER:
DoP&PW has clarified that in cases where a nomination made by the Government Servant/Pensioner/Family pensioner has been incorporated in the Pension Payment Order issued to child suffering from a mental disability, it is incumbent on the Pension Disbursing Banks to disburse the family pension in respect of such chile through the person so nominated. Insisting for a gurdianship certificate by the Banks in such cases would defeat the very purpose of such nomination and would also amount to violation of the statutory provisions. View the DoP&PW letter01.02.2022:
DPE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER REQUESTING EARLY RELEASE OF ORDERS FOR REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.01.2022:
Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 14th January 2022 conveying our concern in delay in relase of orders and requesting early issue of orders for revised IDA rates due from 01.01.2022, DPE has now replied that "Orders for revision of IDA rates due from 01.01.2022 have already been issued vide OMs dated 24.01.2022 (2017, 2007, 1997,) and 28.01.2022 (1992 and 1987)." View the DPE reply28.01.2022:
STORAGE OF CGHS CARD ON DIGILOCKER PLATFORM FOR ITS ACCESS AND USE FOR CGHS SERVICES:
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has issued an O.M conveying its decision to provide an option to store CGHS card in DigiLocker, which is available as a mobile application. Through DigiLocket Platform, a CGHS beneficiary would be able to download his/her CGHS card on the mobile device. View the DoH&FW O.M27.01.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.01.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 184.1% w.e.f 01.01.2022 in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.2007. View the DPE OM27.01.2022:
DPE ISSUES ORDERS ON REVISED IDA RATES DUE FROM 01.01.2022:
DPE has issued orders revising IDA rate to 379.6% w.e.f 01.01.2022, in respect of CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.1997. View the DPE OM25.01.2022:
RBI RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER TO DoP&PW REQUESTING TO IMPRESS UPON THE BANKS TO IMPLEMENT THE LONG EXISTING INSTRUCTION ON DOORSTEP COLLECTION OF LIFE CERTIFICATES FROM PENSIONERS:
AIBSNLREA had addressed the Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW on 07.09.2021, with a copy marked to the Governor, RBI [View AIBSNLREA letter] requesting him to impress upon the CPPCs of all banks to ensure implementation of the long existing instructions to collect the Life Certificate from the doorsteps of the pensioners. In its response, RBI has informed us that banks have been advised to incorporate certain aspects in their Board approved policy for such services, with clear instructions to address the issue of collection of Life Certificate from Senior Citizens. It has further stated that, if there is any grievance against a particular bank, complaint be first lodged with the Regulated Entity (the bank) for deficiency of service and if grievance is not redressed within 30 days, the applicant can file a complaint on https://cms.rbi.org.in. Complaint can also be sent to the dedicated email crpc@rbi.org.in. View the response from RBI24.01.2022:
CGHS EXTENDS TIMINGS OF E-SANJEEVANI TELECONSULTATION:
CGHS has issued a O.M.extending the timings of eSanjeevani Teleconsultation from the existing 9.00 AM - 12 Noon, to 9.30 AM - 6.00 PM (with 1.30 PM to 2.00 PM break) on Monday to Fridayand 7.30 AM to 2.00 PM on Saturday, w.e.f 17th January 2022. While Consulltations on Internal Medicine will be available on all days, ENT will be available on Tuesday & Friday, Opthalmology on Monday, Wednesday & Friday, Orthopedics on Monday & Thursday and Psychiatry on Wednesday. View the CGHS O.M24.01.2022:
REVAMPED CGHS WEBSITE AND MOBILE APP LAUNCHED:
Aimed at benefiting more than 40 lakh beneficiaries (both in-service and retired personnel) with real-time information from the convenience of their homes, the Health Ministry has revamped the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) website (www.cghs.gov.in) and mobile app, “MyCGHS”. The basket of services is enlarged with the revamped website. With the newly provided feature of tele–consultation, the CGHS beneficiaries can seek expert advice directly through teleconsultation. The website also has a link to beneficiary login for accessing online facilities such as tracking of medical claims, grievances, status and downloading of CGHS card, accessing history of medicines, online appointment system and various other facilities.24.01.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'VARIOUS NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS & ROLE OF YOGA':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘Various neurological conditions & role of Yoga’ at 4 PM on 25.01.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.20.01.2022:
CGHS CARD IS VALID FOR REFERRAL TO EMPANELLED HCOs OF PENSIONER BENEFICIARIES THROUGH REFERRAL MODULE, IRRESPECTIVE OF CITY/WC WHERE THE CARD IS REGISTERED:
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has issued an order clarifying that CGHS card is valid at any Wellness Centers in India for availing CGHS facilities, irrespective of the WC/ City, where it is registered. It has been further clarified that Empanelled HCOs shall provide treatment on credit basis to CGHS pensioner beneficiaries on referral or in medical emergency, irrespective of the City / Wellness Centre where the CGHS Card is registered and the credit bill shall be sent to the CGHS of the City where the treatment is taken. View the DoH&FW order17.01.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MINISTER OF FINANCE SUGGESTING RELIEF TO SENIOR CITIZENS/PENSIONERS IN THE UPCOMING UNION BUDGET:
AIBSNLREA has drawn attention of the Minister of Finance to the fact that in the recent years, Pensioners’ income from interest on deposits has steeply eroded, while the cost of living has been peaking, leaving them most vulnerable to financial crisis. The reliefs being offered in Income Tax is a paltry compensation compared to their financial woes. AIBSNLREA therefore suggested some measures to be incorporated in the upcoming Union Budget, so that the Senior Citizens/Pensioners get some relief to cheer about. View the letter15.01.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) REQUESTING TO ALLOW REIMBURSEMENT OF CLAIMS OF OUTDOOR MEDICAL TREATMENT WITH VOUCHER, WITH THE LATEST AVAILABLE PRESCRIPTION, IN VIEW OF THE RESURGENCE OF ACTIVE CASES OF COVID-19:
In the background of more and more restrictions being placed by the State governments to control spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 and the risks involved in visiting the Doctors/Clinics considering the fact that Omicron variant is stated to be the fastest spreading virus known to humankind, AIBSNLREA has addressed Director (HR) requesting issue of similar orders as has been issued by Director General CGHS, permitting submission of claims with the latest available prescription, till the present wave of Covid-19 subsides. View the letter14.01.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY DPE FOR EARLY RELEASE OF ORDERS FOR REVISION OF IDA DUE FROM 01.01.2022:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary, DPE, conveying its concern over delay in issue of orders for Revision of IDA w.e.f. 01.01.2022 and requesting early issue of orders. View the letter13.01.2022:
CGHS FURTHER EXTENDS PERIOD TILL WHEN CGHS BENEFICIERIES CAN PURCHASE MEDICINES WITH THE EXISTING PRESCRIPTION, UP TO 30TH APRIL 2022:
In view of the COVID-19 pandemic and resurgence of active cases, CGHS has permitted purchase of medicines based on the prescriptionn held (prescribed by CGHS Medical Officers/CGHS Specialists/other Govt Specialists/Specialists of empanelled hospital) till 30th April 2022. The order is valid from the date of issue. View the CGHS OM13.01.2022:
AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION), DoP&PW SUGGESTING IMPROVEMENTS IN CPENGRAMS BASED ON EXPERIENCES OF SHORTCOMINGS IN THE SYSTEM AND LACK OF REAL MONITORING OF RESOLUTION OF GRIEVANCES:
AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW explaining in detail its observations as an association of BSNL retired Executives on the shortcomings in CPENGRAMS and suggesting improvements in the system in order to obviate the pain and agony of the pensioners and to ensure that the real purpose of formulating the system is achieved. View the letter11.01.2022:
BSNL ISSUES GUIDELINES UNDER BSNLMRS IN VIEW OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC:
In order to facilitate quick and smooth treatment during Covid-19 pandemic, BSNL has issued guidelines under BSNLMRS, relaxing certain provisions regarding visit of designated officer, treatment in non-empanelled hospitals, reimbursement of Tele-consultation and reimbursement of charges of RTPCR/Rapid antigen test applicable w.e.f. 1.1.2022 and up to 31.3.2022. View the BSNL letter10.01.2022:
CPAO WRITES TO ALL CPPCs OF BANKS REITERATING INSTRUCTIONS ON PAYMENT OF DEARNESS RELIEF TO PENSIONERS:
Central Pension Accounting Office, Department of Expenditure has written to Heads of CPPCs of Banks again, bringing to their notice that revised Dearness Relief should be paid immediately to pensioners after orders to this effect have been issued by the competent authority, without waiting for CPAO to reiterate the orders issued by the concerned Ministries/Departments. View the CPAO OM10.01.2022:
CGHS TO HOLD WEBINAR ON 'HOW TO ADDRESS THE ISSUES/CONCERNS OF A TEEN AGE CHILD':
CGHS has informed us through email that as a step further towards the issue ‘Your Health Our Goal’, it is holding a webinar on ‘How to address the issues/concerns of a teen age child’ at 4 PM on 11.01.2022. One can join the same by using the link: https://cghshq.webex.com/meet/adhq.dl CGHS has further requested to download webex app to attend the seminar.08.01.2022:
ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH HELD:
The Annual General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Kurukshetra branch was held at Haryana Tourism Yatri Niwas on 7.01.2022 at 11.30 am under strict Covid protocol. Two minutes silence was observed and tributes were paid to condole the untimely death of late Shri Sushil Kumar Aggarwal an active life member of the branch. Shri D S Sandhu Org.Secy North CHQ briefed the members about the status of various cases pursued by the general secretary viz pension revision, anomaly case, non payment medical claims, New Pension Rules 2021, latest IDA rates and appeal in Dehli High Court regarding 78.2% arrears etc. Two new life members also joined the Association in the meeting. The Financial Secretary presented summary of accounts which was adopted unanimously.Following office bearers were unanimously elected for the next term. President - Shri S K Verma (skverma.cao@gmail.com), vice presidents - s/Shri M L Arya and Roshan Lal, Secretary Shri Rajvir Singh Chaudhary (sde.chaudhry@gmail.com), Astt secretaries - s/Shri S.K Kakkar and Virender Kumar Harjai, Financial Secretary- Shri Ashok Kumar Sharma (ashok_gaichand@yahoo.com),Astt.Finance secretary - Sh.M L Munjal. Executive Members - s/Shri Jasbir Singh,S L Saini, Likhni Chand, Balbir Ranga, Zile Ram and Nand Kishore. The meeting concluded with vote of thanks followed by a sumptuous Lunch.
06.01.2022: