UNI-APRO POST & LOGISTICS / APPC

A joint International Seminar organized jointly by the Post & Logistics Wing of Union Network International - Asia Pacific Regional Organisation (uni-apro Post & Logistics) and Asia Pacific Postal College (APPC) Bangkok was held at Bangkok (Thailand) from 2010 December 13th to 14th. Another Seminar jointly organised by uni-apro Posts & Logistics and State Enterprises Workers Union, Thailand Post (Sewu-thp) was also held at Kanchanaburi (Thailand) on 15th and 16th December 2010. Com: M.Krishnan, Secretary General, National Federation of Postal Employees (NFPE) attended both the Seminars on invitation from UNI-APRO Post & Logistics.

Union Leaders from the following Asia-Pacific countries attended the Seminars.
1. India 2. Pakisthan 3. Nepal 4. Srilanka
5. Thailand 6. Philippines 7. Malaysia 8. Hong Kong
9. Japan 10. Mangolia 11. Vietnam 12. Korea

The Seminar held at APPC, Bangkok was most informative. Sessions on the following different subjects were held. Eminent Lecturers of APPC made the presentations.

Subject Lecturer
1. International Dimension of Post : Mr. Aras
2. Business Excellence - Business
Dimension of Post - Changing Scenario : Mr. Shailendra Kumar
of Postal Business Dwivedi
3. Mail, Parcel and Logistics Management : Mr. Shailendrakumar Dwivedi
4. How to make Post Profitable under the
Financial crisis : Mr. Aras & Mr. Shailendra
5. Reforms in China Post : Mr. Liu
6. Operational Excellence - Operations
Dimensions of Post : Mr. Aras
7. Human Resource Management : Mr. Shailendra

Opening Ceremony on 13.12.2010 was addressed by Mr. Elichi Ito, Director, UNI-APRO Post & Logistics Sector and Mr. Masayuki Nakota, Director International Department of Japan Postal Union. A visit to the highly automated and modernised Mail Center at Lakshi (Bangkok) was arranged by the State Enterprises Workers Union (Postal Employees Union) Thailand Post on 13.12.2010. Certificates to the participants were distributed at the closing Ceremony.

Seminar on 15th & 16th was held at Kanchanaburi, one of the finest tourist centre, in Thailand. The welcome speech was delivered by Ms. Tentip Chaichit, Vice General Director on Human Resources, Thailand Post. Mr. Roengnarong Ismael, President of SEWP-THP (the only one trade union of Postal workers of Thailand Post) made the opening remarks. Mr. Elichi Ito, Director of UNI-APRO Post & Logistics in his lecture explained about UNI-APRO Posts & Logistics. Mr. Somboon Sabsam made a presentation on "overall situation of Thai Labour movement". Mr. Roengnarong Ismael, the President of SEWP lectured on the subject "Building Social Partnership to Thailand Post, the Genuine Unions Success".

After the Lectures the overseas participants made presentations about the present scenario of the Postal Services in their country. A sight seeing trip was also arranged by SEWU-THP. The four day seminars concluded at 4PM on 16.12.2010.

Main High Lights

1. The presentations made by the Lecturers of APPC on 13.02.2010 & 14.02.2010 covered various aspects of the Post & Logistics Sector. The mission, Jurisdiction, Role, structure, function and importance of Universal Postal Union (UPU) was well explained. Scope of Business Management in Postal, Postal Environment and Strategy, Trends and drivers affecting Postal Sector, contemporary business environment, transition of mail sector, management innovation and essential changes in the organizational culture are also explained. Mail strengths, positive postal factors, role of competition, definitive trends, new realities of the Postal Market Place, Technological factors, the future of Post etc. were elaborately narrated. It is emphasized that competition has delivered choice for many and reduced prices of Postal products, increased innovation and improved quality of services for all customers. The changing Postal world, major changes affecting the market and Business environment, Need for change, process improvement, improving productivity, Transport planing and scheduling, strategic issues in Delivery Service were discussed. Interdependence of marketing, operations and human resources, function of human resource management, efforts required to change, importance of providing training on new methods / products, cultivating happiness in workplace, need to involve workers in decisions and giving them a sense of ownership are the other issues came up for discussion in the APPC Seminar.

2. The joint Seminar organised by the SEWU-THP mainly concentrated on the problems faced by the workers with particular reference to Thailand. Thailand has been successful in the economic development since the economic crisis in 1997. In 2006, the economic growth was 5% and this year (2010) the growth rate is predicted about 6 to 7%. Inflation rate is approximately 2 to 3%. There are about 1400 trade unions (in all sectors), 19 Labour Federations, 12 National Centres. As per Article 25 of the state Enterprises Labour Relations Act B.E.2543 (2000) of Thailand a worker has the right to organize a trade union, collective barging, negotiation and organise activities, but cannot hold any strike. All disputes, including wage disputes are to be resolved through negotiations. The main threat faced by the workers in the Govt. sector is privatisation move of the Govt. Out sourcing, contracting work, sub contracting, early retirement, short term employment of part-time workers, reduction of permanent workers, attack on job security and trade union rights are the method adopted by the Government. Concerted efforts are made by the Govt. to reduce state ownership in service sector and to create stronger role for private sector. Methodology adopted for privatisation is same as in India.

3. The situation prevailing in the Postal Sector of other countries is briefed as follows by the Union leaders who participated in the seminar.
(a) HONG KONG : Hong Kong Post (HKP) is still a government department. Market competition maily comes from the four major global courier & logistics companies i.e.. DHL, Fedex, UPS & TNT. Number of Post offices 127 including GPO, international mail centre, Airmail Centre and 124 other Post offices with retail and delivery functions. Number of regular employees 5347 and contract staff 2217. 1.38 billion mails handled during the year 2008-2009. Total turnover 591.6 million us dollars and operational profit. 45.4 million Us dollars in the year 2008-09. Postmaster General is the Chief of the top management of HKP. 70% of mails are processed under mechanised system.

(b) JAPAN : Privatisation talk started in the Diet (Parliament) in April 2005. The Govt's stance regarding the Postal Services was to privatise Japan's Postal Services from the start of that session. When the privatisation of postal services developed into a political issue, the government ignored the voice from citizens and customers over this issue. Public opinion were divided. After the House of councillors voted down those bills, the then Prime-Minister Koizumi dissolved the lower house followed by the General Election 2005. The ruling party (LDP) won a landslide victory over this issue. A package of privatisation bills was again submitted to the special Diet Session and approved in October 2005. On October 1, 2007, Japan Postal Public Corporation was privatized and broken into four companies under the holding company owned by the Japanese Government. Mail related services are being offered by mail company and Post office company. When General election took place in August 2009, the opposition backed by Japan's Postal Union swept a landslide victory. As a result, the law to freeze the planned sales of shares of Postal Group companies was passed in Diet on December 4, 2009. After the election to the Upper house of Parliament in 2010 ruling parties did not get majority in Upper house. While ruling parties gains the lower house, the opposition parties hold majority in the upper house. In May 2010 Postal reforms bills for reorganising the Postal sector were passed in the lower house. According to the bills, the current three companies such as mail delivery, Post office and holding company were merged into one as a new holding company. Two Postal Financial companies were placed under the new holding company. The Govt. planned to own 1/3 plus shares of the holding company. Simultaneously this holding company was designed to own 1/3rd plus shares of two financial companies. However the new Postal reforms bills were not legislated before the Parliament session was over. Thus talks of Postal reforms bills will start over again in the next parliament session. Postal reforms has become a centre point of discussion in political Postal Union in Japan closely keeps an eye on political trends.

A fierce competition is going on in the parcel market. Private parcel companies have upgraded the logistic system from collection to delivery. They have diversified service lineups. More competition is expected in future in the postal market. Japan Post Express is the third largest player in terms of market share, but its market share is declining.

Japan Post has been improving its service qualities in order to satisfy with customer needs. It has advanced technology for domestic and international mail services. There are 24600 Post offices.

(c)KOREA : Korea Post has a monopoly of letter mail in Postal Services by Postal Law. After Govt. making Foreign Trade Agreement (FTA) with United States for opening markets including Postal Services, monopoly will be reduced. Present market share of Govt. Postal Services 100% in letter mail, 88% in express mail and 12% in parcel mail. Courier Services are also operating just like in India.

(d) MONGOLIA : Postal company fully owned by Government. Other companies working. Market share of Govt. company letter mail 55%, Express mail 30%, Parcel Service 75%. Total Post offices 385.

(e) MALAYSIA : Initially the Postal Services as a Govt. department then corporatised w.e.f. 1.1.1992 and subsequently privatised in September 2001 under companies Act of 1965. The compnay is now called "POs Malaysia". There are about 120 courier services competing in the mails market.

(f) PHILIPPINES : Postal Services Corporatised as "Phipost" in 1992. Govt. proposes to privalise the company.

(g) VIETNAM : Postal Services in Vietnam is corporatised. There is no move for privatisation. Private Courier services are also operating.

(h) NEPAL : Postal Services is still under Govt. monopoly. Private courier services are also operating.

(i) PAKISTHAN : Corporatised in 1992. It is being considered for privatisation through Privatisation Commission of Pakisthan Government. Facing stiff competition from both domestic and international players.

(j) SRILANKA : Govt. department. No corporatisation or privatisation process. Private Couriers are also operating.

(k) THAILAND (already explained above)

4. REFORMS IN CHINA : Chinese Postal services is run by China Post Group a Public Limited Company. There are several subsidiary and Provincial companies under the China Post Group. Reforms started in 2007. At that time total employees 10 lakhs. Now the number of employees are 4,11,000. Number of Post office 54000. Computerised Post offices 37000. Postal vehicles 64868. Railway carriages 422, Aircraft- 17, letter sorting machines - 95, Parcel sorting machine - 85. Private companies are also operating. Market share of Govt. company 80%.

EMPLOYEES MAY NOT BE ABLE TO CHALLENGE CAT JUDGMENT IN SC

NEW DELHI: Bad news is in store for government employees contesting matters relating to their service conditions in the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) as they may not be able to challenge the judgment in the Supreme Court.

Government employees not satisfied with CAT orders on their service matters will continue to appeal in High Courts as government's plan to enable them approach the apex court directly has received a thumbs down from the top law officer.

Recently, the Department of Personnel had asked the Law Ministry whether the present system of CAT orders being challenged in High Courts be changed to fast track disposal of cases of government employees relating to their service conditions and employment rules.

The Law Ministry referred the matter to Attorney General Ghoolam Vahanvati who opined against the move saying a 1997 Supreme Court judgment on the issue should continued to be followed.

"As of now, the buck stops here (on the issue)," Law Minister M Veerappa Moily told PTI when asked to comment on Vahanvati's opinion.

He said his ministry was trying to find a solution. "But I would not like to add anything more to it," he added.

When the CAT was established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament, its rules clearly stated that its judgments on service related matters of state and central government employees can only be challenged in the apex court.

While the same rules is in operation even today, a 1997 Supreme Court ruling held that judicial review is the basic feature of the Constitution and a High Court's power on judicial review cannot be taken away.

After the judgment, appeals against CAT rulings were entertained in High Courts.

"The Armed Forces Tribunal Act has been borrowed from CAT. Appeals against Tribunal's orders can only be challenged in the Supreme Court. But in CAT's case, it has become a three tier system...the entire purpose of CAT has been defeated," said a CAT functionary.

He said while CAT usually disposes off a case in six months, appeal in High Court often takes years.

"They pay Rs 50 as fee to move CAT, but they have to pay thousands of rupees in High Court...if the matter reaches Supreme Court, the time and cost involved is massive," he said.

INDIA POST TO START CONSUMER AUDIT

NEW DELHI The department of posts has initiated external consumer audits to understand the growing needs of urban customers worried over decline in its market share in mail service business that it once dominated. India Post will conduct these audits primarily in its urban post offices to gauge market sentiments of the urban population, which is rapidly switching to private courier service providers. " The idea is to build India Post brand for greater acceptability in cities," said an official with the department. In the recent years, the department's revenues from its postal operations have been on the decline. The specific areas of business where the department's revenue receipts appear on the decline are ordinary post, money-orders and postal-orders. There has, however, been recent improvement in the department's revenue figures. Figures as on October 2010 show the department's revenue receipts on postage realised in cash at Rs 1,321 crore, which is a 11% increase to the figure as on October 2009. However, commission on money-orders and postal-orders have made only marginal improvements, a concern which has prompted the department to initiate major overhaul in the way it handles mailing operations. To arrest the slide in business, India Post has initiated the process of redesigning its existing mail network. It has introduced innovations such as radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology in mail processing for better tracking of mail bags and articles to draw high-end and urban mail customers. In the 11th plan period (2007-12), the department has undertaken measures to improve the quality of mail operations, including automation of mail processing activities, induction of dedicated freighter aircraft for transmission of mail and restructuring of existing mail network. "These new initiatives are expected to result in better quality of service which in turn, would help the department in increasing mail traffic and revenue," said the official, requesting anonymity. The department recently conducted a customer satisfaction survey at a select few top-tier urban centres. The department during the current fiscal is expected to generate revenues of Rs 6,956 crore, way below its estimated working expenses of more than Rs 10,552 crore. The department's inability to arrest its declining revenues has come under criticism from the Parliament as well. "We strongly recommend analysis of the position and taking up of effective steps to increase the revenue receipts particularly when the working expenses of the department are increasing year after year," said a Parliamentary Standing Committee report.
Source: Economic Times 27 Dec-2010

STEPPING UP OF PAY OF Sr. ASSISTANTS/PAs OF CSS/CSSS PROMOTED PRIOR TO 01.01.2006

LAST DATE FOR CHANGE OF OPTION

AS PER RULE NO: 11 THE LAST DATE FOR CHANGE OF OPTION IS 31.12.2010

When the 6th pay commission was implemented ,all central govt employees were asked to give option form as per rule No:11 in the CCS (Revised Pay) Rules-2008, it was asked that whether the implementation of 6th cpc is to be from 01/01/2006 or on any other date(Promotion/Increment). Almost all employees opted 01/01/2006 for the implementation But employees requested in the JCM level that, they may get additional financial benefit of they option for any other date rather than 01/01/2006.The govt accepted the JCM's(National Anomaly Committee) opinion and provide one more chance to give new option as per Rule No.11 to the beneficial employees. This chance is closing at 31.12.2010.

Particularly employees who got promotion after 01/10/2006, have to calculated the differences individually and they may get some financial benefit the last Date for this exercise is an 31st December, 2010

What says Rule No.11…

Fixation of pay in the revised pay structure subsequent to the 1st day of January,2006 -

"where a Government servant continues to draw his pay in the existing scale and is brought over to the revised pay structure from a date later than the 1st day of January 2006,his pay from the later date in the revised pay structure shall be fixed in the following manner;-

(i) Pay in the pay band will be fixed by adding the basic pay applicable on the later date,the dearness pay applicable on that date and the pre-revised dearness allowance based on rates applicable as on 1.1.2006.this figure will be rounded off to the next multiple of 10 and will then become the pay in the applicable pay band. In addition to this, the grade pay corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale will be payable .Where the Government servant is in receipt of special pay or non-practicing allowance ,the methodology followed will be as prescribed in Rule 7(i),(B),(C) or (D) as applicable, except that the basic pay and dearness pay to be taken into account will be the basic pay and dearness pay applicable as on that date but dearness allowance will be calculated as per rates applicable on 1.1.2006."

See the table given below for your information…

Except the first two basic pay(pre-revised scale) multiply with 1.86, there is some difference with comparing to others. Please follow this article, clarify your pay fixation details individually once again before give option…

Difference
3050
1.86
5673
5680
5880
200
3200
1.86
5959
5960
6060
100
4000
1.86
7440
7440
7440
-
4500
1.86
8370
8370
8370
-
5000
1.86
9300
9300
9300
- Source: www.govtempdiary.com
-- M.KrishnanSecretary General NFPE

ENGAGEMENT OF CONTINGENT & CASUAL LABOURERS

WHEN THE CHIEF PMG, A. P. CIRCLE GRACED THE AIC SBCO HER ORATION ON 11.12.2010, SECRETARY, GENERAL NFPE SOUGHT HER INTERVENTION TO CLARIFY THE POSITION ON ENGAGEMENT OF PART TIME CONTINGENT ETC ON THE BACK GROUND OF DIRECTORATE ORDER DT. 19.11.2010 WHICH IS APPLICABLE TO CIRCLE OFFICE ONLY.
The Chief PMG has now clarified the orders as under

DEPARTMENT OF POSTS :: INDIA
Office of the Chief Post Master General, A.P Circle, Hyderabad – 500 001

No.ST/25-1/CL/TS/10, dated at Hyd-1, the 20-12-2010

Sub:- Review of instructions on engagement of casual labourers in the light of the guidelines on outsourcing.

Ref :- Dte. Lr. No. 4-4/2009/PCC, dtd.19-11-2010.


Kindly refer to the Directorate letter cited above on the subject communicated vide this letter of even no. dated 26-11-2010.

References are being received from various quarters seeking clarifications as to whether the instructions under reference are applicable to the existing staff also.

The following instructions are issued after examining the matter in Circle Office.

(i) The orders are applicable to CO / RO / DO / and DA(P) offices.

(ii) The existing staff need not be dispensed with. It is clarified that the intention of the orders is that no Contingent or Casual Labour be appointed after 01-12-2010.

I am also directed to request you to send the information in the proforma prescribed which was already sent with this office letter of even no. dated 26-11-2010, by return of FAX No.040-23463613.

MATTER MOST URGENT.

Sd..x.x.x.x
Asst. Director (Per., Admn. & SR)
For Chief Post Master General
A.P Circle, Hyderabad – 500 001

.-- M.KrishnanSecretary General NFPE
Posted by NFPE at 3:33 PM 0 comments Links to this post

CADRE RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE MEETING ON 27.12.10

No. 25-10//2010-PE.IDepartment of Posts(Establishment Division)Dak Bhawan, Sansad MargNew Delhi – 110001Dated: 20th Dec'2010
Subject: Cadre restructuring of Group 'C' other than Accounts cadre – constitution of a Committee
It has been decided to hold a meeting of the above Committee on 27/12/2010 at 11 a.m. in the chamber of DDG (Establishment).
2. You are, therefore, requested to make it convenient to attend the meeting.

Sd (Raj Kumar)
Director (Establishment-- M.KrishnanSecretary General NFPE

REVISION OF NORMS FOR ASSESSMENT OF WORKLOAD OF BRANCH POSTMASTERS

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATIONS & IT
DEPARTMENT OF POSTS
(Establishment Division)
Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg
New Delhi-110 001
File No.5-1/2007-WS-1(Pt.) Dated 16-12-2010

To
Chief Post Masters General
Postmasters General
General Managers (Finance)
Directors of Accounts (Postal)

Sub:- Revision of norms for assessment of workload of the Branch Postmasters.

Sir/Madam,

I am directed to refer to Directorate letter No.14-6/87-PAP dated 15-07-87 and 15-12-2009 on the above subject.

2. The staff representatives of Gamin Dak Sevaks have represented that many of the new items of work that have been added recently are not covered by norms for assessment of workload of the Branch Postmasters in point system. One-man committee headed by Shri R.S.Natarajamurti also recommended for conducting work study and prescribing norms for the various items of work undertaken by Branch Postmasters. Therefore, the Department has ordered a work study through Integrated Work Study Unit for recommending norms for new items of work and for revision of existing norms. The report and recommendations of the IWSU has been examined in consultation with Integrated Finance Wing and after a careful consideration, the competent Authority ordered for prescribing the norms for assessment of the workload of the Branch Postmasters in point system. These norms are furnished in the Annexure.

3. These norms will come into effect from the date of issue of this order and have to be applied for all reviews conducted thereafter.

4. The norms may be communicated to all the concerned under your control for strict compliance.

5. This issues in consultation with Integrated Finance Wing vide their Dy. No.303/FA/10/CS dated 15-12-2010.


Yours faithfully,
Sd.x.x.x.x
(K.RAMESWARA RAO)
Asst. Director General (Est.)








ANNEXURE

NORMS PRESCRIBED FOR ASSESSMENT OF WORK LOAD OF
BRANCH POST MASTERS IN POINT SYSTEM


S.No

Norms of work

Points

Standard prescribed

1.
Handling of unregistered articles
1 point of work load
For every 25 unregistered articles handled in a day

2.
Handling of registered articles
1 point of work load
For every 22 registered articles handled in month

3.
Handling of Money Orders
1 point of work load
For every 15 Money Orders handled in a month

4.
Sale of postage stamps
1 point of work load
For every Rs.900- worth of stamps sold in a month

5.
Handling of cash (*)
1 point of work load
For every Rs.20,000- cash handled in a month

6.
Savings Bank / NSC transactions
1 point of work load
For every 10 transactions in a month

7.
Rural Postal Life Insurance transactions
1 point of work load
For every 10 transactions in a month

8.
Collection of Telephone or any other bills
1 point of work load
For every 20 bills collected in a month

9.
Disbursement of Old age pensions through Money Orders
1 point of work load
For every 15 old age pension Money Orders disbursed in a month

10.
Disbursement of Old age pension through savings bank accounts
1 point of work load
For every 10 old age pension through savings bank in month
11.
Accounts work and receipt and dispatch of mails in a month

--

Fixed 14 points per month


NOTE

1.
The assessment of the work load of the Branch Post masters has to be done in respect of items 2 to 10 on the average of 4 quarterly months statistics. The statistics should be collected from the month following the month in which enumeration returns are collected.
2.
In respect of unregistered articles handled the Branch Postmaster has to furnish 3 days figures in the middle of the month, and the inspecting officer has to collect statistics for 2 days in the middle of the week. The least of the average has to be adopted for assessment of work load.
3.
Unregistered articles handled includes the No. of unregistered articles received for delivery and posted for dispatch from the Branch Post Office.
4.
Registered articles handled includes Registered letters, Parcles, Speed Post articles and Value Payable articles received for delivery and Registered letters / parcels posted for dispatch.
5.
Money Orders handled includes all sorts of Money Orders received for payment and MOs issued from the Branch Office.
6.
Savings Bank transactions include opening, deposit and withdrawal / closure of Savings Bank, Recurring Deposit and Time Deposit accounts.

7.
RPLI transactions include collection of RPLI premium for procurement of new Business and collection of renewal premium.
8
Mahatma Gandhi NREGA is not covered by the present norms and the transactions on account of disbursement of NREGA payments to the beneficiaries and the cash handled should be excluded from the statistics for assessment of workload.
9.
(*) For cash handled orders have been issued already on 15-12-2009. The term "Cash handled" constitute cash handled on account of Money Orders issue / payment, deposits / withdrawals of SB/RD/TD accounts, RPLI premium collection, bills collection and bills payment other than salary paid to GDS staff working in the Branch Office. The cash received as Remittance from Account Office and Remittance sent to Account Office has to be excluded.
10.
14 points is given in lump per month for receipt of Branch office Bag, verification of contents including verification of remittance, writing of BO journal, BO account, preparation of BO Daily Account, tallying of closing balance and dispatch of BO bag including remittance of surplus cash to Account Office.
SD.x.x.x.x
(K.RAMESWARARAO)
Asst. Director Genl.(Est.)

CIRCLE UNION TAKES UP ISSUES RELATING TO POSTMASTER'S CADRE/DELAYED DPCs OF LSG,HSG II & I/MACP AND SEEKS SPECIAL MEETING WITH NEW CPMG

CIRCLE UNION SENDS WELCOME MESSAGE TO MS. HUMERA AHMED CPMG

Office Memorandum on Procedure for Delivery of Speeed Post articles‏‏...

http://www.indiapost.gov.in/Pdf/No.57-01-2010-BD-MD.pdf

INTER-CIRCLE TRANSFER OF INSPECTORS OF POSTS

INTER CIRCLE TRANSFER OF INSPECTOR OF POST OFFICES

PRODUCTS THROUTH POST OFFICES

The Department of Posts has signed agreements with financial institutions including many other organisations to sell their products through Post Offices in the country. List of products sold at national level is as given below.

1
Western Union Money Transfer
International money transfer to India
2
UTI Mutual Funds
Sale of UTI Mutual Funds through post offices
3
Pension Fund Regulatory & Development Authority
Point of Presence for National Pension Scheme Accounts
4
M/s Nirmal Packaging Systems
Sale of Corrugated boxes and Paper board envelops.
5
M/s Narsingh Dass & Co.
Sale of Tyvek Envelops
6
Ministry of Railways
Booking/cancellation of Railway Reservation Tickets under PRS Scheme
7
CBOP( Now merged with HDFC Bank)
Sale/Purchase of foreign exchange
8
Reliance Money Infrastructure Limited
Sale of Gold Coins
9
BSNL
Sale of recharge coupons Sancharnet Cards etc.
10.
India Post SBI tie-up
Department sells assets and liability products of SBI through identified postal outlets.
11.
NABARD-SHG linkage scheme
India Post has entered into a tie-up with NABARD to disburse micro credit to women self help groups (SHGs) on pilot basis.

The Central and State Governments take various measures from time to time to promote and popularize small saving schemes through print and electronic media as well as holding seminars, meetings and providing training to various agencies involved in mobilizing deposits under the schemes. As part of this ongoing exercise, Government has taken following steps to make the small savings schemes more attractive and investor friendly:- -Introduction of Bonus at the rate of 5% on the deposits made under Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) Scheme on or after 8th December, 2007 upon the maturity of the deposit. -The benefit of Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 has been extended to the investments made under 5-Year Post Office Time Deposits Account and Senior Citizens Savings Scheme, with effect from 01.04.2007. -With effect from 1.8.2007, the maximum deposit ceilings of Rs.3.00 lakh and Rs.6.00 lakh under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) Scheme has been raised to Rs.4.50 lakh and Rs.9.00 lakh in respect of single and joint accounts respectively. -The penalty on pre-mature withdrawal of deposits under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) scheme has been rationalized from 3.5% to 2% on withdrawal on or before expiry of three years and 1% on withdrawal after expiry of three years. -All categories of pensioners have been allowed to open and maintain ‘Pension Account’ under Post Office Savings Account Rules, with effect from 11th July, 2007. -The restriction on opening of more than one account during a calendar month under the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme has been removed with effect from 24th May, 2007. -Opening of “Zero deposit/Zero Balance” accounts for workers employed under NREG Act, under Post Office Savings Account Rules, with effect from 26th August 2008. -Opening of “Zero deposit/Zero Balance” accounts for Old Age Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension Scheme, Widows Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme and Disabled Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi National Disabled Pension Scheme with effect from 13th October 2009. -National Savings Institute, a subordinate organization under the Department of Economic Affairs (Budget Division) also maintains its web site i.e nsiindia.gov.in in collaboration with National Informatics Centre to facilitate interface with the public through wider dissemination of information on small savings and on-line registration and settlement of investor’s grievances. This information was given in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on 6th Dec.2010 by Shri Gurudas K amat, the Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

KNOW WHAT POINTS TAKEN UP WITH THE DIRECTORATE ABOUT PROBLEMS IN INITIAL CONSTITUTION OF POSTMASTER'S CADRE

At this initial juncture, there are so many problems which are required to take up with the Directorate, on creation of Post master's Cadre. Our CHQ has therefore sought modifications in the interest of staff and service.

Some important aspects requires immediate kind attention of the Directorate are as under:

1. At present more than 60% of LSG posts, 70% of HSG II posts and HSG posts in all circles remain unfilled up. As suh seeking options from the existing LSG for Postmaster's cadre will end with futile results. To off shoot the problems, the following is suggested.

(i)Please cause instructions to fill up all vacant LSG,HSG II and HSG I posts either permanently or on adhoc basis and thereafter willingness may be called for among the LSG, HSG II and HSG I officials.

(ii)In case if the same is not possible due to recruitment rules, minimum service etc, the officials in MACP I, II & III may be considered in the initial constitution of the Postmaster cadre.

(iii)It may be ensured that at the initial constitution of Postmaster's cadre, 100% of posts should be filled up among the existing willing officials either on seniorityin LSG or MACP or length of PA service. Thereafter, the element of exmination may be introduced.

2. All LSG officials working Accounts line may be permitted to opt for Postmaster's cadre since they are entitled to work as Postmaster in HSG II & HSG I as per the existing recruitment rules.

3. In the initial constitution of various grades of Postmaster while obtaiing option from the exixting official, the required minimum service should not be insisted since in many cases the promotions to HSG II & HSG I were not accorded in time properly. To cite an example, the adhoc HSG I is continuing over three years by granting extension once in six months.

4. Similarly, 25% earmarked for HSG I in Postmaster Group B shall be filled up with the exixting HSG I officials without insisting the minimum required service in the initial coustitution of the cadre.

5. It is further requested to cause instructions that the opted official shall be given preference in posting in the same division in case of identified posts are available in the diision to avert maximum dislocation in the initial constitution.

Apart from the above, the following improvements may please be considered:

(i) Since the Postmaster Grade I is supervisory post, it should be elevated to Pay Band II with Grade Pay of Rs.4200/-. Similar elevation is required in higher cadre also.

(ii) Since a seperate cadre is carved out, 100% of the Senior Postmasters, and Chief Postmasters posts shall also be filled up only among officials in the Postmaster's cadre only. There is no need for any reservation to other catagories other than the Postmaster's cadre.

It has been requested to arrange a meeting with Staff side to discuss all the points stated above in order to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme, minimize dislocation of staff and more volunteers to the nely carved cadre etc.

Unless the above issues are sorted out at the initial constitution, it will have a perennial loss to the employees which will result in resentment only.

All Divisional Secretaries, senior comrads and members are requested to draw attention of the Circle Secretarty on any point which they find necessary to take up in connection with Postmaster's cadre and Identification of Posts for the purpose. I have also requested Senior Com. K.B.Barot Working President CHQ & Ex.C/S Gujarat to study these orders and give his valuable guidance and suggestions in the matter.

Post your comments also.

Rashmin Purohit C/S AIPEU Group-C Gujarat Circle.

M.9427208408, 9723666696

aipeugujarat@gmail.com

STAFF MEETING AT BHUJ (K) FOR GUIDANCE ON POSTMASTER'S CADRE

A staff meeting is held at Bhuj H.O. during 10.00 to 13.00 hrs on 19.12.10 Sunday for discussion and guidance about Postmaster's Cadre. The meeting will be graced by presence of Shri.N.R.Khoja SPO, Shri. G.R.Bhanani ASPo and Shri. N.D.Chavda PM Bhuj. Discussion forum shall be handled by Com.Mihir Gandhi D/S AIPEU Gr.C. Kachchh dn who is also working as APM Accounts. All staff members of Kachchh division are invited to remain present.

There are so many questions in mind of employees and off course there are several problems on its initial constitution of Postmaster's cadre. Circle union is also taking up several issues with circle administration and with the Directorate through CHQ if so required.

In the meantime, such meetings at local levels will be useful to employees in understanding whole matter of intruduction of Postmaster's Cadre.

Circle union appreciates endavours of Com. Mihir Gandhi for holding meeting in his division and wishes success.

MODIFIED ASSURED CAREER PROGRESSION SCHEME FOR THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES - CLARIFICATION REGARDING.

No. 5034/3/2008-(D) (Vol.II)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
(Department of Personnel & Training) / Establishment (D)
North Block, New Delhi the 1st November, 2010

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme for the Central Government Civilian Employees - Clarification regarding.

A joint committee is set up to examine the anomalies pertaining to the Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) vide Department of Personnel & Training O.M.No.11/1/2010-JCA dated 03-05-2010.

2. During the joint committee meeting it was pointed out by the Staff Side that the word 'new organization' of the last line of para 24 of Annexure-I of MACPS dated 19.05.2009 was not in consonance with the spirit of the Scheme. The issue has been examined and it is clarified that in case of transfer 'including unilateral transfer on request, regular service rendered in previous organization / office shall be counted alongwith the regular service in the new organization / office for the purpose of getting financial upgradation under the MACPS. However, financial upgradation under the MACPS shall be allowed in the immediate next higher grade pay in the hierarchy of revised pay bands as given in CCS (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008. Para 24 of MACPS stands amended to this extent.

3. The Staff Side also raised an issue on the 'benchmark' for MACP as given in para 17 of Annexure-I of MACPS dated 19.05.2009, which provides that the financial upgradation would be on non-functional basis subject to fitness, in the hierarchy of grade pay within the PB-1. Thereafter for upgradation under the MACPS, the benchmark of 'good' would be applicable till the grade pay of Rs.6600/- in PB-3. The benchmark will be 'Very Good' for financial upgradation to the promotion to the grade pay of Rs.7600 and above. It was pointed out that in some cases the promotion to the next higher grade was made on the basis of 'fitness' as the method of promotion as specified in the relevant recruitment rules, was 'non-selection'. Therefore, such cases benchmarks should not be insisted upon under the MACPS. The issue has been examined and it is clarified that where the financial upgradation under MACPS also happen to be in the promotional grade and benchmark for promotion is lower than the benchmark for granting the benefits under MACPS as mentioned in para 17 ibid, the benchmark for promotion shall apply to MACP also.

4. All Ministries/Departments may give wide circulation to the contents of this O.M. for general guidance and appropriate action in the matter.

5. Hindi version will follow. Sd/-
(Smita Kumar)Director (Estt-I)

CONSOLIDATED GUIDELINES ON CADRE REVIEW OF

No. I-11011/1/2009-CRD
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training

3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan,
New Delhi-110003
December 14, 2010
Office Memorandum

Subject: Consolidated guidelines on cadre review of Central Group 'A' Services.

The undersigned is directed to say that provisions governing the process of cadre review of Central Group 'A' Services are contained in various Office Memoranda issued by the Department of Personnel and Training and the Department of Expenditure. As a part of this Department's endeavour to keep the personnel policies relevant to current and future needs, these provisions have been reviewed in consultation with various stakeholders and it has been decided to issue a consolidated and revised set of guidelines on cadre review. The revised guidelines are given below. Besides, the broad issues concerning cadre review have been elaborated in the revised Monograph on Cadre Review of Central Group 'A' Services enclosed herewith. The list of existing Central Group 'A' Services is at Annex-I.

2. Formulation of Proposal

(i) The proposal would be formulated, to the extent possible, in consultation with the representatives of service association (s). While drafting the proposal, all issues like expected changes in the Organization's activities, automation, amendment in the business processes, recruitment planning, plugging the skill gaps, cadre structure, career progression, financial implications etc. must be analyzed and made part of the proposal. These issues and their impact on cadre structure have been discussed in Section-5 and Section-6 of the Monograph.

(ii) Full functional justification for each creation of post/upgradation should be given. A job evaluation exercise may be undertaken for each category of posts so as to ensure that different grades are assigned corresponding level of functions and
responsibilities.

(iii) It may be ensured that the cadre review would not have an adverse impact on the feeder grade.

3. Reference to Department of Personnel and Training/Department of
Expenditure

(i) The proposal should be referred to Department of Personnel and Training with the approval of Integrated Finance Division and the Minister in charge.

(ii) The Cadre Controlling Authority would also give a certificate that there is no Court Case pending having a bearing on the cadre review.

(iii) The name (s) of contact officer (s) for further/additional information may be
clearly indicated in the reference.

(iv) The proposal should be examined vis-à-vis the checklist given in Section-6
of the Monograph to ensure that the proposal is complete in all respect.

4. Financial Implications

(i) The proposal having additional financial implications would be entertained
strictly on functional considerations like consistent increase in workload,
horizontal expansion in activities etc.

(ii) While calculating the additional expenditure, the impact of Non-Functional
Upgradation may be taken into account. The calculation sheet must be enclosed
with the proposal.

5. Procedure for cadre review

(i) Every cadre should be reviewed once every five years. The review should be first carried out by the Cadre Controlling Authority, preferably in consultation with the representatives of the service/cadre in question. However, if it is convinced after such a review that no change in the cadre structure is required, the decision should be conveyed to DoPT with the approval of Minister in charge.

(ii) The cadre review proposal would be prepared by the Cadre Controlling Authority in the form of a Note for Committee of Secretaries. DoPT would obtain the approval of Secretary (P) and then refer it to Department of Expenditure for approval of Secretary (Expenditure).

(iii) The Note would then be placed before the Cadre Review Committee by DoPT.

(iv) Based on the recommendation of Cadre Review Committee, the proposal would be submitted for MOS (PP)'s approval. It would then be referred to theDepartment of Expenditure for Finance Minister's approval.

(v) The Cadre Controlling Authority would then take approval of Cabinet. The
Note for Cabinet should ideally be prepared within a month of the Cadre Review
Committee's approval.

6. Composition of Cadre Review Committee-The Cadre Review Committee
would comprise the following functionaries:

(i) Cabinet Secretary Chairman
(ii) Secretary of the Ministry controlling the cadre Member
(iii) Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training Member
(iv) Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure Member
(v) The senior most member of the service/cadre concerned Member

7. Restriction on direct recruitment-There is a restriction on direct recruitment to the extent that it should not exceed 3% of the total cadre strength. The authority to relax the condition rests with DoPT. It has now been decided to do away with this restriction. The Cadre Controlling Authorities are, however, advised not to resort to any bulk recruitment as it would create a bulge in the structure leading to stagnation at later stage. This may be kept in view while projecting recruitment planning.
Sd/-
(Pratima Tyagi)
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India
Tel:24622461
To : All the cadre controlling authorities

FRESH EMPANELMENT OF PRIVATE HOSPITALS AND

No: S.11011/23/2009-CGHS D.II/Hospital Cell (Part I)
Government of India
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Department of Health & Family Welfare
*************
Maulana Azad Road, Nirman Bhawan
New Delhi 110 108 dated the 16th November , 2010

O F F I C E M E M O R A N D U M

Subject: Fresh empanelment of private hospitals and revision of Room Rent
applicable under CGHS.

The undersigned is directed to state that CGHS had initiated action for fresh
empanelment of private hospitals under CGHS and also for the revision of package
rates (which were fixed in 2006-07), to be paid to hospitals, by floating tender for the
same. On the basis of the responses received package rates for various procedures
/ treatments have been arrived at and have been uploaded in the website of CGHS:
www.mohfw.nic.in\cghsnew\index.asp and can be downloaded.

2. "Package Rate" shall mean and include lump sum cost of inpatient treatment /day care / diagnostic procedure for which a CGHS beneficiary has been permitted bythe competent authority or for treatment under emergency from the time of admission to the time of discharge including (but not limited to) – (i) Registration charges, (ii)Admission charges, (iii) Accommodation charges including patients diet, (iv)Operation charges, (v) Injection charges, (vi) Dressing charges, (vii) Doctor /consultant visit charges, (viii) ICU / ICCU charges, (ix) Monitoring charges, (x)Transfusion charges, (xi) Anesthesia charges, (xii) Operation theatre charges, (xiii)Procedural charges / surgeon's fee, (xiv) Cost of surgical disposables and all sundries used during hospitalization, (xv) Cost of medicines, (xvi) Related routine and essential investigations, (xvii) Physiotherapy charges etc. (xviii) Nursing care and charges for its services.

(b) Cost of Implants / stents / grafts is reimbursable in addition to package rates as per CGHS ceiling rates for Implants / stents / grafts or as per actual, in case there
is no CGHS prescribed ceiling rates.

(c) Treatment charges for new born baby are separately reimbursable in addition to delivery chares for mother.

d) The hospitals empanelled under CGHS shall not charge more than the
package rates / rates.

2.2 Package rates envisage upto a maximum duration of indoor treatment as follows:


12 days for Specialised (Super Specialties) treatment;

7 days for other Major Surgeries;

3 days for Laparoscopic surgeries / normal deliveries; and

1 day for day care / Minor (OPD) surgeries.

2.3 However, there are certain procedures where there is no prescribed package
rate under CGHS. Similarly, there are medical emergencies where the treatment is
mainly conservative. The admissible amount in such cases is calculated item wise,
room rent, procedures, investigation , etc.,.

Therefore, it has now been decided to revise the rates applicable for room rent
(Accommodation Charges) for different categories of wards as given below:

General ward -Rs.1000/- per day

Semi-private ward -Rs. 2000/- per day

Private ward -Rs.3000/- per day

3. CGHS beneficiaries are entitled to facilities of private, semi-private or general
ward depending on their basic pay / pension. The entitlement is as follows:-

S. No
Basic Pay (without the inclusion of grade pay)
Entitlement

1.
Up to Rs. 13,950/-
General Ward
2.
Between Rs.13,951/ - and Rs.19,530/-
Semi-Private Ward
3.
Rs. 19,540/- and above
Private Ward


4.2 This issues with the concurrence of Internal Finance Division in the Ministry of
Health & Family Welfare, vide Dy. No: AS & FA / 3932 /2010 dated the 8th November
, 2010.

The revised rates will come into effect from the date of issue of this Office Memorandum.

A copy of this Office Memorandum along with rate list and a copy of MOA are
placed on the internet at http://mohfw.nic.in/cghsnew/index.asp.

[R Ravi]
Director
[Tel: 2306 3483]

CONFEDERATION CIRCULAR NO.23 DATED 14th DECEMBER-2010

Dear Comrade,

We write this in continuation of our circular letter No. 22 dated.6th December, 2010 wherein we had conveyed the decisions taken at the National Council meeting held at Mumbai on 1st December, 2010. The Central Trade Unions had convened a meeting of all federations on 8th December, 2010 at NRMU office at New Delhi. Since the undersigned had been out of Delhi, we could not participate in the said meeting. The meeting had discussed of the need to make the Workers march to Parliament programme slated for 23rd Feb. 2011 a grand success by eliciting the participation of large number of employees and workers. As you are aware we had discussed the issue in our last National Council meeting and had taken the decision to mobilise large number of Government employees in the march.

In order to ensure that the CGEs from various states do participate in this important event, it would be better that the State Committees take steps immediately in the matter. In the annexure to this letter we have indicated minimum number of comrades, each State Committee to deploy in this programme. While it should be the endeavour of the neighbouring States to mobilise larger number of employees, the far off State Committees are requested to meet and identify the comrades and book their to and fro passage and indicate to the CHQ as to whether any arrangements must be made for their stay etc. At Delhi. Unless the number is indicated it would be difficult to book accommodation for stay at Delhi. The comrades who are deployed to participate in the programme from far off States are requested to please reach Delhi latest by 22nd night as the trains are likely to be delayed on 23rd Feb. 2011. The neighbouring States may kindly arrange buses to carry the comrades to Delhi and back. They are also requested to make these arrangements as early as possible and intimate us so that we can make arrangements for parking of these vehicles as large number of vehicles is likely to be reaching Delhi on that day carrying comrades to participate in the programme. As and when we receive any other details from the sponsoring committee of this programme we shall intimate the same to you.

With greetings,

Yours fraternally,

K.K.N.Kutty
Secretary General



(Minimum Number of comrades to be deployed by each State. The number is determined taking into account the distance and the number of employees working in each State. All State committees are requested to kindly ensure that the minimum indicated is adhered to.)

Kerala -30, Karnatakla-30,T,Nadu-50, A.P-50. West Bengal -60, Assam (including all NE States) -40, Orissa-20, Jharkhand-20, Chattisgarh-20. Maharashtra-Mumbai -50, Vidharba -30, Gujarath-40, Bihar -50, J & K, 10

Delhi – 2000, Rajasthan(Jodhpur, Jaipur, Udaipur-100. Haryana (Rohtak, Ambala, Panipet, Kurukshetra)-100, Western UP-300. (Lucknow, Baireilly, Meerut, Agra, Aligarh, Ghaziabad etc. Eastern U.P. (Allahabad, Varanasi, Gorakhpur etc-150, Punjab (Jullunder, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Chandigarh) -150) Himachal Pradesh –Simla and Solan-50, Madhya Pradesh (indore, Jabalpur, Bhopal and Gwalior)-75

POSTAL ASSISTANTS SELECTED FOR THE YEAR 2009-10 ARE TO BE APPOINTED WITH AN IN-HOUSE TRAINING BEFORE FORMAL INDUCTION TRAINING

West Bengal Circle Office has circulated a decision of the Postal Directorate, New Delhi, to offer appointment to the selected Postal Assistants against the vacancies for the years 2009-10, with an in-house training without delaying for the formal induction training.
The excerpts from the order of the Directorate circulated under our Circle Office no. Rectt/ R-8/ Direct Quota/ 2009-10 dated 22.11.2010 are reproduced below.

'MOST IMMEDIATE
No. 60-9 / 2010-SPB-I
Government of India
Ministry of Communications & IT
Department of Posts
Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg
New Delhi - 110001
Dated 10 November, 2010
To,
All Chief Post Masters General.

Sir / Madam,
.............. at present there is acute shortage of Postal Assistants/ Sorting Assistants (PAs/SAs) in the Circles with the result that many references are received from VIPs pointing out the shortage. Apart from it the issue of shortage of staff is raised in both the Houses of Parliament. ........
2. As per the procedure being followed the candidates selected for appointment of PA / SA after the completion of pre-appointment formalities viz. character and antecedents verification, medical examination and verification of their educational certificates are required to undergo training in PTCs before their services could be utilized. This often causes delay in making the offer of appointments because of nonavailability of seats with the result that they start looking for opportunities elsewhere and ultimately a good percentage of the selected candidates does not become available for appointment and the vacancies remain unfilled.
3. The matter has been considered in the Directorate and it has been decided by the competent authority that the Circles should take immediate action to ensure that the pre-appointment formalities of the candidates are completed at the earliest. In this regard following time-line may be followed :
Declaration of results -------------- by 21.11.2010.
Issue of offer of appointment ...... -------------- by 10.12.2010.
Completion of pre-appointment formalities ------ by 10.02.2011.
Issue of appointment order -------------- by 25.02.2011.
..................................
5. On completion of the pre-appointment formalities in respect of the candidates they may straight away be issued offer of appointment by the Circles. This would motivate them to join as PA/SA immediately. Thereafter when they join they may be deputed for training as soon as the slots become available in the PTCs (Postal Training Center). Pending their training the Circle may issue their posting orders and commence their in house training by chalking out the course as far as possible based on PTC syllabus depending on the resources available with them. ........
.................................
Yours faithfully,
Sd.
(V.C.KAJLA)
Director (SPN)
Copy To: DDG (Training)'
As per the spirit of the above observation by the Directorate, the Circle Union requests all Divisional Secretaries and organisers to closely watch over the progress of the joining procedure so that it is not delayed at any stage. Circle Union will meet the Chief Postmaster General on Wednesday / Thursday with the request to instruct all Divisional Heads clearly and accurately, as some of them have made few correspondences seeking clarifications.
Candidates and their guardians may please keep close contact with our secretaries and try to expedite the verification procedure by contacting respective authorities, if possible.

CHQ Seeks improvement in Postmaster's cadre

Ref: - P/4-1/Postmaster’s Cadre Dated – 09.12.2010
To,
Ms. Radhika Doraisamy
Secretary
Department of Posts
Dak Bhawan New Delhi – 110001
Madam,
Sub: - Creation of Post master’s cadre – problem there on in the initial constitution – request consideration.
At the outset, we wish to place on record that we are not against to the introduction of Postmaster’s cadre but seek certain modifications in the interest of staff and service. The following are the few which require your immediate kind attention.
1. At present more than 60% of LSG posts 70% of HSG II posts & HSG I posts in all circles remain unfilled up. As such seeking options from the existing LSG for Post master’s cadre will end with futile results. To off shoot the problems, the following is suggested.
(i) Please cause instructions to fill up all vacant LSG, HSG-II & HSG-I posts either permanently or on adhoc basis and thereafter willingness may be called for among the LSG, HSG-II & HSG-I officials.
(ii) In case if the same is not possible due to recruitment rules, minimum service etc, the officials in MACP I, II & III may be considered in the initial constitution of the Postmaster cadre.
(iii) It may be ensured that at the initial constitution of Postmaster’s cadre, 100% of posts should be filled up among the existing willing officials either on seniority in LSG or MACP or length of PA service. Thereafter, the element of examination may be introduced.
2. All the LSG officials working in Accounts line may be permitted to opt for Postmaster’s cadre since they are entitled to work as Postmaster in HSG-II & HSG-I as per the existing recruitment rules.
3. In the initial constitution of various grades of Postmaster while obtaining option from the existing officials, the requisite minimum service should not be insisted since in many cases the promotions to HSG-II & HSG-I were not accorded in time properly. To cite an example, the adhoc HSG-I is continuing over three years by granting extension once in six months.
4. Similarly, 25% earmarked for HSG-I in Postmaster Group B shall be filled up with the existing HSG I officials without insisting the minimum required service in the initial constitution of the cadre.
5. It is further requested to cause instructions that the opted officials shall be given preference in posting in the same division in case of identified posts are available in the division to avert maximum dislocation in the initial constitution.
Apart from the above, the following improvements may please be considered.
(i) Since the Postmaster Grade-I is supervisory post, it should be elevated to Pay Band II with Grade Pay of Rs.4200/- Similar elevation is required in higher cadre also.
(ii) Since a separate cadre is carved out, 100% of the Senior Postmasters, and Chief Postmasters posts shall also be filled up only among officials in the Postmaster’s cadre only. There is no need for any reservation to other categories other than the Postmaster cadre.
It is requested to arrange a meeting at the earliest with Staff Side to discuss all the points stated above in order to ensure smooth implementation of the scheme, minimize dislocation of staff and more volunteers to the newly carved cadre etc. Unless the above issues are sorted out at the initial constitution, it will have a perennial loss to the employees which will result in resentment only.
It is requested to consider the above and cause appropriate orders at the earliest.
With profound regards,
Yours sincerely,
(K. V. Sridharan)
General Secretary

LIST OF POST IDENTIFIED FOR PM CADRE IN GUJARAT CIRCLE

SPECIAL BENEFITS IN CASES OF DEATH AND DISABILITY IN SERVICE - PAYMENT OF DISABILITY PENSION / FAMILY PENSION - RELAXATION OF QUALIFYING SERVICE-

No. 33/5/2009-P&PW (F)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions
Department of Pension & Pensioner's Welfare
3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhavan,

Khan Market, New Delhi-II 0003
Dated the 10th December, 2010

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Special benefits in cases of death and disability in service - payment of disability pension/family pension - relaxation of qualifying service-

The undersigned is directed to say that the scales of disability pension admissible
under CCS (EOP) Rules were laid down in para 3 of Department of Pension & Pensioners'Welfare's O.M. No.45/22/97-P&PW(C) dated 3.2.2000. The said O.M. dated 3.2.2000was modified vide Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare's O.M. No.45/3/2008-P&PW (F) dated 18-11-2008.

2. The service element of the disability pension under Categories 'B' and 'C' of this
Departments' O.M. No.45/22/97-P&PW(C) dated 3.2.2000 is regulated by the CCS
(Pension) Rules, 1972 and CCS (EOP) Rules, according to which only service gratuity is admissible to Government servants with less than 10 years qualifying service and pension is admissible for qualifying service of 10 years or more. The matter has been reviewed by the Government considering the hardships being faced by the disabled Govt. servants who have less than 10 years qualifying service at the time of discharge and it has been decided that the disability pension of Govt. servants who are discharged from Govt. service will be regulated as under:

Disability Pension - for cases covered under categories 'B' and 'C'

(1) Disability pension comprising a service element equal to the retiring pension(@50% of the emoluments or average emoluments received during the last 10months, whichever is more beneficial to the Government servant) and gratuity admissible under the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972, plus disability element equal to 30% of basic pay, for 100% disability. There shall be no condition of minimum qualifying service for earning service element. No service gratuity would be admissible. The condition of minimum of qualifying service of 5years for payment of gratuity would continue to be admissible/applicable in accordance with Rule 50 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

(2) For disability less than 100%, disability element of disability pension shall be reduced proportionately. In cases of disability pension where permanent disability is not less than 60%, the disability pension (i.e. total of service element plus disability element) shall not be less than 60% of the reckonable emoluments last drawn subject to a minimum of Rs. 7000/- per month.

Disability pension - For cases covered under Category 'D'

(I) Disability pension comprising a service element equal to the retiring pension(@50% of the emoluments or average emoluments received during the last 10months, whichever is more beneficial to the Govt. servant) and gratuity to which the employee would have been entitled to on the basis of his pay on the date of invalidation but counting service up to the date on which he would have retired in the normal course and disability element equal in amount to normal family pension subject to the condition that the aggregate of the service and disability element shall not be less than 80% of the pay last drawn, for 100%disability. There shall be no condition of minimum qualifying service for earning service element. No service gratuity would be admissible.

(2)For lower percentage of disability, the disability element shall be proportionately lower as at present subject to the broad banding of percentage of disability as in OM dated 3/2/2000.

Disability pension - For cases covered under Category 'E'

(1) Disability pension comprising a service element equal to the retiring pension(@50% of the emoluments or average emoluments received during the last 10months, whichever is more beneficial to the Govt. servant) and gratuity to which the employee would have been entitled to on the basis of his pay on the date of invalidation but counting service up to the date on which he would have retired in the normal course and disability element equal to pay last drawn. There shall be no condition of minimum qualifying service for earning service elements. No service gratuity would be admissible.

The condition that the aggregate of the service and disability elements shall not exceed the pay last drawn for 100% disability - stands withdrawn w.e.f.1.7.2009.

(2) For lower percentage of disability, the disability element shall be proportionately lower as at present subject to the broad banding of percentage of disability as in OM dated 3.2.2000.

3. Other terms and conditions in the CCS (EOP) Rules and Liberalized Pensionary
Awards Scheme which are not specifically modified by these orders shall continue to
remain operative.

4. These orders will be effective from 01.01.2006.
5. This issues with the concurrence of the Ministry of Finance, Department of
Expenditure vide their U.O. NO.515/EV/201 0 dated 26.10.2010.

6. In so far as persons belonging to the Indian Audit & Accounts Department, these
orders issue after consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India.
Sd/-
(Tripti P Ghosh)
Director
T .No.24624802--

FIXATION OF PAY OF RE-EMPLOYED PENSIONERS-TREATMENT OF MILITARY SERVICE PAY.

SUB: FIXATION OF PAY OF RE-EMPLOYED PENSIONERS-TREATMENT OF MILITARY SERVICE PAY.

D.G. Posts No. 4-17/2010-PENSION Dated 06.12.2010.

I am directed to forward herewith a copy of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Department of Pension and Pensioner's Welfare) O.M. No. 3/19/2009-Estt. Pay II dated 8.11.2010 regarding the above mentioned subject received from Department of Pension and Pensioner's Welfare, New Delhi for information guidance and necessary action.

This issues with the approval of DDG (Estt.).
Sd/-xxx
(P.P. Chawla)
Section Officer (Pension)

COPY OF MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS (DEPARTMENT OF PENSION AND PENSIONER'S WELFARE) O.M. NO. 3/19/2009-ESTT. PAY II DATED 8.11.2010.

SUB: FIXATION OF PAY OF RE-EMPLOYED PENSIONERS-TREATMENT OF MILITARY SERVICE PAY.

The undersigned is directed to refer to the orders issued vide O.M. dated 5.4.2010 on fixation of pay of re-employed pensioners. These orders inter-alia lay down that on re-employment in civilian organizations, Military Service Pay shall not be admissible. However, the benefit of MSP given to all retired Defence Forces officers/personnel by reckoning it at the time of calculation of their pension (notionally in the case of pre-1.1.2006 pensioners) should not be withdrawn. Accordingly while the pension of such re-employed pensioners will include the element of MSP, they will not be granted MSP while working in civilian organizations.

In the instructions issued by the Ministry of Defence vide their letter No. 1/69/2008/D (Pay/Service) dated 24th July 2009, Pre-retirement pay has been defined as under:

(i) In respect of re-employment taking place on/or 1.1.2006 pre-retirement pay for those who retired after 1.1.2006 means the pay in the pay band plus grade pay but inclusive of Non-Practicing Allowance(NPA) if any, last drawn before retirement.
(ii) In case of officers who retired before1.1.2006 and also those who retired after 1.1.2006 in the pre-revised pay scales without opting for the revised pay scales promulgated on or after 1.1.2006 the pay will be basic pay including stagnating increment and Rank pay plus the Dearness pay and Dearness allowance drawn at the time of retirement.

As per these orders, for pre-2006 retirees rank pay is included as a part of pay but for post-2006 retirees, the MSP is not reckoned in the pre-retirement pay for the purposes of pay fixation on re-employment. However, for pension purposes the reckonable emoluments are- basic pay + grade pay + MSP + NPA wherever admissible. Therefore, while MSP is not taken into consideration for the purpose of pay fixation on re-employment, the element of MSP in pension is deducted.

It has been decided in consultation with the Department of Expenditure, that since the element of MSP is not reckoned in the pay fixation on re-employment, it need not be reduced from the pension either. Hence, in respect of all those Defence Officers/personnel, whose pension contains an element of MSP that need not be deducted from the pay fixed on re-employment.
Sd/-
(Mukesh Chaturvedi)
Deputy Secretary

REMIT YOUR OUTSTANDING QUOTA BEFORE ALL INDIA CONFERENCE

REQUEST:
Dear Comrades,

It is once again requested to please calculate Quota of your division to be remitted to Circle Union, CHQ and NFPE. Please ensure it's remittance before end of December 2010. No division should remain in arrears before All India Conference. This is important for us.

ALLOCATION:

Branch 14.50

Circle 08.00

CHQ 06.00

NFPE 01.50

Total 30.00

Each of Divisions must have received 25 copies of Handbook.2011. The cost of Rs.40 per copy has to be remitted to CHQ. Please popularise this book because each member would like to have it for updating their knowledge which will be useful for them.

ABOUT " THAKKADY" PLACE OF STUDY CAMP 13-15 FEBRUARY 2011

NFPE CIRCULAR



PF. No. 01(e)/4/201 Dated: 26th November, 2010


To

All General Secretaries, CHQ Office Bearers
Circle Secretaries of all affiliated Unions


STUDY CAMP AT THEKKADY (KERALA)

Dear Comrades,


A study Camp of NFPE is scheduled to be held at Thekkady (Kerala) from 13th to 15th February 2010. All NFPE office bearers and office bearers of All India Unions and Circle Secretaries/Circle Presidents should compulsorily attend the study camp. The up and down Tickets may be booked early. Nearest Railway Station is Kottayam or Ernakulum Junction. From Kottayam or Ernakulum (Kochi) 3 hours journey by Bus. Kumily is one of the famous tourist destination of Kerala, which is near to Munnar. On 15th February Reception Committee has arranged sight seen trip.

Delegate fee Rs. 500/-

Contact No.(i) Com. T.D. Jose Divisional Secretary P-3
Mobile No 09447151902 Idukki Division.

(ii) Com. Peer Mohammad, All India Vice President P-4
Mobile No.09995283187


-- M.KrishnanSecretary General NFPE
NB: Com.Prakash Rathod Circle President. Com. Rashmin Purohit Circle Secretaty and Com. S K Vaishnav Asst. Circle Secretary will attend the above study camp.

THEKKADY, Kerala : a beautiful place

Thekkady, is one of India's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, where you can watch wildlife at close range. The vegetation, the flora and fauna and the birds of Thekkady are uniquely rich, vast and varied that it does not bear semblance to any other wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Even a casual visitor to this place will not fail to observe the special ecological pattern of Thekkady. Thekkady - The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations. In the crisp, cool air of the Western Ghats you will experience the most enchanting holiday. With the animals of the wild and the simple mountain people. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Thekkady sanctuary is one of the best in the country for watching and photographing wild life. Thekkady is on the border with state of Tamil Nadu , in fact just 5 kilometers from the border town of Kumily which is very well connected by bus to both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Notable among the denizens of Periyar are the tigers, the majestic Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. Amongst the avifauna, the most profuse are herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill. A cruise through the waters of Periyar lake around which the wild -life sanctuary is situated, offers a soul - stirring pleasant experience.

HOW TO REACHThe nearest Airport and Railhead is Kochi which is 130 Kilometers from Thekkady. WHEN TO GOThe best time to visit Thekkady is during September to March
WHAT TO SEE

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Entry : 0600 to 1800 hrs) -Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.
The sanctuary watch towers - There are three watch towers for observing wild life - at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi. Reservations can be made at the Forest information Counter, Thekkady. Tel. : +91-486-322028.
Kumily (4 km from Thekkady) - This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily.

Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady) - Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.

Pandikuzhi ( 5 km from Kumily) - This picturesque place is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border is a popular picnic spot. Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.

Mangala Devi Temple ( 15 km from Thekkady) - This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 M above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. Tel. : 91-486-322027.

Chellarkovil ( 15 km from Kumily) - This sleepy little village with its spectacular view of the plains (and cascading waterfalls during the monsoons) is a feast for your eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Kambam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.

Vandiperiyar ( 18 km from Thekkady) - The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium.

Vandanmedu ( 25 km from Kumily) - This is one of the world's largest auction centres for Cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantaions of Vandanmedu is a pleasent experience.

Pullumedu ( 43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar) - The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed from a jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady Tel.+ 91-486-322027 or The Range Officer, Vallakkadavu Tel. :+ 91-486-352515