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Constitution of 8th Pay Commission in Budget 2025 ? : Rajya Sabha QA

Constitution of 8th Pay Commission in Budget 2025 ? : Rajya Sabha QA

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE

RAJYA SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION No. 870
TO BE ANSWERED ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2024
12 AGRAHAYANA, 1946 (SAKA)

870: SHRI JAVED ALI KHAN
SHRI RAMJI LAL SUMAN

Will the Minister of Finance be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is actively considering to announce Constitution of Eighth Central Pay Commission for Central Government employees during the next Budget in February, 2025 in view of unprecedented inflationary trends;

(b) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(c) whether fiscal condition of Union Government is not allowing the increase in pay of Central Government employees; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
(SHRI PANKAJ CHAUDHARY)

(a) to (b): No such proposal is under consideration with the Government for constitution of Eighth Central Pay Commission for the Central Government employees, at present.

(c) to (d): Do not arise.

Also Read: 8th Pay Commission Latest News


भारत सरकार
वित्त मंत्रालय
व्यय विभाग
राज्य सभा
लिखित प्रश्न संखया – 870
मंगलवार; 03 दिसंबर, 2024/72 अग्रह्ययण, 71946 /शक)

आठवें केन्द्रीय वेतन आयोग का गठन

870 श्री जावेद अली खान:
श्री रामजी लाल सुमन:

क्या वित्‍त मंत्री यह बताने की कृपा करेंगे कि:

(क) क्‍या सरकार मुद्रास्फीति की अप्रत्याशित प्रवृत्तियों को देखते हुए फरवरी, 2025 में अगले बजट के दौरान केन्द्रीय सरकार के कर्मचारियों के लिए आठवें केन्द्रीय वेतन आयोग के गठन की घोषणा करने पर सक्रिय रूप से विचार कर रही है;

(ख) यदि हां, तो तत्संबंधी ब्यौरा क्या है और यदि नहीं, तो इसके क्या कारण हैं;

(ग) क्या केन्द्र सरकार की राजकोषीय स्थिति केन्द्रीय सरकार के कर्मचारियों के वेतन में वृद्धि की अनुमति नहीं दे रही है; और

(घ) यदि हां, तो तत्संबंधी ब्यौरा क्‍या है?

उत्तर
वित्त राज्य मंत्री (श्री पंकज चौधरी)

(क) से (ख): वर्तमान में सरकार के पास केंद्र सरकार के कर्मचारियों के लिए आठवें केन्द्रीय वेतन आयोग के गठन का कोई प्रस्ताव विचाराधीन नहीं है।

(ग) से (घ): प्रश्न नहीं उठता।

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CGEGIS Tables of Benefits from Oct 2024 to Dec 2024

CGEGIS Tables of Benefits from Oct 2024 to Dec 2024

No. 7(1)/EV/2023
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Expenditure
E-V Branch

New Delhi, the 25th November, 2024

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Central Government Employees Group Insurance Scheme-1980 – Tables of Benefits for the savings fund for the period from 01.10.2024 to 31.12.2024.

The Tables of Benefits for Savings Fund to the beneficiaries under the Central Government Employees Group Insurance Scheme-1980, which are being issued on a quarterly basis from 01.01.2017 onwards, as brought out in this Ministry’s OM of even number dated 17.03.2017, for the quarter from 01.10.2024 to 31.12.2024, as worked out by IRDA based on the interest rate of 7.1% per annum (compounded quarterly) as notified by the Department of Economic Affairs as per their Resolution No. 5(3)-B(PD)/2023 dated 03.10.2024, are enclosed.

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 so far as the persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department are concerned, these Orders are issued in consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution of India.

4. Hindi version of these orders is attached.

(Gulveena Badhan)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

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Staggered Work Hours for Government Offices in Delhi-NCR – Implementing GRAP Stage IV Actions

Staggered Work Hours for Government Offices in Delhi-NCR – Implementing GRAP Stage IV Actions

F. No. 43020/21/2024-PP.A-III
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Department of Personnel & Training

North Block, New Delhi – 110001
Dated: 21st November, 2024

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Implementation of Actions under stage-IV (`Severe+’ Air Quality) of revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR steps to be taken-reg.

In view of the severe+ air pollution levels in Delhi, the various Ministries/Departments/Organizations (MDOs) of Central Government are, hereby, advised to adopt the following measures in respect of Offices located in Delhi/NCR, as part of the Actions envisaged by the Commission for Air Quality Management under GRAP, till GRAP-IV is in force:

i. The officers/ staff shall follow staggered timing, as indicated below.-

(a) 9.00 AM to 530 PM
(b) 10.00 AM to 630 PM

ii: The officers/ staff using personal vehicles should be encouraged to pool vehicles and to use public transport to minimize the vehicular pollution.

2. These measures may be adopted by Ministries/Departments/Organizations as per their functional requirements ensuring that it should not have an adverse impact on efficiency and productivity in any manner.

3. This issues with the approval of competent authority.

(A K Gopal)
Under Secretary to the Government of India

To
All Secretaries of Ministries/Departments (As per standard list)

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PAN 2.0 : Do I need to change my PAN card under the PAN 2.0? FAQs answered!

PAN 2.0 : Do I need to change my PAN card under the PAN 2.0? FAQs answered!

PAN 2.0 Project is a one-stop platform to comprehensively address issues/matters related to PAN and TAN, including application, updates, corrections, Aadhaar-PAN linking, re-issuance requests, and even online PAN validation

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the Income Tax Department’s Permanent Account Number (PAN) 2.0 Project. This project aims to streamline and modernise the process of issuing and managing PAN and TAN, making it more user-friendly and efficient. With existing PAN database of 78 crore PANs and 73.28 lakh TANs, the project addresses the requirements of taxpayers, focusing on consolidation of multiple platforms/portals and efficient services to PAN/ TAN holders.

Currently, PAN-related services are spread across three different platforms: the e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL Portal, and Protean e-Gov Portal. With the implementation of PAN 2.0, all these services will be integrated into a single, unified portal. This one-stop platform will handle comprehensively issues/matters related to PAN and TAN, including application, updates, corrections, Aadhaar-PAN linking, re-issuance requests, and even online PAN validation. By doing so, the Income Tax Department endeavours to simplify processes, eliminate delays, and improve grievance redressal mechanisms.

The PAN 2.0 Project is also a significant step toward aligning with the Digital India initiative. It focuses on eco-friendly, paperless processes while establishing PAN as a common identifier for all digital systems of specified Government agencies.

Key features of PAN 2.0:

  • A single portal for all PAN/TAN-related services to simplify access for users.
  • Eco-friendly paperless less processes to reduce paperwork.
  • PAN will be issued free of cost, with quicker processing times.
  • Personal and demographic data will be protected through enhanced security measures, including a PAN Data Vault.
  • A dedicated call centre and helpdesk to address user queries and issues.

This upgrade is designed to enhance the overall experience for taxpayers by ensuring faster service delivery, effective grievance redressal, and better protection of sensitive data. The project will also make it easier for users to apply for PAN/TAN online, update their details, and validate PAN information digitally. By consolidating and re-engineering these processes, the Income Tax Department has taken a significant move towards creating a seamless, transparent, and inclusive system for taxpayers.

For more details, please see Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) below:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) ON PAN 2.0 PROJECT

What is PAN 2.0?

PAN 2.0 Project is an e-Governance project of ITD for re-engineering the business processes of taxpayer registration services. The objective of the project is to enhance the quality of PAN services through adoption of latest technology. Under this project ITD is consolidating all processes related to PAN allotment/updation and corrections. The TAN related services are also merged with this project. Besides, PAN authentication/validation through online PAN validation service will be provided to user agencies such as financial institutions, banks, government agencies, central and state government departments etc.

How PAN 2.0 will be different from existing setup?

i. Integration of Platforms: Presently, the PAN related services are hosted on three different portals (e-Filing Portal, UTIITSL Portal and Protean e-Gov Portal). In the PAN 2.0 Project, all PAN/TAN related services will be hosted on a single unified portal of ITD. The said Portal would host all end-to-end services related to PAN and TAN like allotment, updation, correction, Online PAN Validation (OPV), Know your AO, AADHAAR-PAN linking, verify your PAN, request for e-PAN, request for re-print of PAN card etc.

ii. Comprehensive use of technology for paperless processes: Complete online paperless process as against prevailing mode

iii. Taxpayer facilitation: Allotment/updation/correction of PAN will be done free of cost and e-PAN will be sent to the registered mail id. For physical PAN card, the applicant has to make a request along with the prescribed fee of Rs 50 (domestic). For delivery of card outside India, Rs. 15 + India post charges at actuals will be charged to the applicant.

i. Whether existing PAN CARD Holders will be required to apply for new PAN under the upgraded system?
ii. Do you need to change your PAN number?

No. The existing PAN card holders are not required to apply for new PAN under the upgraded system (PAN 2.0).

Do people have an option to get corrections done on PAN, like name, spellings, address change etc?

Yes. If existing PAN holders want to make any correction/updation of their existing PAN details such as email, mobile or address or demographic details such as name, date of birth etc., they can do so at free of cost after the PAN 2.0 Project commences.  Till the time the PAN 2.0 project is rolled-out, the PAN holders can avail the Aadhaar based online facility for updation/correction of email, mobile and address  free of cost by visiting the below URLs:
i.https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserAddressUpdate.html
ii https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN_ONLINE/homeaddresschange
 
In any other cases of updation/correction of PAN details, the holders can do so using the existing process either by visiting physical centres or applying online on payment basis.

Do I need to change my PAN card under the PAN 2.0?

No. The PAN card will not be changed unless the PAN holders want any updation/correction. The existing valid PAN cards will continue to be valid under PAN 2.0.

i. A lot of people have not changed their addresses and are continuing with old address.

ii. How will the new PAN be delivered?
By when will the new PAN Card get delivered?

No new PAN card will be delivered unless the PAN holder requests for it owing to any updation/correction in their existing PAN. The PAN holders who want to update old address, they can do so free of cost using Aadhaar based online facility by visiting the below URLs:
https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN_ONLINE/homeaddresschange
https://www.onlineservices.nsdl.com/paam/endUserAddressUpdate.html
Accordingly, the address will be updated in the PAN database.

i. If new PAN cards are QR code enabled, will older ones continue to function as it is?

ii. What will QR code help us with?

i. The QR code is not a new feature, and it has been incorporated in the PAN cards since 2017-18. The same will be continued under PAN 2.0 project with enhancements (dynamic QR code which will display latest data present in PAN database). PAN holders having an old PAN Card without QR code have an option to apply for a new card with QR code in existing PAN 1.0 eco-system as well as in the PAN 2.0.

ii. The QR code helps in validating the PAN and PAN details.

iii. Presently, a specific QR reader application is available for verification of QR code details. On reading through the reader application, complete details, i.e., photo, signature, Name, Father’s Name / Mother’s Name and Date of Birth is displayed.

What is – the “Common Business identifier for all business-related activities in specified sectors”?

In the Union Budget 2023, it was announced that for the business establishments required to have a PAN, the PAN will be used as the common identifier for all digital systems of specified government agencies.

Whether Common Business identifier will replace the existing unique taxpayer identification number i.e. PAN?

No. PAN itself will be used as a Common Business identifier.

What does the “Unified Portal” mean?

Presently, the PAN related services are hosted on three different portals. In the PAN 2.0 Project, all PAN/TAN related services will be hosted on a single unified portal of ITD. The said Portal would host all end-to-end services related to PAN and TAN like allotment, updation, correction, Online PAN Validation (OPV), Know your AO, AADHAAR-PAN linking, verify your PAN, request for e-PAN, request for re-print of PAN card etc., thereby further simplifying the processes, and avoiding delay in PAN services delivery, delay in redressal of grievances etc. caused by the presence of various modes of receipt of applications (online eKYC/online paper mode/offline).

For people holding more than one pan, how will you identify and weed  out the extra PAN ?

As per the provisions of Income-tax Act, 1961, no person can hold more than one PAN. In case a person holds more than one PAN, he/she is obliged to bring it to notice of Jurisdictional Assessing officer and get the additional PAN deleted/de-activated.

In the PAN 2.0, with the improved systems logic for identification of potential duplicate requests for PAN and centralized and enhanced mechanism for resolving the duplicates would minimize the instances of one person holding more than one PAN.

#PAN2.0 #PANCARD

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Mahila Samman Savings Certificate: Number of accounts opened under MSSC Scheme [Lok Sabha QA]

Mahila Samman Savings Certificate: Number of accounts opened under MSSC Scheme [Lok Sabha QA]

Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Economic Affairs

LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.3

TO BE ANSWERED ON MONDAY NOVEMBER 25, 2024/ Agrahayana 4, 1946 (Saka)

MAHILA SAMMAN SAVINGS CERTIFICATE (MSSC) SCHEME

No.3
Shri Pradeep Kumar Singh,
Shri Manish Jaiswal,
Dr. Hemant Vishnu Savara,
Shri Lumba Ram,
Shri Bidyut Baran Mahato,
Shri Ashok Kumar Rawat,
Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab,
Shri Mahesh Kashyap,
Smt. Shobhanaben Mahendrasinh Baraiya,
Shri Naba Charan Majhi,
Shri Yogender Chandolia,
Smt. Aparajita Sarangi,
Shri Suresh Kumar Kashyap:

Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) The salient features of the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate (MSSC) scheme along with the objectives and the reasons due to which the said scheme remains attractive and beneficial to women and girls, particularly with regard to promoting savings habit and financial independence; and

(b) The latest number of accounts opened under MSSC scheme in the country, State-wise particularly in Shimla Parliamentary constituency of Himachal Pradesh, Hazaribagh and Ramgarh of Jharkhand, Palghar district of Maharashtra and Misrikh constituency of Uttar Pradesh?

ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE
(SHRI PANKAJ CHAUDHARY)

(a) The Scheme was launched on 31.03.2023 to commemorate the ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav exclusively for the woman and minor girl. The account under this Scheme shall be open by a woman for herself, or by the guardian on behalf of a minor girl, on or before 31st March, 2025.

Some of the salient features of the schemes include:

  1. The account may be opened with a minimum deposit of ₹1000/- and maximum deposit of ₹2 Lakhs for a tenure of two years only.
  2. The interest rate for MSSC is 7.5% p.a. which is compounded quarterly and credited to the account.
  3. The facility of partial withdrawal and premature closure on compassionate grounds are also available under this Scheme.

The scheme was launched by the Government to promote financial independence of the woman of the country by allowing attractive rate of interest and to also help in achieving objectives of financial inclusion as set by Government of India.

(b) The State-wise details of total number of accounts opened under Mahila Samman Savings Certificate Scheme (MSSC) till 31.10.2024 is attached as ‘Annexure’. The information with regard to number of accounts is maintained district-wise. District-wise details (districts falling in the referred parliamentary constituencies) of total number of accounts opened under MSSC till 31.10.2024 are as under:-

Sr. No.StateDistrictNo. of account
1Himachal PradeshShimla20792
2JharkhandHazaribagh2000
3JharkhandRamgarh1520
4MaharashtraPalghar13036
5Uttar PradeshSitapur District (which includes Misrikh)3840

Annexure

Statement Showing State wise number of accounts opened under MSSC till 31.10.2024 
S.NoName of the StateAccounts opened since inception of the scheme
1ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS984
2ANDHRA PRADESH 211016
3ARUNACHAL PRADESH1663
4ASSAM64060
5BIHAR74019
6CHANDIGARH9728
7CHHATTISGARH66656
8DELHI109687
9GOA12061
10GUJARAT155267
11HARYANA106274
12HIMACHAL PRADESH 143704
13JAMMU AND KASHMIR23060
14JHARKHAND41702
15KARNATAKA293007
16KERALA114534
17LADAKH584
18LAKSHADWEEP49
19MADHYA PRADESH139506
20MAHARASHTRA746223
21MANIPUR1774
22MEGHALAYA3125
23MIZORAM2239
24NAGALAND1950
25ODISHA416989
26PUDUCHERRY7474
27PUNJAB90048
28RAJASTHAN222169
29SIKKIM1282
30TAMIL NADU 547675
31TELANGANA107199
32THE DADRA AND NAGAR HAVELI
AND DAMAN AND DIU
1519
33TRIPURA10454
34UTTAR PRADESH269532
35UTTARAKHAND78131
36WEST BENGAL254777
 Total4330121

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Paid Holiday for General Elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra, 2024, and Bye-elections in 15 States: DoPT O.M dt 07.11.2024

Paid Holiday for General Elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra, 2024, and Bye-elections in 15 States: DoPT O.M dt 07.11.2024

F. No. 12/1/2022-JCA
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
(Department of Personnel & Training)
Establishment (JCA) Section

2nd Floor, B Wing,
Lok Nayak Bhawan, Khan Market,
New Delhi, the 7th November, 2024

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: General Election to the Legislative Assemblies of Jharkhand and Maharashtra, 2024 and Bye-elections to 48 Assemblies Constituencies and 2 Parliamentary Constituencies of 15 States – Paid holiday – regarding

The undersigned is directed to refer to the announcement of the Election Commission of India regarding General Election to the Legislative Assemblies of Jharkhand and Maharashtra and Bye-elections to 2 (two) Parliamentary Constituencies and 48 (forty eight) Assembly Constituencies of 15 States. The dates of poll for the said elections in State of Jharkhand have been fixed on 13.11.2024 (Wednesday) and 20.11.2024 (Wednesday) in two phases and the date of poll in the State of Maharashtra has been fixed on 20.11.2024 (Wednesday). The dates of poll for the bye-elections to 2 (two) Parliamentary Constituencies and 48 (Forty eight) Assembly Constituencies of 15 States have been fixed on 13.11.2024 (Wednesday) and 20.11.2024 (Wednesday).

2. In this regard, it is informed that the following guidelines, already issued by DOPT vide GM No. 12/14/99-JCA dated 10th October, 2001, have to be followed for closing of the Central Government Offices including Industrial Establishments in the States:-

(i) The relevant offices/organizations shall remain closed on the day of poll in the notified areas where general elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly are scheduled to be conducted.

(ii) In connection with bye-election to Lok Sabha/State Assembly, only such of the employees who are bona-fide voters in the relevant constituency should be granted special casual leave on the day of polling. Special Casual leave may also be granted to an employee who is ordinarily a resident of constituency and registered as a voter but employed in any Central Government Organization/Industrial Establishment located outside the constituency having a general/bye-election.

3. The above instructions may be brought to the notice of all concerned.

(Gandharv Kumar Sandilya)
Under Secretary to the Govt. of India

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DA for Bank Employees from Nov 2024 to Jan 2025 as per 12th BPS– IBA ORDER

DA for Bank Employees from Nov 2024 to Jan 2025 as per 12th BPS– IBA ORDER

HR & Industrial Relations

No.CIR/HR&IR/76/D/2024-25/1550
November 7, 2024

All Members of the Association
(Designated Officers)

Dear Sir/ Madam,

Dearness Allowance for Workmen and Officer Employees in banks for the months of November 2024, December 2024 and January 2025 under XII BPS/ 9th Joint Note dated 08.03.2024

The confirmed All India Average Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (Base 2016= 100) for the quarter ended September 2024 are as follows:-

July 2024 – 142.7
August 2024 – 142.6
September 2024 – 143.3

The average CPI of the above is 142.86 and accordingly the number of points over 123.03 are 19.83 (142.86 – 123.03) The last average quarterly CPI was 140.23. Hence, there is an increase of 2.63 points for November 2024, December 2024 & January 2025.

In terms of clause 13 of the 12th Bipartite Settlement dated 08.03.2024 and clause 2 (i) of the Joint Note dated 08.03.2024, the rate of Dearness Allowance payable to Workmen and Officer employees for the months of November 2024, December 2024 & January 2025 shall be 19.83% of pay‘ (0.01 % change in DA on ‘pay’ for change in every second decimal place of CPI 2016 over 123.03 points)

Yours faithfully,

Brajeshwar Sharma
Senior Advisor (HR&IR)

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6th CPC DA Order from July 2024 for CG Employees and Autonomous Bodies: FINMIN Released O.M

6th CPC DA Order from July 2024 for CG Employees and Autonomous Bodies: FINMIN Released O.M

No. 1/6(1)/2024-E.II(B)
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Expenditure

North Block, New Delhi
Dated the 7th November, 2024

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revision of Dearness Allowance to the employees of Central Government and Central Autonomous Bodies continuing to draw their pay in the pay scale/Grade Pay as per 6th Central Pay Commission

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M. No. 1/3(1)/2008-E.II(B) dated 3rd June, 2024 on the subject mentioned above and to say that the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) in respect of employees of Central Government and Central Autonomous Bodies, who are continuing to draw their pay in the pre-revised pay scale/Grade Pay as per 6th Central Pay Commission, shall be enhanced from the existing rate of 239% to 246% of Basic Pay w.e.f. 01.07.2024.

Also Read: DA from July 2024 : FinMin released O.M

2. The provisions contained in paras 3, 4 and 5 of this Ministry’s 0.M.No.1(3)/2008-E.II(B) dated 29th August, 2008 shall continue to be applicable while regulating Dearness Allowance under these orders.

3. The contents of this Office Memorandum may also be brought to the notice of all organisations under the administrative control of the Ministries/Departments which have adopted the Central Government scales of pay.

4. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.

(Abhimanyu Sahoo)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

To
All Ministries/Departments of the Govt. of India (as per standard distribution list)
Copy to: C&AG, UPSC, etc.(as per standard endorsement list).

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Also Read: 5th CPC DA Order from July 2024 for CG Employees and Autonomous Bodies: FINMIN Released O.M

5th CPC DA Order from July 2024 for CG Employees and Autonomous Bodies: FINMIN Released O.M

5th CPC DA Order from July 2024 for CG Employees and Autonomous Bodies: FINMIN Released O.M

No. 1/6(2)/2024-E.II(B)
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Expenditure

North Block, New Delhi
Dated the 7th November, 2024

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revision of rates of Dearness Allowance to the employees of Central Government and Central Autonomous Bodies continuing to draw their pay in the pay scale as per 5th Central Pay Commission

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M. No. 1/3(2)/2008-E.II(B) dated 3rd June, 2024 on the subject mentioned above and to say that the rate of Dearness Allowance (DA) in respect of employees of Central Government and Central Autonomous Bodies, who are continuing to draw their pay in the pre-revised pay scale as per 5th Central Pay Commission, shall be enhanced from the existing rate of 443% to 455% of Basic Pay w.e.f. 01.07.2024.

Also Read: DA from July 2024 : FinMin released O.M

2. The provisions contained in paras 3, 4 and 5 of this Ministry’s O.M.No.1(13)/97-E.II(B) dated 3rd October, 1997 shall continue to be applicable while regulating Dearness Allowance under these orders.

3. The contents of this Office Memorandum may also be brought to the notice of all organisations under the administrative control of the Ministries/Departments which have adopted the Central Government scales of pay.

4. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.

(Abhimanyu Sahoo)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

To

All Ministries/Departments of the Govt. of India (as per standard distribution list)
Copy to: C&AG, UPSC, etc.(as per standard endorsement list).

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One Rank One Pension : Key Features

A Landmark Initiative Celebrating 10 Years of Tribute to the Nation’s Heroes

On this day, One Rank One Pension was implemented. This was a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of our veterans and ex-service personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting our nation. The decision to implement OROP was a significant step towards addressing this long-standing demand and reaffirming our nation’s gratitude to our heroes.

-PM Narendra Modi

In a historic move to address long-standing disparities in pension benefits, India launched the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, a decision that would change the lives of its military veterans. For years, veterans had fought not just on the battlefield, but also for equal recognition in their post-service lives, particularly when it came to pension benefits. With the introduction of OROP, the government took a bold step to ensure that soldiers who had served the nation with unwavering dedication would be treated fairly.

This initiative marked a momentous commitment to honor the sacrifices and service of those who had protected the country, promising them the respect and financial security they deserved.

As OROP completes the 10 years in 2024, it is essential to reflect on the immense benefits the scheme has brought to the armed forces community. The initiative has not only bridged the pension gap between current and past retirees but also reinforced the nation’s dedication to the well-being of its veterans. By bringing equity and fairness to pensionary benefits, OROP has played a crucial role in fortifying the bond between the Indian government and its military personnel.

The introduction of OROP has proven to be a game-changer for lakh of ex-servicemen and their families, ensuring that military personnel are treated with the respect they deserve throughout their post-retirement lives.

Overview of One Rank One Pension

At its core, One Rank One Pension (OROP) is a simple yet profound idea: that military personnel retiring in the same rank and with the same length of service should receive the same pension, regardless of their date of retirement. The principle addresses the disparity in pension benefits faced by former soldiers due to inflation, changes in pay scales, and the evolving nature of service conditions over time.

The scheme directly benefits the ex-servicemen and their families by ensuring that the pension gap between current and retired personnel is bridged periodically. The successful implementation of OROP in 2014 was not only a policy shift but a significant gesture of the government’s gratitude and respect towards those who served the nation.

Key Features of the OROP Scheme

The OROP order issued by the government on November 7, 2015, brought into effect a uniform pension system for all retired defense personnel, ensuring that the same rank with the same length of service would get equal pension benefits. The policy’s primary elements include:

  1. Re-fixation of Pensions: The pension of all past pensioners is re-fixed based on the pensions of personnel who retired in 2013, starting from July 1, 2014. This created a new benchmark for pensions, with all retirees getting equal benefits for their service.
  2. Periodic Revision: The pension is to be re-fixed every five years, ensuring that it continues to reflect changes in the pay and pension structure.
  3. Arrears Payments: Arrears of pension were to be paid in equal half-yearly installments, although the arrears for family pensioners and gallantry awardees were paid in a single installment.
  4. Safeguarding Above-Average Pension: For personnel drawing pensions higher than the average, their pensions are protected, ensuring that they do not lose out on the benefits of OROP.
  5. Inclusive of All Ex-Servicemen: The order covered all personnel who retired up to June 30, 2014, and provided a robust framework for revising pensions for all ranks, including family pensioners.

Addressing a Long-Standing Demand

The demand for One Rank One Pension (OROP) had been a longstanding issue, lingering for over 40 years. Several government committees and commissions had examined the matter, but each time, the proposal was dismissed, mainly due to financial constraints and administrative complexities. The 3rd Central Pay Commission was the first to address the issue in a comprehensive way, recommending weightages in qualifying service for pensions. Over the years, committees like the K.P. Singh Dev Committee (1984) and the Sharad Pawar Committee (1991) also studied the matter but failed to offer a definitive solution. Despite these setbacks, the demand remained persistent, with the Standing Committee on Defence and other forums continuing to advocate for its implementation.

By the time of the 16th Lok Sabha and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government decided to honor the demands of ex-servicemen. The 2014 Budget allocated ₹1,000 crore for its implementation, and after extensive consultations, the Government Order was passed on November 7, 2015, covering all personnel who had retired until June 30, 2014.

mpact on Veterans and Their Families

The OROP scheme has benefitted over 25 lakh veterans and their families, bringing much-needed financial security to the ex-servicemen community. The scheme has not only improved the standard of living for retired military personnel but has also ensured greater dignity for their service to the nation. For many veterans, this was a long-awaited recognition of their contributions, bridging the gap between their sacrifices and the rewards they received post-retirement.

OROP has also had significant social and emotional value. It has contributed to a stronger bond between the Indian government and its military veterans, signaling the nation’s commitment to those who serve and protect its sovereignty. For the families of soldiers, many of whom live with the sacrifices of their loved ones, this policy brought a sense of fulfillment and acknowledgment.

Looking Ahead: OROP’s Continued Relevance

On this day, when OROP was implemented a decade ago, it is important to recognize the continuing significance of this policy for the defense forces. As Prime Minister Modi emphasized, the OROP scheme is not just about pensions but is an affirmation of the government’s dedication to strengthening the armed forces and enhancing the welfare of those who have selflessly served the nation.

The re-fixation of pensions every five years ensures that the scheme remains adaptable to the evolving needs of ex-servicemen and their families. It also continues to be a powerful symbol of the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of its military personnel, many of whom are at the forefront of protecting India’s borders and interests.

In conclusion, as we reflect on the impact of One Rank One Pension, it is clear that the policy has provided much-needed relief and recognition to India’s veterans. With continued refinements and periodic revisions, OROP promises to remain a cornerstone of the nation’s support for its armed forces, ensuring that the heroes who safeguard India’s sovereignty are honored, respected, and cared for long after they have hung up their uniforms.

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