ALL INDIA RETIRED BHARAT SANCHAR NIGAM LIMITED
EXECUTIVES' WELFARE ASSOCIATION
Central Headquarter, New Delhi

Registration no. is S/00/09/NE/2010 k

Edited by Sh. Rakesh Srivatava, Vice President-II & Editor, AIRBSNLEWA
email id: ksingh.ragm@rediffmail.com, srivastava_rks@yahoo.com

Updated on 25-05-2015: 12-30hrs	AIBSNLEA CHQ	CHQ Circulars	Important Orders	Pension Rules	WEST BENGAL PAGE

LATEST NEWS:::::: THE DRAFT CABINET MEMO IS READY AT ESTT WING AND WILL BE SENT TO DOT FIN TODAY(20-05-15). THE 60:40 CLAUSE IS BEING RELAXED AS PER THE LETTER WRITTEN BY SH S BEHURA. :::::::::::::::

30.12.2014:78.2% FILE STILL WITH INERNAL FINANCE OF DOT:Today Com Rakesh Srivastava Vice President enquired about the progress of the file containing Cabinet Memo for 78.2% implementation. It is understood that the file is lying with the sectional officers of Internal Finance of DOT since last 10 days or more. The officers are enjoying year ending leave and some progress is expected only after 02-1-2015.

26.12.2014:THE EMPLOYER CANNOT RECOVER EXCESS SALARY JUST BEFORE RETIREMENT ---- SC ORDERS: The Supreme Court of India in a landmark Judgment delivered on 18-12-2014 directed that "an employer cannot recover excess amount in case of a retired employee or one who is to retire within one year and where recovery process is initiated five years after excess payment." It is common practice of DOT Cells, where last pay drawn of the pensioners is being reduced by one or two increments by the concerned CCAs for so called wrong fixation etc. This judgment may extend some relief to them if perused citing the judgment. The operative part is reproduced below as has been summarized at the end of the judgment: (Civil Appeal No 11527 of 2014) "12. It is not possible to postulate all situations of hardship, which would govern employees on the issue of recovery, where payments have mistakenly been made by the employer, in excess of their entitlement. Be that as it may, based on the decisions referred to herein above, we may, as a ready reference, summarize the following few situations, wherein recoveries by the employers, would be impermissible in law:
(i) Recovery from employees belonging to Class-III and Class-IV service (or Group ‘C' and Group ‘D' service).
(ii) Recovery from retired employees, or employees who are due to retire within one year, of the order of recovery.
(iii) Recovery from employees, when the excess payment has been made for a period in excess of five years, before the order of recovery is issued.
(iv) Recovery in cases where an employee has wrongfully been required to discharge duties of a higher post, and has been paid accordingly, even though he should have rightfully been required to work against an inferior post.
(v) In any other case, where the Court arrives at the conclusion, that recovery if made from the employee, would be iniquitous or harsh or arbitrary to such an extent, as would far outweigh the equitable balance of the employer's right to recover." Read the Complete Order

AIRBSNLEWA WISHES

MERRY CHRISTMAS

ONE & ALL

24.12.2014: Sri Prahalad Rai Chief Mentor met Sh R.K.Misra DDG(SU/Estt.) DoT yesterday and discussed regarding 78.2% IDA pay fixation case of BSNL pensioners: DDG(Estt.) informed that the cabinet note on the advice of DoE has been prepared and sent to the internal finance of DoT for clearance and approval of the Hon'ble MOC &IT, it will be sent to nodal ministries for comments and then to the cabinet for approval. It is learnt that the file is still pending with the under secretary of Internal Finance. He immediately spoke to the concern officer of internal finance for an early clearance. Director(Estt.) Sh. Pracheesh khanna was also present in the meeting.

23.12.2014: First Circle Conference of Assam Circle AIRBSNLEWA: As scheduled the first circle conference of Assam Circle AIRBSNLEWA was held at multipurpose Hall, BSNL Panbazar, Guwahati under the presidentship of Com C R Baruah. The meeting was attended by about 70 pensioners from Guwahati, Silchar, Bongaigaon, Jorhat, Tezpur etc. From CHQ Com Amit Kumar Gupta AGS attended the conference. The conference starded at 11.30 hrs and continued upto 17.00 hours after the delicious lunch organized. The conference was also attended by Comrades Amitava Nath CS/AIBSNLEA, I H Mondal CS/SNEA, S Sharma CS/AIBDPA, B Deka CS/BSNLEU. In their deliberations they all have assured to extend all possible support for the cause of the pensioners. Report of the Convener ad hoc body was placed by com K K Das and accepted by the house. Financial report was placed by FS com Himadri Singha. Com Amit Gupta in his address appraised the house about the various problems pensioners are facing on getting the justified pension and approved medical facilities and actions being taken by this Association, He informed the house the latest position of 78.2% issue and the stand of AIRBSNLEWA to get the justice for 1.3 lakh deprived BSNL pensioners. The house endorsed the stand of the Association. The regular Circle Body was elected unanimously with Com C R Baruah, K K Das and Himadri Singha as President, Circle Secretary and Financial Secretary respectively. Circle Body Glimpses

22.12.2014: Comrade Chhidu Singh Deputy GS of AIBSNLPWA passed away on 20-12-2014 following a massive heart attack. He was a constant persuator of 78.2% issue and was a regular visitor of Sanchar Bhavan. From our side Com Rakesh Srivastava was always keeping contact with him. We condole his demise and convey our feelings to the bereaved family.

04.12.2014:NEWS ON PREPARATION OF CABINET MEMO ON 78,2% IDA MERGER:

Com Prahalad Rai, Chief Patron met DDG (Estt), DoT Shri R.K. Mishra yesterday and discussed regarding 78.2% Pay fixation case of BSNL pensioners. DDG (Estt) informed that a cabinet note on the basis of Deptt. of Expenditure clarification has been prepared and shortly it will be sent to DoT Internal Finance Wing for clearance and after the approval of Hon'ble MOC&IT it will be sent for inter-ministerial circulations for comments. After receiving the comments from nodal ministries the final Cabinet Note will be prepared and will be sent to the cabinet for approval. The process may be completed within two months time.

03.12.2014: Com Kishen Singh GS writes to Sri Rakesh Garg Secretary DoT, requesting not to overlook Supreme Court Judgment Dt 14-08-2013 causing immense financial loss to pensioners. Click For Letter Page1 2 3 Calculation sheet Supreme Court Order.

29.11.2014: Convenor Assam Circle Com K K Das has notified for 1st Assam Circle Conference of AIRBSNLEWA on 20th Dec 2014 at Pan Bazar Conference Hall at 11.00 AM, BSNL Guwahati. All Pensioners of Assam Circle are invited to attend the conference.

21.11.2014: Com Prahalad Rai GS AIBSNLEA and our Chief Patron writes to:-

i) Shri Rakesh Garg, Chairman Telecom Commission & Secretary Telecom, Department of Telecom, Govt. of India, New Delhi 110001 regarding issue of incorrect / false certificate by Department of Telecommunications under Gazette Notification G.S.R. 138(E) dated 3^rd March 2014 to facilitate payment of Pension to MTNL absorbed employees by Government of India at par with BSNL employees by amending Rule 37-A of CCS Pension Rules after circumventing the judgment and order of Hon'ble Delhi High Court dated 25/11/2006 in W.P. Nos.13690-91 of 2006: Demand for calling of fresh option from EX-DOT Employees to enable them to exercise their option for absorption in BSNL/ MTNL afresh based on informed choice consequent to Gazette Notification G.S.R. 138(E) dated 3^rd March 2014 - <<<Click here for letter>>>

(ii) Shri Rakesh Garg, Chairman Telecom Commission & Secretary Telecom, Department of Telecom, Govt. of India, New Delhi 110001 regarding overlooking the Supreme Court's Judgment on withholding of Pension and pensionary benefits (CA No. 6770 of 2013) Judgment delivered on 14-08-2013 while implementing the 78.2% IDA merger issue to the BSNL pensioners retired before 09-06-2013 - <<<Click here for letter>>> <<<Calculation Sheet>>> <<S C Judgment>>

16.11.2014: Com Prahalad Rai Chief Petron and Com Amit Gupta AGS AIRBSNLEWA met GM(Estt) BSNL on 14-11-2014 and discussed the problems faced by the pensioners in getting the reimbursement of outdoor medical treatment claims. Gm(Estt) advised to take up the issues with GM (Admn) BSNL CO. We also discussed the issue of handing over the custody of the service books of IDA pensioners to CCAs like CDA pensioners. This is required for proper maintenance of the service books which is being preserved by CCAs electronically. GM(Estt) decided to examine and also advised to take up with concerned CCAs by the circles.

15.11.2014: Com Prahalad Rai Chief Petron and Com Amit Gupta AGS AIRBSNLEWA met DDG(Estt) DoT Sh R K Misra on 12-11-2014 and discussed 78.2% IDA fixation for pensioners issue. The discussion lasted for more than 2 hours. All the points related to the issue has been discussed. It is understood that Com Kishen Singh's and Prahalad Rai's letter dated 29-10-2014 addressed to Secy(T) has been carefully studied by DoT officers but they have decided to ignore the points raised and pursue further in the line of the DoE's memo only. Accordingly the cabinet note has already been prepared and being processed for inter ministerial circulation and comments as per the procedure. The letters are being ignored as we are the lone voice against such injustice of undue pension curtailment. DoT is in impression that everybody is in hurry to get the present benefit for which they are ready to sacrifice the due pension arrears. We strongly protested to such views and pointed out that even the Supreme Court has given several judgments against curtailment of pension and pensionary benefits. DDG(Estt) appreciated our view and mentioned that he has to abide by the DoE's memo for the present. We mentioned that in that case the only option for the pensioners are to go to court only . But the effected pensioners are more than one lakh in which many family pensioners are also there. It will never be possible for each one of them to go to court, as a result ultimately majority of pensioners will face deprivation only. We requested DDG(Estt) to do justice to this huge number of pensioners and not to deprive them by curtailing the due pension arrears and pensionary benefits like Gratuity ,leave encashment and commutation which are also part of pension and having property right as per supreme court's order. He assured to consider.

15.11.2014: Com Prahalad Rai Chief Petron and Com Amit Gupta AGS AIRBSNLEWA met CMD BSNL on 11-11-2014 and discussed regarding Extending the benefit of 78.2% IDA merger to the pensioners retired between 1-1-2007 to 09-06-2013. They explained that after the recent clarification by DoE, pensionary benefits to the post 2007 pensioners cannot be paid on notional pay. Now it is the responsibility of BSNL to actually revise the last pay drawn so that they get the benefit. We requested to examine the proposal to actually revise the salary of the retiring month where the pensioners are ready to receive the extra amount in terms of recharge vouchers. CMD agreed to examine the proposal.

15.11.2014: Com Prahalad Rai Chief Petron, Com Kishen Singh GS and Com Amit Gupta AGS AIRBSNLEWA met GM(ESTT) BSNL on 11-11-2014 and discussed regarding Extending the benefit of 78.2% IDA merger to the pensioners retired between 1-1-2007 to 09-06-2013. They explained that after the recent clarification by DoE, pensionary benefits to the post 2007 pensioners cannot be paid on notional pay. Now it is the responsibility of BSNL to actually revise the last pay drawn so that they get the benefit. We requested to examine the proposal to actually revise the salary of the retiring month where the pensioners are ready to receive the extra amount in terms of recharge vouchers. GM(Estt) agreed to examine the proposal with other concerned officers of BSNL CO

15.11.2014: Com Kishen Singh writes to DOT and BSNL for extending full benefit of pension and pensionary benefits to the pensioners retired before 09-06-2014 while extending the benefit of 78.2% IDA merger to the pensioners. Letter to DOT BSNL

09.11.2014: AIRBSNLEWA, West Bengal State Branch has taken up with the Calcutta Telephones administration the issue of poor medical facilities to the pensioners and suggested improved method for paying outdoor medical bills and also alternate arrangement for Indoor Medical Treatment in absence of cashless system. Click for letter 1 letter 2
Other Circles also may take up if same problem like CTD exists in their circles.

30.10.2014: AIBSNLEA has written to:
1) Shri Rakesh Garg, Secretary DoT for implementation of 78.2 % IDA from 1-1-2007 to pre 2007 pensioners and from date of retirement to post 2007 pensioners as a fresh cabinet memo will be prepared now. They also requested DoT to pay the retiring month's increased salary to post 2007 pensioners in terms of mobile recharge vouchers so that they get the pensionary benefits like gratuity , leave encashment etc. CLICK to View the Letter.
2) Shri A N Roy CMD BSNL requesting to pay the retiring month's increased salary to post 2007 pensioners in terms of mobile recharge vouchers so that they get the pensionary benefits like gratuity , leave encashment etc. while BSNL will not suffer any financial problem. CLICK

30.10.2014: West Bengal State Branch hold "Vijoya Sanmiloni" (Traditional Get Together after Durga Puja ) at CTO auditorium Kolkata yesterday. About 250 members of AIRBSNLEWA attended the get together. Present Status of 78.2 % and actions being taken by the Association was explained to the members. Com Sitanshu Sarkar State Secretary explained the actions being taken to streamline medical facilities to pensioners in West Bengal. The get togather was also attended by Com Sunil Datta OS, CORTO WB. Beautiful cultural programme was followed by the pensioners, and their family members. The content and the quality of the cultural programme was superb although performed by non professionals. Com Manas Roy and Com P P Mukherjee co ordinated the entire programme which was presided by Com D Biswas President. CLICK

On 78.2% issue the house decided to draw the attention of the Chief Justice of India regarding the ignorance of DoT about the apex courts judgment and by sending following individual letter to the Hon'ble Chief Justice. About 200 letters were immediately signed and being dispatched to Hon'ble chief Justice.

APPEAL TO THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF INDIA FROM A GOVERNMENT PENSIONER

To
Hon'ble Mr Justice H L Dattu
Hon'ble Chief Justice Of India
5, Krishna Menon Marg
New Delhi 110011

Hon'ble Sir,

The Supreme Court of India has passed a Judgment on 14-08-2013 Declaring Pension and pensionary benefits as property which cannot be curtailed or withheld by executive order. (C A No 6771 of 2013, SLP(C) No 1428 of 2009).
But Hon'ble Sir, Department of Telecommunications is not giving any cognisance to this Judgement and withholding substantive amount of pension and pensionary benefits of pre2007 and post2007 IDA pensioners and Family Pensioners retired from BSNL while processing to implement 50% IDA merger, amounting to 78.2% IDA merger from 1-1-2007.
I, being an aged man cannot afford to fight against the mighty Government Department in court of law against this deprivation. I neither have the monetary and other resources nor the mobility to do so.
Hon'ble Sir, Kindly ensure that the judgment is honoured by Department of Telecom and its officers.
With Kind Regards,

Yours Faithfully

_Signature, Name and Residential Address

Mob No:

20.10.2014: REPLY OF Dept of Expenditure to Dept of Telecom on 78.2% IDA merger issue for both pre 2007 and post 2007 pensioners. Click for the text

DoT's proposal for 78,2% IDA merger for pre and post 2007 pensioners from 10-6-2013 is supported. However DoT is advised to seek cabinet approval for the same
For post 2007 pensioners, leave encashment and DCRG on notional pay is denied

16.10.2014: 78.2 % File is returning Back to DoT : Today Com Rakesh Srivastava our VP enquired again at DoE. It is informed to him that the 78.2% IDA merger file is being sent back to DoT with recommendations of fresh cabinet approval for both Pre and Post 2007 pensioners. There may be some other conditions also which will be known when the file is received by DoT.

15.10.2014: Secretary DoE cleared the 78.2% IDA file : Today Com Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President enquired at Department of Expenditure about the status of 78.2% IDA merger file. It is reported that the Secretary DoE has cleared the recommendation and presently it is with Director (Admn) DoE. It is therefore expected that the file may reach DoT by this weekend.

30.09.2014: LATEST POSITION OF 78.2% ISSUE: Vice President Com Rakesh Srivastava today enquired about the 78,2% IDA file at Dept of Expenditure. It is learnt that the Secretary DoE has not yet cleared the file and marked it to Joint Secretary DoE for certain clarifications who is presently on leave and may join tomorrow.

AIRBSNLEWA WISHES ALL THE VIEWERS

Subh Navaratri ,Happy Dussera, Happy Diwali

04.10.2014: IDA is likely to be increased by 6.9% from 1-10-2014 as per ALL India Consumer Price Index of June, July and August 2014. Hence total IDA will be raised from 91.3% to 98.2% (may be 98.1% also if not rounded up to next higher figure) from 1-10-2014.

22.09.2014: BSNL CO issues guidelines on application of yearly ceiling limit for settlement of outdoor medical bills overlapping two financial years. VIEW

18.09.2014: ATTENTION PENSIONERS OF CALCUTTA TELEPHONES: Pension Adalat will held shortly. Please submit your any pension related disputes to Jt CCA, 8 Hare Street, Kolkata 700001, 2nd floor by 29-09-2014. Pl apply with all relevant documents.

10.09.2014: Sri Prahalad Rai our chief Patron, met DDG (Estt) DoT yesterday and discussed regarding SCOVA meeting held on 5.9.2014 and the status of 78.2% IDA pay fixation case of BSNL pensioners. DDG (Estt.) informed that DoT informed to SCOVA meeting that the clarifications on 78.2% pay fixation have been submitted to DoE and the reply /clearance from DoE is still awaited. DoE didn't submit any reply on this issue to SCOVA meeting. However, he assured to issue reminder to DoE on this issue.

05-09-2014: It is reliably learnt that in today's SCOVA meeting, the official representative of Department of Expenditure has assured that the decision of DoE will be conveyed to DoT within a week.

04-09-2014: SCOVA (Standing Committee Of Voluntary Organisations) meeting is scheduled to be held tomorrow (05-09-2014) in which the 78.2% IDA merger issue to be discussed. The issue is listed at Sl no 10 of the Action Taken Report issued by DoP&PW VIEW

01
.09.2014:
DOP&PW has notified 4th amendment to CCS Pension Rules 1972 . Read

29.08.2014: As Reported in AIBDPA website:

"Com. P. Asokababu, CHQ Vice President AIBDPA, met Shri. Vijay Kumar Singh, Director (Administration) and urged for early decision in the matter. The Director has stated that they have taken decision to seek cabinet approval for extending the benefit to those retired between 01-01-2007 and 09-06-2013 also because of the 60-40 issue. The DOT had already decided to seek cabinet approval for the pre 2007 retirees. Now, the Department of Expenditure will send the file back to the DOT to prepare the cabinet note in this regard."

29.08.2014: Chief Patron Sh Prahalad Rai, GS AIRBSNLEWA Sh. Kishan Singh met DDG(Estt.) DoT Sh. R.K. Mishra and Director(Estt.), DoT Pracheesh Khanna yesterday and discussed regarding status of 78.2% IDA pay fixation to BSNL pensioners. DDG(Estt.) informed that clearance from DoE has not been received on this issue. The efforts are being made to receive early clarifications. However, he mentioned that SCOVA (Standing Committee on Voluntary Agencies) is fixed up on 05.09.2014 wherein the status of this issue will be explained by DoE.

18.08.2014: Com GS Sh Kishan Singh wrote to Sh Rakesh Garg Secretary (Telecom) demanding invitation of fresh fresh option from Ex-DOT employees for absorption in MTNL or BSNL afresh based on informed choice consequent to new gazette notification G.S.R. 138(E) dated 3rd March 2014. Click for details page 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

07.08.2014: Our Chief Mentor Sh Prahalad Rai met Director (Estt), DoT Shri Pracheesh Khanna on 06-08-2014 and discussed regarding 78.2% IDA Pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners. Director (Estt) informed that the reply from Deptt of Expenditure on this issue is still awaited. He assured that he will talk the concern Director on 07-08-2014, DoE for an early clearance.

It is understood that DoE is advising to DoT for taking cabinet approval even for the BSNL Pensioners who retired after 01.01.2007 in view of the Pension liability increased more than 60% of the BSNL receipts. He will shortly meet the concern officer of DoE for early clearance.

01-08-2014: NEWS ON 78.2% IDA ISSUE AS REPORTED BY AIBDPA in WEBSITE
"Com. K. G. Jayaraj, General Secretary has contacted the Department of Expenditure on 31st August and has learnt that they are proposing to seek cabinet approval for 78.2% IDA merger for those retired between 01-01-2007 and 09-06-2013 also. According to them , the pension paid to BSNL retirees is more than 60% of BSNL payments after 2010 and therefore cabinet approval is necessary. CHQ is trying to meet the higher officers at the Department of Expenditure to avoid such an eventuality. "
Our CHQ will also meet DoE officers next week to ascertain the situation

21-07-2014: CHQ RECOGNIZES THE CIRCLE BODY OF UP(EAST) CIRCLE. VIEW

17.07.2014: OLD ORDERS ON RESPONSIBILITIES OF PENSION PAYMENT AND 60:40 ISSUE: After uploading the news of the details of DoT's reply to DoE, we are receiving many queries asking for more details and status of issue. Hence we decided to bring some old orders issued by earlier Secretaries of DoT and also an order passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court to the notice of all. Click to read the orders

First DO Letter was on 15-03-2005 from Nripendra Misra, the then Secretary Dot to Sh A.K.Sinha the then CMD BSNL. It is clearly stated in para iii that "In respect of official/officers absorbed in BSNL, BSNL will be liable to pay the pension contribution in accordance with FR 116. The liability on account of pension payable will be that of Government of India"
Second Letter was on 05-01-2009 from Siddhartha Behura the then Secretary DoT to CMD BSNL and others. Para 2 of the letter states "In this context, it is hereby clarified that the above said limit of 60% is for normal funding. This does not in anyway distract from the fact that the ultimate liability towards pensionary benefits including family pension to the BSNL employees (except those recruited after 1-10-2000) as per sub rule 21 of rule 37A of CCS pension rules 1972, lies with the Govt of India. If BSNL, for any reason, is not able to contribute to the extent prescribed in para 1 above, the Government of India will still pay the admissible pensionary benefits including family pension to BSNL employees (except those recruited after 1-10-200)
The Supreme Court of India in civil petition no 35 of 2006, ordered on30-07-2008 that " The respondents are directed to ensure that every incumbent should get the pension from the Bank in first week of every month. As and when there is a revision in DA and in pay scales then the effect of that revision should be ensured promptly ........"

But DoT while replying the point no 2 of DoE's query has not only suppressed the above commitments of DoT to the BSNL authorities, but also misinformed DoE that "It was also decided that any amount exceeding these items shall be Bourne by BSNL". As per the above orders BSNL's liability is only to pay the pension contribution as per FR 116 for ensuring payment of pension. The payment of license fee, dividend etc is for funding only. But in reply to DoE, Dot has not mentioned anything about regular pension contribution being paid BSNL.

We shall be taking up the above points with DoT and DoE shortly and also request all others including Joint Forum to take up for quick settlement of the issue.

14.07.2014: DOT is paying 2400 crores more to the BSNL pensioners than 60:40 formula: Sri Prahalad Rai, Chief Mentor and Com Amit Kumar Gupta, AGS AIRBSNLEWA met Shri Pracheesh Khanna, Director (Estt) DoT yesterday and discussed regarding reply to DoE on 78.2% IDA pay fixation of BSNL pensioners. Director (Estt) informed that reply from DoT to DoE has been sent on 11^th July, 2014. On the issue of 60%:40% he mentioned that as per DoT internal finance clarification the pension paid by the Govt. from 01.10.2000 to 31.03.2010 was less than the 60% of the revenue receipt under specified heads from BSNL but the same was reversed from the year 2011-12 on wards due to reduction in revenue receipt and increase in pension liability. He further mentioned that presently the receipt from BSNL to DoT are about Rs. 6000 Crores per annum and the pension being paid is also about Rs 6000 Crores. Hence, the Rs 2400 Crores (40% content) are being paid more by DoT on pension payment as per 60% : 40% Order of cabinet. He also informed that the job of preparation of cabinet memo for pre 2007 pensioners will be undertaken only after the file is favourably cleared by DoE. He agreed to pursue the case with DoE after one week. Read the full reply of DoT

Following is extract of reply by DOT on 60:40 issue:-

15.07.2014: New Circle Body of AIRBSNLEWA (ad hoc) formed in Assam Circle with Com Kajal Kanti Das as covenor and Com Himadri Singha as Tresurer. Circle Conference is scheduled in October 2014. Click for details

08.07.2014: DPE issued orders for revising IDA from 88.4% to 91.3% w.e.f.01.07.2014 <<<Click here for order>>>

04.07.2014: AIRBSNLEWA Circle Body formed in UP(East) Circle. An well organised General Body meeting of “ALL INDIA RETIRED BSNL EXECUTIVES' WELFARE ASSOCIATION” UP(East) Circle was held on 04-07-2014 at Lucknow under the chairmanship of Shri S.M.Abbas (Retd. AGM) in the presence of Shri Pradeep Goel, AGS, AIRBSNLEWA, New Delhi. Shri P.C. Rastogi, Circle secretary AIBSNLEA UP(East) Circle was also present.

Shri Pradeep Goyal, AGS AIRBSNLEWA welcome the members and addressed the house. He informed the latest status of Pension revision case on 78.2% IDA merger.

Meeting was addressed bySri Pradeep Goel, AGS, AIRBSNLEWA, new Circle secretary AIBSNLEA UP(East) Circle, Shri D.K.Srivastava, Circle Treasurer AIBSNLEA UP(East), Shri D.C.Gupta, DS AIBSNLEA, Shri Pallab Bose, ex Circle Secretary SNEA(India) UP(East) Circle, and many other Retd. BSNL executives.

Shri S.M.Abbas, Shri. Pallab Bose and Shri. C.S.Verma have been elected by the house unanimously as Circle President, Circle Secretary & Circle Treasurer respectively. Sri P.C. Rastogi, Circle Secretary has been nominated as Patron.
The Asstt. General Secretary, AIRBSNLEWA, congratulated all the elected members. The meeting was concluded after vote of thanks by President Shri S.M. Abbas.

04.07.2014: Yesterday Sh Prahalad Rai Chief Mentor, Sh. Kishan Singh GS, Sh K.N.Mehra AGS(HQ) along with Sh H. S. Bhatia & Sh M. L. Shankhwar (Kanpur) of AIRBSNLEWA met Member(S), DoT regarding 78.2% IDA pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners. Member(S) mentioned that the case is pending with Member (F), DoT for the information to be given & BSNL receipts and pension liability do not exceed more than 60% of BSNL receipts in terms of taxes / license fee. He further mentioned that he is continuously talking to Member (F) for the last week for early clarification & he further spoke to Member (F) on telephone on this issue for early reply in our presence. Member (F) agreed to discuss the matter yesterday itself. After the meeting was over with them, Member(S) met Member(F) and discussed the matter for an early solution. It seems that Internal Finance of DoT has apprehension that the pension liability is more than the receipts from the BSNL. Hence, they are calculating correctly to reply DoE. DOT reply to DoE is expected in this month itself.

02.07.2014: 78.2% IDA issue still with DOT Finance: Yesterday Sh Prahalad Rai, Chief Mentor discussed with DDG (TPF) DoT Ms Darshna M.Dabrawal and requested for early reply to DoT pension cell to further reply to DoE. DDG (TPF) mentioned that matter is under active consideration to higher up in DoT and shortly finance cell comments will be given to pension cell of DoT.
He then discussed the with Director (Staff) DoT Sh.Prachees Khanna regarding 78.2% IDA pay fixation of BSNL pensioners. Director (Staff) informed that matter is still pending in the internal finance of DoT for clarification on receipts from BSNL in terms of Taxes and license fee etc..He assured to issue reminder to DDG (TPF) DoT.

30-06-2014 Sh M.F.Farooqui Secy. DOT superannuates today without settling the 78.2% issue. However we wish him a peaceful retired life.

30-06-2014 IDA to be increased by 2.9% from 1st July 2014. (i.e. 88.4% to 91.3%).It was earlier reduced by 2.1% from 1-4-2014.

26-06-2014 : Forum of BSNL Unions and Associations decision on 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners: The Forum in its meeting decided to pursue vigorously 78.2% issue with DOT. Apart from DOT persuasion is required with DOE also which is not mentioned in the decision. However we are eager to see the vigorosity. It is also learnt that the concerned file is still with Member (F) office in DOT.

25-06-2014: Bharat Central Pensioners Confederation (Bharat Pensioner Samaj) finalizes the memorandum to be submitted to 7th CPC Click to view

22-06-2014: DPE issues clarification regarding introduction of pension scheme and post superannuation Medical Benefits in CPSEs Read the details

21.06.2014: Meeting of Sh Prahalad Rai with Different Officers of DOT on 78.2% issue: Yesterday Sh Prahalad Rai our Chief Patron met Sh V Umashanker, Jt. Secy (Telecom) DOT and discussed regarding 78.2% IDA Pay Fixation to BSNL Pensioners. Jt. Secy (T) informed that it has been clarified by him on file that arrears will not be paid to BSNL serving employees prior to 10.6.2013 and similar treatment is required to be given to the BSNL pensioners also by giving notional pay fixation w.e.f. 1.1.2007 to 10.6.2013. The actual pay (pension) may be given from 10.6.2013 as already given to the serving employees.

Further he met Sh Pracheesh Khanna, Director (Staff) DOT and discussed regarding 78.2% Pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners . Director (Staff) informed that the case has been sent to internal Finance of DOT to comment on 60% receipts from BSNL in terms of TAXs, license fee etc to reply the query of DOE. He also mentioned that the Internal Finance opinion given earlier has been accepted by pension cell i.e the 78.2% Pay fixation to BSNL pension retired after 1.1.2007 do not require cabinet approval but who retired before 1.1.2007 for them cabinet approval is needed. He assured that as soon as the comments of IF Cell are received the reply to DOE will be sent and after DOE clearance the further action will be taken.

Then he met Ms Darshna M. Dabarwal, DDG(TPF) and requested for early comments on 60% receipts from BSNL to DOT. DDG(TPF) informed that yesterday only the case has been received from Member (Finance) and she is yet to see the file. However, she mentioned that Member (Finance ) has already advised her to give early comments and she will sent file to Pension Cell within 2-3 days.

19-06-2014: DoTs revised guideline on commencement of pension to avoid delay click

18-06-2014: AIBDPA has reported in their website the reason for delay in sending the 78.2% file to DoE as below:
"The file was put up with the clarifications sought by the DOE to the Member,( Finance ) who opined that the reply in repect of the 60-40 issue is not clear and therefore to be referred to the PSU section for a convincing reply."

17-06-2014:Sh Kishen Singh GS writes to Sh Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon MOC and IT on continuous deprivation of the BSNL pensioners retired between 1-1-2000 to 10-06-2013 by denial of 78.2% IDA merger from 1-1-2007. Click page 1 page 2

16-06-2014: 78.2% IDA FILE BACK TO DOT (FINANCE) AGAIN: Sh Rakesh Srivastava, our Vice President spoke to Sh Pracheesh Khanna Director (Establishment) DOT today. He informed that the 78.2% IDA file is now again has gone to Member (Finance) after notings of Addl Secy (Establishment) and Member (Services). The file will be sent to DoE after it returns from DoT finance.

13-06-2014: AIBDPA quoting the meeting of their GS with Sh P. Khanna Director (EST) DOT today, reported in their website the following:

"The Director has assured that the file with the required clarifications, sought by the Department of Expenditure will be sent to them today itself. The following points are cleared.

1.Cabinet approval will be sought for the pre 2007 pensioners, as they were not given 50% IDA merger, consequent on which the IDA has increased from 68.8% to 78.2%.

2.PSU section in DOT has ruled out arrears as per the condition in order of BSNL dated 10-6-2013,to the effect that “NO arrears will be paid”. They have not considered the DO letter written by CMD, BSNL to Secretary, DOT in this regard. So notional fixation only will be given from 01-01-2007 and actual payment will be made from 10-06-2013."

It is not clear whether point no 2 is applicable only for post 2007 pensioners or for both pre and post 2007 pensioners but it appears that it is applicable for both. The grievances raised by our members in "interact with PM" portal is having its desired effect. DOT has avoided their earlier plan of referring the issue to BSNL for "official version" and thereby also avoided considerable delay. It seems that there is pressure on DOT to settle the issue quickly. Our leaders will meet the officers of DOT early next week and further developments will be reported - AIRBSNLEWA

11.06.2014: Yesterday GS,AIBSNLEA Sh Prahalad Rai, our chief mentor and AFS, AIBSNLEA Sh Alkendra Singh met Shri Pracheesh Khanna, Director (Staff), DoT and discussed regarding implementation of 78.2% of IDA Pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners. Director (Staff) mentioned that file has been received from internal finance of DoT through Member (Fin) and DDG (FEB) with remarks mentioning that :

1.For BSNL Pensioners retired prior to 01.01.2007, their pension revision with 78.2 IDA fixation needs fresh cabinet approval and

2. after 01.01.2007 to 10.06.2013 retired BSNL Pensioners may get 78.2% pay fixation in case BSNL management decides to make payments of arrear and DoT revises the Presidential Directive already issued on 10.06.2013 accordingly.

They pleaded and submitted the copies of the agreement signed between the Union representatives and BSNL Management on 13.06.2012 and the copy of the DO letter of CMD BSNL addressed to Secretary (T) on 21.10.2013 where CMD has written "In view of above facts, I would request you to kindly reconsider the decision of payment of arrears to the BSNL employees for the period 01.01.2007 to 09.06.2013 so that the moral of the employees of BSNL get a positive boost at this time of difficult financial position of the company". Click for full text of CMD'S letter
Agreement with JF 13-06-2012
Director (Staff) then mentioned that in case the quarries made by Finance Cell get satisfied by this CMD letter, then further letter may not be sent to BSNL for clarification. He assured that final decision on this issue will be taken in this week it self for further necessary action.

APPEAL TO MEMBERS AND ALL DEPRIVED PENSIONERS: “Interact with Hon'ble PM Page” at www.pmindia.nic.in or www.pmindia.gov.in portal has provided a platform to every common citizen of this country to make a direct interaction with PM and submit his grievances. It has been informed that PMO public response unit shall be reviewing these submissions and guide the authorities to take necessary action to ensure that grievances are settled. We request each and every deprived pensioners to submit their grievances on 78.2% IDA merger or any other pension related problems and suggestions directly to this portal so that the deprivation attracts new government's attention and they take all the necessary actions. It appears to be a better way than sending the letters and memorandums to PMO and other ministers. Please click on Interact with Hon'ble pm, select "grievances" in the subject field, fill up your name and email id (address not compulsory) and copy-paste the following lines in "your queries/ comments" field, fill up "verification code" and then submit.

Subject Denial of fifty per cent IDA Merger by Department of Telecommunication to all BSNL Pensioners retiring between 1^st October 2000 and 9^th June 2013 as given to all the serving BSNL Employees with effect from 10^th June 2013
Respected Sir, Department of Telecommunications has allowed fifty per cent IDA Merger amounting to 78.2 per cent IDA with effect from 1^st January 2007 to all the serving employees in BSNL by issuing order on 10th June 2013 but till date even after expiry of one year the benefit is not extended to about one lakh retired BSNL employees who were ex DoT employees absorbed in BSNL. The respective file is a victim of red tape within DoT and also with other departments like Department of Expenditure etc. Kindly help the BSNL pensioners retiring between 1^st October 2000 and 9^th June 2013 who are solely dependent on their pension only, which is paid by Government of India. With Kind Regards

Alternatively members may send by post the appeal pre 2007pensioners post 2007 pensioners

Kindly respond and also inform all other deprived pensioners like you to respond.

10-06-2014: 78.2%- Back to Square One ???

AIBDPA in their website reports the following developments:
"1.The file is being processed and certain clarification is again being sought from BSNL regarding exact conditions of the agreement with BSNL managment and the unions on 78.2% IDA merger.
2..DOT has decided to seek cabinet approval for extending the benefit to pre 2007 BSNL pensioners.
3.Most probably the Presidential order may be modified since there is no provision to revise the pension notionally. "

Hence all the proposals processed by DoT with DoP&PW and DoE over a period of last one year have become redundant and the issue will be processed fresh with new proposals for cabinet approval. -AIRBSNLEWA

06-06-2014: Forum for Union and Association submitted a 10 point memorandum to Hon'ble Sh. Ravi Shankar Prasad, MOC & IT. First nine points are about BSNL viability. 10th point is the only HR issue demanding immediate settlement of 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners. We are extremely thankful to Sh P. Rai GS/AIBSNLEA, our chief mentor, Com VAN Numboodri, Convenor and all other Forum leaders for giving due importance to this issue. Click for the memorandum.

05.06.2014: GS, AIBSNLEA writes to Ms. Annie Moraes, Member (Finance), Telecom Commission, Department of Telecommunication, Sanchar Bhavan, 20, Ashoka Road, New Delhi regarding 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners <<<Click here for letter>>>

04.06.2014: 78.2% IDA issue of pensioners: Sh Prahlad Rai, Chief Patron and Shri Kishan Singh, GS met DDG (FEB), DoT Shri S.K. Tiwari yesterday and discussed regarding 78.2% IDA Pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners. DDG (FEB) mentioned that matter is under consideration in his office and draft note has been prepared which will be sent to Member (Finance) tomorrow because for last two days Member(F) was on leave. He clarified that as per Member (Finance) view, case is not required to be send to cabinet for fresh approval but as per his own view it needs cabinet approval.
It was explained to DDF(FEB) that OM dated 15.02.1011 IDA pension revision order was issued for the BSNL pensioners who retired before 01.01.2007 wherein cabinet approval for pay fixation was taken on 68.8% at par BSNL's serving employees and now BSNL employees are given 78.2% IDA pay fixation w.e.f 01.01.2007, hence the pension should also be revised notionally as per 78.2% fitment benefit.
In case of BSNL pensioners retired during 01.01.2007 to 10.06.2013, pay fixation has to be done as the serving employees of BSNL got it.
DDG (FEB) was convinced that BSNL pensioners who retired during 01.01.2007 to 10.06.2013 needs only pay fixation on 78.2% at par with BSNL's serving employees but for BSNL pensioners retired before 01.01.2007, cabinet approval on pay fixation on 78.2% may be required. However, he assured that tomorrow, he will put up a consolidated note to Member (Finance) for approval. We requested to settle the issue at DoT level only since 78.2% IDA, DPE order has already approved by GOM/cabinet. DDG (FEB) assured an early decision on this issue.

31-05-2014: About 50 members of WB circle of AIRBSNLWEA met Sh Prahlad Rai, Chief Patron of AIRBSNLEWA on 29-05-2014. He was on organizational tour at Kolkata of as GS of AIBSNLEA. He was felicited with flower bouquet and sweets. The meeting was for about an hour. On 78.2% IDA merger issue, Sh Rai in his address referred his recent meeting with Member (F) DoT, where it was felt that the Member (F) is also of the opinion of ultimately referring the issue to cabinet as in earlier case for 68.8% IDA merger for pension revision cabinet approval was taken. Member (F) further mentioned in the meeting that the pension revision order dated 15-03-2011 was issued with cabinet approval for 68.2% IDA merger only although at that time decision of 78.2% IDA merger was also approved. Hence necessity of cabinet approval is there. However finally she pointed out that the file will be sent to DoE with the opinion that fresh cabinet approval is not required as Cabinet has already approved the merger of 78.2% IDA for all. After that if DoE feels that fresh cabinet approval is still required then the file will be sent to cabinet, otherwise if DoE agrees with the view then orders will be issued.

Members present in the meeting pointed out that the pension revision order dated 15-03-2011 is applicable to pre 2007 pensioners. The pensioner who retired between 1-1-2007 to 10-06-2013 are not coming under the purview of this pension revision order. There issue is pay revision from 1-1-2007 merging 78.2% IDA as per the order issued on 10-06-2013, which will revise their last pay drawn and subsequently the pension amount. As because the pay arrears are not being paid at present from 1-1-2007 to 10-06-2013, DoT had proposed to revise there pension based on notionally fixed last pay, which DOP&PW has already approved. Hence for them no fresh cabinet approval is required. They further pointed out that for 68.8% IDA merger from 1-1-2007, the order was issued on a later date of 27-02-2009 still the persons retired between 1-1-2007 and 27-02-2009 did not face any difficulty as their pay was actually revised from 1-1-2007 along with the serving employees, last pay drawn was also revised and paid and pension was also revised. But for pre 2007 pensioners the case was processed separately and ultimately separate order was issued on 15-3-2011. For 78.2% IDA merger the present difference is only that the revised pay is not actually paid, for which DoP&PW has already approved pension revision based on notional pay drawn. Therefore DoT can easily settle the issue of Post 2007 pensioners.

Sh Prahalad Rai assured the members that on his return to Delhi, he will again meet with Member (F) with CHQ of AIRBSNLEWA and discuss this point. Members expressed their happiness over the activities of CHQ of AIRBSNLEWA and the way they are pursuing the issue by personally meeting the officers of DoT.

29-05-2014:Pension Adalat for settlement of all pension disputes pensioners: All the BSNL pensioners/family pensioners who are drawing pension from CCA (Merut) U.P (West) may please read the News (notice) published in Hindustan (HINDI) newspaper on date 29/5/2014 which is attached herewith . They are requested to send their Grievances upto 17 June 2014 by addressing to Group Captain Ramesh Mishra (joint controller) O/O The controller of communication accounts, U.P (west) Circle, Brahmpuri Telecommunication Bhawan Delhi RoadMeerut – 250002. The Pension Adalat will be held on 30/06/2014 between 11 hours to 15hours. They should avail this oppertunity to highlight the grievance of non settlement of 78.2% IDA merger issue. Click for the notice

28.05.2014: GS, AIBSNLEA writes to Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon'ble Minister of Communication, IT, Law and Justice, Govt. of India, Sanchar Bhawan, 20, Ashoka Road, New Delhi regarding non implementation of the Supreme Court's Judgment on withholding of Pension and pensionary benefits - (CA No 6770 of 2013) - Judgment delivered on 14-08-2013 <<<Click here for letter>>>

27-05-2014: As scheduled Sh Prahalad Rai Chief Mentor and Sh Kishen Singh GS met Member (F) DoT on 26-05-2014 to understand the status of 78.2% IDA fixation issue of pensioners. Their report of meeting is as below:
"We expressed our serious concern against extreme delay in sending the reply to the DoE to their queries. Member (Fin.) appreciated our concern and mentioned that matter ia under consideration to DoT for sending a proper reply to DoE. She explained that IDA pension revision order was issued on 15.03.2011 of BSNL pensioners which has cabinet approval on 68.8% IDA pay fixation. The 78.2% IDA pay fixation order was issues later on 2^nd April-2009 which has no reference in this IDA pension revision order though DPE took approval from cabinet to revise the pay fixation from 68.8% to 78.2%. Now, since BSNL has given the 78.2% pay fixation to serving employees and on that basis DoT has to revise the pay fixation from 68.8% to 78.2% for BSNL pensioners also. The presidential directive may be issued for BSNL pensioners on notional basis as per clearance given by DoP & W . However, she assured to take decision in this week itself for sending the reply to DoE."

Further they also met Jt. Secy.(T) Sh. Y. Umashankar for which they report:
"JST mentioned that since 78.2% IDA pay fixation order of DPE has the approval of cabinet , further cabinet approval is not required as per his opinion and he assured to discuss the matter with Secy(T)."

23-05-2014: Status of 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners: Sh Prahalad Rai Chief Mentor and Sh Kishen Singh GS went to DoT today to meet Member (F) for finding out the developments of the issue. Member (F) was busy in Telecom Commission meeting and was not available. Still our leaders waited for her and finally could meet her for a while. Member (F) requested them to come on next Monday (26-05) afternoon as she will be busy whole day. It is gathered that the file is still with Member (F) only. It may be noted that the file is with DoT finance from 28-04-2014, and members may recall the apprehension posted by us on 13-05-2014. However our leader will meet Member (F) on 26-05-2014, and the developments will be uploaded.

19-05-2014: As reported by " All India BSNL Pensioners' Association, Chennai on 78.2 % issue in their website. "Com.Muthiyalu Org.Secy,Com Gunasekaran Treasurer CHQ and Com.Ramarao Circle Secy Tn circle met Mr.Farooqi Secy. DOT today at 0915 AM (19/05/2014) in the chamber of CGM Chennai Telephones and requested to expedite the reply on the queries raised by the Dept of Expenditure. DOT secy assured to expedite and he is firm that Cabinet approval is not required for the 78.2 %." Our leaders will meet DoT officers this week to find out the status, which will be uploaded immediately.

19-05-2014: DOT issues order extending pesnsionary benefit to MTNL employees from 01-10-2000 under rule 37A like BSNL employees. Click for Order

13-05-2014: The stalemate over the issue of 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners continues in DoT. The related file is lying with Member(F) for last two weeks or so. We met Member(F) twice during this period but it has not been cleared yet inspite of several assurances that it was being attended on priority and shall be cleared soon. It seems that Member(F) is in dilemma about the idea of member(S) over seeking fresh cabinet approval in the matter even though 78.2% IDA merger has already been cleared by the GOM / Union Cabinet for all the CPSE Employees getting revised pay scales w.e.f. 1/1/2007.

Member(S) continues to hold the opinion that the presidential order dated 10-06-2013 is incorrect and needs revision through a fresh cabinet memo, although the benefit to the serving employees as on 10-06-2013 has already been extended on the strength of this incorrect (?) order. Member (S) feels that the fresh memo should allow payment from 1-1-2007 which shall automatically clear the present problem of pensioners retired prior to 10-06-2013. Member(S) also wants BSNL to take initiative for preparing this fresh proposal/ Cabinet Note which makes this idea more difficult to mature. However this idea is naturally very attractive to the serving employees who already got partial benefit and now expect to get the remaining dues, but the pensioners retired prior to 10-06-2013 are left high and dry.

The Joint Forum seems to be convinced by the idea of Member(S) and has written to Secretary (T) on the same lines, naturally because they are more bothered about the serving employees who happen to be their voters.

Under this circumstances if all the pensioners and their associations do not raise their voice unitedly, suffering is inevitable for them.

We want our pension (according to 78.2% IDA merger) increased from 10-06-2013 as paid to serving employees vide presidential order dated 10-06-2013, and as promised by DoT under various SCOVA meetings chaired by MOS (Pension & PW) that benefit of 78.2% IDA merger (as on 1/1/2007) shall be given to all the BSNL Pensioners as given to working Employees of BSNL.

Commitment made by DOT in several SCOVA meetings should be fulfilled first, and then as and when the BSNL Employees get their dues w.e.f. 1/1/2007 as per the proposed revised Cabinet Note the same can again be extended to the BSNL pensioners.

We are taking action in this direction and shall continue to do so in the interest of BSNL pensioners.

-- Kishen Singh GS & Rakesh Srivastava VP

10-05-2014 Our Gs Sri Kishen Singh wrote to Sh M.F.Farooqui, Chairman TC and Secy(T) for Pension Revision of BSNL absorved (Ex-DoT) employees with reference to 7th Pay Commision and on abnormal delay in 78.2% IDA merger issue. Click for both the letters

09.05.2014: GS AIBSNLEA our Chief Mentor writes to Shri M.F. Farooqui, Chairman Telecom. Commission & Secretary (T), DoT regarding resolution of stalemate created by Pension Cell of DoT in Granting benefit of 50% IDA merger, (as on 1/1/2007). to BSNL Pensioners retiring before 10^th June 2013 as granted to BSNL Employees vide DOT Memo no.61-01/2012-SU dated 10^th June 2013 <<<Click here for letter>>>>

09.05.2014: On 06-05-2014 GS AIBSNLEA our Chief Mentor and GS AIRBSNLEWA Shri Kishan Singh along with Sh Rakesh Srivastava VP and Sh N.C.Jain FS, met Secretary (Telecom) DOT and requested for his kind intervention for implementation of 78.2% IDA pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners. We expressed our concern that reply to DOE from DOT is pending for the last two months. Secretary (Telecom) assured to look into the matter. Further they met Member (Finance) DOT Smt. Annie Morases for the Clearance of 78.2% IDA pay fixation case reply to DOE from DOT, since the case is pending in internal finance of DOT for clearance . Members (Finance) assured an early action in the regard. The delegation also met Jt Secy(T) and DDG (FEV) on same issue. They also assured for early action.

05.05.2014: GS, AIBSNLEA writes to Shri M. M. Faroqui, Chairman Telecom Commission & Secretary, Department of Telecommunication regarding reference to 7th Pay Commission in r/o BSNL's absorbed (Ex. DOT) employees' pension revision issues- <<<Click here for letter>>> <<<Click here for Annexure>>>

29.04.2014: DOP&PW INVITES SUGGESTIONS TO REVIEW OF RULE 32, 33 AND 56 TO 82 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES 1972 - Department of Pension and Pensioners' Welfare, vide its OM No. 1/19/2013-P&PW(E) dated 24.04.2014, has invited suggestions from all stake holders to review of Rule 32,33 and 56 to 82 of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972. Members are requested to study the proposal and offer their comment to CHQ. Click For the proposed amendment.

28.04.2014: Our Chief Mentor Sh Prahalad Rai and AGS (F), AFS, AIBSNLEA met Member (F) DoT Ms Annie Moraes and discussed regarding early clearance of Draft reply to DoE on 78.2% IDA pay fixation for BSNL pensioners: Member (F) appreciated their concern and mentioned that draft reply is being examined whether the matter actually needs cabinet approval. However, she assured an early decision on this issue.

28.04.2014: Our Chief Mentor Sh Prahalad Rai and AGS (F), AFS, AIBSNLEA met Sh. S.C. Misra Member (Services) DoT and discussed regarding 78.2% IDA pay fixation to BSNL Pensioners: They requested for sending of an early reply to DoE on 78.2% IDA pay fixation of BSNL pensioners, Since the reply is pending with DoT for the last one month. Member (S) mentioned that draft reply is pending in the internal finance of DoT for clearance. However he expressed his concern against the Presidential Order issued by DoT for serving BSNL employees on 12.06.2013.He opined that P.O. needs amendment for areares payment of pay on 78.2% fixation which can easily settle the issue and this exercise to prepare a proposal for modification should be done by BSNL and thereafter by DoT. However, he assured that as soon as the clearance from DoT internal finance is given the reply will be sent to DoE.

26-04-2014: STATUS OF THE CASE DEALING WITH 50% IDA MERGER AMOUNTING TO 78.2% IDA AS ON 1/1/2007

As reported earlier Shri Kishan Singh, GS and Sri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President met with Member(S) on 11/4/2014 to discuss this case. Member(S) opined that this case has not been dealt appropriately by DOT/ BSNL/ Unions & Associations and arbitrary imposition of cut-off date of 10^th June 2013 was not correct and proper and it was gross injustice to the pensioners to deny the arrears of pension w.e.f. 1/1/2007.

It was pointed out to Member(S) that as per agreement reached in July/ August 2012 between BSNL Administration and the respective Unions/ Associations in BSNL, the wage revision @78.2% IDA merger (as on 1/1/2007) was to be implemented and paid from current date. Payment of Arrears w.e.f. 1/1/2007 to date of agreement was to be deferred/ held in abeyance to a future date till financial condition of BSNL improves. DOT should have issued orders in accordance with the letter and spirit of agreement reached by BSNL Management & Unions. Instead DOT has played spoil sport and issued a cut-off date of 10^th June 2013 for 78.2% IDA merger (as on 1/1/2007).

It was also pointed out to Member(S) that as per commitment made by DOT in several SCOVA meetings benefit of 78.2% IDA merger (as on 1/1/2007) was to be given to all the BNL Pensioners as given to working Employees of BSNL, and the same commitment needs to be fulfilled.

Member(S) was of the opinion that this case should be taken up strongly by all the BSNL Unions/ Associations. He lamented the fact that inspite of his repeated exhortations all the BSNL Unions/ Associations are not serious in taking up this matter. He further opined that this problem could be resolved easily through a fresh Cabinet Note for revision of DOT orders dated 10/6/2013 to enable payment of arrears to all the employees in BSNL as envisaged in the agreement reached by BSNL Management & Unions. Issue of Pensioners shall automatically get resolved.

It was again pointed out to Member(S) that commitment made by DOT in several SCOVA meetings should be fulfilled first, and as and when the BSNL Employees get their dues w.e.f. 1/1/2007 as per the revised Cabinet Note the same can again be extended to the BSNL pensioners. But Member(S) was not in favour of piecemeal implementation of 78.2% IDA merger (as on 1/1/2007) for the BSNL Pensioners and he preferred to expedite revision of earlier DOT order dated 10^th June 2013 through a Cabinet Note.

P.S. Getting a fresh cabinet note moved and approved in DOT is going to be long drawn process. Commitment made by DOT in several SCOVA meetings to extend the benefit of 78.2% IDA merger for Pensioners should be honoured and implemented at the earliest..

The concerned file dealing with 78.2% IDA merger for BSNL pensioners was with Director (FEB) on inward path on 11^th April 2014. The file is again with Director (FEB) on outward path on 25^th April 2014. It may reach Member(F) on 28/4/2014/

This case was discussed in detail with Director(Estt) and DDD(TPF) on 11/4/2014. DDG(TPF) categorically stated that he did not foresee any problem in resolution of this issue because all the points raised by Deptt. of Expenditure have been satisfactorily answered by DOT.

18.04.2014:Our Vice President Com. Rakesh Srivastava enquired with FEB section of DOT finance and it is learnt that they have cleared the file on 78.2% IDA merger for pensioners and it will go to Member (Finance) on next Monday. It is expected that the file will go to DoE by next week.

15.04.2014:Chief Mentor, AIRBSNLEWA Sh Prahalad Rai met Director (Estt) DoT Shri Prachees Khanna and discussed regarding reply to DoE on 78.2% IDA Pay Fixation of BSNL Pensioners case queries. Director (Estt) mentioned that reply to DoE is yet to be sent after the clearance from internal finance of DoT.

15.04.2014:Chief Mentor, AIRBSNLEWA Sh Prahalad Rai met DDG (TPF) Shri Sahbazz Ali and requested for early clearance on the reply to be given to DoE by DoT Estt Cell on some queries. DDG (TPF) mentioned that he has already cleared the case but it is still pending in IF Cell of DoT for comments. However, he assured that IF cell will also give its comments with in 2-3 days and then it will be sent to DoT Estt Cell for reply to DoE.

15.04.2014: Sh. V.A.N. Namboodiri, Convener, Forum of BSNL Unions/ Associations writes to Shri M.F.Farooqui, Secretary, DOT regarding 78.2% IDA fixation benefit to pensioners who retired before 10.06.2013 <<<Click here for letter>>>

15/04/2014: New Branch of AIRBSNLEWA opened at Sriganganagar, Rajasthan: A new branch opened at Sriganganagar, Rajasthan with 20 members in a recently held GB meeting.
The following office bearers have been Elected:
1.President : Shri Omkar Nath Seth   0154-246433, 09414318445
2.Branch Secretary : Shri Prem Nath 0154-2473544, 09414387844
3.Organising Secretary:Shri Premsingh Narang   0154-2482666, 09414432666
4. Assistant Secretary : Shri M.L Sharma. 01552-262001 , 0946116761
5.Treasurer : Shri Aman Lal Chandora. 0154- 2473333, 09413395085
6. Auditor : Shri Luxmi Narayan    0154-2465888 , 09413395428
There are 20 members enrolled with this branch. CHQ quota of membership has been received.
All other branches are also requested to deposit CHQ quota of membership in saving bank account No 1120000100163522,PNB, ECE House, K.G Marg New Delhi.

11-04-2014: 78.2% IDA Merger For pensioners Still Pending With DOT: Today Sh.Kishan Singh G.S , Sh. Rakesh Srivastava Vice President . Sh.H.S Bhatia Ex AGS, of AIRBSNLEWA and Sh.M.L Shankhwar (from Kanpur) met Member (Services) and other officers in DOT to know the present status of pension revision on 78.2 % IDA merger case. Member (S) informed that the case file is still with DOT Finance Wing.

09-04-2014: Government of India instructed all ministries to settle all pension disputes within two months and requested pensioners to highlight their grievances in portal http://www.pgportal.gov.in/Grievance.aspx. Let us take this opportunity for settlement of 78.2 % IDA merger issue for BSNL pensioners. All pensioners retired before 10-06-2013 are therefore requested to log on to portal http://www.pgportal.gov.in/Grievance.aspx and highlight the issue. For filling up the 'details of grievances' column please copy - paste the following matter. All complaints logged will be registered with a 'complaint number', which will immediately be sent to the mobile and email id. Kindly preserve the no for subsequent use.
For 'details of grievances' pre 2007 pensioners click here and post 2007 pensioners click here
(kindly fill up your date of retirement after pasting the matter in two places)

07-04-2014:Dispose pensioners' complaints within 2 months: Govt tells ministries click for media news click for Govt. order

01.04.2014: GS , AGS (Finance), AIBSNLEA met Shri S. C. Mishra Member (Services) DoT and discussed regarding reply to Deptt of Expenditure on 78.2% IDA Pay Fixation of BSNL Pensioners. Member (S) mentioned that the draft reply proposal has been sent to Member (Finance) for concurrence and Secy(T) for approval. Thereafter the reply will be sent to DOE. He further mentioned that BSNL Pensioners will get the 78.2% IDA pay fixation w.e.f. 1.1.2007 since their pension contribution has already been paid by BSNL. The following clarifications are to be replied to DoE by DoT:

(i) OM dated 15.3.2011 regarding fixation of pension of pre-2007 BSNL retirees with DR 68.8% was issued with the approval of the Cabinet. As such DoT may satisfy themselves and confirm to DoE that further revision of pension with enhanced DR @78.2% does not require consideration by the Cabinet.

(ii) The annual pension liability of the Government on account of BSNL pensioners should not exceed 60% of annual receipts by the Government from BSNL DoT is requested to verify that annual pension liability on account of this revision does not exceed 60% of annual receipts by the Government from BSNL.

(iii) In respect of BSNL retirees between 1.1.2007 and 9.6.2013, the revision of pension has been proposed on the basis of revised notional pay. Further, on the basis of this revised notional pay, it has been proposed to revise DCRG, leave encashment, and commuted value of pension. Therefore, the precedent where pension has been revised on the basis of revised notional pay and further benefit of such revision has been allowed in DCRG, commuted value of pension and leave encashment, may please be intimated.

01.04.2014: GS, AGS (Finance), AIBSNLEA enquired the status of 78.2% IDA Pay fixation of BSNL Pensioners case from Member (Finance) office and found that on 25.3.2014 the case has been sent to DDG(TPF) for clearance. They further met DDG (TPF) Sh. Shahbaz Ali and requested for early clearance. DDG (TPF) assured that within 2- 3 days the clearance will be given by internal finance wing. Hence, it is expected that in the next one or two weeks time the reply from DOT will be sent to DoE.

01.04.2014: Due decrease in Consumer price index IDA from 01-04-2014 will be 88.4% i.e down from present rate by 02.1%.

27-03-2014: ALL CHQ Office Bearers and Circle Secretaries Kindly take suitable action so that the 'letter campaign movement is successful in all respect.

Attention ALL BSNL Pensioners (pre and post 2007) Retired prior to 10-06-2013: As the issue of 78.2% IDA merger for all pensioners (Executive and Non- Executive) is getting delayed and there is no sign of early settlement, we request all pensioners to participate in the "Individual Letter Campaign". Pensioners can write the text in two inland letter cards or may take printout and post in envelop to Shri M.F. Farooqui, Secretary(T), DoT and Shri Kapil Sibal, Hon'ble Minister of Communications and IT, New Delhi. Kindly spare some time and participate in the campaign for the sake of deprived pensioners. Click for the TEXT

19.02.2014:GS writes to CMD, BSNL regarding delay in payment of medical reimbursement bill of BSNL pensioners <<<Click here for letter>>>>

19.02.2014:GS writes to CMD, BSNL regarding validity and quality of Pensioner's Identity Card <<<Click here for letter>>>>

Delhi Circle - General Body Meeting regarding

The General Body meeting of Delhi Circle was held on 31.12.2013 at 14.00 Hrs. at CTO Auditorium Eastern Court, New Delhi under chairmanship of sh. M. L. Sharma.

Sh. Kishan Singh General Secretary welcome the members and addressed the house.

(1) He informed that Pension revision case on 78.2% IDA merger has been cleared by the DoP & PW and now DOT has to take approval of D.O. Expenditure.

(2) He also informed the house that 1^st AIC of Association was held on 11.11.2013 at Nasik and Central Office Bearers were elected unanimously from All over India.

Regarding Election of Delhi Circle Branch, President requested house to nominate Election Officer for conducting election of office Bearers. Sh. P.S. Venkatraman was nominated as Election Officer.

Election was conducted. The following Delhi Circle Office Bearers were elected unanimously

1. Shri Teja Singh President

2. Shri A.K. Nandy Vice President

3. Shri R.D. Arora Circle Secretary

4. Shri D.M. Yadav Assistant Circle Secretary

5. Shri K.M. Goel Treasurar

6. Shri V.P. Gupta Assistant Treasurar

7. Shri R.K. Rastogi Member

8. Shri J.B. Jain Member

9. Shri C.L. Umrao Member

10. Shri S. Nayak Auditor

The General Secretary congratulated all the elected members. The snacks & Tea was served and meeting was concluded after vote of thanks by President Shri M.L. Sharma.

09.12.2013: GS Appeal to all Members <<<Click here for GS Appeal>>>>

09.12.2013:Report of 1^st All India Conference and Election of CHQ Office Bearers :1^stAll India Conference of the Association was held at Sapkal Knowledge Hub , Kalyani Hills, Anjenary , Trimbkeshwar Road Nashik - 422212 Maharashtra on 11 -11-2013 at 16:30 hours along with 4^th AIC of AIBSNLEA.

Sh. Venugopal, President AIBSNLEA and Sh. Prahlad Rai, GS, AIBSNLEA were the Chief Guests. Sh. Kishan Singh GS, initially welcomed all the Delegates for the AIC. Then he requested Sh. Prahlad Rai to address the Delegates. Sh Prahlad Rai GS thanked All for holding the 1^st AIC and he delivered how the present Adhoc body contributed to Register the Association and carried on the activities of the Association. Recently he along with Kishan Singh GS met various officers of DOT for Payments of arrears of 78.2 % fixation. He requested all to take necessary action for increasing the membership.

Then Sh. Kishan Singh requested to deliver few words to Sh. Venu Gopal. Sh. Venu Gopal expressed the need of the hour to expand the Association to all the Circles.

Sh. Amit Gupta proposed to the house that the existing GS of AIBSNLEA , Sh. Prahlad Rai may be inducted in the next body as chief Mentor & guide, So that he will discharge his duty as a responsible task to enhance the activity of AIRBSNLEWA. The Proposal was unanimously accepted by the House

CHIEF MENTOR :Sh PRAHLAD RAI, GS ALBSNLEA; 09868278222

Thereafter Sh. KISHAN SINGH GS Placed his report to the house . Members participated in the discussion, Sh. AMIT GUPTA asked for mentioning for membership strength. GS Placed to the house that at Kolkata (W.B) there are above 250 members and at Delhi about 96 members, in Maharastra there are about 50 members. Sh. Swapan Mukherjee requested to the CHQ Body to make adhoc members of Circle say viz Gujarat, Jharkhand, U.P (EAST) , etc.

The House supported the spirit.

Then Sh. N.C JAIN Submitted the audited Account Report of Association. The account was discussed and the Financial Constraints were elaborately discussed.

House unanimously resolved that at present we should not put stress on QUOTA But try to enroll as many members as possible in our fold. Then the President dissolved the Present Body.

For Election of Regular body for next term no election was conducted as the following central of his bearers were elected by the house unanimously :

CHQ OFFICE BEARERS

PRESIDENT: SH. M.L. SHARMA 09868240042

VICE PRESIDENT- 1 SH. V.KESHAB RAO 09490758175

VICE PRESIDENT- 2 SH. RAKESH SRIVASTAVA 09868876677

GENERAL SECRETARY SH. KISHAN SINGH 09968270611

AGS -1 SH. AMIT KUMAR GUPTA 09433000088

SH. R.V. ATHANI 09449858299

SH. PRADEEP GOEL 09415315111

SH. A. GUHA 09426643434

(HQ) SH. K.N. MEHRA 09911314576

OS(E) SH. ARVINDO GHOSE 09434068111

OS(W) SH. S.N. SONWANE 09422271599

OS(S) SH. P. CHANDRA SEKHAR 09444710815

OS(N) VACCANT, TO BE FILLED BY NOMINATION

FS SH. N.C. JAIN 09871915573

EDITOR SH. S.K. AWASTHI 09868617661

AUDITOR SH. B.D. JHA 09431706606

The meeting ended by vote of thanks by GS, Sh. Kishan Singh .

20.11.2013:It is Gathered from DOP&PW that

(a) Pension anomaly file has been returned to DOT for some minor queries,

(b) Pension revision on 78.2% IDA merger case in under examination in DOP&PW and reply will be sent to DOT with in few days.

15.11.2013: <<<Click here for the Report of the General Secretary placed in the Ist All India Conference held on 11- 12 November 2013 at Sapkal Knowledge Hub, Kalyani Hills, Anjenery Trambak Road , Nashik, Maharashtra>>>>

AIRBSNLEWA WISHES

A VERY HAPPY & PROSPEROUS

'DURGA PUJA'

ONE & ALL

07.10.2013:: A delegation consisting of Sh. Kishan Singh, General Secretary, Sh. Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President of Association and Sh. P.S. Venkataraman met Member(S), Director(Estt.), Director(PSU) in DoT to pursue Pension revision case on 78.2% IDA merger.

19.09.2013:: GS, AIRBSNLEWA writes to Sh. M.F. Farooqui, Chairman Telecom, Commission & Secretary(T), New Delhi regarding Implementation of the order for 78.2% IDA merger w.e.f. 1-1-2007 for Ex-DOT Employees retiring as Pensioners before 09.06.2013.<<<Click Here for letter>>>

05.09.2013:

: AIRBSNLEWA notified that its first All India Conference at Sapkal Knowledge Hub, Kalyani Hills, Ajeneri, Trambak Road, NASHIK on 11^th and 12^th November, 2013 <<<Click Here for letter>>>

31.08.2013:: GS, AIRBSNLEWA writes to Sh. Sanjay Kothari, Secy(T), DoP&PW, New Delhi regarding Non -fulfillment of commitments made by DOT in 22nd SCOVA Meeting held on 19.2.2013 regarding (a) Merger of 78.2% IDA with basic pension benefit to the absorbed BSNL Pensioners and (b) Removal of anomaly in fixation of Penation of Pension of DoT Employees absorbed in BSNL retired between 1.1..2000 and 31.7.2001.<<<Click Here for letter>>>

29.08.2013:

: GS, AIRBSNLEWA writes to Sh. M.F. Farooqui, Chairman TC and Secy(T), DoT regarding Resolution of problems arising out of DOT Memo o. 61-01/2012-SU dated 10th June 2013 as enunciated vide BSNL memo no. 1-19/2002-PAT (BSNL) dated 8.8.2013 leading to hold up in Revision of Pension of Pre-2007 Pensioners/family Pensioners of BSNL in accordance with fitment formula specifield vide DPE's O.M. No. 2(70)/08-DPE(WC)- GL- VII/09 dated 2.4.2009 <<<Click Here for letter>>>

12.08.2013:: It has been decided to hold General Body meeting at 11:00 Hrs on 26/08/2013 at CTO Auditorium Eastern Court New Delhi to discuss about holding of All India Conference of Association at Nasik in the month of November 2013. All the retired executives of BSNL are requested to attend meeting: Kishan Singh, General Secy.

23.7.2013: Sh. Kishan Singh GS, Sh. Hardas Singh, AGS, Sh. K.N. Mehra met and sh. Venankatran met Member(S), DoT in connection with revision of pension of Pre- 2007 & Post 2007 retirees. The discussion was held in details. Informations regarding retirees from 1.1.2007 to 9.7.2013 has been called for from BSNL . Member(S) told that on receipt of Data/information from BSNL, case will be processed in DOT. As soon as information is received the case will be processed further.

25.7.2013: Sh. Kishan Singh GS, Sh. Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President, Sh. Hardas Singh AGS and Sh. K.N. Mehra met Sr. GM(Estt) in BSNL C.O for expediting reply to DOT. Regarding revision of pension on IDA 78.2% respect of pensioners retired on Pre -2007 and Post upto 9.7.2013. GM (Estt) told that reply is being sent at the earliest.

13.06.2013:

GS writes to Sh. M.F. Farooqui, Secy(T), DoT regarding revision of Pension ................<<<Click Here for letter>>>

13.06.2013:GS, AGS(F), CS Delhi Circle and GS AIRBSNLEWA Com. Kishan Singh met Member (S), Addl. Secy (T), DDG (TPF) and Director (PSUs) and extended thanks for their help in issuing the presidential Directives on 78.2% IDA Pay fixation and requested for early issuance of the order for pensioners also to revise their pay on the basis of 78.2% IDA Pay fixation formula. All these officers assured an early action in this regard. But everybody expressed their concern towards BSNL's continuous losses.

13.06.2013:GS, AGS(F), CS BSNL C.O. and GS AIRBSNLEWA Com. Kishan Singh met Chairman TC & Secy(T), DoT and extended our sincere gratitude & thanks for his kind intervention in getting released the Presidential Directives on 78.2% IDA Pay fixation case for BSNL employees and also requested for early issuance of Pay fixation order for BSNL Pensioners also retired before 01.01.2007 and after 01.01.2007 as the present order does not cover the pensioners retired before 10-06-2013. Secy(T) appreciated our concern and mentioned that all the BSNL employees including ITS officers should concentrate for the growth of BSNL to turn around. We assured him that BSNL employees are committed as per their conviction for the growth of BSNL because survival of BSNL is the survival of theirs. However, we explained the constraints which are adversely affecting the viability of BSNL i.e. scarcity of material in field units and due financial support from Govt. We requested for immediate payment of Rs. 1500 Crores rural subsidy as per Telecom Commission, Refund of BWA/Spectrum Charges, reimbursement of license fees and USO charges etc. Secy(T) mentioned that Rs. 1500 Crores as rural subsidy is being released shortly from USO fund and other issues are under process.

Regarding GoM, he confirmed that revival plan of BSNL/MTNL were discussed yesterday in GoM. A presentation has been made on this issue by DoT. But during GoM, Hon'ble Ministers mentioned that BSNL Management & DoT is pleading for VRS in BSNL but the BSNL Unions/Associations have mentioned in their memorandum that the excess staff in BSNL is Myth and VRS will not help BSNL rather adversely affect BSNL.

However, Secy(T) further told that BSNL's financial health is not at all good, hence BSNL Management and employees should work together for its revival.

While thanking, we requested to direct BSNL Management for issuing promotion orders of BSNL executives to fill up HAG/SAG/JAG/STS/Group-'B' level posts on priority as per Cabinet decision. Secy(T) assured to look into the matter.

11.06.2013:

Finally BSNL has issued order regarding benefit of merger of 50% DA effectively amounting to 78.2% for the purpose of fitment w.e.f. 10.06.2013

We are extremely thankful for the prompt and favorable action taken by CMD, BSNL, Director (HR) and all concerned officers in BSNL Corporate Office for issuing order immediately. But the order may not cover the pensioners. We shall meet the officers of DOT soon to find out.

<<<Click Here for the order of Non-Executives>>>

<<<Click Here for the order of Executives>>>

27.09.2012: GS writes to All Circle/Branch Secretaries regarding proposal for holding All India Conference at New Delhi <<<Click Here for letter>>>

11.10.2011: It is for information of all the members at Delhi that revised PPO work in DoT PFP Branch has been completed. Copy of revised PPO are being dispatched very soon to pensioners; address. Left over cases are also being processed.

11.10.2011: GS writes to Sh. R.K. Upadhyay, CMD BSNL regarding restoration of the facility for reimbursement of medical expenditure without voucher for Outdoor treatment for retired BSNL employees. Click Here for letter

23.09.2011 Meeting of the Executive Committee was held at BSNL CO premises wherein it was decided to withdraw the Lunch Hour Demonstration proposed to be held at Sanchar Bhavan on 28/9/2011 for expeditious resolution of Pension Revision for pre-2007 retirees from BSNL Corporate Office vide our notice/ letter of even no. dated 29th August 2011.

It is expected that issue of revised PPOs in BSNL Offices all over India, PFP Wing at DOT Head Quarters and all the respective CCAS all over India shall be completed by 21st of October 2011. Click here for letter dated 23/9/2011 addressed to Secretary(T) in the matter.

ALL THE FAMILY PENSIONERS ARE HEREBY INFORMED TO CONTACT RESPECTIVE BSNL OFFICES IF REVISION OF THEIR PPOs HAS NOT YET BEEN INITIATED/ CARRIED OUT. OUR MEMBERS MAY KINDLY ENSURE TO COMMUNICATE THIS MESSAGE TO EACH AND EVERY FAMILY PESNSIONER OF BSNL KNOWN TO THEM."

23/09/2011: GS writes to Sh. R. Chandrashekhar, Secy(T) DoT& Chairman TC, New Delhi regarding withdrawal of Lunch Hour demonstration on 28.09.2011 for expeditious resolution of Pension Revision for Pre-2007 Retirees from BSNL CO vide our notice/letter of even no. dated 29.08.201 Click Here for letter

03/09/2011

DIYA TALE GHOR ANDHERA

The picture for Pension Revision for pre-2007 retirees from BSNL Corporate Office is very disappointing because not a single PPO has been issued so far till today i.e. 3/9/2011. Around 50 PENSION CALCULATION SHEETS were forwarded by O/O G.M.(Estt.) BSNL CO to PFP Wing of DOT Head Quarters at Sanchar Bhavan upto 31/8/2011 but no PPO could be issued by PFP Wing in DOT because figure worked out in Family Pension column was incorrect in all the 50 PENSION CALCULATION SHEETS.

See the efficiency of Pension Wing of BSNL CO, New Delhi!!

Now it is learnt from reliable sources that Secretary DOT has written a strong DO Letter to CMD, BSNL with copy to Member(F), DOT inquiring into delay in Pension Revision and asking CMD. BSNL to ensure completion of Pension Revision by 30th September 2011.

Secretary, AIRBSNLEA has served notice on Secretary, DOT and CMD, BSNL etc. for holding demonstration at Sanchar Bhavan on 28/9/2011 and Dharna on 12th and 13th October 2011 over the delay in Pension Revision bu BSNL CO and DOT Offices.

15/09/2011

At last BSNL HQ submits Pension Calculation Sheets to US(STP) for Pension Revision for its pre-2007 retirees through PFP Wing of DOT Head Quarters and CCA Delhi. (See Order dated 15^th September 2011)

This has been possible because of a strong DO letter sent by Secretary(T) to CMD, BSNL inquiring about the delay in Pension Revision and immediate compliance of the Cabinet decision on Pension Revision before 30/9/2011. A copy of this DO letter was endorsed to Member(F) for facilitating and completing pension revision for pre-2006 retirees promptly by respective CCA Units.

At present only one person (AAO) is available in PFP Wing at Sanchr Bhavan for issue of PPOs who can release at the most 5 PPOs per day. We have to again pursue with Member(F) / DDG(A/C) to provide additional manpower in PFP Wing for issue of PPOs.

After issue of PPOs, CR Cell of DOT Hqrs takes at least two weeks to forward these letters to CCA Delhi. CCA Delhi will take about two weeks or so to forward these cases to Banks/ Post Offices for release of revised Pension. So still a long road ahead for completion of the work.

16/09/2011 : On 14.09.2011 Shri Kishan Singh, Secretary AIRBSNLEWA along with Vice President Shri Rakesh Srivastava and Treasurer Shri K.N.Mehra met DDG(Estt), DOT at Sanchar Bhavan and requested him to get additional staff posted in PFP Wing for Pension Revision. He assured to take up the issue with DDG(TPF) to do the needful.

Sri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President again pursued this case with DDG(Estt) on 15.9.2011 and also took follow up action with DDG(TPF) and Director(TRT) for additional staff for Pension Revision. Consequently two AOs/ AAOs were posted in PFP Wing on 16/9/2011 A/N and it is expected that all the PPOs pending with PFP Wing in DOT for pre-2007 retirees shall get released before 30/09/2011 with the available man power.

11.08.2011:Pension Revision Status in BSNL Corporate Office for Pre-20007 Retirees

(1) GS, AIRBSNLEWA Sri Kishan Singh and Shri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President along with Shri Prahlad Rai, GS, AIBSNLEA met Director(HR) on 11^th August 2011 submitted a representation to Director(HR) and explained the current dismal status to Dirctor(HR) and impressed upon him the need to accelerating the PENSION Revision Work by providing additional man power for the same. Dir(HR) was initially of the opinion that Pension Revision Work was to be carried out by DOT and not by BSNL. It was explained to him that BSNL was supposed to prepare and forward the case in the form of PENSION CALCULTION SHEETS for all the pre-2007 Pensioners/ Family to PFP Wing in DOT through US(STP). BSNL CO was considerably lacking in this matter because only around twenty Pension Calculation Sheets had been forwarded over a period of last four months till 11/8/2011 to PFP Wing in DOT out of total 400 cases to be settled by BSNL CO. Dir(HRD) assured to do the needful in the matter.

(2) This issue was further explained by GS and Vice President AIRBSNLEWA to GM(Estt) Shri R.K.Goyal and he asked for time till the end of September 2011 to complete the submission of Pension Calculation Sheets to US(STP) / PFP Wing of DOT for issue of the PPOS. We requested him to provide additional manpower for Pension Revision to finish preparation of Pension Calculation Sheets in August 2011. He assured to look into the matter to expedite Pension Revision.

(3) Sri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President AIRBSNLEWA met Sri S.C.Misra, Member(S), Telecom. Commission and also Sri Shakeel Ahmed, DDG(Establishment) at Sanchar Bhavan New Delhi on 11/8/2011 A/N to expedite Pension Revision and requested them to ask BSNL as to why the target date of April 2011 for preparation of Pension Calculation Sheets could not be adhered to by BSNL CO leading to cascading delay in issue of revised PPOs for BSNL CO retirees. Member(S) assured that necessary instructions shall soon be issued to BSNL, highlighting non-compliance of instructions/ TIMELINE issued by DOT in Pension Revision leading to delay in Pension Revision and instruct BSNL to provide additional manpower as needed for early compliance of DOT orders on Pension Revision.

DDG(Estt.) also assured that there would be no delay from STP section in forwarding Pension Calculation Sheets submitted by Pension Section of BSNL to PFP Wing in DOT for issue of PPO. He also ensured that other issues with BSNL CO and PFP Wing shall be looked into to expedite Pension Revision.

(4) Representation dated 10/8/2011 addressed to Hon'ble MOC(IT) was submitted to O/O MOC(IT) on 10/8/2011 by GS, AIRBSNLEWA Sri Kishan Singh and Shri Rakesh Srivastava. On 11/8/2011. Sri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President AIRBSNLEWA met Addl PS to MOC(IT) in this reference and asked the O/O MOC(IT) to look into the issue of “Non-compliance of the Cabinet decision on Revision of Pension for pre-2007 Pensioners of BSNL within the TIMEFRAME specified vide DOT Memo no.40-17/2008-Pen(T)-Vol.III dated 15/3/2011 by the BSNL Hqrs. New Delhi with respect to around four hundred pre-2007 Pensioners retiring from BSNL Corporate Office, New Delhi”.

Addl PS to MOC(IT) forwarded the representation dated 10/8/2011 to Secretary(T) for expeditious settlement of the issue.”

07.07.2011: Stalemate in IDA Pension for Pre-2007 BSNL Corporate Office Retirees:- Sh. M.L. Sharma, President, Sh. Rakesh Srivastava, V.President, Sh. Kishan Singh, Genaral Secretary and Sh. K.N. Mehra, Finance Secy. Met Member(S), Member(F), DDG(TPF) and DDG(Estt.) in DoT for resolution of Pension Revision issue. There was a dispute between PFP Wing (DoT) and BSNL Pension Branch of Corporate Office regarding Performa for Pension revision. It has been assured by all concerned that Performa / format for Pension revision shall be finalized within a day. Click Here for Letter addressed to DoT authority / CMD BSNL

27.06.2011: GS writes to Sh. S.C. Mishra, Member(S), DoT regarding zero progress in issue of revised PPOs/Revision of Pension ... Click Here for Letter

27.06.2011: GS writes to Sh. A.K. Garg, Director(HR) BSNL regarding settlement of Pension Revision issue for Pre-2007 retirees and removal of discrepancy in Pensioner's identity card issued by BSNL CO to the Pensioners Click Here for Letter

27.06.2011: Click Here for Certificate of Registration under Societies registration act XXI of 1860

10.06.2011: BSNL Corporate office issued consolidated List of Empanelled Hospitals at Delhi with NCR region Click Here for List

10.06.2011:JAC Meeting with CMD BSNL: JAC discussed following issues with CMD, BSNL and the details are as under :-

(i) Speedy settlement of Pension Revision and payment of arrears :Though the Pension Revision orders have been issued months back, the payment of revised pension and arrears have not been paid in most of the centres. The JAC leaders wanted early settlement of the same. CMD stated that he will ensure early finalization of the revision which is to be done at the SSA level. He also stated that he will take up the case with the DOT for early payment of pension and the arrears.

(ii) 78.2% IDA: The JAC demanded that the 78.2% IDA be implemented for BSNL staff early. CMD agreed to look in to the matter.

10.06.2011:Appeal by General Secretary: All the Circles are requested to remit the CHQ quota of subscription collected from the members as per provision of the constitution of Association.

10.06.2011:Formation of District Body at Kalyan SSA: A Branch with following Office Bearers has been opened on 28.05.2011 at Kalyan SSA.

(i) President :- Sh. B.B. Bagul (Mobile no. 09423860428)

(ii) Vice President :- Sh. V.P. Dubey (Mobile no. 09821120517)

(iii) Secretary :- Sh. B. M. Patil (Mobile no. 09422775456)

(iv) Jt. Secretary :- Sh. B.M. Hatwar (Mobile no. 09930257933)

(v) Treasurer :- Sh. D. Tarachandani (Mobile no. 09320667050)

05.04.2011: BSNL Corporate Office issued order regarding Revision of pension of pre-2007 pensioners/family pensioners of BSNL Click Here for Letter

16.03.2011:Congratulations! BSNL Pension revision order issued Click Here for order Copy of order in PDF format

15.03.2011:Congratulations! BSNL Pension revision order issued today i.e. 15.03.2011. It is a Historical achievement for BSNL Employees. Immediately about 50,000 BSNL Pensioners retired before 01.01.2007 will be benefited. AIRBSNLEWA consistent efforts yielded result in getting released IDA pension revision order for BSNL Pensioners. Order will be uploaded after receiving from DoT.

11.03.2011: Reg. revision of IDA Pension for those who retired before 01.01.2007: It is learnt reliable sources that orders are like to be issued by next week i.e. by 18th March 2011.

11.03.2011: Releasing Industrial Dearness Relief using orders available on DPE Website Click Here for Order

29.01.2011: It is learnt that Cabinet approval for Revision of IDA Pension has been received in DoT. The formula for pension revision is the same which was approved to serving employees of BSNL. It is understood that DoT may issue order in this regard by second week of Feb'2011

21.01.2011: It is learnt that Cabinet has approved the proposal of IDA Pension Revision of BSNL.

(a) Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 30/11/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007:-

Cabinet Note sent by DOT to Cabinet Secretary/ Union Cabinet for necessary concurrence/ approval for IDA Pension Revision was referred back to DOT around two weeks ago for revising the same in a specified format with a brief and concise Note over the issue.

Establishment Wing of DOT has reportedly revised the Draft Cabinet Note in the specified format and the same is under submission for approval of Secretary(T) and Hon'ble MOC(IT).

After approval by the competent authority the revised cabinet Note shall be forwarded by DOT to the Cabinet Secretary within a few days. It may get approved within a month or so for by the Union Cabinet, if no other discrepancy is found/ pointed out in the proposal by the Cabinet Secretary/ Union Cabinet.

(b) Status of ITS absorption in BSNL / MTNL as on 30/11/2010:-

Draft Cabinet Note on the issue of ITS absorption has been circulated by DOT to four nodal Ministries i.e DOP, DPE, Ministry of Law and Deptt. Of Expenditure, around one month ago.

The salient features of the proposal provide for (i) absorption of ITS Officers in BSNL/ MTNL from a prospective/ flexible date i.e. subsequent to implementation of Sixth Pay Commission Recommendations because sixth CPC recommendations have been highly favourable to Selection Grade JAG / SAG and higher level Officers which shall continue after absorption in the respective CPSUs and (ii) Provision of additional incentives to ITS Officers to make absorption in BSN: / MTNL an attractive proposition.

The response from nodal Ministries to the draft Cabinet Note is still awaited.

a) Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 26/11/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007: .

Cabinet Note sent by DOT to Cabinet Secretary/ Union Cabinet for necessary concurrence/ approval for IDA Pension Revision has been referred back to DOT for revising the same and send a brief and concise Note over the issue.

DOT again needs to revise the Draft Cabinet Note and submit twenty copies of the same to the Cabinet Secretary along with its Hindi Version for circulation to all concerned Ministers in the Union Cabinet for their kind perusal and ready reference.

The revised Cabinet Note is likely to sent by DOT to the Cabinet Secretary by the end of this month and it may take another one month for approval by the Union Cabinet, if the same is found satisfactory by the Cabinet Secretary/ Union Cabinet.

"Latest status on IDA Pension Revision on 29/10/2010:-

It has been confirmed through reliable sources that Cabinet Note on IDA Pension Revision has been forwarded by DOT to the Cabinet Secretariat for approval by the Union Cabinet.

In normal course this issue can be expected to be resolved within one month and be sent back to DOT for implementation."

(a) Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 27/10/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007: .

Hon'ble MOC & IT has reportedly approved the cabinet Note for IDA Pension Revision after his return to New Delhi on 18^th October 2010. It is yet to be submitted by DOT to Union Cabinet for necessary concurrence/ approval of the same.

DOT needs to submit twenty copies of Cabinet Memo with Hindi Translation of the same to the Cabinet Secretary for circulation to all concerned Ministers in the Union Cabinet for their kind perusal and ready reference. Apparently due to some problem in Hindi Section this issue has been delayed for over 9 days. Hopefully this issue shall get sorted out in a day or so.

(b) Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 25/10/2010 for IDA Pensioners in Food Corporation of India retiring before 01/01/2007:-

CONGRATULATIONS: Orders for revision of Pension for IDA Pensioners in Food Corporation of India retiring before 01/01/2007 have been issued by Ministry of Food, Govt. of India vide letter no.38020/1/2009-FC-3 dated 25/10/2010.

The orders have been issue under the same fitment formula as given to working employees as on 1/1/2007. It is also to be noted that this is fifth time that Pension Revision in IDA scale has been carried out by Ministry of Food without ever referring to or seeking approval of the Union Cabinet in the matter.

On the other hand DOT had to seek the approval of Union cabinet for IDA Pension Revision because DOT Finance ruled that Telecom. Commission did not have the power to approve the revision of Pension ignoring the fact that two Ministries i.e. Ministry of Food and Ministry of Transport and Shipping have been carrying out IDA Pension Revision at their own ends for the respective PSUs under their administrative control without referring this issue to the Union Cabinet.

20.10.2010: Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 13/10/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007: Response/ comments to the draft Cabinet Note on IDA Pension Revision were received by DOT from Depttt. Of Expenditure, DOP & PW , Ministry of Law and DPE more than 2 weeks ago. After consolidation and review of the responses received from all the four nodal Ministries, the draft cabinet Note has been suitably revised by Establishment Wing of DOT and it has been duly submitted to Hon'ble MOC & IT for his kind approval. Hon'ble MOC & IT being out of Delhi over a period of last one week or so, it is understood that the final Cabinet Note shall get the necessary approval only after his return to Delhi and it shall thereafter be submitted to Union Cabinet for necessary concurrence/ approval of the same.

(b) BSNL MRS for Retirees:-BSNL has revised the ceiling for OUTDOOR Medical Treatment for pre 1/1/2007 retirees and post 1/1/2007 retirees taking reimbursement for Medical Expenses with or without vouchers. Fresh option is to be submitted by all the retirees as per the new Circular and option can be exercised only once. (See the BSNL MRS Circular)

(c)Status on IDA Pension Revision as on 20/10/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007: Hon'ble MOC & IT has reportedly approved the cabinet Note for IDA Pension Revision after his return to New Delhi on 18^th October 2010. It is likely to be submitted by DOT within a week to Union Cabinet for necessary concurrence/ approval of the same.

Circle Branch of Maharashtra AIRBSNLEWA formed on 01/05/2010: General Body Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA was held on 1^st May 2010 and following office bearers were elected:-

1. President: Shri S.S.Dhangar

2. Circle Secretary: Shri S.N.Sonwane

3. Vice President: Shri N.N.Ambedkar

4. Treasurer: Shri Y.H.Lilare

5. Asstt. Treasurer: Shri S.S.Kulkarni

6.. Qrganising Secretary-I: Shri A.S.Amritkar

7. Qrganising Secretary-II: Shri Dubey

8. Asstt. Secretary (East): Shri H.N.Patil

9. Asstt. Secretary (West): Shri S.N.Verma

10. Asstt. Secretary ((South): Shri D.K.Joshi

11. Asstt. Secretary (North): Shri V.D.Bapat

12. Asstt. Secretary (Bidharva): Shri V.G.Dakode

13. Asstt. Secretary (Khandesh): Shri G.B.Kothalkar

14. Asstt. Secretary (Marathwada): Shri B.N.Patil

15. Asstt. Secretary (Pune): Shri S.B.Polekar

Circle Branch of West Bengal AIRBSNLEWA formed on 08/06/2010 : General Body Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA was held at Calcutta and following office bearers were elected:-

1. President: Shri Dhananjoy Biswas

2. Secretary: Shri Sitangshu Sarkar

3. Treasurer: Shri Prasun Madhab Chattopadhyaya

Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA held at New Delhi on 06/09/2010:

Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA was held in Eastern Court Compound at New Delhi on 06/09/2010. Around fifty members/ retired Executives from Delhi and Ghaziabad attended the meeting, which was addressed by Shri Kishan Singh, GS, AIRBSNLEWA, Shri Rakesh Srivastava, Vice President/ Editor, AIRBSNLEWA, Shri S.S.Nanda, General Secretary, MTNL RTOWA, Shri M.K.Bagchi, President, MTNL RTOWA, Shri Satish Kaushik, Circle Secretary, AIBSNLEA, Delhi Circle and Shri Prahlad Rai, General Secretary, AIBSNLEA.

IDA Pension Revision and other issues pertaining to the Welfare of Pensioners and strengthening/ expansion of AIRBSNLEWA were discussed therein.

GS, AIBSNLEA and Circle Secretary. Delhi Circle AIBSNLEA along with President and Secretary of MTNL, RTOWA offered to extend full support to any organizational/ welfare activity taken up by AIRBSNEWA. The same was duly acknowledged and appreciated by the Members and by G.S.. AIRBSNLEW

Latest status on IDA Pension Revision as on 09/09/2010 for BSNL Pensioners retiring before 01/01/2007: .

Response/ comments to the draft cabinet note on IDA Pension Revision have been received by DOT from Depttt. Of Expenditure, DOP & PW and Ministry of Law. It is understood that comments/ response from the three Ministries are supportive to DOT's proposal on IDA Pension Revision. The response from DPE. Which has reportedly been dispatched by DPE one week back is yet to reach DOT Head Quarters. Response of DPE is also understood to be non-committal in view of their proclaimed and often repeated stand that they do not deal with the pensioners/ pension revision in any way.

After consolidation and review of the response received from all the four nodal Ministries, the draft cabinet Note shall be suitably revised and it shall be further submitted for approval of this issue by the Committee of Secretaries / Union Cabinet.

Organisational Setup: General Body Meeting of All India Retired BSNL Executives' Welfare Association was held on 11^th of March 2010 in the Conference Hall at BSNL Corporate Office, Bharat Sanchar Bhavan New Delhi. The AD-HOC CHQ BODY of AIRBSNLEWA was formed and the following Office Bearers were elected unanimously:-

1. President: Shri M.L.Sharma

2. General Secretary: Shri Kishan Singh

3. Vice President-I: Shri A.K.Madan

4. Vice President-II: Shri Rakesh Srivastava

5. Finance Secretary: Shri K.N.Mehra

6. Asstt. General Secretary-I: Shri J.B.Jain

7. Asstt. General Secretary-II: Shri Hardas Singh Bhatia

8. Asstt. General Secretary-III: Shri R.Totlani

9. Asstt. General Secretary-IV: Shri R.D.Arora

10. Organising Secretary (East): Shri B.N.Sarkar

11. Organising Secretary (North): Shri K.G.Parikh

12. Organising Secretary (South): Shri T.Ravindaran

13. Organising Secretary (West): Shri S.N.Sonwane

Circle Branch of Kerala AIRBSNLEWA formed on 15/05/2010: General Body Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA was held on 15/05/2010 and following office bearers were elected:-

1. President: Shri K.Ravindran

2. Secretary: Shri T.N.Verghese

3. Vice President: Shri A.M.Joseph

4. Treasurer: Shri Khaleed

5. Asstt. Secretary: Shri Keecheri Raghavan

6. Organising Secretary: Shri K.N.Raghavan

Circle Branch of Rajasthan AIRBSNLEWA formed on 01/09/2010 : General Body Meeting of AIRBSNLEWA was held and following office bearers were elected:-

1. President: Shri H.C.Garg

2. Secretary: Shri K.G.Parikh

3. Treasurer: Shri R.K.Soni

Latest status on IDA Pension Revision as on 03/09/2010: In view of categorical opinion of DOT Finance that Telecom. Commission was not empowered to approve/ authorise consolidation/ revision of IDA Pension w.e.f. 1/1/2007 consequent to revision of IDA Scales in BSNL, DOT was left with no option but to seek the approval of Union Cabinet for IDA Pension Revision for the BSNL Pensioners retiring between 1/10/2000 and 01/01/2007.

Draft Cabinet Note elaborating the proposal for IDA Pension Revision was formulated by Deptt. Of Telecommunications and sent to the four nodal Ministries i.e DOP, Law, DPE and Deptt. Of Expenditure in last week of July 2010 to obtain their views for submission along with final Cabinet Note for IDA Pension Revision.

A positive response to the draft cabinet note has reportedly been received by DOT from DOP and Ministry of Law to the draft cabinet note on IDA Pension Revision. The case is under submission in DPE and Deptt. of Expenditure and their response to the issue is expected to be received in first week or so of September 2010.

After receiving the response of all the four nodal Ministries, the draft cabinet Note shall be suitably revised to incorporate their views and it shall be further submitted for approval by Committee of Secretaries / Union Cabinet.

	Com. Kishan Singh, GS, AIRBSNLEWA Mobile No.-09968270611