Cabinet approves Memorandum of Understanding signed between India and Republic of The Gambia on Refurbishing Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Government of India and the Public Service Commission, Office of the President, Republic of The Gambia on Refurbishing Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms.
Impact:
The MoU will help in understanding the personnel administration of both the countries and enable in improving the system of governance through replicating, adapting and innovating some of the best practices and processes.
Financial implications:
Each country will be responsible for its expenditure in connection with the implementation of this MoU. Actual amount of expenditure will depend on the activities that may be undertaken under the MoU.
Details:
The areas of cooperation under this MoU would include, but shall not
be limited to:
a) Improving Performance Management System in Government.
b) Implementation of contributory Pension Scheme
c) E-recruitment in Government
The main objective of the MoU is to strengthen and promote bilateral cooperation between the two countries in Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms, as this will facilitate a dialogue between Indian Government agencies and the agencies of the Republic of the Gambia. More so, Gambia is keen to engage with India to promote cooperation in areas such as Improving Performance Management System in Government, Implementation of contributory Pension Scheme and, e-Recruitment in Government.
The MoU with the Republic of the Gambia will provide a legal framework to the cooperation between the two countries in Refurbishing Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms so as to improve upon the existing system of governance by learning, sharing and exchanging administrative experiences in the area of Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms and instill a greater sense of responsiveness, accountability and transparency.
Background:
Government of India has taken up a goal of quantum shift in delivery of Government Services across the country and also aims to further Government’s efforts at revamping of Personnel Administration and Governance Reforms which is relevant in the context of the goal of ‘Minimum Government with Maximum Governance’.
PCDA Circular 216 : Transfer of Pension Account in respect of Armed Forces / Defence Civilian pensioners from India to Nepal and vice versa
OFFICE OF THE PR. CONTROLLER OF DEFENCE ACCOUNTS (PENSIONS)
DRAUPADI GHAT, ALLAHABAD – 211 014,
(Through website)
Circular No.216
AT/Tech/30/ Vol‐XX
Dated:21.06.2021
To
1. Military and Air Attaché, Indian Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal.
2. The Chief Accountant, RBI Deptt. of Govt. Bank Accounts, Central office C‐7, Second Floor, Bandre‐ Kurla Complex, P B No. 8143, Bandre East Mumbai‐400051
3. The Director of Treasuries of all states
4. The Manger CPPC of Public Sector Banks including IDBI
5. The CDA (PD) Meerut
6. The CDA‐Chennai
7. The Nodal Officers (ICICI/ AXIS/HDFC Bank)
8. The Pay & Accounts Officers
9. The DPDO
10. The Post Master Kathua
Sub: Transfer of Pension Account in respect of Armed Forces/Defence Civilian pensioners from India to Nepal and vice versa.
Ref: Defence Pension Payment Instruction (DPPI)‐2013 and this office Circular No. 206 dated 02.11.2018.
*****
In continuation to this office Circular No.206 dated 02.11.2018, attention of all Pension Disbursing Authorities is invited towards the transfer of pension account from India to Nepal and vice versa in respect of Nepal domiciled pensioners. In this regard, all Pension Disbursing Authorities are well aware of the procedure to be adopted in the transfer of pension account of the pensioners and instructions have also been issued through DPPI‐ 2013 as well as circulars from time to time.
2. Despite the above, various pensioners and Pensioner’s Associations are frequently representing that Pension Disbursing Authorities are not taking prompt action in the transfer of pension account cases. Resulting in pensioners financial hardship. All concerned are well aware that after struck off the name from one Pension Disbursing Authority’s pensioner’s strength, a pensioner can get his pension only after taking the name of another Pension Disbursing Authority’s pensioner’s strength. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all concerned to take immediate action in all such cases, so that pensioners may get their pension from new transferee PDA without delay.
3. Special attention is drawn towards Nepal domiciled pensioners who wish to transfer their pension accounts from India to Nepal or Nepal to India. As per existing procedure, on receipt of application from the pensioners, transferor PDA (existing PDA) is required to forward all original documents to the new PDA routed through PCDA(Pensions). After the necessary check, the documents are required to be forwarded by this office to transferee PDA (New PDA) along with a corrigendum PPO as stipulated in Para‐3 of Circular No. 206 dated 02.11.2018. It has been noticed that cases are being delayed in initiation at PDA’s end, forwarding of LPC‐cum‐Data Sheet from concerned Record Offices/Head of Offices and pensioners are facing financial hardship due to delay in the process.
Keeping in view the problems of Nepal domiciled pensioners, it has been decided to handle such cases through a dedicated ‘Nepal Cell’ (Audit Section)’ of this office. This Cell will monitor centrally the transfer of pension account cases of pensioners who wish to transfer their pension account from India to Nepal and vice versa. ‘ Nepal Cell (Audit Section) of this office will work as the nodal point where all documents related to transfer of pension account from India to Nepal and vice versa will be received from transferor PDA (Existing PDA) and transmitted to transferee PDA (New PDA) under intimation to concerned Record Offices/Head of Offices along with a copy of Corrigendum PPO reflecting details of changed PDA to enable the updation of the database of this office for a future revision of PPOs as well as issuance/dispatch of corrigendum PPOs to be issued at a later stage.
Revised methodology for Transfer of Pension Accounts from India to Nepal & vice versa and action to be taken on the part of pensioner, PDA and this office is as under:
(a)‐ Pensioner shall submit a simple application in duplicate in enclosed Format (Annexure‐A) to the existing Pension Disbursing Authority for transfer of pension account. Original application will be received by the Pension Disbursing Authority and a Duplicate copy of the application will be returned to the pensioner duly acknowledged by the PDA.
(b)‐ Existing Pension Disbursing Authority (Transferor PDA) will complete Annexure‐‘B’ and Form‐I/IMP‐5(A)/D‐II and forward all documents to the OIC ‘Nepal Cell (Audit section)’ of this office.
(c)‐ ‘Nepal Cell (Audit Section)’ of this office will scrutinize the documents and take necessary action for processing of Corrigendum PPO reflecting details of new PDA.
(d)‐ After the generation of Corrigendum PPO, Nepal Cell(Audit Section) of this office will forward all original documents to transferee PDA (New PDA) through Insured Post.
(e)‐ On receipt of all pension documents as mentioned in Annexure‐‘B’ and Corrigendum PPO, transferee PDA (New PDA) will take the name of the pensioner on their pensioner’s strength and commence the payment of pension immediately. Arrears, if any, will be payable from the next date of pension last paid by the transferor PDA.
(f)‐ Simultaneously, Transferee (new) PDA will complete Annexure‐‘C’ and forward the same to Transferor PDA and OIC Audit‐Nepal Cell of this office along with Form‐II/IMP‐ 5/D‐I and Annexure‐‘D’.
(g)‐ In case, transferee PDA is Bank, an Annexure‐‘D’ will be given by the bank to the pensioner in token of their acceptance for payment of pension. On receipt of said Annexure‐‘D’, the pensioner will submit the same to his/her existing Pension Disbursing Authority where he/she has applied for transfer of his/her pension account.
(h)‐ Nepal domiciled pensioners who are desirous to transfer their pension accounts from India to Nepal or Nepal to India may also send a copy of their transfer application to the OIC Audit Nepal Cell, O/o the PCDA (Pensions), Draupadi Ghat, Allahabad‐ 211014 through Registered Post or this office mail ID cda‐albd[at]nic.in to enable this office to expedite their transfer of pension account and issue necessary instruction to the concern Pension Disbursing Authority.
This circular is available on this office website www.pcdapension.nic.in.
Passbook updation / printing option for MTS/GDS in CBS Post Offices – SB Order 13/2021
SB Order No. 13/2021
No. FS-13/7/2020-FS
Government of India
Ministry of Communications
Department of Posts
(F.S.Division)
Dak Bhawan New Delhi-110001
Dated: 28.06.2021.
To,
All Head of Circles/Regions,
Sub :– Regarding passbook updation/printing option for MTS/GDS in CBS Post Offices.
Sir/Madam,
References have been received from the circles about opening of separate counter for passbook updation/printing in HOs and busier sub post offices to manage heavy workload in CBS counters.
2. In view of the request of the circles and to facilitate depositors in updating of passbook, competent authority has decided to create a separate role (work class) for MTS/GDS in CBS post offices. This will enable them to access Finacle for updation/ printing of entries in passbooks.
3. The following work class has been created in Finacle for MTS/GDS in CBS Post Offices and below mentioned menu will be accessible by this work class : –
i) User work class for MTS/GDS : 008
Sr. No.
Menu
Feature
1
HPBP
To print entries in passbook
2
HACCBAL
To check account details
3
HAFI
To check the last print date for the account by giving account number
4
HPR
To view the passbook details
4. After assessing requirement of opening separate counter in post offices for passbook updation/ printing through MTS/GDS, circles may send details of respective GDS/MTS in ‘User Creation Template” through their CBS CPC to CEPT Chennai. After creation of user IDs of the identified MTS/GDS by CEPT, concerned circle may open separate counter for updation/printing of entries in passbook through passbook printer in HOs/busier sub post offices.
Clarification on withdrawal / closure of accounts under National Savings Schemes
SB Order No. 15/2021
File No. 112-03/2019-SB
Government of India
Ministry of Communications
Department of Posts
(F.S. Division)
Dak Bhawan, New Delhi — 110001
Dated: 29.06.2021
To
All Head of Circles / Regions
Subject : Clarification on withdrawal / closure of accounts under National Savings Schemes – Regarding.
***
As per Rule 12 of Govt. Savings Promotion General Rules, 2018 issued vide GSR No. 1003(E) dated 05.10.2018 circulated vide SB Order No. 13/2019 dated 18.12.2019, at the time of payment of maturity proceeds or partial withdrawal or interest, the depositor shall affix his signature or thumb impression in the presence of the authorised officer who shall verify the identity of the person. This implies that signature by the depositor is to be affixed in the presence of the authorized officials of the Post Office doing the transaction, which requires the presence of the depositor and no payment can be made through messenger.
2. Maharashtra Circle vide email dated 22.06.2021 stated that there is no provision in account closure forms (SB-7A & SB-7B) for messenger and requested to issue necessary guidelines.
3. It is accordingly clarified that
i). There is no provision made for messenger in the forms notified by the Ministry of Finance in GSPR 2018 and in various National Savings Schemes 2019.
ii). As per the provisions under Rule 12 of GSPR 2018, no messenger is allowed for any type of payment viz. maturity proceeds, partial withdrawal or interest.
iii). Even though, there is provision for messenger in withdrawal form (SB-7), withdrawals / closure of accounts through SB-7, SB-7A, SB-7B & SB-7C by messenger shall not be allowed.
4. Further, it is intimated that the issue has already been taken up with Ministry of Finance for relaxing this provision in case of exigencies (i.e. illness / Senior Citizen) and decision from nodal ministry is awaited.
5. This may be circulated to all the Post Offices for information and necessary actions.
6. This is issued with the approval of the Competent Authority.
CGDA clarification on ceiling of basic pay for entitlement of payment of Night Duty Allowance
Office of the Controller General of Defence Accounts
Ulan Batar Road, Palam, Delhi Cantt 1100110
File No. : AT/Army-BR/A/Civ/2366/NDA/Vol-I
Dated: 24th Jun 2021
To,
The All Regional PCoDA/CDA,
Subject: Clarification on ceiling of basic pay for entitlement of payment of Night Duty Allowance (NDA)
Ref: IHQ of MoD (N) letter No. CP(P)/3154 dated 30.03.2021.
Consequent upon the decision taken by the Government on the recommendations made by the 7h Central Pay Commission on the subject of Night Duty allowance, the Department of Personnel & Training has issued instructions vide their OM No. A-27016/02/2017-Estt. (AL) dated 13th July 2020 in supersession of DoP&T OM No 12012/4/86-Estt(Allowance) dated 04.10.1989 and No. 15020/2/92-Estt (Allowances) dated 04.04.1994.
2. Para 1(iv) of the DoPT OM dated 13.07.2020 states that the ceiling of basic pay for entitlement of Night Duty Allowance shall be Rs. 43600/- per month.
3. IHQ of MoD has raised a point of doubt whether payment of Night Duty Allowance is entitled only to such of the central government staff whose basic pay is upto Rs 43600/- OR those getting higher basic pay will also be entitled for payment of night duty allowance by restricting the amount to ceiling limit of Rs. 43600/-.
4. In view of above, it is requested to intimate the practice being followed in the offices under your audit jurisdiction in payment of Night Duty Allowance (NDA).
5. A reply in this regard may be furnished to HQrs office by 29.06.2021 positively through e-mail.
2. The Tables enclosed are of two categories as per the existing practice. As hitherto, the first Table of Benefits for the savings fund of the scheme is based on the subscription of Rs.10 p.m. from 1.1.1982 to 31.12.1989 and Rs.15 p.m. w.e.f. 1.1.1990 onwards. The second Table of Benefits for savings fund is based on a subscription of Rs.10 p.m. for those employees who had opted out of the revised rate of subscription w.e.f. 1.1.1990.
3. In their application to the employees belonging to Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued under Article 148(5) of the Constitution and after consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India.
4. Hindi version of these orders is attached.
(B. K. Manthan)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India
To
1. All Ministries/Department of the Central Government as per standard list.
2. Copy with spare copies for information and necessary action to C&AG, UPSC, all State Government etc. as per standard list.
Grant of two increments to DS/Sr.PPS on promotion from US/PPS in CSS/CSSS
F. No. 18/03/2008-CS.I(P)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training
Lok Nayak Bhavan, New Delhi,
Dated the 22nd June, 2021
OFFICE MEMORANDUM
Sub : Grant of two increments to DS/Sr.PPS on promotion from US/PPS in CSS/CSSS – Regarding.
Reference is invited to this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 21.01.2019 on the subject mentioned above. Vide the said O.M. it was informed that the subject matter is under examination and decision so taken will be intimated to alt the cadre units In due course.
2. The matter has since been examined in this Department in consultation with Department of Expenditure.
3. Approval of the Competent Authority is hereby conveyed for continuation of the benefit of grant of two increments to DS/Sr.PPS on promotion from US/PPS in the 7th CPC context.
4. All the participating cadres of CSS/CSSS are accordingly requested to take necessary action in the matter.
5. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure conveyed vide their ID No. 3-5/2018-E III A dated 17.05.2021.
(George D.Toppo)
Under Secretary to the Government of India
Tel: 24642705
Revision of rate of VDA from April 2021 for contract workers engaged in various employment activities
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
RAILWAY BOARD
RBE No. 37/2021
No. 2020/E (LL)/AT/MW/2
New Delhi dated: 18.06.2021
The General Managers, Zonal Railways, Production
Units Metro Railway, Kolkata, CORE/Prayagraj
The General Managers,(Construction), All Indian Railways
The Director-General, RDSO, Lucknow, The DG/Railway Staff College,
Vadodara The Directors, IRICEN, IRIEEN, IRISET, IRIMEE, IRITM
The CAO, COFMOW, Tilak Bridge, New Delhi
The CAO, Rail Coach Factory / Raebareli, The CAO, Rail Wheel Plant, Bela
Sub: Revision of rate of Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) for contract workers engaged in various employment/activities w.e.f, 01.04.2021
A copy each of Orders No. (i) 1/16(1)/2021-LS-II, (ii) 1/16(2)/2021-LS-II, (iii) 1/20(3)/2021-LS-II, (iv) No.1/ 16(4)/2021-LS-II (v) No.1/ 16(5)/2021-LS.II (vi) 1/16(6)/2020-LS-II and (vii) 1/16(7)/2021-LS-II dated 23.04.2021 revising the rates of variable dearness allowance for contract workers engaged in (i) Agriculture (ii) Gypsum Mines, Barytes Mines, Bauxite Mines, Manganese Mines, China Clay Mines, Kyanite Mines, Copper Mines, Clay Mines, Magnesite Mines, White Clay Mines, Stone Mines, Steatite Mines (including the mines producing Soap Stones and Talc), Ochre Mines, Asbestos Mines, Fire Clay Mines, Chromite Mines, Quratzite Mines, Quarts Mines, Silica Mines, Graphite Mines, Felspar Mines, Laterite Mines, Dolomite Mines, Red Oxide Mines, Wolfram Mines Iron Mines Ore Mines, Granite Mines, Rock Phosphate Mines, Hematite Mines Marble and Calcite Mines, Uranium Mines, Mica Mines, Lignite Mines, Gracel Mines, Slate Mines and Magnetite Mines (iii) Construction or Maintenance of Roads or runways or in Building Operations including Laying Down Underground electric, wireless, Radio, Television, Telephone, Telegraph and Overseas Communication Cables and Similar other Underground cabling work, Electric lines, Water supply lines and Sewerage Pipe Lines (iv) Loading and unloading in (i) Goods sheds, parcel offices of Railways, (ii) other goods-sheds, godowns, warehouses and other similar employments; (iii) Docks and Ports; And (iv) Passengers goods and Cargo Carried out at Airports (Both International and Domestic) (v) Employment of Sweeping and cleaning excluding activities prohibited under the Employment of Manual Scavengers and Construction of Dry Latrines (Prohibition) Act, 1993 (vi) Watch and Ward (With arms and without arms) and (vii) Stone Mines are enclosed. The rates are applicable w.e.f. 01.04.2021.
2. Railways, being Principal Employer are required to ensure that the contractors are complying with the provisions of the Contract Labour (R&A) Act, 1970 and Minimum wages Act, 1948 strictly and arranging prescribed minimum wages to the contract labourers.
3. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways.
Please acknowledge receipt.
4. The original letters mentioned above may be downloaded from the official website of Ministry of labour & Employment www.clc.gov.in.
D.A.: As above (8) pages
sd/-
(Praveen Kumar)
Director Estt. (LL)
Railway Board
No Memorandum issued on Resumption of Dearness Allowance – Finance Ministry responds
The Finance Ministry clarified on Saturday that it has not passed any order on resumption of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for Central Government Employees and Pensioners.
In Twitter the official PIB Fact Check tweeted that “A document is doing rounds on social media claiming that Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for Central government employees and pensioners will be resumed from July 2021. This claim is #Fake. No such announcement has been made by the Government of India.”
A document is doing rounds on social media claiming that Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for Central government employees and pensioners will be resumed from July 2021 #PIBFactCheck: This claim is #Fake. No such announcement has been made by the Government of India. pic.twitter.com/9fsPITQClB
The Ministry of Finance also issued a clarification in a twitter that , “A document is doing rounds on social media claiming resumption of DA to Central Government employees & Dearness Relief to Central Government pensioners from July 2021. ???? ?? ?? #????. ?? ???? ?? ??? ???? ?????? ?? ???.”
A document is doing rounds on social media claiming resumption of DA to Central Government employees & Dearness Relief to Central Government pensioners from July 2021. ???? ?? ?? #????. ?? ???? ?? ??? ???? ?????? ?? ???. pic.twitter.com/HMcQVj81Sf
Central government employees get a Dearness Allowance of 17 per cent. In March 2020, the Union Cabinet had hiked the Dearness Allowance by 4 per cent to 21 per cent. However, in April 2020, the government halted the hikes of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for government employees and pensioners, respectively, due to the financial situation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
NCJCM demands to release the frozen DA / DR with effect from 1.1.2020 before 15th July 2021 – Decision taken 48th Meeting of the NCJCM held 26.06.2021 – Meeting Minutes
No.NC-JCM-2021/NC Meeting
Dated: June 26, 2021
All Member of the National Council
(Staff Side) – JCM
Dear Comrades,
Decision taken in the Staff Side meeting held on 25/06/2021
The Staff Side meeting of the National Council JCM was held on 25/06/2021 to discuss about the issues to be raised in the introductory remarks during the National Council – JCM meeting on 26/06/2021. After finalizing the points to be raised in the meeting and also after discussion on the 29 Agenda Points the following decision were taken unanimously:-
1. To protest against the arbitrary decision taken by the Government to Corporatize the 41 Ordnance Factories and to submit a protest letter to the Cabinet Secretary requesting him to place the views of the Staff Side on behalf of the 32 lakhs Central Government employees before the Hon’ble Prime Minister so as to reconsider and withdraw the decision considering the impact of the Government decision on National Security and Defence preperdness and also the future existence of the 41 Ordnance Factories and its workforce.
2. Solidarity and support action to be observed by the NJCA on the day the Ordnance Factories Employees Federation serve strike notice to the Government and also various action programmes from the date of commencement of strike.
3. In case the Government fails to issue Government orders for releasing the frozen DA / DR with effect from 1/1/2020 before 15th of July 2021 then protest programme will be observed throughout the country by the Constituent Organizations. Date of the programme will be decided later on by the NJCA.
The following Staff Side members attended the meeting of the NC JCM physically on 26/06/2021
1. Shri Shiva Gopal Mishra (Secretary)
2. Shri M Raghavaiah, (Leader)
3. Shri Guman Singh, (Member)
4. Shri J.R. Bhosle, (Member)
5. Shri C.Srikumar, (Member)
6. Shri R.N.Parashar, (Member)
The other Staff Side members participated in the meeting virtually. The Secretary DOPT in his welcome speech stated the following:-
As you are aware the very foundation of the JCM is based on cooperation and harmonious relations between the two sides, and the dialogue between the two sides must be a continuous and ongoing process. In fact, it is for this reason that DoPT has issued directions to all Ministries/Departments to hold the meetings of Departmental and Office Councils once in every four months period. Ministries/Departments have also been advised to revive the Departmental or Office Council, in case these are not functioning effectively. I am happy to inform that not with standing the challenging situation arising out of the Covid-19 Pandemic, the Standing Committee of JCM met on 26.02.2021 under my Chairmanship and the proceedings were held in a very cordial and harmonious way, in keeping with the JCM spirit.
During the Covid-19 Pandemic, DoPT has played a proactive part and has exempted Government servants from marking their biometrics attendance and has also allowed Work from Home. DoPT also issued directions on 7.6.2021 providing for various type of leave to Staff who could not attend duties on account of Lock-down or other difficulties which arose with the staff. In a series of reliefs, special dispensation has been extended to PwDs and pregnant women. We also continue to facilitate on the one hand the smooth working of govt. offices with curtailed attendance, and on the other, to ensure the safety and welfare of the employees.
I once again welcome all participants and also thank the Staff Side for their cooperation, in finding amicable resolution to various staff related problems. The Staff Side is always welcome to come up with new initiatives or ideas for good governance. I assure you of our fullest cooperation in resolving issues, pertaining to the welfare of the employees, in a just and fair manner, which are also economically viable.
Thereafter presiding over the meeting Cabinet Secretary made the following remarks
As you are aware, this meeting was scheduled to be held in May, 2021 Due to increase in COVID-19 cases, it has been delayed. As we know the JCM is an old & established platform, in existence since 1966, for a constructive dialogue between the representatives of the Staff Side and the Official Side for peaceful resolution of all disputes between the Government as employer and the employees. The JCM functions with the object of further increasing the efficiency of the public service combined with the wellbeing of those employed and has contributed immensely over the years in maintaining harmonious relations between the two sides.
The last meeting of the National Council of JCM was held in April 2019, and due to various exigencies, it has been held after a gap of two years. However, I understand that several informal meetings to discuss the progress of various demands of the Staff Side have been held in DoPT in the meanwhile, and Secretary Personnel) has also held a meeting of the Standing Council of JCM in February, 2021.
Before we start discussing the formal agenda of today’s meeting, it is necessary to understand the context in which today’s meeting is being held. The global COVID-19 Pandemic, which began early last year, has continued to create distress across the world, and our country too has also faced a lot of difficulties. Govt. of India has played a pro-active role in mitigating the hardships faced by the citizens due to this Pandemic, and the role played by the Central Govt employees, especially the frontline workers such as the health care personnel, the essential service providers as also the law and order machinery, has been truly commendable. It is a matter of great sadness that several employees have also lost their lives to COVID-19, for which I express my deepest condolences. Needless to say, COVID-appropriate behavior needs to be continued until the threat of the Pandemic subsides. Government is well aware of the hardships faced by the Government Servants due to the pandemic, and has adopted various welfare measures, such as free vaccination for all, full salaries to those who could not attend duty due to Lock Down or Quarantine, facility to work from home, notification of CGHS rates for treatment of COVID-19, full wages to daily wage workers, CGHS wellness Centres allowed to be used for running vaccination programmes etc.
In today’s meeting, we are going to deliberate on 29 Agenda Items, and I sincerely hope that most of the agenda items would be resolved. I am of the view that the meeting of the National Council of JCM, and that of the different Departmental Councils under the JCM should be held regularly, for which instructions have already been issued. Similarly, I would encourage the Staff Side to come up with innovative ideas to increase the efficiency of the Central Govt. Before I conclude, I would like to place on record my appreciation for the positive and constructive approach shown by the Staff Side, and I hope that we continue to function in the same spirit in future. I would also like to request the Departmental Secretaries to take personal interest in coming up with solutions in their respective domains to the various demands raised by the Staff Side. I also hope that today’s meeting is conducted in an exemplary passion as envisaged in the spirit of the JCM mechanism.
After the introductory remarks of the Chairman the following Important issues were raised on behalf of the Staff Side by the Leader, Secretary and other Staff side Members
1. Staff Side extend a warm welcome to the Cabinet Secretary Chairman of the National Council – JCM and all senior officers from various Ministries / Departments. I am thankful to the Chairman for convening this meeting inspite of the pandemic situation in the country. Many of our Staff Side Members wanted to attend the meeting physically however due to the various restrictions only six Staff Side Members were allow to attend the meeting physically and other are attending virtually. We are confident that all the burning issues agitating the minds of the employees and pensioners will be resolved through mutual understanding and cooperation.
2. At the outset the Staff Side would like to register their protest against the arbitrary and one sided decision taken by the Government in violation of all the previous written agreements and assurances given in the past by the Government. The Federations of the Defence Civilians employees served a strike Notice against the Government decision to corporatize the 41 Ordnance Factories in to 7 Corporations. Due to the intervention of the CLC (C) a settlement was reached on 9th October 2020 and accordingly the Federation deferred the Indefinite Strike. However the Ministry of Defence violated the conciliation settlement and proceeded with its decision to corporatize the Ordnance Factories in to 7 Corporation. Even the CLC by violating all the norms concluded the conciliation proceedings on 15/06/2021 in the actions of the three major Federations who served the strike notice. On 16/06/2021 the Cabinet without even giving an opportunity to the Federations to be heard by the Empowered Group of Ministers has approved to slice Ordnance Factories in to 7 Corporations. The employees are agitated and the Federations have decide to revive their indefinite strike. We the Staff Side request the Government through the Cabinet Secretary to withdrawn the decision to corporatize the ordnance factories on hold and start negotiations with the recognized Federations of Ministry of Defence for improvement of the functioning of Ordnance Factories.
3. All Central Government employees and pensioners are anxiously waiting for the outcome of this meeting since the DA due to employees and DR due to the Pensioners are freezed from 1/1/2020 for 18 months. The Central Government employees and pensioners have contributed more than Rs. 40,000/ Crores by not receiving the DA/DR due for them. Now since the economy is getting revived according to the Government itself, Central Government employees and pensioners may be given DA and DR retrospectively with arrears. Hope Government will take a positive decision in this regard.
4. It has become ritual for the DOPT for issuing a letter to all the Ministries to hold the meeting of the Departmental Council- JCM. However in most of the Departments neither the JCM is functioning nor are meetings taking place in the Ministry of Defence the last JCM meeting of the Departmental Council was held during November 2016. In the 47th meeting of the National Council – JCM the Defence Secretary has assured that he will call the Departmental Council – JCM meeting however so far no meetings of the JCM has been convened. IN ISRO also the Departmental Council (JCM) is not yet constituted. Therefore Cabinet Secretary may direct all the Secretaries to hold the meetings of the Departmental Council minimum thrice in a year in accordance with the JCM Scheme.
5. A decision was taken in the last meeting to enhance the Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme in the GPF Scheme. It is regretted to inform the Chairman that so far no orders have been issued on the subject. Long back the scheme was revised under the EPF Scheme. The same benefit is not being extended to GPF subscribers. Government orders may please be issued in this regard at the earliest.
6. Some of the important Agenda points which the Staff Side has forwarded for inclusion in this meeting has not been included and we were not informed about the reasons for not including these agenda points. It is requested that these two points may please be included for today’s discussion.
a. Regularization of the legal strike period in the Industrial Establishments.
b. Withdrawal of the provisions of the FR 56(J) / (i) and Rule 48 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 since it is being largely misused.
7. Department of Pension vide its OM dated 19/07/2017 issued a clarification stating to grant family pension to a divorce daughter in such cases where the divorce proceedings had been filed in a competent Court during the life time of the employee / pensioner or his / her spouse but divorce took place after their death. It has been noticed that in some cases pensioner/ family pensioner who have been settled in remote areas and the divorcee daughter has come back to live with her old age parents (especially mother) and do not file the Divorce petition during the lifetime of the pensioner/Spouse due to financial constraints or no physical support to attend the court hearings in the main cities. They filed the cases after the death of the pensioner/family pensioner. These type of cases may also be considered sympathetically and also be allowed family pension if The date of the filing of divorce cases is after the death of parents but she is actually living with her parent before their death and that date is also mentioned in the divorced judgment.
8. Many items like Pharmacist re-designation etc were discussed in the last meeting of the Standing Committee of National Council – JCM held on 26/02/2021 However the decision taken in the meeting are not being implemented yet by issuing necessary government orders. It is requested that the issues discussed in the Standing Committee meeting may be settled without further delay.
9. As per DOPT Instructions the 3 years time limit has been withdrawn for consideration of compassionate Appointment cases. However in the Ministry of Defence in Navy cases are considered by for Compassionate Appointment in 3 Board meetings afterwards the applicants are being informed that their cases is closed and that there cases may be considered by the future Board. A clarification in this regard may please be issued.
10. The Supreme Court has upheld that the employees who have participated in the Selection Examination for direct appointment during the year 2003, but appointed after 1/1/2004 now also be given the brought of Old Pension Scheme. This benefit may please be extended to all similarly placed employees (Ref:- SLP No.173/21 dated 4/2/2021 in the case of Devindra Singh Bran Vs Union of India).
11. The Staff Side is all along demanding for withdrawal of NPS and to restore OPS to the employees recruited on or after 1/1/2004. In the meantime we have been demanding to evolve a mechanism by which the NPS employees get 50% of their last basic pay as minimum ensured pension. However the Government has not taken any decision on this. This needs to be considered sensitively by the Government.
12. Another burning issue which needs immediate settlement is the removal of basic pay ceiling limit for payment of NDA. Any employee who is deputed to work during night shift is entitled for NDA and on the plea of basic pay ceiling employees cannot be discriminated. Therefore DOPT is requested to issue necessary amendment in the orders issued by them.
After the above important issue raised by the Staff Side Cabinet Secretary directed the concerned officers to take note of the issues raised by the Staff Side and take steps to resolve the same and if required after having further discussions / consultations with the Staff Side.
Decisions taken on the Agenda points
Out of 29 Agenda Points 21 points were discussed in the meeting. Due to paucity of time it was decided that the remaining 9 agenda points pertaining to DOPT would be discussed by the Secretary (P) DOPT with the Staff Side within a fortnight. Decision taken on the 21 Agenda points are given below:-
1. Reimbursement of expenses on indoor treatment to Pensioners living in Non CGHS towns.
Decision:-the demand of the Staff Side for reimbursement of the expenditure incurred for out patient treatment of the pensioners staying in remote localities and introduction of Insurance Scheme would be considered by the Health ministry.
2. Grant of Medical Advance to the Central Govt. Employees.
Decision:- A Clarification will be issued by the Ministry of Health that in the cases of Medical treatment other then treatment covered under package rates should also be given 90% of the estimates as Medical Advance subject to CGHS rates.
3. Reimbursement of additional charges paid on account of overstay in the hospitals
Decision:-The demand of the staff side for Reimbursement of Additional Charges paid on account of over stay in the hospitals by CS (MA) beneficiaries would be considered by Ministry of Health.
4. Hospital Patient Care Allowance for C.G. Employees working in Hospitals.
Decision:-Health Ministry is considering a proposal to include various leftout categories for payment of HPCA. The Staff Side requested that other then the categories already forwarded by the Staff Side the categories of AC Maintenance Staff , Electrician, and civil engineering categories also may be included for HPCA. The Staff Side Members of Defence Ministry complained that in spite of Health Ministry orders Defence Peramedical Staff of Ordnance Factories and other Directorates are not being paid HPCA. Cabinet Secretary directed that Defence Ministry may issue instructions to implement the Government orders to the Defence Employees.
5. Grant of Recognition to all employees organisations fairly and transparently- restore function of departmental and office councils in terms of the JCM scheme.
Decision:- Secretary DOPT Clarified that instructions have been issued to all Ministries / Departments to hold regular meetings of the Departmental Council JCM and to settle the Recognisation cases in a time bound manner.
6. Settlement of the following COVID-19 related issues.
Decision:-
a). Staff Side insisted that Central Government employees including Railways and Defence, Postal etc should be declared as frontline warriors.
b). Staff Side Demand for granting quarantine leave to COVID-19 positive tested employees, SCL to employees who were not able to attend duty due to non availability of Public Transport, Curfew etc. would be considered by DOPT.
c). Grant of Ex-gratia payment / compensation of Rs.20 lakhs to the family of all those employees who died of COVID-19 infection and Grant of out of turn compassionate appointment to the dependents of the employees who died of COVID-19 infection over and above the 5% ceiling limit, would be considered by DOPT
d). Ministry of Health to consider Payment of full reimbursement of Covid-19 medical treatment charges.
7. Evolve a health insurance scheme for all employees and pensioners to cover up all pensioners, who are outside the ambit of CGHS.
Decision:-The Matter would be considered by Health Ministry
8. Take steps to revive all PSUs which are either closed down or privatized, which are capable of manufacturing vaccine in the background of the acute shortage as also the oxygen units.
Decision:- Health Ministry is taking steps to revive the PSU vaccine manufacturing Units.
9. GPF for those who have been recruited on or after 1.1.2004.
Decision:-Demand of the Staff Side would be reconsidered.
10. Introduction of productivity linked bonus in place of Adhoc Bonus: raising the minimum ceiling for the purpose of payment of Bonus to 18000/- in accordance with 7th CPC.
Decision:- Decision would be taken depending upon the amendment in the Bonus Act by Labour Ministry.
11. Revision of Central Govt. Employees Group Insurance Scheme.
Decision:- The matter would be further discussed with the Staff Side.
12. Withdrawal of orders of DA/ DR freeze.
Decision:- Cabinet Secretary stated that Department of Expenditure would process the matter for getting the Cabinet Approval for restoring the frozen DA / DR from 1/7/2021. The Staff Side demanded that they are eligible for arrears from 1/1/2020 and the mode of payment can be discussed separately with the Staff Side. The Staff Side also demanded to extend the benefit to those employees who retired / expired between 1/1/2020 and 30/06/2021.
13. Central Government Employees may be granted one more option to switch over to 7th CPC from a date subsequent to 25th of July 2016.
Decision:-Additional Secretary Expenditure would discuss the matter with the Staff Side separately.
14. Settle All 7th CPC Anomalies represented by the Staff Side.
Decision:- A meeting of the National Anomaly Committee would be convened to discuss the issues.
15. Grant of Compassionate Allowance to the widow of Employees dismissed/ removed from service.
Decision:- The matter is under examination in the Department of Pension.
16. Withdrawal of New Pension Scheme (NPS) and restoration of Defined Pension Scheme under CCS(Pension) Rule 1972 to the employees who are recruited on or after 1.1.2004 at par with Armed Forces Personnel
Decision:- The demand of the Staff Side for minimum pension would be considered separately.
17. Exempt transport / Running allowance from income tax.
Decision:-Demand of the Staff Side would be brought to the notice of Department of Revenue.
18. Exemption from payment of income tax to Pensioners who have attained age of 80 years or more.
Decision:- Demand of the Staff Side would be brought to the notice of Department of Revenue.
19. To formulate a policy for direct appointment of Trained Trade Apprentices of Central Government Industrial Establishments like Railways, Defence etc. as per the amended provisions of Section-22 of Apprentice Act 1961.
Decision:- Railway Ministry and Defence Ministry to discuss the matter with the Staff Side.
20. Withdraw the decision to Corporatize the Railway Production Units and Ordnance Factories.
Decision:-Cabinet Secretary directed that the Ministry of Railway and Defence should discuss the matter with their Staff Side to evolve a solution. Secretary Staff Side handed over a copy of the Staff Side letter dated 25/06/2021 to the Cabinet Secretary demanding withdrawal of the decision taken by the Government to Corporatize the Ordnance Factories (copy of the letter is enclosed).
21. Grant of Gazetted Status to Senior Engineer of Ministry of Railway. Decision:- The matter would be discussed by the CRB with the Staff Side of Railways.
Night Duty Allowance
Removal of ceiling of NDA i.e. Rs.43,600 was discussed at length and Cabinet Secretary directed Secretary (DoP&T) to discuss the issue with the Chairman Railway Board, Secretary (Deptt. of Exp.) and finalise it soon.
The following 8 Agenda Points will be separately discussed with the Secretary DOPT.
1. J.C.M. Coverage
2. Litigation cases on service matters
3. Eradication of injustice to Casual, Contract and Outsourced workers: providing them the right to form a union in terms of Article 19.1(c) of the Constitution of India: Regularisation of all casual, contingent and outsourced workers.
4. Fill up all vacant posts in all grades.
5. Grant of 5 (five) effective upgradations to all Group B & C employees in entire service life.
6. Undertake cadre review of all Groups –B&C Cadres in every five years before the cadre review of Group A Cadres.
7. Grant of Risk Allowance to the Employees involved in permanent and perennial recognized Risk Operations
