central government pensioners associations,...

R.N.I. No. CHAENG/2000/2569

Volume- Subscription : yearly.. 150/-Issue - 5 5 years .. 600/-

12

CE SN NT OIR TA AL ICG OO SV AE 'R SN RM EE NN IOT SPEN

CHANDIGARH

CENTRAL GOVERNMENT PENSIONERS ASSOCIATIONS, CHANDIGARH

Sept. - Oct. 2012

INDEX

KALEIDOSCOPEParity in Pension Shri R K Sehgal, a retired Chief Engineer of Haryana Power Generation Corporation, in his write-up captioned ' One Rank, one pension, for civil servants too' ( The Tribune, Chandigarh, datelined 7 Sept,2012) has advocated full parity in pension for all past and future retirees. Besides quoting some well known judgements of the Apex Court, he has appealed for introduction of 'Common Pension Rules' for pre-2006 and post-2006 pensioners. The Union cabinet approval,( 24 Sept,2012) for better pensionary benefits to armed forces personnel is a step ahead towards the 'One Rank, One Pension' (OROP) demand, however, the armed forces are not satisfied with this package, as it falls short of their demands. On the other hand the civil employees' struggle for achieving full parity in pension is still a far cry. Their demand for 'modified Parity', as per the judgement of 01 Nov, 2011, of Principal Bench of CAT, Delhi, which has been challenged by the Govt of India, is pending hearing at the Delhi High Court level ,next date of hearing being 29 Nov,2012. The judgement of 01 Nov, 2011 had sought to restore the modified parity in pension to pre-2006 retirees. In the light of this, the struggle for full parity in pension is not easy, but our efforts in this direction must continue.Reconstitution of Advisory & Editorial Board of Pensioners Coordinator Consequent to the election of a new Management Committee of CCCGPA, Chandigarh, the Advisory & Editorial Board of the magazine has undergone a change, The Reconstituted Board is published on the Rear Cover. Besides, the workload has been redistributed. The subscribers to the magazine may now remit their renewal subscription to Shri M L Panghotra, at 1148, Sector 60, Mohali-160059 ( Ph: 0172-2225147 / 2721308 / 9217912203), as per appeal published on rear inner cover.

1. Healthcare / CGHS 1-8

2. Service,Pensionary & Allied matters 9-28

3. Miscellaneous 29-31

4. Brief Profile Sh M L Panghotra, Chairman, CCCGPA 32

COORDINATION COMMITTEE OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT PENSIONER'S ASSOCIATIONS,

CHANDIGARHSub: Nomination of Executive Members to the CCCGPA Managing Committee. Sh. M.L. Panghotra chairman CCCGPA in consultation with recently elected office bearers, nominated Executive members to the CCCGPA managing committee for the term 2012-2014 during the meeting held in his chamber on 6.08.2012.

Department / Assn Elected Officer Bearers Ex-Officio Members Nominated Members

P & T & BSNL Rajpal Sharma,( Secy Gen) Joginder Singh,( Org secy) Pyara Singh ( V C)

K.C. Bhagat, J.S. Kalra,

N.S. Sahani,

Kamlesh Dadwal

I A & ID, CHD. M.L. Panghotra, ( Chairman ) J.S. Lalia ( V C )

K.S. Ramotra,(President) G.S. Pathania ( Gen Secy)

Didar Singh,

G.S. Bains,

R.C. Hastir, I.D. Mittal,

G.S. Saini,

Railway Sr. Citizen W elfare Society

H.S. Batra,( President) Harchandan Singh ( Secy

Gen )

N.P. Mohan

Paramilitary P.S. Bedi ( Sr V C )

Harbhajan Singh ( Gen Secy)

Central Government Welfare Society

Jagtar Singh,( Jt Secy)

M.S. Toor, ( President)

M.S. Walia ( Gen Secy)

Association or Labour Bureau

G.B. Singh,( President)

Herwant Singh ( Gen secy)

IA & ID, PKL

K.L. Sabharwal ( President) , S.M. Shukla ( Gen secy)

ESIC,

N.P. Maudgil, ( President)

Garib Singh ( gen secy)

Defence Accounts Pensioners

Welfare

Association

R.P. Sharma ( Fin Secy)

D.C. Gupta (President) , Darshan Lal ( Gen secy)

Survey of India

C.S. Joshi,( President)

G.S. Kandhari( Gen secy)

Total

8

17

10 Legal Advisor A.L. Vohra

Pensioners' Coordinator

Sept. - Oct. 2012

1

Healthcare / CGHS

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF ADVISROY COMMITTEE HELD ON 31-07-2012 IN THE CGHS

WELLNESS CENTRE NO-1, SECTOR 45, CHANDIGARHThe meeting was attended by the following members:- (1) Sh.P.S.Bedi-DIG(Retd)-Sr.Vice Chairman, Central Govt. Pensioners Coordination Committee, Chandigarh. (2) Sh S R Bhardwaj, Defence Accounts Pensioners Welfare Society(3) Sh.G.S.Bhogal, Gen.Sec, Senior Citizens Forum, Zirakpur.(4) Sh D D Sharma, Survey of India, Representative Serving Employees.(5) Sh Ravi Kumar, Representative, Goyal Medicos II, Industrial Area Phase 2, Chandigarh (Local Chemist)(6) Dr. Ashwani Kumar Seniaray, Chairperson, Advisory Committee, C M O I/C, CGHS WC-1,

Sector 45, Chandigarh.Welcome Address:

Dr. Ashwani Kumar Seniaray, CMO (NFSG) In charge CGHS Wellness Center No 1, welcomed the members of the Advisory Committee.

The CMO informed the committee members that the Wellness Center is facing acute shortage of Paramedical staff. The staff Nurse is on maternity leave since 30 March, 2012 and one of the Pharmacists is proceeding on leave w. e f. 01 August, 2012. It is not feasible for single pharmacist to man three counters simultaneously.

The members of the Advisory committee, while reviewing the minutes of the meeting held in the office of Add Director CGHS, in June, 2012, enjoined upon the CMO to request the Add Director, CGHS, Chandigarh to inform about the progress of the main points discussed in that meeting for dissemination to the CGHS beneficiaries, especially in respect of 5 points listed in the minutes of advisory Committee meeting, held on 30 June,2012. There is need to take up case with higher CGHS authorities to post more Paramedical staff to ensure smooth functioning of this Wellness Center.MRC status/Pendency of claims: As per the information from Addl Director Office, the Medical Reimbursement Bills of the CGHS pensioner beneficiaries have been cleared up to May, 2012. MRCs received in June, 2012 are under process.Performance of Local Chemist: The local chemist was asked to ensure that the L P medicines are supplied in time as per the directions. Availability of Drugs in the WC:

As per records, there are 30 Generic items and 129 Proprietary items available in the WC. Amenities for the beneficiaries:

Sh G S Bhogal, pointed out that there seems to be no progress in arranging proper, cashless treatment of such important tests like ECG, Echo, TMT and Holter etc. The Add Director CGHS, Chandigarh may again be requested to take personal interest to expedite the same for early mitigation of CGHS beneficiaries' problems.

Shri S K Bhardwaj, pointed out that Laparoscopic surgery is quite common these days, and it is allowed in various CGHS cities in India, He queried as to why Chandigarh CGHS beneficiaries are being discriminated and denied this facility. Add Director may take immediate action to introduce this surgical procedure in Chandigarh also without delay,

Shri P S Bedi, Sr Vice Chairman, CCCGPA, intimated the details of the enquiry carried out in the case of Dialyses process by the Fortis Hospital, Mohali. He gave his report in writing, addressed to the Add director, CGHS, Chandigarh for further action. Shri P S Bedi, also raised the point about the issue of Smart cards to the beneficiaries of CGHS Chandigarh, as they are facing problem during visits to other CGHS cities for getting medical cover. Although, CGHS higher authorities have allowed the CGHS cover to all beneficiaries throughout India, as per the Ministry of H & FW instructions contained in their O M dated 16 March, 2011, yet, as they do not have Smart cards, they are not entertained at the CGHS stations, where Smart Cards have been introduced.

Shri P S Bedi also intimated that in reply to an application under RTI, DG Health Services vide letter No RTI-12034/78/2012-CGHS-III dated 18 June, 2012, intimated the criteria for opening new


Sept. - Oct. 2012

2

CGHS wellness centers as 2000 cards for existing CGHS cities. On instructions from DG Health Services, Add Director CGHS, Chandigarh intimated that in May 2012, there were 8151 CGHS Card holders catering for 23023 beneficiaries' dependant on CGHS Wellness Center, Chandigarh.Sh P S Bedi also stated that “There are reports of opening more wellness Centers in and around Delhi. Thus higher CGHS authorities should not deny this facility to Chandigarh CGHS beneficiaries. Denial of additional CGHS wellness centers in Chandigarh for such large number of dependant beneficiaries is detrimental to better healthcare services to the beneficiaries.”Add Director CGHS may be requested to strongly take up case with higher CGHS authorities in this respect. CCCGPA, Chandigarh has already taken up case with CGHS authorities in New Delhi.

Shri D D Sharma, representative of serving employees, raised the point about reference to the private empanelled hospitals. There was doubt regarding the authority for approval for the same. The CMO pointed out that as per instructions contained in Ministry of H & FW OM No S-11011/6/06-CGHS(P) dated 11-7-1997, under the heading ' Procedure for referral to private empanelled hospitals', sub-para (a) (i) –“ In case of serving government servants, the permission letter , for taking such treatment in a CGHS recognized Private/ referral hospital of choice in the same city, will be issued by the parent department / office for the same.”( as published in Swamy booklet on Central govt Health Scheme-page 256)Staff Punctuality & Behavior:The conduct and behavior of the staff of the Wellness Center has been very good. They are courteous and helpful to the senior/aged CGHS beneficiaries..Cleanliness & Maintenance of Wellness Centre:The Wellness Centre was found to be clean and well maintained. The rush of large number of OPD patients at the Wellness Center continues to be a matter of concern, which requires immediate attention of higher CGHS authorities calling for opening of additional CGHS dispensaries in Panchkula, Mohali and extension counter of the dispensary for Chandigarh. Members felt that Chandigarh is being discriminated in this respect.Grievance Redressal:The complaint box was opened and no letter was found. ******MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF ADVISROY COMMITTEE HELD ON 31-08-2012 IN THE CGHS WELLNESS CENTRE NO-1, SECTOR 45, CHANDIGARHThe meeting was attended by the following members:-(1) Sh Raghubir Singh, IAAS (Retd) formerly Add. Secretaryy, Min of H & F W. (2) Sh.P.S.Bedi-DIG(Retd)-Sr.Vice Chairman, Central Govt. Pensioners Coordination Committee, Chandigarh. (3) Sh S R Bhardwaj, Defence Accounts Pensioners Welfare Society(4) Sh.G.S.Bhogal, Gen.Sec, Senior Citizens Forum, Zirakpur.(5) Sh D D Sharma, Survey of India, Representative Serving Employees.(6) Sh Raj Kumar, Representative, Goyal Medicos II, Industrial Area Phase 2, Chandigarh (Local Chemist)(7) Dr. Ashwani Kumar Seniaray, Chairperson, Advisory Committee, C M O I/C, CGHS WC-1,

Sector 45, Chandigarh.Welcome Address:

Dr. Ashwani Kumar Seniaray, CMO (NFSG) In charge CGHS Wellness Center No 1, welcomed the members of the Advisory Committee. CMO intimated that Add director CGHS had visited the Prime Diagnostic Centre in Sector 24, Chandigarh recently.MRC status/Pendency of claims: As per the information from Addl Director's office, the Medical Reimbursement Bills of the CGHS pensioner beneficiaries have been cleared up to June, 2012. MRCs received in July, 2012 are under process.Performance of Local Chemist: The local chemist was asked to continue to supply the L P medicines in time as per directions. A letter has also been written to the Proprietor by the Add Director CGHS on this issue. Availability of Drugs in the WC:

As per records, there are 11 Generic items and 75 Proprietary items available in the WC.


Sept. - Oct. 2012

3

Amenities for the beneficiaries:The CMO intimated that the problem of such important tests like ECG, Echo, TMT and Holter etc

are likely to be resolved soon. A D CGHS had recently visited the Prime Diagnostic Centre, located in Sector 24, and sent his recommendations to CGHS higher authorities.

Regarding the grievance of one of the CGHS beneficiary, pertaining to dialyses procedure by Fortis Hospital, it has been resolved to the satisfaction of the beneficiary. However, it was pointed out that matter be sorted out in toto with the all empanelled hospitals, in respect of all CGHS beneficiaries to forestall similar situation .

Shri P S Bedi, raised the point regarding renewal of CGHS Cards by the elderly beneficiaries, particularly the beneficiaries of P & T, who have to renew their subscription on yearly basis. Some of these CGHS beneficiaries in their 80s and above, find it very inconvenient and difficult to visit the A D

thCGHS office located on the 4 floor in the Kendriya Sadan, Sector 9 A, Chandigarh. Some set-up may be created at the CGHS Wellness Centre in Sector 45, where such beneficiaries can come for verification and submission of required documents / subscription.

Shri P S Bedi, again raised the point regarding overcrowding in the CGHS Wellness Center, Chandigarh. He requested that case be taken up with the higher CGHS authorities to open additional dispensaries in the Chandigarh region ( Mohali, Panchkula and one more dispensary in Chandigarh) on the similar lines as has been done in Delhi, where additional CGHS dispensaries have been opened recently and not to deny proper healthcare to the CGHS beneficiaries of Chandigarh.

Shri P S Bedi and Shri S R Bhardwaj, referred to the complaint of Shri, Rishi Ram Sharma (CGHS Card P-2181) in respect of his pending MRCs and additional charges for knee replacement surgery by Silver Oaks Hospital, for providing higher ward facilities than his entitlement, and Knee Replacement procedure carried out on his wife. CMO clarified that every CGHS beneficiary knows that CGHS beneficiaries are entitled to cashless treatment as per Package Rates in empanelled hospitals. The empanelled hospital can, however, charge extra amount for providing better product or ward accommodation higher than the entitlement of the beneficiary, for which extra charges have to be borne by the beneficiary. Regarding his pending claims of Rs 9255/- and Rs 254/-, he may take up case with the A D CGHS with full and detailed justification. His application addressed to a member of the Advisory committee does not give any details of these pending claims.

Sh G S Bhogal pointed out that the meeting at the level of A D CGHS, Chandigarh, which is to be held after every two months, is due, as last meeting was held in June,2012. He requested the CMO to take up case with the AD CGHS to convene the meeting at an early date, to sort out many points concerning the CGHS beneficiaries.

Shri D D Sharma, representative of serving employees expressed his satisfaction at the clarification regarding referrals to empanelled private hospitals in respect of serving employees recorded in the Minutes of Advisory committee held in July,2012.Staff Punctuality & Behavior:The conduct and behavior of the staff of the Wellness Center has been very good. They are courteous and helpful to the senior/aged CGHS beneficiaries. Surinder Kumar, of the CGHS staff, who was nominated as the best and dedicated worker for the quarter ending 30 June, 2012 was presented the Certificate of Merit in the presence of members of Advisory committee and the Wellness Center staff.Cleanliness & Maintenance of Wellness Centre:The Wellness Centre was found to be clean and well maintained. Grievance Redressal:The complaint box was opened and no letter was found.

****** Railway Board letter No 2007/H/28/1/RELHS/Smart card dated 18-07-2012Sub: Cashless Service for RELHS card holders to take treatment in recognized private hospitals in emergency

In an endeavor to alleviate the problems faced by senior citizens in getting treatment in emergency, a cashless service for RELHS card holders to take treatment in recognized private hospitals of National capital Region was introduced by Northern Railways vide Boards letter o feven no dated 29-02-2008 as a Pilot Project. The scheme was subsequently extended by one year each on two occasions


Sept. - Oct. 2012

4

i.e up to 20-08-2011 vide Board letter of even no dated 13-11-2009 and 27-01-2011.The issue of extension of the scheme or otherwise was under consideration in the Ministry of

Railways for some time. The competent authority in the Ministry Of Railways after careful consideration in the matter, has decided to extend the facility till further orders for RELHS beneficiaries to take care of their healthcare needs, in an acute emergency. This scheme will now be available in all Metros, State capitals and Zonal HQs of the Indian Railways. Detailed guidelines on the subject are attached.

This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

CASHLESS SERVICES FOR RELHS CARD HOLDERS TO TAKE TREATMENT IN RECOGNISED PRIVATE HOSPITALS IN EMERGENCY Terms & Conditions of the Scheme

1 The scheme is to be implemented in all the Metros, State Capitals and Zonal HQs.2 Zonal Railways shall enter into a 'MOU' with already empanelled hospitals under their jurisdiction for the scheme. Further, if there are not enough recognized multi-specialty hospitals, Zonal Railways shall recognize CGHS empanelled hospitals approved rates and/ or other hospitals as per extant policy and enter into an 'MOU' for the Smart card scheme.3 Smart card should provide necessary demographic data and other relevant information on a standardized format.4 Zonal Railways shall award the job of issuing the Smart Cardsto a suitable service provider on most competent rates, through open bidding.5 It shall be the responsibility of the hospital to inform the authorized medical attendant regarding emergency within 24 hours. In case an admission is found to be of non-emergency nature, the treating hospital shall refer the patient to authorized medical attendant in next 24 hours.6 The scheme shall be implemented with the existing man power of the Zonal Railways.7 Issuance of Smart card is made mandatory to RELHS beneficiaries residing in the regions mentioned in (1) above and cost of the card as decided upon may also be included in the contribution towards joining RELHS at the time of retirement.8 The following conditions shall qualify as emergency:

- Acute cardiac condition / syndromes.

- Vascular castastrophies, Cerbo-vascular accidents.

- Acute respiratory emergencies.

- Acute abdomen including acute obstetrical gynecological emergencies.

- Life threatening injuries

- Acute poisoning and snake bite.

- Acute endocrine emergencies.

- Heart stroke and cold injuries of a life threatening nature.

- Acute renal failure.

- Severe infections leading to the threatening situations.

- Any other condition in which delay could result in loss of life or limb. ******

PERFORMANCE OF CGHS & Infrastructure in Government Hospitals

Government has undertaken several steps to improve the functioning of CGHS - Minister replied in Lok

Sabha

Health & Family Welfare Minister Shri.Ghulam Nabi Azad replied in Lok Sabha on 17.8.2012 to the question of 'what action taken by the Government, whether complaints have been received about the dissatisfaction of a large number of Central Government Employees with the services provided by the

Posted: 26 Aug 2012 10:29 AM PDT


Sept. - Oct. 2012

5

Government under the Central Government Health Scheme'.PERFORMANCE OF CGHS While CGHS endeavors to provide best possible health care facilities to the large number of beneficiaries consulting / visiting CGHS Wellness Centres (approx. 1.2 Crore during the last one year), some complaints are received about unsatisfactory services. The dissatisfaction relates to shortage of doctors and other manpower resulting in waiting period before consulting doctors, issue of medicines, delay in settlement of medical claims of pensioners, issue of medicines of specific brand, reimbursement at CGHS rates for the treatment taken from unrecognized hospitals, overcharging by empanelled hospitals, opening of new dispensaries, etc. Government has been receiving increased budgetary support over the last few years to take care of CGHS beneficiaries.

Government has undertaken several steps to improve the functioning of CGHS. These

include:

1 Computerization to improve better inventory management and availability of medicines at CGHS

Wellness Centres. Based on computer data, 272 commonly indented medicines are procured from

manufacturers at discounted rates and make them available at Wellness Centres.

2 Portability of CGHS cards at any dispensary all over the country.

3 Issue of medicines for three months in cases of chronic illnesses.

4 Appointment of Medical officers on contract basis as an interim measure to tide over shortage of

doctors.

5 Receipt of medical claims of pensioners at Dispensary level and proper verification of documents by

CMO i/c to ensure that all required documents are submitted.

6 Enhancement of financial powers of Addl. Directors upto Rs.5 Lakhs for speedy settlement of medical

claims of pensioners.

7 Regular meetings undertaken by Addl. Directors with CMOs i/c to ensure smooth functioning of

Wellness Centres for better delivery of services.

8 Reimbursement from two sources – i.e., from CGHS as well as medical insurance in respect of

beneficiaries holding mediclaim policies.

9 Formation of Standing Technical Committees for examination of requests for full reimbursement.

10 Settlement of hospital bills of empanelled hospitals and diagnostic centres through UTI-ITSL for early

settlement of claims to ensure that the empanelled hospitals provide credit facility to pensioners , etc.,

11 Pensioner CGHS beneficiaries residing in non-CGHS areas are permitted to avail IPD and follow up

treatment from CS (MA)/ ECHS empanelled hospitals with prior permission from CGHS.

Infrastructure in Government Hospitals (24-08-2012)

The National Health Policy has been formulated in 2002 to achieve an acceptable standard of good

health amongst the general population of the country. In pursuance with the policy guidelines, the

Government launched National Rural Health Mission in 2005 with a view to provide accessible,

affordable, accountable and quality health care facilities in rural areas with focus on poor and vulnerable

sections of the society.

Health is state subject, it the responsibility of the State Governments to create adequate health

infrastructure in the States to meet the growing number of the patients. However, the Central

Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments by providing assistance through various

programmes such as NRHM etc. In addition, was

approved. It aims at correcting the imbalances in availability of affordable/reliable tertiary level

healthcare in the country in general and augmenting facilities for quality medical education in the under-

PradhanMantriSwasthyaSurakshaYojana (PMSSY)


Sept. - Oct. 2012

6

served States.

As far as three Central Government Hospitals in Delhi, viz. Safdarjung Hospital, Dr. RML

Hospital and LHMC and associated Hospitals are concerned, it is a fact that there is an increase of

patients. In order to meet the need of increasing load of patients in these hospitals, up-gradation of

Hospital infrastructure and services is done on a continuous basis in their available resources.

-This information was given in written reply by the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Shri

Ghulam NabiAzad in Lok Sabha ( 24-08-2012).

Up gradation of Facilities in Railway Hospitals (23-08-2012) There are sufficient medical facilities and

doctors available in the hospitals of Indian Railways. A network of 125 well equipped hospitals and 586

health units provide necessary health care to Railway beneficiaries.

There are 2504 sanctioned posts of doctors in Indian Railways. As on date there are 2240

doctors on roll. Vacancies of doctors in Railways are filled up by posting Union Public Service

Commission selected doctors. Vacancies are also being filled up by appointing Contract Medical

Pract i t ioners including special ists, ensuring continuous avai labi l i ty of doctors.

Upgrading of the facilities in the hospitals is an ongoing process and works and equipments are

sanctioned to improve the existing infrastructure and add new facilities based on the needs of the

Railway beneficiaries.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Railways Shri K. H. Muniyappa in written

reply to a question in Lok Sabha (23-08-2012)

Medical Facilities to Non-Pensioners Commissioned officers.

However, there is a proposal to make Short Service Commission more attractive which has been

initiated in which the provision for grant of ECHS facilities in a restricted manner to SSC officers.

Currently the policy does not cover the non-pensioners such as Emergency Commissioned Officers,

Short Service Commissioned Officers .

This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Dr MM Pallam Raju in a written reply to

Shrimati Paramjit Kaur Gulshan in Lok Sabha .

*****

SMS facility for Indented Medicines to CGHS Beneficiaries 5

SMS facility has been started since 6th July 2012. Currently the service is provided by NIC, by NIC

free to CGHS. The beneficiaries are given the printout of prescription by doctors, which carries theee

the details whether the medicine is available in the Wellness Centre or is indented. SMS facility has

been started

(i) As a deterrent against misuse of CGHS card by unauthorized persons.

(ii) As a good- will gesture that CGHS takes care of the beneficiaries.

Currently the service is provided by NIC, free to CGHS.

******

Basic Amenities in Hospitals and Dispensaries

In so far as three Central Government Hospitals viz. Safdarjung Hospital, Drr. RML Hospital and LHMC & Smt. S.K. Hospital are concerned, there is no lack off basic amenities in these hospitals. However, they cater to patients coming not onlyoy from Delhi and its surrounding areas, but also from far flung States


July - Aug. 2012

7

leading to huge increase in footfalls in these Hospitals against the available infrastructure. Hence, at times, there is some deficiencies in cleanliness and sanitation in some of the busy areas of these hospitals. Adequate sanitation and basic amenities are also provided in the CGHS dispensaries.

Regular rounds are made by Sanitary Supervisors/House-Keeping Manager and Officer In-charge (Sanitation ) to ensure cleanliness in the Hospitals. Besides, weekly rounds are taken by the Medical Superintendents. In addition to this, teams from Directorate General of Health Services visit these hospitals from time to time to ensure smooth working of these hospitals including cleanliness and sanitation.

Cleanliness and sanitation is maintained in these hospitals by following strict cleanliness schedule and with the help of regular as well as outsourced employees. Mechanized cleaning is also undertaken in certain vital areas. Pest Control work is regularly done. Training of housekeeping staff is also done on regular basis. Sanitation services are outsourced in CGHS dispensaries where no safai karmcharis are available.

The above was information given by the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi

Azad in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on 07 Sept, 2012.

******

CCCGPA letter No CCCGPA-CHD/Memo/DGHS/CGHS-2012-5 dated 02July,2012,addressed to

DGHS, Ministry of H & FW, New Delhi

Subject: Appeal for additional CGHS Dispensary / Wellness Center at Chandigarh, Panchkula and

Mohali

1. We draw your kind attention to the serious difficulties being experienced by more than 23000 CGHS

beneficiaries – settled in and around Chandigarh who are solely dependent on just one CGHS

Dispensary/ (Wellness Center) – having only four doctors – attending to over 320 patients daily, who

have to travel about 10 to 15 Kilometers from the far ends of the tri-city of Chandigarh, Panchkula and

Mohali.

2. a) As per information provided by your office (vide letter No. RTI-12034/78/2012 – CGHS-III dated 18-

6-2012 to Secretary, CCCGPA): –

a) “As per norms 2000 cards (within 3 Km area) are required to open a new CGHS dispensary in a

existing city and 6000 cards in a new city subject to availability of recourses and approval of competent

authority.”

b) “As per SIU norms doctors are supposed to examine about 75 patients per day.”

3. Additional Director CGHS Chandigarh (Vide his letter No. AD/CGHS/CHD/RTI/2012/4150-51 Dated

27-6-2012), has informed as under:

“a) On an average, daily attendance of the patients, is more than 320 under CGHS Wellness Centre No.

1, Sector 45, Chandigarh.

b) There are four GDMOs in the CGHS Wellness Center No. 1 Sector 45, Chandigarh.

c) There are 8151 (both Pensioners / Serving employees) card holders registered under CGHS

Chandigarh- with 23023 beneficiaries as on May, 2012.”

4. In view of the facts stated above, it is requested that 3(THREE) additional Dispensaries be provided in

the Tri-city at Chandigarh. Panchkula and Mohali - keeping in view the present strength of the CGHS

beneficiaries and the hardship faced by them. A large number of pensioners residing in the Tricity - are

unable to avail of the CGHS facilities due to long distance they have to travel for reaching the existing

CGHS Dispensary located in Sector 45, Chandigarh

*****


July - Aug. 2012

8

Reimburse Railway staff for private treatment( TN Bench of CAT) A central government servant is entitled for reimbursement even if he takes treatment in a private hospital under emergent situation, the TN Bench of the Central Administrative Tribunal has held.M Mohamed Salia, Deputy Chief Engineer, Southern Railway, while returning home, suffered a heart attack on November 20, 2008. Due to the urgency of the matter, his wife admitted him in the nearest private hospital Frontier Lifeline, as the Railway Hospital was 10 km away from her residence. After a by-pass surgery and necessary treatment, he was discharged on December 12, 2008. He paid `3.10 lakh towards hospital bills.When he applied for reimbursement of ̀ 2 lakh to which he was entitled, the railway authorities rejected his claim on the ground that treatment in a non-recognised private hospital without referral by the railway authorised medical officer was not admissible. Hence, the present application rejecting the contentions, CAT judicial member G Santhappa said that in this case, the applicant had produced the emergency certificate and that had not been considered by the railways. The Personnel Branches Circular (PBC) dated May 4, 1994 listed under what circumstances reimbursement of medical expenses could be made. It included that if a patient falls ill at a place where there was no government or railway hospital and that if transporting the patient to the nearest government hospital would result in loss of life, the servant could be admitted in a private hospital. The rejection was against the law laid down by the SC, the tribunal said, set aside the order and directed the railways to sanction the amount in a month.

*****On 24th September, 2012 The Assoc. of Retd Officers of the IAAD, led by its President shri K S Ramotra arranged a meeting with Shri Pawan Kumar Bansal. Hon'ble Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Water Resources, Govt. of India, at his residence at Chandigarh. Shri M L Panghotra, Chairman of CCCGPA also accompanied the delegation to represent CCCGPA.Hon'ble Minister gave a patient hearing to the problems being faced by the CGHS beneficiaries in general and necessity of additional dispensaries at Panchkula and Mohali in particular. A written memorandum highlighting the main problems faced by the pensioners was also given to the Hon'ble Minister. Hon'ble Minister informed the delegation that he is already aware of the problems and has also take up the matter with concerned Ministry which has shown its inability in opening of new dispensaries due to certain constraints. He further stated that he has received a reply to his communication on the subject from the Ministry, a copy of which will be given to the Assoc. He however stressed that he will continue pursuing the case till finality although presently his efforts in this regard have not produced the desired results.

Leave Rules – Maternity Leave FR & SR Part IIIPregnancy Eligibility : A female Government servant (including an apprentice) with less than two surviving children may be granted maternity leave – Rule 43 (1)Duration : 180 days from the date of its commencement – Rule 43 (1). Leave Salary : During such period, she shall be paid leave salary equal to the pay drawn immediately before proceeding on leave. – Rule 43 (2)Miscarriage / abortion : Maternity leave not exceeding 45 days may also be granted to a female Government servant (irrespective of the number of surviving children) during the entire service of that female Government in case of miscarriage including abortion on production of medical certificate as laid down in Rule 19. `Provided that the maternity leave granted and availed of before the commencement of the CCS(Leave) Amendment Rules, 1995, shall not be taken into account for the purpose of this sub-rule. – Rule 43 (3)Maternity leave shall not be debited against the leave account – Rule 43 (5)Maternity leave may be combined with leave of any other kind. – Rule 43 (4) (a)Leave of the kind due and admissible (including commuted leave for a period not exceeding 60 days and leave not due) that can be granted in continuation with Maternity Leave provided in Rule 43(4)(b) shall be increased to 2 years. Service which counts for increments. – F.R. 26 (b)In the case of a person to whom Employees' State Insurance Act, 1948 (34 of 1948), applies, the amount of leave salary payable under this rule shall be reduced by the amount of benefit payable under the said Act for the corresponding period. – Note below Rule 43(2)Admissible for induced abortionNot admissible for 'threatened abortion'

Leave Rules – Paternity leave -FR & SR Part III Eligibility - A male Government servant (including an apprentice) with less than two surviving children, may be granted Paternity Leave – Rule 43-ADuration : 15 days, during the confinement of his wife for childbirth, i.e., up to 15 days before, or up to six months from the date of delivery of the child. –Rule 43-ALeave Salary : During such period of 15 days, he shall be paid leave salary equal to the pay drawn immediately before proceeding on leaveThe paternity Leave may be combined with leave of any other kind. The paternity leave shall not be debited against the leave account.If Paternity Leave is not availed of within the period,, it should be treated as lapsed.- Rule 43-AThe Paternity Leave shall not normally be refused under any circumstances.

DOPT OM dated 11-9-2008

DOPT OM dated 11-9-2008


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SERVICE / PENSIONARY & ALLIED MATTERS

Ministry of P P G & P (Dept of P&PW) No F. No 42 / 45/2012-P&PW (G) dated 09 Aug, 2012, addressed to all SCOVA members ( 15 Associations, including President/General secretary, P&T Pensioners' Welfare Association, House No. 686, Sector 40-A, Chandigarh - 160036,Punjab.)

stSub: 21 meeting of the Standing Committee of Voluntary agencies (SCOVA) to be held on 27 September, 2012 in New Delhi

st21 meeting of Standing Committee of Voluntary agencies (SCOVA) of Dept of Pensions & Pensioners welfare will be held on Thursday, 27 September,2012 at 11.00 a.m. at Civil services Officers Institute (CSOI), Rendezvous, ground floor, F-116, multi storeys apartments, kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi-110001. Meeting will be chaired by Minister of State in Ministry of P P G & P.2 All pensioners Associations are requested to kindly provide the following requisite information through FAX as well as E mail:(a) Please suggest items/ issues, if any, for inclusion in the agenda to be discussed in the proposed meeting. Your response in this regard may please be sent to this Dept , so as to reach the undersigned latest by 16 August,2012 to enable us to finalize the Agenda Items.(b) Because of consideration of space, only one representative of your organization may attend the above said meeting. Confirmation of the participation and the name of the participant may kindly be intimated in advance to the undersigned by FAX / E mail.3 Outstation members will be paid TA / DA and local members will be paid conveyance charges in accordance with rules / instructions.4 The Dept looks forward to your participation in the meeting. Sd/- (Tripta Ghosh), Director (PP)

Telefax: 246224802/24644637 E mail: / [email protected]

******Ministry of P P G & P ( Dept of P & PW) No 42/50/2010-P&PW(G) dated 24 July,2012Sub: Inclusion of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as official member in Standing Committee of Voluntary Agencies (SCOVA) vide DoP&PW Resolution No 42/50/2010-P&PW (G) dated 24 June, 2011

In continuation of DoP&PW resolution N0 40/50/2010-P&PW(G) dated 24 June,2011 pertaining to re-constitution of SCOVA this department has decided to include Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as one of the official member in the SCOVA with immediate effect.2 This issues with the approval of MOS (PP). ******PROPOSED AGENDA FOR 21st SCOVA MEETING ON 27 SEPT, 2012(Submitted by P &T /BSNL Pensioners Welfare Association, Chandigarh)

1. Opening of three more CGHS dispensaries, one at Mohali,second at Panchkula and one more in Chandigarh.

2. Procurement of land for CGHS dispensary offered by UT Chandigarh to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GoI.

th3. Progress of merger of P&T dispensaries with CGHS dispensaries.In the 20 meeting of SCOVA it was stated that the merger of P&T dispensaries with CGHS are in the final stage, but no action has been taken so far

4. Empanelment of more hospitals and diagnostic centers at Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula. A few more hospitals are required to be empanelled and more diagnostic centres should be empanelled because beneficiary pensioners have to trvel from distant places in Mohali and Panchkula.

th th5. Restoration of CGHS facilities to P&T BSNL pensioners. In the 19 & 20 SCOVA meetings it was intimated that facility would be restored when P&T dispensaries are merged with the CGHS, but action in this case is still awaited.

6. Anomaly in fixation of pension of absorbee BSNL pensioners who retired between 1/10/2000 and 31/07/2001 , which occurred because some months pay was in DOT Pay scale and some in BSNL pay Scale and the average was less compared to the pensioners who retired after

[email protected]


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th31/07/2001. This anomaly can be removed only by applying 6 CPC order of last drawn pay or DoP&PW order No 45/86/97-P&PW(A) dated 18/10/1999.

7. Merger of 78.2% IDA with Basic Pension benefit to absorbed BSNL pensioners w e f 1/1/2007.Revision of pension of absorbed BSNL pensioners was done with 68.8% IDA merger w.e.f 1/1/2007, but in the light of DPE order No 2(70)-DPE(WC)-GL-VIII/9 dated 2/4/2009, the merger should 78.2%.

8. While revising the pension of absorbed BSNL pensioners / family pensioners by the order of DOT No 40-17/2008-pensions (T) Voll-III dated 5/3/2011, a clause in Para 5 stated that pension liability of the govt for the above mentioned pensioners including pre-2000 pensioners would be limited to 60% of the receipt from the BSNL.This is not in the interest of the pensioners. This clause needs modification or abolition.

th th9. Provision of Rent free telephone to Postal pensioners. In the 19 and 20 SCOVA meeting, it was stated that the provision of rent free telephone to postal rtirees was under active consideration of DOT, but so far no action in this case has been taken.

10. CSD canteen facility to the Defence Civilian pensioners. In the light of Army Order 2 of 2006 of Defence Services civilian employees (Para 12 a of AO) and pensioners (Para 4b of AO) are entitled for CSD facility.Defence civilian employees are issued smart cards while pensioners are denied the same. Sympathetic consideration is awaited. ******

thShri Rajpal Sharma, Secretary General, CCCGPA, attended the SCOVA meeting on 27 Sept, 2012 at New Delhi, in his capacity as President of P&T Pensioners Welfare Association, Chandigarh. He has submitted brief details of the meeting as under. (Official report of the proceedings will be issued by DoP&PW, in due course of time)SCOVA MEETING BRIEF

st th21 meeting of SCOVA was held on 27 September 2012 in New Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Sh. V. Narayanaswamy Hon'ble MoS in the Ministry of Personnel Public grievances and Pensions. He welcomed the members and assured them whole hearted help in redressing the grievances of the Pensioners expeditiously. Hon'ble Minister was aided by Sh. Sanjay Kothari, Deputy Secretary and Smt. Tripti P. Ghosh Director (P.P.). Following important items of Agenda were discussed and decisions taken thereof:-(1) Opening of CGHS Dispensary at Panchkula was decided after the case for the same was presented by Sh. Raj Pal Sharma, President P&T and BSNL Association.(2) Merger of all P&T dispensaries into existing CGHS dispensaries was ordered to be completed before April 2013 as the Hon'ble Minister felt that the matter has been pending completion since long.(3) Issue of revised PPOs was discussed. The progress made in this regard was appreciated. However certain departments were observed having abnormal number of cases pending. The concerned departments were asked to complete the same before April 2013.(4) RELHS :- The instruction for medical facilities to family pensioners other than spouse and kids of divorced widowed daughters have been issued. (5) Inclusion of representative of identified Associations of SCOVA members in Railway Hospital grievance Committee have been recommended. (6) Provision of Passes to family Pensioners other than the widow was not considered feasible. (7) Regarding Anomaly in the fixation of Pension to DOT employees absorbed in BSNL who retired between 01-10-2000 and 31-07-2001. This proposal regarding rectification of anomaly in pension of BSNL employees retired within 10 months of their absorption has not been agreed to. (8) Grant of concessional telephone facilities to retired postal employees is in advance stage of consideration. (9) Some fitment benefit to Pre-2006 pensioners as recommended and implemented in respect of serving employees by the VI CPC. Parity between past and future pensioners. Stepping up of the Pensioner and Family Pension to 50% and 30% respectively. Extension of new benefits granted to the past pensioners (Para 6.4 to 6.7 of ATR). This issue was raised and the response from DOP&T was that this was discussed in the meeting held on 17-07-2012 and the Chairman stated that since the matter is sub-judice, any further action on this issue will be dependent on the directions of the Court of Law. There seems to be no point in keeping this item in the National Anomaly Committee. This was agreed to. However Director PP informed that there is a likelihood of detailed instructions in this regard from the Department of Expenditure GOI very soon.

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MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (Railway Board)- S. No. PC VI/296No. PC-VI/2010/1/6/2 RBE No. 83/2012New Delhi, dated 18.07.2012 addressed to The GMs/CAOs(R), Sub: Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008 – Clarification regarding proviso under Rule 10.Ref: Railway Board's Notification GSR 643(E) dated 04.9.2008 and letter No. PC-VI/2008/1/RS RP/1 dated 11.02.2009 and No. PC-VI/2010/1/RS RP/3 dated 23.04.2010.

References have been received from some of the Railways seeking clarification regarding computation of the period of one year for which pay was drawn at the maximum of the pre-revised scale towards admissibility of additional increment under proviso to Rule 10 of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008.

2. The matter has been examined and it is clarified that the increment in question will be admissible to all those employees who were stagnating at the maximum of their pay scale for more than one year as on 01.01.2006 including those who were in receipt of stagnation increment(s). It is also clarified that the one year period is to be reckoned w.e.f. the date of drawal of pay at the maximum of scale and not from the date of drawal of stagnation increment.

3. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

(HARI KRISHAN) Director, Pay Commission – II Railway Board.

******

thMinistry of Finance Department of Expenditure O M No. 2(9)/2012-E.II(B) dated 27 Aug,201Subject:- Clarification on the admissibility of House Rent Allowance (HRA) during the Child Care Leave (CCL) – Reg.The undersigned is directed to refer to Para 6 (a)(i) of this Ministry's O.M. No.2(37)-E.II(B)/64 dated 27.11.1965, as amended from time to time, on regulation of House Rent Allowance during Leave which stipulates that a Government servant is entitled to draw HRA…… during total leave of all kinds not exceeding 180 days and the first 180 days of the leave if the actual duration of leave exceeds that period; but does not include terminal leave, ……. It has also been stipulated, thereunder, that drawal of the allowance (HRA) during the period of leave in excess of first 180 day availed of on grounds other than medical grounds mentioned in sub-para (ii), shall be subject to furnishing of the certificate prescribed in Para 8(d) of the G.M. ibid.2. This Ministry has been receiving representations from the female employees that certain Central Government Ministries/Department/Establishments are not allowing HRA during the Child Care Leave (CCL), especially when taken in continuation of Maternity Leave of 180 days. The reason for their reluctance may be the fact that CCL has been first introduced on the recommendations of the 6th Central Pay Commission, though the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), vide their O.M. No.13018/1/2010-Estt.(Leave) dated 07.09.2010, inter-alia, reiterated that the leave (CCL) is to be treated like Earned Leave and sanctioned as such.3. It is, therefore, clarified that the 'total leave of all kinds' as referred to in Para 6(a) of this Ministry's G.M. dated 27.11.65 ibid, will include Child Care Leave for regulating grant of HRA during leave, subject to fulfiment of all other conditions stipulated thereunder, from time to time. It is also clarified that drawal of HRA during leave (including CCL) in excess of first 180 days, if otherwise admissible, shall be subject to furnishing of the certificate prescribed in Para 8(d).4. These orders take effect from 01.09.2008. HRA during CCL, if not paid to women employees who are entitled to it as per this clarification, may be reconsidered, if so requested by the concerned employee. (Anil Sharma) Under Secretary to the Government of India ******Ministry of P, P G & P (Dept of P &T) OM No 142/15/2010-AVD-I dated 31 July,2012Subject : Grant of Honorarium to Inquiry Officers (IO)/Presenting Officers (PO) - Consolidated instructions regarding. The undersigned is directed to say that the Department of Personnel and Training have issued


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instructions vide NO 1344/99-AVD-I dated 29th June 2001 and 7th April 2003 on the subject of honorarium to the Inquiry Officers and Presenting Officers covering the aspects of rates of honorarium, appointment of retired officers as Inquiry Officer, terms and conditions for payment of honorarium etc from time to time. The rates of honorarium payable to IO/PO were last revised vide this Department's OM no 142/20/2008-AVD-I dated 27th July 2009. [copy attached]. 2. A Committee of Experts set up to review the procedure of Disciplinary Negilance inquiries and to recommend measures for their expeditious disposal under the chairmanship of P.C Hota, former Chairman of UPSC in May 2010 had made a series of recommendations in July 2010 including the rates of honorarium. The detailed recommendation of the expert committee is available on the website of this Department. It can be accessed through the Link. http://persmin.nic.in/DOPT/Publication/CommitteeReport/HotaCommitteeRevort/HotaCommitteeReport.pdf . The Committee had made specific recommendations as regards the rates of honorarium to IO/PO. The Recommendations of the Committee on the proposed increases in Honorarium relating to IO/PO are contained in paras 37, 42-44 of the report of the Committee. 3. The recommendations of the Expert Committee on the aspect of revision of rates of honorarium along with some other related measures were examined in the Department and was placed before the Group of Ministers on Corruption, set up for examining measures, including legislative and administrative, to tackle corruption and improve transparency. The Group of Ministers while considering the Terms of Reference also considered the recommendations of the HOTA Committee and recommended that the remuneration of the IOs and POs may be fixed, keeping in mind the recommendations of the HOTA Committee. These recommendations of the GOM have been accepted by the Government. 4. It has therefore been decided to revise the existing rates of honorarium payable to IO/PO in line with the recommendations of the Expert Committee. The revised rates of Honorarium and other allowances payable to IO both serving and retired officers and PO(serving) and the terms and conditions governing the same is indicated in Annexure -1 to this OM. The rates of Honorarium stated therein are ceilings and the concerned ministry/department where the misconduct was committed may decide the exact quantum of honorarium to be paid keeping in mind the volume of work involved in specific cases and the terms and Conditions indicated in the Annexure -1. 5. The revised structure of rates of honorarium and allowances as indicated in Annexure-I are intended to be made applicable to Departmental Proceedings including inquiry proceedings undertaken by the committee on Sexual Harassment, by Ministries /Department in respect of officials /officers serving under different cadres of services under their administrative control. However, in case a cadre of a service or organisations such as autonomous bodies have a separate set of rules and instructions for regulating honorarium to IO/PO in existence they may choose to continue with their own set of instructions. Fully or partially funded autonomous bodies may retain their own provisions so long as they are not more beneficial than what has been proposed in this OM. 6. This orders will take effect from the date of issue of this OM and will also apply to all inquiries in progress. 7. The services of serving officers may be used as IO and PO to the extent possible in the conduct of departmental inquiries. However, Central Vigilance Commission has been requested to create and maintain a panel of retired officers/officials willing to serve as IO for conducting departmental inquiries and for this purpose also design a procedure for inviting applications from the retired Government Servants to be followed by the Ministries and Departments. Till such time such a panel of retired officers become available from CVC, the concerned ministries /departments may, where it is not possible to use the services of a serving officer as Inquiry Officer for conducting departmental inquiries, use the services of officers who have retired from Ministries/Departments, for conducting such departmental inquiries. 8. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure vide their UO no.14(4)/2009-E-II(B) dated 26.3.2012 and 5.6.2012. ******Brief details of Meeting of 'Pensioners Welfare Committee of AISCCON' held on Sunday, the 29th July, 2012 Meeting of 'Pensioners Welfare Committee of AISCCON' was held on Sunday, the 29th July, at Jyeshtha Nagarik Bhawan, Nerul (West), Navi Mumbai 400 706.


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R.N.Mittal President AISCCON & S.C.Maheshwari Secy. Rly BPS & Chair Person, Pensioners' Welfare Committee of AISCCON jointly chaired the meeting. After detailed deliberations as per predefined Agenda, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted for further processing. 1] Grant Minimum universal Pension of Rs 2000/- or 50% of minimum wage (which ever is more) per month per person, to all 60+ senior citizens in both unorganized & organized sectors; with provision of automatic revision corresponding to minimum wage & inflation. 2. Remove disparity in revision of pension within the homogeneous group of pre 2006.: A common multiplication factor need to be adopted for the revision of pension of all pre 2006 retirees so that all pensioner in this group irrespective pre retirement status, get equal enhancement i.e. if basic pension of pensioners' of one pre retirement scale/pay band is getting enhanced by three time then all other pensioners/family pensioners should be similarly benefited to maintain equality.. 3] Restoraion of commuted portion of Pension of all central/ State/PSU pensioners in 12 years as was recommended by 5th CPC instead of present 15years; 4] Additional old age pension to all superannuated persons of Central/state govt. /PSU. Pensioners' should start from the age of 65yrs @ 5% of the basic pension with provision of enhancement by 5% every 5yrs; 5] While endorsing the demand of One rank one pension for Defence Pensioners this committee demands that defence civilian pensioners' be treated at par with the retirees from uniformed sector; 6] Minimum Pension/ex-gratia; of EPS95 beneficiaries, beneficiaries of other social security schemes raised to Rs 2000/- Per month with provision of enhancement corresponding to inflation; 7] All superannuated persons/family pensioners/ex-gratia recipients w/o any exception of PSU/KVS etc be provided healthcare cover; 8. Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) without any distance restriction, in lieu of normal OPD facility be raised from present Rs 300/ to Rs1200/ per month in line with Ministry of Labour &Employment. *******

BIO-Metric ID for Industrial Workers by ESIC The Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) issues two bio-metric Pehchan Cards under the IT Project 'Panchdeep' to the Insured Persons covered under the ESI Scheme. One card is for use of the Insured Person and another one for use by his family. The card has a unique ten-digit Insurance Number, name, date of birth, address and photograph of Insured Person and his family. The reverse side of the card contains a magnetic strip and ESI Corporation's Hologram. The Insurance Number of the Insured Person is embedded in the magnetic strip. The card contains only the Insured Person's Number which is embedded in the magnetic strip. The remaining details are stored in the central database servers installed at the Data Centre in Rohini, Delhi and are updated from time to time. The Bio-metric card is used to access the central database containing all the data like family details, medical history of Insured Person and his family. This information was given by Minister of Labour and Employment Shri Mallikarjun Kharge in reply to a written question in the Rajya Sabha ( 8 Aug,2012). ******WRIT PETITION BY BSF OFFICERS FOR SEEKING NONFUNCTIONAL (NFU) UP GRADATION

BSF officers filed a WP on Non-functional Financial Up gradation in the Hon,ble High Court of Delhi on 08th August, 2012 and its first hearing took place on 14th August, 2012. In the first hearing, Hon'ble Judges of Double Bench had given notice / directions to the Respondent No. 1( MHA) and Respondent No.2 ( DOP& T) to put up their reply within six weeks and further four weeks have been given to the petitioners to prepare the counter reply. Accordingly, next date of hearing has been fixed on 6th Nov, 2012.2. In the WP it has been emphasized that the DG BSF had recommended to the Govt that BSF Officers should be given the NFU as there is lot of stagnation in the Force.3. The support of the CRPF and ITBP officers has also been mustered. Both these Forces have also provided their details to file their WPs on the same analogy shortly. Subsequently, their WPs will also be clubbed with BSF case.


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(Newspaper Report is appended below:) New Delhi, Aug 21: Over 100 BSF officers have petitioned the Delhi High Court against officials in the Union Home Ministry and IPS officers, who frame policies for them, alleging that they were subjected to 'acute stagnation' and deprivation of 'financial benefits'.A bench comprising Justices Pradeep Nandrajog and Manmohan Singh had issued two separate notices to the Union Home Ministry and the BSF headquarters on Aug 14 seeking a response to the petition. Officers in the rank of Deputy Inspector Generals, Commandants, Deputy Commandants and Second-in-Command were among those who had submitted the petition.It was a rare instance when officers of an armed force with the responsibility for the country's internal security approached the court to address their problem. They claimed that non-implementation of policy measures were affecting their morale and efficiency.The BSF officials were angry over the fact that they were not given the non-functional financial benefits, despite a 2009 Department of Personnel andTraining (DoPT) order.The upgrading, according to the BSF officials, would ensure pay parity and social recognition. About 66 BSF officials signed the first petition that had been filed in the Delhi High Court while more sent similar representations later, said the counsel for these officials.The aggrieved officials said the BSF's group 'A' officer, despite their selfless service, were being deprived of financial benefits and privileges which other group 'A' officers were enjoying and hence had no other option but to approach the court. They said such 'discrimination' was affecting the officer's morale and efficiency standards.The BSF, with 2.4 lakh personnel, is the country's second-largest paramilitary outfit after the CRPF. It had made several representations to the Home Ministry but the latter was yet to take a final call on the matter. (Govt of India vide PPG&P(DoPT) OM No AB-14017/64/2008-Estt(RR) dated 24 April,2009 had extended the Non functional Up gradation (NFU) to officers of organized Group 'A' services in PB-3 & PB-4 on the basis that ' whenever an IAS officer of a State of joint cadre is posted at the Center to a particular grade carrying a specific grade pay in PB-3 or PB-4 , the officers belonging to batches of Organised Group 'A'services that are senior by two years or more and have not so far been promoted to that particular grade, would be granted same grade on Non-Functional basis from the date of posting of IAS officer in that particular grade in the center)

*******

(A delegation of Retired Officers of CPOs had met the Hon'ble MoS (Home) on 18 Sept, 2012, and submitted the following missive to him.)DENIAL OF NON-FUNCTIONAL FINANCIAL UPGRADATION (NFU) TO THE OFFICERS OF THE CAPFs

(For the kind attention of Hon. MoS (Home), Govt. of India)

1. The 6th Central Pay Commission had recommended that the Govt should consider batch wise paritywhile empanelling and/or posting at Centre between respective batches of IAS and other Organised Group 'A' (Org Gp 'A') services with the gap being restricted to two years. This implied that whenever an IA S officer of a particular batch is posted in the Centre to a particular grade, carrying a specific Grade Pay in Pay in Band PB- 3 or PB- 4, grant of higher pay scale on non-functional basis to the officers belonging to the batches of Org Gp 'A' services, who are senior by two years or more, should be given by the Govt.2. Govt. accepted this recommendation and issued instructions on 24 Apr 2009 on grant of NFU to the officers of Org Gp 'A' services w.e.f. 01.01.2006.3. MHA has denied grant of NFU or parity with other Org Gp 'A' services to the officers of the BSF, CRPCRPF, ITBP etc on the grounds that their cadres do not form part of Org Gp 'A' services.4, According to Monograph on Cadre Management of Group 'A' Central Services issued by Department of Personnel and Training (D.o.P.T) the cadres of officers of BSF, CRPF, ITBP have been recognized Central Gp 'A' services. However, these cadres have not been extended the status of Org Gp 'A' services because their cadre controlling authority i.e. the MHA has not issued a gazette notification to this effect


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5. The Combined strength of officers' cadre in BSF, CRPF, ITBP, etc. is about 12,000. Denial of status of Org 'Gp 'A' service and consequently the benefits of NFU to the officers cadre of CAPFs, who are always in the forefront securing the country's international borders and providing internal security, amounts to gross injustice. Besides suffering delays in promotions the CAPF officers suffer financial loss in each rank. Their promotions are vacancy based in strictly hierarchy based organizations. An IAS officer enters Super Time Scale (scale post of Joint Secretary with Grade Pay of Rs 10,000 in the Central Govt. after 17-20 years of service wh whereas a CAPF officer takes 30 years or more to reach the equivalent scale in the rank of Inspector General. 6. Slow career progression and denial of financial benefits at par with other Central Gp 'A' services vitiates the organizational climate and adversely affects the thoughts, feelings, behavior, and resultantly the op operational efficiency of the organizational members.7. High levels of discrepancy in salary, and consequently the attendant perquisites, cause dissatisfaction and lack of motivation to work among the officers of the CAPFs. This discrepancy coupled with slow career progression also result in belittling of the CAPF officers in civil society.8. DG BSF had in Jan 2011 had taken up the case with MHA for extension of NFU to BSF cadre officers. Unfunfortunately, it did not find favor with the MHA and was rejected. 9. CAPF officers play a crucial role in safeguarding national integrity, and contribute towards the eco economic progress of the country by providing a safe and secure atmosphere. ****** ******

Injustice to Gallantry Awardees of PMF & Police Personnel PMF Retd Officers Association, Chandigarh missive No. PMFROA/2012/9/ 01 dated 9 Sept,2012, addressed to the Dr Manmohan Singh, Hon'ble Prime Minister of India with copy to Shri Sushil kumar shinde, Home Minister. Subject: Discrimination against the Gallantry Awardees of Police Medals for Gallantry- Request for intervention to set things right The Government of India has been following the policy of honouring the gallant personnel of the armed forces, paramilitary forces and police organizations, and giving them incentives in recognition of their gallant actions.2 Gallantry has always commanded respect and recognition, and as per policy of government of India, the gallantry medal awardees have been granted monetary incentives in the shape of allowances at notified rates from time to time.3 Based on the recommendations of 6th Central Pay Commission (6th CPC),the government had revised the monetary rates of these allowances, as per following notifications of Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)(a) MoD notification vide press release Id No 38832 dated 14 May, 2008. These were further revised upwards vide MoD No 7(119)/2008-D(AG) dated 30 March,2011.(b) MHA notification No 11026/4/8-PMA dated 05 Sept, 20084 The Table attached as appendix indicates the rates of monetary allowance applicable to various gallantry awards in their order of precedence approved by President of India ( Part 1 section1 of the Gazette notification dated 5 Dec, 1990) of various gallantry awards for the defence services ( Army, navy and Air Force), as also the Police series of gallantry awards.5 It is seen that, whereas, the rates of gallantry allowance in respect of defence Services were revised upwards, almost by more than double in March, 2011, the recipients of police gallantry awards continue to get same allowances as were notified in 2008 which are abysmally low. The rates of the police series of gallantry awards are to be revised by the MHA, which has not taken any action in the matter. 6 Gallant personnel, whether serving under the MoD or the MHA, is a hero and deserves equal respect in accordance with the order of precedence notified by the President of India Secretariat7 I, on behalf of, Paramilitary personnel, humbly request you to consider this disparity in the rates of two categories of gallant soldiers, who have faced the enemy , terrorists or other anti social elements


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and showed their grit to face them boldly and with courage. The non-revision of the monetary allowances is great injustice to recipients of Police series of gallantry medals. This disparity needs to be addressed on priority to maintain the morale of all uniformed forces.8 MHA may kindly be directed to revise the monetary allowance of police series of Gallantry Awards in commensurate with the precedence, these deserve. An early action will be highly appreciated as it will be great morale booster Sd/- (P S BEDI) DIG(Retd)BSF, Chairman

GALLANTRY AWARDS AND ALLOWANCES

S.No Gallantry Medal Monetary Allowance by MoD ( Auth; MoD Press Release Id No 38832( 14-5-08)

Monetary Allowance by MHA ( Auth; MHA No 1026-PMA dt.8-9-08

Monetary Allowance by MoD( Auth; MoD No 7(119)/2008-D(AG) dt.3-3-11

1 Param Vir Chakra Rs 3,000/- ----- Rs 10,000/-2

Ashok Chakra

Rs 2,800/-

----

Rs 6,000/-

3

Maha Vir Chakra

Rs2,400/-

----

Rs 5,000/-4

Kirti chakra

Rs 2.100/-

---

Rs 4,500/-

5

Vir Chakra

Rs 1,700/-

----

Rs 3,500/-6

Shaurya Chakra

Rs 1,500/-

----

Rs 3,000/-

7

Presidents Police medal for Gallantry

---

Rs 1,500/-

----

8

Sena Medal/Vayu medal/Nau sena Medal

Rs 500/-

---

Rs 1,000/-

9

Police Medal for Gallantry

----

Rs 900/-

---

******

Appointment of IPS Officers

The Government has introduced a third mode of recruitment to the Indian Police Service, known as Limited Competitive Examination. Dy SPs of State Police Services, Assistant Commandants of CAPFs and Captains/Majors of Armed Forces have been made eligible to appear in the same. The scheme of Limited Competitive Examination has initially been approved by the Competent Authority for only 2 years. The approval of Competent Authority mandates for evaluation of the scheme after expiry of that period. Even the first batch has not been inducted till now. So the question of impact study at present does not arise. Consultations with all the State Governments as well as other stakeholders, viz the UPSC, Ministry of Law & Justice, Ministry of Defence etc. were made before finalizing the scheme of Limited Competitive Examination. Out of 24 States whose comments were received, 20 agreed with the proposal either unconditionally or with some suggestions. Rest of the 4 States expressed their disagreement. The UPSC also agreed with the proposal. Even the examination notification was prepared by them. This fact was also upheld by the Hon'ble High Court of Delhi at New Delhi in W.P. (C) No. 1610 of 2012. In fact in this judgement the Court observed that “….. the matter was ultimately discussed at all levels and the UPSC, Ministry of Law etc have fallen in line.” This was stated by Shri Jitendra Singh, Minister of State of Home Affairs in written reply to a question by

thDr. Ajay Kumar in the Lok Sabha on 4 Sept,2012. ******

One Rank one Pension On the recommendations of PMO, a Committee was set up under the Chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary in June, 2009 to look into the issue of ̀ One Rank One Pension and other related matters`. After considering all aspects of the matter, the Committee keeping in mind the spirit of the demand, suggested several measures to substantially improve pensionary benefits of Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBOR) and Commissioned Officers, which have been accepted by the Government and orders for


Sept. - Oct. 2012

17

implementation of all the recommendations have been issued.Government has constituted a Committee headed by Cabinet Secretary and consisting of Principal Secretary to Prime Minister, Defence Secretary, Expenditure Secretary, Secretary (ESW) and Secretary, DOP&T for looking into the pay and pension related issues of relevance to Defence Services Personnel and Ex-servicemen. The Committee has already had several meetings and the recommendations of the Committee are to be submitted to the Government by 8.8.2012. Action on the recommendations can be taken after the committee`s report is processed and accepted by the government.This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Shri MM PallamRajuin a written reply to Shrimati Ingrid Mcleod and others in Lok Sabha . –PIB

'ONE RANK ONE PENSION' : SERVICE CHIEFS MEET CABINET SECY ON PENSION ANOMALIES

Service chiefs meet Cabinet Secy on pension anomaliesth Three Services chiefs met Cabinet Secretary Ajit Seth on Wednesday( 8 Aug,2012 )regarding

anomalies in salaries and pension of soldiers and long pending demand for 'one-rank, one-pension'. The

meeting came about after they complained that no Services representative was there in the high-

powered panel set up by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh last month to look into the grievances of the

men in uniform.

The panel headed by the Cabinet Secretary and comprising Defence Secretary, Principal Secretary

to the Prime Minister, Secretary Department of Expenditure, Secretary Department of Ex-Servicemen's

Welfare and Secretary Department of Personnel and Training will submit its report including the issue of

'one-rank, one-pension' to the Prime Minister on Wednesday. He is expected to announce some welfare

measures for ex-servicemen in his address to the nation on August 15.

Admiral Nirmal Verma, General Bikram Singh and Air chief Marshal NAK Browne had written a letter to

Defence Minister AK Antony in the last week of July about the absence of a Services representative on

the panel.

Interacting with reporters here on Tuesday, Verma said there was no Service representation in the

committee. However, there was interaction with the panel and Service had briefed the committee about

the anomalies.

Meanwhile, the terms of reference of the committee were to look into the issues like common pay-

scale for in-service JCOs and other ranks, initial pay-fixation of Lt Col/Colonel and Brigadier/equivalent,

review and enhancement of grade pay, placing of all Lts General in Higher Administrative Grade (HAG)+

scale and grant of non-functional upgradation (NFU) to armed forces personnel.

As regards ex-servicemen, the committee was directed to look into the issue of 'one-rank, one-

pension', enhancement of family pension, dual family pension and family pension to mentally/physically-

challenged children of armed forces personnel

******

Correcting Anomalies in Sixth Central Pay Commission Recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission and several improvements made thereon by the Government have been largely well received by the armed forces personnel including ex-servicemen. Some issues regarding service conditions, pay, pension and allowances have subsequently been received. These issues are examined by the Government on case to case basis.In the matter relating to retirement benefits, an Anomaly Committee was set up under the Chairmanship of Secretary (Defence/Finance). This Committee identified some anomalies which have since been addressed to by the Government. Improvement of service conditions, pay, allowances and retirement benefits of armed forces personnel is a continuous process. Recently, a Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary has been set up to look into certain issues of relevance to the defence service personnel and ex-servicemen and to provide suitable recommendations.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Mohd. Ali


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18

Khan in Rajya Sabha today.( 22 Aug,2012) ******

Re-Employment to Ex-ServicemenCentral Government provides 10% reservation for Ex- servicemen in civil jobs in Group ̀ C` posts

and 20% in Group `D` posts. Most State Governments provide reservation for Ex-servicemen which varies from State to State as it is based on the total population of Ex- servicemen domiciled in the State and the rehabilitation policy of the concerned State. It is the responsibility of the concerned Government to implement the reservation policy. Since applying for Government jobs by Ex-servicemen is voluntary, data in this regard is not maintained.This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju in a written reply to Shri Anurag Singh Thakur in Lok Sabha on 13 Aug,2012

****** Ministry of Defence ( Dept of Ex-servicemen Welfare) No 1(6)/2011-D(Pen/Pol) dated 6-01-2012Sub: Grant of Family Pension to childless widow of Armed Forces Officers and Personnel Below officers Rank (PBOR)

Govt of India, Min of Defence, Dept o Ex-servicemen Welfare issued letter No 17(4)2008(2)/D(PEN/Policy) dated 12-11-2008 for implementation of govt decisions on the

threcommendations of the 6 CPC for revision provisions regulating Pension/gratuity/commutation of Pension/ family pension etc for the armed forces officers and PBOR retired or died in harness on or after 1-1-2006.

As per provisions contained in Para 11.3 of this Ministry's above said letter dated 12-11-2008, the childless widow of a deceased armed forces personnel shall continue to be paid family pension even after her remarriage subject to the condition that that the family pension shall cease once her independent income from all sources becomes equal to or higher than the minimum prescribed family pension in the central govt.

Consequent upon receipt of certain references from various quarters seeking clarification regarding applicability of above mentioned provisions in cases where death of the employee took place prior to 1-1-2006 and childless widow of the deceased employees got remarried before / on /after 1-1-2006, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensioner's Welfare, Dept of P & PW, New Delhi vide their O M No1/4/2011-P & PW(E) dated 1-4-2011 has decided in consultation with Ministry of Finance (Dept of Expenditure) that the childless widow of a deceased employee who expired before 1-1-2006, shall also be eligible for family pension irrespective of the fact that the remarriage of the widow had taken place prior to / on or after 1-1-2006,subject to fulfillment of other conditions. The financial benefits in such cases have, however, been allowed from 1-1-2006.

The matter has been examined in the Ministry and it has been decided that provisions of Ministry of PPG&P ( Dept of P & PW), New Delhi, above said O M dated 1-4-2011 shall mutatis mutandis apply to the Armed Forces Personnel. ******Ministry of Defence ( Dept of Ex-servicemen Welfare) letter No 2(2)/2011/D(Pen/Pol) dated 26-12-2011Sub: Payment of ex-gratia lump sum compensation to Defence Personnel who are invalidated out of service on account of disability attributable to or aggravated by Military service.

The Defence Service Personnel, who are disabled, incapacitated in the performance of their bonafide official duties under various circumstances and are boarded out from service on account of disability / war injury attributable to or aggravated by military service, shall be paid ex-gratia lump sum compensation amounting to Rs 9 Lakh for 100% disability. For disability / war injury less than 100% but not less than 20%, the amount of ex-gratia compensation shall be proportionately reduced. No ex-gratia compensation shall be payable for disability / war injury less than 20%. The proportionate compensation would be based on actual percentage of disability as certified by the invalidating Medical Board, without applying broad banding provisions as contained in Para 7.2 of Ministry of Defence, Dept of Ex-servicemen Welfare letter No 1(2) /97-D(Pen-C) dated 31-1-2001.

The other terms and conditions for admissibility of ex-gratia lump sum compensation pertaining to the circumstances specified in MoD letter No 20(5)/2009/D(Pay/services) dated 4-6-2010 will be applicable to decide each individual case by Pension sanctioning Authorities concerned.

These provisions shall apply to all the eligible Defence Service personnel who are invalidated


Sept. - Oct. 2012

19

out of service on or after 1-4-2011 i.e. the date from which similar benefits are allowed to the personnel of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) ******Ministry of Defence (Dept of ex-servicemen Welfare) corrigendum No PC-10(01)/2009-D (Pension/policy)-Vol. II dated 27-03-2012,Sub: Implementation of government decision on the recommendations of the Cabinet Secretary's Committee- Revision of Pension in respect of Personnel Below Officers Rank (PBOR) discharged prior to 1-1-2006.

The undersigned is directed to refer this ministry's letter PG No 10(1)2009-D(Pen/Pol) dated 08-03-2010 as amended vide letter PC No 10(01)/2009-D(Pen/Pol) dated 15-04-2011 regarding revision of service pension /special pension/ invalid pension/service element of disability pension/pension in

strespect of pre-2006 PBOR pensioners with effect from 1 july,2009 in terms of govt decision for implementation of recommendations of Committee of Secretaries headed by cabinet secretary. Due to difference in weightage allowed for different ranks for computation of pension, the revised pension

stapplicable from 1 July,2009, in certain lower ranksin certain qualifying service happens to be more as compared to higher ranks with same qualifying service . similar anomally arising in the rates of minimum guaranteed pension of pre-2006 Armed forces pensioners stand rectified vide this Ministry's letter No 17(3)/2010-D(Pen/Pol) dated 15-11-2010.2 The above said anomaly in the rates of revised pension has been considered by the govt and the President is pleased to decide that where the amount of revised pension,determined in terms of this Ministry's above quoted letter dated 08-03-201o as amended, of a higher rank happens to be less than the pension of a lower rank of same group with same qualifying service, the pension of higher rank (with same group) shall be stepped up to the level of his junior counterpart.

st st3 In view of the above decisions,the revised rates of pension applicable from 1 Jan, 2006 and 1 July,2009 as indicated in various tables / their respective columns and are appended as appendix to this Ministry's above said letter dated 08-03-2010 as amended, shall be modified to the extent indicated in the appendix attached to this letter. ( Not published)3.1 With effect from 1-7-2009, the revised pension in respect of pre-1-1-2006 retiree honorary Sub/ Lieut of Navy and honorary flying Officer of Air force, as determined in terms of this Ministry's letter No 17(4)/2008(1)/D(Pen/Pol) dated 11-11-2008 as amended, with actual qualifying service (without weightage) of 28 years and above shall also be revised to Rs 13,590/- per month.4 This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Division of this ministry vide UO No 10(18)2009/Fin/Pen dated 27-03-2012. Sd/-(Malathi,U S to govt of India) ******

Deprived Section of Ex-Servicemen Ex-servicemen with service less than 15 years are not entitled to pension as it is a mandatory

requirement for Personnel Below Officer Rank to render 15 years and for Commissioned Officers 20 years qualifying service to earn pension. Minimum qualifying service is an essential criterion for pension in the Government.

The Short Service Commissioned Officers who are not pensioners are eligible for certain schemes of DGR like Training, Security Agencies and other self-employment schemes. Ex-Defence personnel with more than 5 years of service are entitled to CSD canteen facilities available in units / establishment apart from being employed as security guards. Some grants out of RakshaMantri Discretionary Funds is also provided to non-pensioners upto the rank of Havaldar.

This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Dr MM PallamRajuin a written reply to Shri Gopal Singh Shekhawat in Lok Sabha

*******


Sept. - Oct. 2012

20

Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions( Department of Personnel & Training) O M F. No. 1/21/2012-IR dated 4 sept,2012

Subject: Internship Programme on Implementation of Right to information.The undersigned is directed to say that the Department of Personnel & Training as the nodal Department for Right to Information Act., 2005 has felt the need to consolidate and document the experiences of the Ministries/Departments of Government of India in the implementation of RTI, its success, constraints in implementation, identify the areas which need more attention, address the gap areas and see what need to be done to help achieve the objectives of the Act.2. The Department of Personnel and Training has drawn up a short term Internship Programme for undergraduates pursuing five year Integrated Course in Law to conduct an analysis of RTI applications in Public Authorities under the Central Government. After the internship, the interns would submit their reports to DOPT and concerned Ministry / Department.3. Ministries / Departments desirous of getting the above mentioned analysis are requested to allow interns sponsored by DOPT to analyse a sample of the RTI applications received in the last one year in the respective Ministry/Department. It is requested that the number of interns that can be accommodated by the Ministry/Department may also be intimated alongwith the details of Nodal Officer to coordinate with DOPT. The expenditure of the Internship Programme by way of conveyance allowance of the interns would be borne by DOPT. The response in this regard may please be intimated to DOPT latest by 20th September,2012. (Anuradha S.Chagti) Director

******Ministry of P P G & P (Dept of P & T) O M No. 20020/4/2010-Estt. (D dated 13 September, 2012

Subject : Seniority of officers holding posts/grades in grades merged in pursuance of recommendations of Sixth Central Pay Commission.The undersigned is directed to invite reference to para 2 (i) of this Department's O.M. No. AB-14017/66/2008-Estt. (RR) dated 9th March, 2009, which provides that where all the posts in one or more pre-revised scales are merged with a higher pre-revised scale and given a common replacement scale/ grade pay/ pay scale, the suitability of the incumbents need not be assessed for granting them the higher replacement scale/grade pay/ pay scale, there is also no need for the incumbents to complete any minimum eligibility service in the earlier scale of pay. There will be no change in the inter se seniority of the incumbents in the merged scale which shall be decided based on the general instructions on the subject.2. The 6th CPC in its recommendation contained in sub para (vi) of Para 2.2.13 has stated that the seniority of government servant will depend on the grade pay drawn. This will invariably be more for a higher level post. References have been received from Ministry of Railways/Ministry of Defence etc. regarding fixation of seniority of officers after merger of pay scales in pursuance to recommendation of Sixth Central Pay Commission. The recommendation of 6th CPC has been accepted on 29.08.2008 and the merger of pay scale(s) of the post has been made effective w.e.f. 01.01.2006. The issue of seniority has been further examined and it has been decided in consultation with UPSC and Department of Legal Affair that seniority of officers holding post in grades which have been merged in pursuance to recommendation of Sixth Central Pay Commission will be determined as follows :-


July - Aug. 2012

21

2. The 6th CPC in its recommendation contained in sub para (vi) of Para 2.2.13 has stated that the seniority of government servant will depend on the grade pay drawn. This will invariably be more for a higher level post. References have been received from Ministry of Railways/Ministry of Defence etc. regarding fixation of seniority of officers after merger of pay scales in pursuance to recommendation of Sixth Central Pay Commission. The recommendation of 6th CPC has been accepted on 29.08.2008 and the merger of pay scale(s) of the post has been made effective w.e.f. 01.01.2006. The issue of seniority has been further examined and it has been decided in consultation with UPSC and Department of Legal Affair that seniority of officers holding post in grades which have been merged in pursuance to recommendation of Sixth Central Pay Commission will be determined as follows :-I. The status of a government servant as on 29.08.2008 including those who have earned promotion between 01.01.2006 to 29.08.2008 will be protected as appointment/promotions are made as per the provisions of statutory recruitment rules applicable to the post/grade. The merger of the pay scale(s) of the post(s) as recommended by 6th CPC have been made effective w.e.f. 01.01.2006; the seniority of government servant which existed on 29.08.2008(date of acceptance of recommendation of 6th CPC) will be maintained i.e. the holder of post having higher pay scale or post which constituted promotion post for the posts in the feeder grade, will rank enbloc senior to those holding post having lower pay scale or the posts in feeder grade.II. Where posts having different pay scales prior to 6th CPC recommendation and now after merger have come to lie in the same Pay Band with same Grade Pay, the inter-se seniority of all the employees will be fully maintained with employee in a higher pre-revised pay scale being placed higher vis-a-vis an employee in a lower pay scale. Within the same pre-revised pay scale, seniority which existed prior to revision would continue.III. Where recruitment for the posts in different pre-revised pay scale(s) was initiated separately for each posts, prior to acceptance of recommendation of 6th CPC i.e. prior to 29.08.2008 but selected individual joined duty on or after 30.08.2008 in the revised pay scale(s) against the posts which have been granted same Grade pay, such officers will be assigned seniority enbloc below those officers who were in position as on 29.08.2008.IV. The availability of officers nominated on the basis of panel of promotion given by DPC or selection list given by selecting Authority will be decided as on 29.08.2008. In case a officer from the panel given by DPC or selection list given by selecting Authority has joined on or prior to 29.08.2008, then status of all the officers included in panel given by DPC or selection list will be protected and all officer will be considered available and their seniority determined by following the basic principle of seniority i.e. order of panel given by DPC or merit list given by selecting Authority. In case all the officers included in the panel given by DPC or selection list given by selecting Authority joins after 29.08.2008, then the seniority of such officers within a grade, will be determined by placing them below all available officers as on 29.08.2008 but maintaining their interse seniority in order of panel of DPC or merit list given by selecting authority.3. All the cases of determination of seniority except merged MTS posts will be decided


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accordingly. The issue of determination of seniority of merged MTS (erstwhile Group D) posts would be taken up separately.4. Hindi version will follow. ******Min of P P G & P (dept of P&T) OM No 12012/2/2009-Estt(L) dated 01-08-2012

Extension of orders for grant of Child Care Leave to all Civilian Female Industrial employees of Central Government.

The undersigned is directed to state that the matter regarding extension of benefits of Child care Leave to all civilian female industrial employees of defence establishments covered by the CCC(Leave) Rules 1972 has been under consideration of the dept. It has been decided in consultation with the Ministry of finance ( dept of expenditure) to extend the benefits of Child Care Leave to all female industrial employees of the Central Govt at par with the civilian female industrial employees of defence establishments covered by the CCS(Leave) Rules, 1972 subject to condition provided in Rule-43 C of the CCS(Leave) rules 1972, as amended from time to time.2 This order shall take effect from the date of 1-9-2008. Earned leave, if any,availed by these employees between 1-9-2008 to till date specifically for the purpose of taking care of needs of their eldest two children may be converted into Child Care Leave. ******

Cabinet approved Rs.2300 crore benefits to ex-servicemen on four issuesThe Union Cabinet has approved the recommendations of the Committee headed by Cabinet Secretary for benefits to ex-servicemen on four issues. The financial implications of the improvements made as per the Cabinet decision on the four items are broadly estimated at Rs.2300 crore per annum. The details are as follows:I. One Rank One Pension:On One Rank One Pension, the demand of the Defence Forces and Ex-Servicemen Associations is that uniform pension be paid to the Defence Forces personnel retiring in the same rank with the same length of service irrespective of their date of retirement and any future enhancement in the rates of pension be automatically passed on to the past pensioners.The difference in the pension of present and past pensioners in the same rank occurs on account of the number of increments earned by the defence personnel in that rank. There is also a difference between the pension of pre 1.1.06 and post 1.1.06 retirees belonging to a particular rank. The UPA Government on two previous occasions has taken decisions to narrow the gap between the present and past pensioners, particularly those belonging to the ranks of JCOs and Other Ranks.On the issue of One Rank One Pension, the following have been approved by the Cabinet:(i) Bridging of the gap in the pension of pre 1.1.06 and post 1.1.06 JCO/OR retirees by determining the pension of pre 1.1.06 retirees on the basis of notional maximum for ranks and groups across the three Services as in the case of post 1.1.06 retirees. In addition, the weightage of qualifying service in the ranks of Sepoys, Naik and Havaldar would be increased by two years for both pre and post 1.1.06 retirees.(ii) The pension of pre 1.1.06 Commissioned Officer pensioners would be stepped up with reference to the minimum of fitment table for the ranks instead of the minimum of pay band.These are expected to largely meet the demands of the defence pensioners on one rank one pension.II. Enhancement of Family Pension :(i)The pension of pre – 1.1.2006 family pensioners(Commissioned Officers, Honorary Commissioned Officers, JCOs/ORs ) be stepped up based on the minimum of the fitment table instead of the minimum of the Pay Band;(ii) Establishing linkage of the family pension with the pension of JCOs/ORs, in those cases where the death takes place after the retirement of the JCO/OR since such a JCO/OR drew a pension based on the maximum of the pay scales, 60% of the pension applicable to JCO/OR pensioners would be granted to


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23

the family pensioner in case of normal family pension calculated a 30% of last pay drawn. Accordingly, based on the rank, group and length of service of the deceased JCO/OR pensioner, his pension would first be determined on notional basis. In cases where death of JCO/OR took place after retirement, the family pensioners in receipt of normal family pension would become entitled to 60% of the said pension determined on notional basis and those in receipt of enhanced family pension will be entitled to 100% of this pension. Similar entitlements would be determined in the case of Special Family Pension; and(iii) The family pensioner of the JCO/OR would be granted pension arrived at on the basis of the family pension worked out as per the formulation at (i) above or the pension on the basis of stepping up with reference to the minimum of the fitment table, whichever is beneficial. Further, the linkage of family pension with retiring pension be applied in the case of post 1.1.2006 family pensioners of JCOs/ORs also.III.Dual Family Pension: Dual family pension would be allowed in the present and future cases where the pensioner drew, is drawing or may draw pension for military service as well as for civil employment.IV. Family pension to mentally / physically challenged children of armed forces personnel on marriage:Grant of family pension to mentally/physically challenged children who drew,or are drawing or may draw family pension would continue even after their marriage.The above recommendations made by the Committee on pension issues of Ex-Servicemen may be implemented from a prospective date and payment made accordingly. ******

Ministry of P, P G and P (Deptt of P & P'W) (Desk 'E') OM No No.1/16/2011- P&PW(E) dated 20-09-2012Sub: Family pension – list of documents to be submitted by a claimant member of family (other than spouse) along with Form 14, PPO and death certificate in respect of the deceased pensioner/family pensioner — regarding.The undersigned is directed to refer to Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare O.M. of even number, dated 8th December, 2011 on the above subject (copy enclosed).From the representations received in this Department, it appears that some offices ask the applicant family pensioners for the documents not indicated in the office memorandum indicated above.All the Ministries/Departments are requested to instruct their attached/subordinate/field offices to follow the instructions contained in the 0.M., dated 8.12.2011 strictly to avoid any hardships to the family pensioners. They may also be advised to go through the other office memoranda issued during the last two years as contained in the Circulars on Family Pension on this Department's website and also on pensionersportal.gov.in.

(O.K. Solanki) Under Secretary

Ministry of P, P G and P (Dept of P & P W) OM No.45/51/97-P&PW(E) Dated: 21st July, 1999

Recommendations of 5th Central Pay Commission – Grant of Family Pension to Parents, sons and Daughters – Clarifications regarding.

Orders were issued in this Department's Office Memorandum of even number dated 5th March, 1998 prescribing the income criterion and certain other eligibility conditions for the grant of Family Pension to the dependent parents and widowed or divorced daughters of deceased Central Government employees in pursuance of the recommendations of the 5th Central Pay Commission. This Department has been receiving a number of references seeking clarifications on issues of relevance for implementation of these orders. After consideration of these references, the following clarifications are furnished for the guidance of all concerned:

1. In terms of the OM dated 5th March, 1998, parents who were wholly dependent on the deceased

Government Servant when he/she was alive will also be entitled to Family Pension with effect from 1st

January, 1998 subject to the fulfillment of the other conditions prescribed in this regard. Doubts have

been raised whether parents of Government Servants, who died prior to 1st January, 1998 will also be


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24

entitled to Family Pension. It is clarified that Family Pension will be admissible in these cases subject to

the following:

a. The parents were wholly dependent on the Government Servant when he/she was alive;

b. The Government servant has not left behind a widow/widower, eligible son or daughter or a

widowed/divorced daughter, who will have a prior claim to Family Pension in the order indicated;

c. All other prescribed conditions are fulfilled.

The Family Pension will, however, be payable only with effect from 1st January, 1998. It will be the

responsibility of the pension sanctioning authorities concerned to satisfy themselves, based on a

scrutiny of the service records and other relevant documents, that the parents were, in fact, wholly

dependent on the deceased Government Servant when he/she was alive and that he/she has not left

behind any of the other specified beneficiaries who have a prior claim to the family pension.

d. The family pension wherever admissible to parents. the mother will receive the pension first and after

her death the father will receive the family pension.

2. The production of Income Certificate as stipulated in this Department's OM of 5th March, 1998 is also

required to be insisted upon before authorizing the Family Pension to the eligible sons and daughters

(including widowed/divorced daughters) and dependent parents. In case they are self-employed or are

in receipt of income from sources other than employment, Income Certificates furnished by the

concerned beneficiaries themselves may be accepted for the purpose.

2. The production of Income Certificate as stipulated in this Department's OM of 5th March, 1998 is also

required to be insisted upon before authorizing the Family Pension to the eligible sons and daughters

(including widowed/divorced daughters) and dependent parents. In case they are self-employed or are

in receipt of income from sources other than employment, Income Certificates furnished by the

concerned beneficiaries themselves may be accepted for the purpose.

3. Eligible sons of deceased Government employees will also be required to furnish six-monthly

certificates in regard to their marital status as is required of eligible daughters.

4. Payment of Family Pension is to be discontinued in the event of the eligible sons/daughters ( including

widowed/divorced daughters) getting married/remarried or on their earning a monthly income exceeding

Rs.2550/- or on attaining 25 years of age whichever is earlier. The crucial date for determining their

continued eligibility to Family Pension shall be 1st January, 1998 and not 5th March, 1998 (the date of

issue of this Department's earlier Office Memorandum) as has been presumed by some of the ministries

and departments.

These clarifications issue with the concurrence of the Department of Expenditure, vide their

No.1064/EV/98 dated 29.6.1999.


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ATTENTION PRE-2006 PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERSMinistry Finance (Dept of Economic Affairs) OM No. 38011/2/2011-Ad.1 dated 24 Sept,2012Subject: Revision of PPOs of pre-2006 Pensioners/Family Pensioners – Furnishing of details – Regarding.

Pensioners from Department of Economic Affairs, Security Printing & Minting Corporation of India Ltd.(SPMCIL) and National Saving Institute(NSI) who had retired from the Government Service on or before 31.3.2006, are requested to fill-up the details in the enclosed Performa along with the documents mentioned therein and send the same to the following officers through Speed/Registered Post expeditiously so that the proposal regarding revision of their pension could be finalized at the earliest. While forwarding the information. your Designation at the time of retirement may please be indicated distinctly

Name of the Origination from where

retired Officer to whom the Details are required to be sent

Department of Economic Affairs

Under Secretary(Ad.1 &11),

Department of Economic Affairs, Room No.234,

North Block, New Delhi.

Tel: 011 – 23092872 Email: [email protected]

Security Printing & Minting Corporation of

India Ltd (SPMCIL)

Deputy General Manager(IR), SPMCIL, Jawahar

Vyapar Bhawan, 16th Floor, Janpath, New Delhi.

Tel: 011- 43582250 Email: [email protected]

National Saving lnstitute(NSI)

Director, National Saving Institute(NSI), 4th Floor,

CGO Complex, Seminary Hills, Nagpur.

Tel: 0712- 2510866 Email: [email protected]

(Ashok Kumar) Under Secretary

******Ministry of P, P G & P (Dept of P & P W) O M No.1/23/2012-P&PW(E) Dated: 13th September, 2012Sub: Change in date of birth/age of family pensioners — regarding.In accordance with the instructions issued vide this Department's OM No.38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 21.5.2009, 11.8.2009, 25.6.2010 & 28.9.2010 and OM No.1/19/11-P&PW(E) dated 3.8.2011, additional pension/family pension to old pensioners/family pensioners is allowed on the basis of the date of birth/age recorded in the Pension Payment Order (PPO) or other office records. Only in case the details regarding date of birth/age are not available in the PPO/office records, additional pension/family pension to old pensioners/family pensioners has been allowed on the basis of certain documents i.e. PAN Card, Matriculation certificate. Passport, CGHS Card, Driving Licence, Voter's ID Card and Aadhaar Number issued by UIDAI.2. During his service and at the time of retirement, a Government servant is required to give details of his

http://www.finmin.nic.in/the_ministry/dept_eco_affairs/admin_division/Pre2006Pensioners_RevPPO.pdf


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family, including date of birth of its members, in Form 3.Date of birth/age of the members of family mentioned by the Government servant in Form 3 was not mandatory to be verified by the Head of Office. It is felt that in some case, the date of birth/age of a family pensioner, as recorded in the PPO/office records might be incorrect.3. Some representations have been received in this Department regarding the hardship being caused to old family pensioners in getting the additional pension on account of incorrect recording of the date of birth/age in the PPO. They have been requesting for allowing the change of date of birth in the PPO on the basis of the documents prescribed in the various OMs mentioned in Para I above.4.The matter has been considered in this Department in consultation with the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure and the following decisions have been made:i. Since the date of birth of the Government servant is recorded in the PPO on the basis of the service records and the date of superannuation etc. also is determined on the basis of this date of birth, there is no question of allowing change in the date of birth of the retired/deceased pensioner in the PPO.ii. The request for change of date of birth/age of the family pensioner (parents and spouse) in the PPO may be submitted by a pensioner/family pensioner to the Head of the Department of the organisation where the Government servant had last served along with at least one of the documents mentioned in Para 1 above and a declaration on a non-judicial stamp paper regarding the correct date of birth of the family pensioner. The Head of the Department may allow the change in the date of birth of the family pensioner if he is satisfied that the conditions indicated in this Department's OM No.38/37/08-P&PW (A) dated 21.5.2009 have been fulfilled and that a bona-fide mistake has been made in recording the mistake has been made in recording the date of birth in the PPO.iii. No other document will be accepted for allowing the change in date of birth/age of the family pensioner in the PPO.iv. In order to avoid any possibility of recording an incorrect date of birth in the PPO, in future, the Government servant may be required to submit one of the documents indicated in Para 1 above as proof of date of birth of spouse or parents along with the details of family in Form 3. In the case of children certificate of birth from the Municipal authorities or from the local panchayat or from the head of a recognised school if the child is studying in such a school or from a Board of Education may be accepted.5. As regards pensioners/family pensioners belonging to the Indian Audit and Accounts Departments, these Orders issue after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.6. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure vide their I.D. No 428/E.V/2012, dated 27/8/2012. (SujashaChoudhury) Deputy Secretary

******

Ministry of P, P.G. & P (Dept of P & P W) O M No.1/23/2012-P&PW(E) Dated: 27/9/2012Sub: Instructions regarding date of birth/age of family pensioners.

This Department has issued instructions vide OM No.38/37/08-P&PW(A), dated 21.5.2009, 11.8.2009, 25.6.2010 & 28.9.2010, OM No.1/19/11-P&PW(E), dated 3.8.2011 and OM No. 1/23/2012-P&PW(E), dated 13.09.2012 for consideration of date of birth/age for grant of additional pension/family pension to old pensioners/family pensioners. Certain documents i.e. PAN Card, Matriculation certificate. Passport, CGHS Card, Driving Licence, Voter's ID Card and Aadhaar Number issued by UIDAI have been allowed to be accepted in this regard.

2. For revision of an old PPO, date of birth of family pensioner is a mandatory field in the software. Some queries have been received in this Department regarding clarification whether these instructions are applicable for accepting date of birth/age of the spouse at the time of revision of PPOs.

3. It is hereby clarified that the above instructions are applicable at the time of issue/revision of a PPO for a family pensioner irrespective of the age of the family pensioners at that time. It is further clarified that in case the exact date of birth is not available in the PPO/office records, the age of the family pensioner as on 1st January may be taken same as what she/he had completed in the previous year. For example, if a family pensioner completes the age of 54 years in 2012, her/his age as on 1st January, 2013 may be


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taken as 54 years and PPO may be revised accordingly (Sujasha Choudhury)Deputy Secretary

SOURCE-

*******Details of Revised Charter of Demands of Post & Telecom BSNL Pensioners Welfare Association, Chandigarh,submitted to Dr Manmohan Singh, Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, vide their letter No P&T REVISED CHARTER OF DEMANDS1. Restore statutory defined Pension scheme to employees recruited on or after 1-1-2004, withdrawing New Pension Scheme & rescind PERDA bill.2. Grant full parity up to 2006 pay structure to all pre-2006 retirees.3.Provide comprehensive Medical facilities and assistance to all pensioners including post/Telecom pensioners and pensioners of autonomous bodies following central services rules & pay structure through revamped CGHS or CS MA rules. If Health insurance is introduced it should be optional and not compulsory. Also grant Rs 1200/- pm FMA to those who have not been covered under CGHS.4. Implement revised (double) rate of allowance recommended by VI CPC and introduce MACP scheme with effect from 1-1-2006.5. Minimum pension should be equal to minimum pay unskilled labour fixed from time to time.6.grant minimum pension to SRPF/CPF retirees including family pensioners of SRPF?CPF retirees, and revise the existing ex-gratia payment to CPF retirees at par with SRPF retirees with effect from 1-11-2006.Also further revise this pre-revised ex-gratia by multiplying it with the factor of 2.26 as done in respect of pre-2006 retirees pension.7. Declare 50% of D R as D,P for the purpose of computing increase in D R and for fixation of pension of

stfurther retirees w,e,f 1 Jan,2011.8.Extend liberalized pension rules applicable to post 2006 retirees to pre-2006 retirees viz computation of pension on the basis of last pay drawn, if it be more beneficial, full pension after 20/10 years service.9. Allow enhanced family pension equal to the pension last drawn by the deceased spouse / parents for 10 years also where death of the pensioner has occurred after retirement.10. Grant increase in DR after interval of 3 months on the basis of 3 months average increase in the cost of living.11. Review the existing EPF scheme and bring it at par with civil pension scheme under CCS (PENSION) rules 1972.12. Grant full revised pension to PSUs absorbees (option for 100% commutation strictly as per directions of the Supreme Court.13. Remove anomaly in pension of DOT employees absorbed in BSNL between 1-11-200 and 31-7-2001.14. Permit allotment of vacant govt quarters to pensioners / grant HRA to pensioners at same rate as applicable to serving employees.15.Grant one month pension as ex-gratia payment for festival to all pensioners.16.Grant LTC once in 4 years to pensioners.17.Grant pension to GDS and contingency paid staff who have completed 5 years after regularization of their service as GDS /contingent employees.18 Commence increased additional pension scheme on attaining 75 years age, it being @ 20%,30@,40%,50%,75% and 100% after each 5 years.19, Restore payment of medical allowance to BSNL pensioners who have opted for it.20.recognise Bharat Central Pensionere Confederation and affiliates and provide negotiating forum on the lines of JCM and C A for serving employees with attendant facilities.21.Grant one month pension/family pension to defray funeral expenses on the death of pensioners/family pensioners.22.Restore commuted portion of pension after 12/9 years.23. Ensure prompt payment of increased IDRs to BSNL pensioners.24.78.2% IDA merger benefit to BSNL pensioners since 1-1-2007.

*******

http://ccis.nic.in/WriteReadData/CircularPortal/D3/D03ppw/FP_270912.pdf


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Min of P P G & P (Dept of P& PW) No 4/8/2012-P&PW(D) dated 12-9-2012, addressed to Shri Joginder Singh,General secretary, Post & Telecom BSNL Pensioners Welfare Association, ChandigarhSub:- Representation on pensionary matters-reg Please refer to your representation dated 1/8/2012 received through OM no 42/5/2012-P&PW(G) dated 3/9/2012 on the above subject. Comments on items concerning this Desk are as under :-

thItem 5-The govt had sanctioned on the recommendation of 5 CPC, Rs 100/- p.m. as FMA in the year th1997. After 6 CPC, this amount was raised to rs 300 p.m. w.e.f. 1-9-2008. The demand for further

enhancement of FMA was raised during the meeting with representatives of staff side (JCM) on pensionary matters held on 18-5-11. The demand has been examined in great details.in view of the fact

stthat FMA was increased three-fold from Rs 100 to Rs 300 p.m. in May, 2010 ( effective from 1 sept,2008) at a substantial cost to the exchequer, any further upgraded increase in FMA at this stage may not ber appropriate given the constraint on the fiscal side of the revision already effected. Govt is in the interim, also contemplating introduction of Central govt Employees and Pensioers health Insurance Scheme to meet the healthcare requirement of central Govt employees and pensioners. Therefore, the demand for any enhancement of FMA cannot be accepted at this juncture. So far as indoor treatment and MIS is concerned, comments of Ministry of health 7 family Welfare may be obtained. The issue of payment of HRA to central govt pensioners was also examined by the V pay commission. In para 140.28, on the report of the V pay commission, it has been stated that the demand of payment of HRA and CCA to pensioners, was considered and not agreed in principle and also in view of the huge expenditure involved. Since pensioners are free to stay in any part of the country and govt have no right to utilize their service, they have no claim for payment of HRA/CCA.Item 14,15,16 The demand for HRa & Transport allowance, children educational allowance and hostel

thsubsidy, Festival Advance to pensioners was also raised in the SCOVA, 19 meeting on 29-9-2010 under the chairmanship of Hon'ble minister of state (PP). the para 6.10 of the minutes is reproduced below ;-

th “ 6.10 Appointment of 7 CPC, HRA & Transport allowance, children Educational Allowance and Hostel subsidy, festival advance. It was informed by the representative of Ministry of Finance that it was too early to say anything about

thconstituting 7 CPC, at this stage. The demands like HRA, children Allowance, LTC etc appear very farfetched and it was difficult to consider the same.”Item 21 The demand for grant of funeral expenses to spouses on the death of the pensioner/family pensioner to perform obsequies on humanitarian grounds has been examined in department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare. It was felt that performance of funeral rituals etc are filial duty of the ward of the deceased person and govt has no role in this regard. Moreover, the pensioners are extended the benefits available to the serving employees viz, health facility etc. It is pertinent to mention that the family members of the deceased pensioner get family pension as per rules and their needs are taken care of. Therefore, the demand was not found possible to accede.

rdItem 22 The 1/3 restorable pension of such absorbees is regulated as per judgment of courts although the full pension of such absorbees is already revised as per the demand. The issue was raised before C A T Hyderabad in several OAs. The C A T Hyderabad has already agreed in its judgment dated

rd th27/9/11 that the instructions of Govt of India on the revision of 1/3 restorable pension consequent of 6 CPC recommendations contained in Om dated 15/9/08 are as per court judgment including the Apex court. Sd/- (Amitabh dwivedi), u/s to govt of India ******

Nobody grows old by merely living a number of years. People grow old only by deserting their ideals. Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up interest, wrinkles the soul. Worry, doubt, self-distrust, fear and despair … these are the long, long years that bow the head and turn the growing spirit back to dust.

( Extract- Golden Years-Sept, 2012)


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MISCELLANEOUS

SENIOR CITIZENS NATIONAL PROTEST DAY AT CHANDIGARHthChandigarh Senior Citizens' Association (CSCA) organized a massive event on 17 August 2012 to

thmark Senior Citizens National Protest Day as decided by AISCCON. The march was held on 17 August, thinstead of 16 August, because of following circumstances:

thAll offices and most industrial establishments being closed on 15 August, last minute fabrication and liaison with Government functionaries is almost impossible.Most journalists having worked overtime on the National holiday, media works at very low key and tend to ignore other than emergent events.

th16 August is also a busy day for top government functionaries so they avoid making time for delegations. A semantic change in the name of the March was made as “Awareness Rally” without changing its content. The word “Protest” was found to have certain negative connotations with which many senior citizens were reluctant to identify. In any case, with processions and agitations banned in the city centre, a “Protest” Senior citizens (and some youth) from 27 NGOs participated. We marched with banners carrying our main demand and messages and approx. 300 of us wore black chest patches – black, to show protest – bearing slogans. We formed up in neat groups behind the banners and walked silently through the main shopping complex (Sector 17) ensuring that there was NO disruption of commercial activity or traffic, NO noise pollution and NO litter. The 75 minute-long march ended at the Piazza and was extensively covered by the print and electronic media. A 7-member delegation then proceeded to Punjab Raj Bhawan to present a copy of the memorandum addressed to the PM, to Sh Shivraj V Patil, rally had little chance of getting the necessary permissions. Over 1000 senior Governor Punjab and Administrator UT, Chandigarh. He listened patiently to our 40 minute presentation, interacted with us and promised to take up our concerns with the Centre. We also took the opportunity to invite him to preside over the function on 01 October.The Memorandum was based largely on the draft sent by AISCCON with a few local additions and including Sh Vyasamoorthy's point regarding Senior Citizens Welfare Fund.

CHANDIGARH SENIOR CITIZENS' ASSOCIATION - PRESS RELEASE

SENIOR CITIZENS DEMAND RIGHTFUL PLACE IN SOCIETY More than one thousand senior citizens marched through Sector 17, the city's main shopping centre, as part of the nation-wide protest in support of their demand for a better deal for older persons. The marchers included several in the age group of 90 and above, including some who needed walking assistance or were on wheel chairs. There were many younger persons, too, who had come to show their solidarity with their “grandparents”. The march was unique in many ways. For one, it was a silent one: NO slogan shouting and NO speeches. For another, it was held in such a manner that there was no obstruction to the normal flow of traffic. The organizers, Chandigarh Senior Citizens' Association (CSCA) had in place an effective marshalling and control organization to ensure that everyone knew his/ her position in the order of March. The participants carried slogans and demands on waist high banners and on black coloured chest patches. Almost all the demands were on behalf of the deprived sections among them and asked for honest implementation of existing policies like National Policy on Older persons 1999, Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 and Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension Scheme. There were other messages, too, bringing out their concerns like “Let Peace And Prosperity Prevail Everywhere” and “Stop Global Warming” or those espousing their continued relevance like “Not Old, Mature”, “Still Active” and “Loving Care”. President of the Association Daljit Singh Grewal, said that as many as 27 NGOs had come together, perhaps for the first time in the history of the City, in this manner. As this was part of the nation wide protest he expected the Governments at the Centre and States to take notice that the constitutional and legal rights of older persons could no longer be a matter of convenience. A delegation of senior citizens later went to meet Sh Shivraj V Patil, Governor Punjab and Administrator Chandigarh UT, to present a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister. Copies of the memorandum will also be given to Governor Haryana, the Chief Ministers of Punjab & Haryana, Chandigarh MP Pawan Kumar Bansal, Advisor to the Administrator and the Deputy Commission


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LIST OF DEMANDSNPOP. All States must implement the 13-year old National Policy on Older Persons immediately with adequate budgetary provisions.Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. This should be operationalised all over the Country without further delay. Due publicity should be given to its provisions both in print and electronic media as well as hoardings at public places.Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension. This should be raised to Rs 2000 per month.Affordable Health Care & Health Insurance for all Senior Citizens, Fully subsidized for BPL and modest premium for others with no restriction relating to entry/ exit age and pre-existing diseases. Separate Ministry/ Commissionerate for Senior Citizens oth at the Centre and in each State.Senior Citizens Welfare Fund, as stipulated in NPOP 1999, should be set up with Rs 30,000 lying unclaimed in PPF, FDs and LIC which rightfully belongs to senior citizens.PENSION RELATED DEMANDS Grant of Minimum Universal Pension of Rs 2000/- or 50% of minimum wage (whichever is more) per month per person, to all 60+ senior citizens in both organized & unorganized sectors; with provision of automatic revision corresponding to minimum wage & inflation.Removal of Disparity in Revision of Pension - Pre 2006. A common multiplication factor need to be adopted for the revision of pension of all pre 2006 retirees so that all pensioners in this group irrespective of pre-retirement status, get equal enhancement i.e. if basic pension of pensioners' of one pre retirement scale/pay band is getting enhanced by three times then all other pensioners/family pensioners should be similarly benefited to maintain parity.Restoration of Commuted Portion of Pension. This should be done in 12 Years, as recommended by 5th CPC instead of present 15 years.Additional Old Age Pension to all Superannuated Persons This should start from the age of 65yrs @ 5% of the basic pension with provision of enhancement by 5% every 5yrs;Defence PensionsOne Rank One Pension for Defence Pensioners Parity in Defence & Civilian Pensioners. Civilians should be treated at par with retirees from uniformed sector.XII. Minimum Pension/ex-gratia. This should be raised to Rs 2000/- Per month with provision of enhancement corresponding to inflation;All Superannuated Persons/Family Pensioners/ex-gratia Recipients. They should be provided healthcare cover;XIV.Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) without any distance restriction, in lieu of normal OPD facility be raised from present Rs 300/ to Rs1200/ per month in line with Ministry of Labour & Employment.lbe made exempt from Income Tax. ******Senior Citizens Forum (Regd) ,Zirakpur (Punjab) on call from the Joint Action Committee observed Protest Day on 16 August, 2012.Approx 200 senior citizens ladies and gents assembled near NK Sharma Enterprises, on Ambala Road. They wore black badges, held play cards and banners in their hands and marched towards Panchkula Chawk. Before start of march Sh NK Sharma MLA and Chief Parliamentry Secretary addressed the Sr Citizens. He was handed over the copy of memorandum addressed to Hon'ble Chief Minister through Dy Commissioner and other authorities.The MLA assured that he would arrange a Senior Citizens Community Centre at a central place in Zirakpur, very shortly. He also assured that he would get Geriatric Health care in the Govt Hospital at Dhakauli,for the Sr Citizens.He further assured that he would recommend our state level demands to Hon'ble CM through a D.O. letter and pursue the same.Members marched to Panchkula Chawk in the form of a Rally. At Panchkula they sat on Dharna up to 1230 PM.Speakers S/Sh DR Sikri,ML Sikri, BS Pannu,GS Bhogal,KS Bhatia,SS Multani,Dr PN Bansal,Sh Sudarshan Sagar,Mrs. Satvinder Kaur and Forum President Sh NR Lakhesh addressed the members. They requested the authorities to meet our demands viz. Separate Ministry/ Deptt at Centre and State levels for the welfare of Sr Citizens, 50% rebate in bus fare, Free health care to all the Sr Citizens who are not in receipt of health care from central/state govts, Community Centres in large colonies/groups of small colonies, Creation of Cells for grievances of Sr Citizens in all the Police Stations, Old age pension to be increased to Rs 2000/-. ******

b


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Walk-in Facility for PassportThe Ministry of External Affairs issued an advisory in June, 2012 to all Regional Passport

Offices in the country to introduce walk in facility to ease availability of on line appointment and facilitate easy submission of forms for passport applications under following categories:

Applicants for Tatkaal services (fresh / re-issue cases);Applicants for issue of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC); Applicants for deletion of ECR status in passports without any change in personal particulars Applicants for inclusion of name of the spouse in passport; Applicants with valid passports, seeking new booklets in case of exhaustion of visa pages; Senior Citizens (above 60 years); Minor below 15 years whose parents hold valid passports; Physically challenged persons; and Central / State Government servants, their spouses and dependent minor children who have 'No Objection Certificate' / Identity Certificate.

The Ministry of External Affairs has recently introduced walk in facility to ease online appointments and smoothen submission of applications at the six Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) under Regional Passport Office, Hyderabad from these above mentioned categories of applicants w.e.f. August 01, 2012.

The Minister of State in the Ministry Of External Affairs Smt. Preneet Kaur provided this information in reply to a question in Lok Sabha –PIB

PILOT PROJECTS ON CASHLESS TREATMENT OF ROAD ACCIDENT VICTIMS

The Ministry of Road Transport & highways has drawn up a proposal for cashless treatment of victims of

road accidents on the National Highways.The proposal was discussed with stakeholders who proposed

that a few Pilot Projects should be undertaken to get first hand experience on the various inputs and

outcomes of the scheme and their practicability. These Pilot Projects are planned in four to five states of

the country.Salient features of the Pilot Project would be:

Ø Ministry of RT&H will create a corpus from within the existing budget allocation of the Ministry to operate

the Pilot Projects

Ø A single toll-free number for ambulance services.

Ø Ambulances to shift accident victims to the nearest hospital in the shortest possible time and rescue

vehicle (cranes) and hydraulic cutters for extricating accident victims trapped inside a crashed vehicle and

clearing the accident site.

Ø A 24×7 call centre to receive calls for ambulances.

Ø State Governments to prov ide mobi le pol ice posts on selected st retches.

Ø A network of empanelled hospitals to provide cashless medical treatment to the accident victims for the

first 48 hours

Ø Payment at C.G.H.S. rates, failing which AIIMS rates subject to pre-determined overall monetary ceiling

of Rs.30,000/- on total expenditure in each case.

Ø Standard operating protocols to handle accident victims

Ø An Insurance Company / Third Party Administrator to operate and monitor the pilot projects

Ø Tr a i n i n g i n F i r s t A i d f o r f i r s t r e s p o n d e r s t o R o a d S a f e t y Vo l u n t e e r s

Ø Road Safety Volunteers to be provided by Nehru Yuvak Kendra Sangathan

Ø NIC to create a software for recording reports of accidents, plotting the accidents taking place on the

selected stretch, monitoring movement of the accident victims to hospital, treatment during and after the

first 48 hours, settling of bills

Ø Special drive by the enforcement agencies of the States concerned to enforce road safety-related

provisions of Motor Vehicles Act and Central Motor Vehicles Rules e.g. speed limits, wearing helmets and

seat belts, compulsory third party insurance, prohibition on drunken driving etc,and treatment of accident

prone spots.

******


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NEW CHAIRMAN CCCGPA- SHRI M L PANGHOTRA- A PROFILE

Shri M L Panghotra was elected as the Chairman of the Co-ordination Committee of Central

Government Pensioners Associations (CCCGPA) in July, 2012. Shri Panghotra is not new to our

organization. He was earlier the Vice Chairman of CCCGPA, Chandigarh during its formulating years in

the 1990s, He was part of the team of active Office bearers, which was instrumental in establishing an

identity to the organization, leading to its nomination as a member of the SCOVA by the President of

India, to voice the problems of the pensioners before the government of India.

2 Shri M L Panghotra belongs to the martial race of Dogras. He had his earlier education in

Amritsar, and had done his Post graduation in Mathematics from Panjab University. Right from his youth,

he had been taking keen interest in various cultural activities and sports, and had played in the Punjab

Ranji cricket tournament.

3 After Post Graduation, Shri Panghotra joined service in Indian Audit & Account Dept in 1960.

Besides various duties in the dept, he had also been on deputation to other depts of India. His nature of

work involving audit, with All India liability, he had the opportunity to travel to far off places, including

Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a part of his duties. Shri Panghotra retired as an I A &A S officer in

December, 1994, after meritorious service of 34 years.

4 As a young officer in the department, he kept abreast of various extracurricular activities

including sports. He, besides taking interest in various activities / sports, was instrumental in enrolling

numerous sportsmen in his department.

5 After his superannuation, Sh Panghotra settled down in Mohali in sector 60 (Phase 3B2), but

continued to actively take part in various activities and remained involved with various NGOs, including

the Association of Retired Officers of the I A & A D, Mohali Consumer Forum, Federation of Residents

Welfare Association, Mohali, Senior Citizens (Pensioners) Welfare Council, Mohali, Residents Welfare

Association of Phase IIIB2, Mohali, Accounts & Audit Fraternity, Mohali and Chandigarh Bridge

Association etc.

7 At present Shri Panghotra is the Vice President of Institute of Public Auditors of India (north-west

chapter), and has his office in the Punjab building of Audit Dept. in Sector 17, Chandigarh. As the

Chairman of CCCGPA, Sh Panghotra has resolved to put in his level best in the service to the elderly

pensioners, belonging to any dept / organization, in particular, and senior citizens at large.His principal

aim, necessarily being the welfare of the members of the NGO

8 Shri M L Panghotra can be contacted at his residence, 1148, Sector 60 (Phase 3B2), Mohali.

Tele; (1) 0172-2225147 (Residence), 0172-2721308 (office) ; Mobile : 92179-12203, E mail Id :

[email protected].

*****

6 In 2005, Sh Panghotra became the Vice President of the Institute of Public auditors of India

(IPAI) patronized by the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, providing services through its members

to the states / central govt's Autonomous Bodies etc. under contract. The Chandigarh chapter of IPAI is

headed by Shri Onkar Nath,Pr AG (Audit), Haryana as President and Dr Surinder Kumar, DAG(Audit)

Haryana as Secretary.

CRITERIA FOR DONATION OF BLOOD- BLOOD GROUPS

TYPE CAN GIVE BLOOD TO CAN RECEIVE BLOOD FROM

A+

A+, AB+

A+, A-, O+, O-

O+

O+, A+ ,B+ , AB+

O+ , O-

B+

B+ .AB+

B+ , B-

, O+ , O- AB+

AB+

Everyone

A-

A+, A-

,AB+ , AB-

A-, O- O-

Everyone

O-

B-

B+, B-

, AB+ , AB-

B-

, O-

AB-

AB+ , AB-

AB-, A-, B-, O-

Blood is the common bond between human beings. It is beyond Caste, Creed, Race, religion or Nationality

DONATE BLOOD…………………GIVE LIFE

All CGHS beneficiaries must check the computer print-out prescribing medicines / drugs by CGHS M

Os for the correctness. Any discrepancy noticed must be brought to the notice of the M O for

correction. Similarly at the time of collection of 'indented' medicines from L P window / counter, the

correctness of medicines supplied, their 'date of expiry' etc must also be checked.

Any grievances must be placed in the grievances box kept in the waiting hall. Your full name, CGHS card

No must be clearly written in all correspondence.

APPEAL TO SUBSCRIBERSThe subscribers may remit their subscription by CASH / M O or by crossed local/ multicity cheque or D D in favour of 'CCCGPA, CHANDIGARH'. The subscription may also be deposited in any branch of STATE BANK OF PATIALA in Savings Account No 55118503844, in cash or by cheque in favour of CCCGPA, Chandigarh.

The subscription in cash / M O be remitted to Shri M L Panghotra, Chairman, CCCGPA, at his address,1148 sector 60,MOHALI-160059 ( Ph: 0172-2225147 / Cell-9217912203) The counterfoil for subscription deposited in bank may also be remitted to him to link the deposit with the subscriber's Ledger Folio account. In all correspondence quote your Ledger Folio No, Failure to do so may result, by default, into lapse of your subscription, and discontinuation of the magazine.

Rates of subscription: yearly – Rs 150/- , 5 years – Rs 600/( The Address slip on the magazine, indicate your Ledger Folio No, Month & Year of Renewal of subscription, address with PIN code & Tele / mobile Nos. Any discrepancy may be pointed out for correction)

ALL INDIA CONSUMER PRICE INDEX FOR DR/DA (Base Year 2001 = 100)

PRINTED MATTERR.N.I. No. CHAENG-2000/2569

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Published by Raj Pal Sharma for The Coordination Committee of Central Govt. PensionersAssociations Chandigarh H. No. 799, Sector 4, Panchkula. Printed by

Saranjit Singh at Majestic Printing Press, Bay Shop. 7, Phase 7, Mohali-160 059, Ph. : 5090645Editor P. S. Bedi

PATRONS

G.S. Bhangoo, 5, Sec. 10-A, Chandigarh Ph. 2743636

M L Panghotra, 1148, Sector 60, Mohali Ph. 2225147 A L Vohra, 3059/1, Sector 44D, Chd. Ph. : 2661615

D.C. Gupta 778, Urban Estate Ph I, Patiala, Ph. : 0985505778 Harchandan Singh 32, Ph. 6, Mohali Ph. : 2228306

EDITORIAL BOARD

P S Bedi DIG (Retd.) BSF 2186, Sec 35-C, Chandigarh Ph. 2615048 Editor

Rajpal Sharma 799, Sector 4, Panchkula Ph. 2567891/9316122214 Executive Editor

Joginder Singh 686, Sector 40-A, Chandigarh Ph. 2688686/9417008686 Asstt. Editor

G. S. Saini 3178, Sector 71, Mohali Ph : Asstt. Editor

(website: cccgpa.in) Email : [email protected]

Pardeep Mehra 198, Sec. 11 Chd. Ph. 4633526

9417178500

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The opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors. These do not necessarily reflect the views of theeditor nor does the editor take responsibility for the inaccuracy, if any, of the statements contained therein.

All India Gen. Index

Total of 12 months

Twelve Monthly Average

% increase over 115.76 for DA

Feb.12199

2322

193.50

67.16

Mar.12201

2338

194.38

68.30

Apr.12

DA / DR w e f - 01 July, 2012 = 72% (Increase of 7%)

205

2357

194.42

69.68

May 12206

2376

198.06

71.04

June 12208

2395

199.58

72.41

Jul 12212

2414

201.17

73.78

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63

15

45

(E

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26

30

69

2

(CM

O I

/C)

Aug.214

2434

202.83

75.22

Union cabinet approval 24 Sept, 2012. Min of Fin OM No.1(8)/2012-E-II (B)dated 28-9-12 Min of PPG&P OM dated....................

central government pensioners associations,...

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