Monday, April 29, 2013

EASTERN ZONE STUDY CAMP – GUWAHATI

NFPE Eastern Zone study camp was held at Guwahati from 27th to 28thApril, 2013. The programme commenced with flag hoisting. Com.M.Krishnan, Secretary General, NFPE hoisted the National Flag. After that floral tributes was paid to the Martyrs. Com.S.Rahaman, General Secretary, Reception Committee, Assam welcomed all the leaders and delegates on behalf of Reception Committee.
Com.M.Krishnan delivered the inaugural speech and also addressed the Seminar organized on“National Postal Policy – 2012”. He elaborately described all the issues related to policy and its impact on Department of Posts and postal employees.
Class - I on the subject “Importance of Joint Trade Union Movement with reference to North Eastern Region” was taken by Com.Satanjib Das, Joint Convener of Joint Council of Action of Trade Unions, Assam.
All National leaders viz., Com.M.Krishnan, Secretary General, NFPE, Com.K.V.Sridharan, Ex-General Secretary, P-III, Com.I.S.Dabas, General Secretary, P-IV., Com.Giriraj Singh, General Secretary, R-III, Pranab Bhattacharjee, General Secretary, AIP AOEU, Com.T.Satyanarayana, General Secretary, AIPAEA, Com. P.Pandurangarao, General Secretary, AIPEU-GDS(NFPE), Com.R.Sivannarayana, President, AIPEU Gr.C(CHQ), Com.S.K.Bardan, President, R-III(CHQ) and Com.R.N.Parashar, Asst. Secretary General, NFPE, Com.S.P.Mukherjee, vice President, NFPE were present on the dais.
The session was presided by Com.S.P.Mukherjee, Vice President, NFPE.
Class - II was taken by Com.Tapan Sen, Hon’ble Member of Parliament and General Secretary, CITU, on the subject “Significance of 20th & 21 Feb, 2013 strike and future course of action”. He elaborately described the whole issues related to neo-liberal economic policies and its impact on working class and common people of India. He stressed the need of united struggle to resist these policies and he also intimated the importance of unity which has been formed recently that all the central unions have come on same platform. He appealed to all to intensify the struggles by creating class consciousness.
The session was presided by Com.L.P.Saikia, Chairman, Reception Committee & Circle Secretary, Gr.C, Assam and vote of thanks presented by Com.R.N.Parashar, ASG, NFPE.
Class - III was taken by Com.K.K.N.Kutty, Secretary General, Confederation of Central Govt. Employees & Workers on the subject “Role of Confederation in the C.G Employees Movement”. He elaborately described the role of Confederation since its formation in 1956 and up to last 20-21 Feb 2013 two days strike.
The session was presided by Com.T.Satyanarayana, General Secretary, AIPAEA and vote of thanks presented by Com.D.K.Debnath, R-III, Reception Committee.
On 28-04-2013 (2nd day) the session began at 10.30 am.
Class - IV taken by Com.M.Krishnan, Secretary General, NFPE on the subject “History of Postal Trade Union Movement and our present day task”. He spoke at length on the subject and described the history of Postal Trade Union Movement since its formation as postal club in 1905 at Kolkata to till date in a very detailed manner. He appraised all the delegates about the sacrifice rendered by the founder leaders viz., Babu Tarapada Mukherjee, Dada Gosh, K.G.Bose, N.J.Iyer and K.Adinarayana in building such a strong movement. He elaborately described the achievement gained through continuous struggles under the banner of NFPTE and NFPE. He described in detail the impact of neo-liberal economic policies on working class as a whole and postal dept particularly. He told that Govt. is planning to corporatize the dept of posts for which National Postal Policy 2012 has been prepared. He stressed the need of united struggle to resist the onslaughts unleashed by the Govt. for which militancy and knowledge is required.
The session was presided by com.S.K.Bardan, President, R-III.
Class - V taken by Com.K.V.Sridharan, Ex-General Secretary, Gr.C on the subject “ Service Rules and Role of Unionists” which he presented in a very good manner to the maximum benefit of employees. He also described the good qualities to be adopted by the unionists for the welfare and protection of interests of employees.
All the leaders viz., Com.I.S.Dabas, Com.Girirajsingh, Com.Pranab Bhattacharya, Com.T.Satyanarayana, Com.P.Pandurangarao, Com.R.Sivannarayana, Com.S.K.Bardan, Com.S.P.Mukherjee also addressed the study camp and gave very valuable suggestions for the efficient functioning of union leaders and active workers.
The session was presided by Com.R.Sivannarayana, President, Gr.C(CHQ).
On behalf of NFPE, Com.R.N.Parashar, Asst. Secretary General extended revolutionary greetings and heartiest thanks to all the leaders and members of Reception Committee particularly Com.S.Rahaman, Com.G.Talukdar, Com.L.P.Saikia, Com.Moinulla Huq, D.K.Debnath and others who played very important role in organizing this study camp. He appealed all the delegates to extend such type of study camps from Circle to divisional level.


Com.M.Krishnan addressing
Attention of Delegates to the speeches

Com.K.V.Sridharan Addressing
Com.R.N.Parashar Addressing
On behalf of Reception Committee com.Mausami Majumdar, Asst. Circle Secretary, Gr.C., Assam offered vote of thanks.
The meeting ended with enthusiastic slogans.

Project Arrow Check List to avoid Red Zone


Thanks to

Mr. MANISH SHETH,
Dnl. System Administrator
JAMNAGAR HO-361001
Courtesy : http://sapost.blogspot.in

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Happy Ram Navami


The AIPEU, Group-C, Keonjhar Division wishes all a very happy and colourful Ram Navami.

Release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to central government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners, due from 1.1.2013

The Union Cabinet today gave its approval to release an additional instalment of Dearness Allowance (DA) to central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners with effect from 01.01.2013 at the rate of 8 percent over the existing rate of 72 percent.  
Thus, the combined impact on the exchequer on account of both DA and DR would be of the order of Rs.8629.20 crore per annum and Rs. 10067.36 crore in the financial year 2013-14 (that is for a period of 14 months from January, 2013 to February, 2014).

Source : PIB Release, 18 April, 2013

Friday, April 12, 2013

Interest rate on General Provident Fund lowered

New Delhi, April 12:
From April 1, Government employees and defence personnel will earn less from the General Provident Fund (GPF), as the interest rate has been brought down to 8.7 per cent from 8.8 per cent last year.
“During the year 2013-14, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 8.7 per cent per annum,” the Finance Ministry has said.
The revised rate will be applicable for 10 types of funds, which includes The General Provident Fund (Central Services), the Contributory Provident Fund (India), the All India Services Provident Fund, the State Railway Provident Fund, the General Provident Fund (Defence Services), the Indian Ordnance Department Provident Fund, the Indian Ordnance Factories Workmen’s Provident Fund, the Indian Naval Dockyard Workmen’s Provident Fund, the Defence Services Officers Provident Fund and the Armed Forces Personnel Provident Fund.
The interest rate on GPF is usually fixed on the basis of the average of yield on Government securities of similar maturity.
This rate was eight per cent till November 2011. It was then raised to 8.6 per cent for the period December 1, 2011 to March 31, 2012. It was hiked further to 8.8 per cent with effect from April 1, 2012.
The latest reduction of interest rate on GPF is in line with lowering of rates on small savings such as the National Saving Certificates and Public Provident Fund.
Source : http://www.thehindubusinessline.com

FAQs on CEA, Joining Time, OTA etc.

Mumbai gets its first Mahila Dak Ghar


The first Mahila Dak Ghar – a post office entirely operated by women staff was inaugurated today by Ms. P Gopinath, Secretary, Post and Chairperson, Postal Services Board, Government of India, in Mumbai.
 
Mumbai : April 12,2013
This Post Office is located at New Customs House on the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road in the busy office area of South Mumbai, in close proximity of the Collectorate, Old Customs House, Asiatic Library and RBI.
 
The office, which will be open from 10 am to 6 pm, offers both traditional and modern postal services like booking of all registered and speed post articles, e-Money Order, Western Union Money Transfer, e-payment of utility bills of MTNL, BEST And Mahanagar Gas Ltd, besides the Post Office Savings Bank transactions.
 
As of now, 12 female employees will run the Mahila Dak Ghar, headed by a Senior Superintendent of Posts.
 
Currently, the Maharashtra Postal Circle has a total staff strength of 26,468, out of which 5,008 are women. “As a mark of respect to the women of Maharashtra, we decided to launch the first Mahila Dak Ghar in this circle in Mumbai “ said Col. K C Mishra, Chief Post Master General, Maharashtra and Goa Circle.
 
Earlier this year, on the occasion of the International Women’s Day on March 8, Union Minister for Communication & IT, Kapil Sibal had inaugurated the first all-women post office in the country in New Delhi.
 
At the time, Mr Sibal had announced that more such offices would be opened in the country, especially in the metro cities. The new office in Mumbai is part of the same initiative.
Source : http://pibmumbai.gov.in/scripts/detail.asp?releaseId=E2013PR524

Protest by AIPEU, Group-C Odisha Circle against mass scale abolition of posts

Dear Comrades,
You might be aware that we have already protested before the SPOs, Keonjhar Division against abolition of Group- ‘C’ , Postman and Group-‘D’ posts of Annual Direct recruitment Plans for the year 2005-2006, 2007 and 2008 under the scheme of Optimization of Direct Recruitment Vacancies in respect of Keonjhar Division vide our union’s letter No. UN/AIPEU/KJR/Staff Dated 26th March, 2013 ( already published in this blog) with request to our Circle Union for taking up the issue.
Now, Our Circle Union has protested the whimsical and hypothetical decision for identifying abolition of posts.
The copy of Circle Union letter is reproduced below for information of the members.

Thursday, April 11, 2013

DA - LATEST POSITION

THE DA PROPOSAL IS PENDING CLEARANCE OF CABINET. PRIME MINISTER IS REACHING DELHI ON 12th. WE EXPECT IT TO BE CLEARED BY TUESDAY.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Resolution passed at 2nd DWC of AIPEU, Gr-C, Keonjhar Division


S.C.Patra                                                                                                         A.K.Mishra
               PRESIDENT                                                                                                   SECRETARY

 eMail: aipeup3kjr@gmail.com                                    website: aipeup3kjr.blogspot.in

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------         
No: UN/AIPEU/Gr-C/KJR/ DWC/2013                                            Date: 09.04.2013

To

All members
The 2nd DWC meeting of the union was held at PRC, Keonjhargarh HO on 07.04.2013 at 10 AM under the president-ship of Com. Sharat Chandra Patra. At the outset, the House passed the proposal of condolence prayer in the memory of departed Trade Unionists, Employees and Social Workers, who have passed away during the interval since last DWC.

2. The members were overwhelmed with joy at the news that Com. R.C.Mishra, our Circle secretary had been  elected as vice-president of AIPEU, Gr-C (CHQ) at last 29th AIC held at Thiruvananthapuram. The House passed unanimously a resolution for conveying warm greetings and hearty congratulations to Com. R.C.Mishra on such great victory.

3. The statistics on the membership and organizational review was presented by Com. A.K.Mishra, Divisional Secretary and it was observed that the membership collected so far is satisfactory. Further, it has been resolved that organizational meetings will be held at different places to educate our members on policy and programme of the Union and to assist GDS union to procure more membership.
 
4. An inforgettable and marvelous experience and observations on 29th AIC of AEPEU, Gr-C at Thiruvananthapuram from 10.03.2013 to 13.03.2013 were shared by Com. Kirti Ch. Das, veteran leader with the members present in the House. It was a historic AIC, he claimed. Com. Das explained the necessity for formation of Mahila Sub Committee at divisional level and also encouraged the new members to attend the next AIC. He concluded his topic requesting all members to participate actively in union matter.

5. The collection of subscriptions from members through deduction from salary is satisfactory. However, after ascertaining the quota position from Circle Union and CHQ and clearing the same, the financial position can be reflected.

6. While reviewing the agendas of monthly meetings with Divisional Superintendent, it was observed that a number of items pertaining to staff problems are not being attended by the Divisional Office with sincere and promptitude. The House expressed dissatisfaction over the in-action of the administration towards solving staff problems and fulfilling genuine demands.

7. With the permission of Chair, the following proposals were discussed and passed unanimously.

A. The agitational programmes on 12.12.12 and from 20.02.2013 to 21.02.2013 were reviewed and it has been decided that the members who had not participated in last strikes without adhering to CHQ/NFPE directives will be called for explanation. The DWC conveyed its revolutionary greetings to all members who participated and play active role in those strikes to make a grand success.

B. It has been decided to form Mahila Sub Committee at Divisional level within the Divisional branch.

C. It has been resolved that assistance will be given to contingent workers to convene a adhoc committee for redressal of their grievances.

D. Receipt books will be printed for granting towards receipt of monthly subscription/donation from the members.

E. It has been also decided to donate ` 500/- to local co-ordination committee of unions and Associations towards our share of the expenditure incurred in last 2 days strike programme.

The meeting ended with vote of thanks to the Chair and the members attended.
                                                                                                 (A.K.Mishra)                       
                                                                                          Divisional Secretary
                                                                   AIPEU, Group-C
                                                             Keonjhar Divisional Branch

                          

Monday, April 8, 2013

CHQ Circular on settlement of Circle level items


Declaration of Holiday on 14th April, 2013— Birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

                                                                                                                                               MOST IMMEDIATE
F. No.12/4/2013-JCA-2
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances 86 Pensions
(Department of Personnel & Training)
North Block, New Delhi
Dated the 8th April, 2013.
OFFICE MEMORANDUM
 
Subject: Declaration of Holiday on 14th April, 2013— Birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
 
It has been decided to declare Sunday, the 14th April 2013, as a Closed Holiday on account of the birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, for all Central Government Offices including Industrial Establishments
throughout India.
2. The above holiday is also being notified in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (26 of 1881).
3. All Ministries/Departments of Government of India may bring the above decision to the notice of all concerned.
Sd/-
(Ashok Kumar)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India
2309 2589

Mutual transfer of P As in Odisha Circle under Rule-38 of Postal Manual, Vol.IV



F A Qs on Recruitment Rules

Clarification on expansion of clientele eligible for PLI


Correction in Clause l70 of Post Office Guide Part-I regarding amount of compensation payable in case of loss/damage of registered articles

Six things to know about tax deducted at source

1. TDS is the tax paid by individuals on certain types of incomes. The deductor, or the person paying the income, deducts the tax and pays the balance to the deductee, or the one receiving the income.

2. The types of income which invite TDS include salary paid to employees, interest on bank deposits and bonds, winnings from lotteries and horse races, etc.

3. TDS is deductible at various rates specified by the government. There may be a threshold listed for different types of incomes, and TDS may be levied only above this limit.

4. The deductor issues a TDS certificate to the deductee, giving details of the tax cut. It is treated as tax paid by the deductee on income earned, and adjusted against income tax payable for the year while filing the return.

5. The responsibility of deducting tax at source and depositing it with the government lies with the deductor. The TDS should be deposited within a week of the end of the month in which the deduction is made.

6. The returns for the TDS must be filed by all deductors every quarter on the prescribed forms. The respective due dates for filing of returns are 15 July, 15 October, 15 January and 15 May.
Courtesy : http://economictimes.indiatimes.com

Thursday, April 4, 2013

ADDENDUM to the Revision in Interest Rates of Small Savings Schemes w.e.f 1st April 2013

Dispatch of Admit cards for PA/SA Recruitment examination.


DEPARTMENT OF POSTS
Office of the Chief Postmaster General, Delhi Circle
Meghdoot Bhawan, New Delhi-110001
(M.O. Section)
To:-
All CPMsG
In India.
No:- Mails/42-1/PA/SA/DR/2013 dated 28.03.2013

Sub: Dispatch of Admit cards for PA/SA Recruitment examination.

This is regarding dispatch of 10.67 lac of admit Cards through ordinary post (with pre fixed Rs.5/- stamp) tendered by CMC Limited.

The said mails have been tested on machine (LSM) & found that the mails were not compatible with machine.

Due to acute shortage of manpower it is very difficult to make the sorting work of 10.67 lakh mail at AMPC/Delhi. Keeping in view the such huge & time bound mail, it has been decided to dispatch these all mail circle-wise to circle’s headquarters for further sorting, dispatch and delivery within circle.The breakup of the total mail with indication of total mail for each circle is enclosed for ready reference.

It is, therefore, requested to kindly make the proper arrangement of sorting, dispatch and delivery of admit card in your circle. These mails will be dispatched by the S.J. MBC to circle's headquarter indicating ‘SPL’bag on label for further necessary action.
Asstt. Director(MO)
o/o CPMG, Delhi Circle
New Delhi-110001
Copy to:-
1. DDG(Rectt.) Postal Directorate, Dak Bhawan New Delhi-110001 for information and necessary action.
2. Director (MB) Postal Directorate, Dak Bhawan New Delhi-110001 for information and necessary action.
3. Sh. Sanjeev Dham Dy. General Manager CMC Limited Okhla Phase I New Delhi-110020.He is requested to make the arrangement of handing over circle-wise mails with stamp of Rs. 5/-affixed on each letter to S.J. MBC S.J.Airport New Delhi-110003 w.e.f. 01-04-2013.
4. SSRM Air Mail Sorting Division New Delhi-110021 for information and making proper arrangement of receipt and dispatch of above said mails direct to concerned Circle’s headquarters with indication ‘SPL’ bag on labels.

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

N F P E Circular

To
All General Secretaries NFEPE Affiliates
All Office Bearers of NFPE
All Circle/Divisional/Branch Secretaries
Dear Comrades,
1. SEVENTH CPC & PFRDA BILL – JOINT AGITATION BY RAILWAY, DEFENCE & CONFEDERATION.
Due to the consistent efforts made by the Central Headquarters of the Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers, as a follow up action to the 12th December 2012 strike, a joint platform of action of all Central Government Employees including Railway, Defence and other C. G. Employees has emerged under the banner of All India Railway men’s Federation (AIRF), All India Defence Employees Federation (AUDEF) and Confedration Central Government Employees & Workers, mainly on two demands viz: Constitution of 7th CPC and withdrawal of FPRDA Bill. A meeting of the Central Leaders of the AIRF, AIDEF and Confederation has given a joint call to all Central Government Employees to organize nationwide mass demonstrations at all important cities on 29thApril 2013 and also to send Telegrams to Prime Minister of India on the same day.
Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers, during the 12th December 2012 strike itself, has demanded the constitution Seventh Central Pay Commission and also inclusion of the Gramin Dak Sevaks under the purview of the 7thCPC. All the Central Trade Unions including INTUC, BMS, HMS, AITUC, CITU, UTUC etc has also demanded constitution of 7th CPC in their joint memorandum submitted to the Finance Minster during the pre-budget discussion. Thus the demand raised by Confederation alone, has now become the common demand of entire Central Government Employees and also the Central Trade Unions.
NFPE call upon entirety of the Postal and RMS employees including Gramin Dak Sevaks to make the 29thApril mass demonstration programmes a grand success by taking a lead role in mobilising maximum number of employees at all important cities under the banner of joint platform of action comprising AIRF, AIDEF & Confederation. Telegrams demanding constitution of 7th CPC and scrapping of the PFRDA Bill may also be sent to the Prime Minster of India by all General Secretaries, Circle Secretaries and Branch/Divisional Secretaries of affiliated unions of NFPE.
2. 24th NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF CONFEDERATION OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES & WORKERS
The 24th National Conference of the Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers will be held at Kolkata from 4th to 6th May 2013. The Venue of the Conference is Sukanta Mancha, Beliaghate, Kolkata Inaugural session will take place at Shramik Mandal Kendra, Kanykurgachi, Kolkata - 54 on 4th May at 4PM. Delegates from about 107 Affiliated organizations are expected to attend the National Conference which is held once in three years. Number of eligible delegates of each affiliated organisation is decided based on the paid up membership as per quota remitted to the Confederation CHQ. Delegates fee is Rs. 500/- per head.
All affiliated unions of NFPE which are affiliated of Confederation also, are requested to send their delegates to the conference. Instructions may be given to the delegates to book up & down travel tickets immediately.
3. 9th FEDERAL COUNCIL OF NATIONAL FEDERATION OF POSTAL EMPLOYEES (NFPE)
9th Federal Council of NFPE will be held at Hyderabad from 9th to 12th June 2013. The Circle coordinating Committee of NFPE Unions, Andhra Pradesh Circle, has formed a preparatory Committee and the initial preparation for the successful conduct of the Federal Council has already begun. Number of eligible Federal Councillors of each affiliated unions of NFPE will be basedon the quota remitted upto 31.03.2013, since the last Federal Council. List of eligible delegates showing the amount of quota remitted will be published shortly. General Secretaries of all affiliated unions of NFPE are requested to give instructions to their elected Federal Councillors to book the up & down travel ticket immediately.
4. NFPE Eastern Zone Study Camp at Guwahati (Assam)
After the successful conducting of Southern Zone Study Camp at Chennai and Central Zone study camp at Vidisha (MP), the Eastern Zone Study Camp of all NFPE affiliated unions will be held at Guwahati (Assam) on 27th & 28th April 2013. The list showing the quota of the minimum number of delegates fixed for each circle union was circulated one month back. However, a copy of the same circular is enclosed herewith. All General Secretaries of NFPE affiliated unions are requested to give strict instructions to their circle Secretaries to fix the delegates immediately and also ensure their participation in the camp WITHOUT FAIL. Delegates may be instructed to book their up & down tickets immediately if not already booked. Programme notice of the study camp will be finalized shortly and will be sent separately. A seminar on Postal Services will be organized in Connection with the camp. Delegates attending the seminar are eligible for special casual leave.
Northern Zone study camp will be held in UP in the month of May/June 2013. Western Zone study camp will be held in Rajasthan and dates will be finalized shortly.
5. FEDERAL SECRETARIAT OF NFPE
Federal Secretariat of NFPE will be held at Guwahati (Assam) on 26th April 2013. All General Secretaries are requested to attend the meeting at 11 AM on 26.04.2013.
6. 29th ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIPEU GROUP ‘C’
29th AIC of AIPEU Group ‘C’ was held at Thiruvananthapuram from 2013 March 10th to 13thCom. R. Sivannaryana (Andhra Pradesh) Com. M. Krishnan (Kerala) and Com. Balwinder Singh (Delhi) are unanimously elected as the President, General Secretary and Financial Secretary respectively.
7. 1st ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF THE AIPEU-GDS (NFPE)
1st AIC of the newly formed GDS Union, AIPEU-GDS (NFPE) on associate member of NFPE, was held at Chennai on 21st & 22nd March 2013. Com. Bijoy Gopal Sur (West Bengal), Com. P. Panduranga Rao (Andhra Pradesh) and Com. V. Murugan (keral) are elected as the President, General Secretary and Financial Secretary unanimously.
8. 2nd ALL INDIA CONFERENCE OF AIPSBCOEA
2nd AIC of SBCO Employees Association, an affiliate of NFPE, was held at Haridwar (Uttarakhand) on 2nd and 3rd March 2013. Com. S. P. Kulkarni (Maharashtra) Com. Virendra Tiwari (U.P) and Com. Rajiv Kumar (Haryana) are unanimously elected as the President, General Secretary and Financial Secretary. The Department has confirmed the recognition granted to SBCOEA and the rival unions attempt to de-recognise our union has failed in the Chennai High Court.
9. CENTRAL JCA SUBMITS JOINT MEMORANDUM TO THE NEW SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF POSTS
The Central JCA (NFPE & FNPO) has decided to submit a joint memorandum to the new Secretary, Department of Posts on the long pending major demands of the Postal & RMS employees including Gramin Dak Sevaks and Casual, Part-time, Contingent employees. Copy of the Memorandum will be published in the websites. JCA has decided to organize agitational programmes, if the demands are not settled in a time bound manner.
Yours fraternally,
SD/-
(M. Krishnan)
Secretary General

NFPE News : Memorandum submitted to Secretary, Department of Posts, by Postal Joint Council of Action (PJCA) on 01.04.2013

The meeting of the Postal Joint Council of Action (PJCA) comprising Secretary General and General Secretaries of the National Federation of Postal Employees (NFPE) and Federation of National Postal Organisations (FNPO) has reviewed the situation prevailing in the Department of Posts, regarding settlement of the following long pending demands of the staff side. The meeting viewed with grave concern the inordinate delay in implementing the assurances given to the staff side both during the discussion on strike charter of demands and also in the JCM Departmental Council meetings, causing large scale resentment among the Postal and RMS employees including Gramin Dak Sevaks and casual, Part time and contingent employees.
As the new Secretary, Department of Posts, has taken over charge only recently, the JCA decided to bring all the important/pending cases once again to the notice of the Secretary, Posts for early settlement, before resorting to agitational programmes. Accordingly we submit the following long pending cases for your immediate intervention and early favorable action.
1. Issues relating to Gramin Dak Sevaks
The Following specific assurances given by Secretary, Department of Posts, are yet to be implemented.
(a) Enhancement of Bonus ceiling – In the matter of enhancement of Bonus ceiling to 3500/- of Gramin Dak Sevaks, it was assured that another attempt will be made to get the approval of the Finance Ministry. It was informed that the file has already been submitted to Finance Ministry with the favourable recommendations of the Postal Board and Minster, Communications.
(b) Revision of Cash handling norms
On the issue of withdrawal of upward change in cash handling norms etc, it was assured that the entire issue will be re-examined. A DDG level committee was also constituted. Minster of States for Communications has also assured the staff side that needful will be done in this case.
(c) Ensuring no reduction of TRCA under any circumstances
It was assured by Minster of State for Communications that orders for full protection of TRCA will be issued. But, in the orders issued by the Directorate, protection is given for one year only and thereafter if workload is not increased TRCA will be reduced without any protection. As per the earlier orders protection was given up to the maximum of the lower TRCA even if workload is reduced. As per the new order after one year there will be no protection at all. When workload is reduced due to circumstances beyond the Control of the GDS, reducing the TRCA is quite unjustified and inhuman.
(d) Removal of minimum 50 points conditions for GDS compassionate appointment:
(e) Redeployment of mailman posts in new areas
(f) Review of cash conveyance allowance –Monthly ceiling of Rs. 50/- to be removed.
(g) Introduction of Health Scheme.
(h) Norms for RPLI
(i) Providing norms for cash remittance from BO to AO & Vice Versa
In the minutes dated 12.07.2010 it was informed that the issues of the Health Scheme has been taken up with the nodal Ministries still it is pending.
2. Immediate finalization of Cadre Restructuring:
After the marathon discussion on the problems put forth in the strike charter on 10.01.2012 & 12.01.2012, Secretary, Department of Posts, has assured both orally and also in the minutes, inter alia;
“As recorded in the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011, the proposal is under consideration of a committee under the Chairpersonship of DDG (P). The Staff side expressed their concern about the undue delay in fianalisation of the proposal on which the Secretary Posts, desired finalization of this process by 31st March 2012. It was assured that the timelines would be adhered to”. As regards restructuring of Postal Accounts officials, it was informed that the proposal was cleared by the JS&FA and stands referred to the Secretary (Posts). It was also decided to have a separate Committee under the Chairpersonship of Ms. Sandhya Rani, PMG (BD) Andhra Pradesh Circle to consider Cadre Restructuring of MMS staff. The Committee will submit its report within three months from the date of formation.”
Again in the Minutes of the discussion held with the staff side on 21.052012, it is further assured as follows:
“It was decided to formulate a proposal by 30th June 2012 for further examination in consultation with the nodal Ministries. Regarding cadre restricting of Postal Accounts it was assured that the matter will be pursued further with Postal Accounts wing and Establishment division and the PJCA will be kept appraised of the progress in the regard.”
Again during the JCM, Departmental Council standing Committee meeting held on 18.12.2012 and JCM (DC) Meeting held on 28.12.2012 it was assured as follows:
“It was informed that the report of the committee is under consideration. Proposal will be formulated by the Department. However, one round of talks with JCM members will be held before the proposal is firmed up.”
At one stage, the staff side has made it clear that if the department goes on dragging the cadre restructuring issue indefinitely, the staff side will be forced to non-cooperate with the IT Modernisation project.
It was repeatedly assured that the cadre restructuring will not be linked with the IT Modernisation Project. But still the proposals are not finalized. No meeting of the Cadre Restructuring Committee by the Postal Board was held during the last one year. The undue and unwarranted delay is causing concern and also strong resentment among the employees.
3. Revision of wages of casual labourers and their absorption
In the minutes of the discussion held with the staff side on 10.01.2012 & 123.01.2012, the Secretary (Posts) has assured as follows:
“The Staff side was appraised that a Committee had been constituted under the Chairpersonship of CPMG Assam Circle to look into the issues pertaining to Casual Labourers and it is likely to submit its report shortly. The Staff side expressed its concern over the delay in the decision. Regarding the union’s request for revised minimum wages w.e.f 01.01.2006, the matter will be examined on priority.”
Again in the minutes of the discussion held on 21.05.2012, it was further assured that____
“A Comprehensive proposal on the matter of Casual labourers will be formulated by 30thJune 2012.”
In spite of these repeated assurances the payment of pro-rate wages to the law-paid casual labourers w.e.f 01.01.2006 has not taken place causing inordinate delay in payment of minimum wages to those poor employees.
4. Issuing orders on the items finalized by the Postmen Committee and also follow up action on certain items to be referred to work study Unit.
(a) Follow up action on certain in items of the Postmen Committee constituted by the Postal Board, is yet to be completed, i.e; maximum beat length, unscientific resorting to single Postmen beats, Double duty, correction in the definition of the Congested area etc.
(b) In spite of Clear orders issued by the Directorate for filling up of Postmen & MTS Vacancies for the year 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012, in certain circles (Eg. Andhra Pradesh) the examination for promotion to Postmen and MTS is not yet completed.
5. Abnormal delay in notifying HSG-I Rectt. Rules
The finalization of revised HSG-I Recruitment Rules is being delayed on one pretext or the other. This is pending over five years. 100% of HSG I posts are lying vacant and are being managed by officiating arrangements without any financial benefits. Due to the delay in finalizing HSG I Recruitment Rules, Carving out of Postmaster Grade III is also delayed. It is most unfortunate that orders have been issued by the Directorate not to fill up the HSG I vacancies as per the old Recruitment rules. At least this would have been caused to fill up the vacancies.
It has defeated the very purpose of matching savings offered to the extent of 680 PA posts for availing HSG I Promotion and it is highly deplorable. Necessary action may please be taken to finalise the HSG-I Recruitment Rules or at least to fill all the vacant posts forthwith besides carving out of Postmaster Grade III Posts as per the existing HSG I Recruitment Rules.
6. Abnormal delay in filling up of vacant LSG, HSG II and HSG-I vacancies due to non-holding of DPCs in many circles
In many circles, the regular DPC to LSG has not been convened. Many LSG Posts are being kept vacant resultantly causing a heavy shortage in PA cadre due to their officiating. Further the delay caused non filling up of HSG-II Post due to inadequacies in the eligible candidates in LSG cadre. In many circles, HSG-II DPC has also not been convened and many of the HSG-II Posts could not be filled up on a regular basis due to the officiating of the incumbents in the vacant HSG I Posts.
In nutshell all the higher posts are being managed only with the officiating or adhoc arrangements causing non filling up of basic PA posts and denying and depriving the due promotional chances to the eligible candidates .
It is therefore requested to cause appropriate orders to convene DPC and fill up all the vacant LSG & HSG II posts immediately by prescribing time schedule
7. Problems of Postmaster Cadre Officials
(i) Allowing Postmaster Cadre officials to appear for IP and PSS Group B examination.
(ii) Orders permitting the Postmaster Cadre official to officiate in HSG-I vacancies and earmarked Postmaster Grade III Posts.
(iii) Allow PO & RMS Accounts cadre official to opt for Postmasters cadre
(iv) Filling up the Postmaster Grade-III posts by granting promotion to Grade-II officials and also by option from HSG-I officials after filling up all HSG-I posts
(v) Filing up of all vacant Grade II and Grade III posts promoting the Postmaster cadre official relaxing the minimum service condition.
(vi) Filling up 100% Senior Postmaster/Chief Postmaster posts which are earmarked for Postmaster cadre by Postmaster Cadre officials alone declaring it as a hierarchical promotion cadre of Postmaster Cadre.
(vii) Delay in holding LSG, HSG II and HSG – I DPCs and thereby denying the chance for giving option to Postmaster Grade – I, II & III to eligible officials.
(viii) Maintenance of up to date separate gradation list for PM Cadre officials.
In the minutes of the discussion held on 21.05.2012 the Secretary (Posts) has assured as follows:
“The issue was discussed at length and it was decided to review it after sometime keeping in view the merits and demerits of the proposal as well as the response of the officials for Postmasters Cadre.”
The minutes did not reflect the real spirit of discussion as it was assured to consider favourably the above items after long discussion. However, it is high time to review the above cases and settle favourably. The entire Postmaster Cadre officials are totally frustrated and disappointed due to the negative attitude of the administration towards them.
8. Problems of System Administrators
In the minutes of the Departmental Council JCM Standing Committee dated 02.02.2012 (communicated in letter dated 06.06.2012) for the 15 items pertaining to system Administrators including creation of separate cadre, it is furnished as follows:
“The issue is under the consideration of the cadre Restructuring Committee constituted under the chairmanship of DDG (P) vide Department’s office memo no. 01/04/2010-Sr dated 05.05.2011”
Finalization of the proposal by the Cadre Restructuring Committee is being delayed indefinitely. Recently, during the demonstration of IT Modernisation Project, the Staff side has repeatedly requested the Member (Technology) to create a separate cadre and absorb all the existing SAs as a onetime measure in the new cadre. Unfortunately no commitment was given regarding the creation of new cadre, except the assurance that the services of the existing system Administrators will be utilized in future also. It is high time to end the present uncertainty by creating a separate cadre for System Administrators.
9. Implementation of speed Post hubs and L1, L2 System
The High Power Committee appointed to discuss the issues under the Chairpersonship of then Secretary, Department of Posts assured the following before implementation of MNOP proposals.
(i) There will be no shifting of staff from L1 office to L2 office vice versa for three years.
(ii) Irregular or wrong identification of L1 office will be changed after discussion with the staff side.
But to our dismay both the promises were not kept. There is a complete violation and deviation of assurances. Further, eventhough directorate has issued instruction to the Chief PMGs regarding change of administrative jurisdiction of speed post hubs, certain Chief PMGs have not yet implemented it and still some of the speed post hubs are continuing under the administrative jurisdiction of postal superintendent.
Further, CRC & Speed post norms have been finalized without any consultation with staff side. The impracticable norms have been imposed upon violating the earlier decision and agreements on the subject.
10. MACP Related issues
The implementation of the Jodhpur CAT Judgment; i.e. non-counting of promotions acquired from one cadre to other through examination for MACP, Granting of MACP counting the total service rendered in each cadre etc has not been implemented resulting deprival of dues to the senior most promotees in the Department of Posts. This may kindly be considered.
11. Problems of APM Accounts/Accountants
The following demands in respect of PO & RMS Accountants have not been considered yet causing resentment and displeasure amidst the qualified hands.
(i) Proportionate distribution of APM Accounts posts among LSG, HSG II and HSG-I
(ii) Counting special allowance for pay fixation benefits to PO & RMS Accountants on promotion. Implementation of Karnataka High court order not only for a specific period but also till the withdrawal of the TBOP/BCR schemes in true spirit. The special allowance should be taken for pay fixation up to 31.08.2008 for TBOP/BCR officials.
(iii) Date of passing Accountants exam may be taken as the criteria for counting seniority for promotion, since no amendment has so far been issued to the statutory rules. Further the earlier passing of examination will have no relevance in future.
12. Filling up of all vacant posts
Even though Government of India has lifted ban on filling up of posts from 2009 onwards, and the Directorate has given repeated instructions to fill up all direct recruitment as well as promotional quota of vacancies up to 2012, in many circles posts are remaining unfilled. Similarly in Postal Accounts much delay in taking place in filling up of posts due to delay in finalization of the Recruitment process by staff selection commission. Action may be taken to fill up all vacant posts from 2009 onwards on top priority basis as the staff are reeling under the pressure of workload which in turn affects the efficiency of the services rendered by the Department of posts.
In conclusion, we hope that all the above issues will be given top most priority and the Hon’ble Secretary, Department of Posts, shall come forward for a negotiated settlement with the staff side in a time bound manner.
13. Non settlement of agreed items placed in the Departmental Council (JCM)
Most of the issues agreed in the last Departmental Council meeting held on 28.12.2012 have not been processed further. Many of them remain as it is. There is no serious action taken in mitigating the issues put forth in the departmental council meeting.
Awaiting early action
Yours faithfully,
SD/- SD/-
(D. Theagarajan) (M. Krishnan)
Secretary General, FNPO Secretary General, NFPE
Mob: 09444841440 Mob: 09447068125