31-05-2012
റിട്ടയര് ചെയ്യുന്ന നമ്മുടെ
സഖാക്കള്:
1. Com. K.T.Gopalan, PA, Kuttanad
2. Com. Abdul Razak, MTS, Divnl. Office
3. Com. P.Hydrose, MTS, Mannarkkad.
Greetings to All.
By Divisional Secretaries.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
MINUTES OF THE MEETING DATED 21.05.2012 TAKEN BY DG (POSTS) WITH JCA.
MINUTES OF THE MEETING DATED 21.05.2012 TAKEN BY SECRETARY (POSTS) WITH POSTAL JOINT COUNCIL OF ACTION (PJCA) COMPRISING OF NFPE, FNPO AND ITS AFFILIATED ASSOCIATIONS.
Secretary (Posts) took a meeting with PJCA on 21.05.2012 to take stock of the follow up action in regard to the discussions held in the meetings dated 10.01.2012 and 12.01.2012.
The gist of discussions, ad seriatim, is as follows:
1. Separate orders communicating the decision that no mail office will be closed for next three years and no dislocation of staff to places outside headquarters.
Instructions issued vide letter No.28-8/2011-D dated 14.05.2012. Further discussions in this regard to be held with Member (Operations) on 29.05.2012 (AN).
2. Orders communicating the decisions about no closure/merger of post offices if no simultaneous relocation is possible.
As discussed, a copy of the instructions issued vide letter No.40-6/2011-Plg (A) dated 21.2.2012 has been made available to PJCA.
3. Revision of wages of casual labourers and absorption.
A comprehensive proposal in the matter of casual labourers will be formulated by 30th June 2012.
4. Revised recruitment rules for group-D & postman as agreed and syllabus for group-D examination (25% from GDS) & Postmen/Mailguard.
Revised rules of recruitment for group-D and Postmen will be notified shortly.
5. Revision of cash handling norms to GDS & ensuring no reduction of TRCA under any circumstances and enhancing the Bonus ceiling to 3500/- & revise the cash allowance to BPM at the rate of Rs.50/- per trip instead of month.
The issue regarding non reduction of TRCA is under active consideration of the Department. The issue of bonus ceiling in respect of GDS has not found favour with the Ministry of Finance. The revision of cash allowance of BPM is being processed.
6. Orders revising the instructions liberalizing the powers to the divisional heads instead of circle heads in case of tenure posting to C and B class offices.
The order will be issued shortly.
7. Reiteration of earlier instructions on the grant of special pay to unqualified Accountants & Counting of Special Allowance for pay fixation without filing SLP against Bangalore High Court judgment.
In the wake of advice of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure, there is no alternative but to file an SLP in the Apex Court.
8. Circulation of clarification given to Punjab Circle to the remaining circles also in respect of protection of pay of defunct PO & RMS Accountants.
The Integrated Finance Wing (IFW) has sought some further inputs on the issue and action is being taken thereon. Once it is cleared by the IFW, it will be circulates to all heads of circles.
9. Orders on forcible allotment of staff quarters to the town SOs SPMs as post attached quarters.
Instructions have been issued vide letter No.18-9/2010-Bldg. dated 10.5.2012.
10. Non supply of balance statement of NPS to the official as on 31.3.2012.
The PJCA was informed that the statement of transactions of the subscriber for the period from 1.4.2010 to 30.6.2011 had already been dispatched to the subscribers in the form approved by PFRDA by NSDL, Mumbai vide letter dated 19.9.2011 and information in this regard was sent to all Directors of Accounts (Postal) vide letter dated 18.11.2011. The contention of the PJCA was that no such statement was received by the subscribers till date. The matter will be checked up with Postal Accounts Wing again and further clarification in this regard will be sent to the PJCA shortly.
11. Enhancement of financial powers to LSG, HSG II and HSG I.
The proposal is under examination in consultation with the Integrated Finance Wing.
12. Enhancing the honorarium of invigilators engaged in departmental examinations.
The rates for honorarium for invigilators were revised vide letter dated 26.4.2011.
13. Allowing the physically handicapped candidates for appearing in IPO examinations.
The issue is under active consideration in consultation with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
14. Orders on drawal of Cash handling allowance to Treasurers, Accountants irrespective of their position in MACP.
The PJCA was informed that a reference in this regard had been made to the Department of Personnel and Training. However, their contention was that it being a case of financial upgradation, the proposal should not have been referred to the DOPT. The position will be checked up for further course of action.
15. Finalisation of cadre review proposals before 31.3.2012.
It was decided to formulate a proposal by 30th June 2012 for further examination in consultation with the nodal ministries.
16. Payment of incentive instead of honorarium for attending the PLI/RPLI work at divisional offices after decentralization.
The issue of payment of incentive is under process and PLI Directorate is being asked to get it expedited.
17. Orders for repatriation of officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to CO/RO to their home divisions.
Suitable instructions in this regard have already been issued to heads of circles. However, the view point of the PJCA was that instead of only forwarding the minutes of the meeting, the PLI Directorate should have issued detailed instructions clearly spelling out the course of action to be taken by the heads of circles in this regard as well as in regard to decentralization of PLI, RPLI work. PLI Dte. will be asked to do the needful.
18. Allowing the Postmaster’s cadre officials to appear for IPO/PSS Group-B examination.
The issued was discussed at length and it was decided to review it after some time keeping in view the merits and demerits of the proposal as well as the response of the officials opting for Postmasters cadre.
19. Orders permitting the Postmaster cadre officials to officiate in HSG-I vacancies.
The issue was discussed at length and it was decided to review it after some time keeping in view the merits and demerits of the proposal as well as the response of the officials opting for Postmasters cadre.
20. D.O letter from Member (P) to all circle heads to fill up all posts of Sorting Postmen, Mail Overseer, Cash Overseer & Head Postmen.
Instructions were issued vide Member (P)’s D.O. letter No. 37-4/2012/SPB-I dated 19.4.2012.
21. Allowing MTS to decline promotion to postmen cadre under seniority quota without losing MACP promotion.
Suitable instructions in this regard will be issued shortly.
22. Reiteration of instruction for rotational transfer for SBCO staff by notifying cluster of divisions.
Instructions issued vide letter No. 141-91/2012-SPB-II dated 2.4.2012.
23. Issue instructions to all for ensuring filling up of all sanctioned LR posts.
It was decided to examine the matter in consultation with all heads of circles with an idea to have a clear picture of sanctioned LR posts, in the first instance.
24. Prompt grant of child care leave – issue of instructions.
Instructions reiterated vide letter No. 51-3/2011/SPB-2 dated 10.5.2012.
25. Clarifications to be issued on MACP as agreed upon on the following:
(i) MACP will not be deferred on the ground of contemplated disciplinary/vigilance proceedings.
(ii) Instructions on review of ACRs/APARs by scrutiny committees.
(iii) Recovery orders by DA(P) in the matter of pay fixation on MACP in case of MTS.
(i) Cases relating to declining promotion prior to issue of MACP order (prior to 2009).
Suitable instructions regarding (i) above are under issue. Instructions regarding (ii) have already been issued. The issues raised at serial number (iii) (iv) are under examination. The PJCA requested for issue of an early order in respect of cases where the officials declined promotion prior to issue of MACP order in 2009.
26. Issuing clear instructions to all CPMGs that in the city areas where RO/COs are situated decentralization of RPLI/PLI should not be done to city Postal Divisions, instead the work will be done by RO/CO staff as done before.
The PLI Directorate will be asked to issue detailed instructions in the matter of decentralization of PLI/RPLI instead of merely forwarding the minutes of the meeting.
27. Issuing orders on the items finalized by the Postmen committee and also follow up action on certain items to be referred to work study unit.
A committee constituted to consider the issues relating to Postmen has already submitted the report. The recommendations of the committee are under process.
28. Cadre-structuring and settlement of Group-D and Sorter anomaly issues relating to Postal Accounts.
The matter will be pursued further with Postal Accounts Wing and Establishment Division and the PJCA will be kept apprised of the progress in this regard.
29. Follow up action on civil wing employees issues.
The recruitment rules are presently pending with Ministry of Law and Justice. Will be notified immediately after it is cleared and further action to fill up the posts will be taken.
30. Examination of CRC & EPP norms.
It was decided to have a meeting with Member (Operations) on 29.5.2012 (AN) to discuss the norms.
Before concluding the deliberations, Secretary (Posts) brought to the notice of the PJCA about the serious problem which Department is facing in the form of abstraction of articles from Postal parcels and regarding delayed dispatch, mis-sorting & delivery of Speed Post articles. The PJCA was informed that lot of complaints have come from Hon’ble Members of Parliament also through news papers alleging abstraction of articles by Postal employees which is adversely affecting the image of the Department, besides affecting parcel post traffic. Secretary (Posts) desired all members of PJCA may advise the employees of the Department to desist from adopting such anti departmental activities, which are detrimental to both the Department as well as its employees during course of their meetings/conferences and consultations etc.
The meeting ended with vote of thanks to the Chair.
Monday, May 28, 2012
SAD NEWS
RED SALUTE TO COM. PARUL BOSE.
WITH DEEP SORROW I AM TO INTIMATE THAT COM. PARUL BOSE, WIFE OF COM. K.G. BOSE PASSED AWAY EARLY MORNING ON 27th MAY, 2012.SHE WAS A TRADE UNION LEADER HERSELF AND HAD TO FACE ASSAULT DURING THE SEMI-FACIST PERIOD IN WEST BENGAL. NFPE CONVEY ITS HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES.
M. KRISHNAN SECRETARY GENERAL, NFPE
Monthly Meeting Postponed
Monthly Meeting scheduled to be held on 30-05-2012 is postponed and rescheduled to held on 06-06-2012.
GPF INTEREST INCREASED T0 8.8 Percent
PUBLISHED IN PART I SECTION OF GAZETTE OF INDIA)
F.No.5(1)-B(PD)/2012
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
(Department of Economic affairs)
New Delhi, the 22nd May, 2012
RESOLUTION
It is announced for general information that during the year 2012-2013, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 8.8% (Eight point eight per cent) per annum. This rates will be in force during the financial year beginning on 1.4.2012.
ALL INDIA PROTEST BY TRADE UNIONS AGAINST PETROL PRICE HIKE
TRADE UNIONS OPPOSE PETROL PRICE HIKE BY PROTEST RALLIES ON 30 & 31.05.2012
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Com. K.V. Sreedharan. General Seceraty, AIPEU Group C,(NFPE), CHQ, New Delhi Retiring on 31st May 2012 on Superannuation.
We extend our warm greetings to Com. K.V.Sreedharan, and salute him.
The message given by Com. KVS in this occasion is appended below:
SIX YEARS INNINGS ! SURE ! NOT OUT !
Good-bye with Contentment
All of you are well aware that I am due for superannuation from the departmental service on 31.5.2012 and this is almost my parting General Secretary’s Desk. Perhaps I had the great chance of serving you in the capacity of General Secretary of this mighty organisation since 2006. I am recalling my affectionate association with all of you during this period and undoubtedly I am having the paramount pleasure that I did something to this movement and also to my fellow-men to the best of my ability. Gandhiji once said “ Satisfaction lies in the efforts; full effort is full victory” and as such I have not left any stone unturned in my efforts and exploited all the situations with full efforts to resolve the issues at the maximum despite the fact that I could not leave a clean slate to my successor. Of course! It is not possible to anyone. As Com Lenin rightly told that trade unions are schools for learning; A trade union is an incessant movement and problems will never end and will creep new issues at any time. I am leaving some benchmarks to my successor as well as some pending issues for his further follow up action.
P3, the best beneficiary on JCA calls
I recollect my presentations in the August AICs held in Pushkar & Jwalaji on the urgent need of taking special interest to mitigate the issues of Postal Group ‘C’ comrades and in particular to the shortage of staff and deadlocks in the promotions which were delaying a decade together. I have sincerely and seriously acted and settled many of the genuine demands of our Group ‘C’ during these six years. Whenever the Postal JCA notified strike calls, the best beneficiary among all was the P3 and many small issues remaining unsettled over decades were dealt with solutions. I wish to recollect your reminiscences to the following major advancements we have seen in our area.
Not exhaustive! Only very few
(i) The vacancies unfilled up in the LGO examinations (Residual vacancies) since 1999 were filled up. The total no. of such vacancies in PA cadre was approximately to the extent of 13000 which alone construed to the 15% of total sanctioned posts.
(ii) Mass scale recruitment of PAs by summoning all DPS Headquarters to Directorate was carried out in 2009, 2010 in the range of 8000 & 14000 Postal Assistants. The shortage of staff prevailed to the level of 40% were sorted out. The current vacancies are also notified for selection. Thus the long pending issue of shortage of staff in PA cadre has been sorted out despite the fact that there is no recruitment outside the Postal in Govt. Departments till now.
(iii) First time, all the examination process has been brought under OMR process with objective type questions. Resultantly all the Group ‘B’ Posts, earmarked for General line which were kept unfilled up over decades were filled up. All IP posts were filled up. Even there is surplus list in LGO exams this year in all circles which is due to this objective type pattern only. The number of chances for LGO candidates has been enhanced.
(iv) For filling up of all vacant IPO posts, surplus system was introduced. After four years it was discontinued as it affected the interest of candidates of own circle.
(v) P.A. Recruitment Rules have been revised. To avoid resignation of selected candidates, all the candidates possessing 60 % in Plus II are now entitled for selection like Bank & Railway recruitments.
(vi) The confirmation examination and its adverse effect if not passed within six chances has been scrapped. Many officials who did not pass the exam in six chances and stagnated in the last pay drawn are now benefiting.
(vii) Filling up of all vacant LSG, HSG II & HSG I posts on notional basis and grant of officiating pay. All HSG I posts now occupied by IP line officials are to be transferred to general line. Leave sanctioning powers to HSG I Postmasters. Filling up all vacant LSG APM Accounts posts as per the LSG Recruitment Rules 1976. Revision of LSG recruitment rules.
(viii) Applicability of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 in respect of those put on induction training prior to 1.1.2004. Refund of pension contribution to those recovered irregularly.
(ix) Stepping up of pay on promotion by comparing direct recruits. Extended the time limit for revision of option.
(x) Formation of Scrutiny committee for upgradation of ACR for grant of MACP promotions & various clarificatory orders on MACP (more than seven; and still three more pending).
(xi) Clear Instructions on fixing responsibilities under contributory negligence and no charge sheet without mentioning the violation of rules, upgradation of CR, no punishment for not performing OTA, irregular imposition of FR17A for the strike, withholding of pension, gratuity in case of minor case proceedings etc.
(xii) Revision of honorarium for calculation of RD Premature closure, Processing of PLI/RPLI claims, for engaging departmental exam, incentive for NREGIS work, Honorarium for Sixth CPC fixation and drawal of arrears, fixation of pension, Honorarium for fixation of TRCA, Revision of FSC, Honororium for invigilators, revision of split duty allowance, revision of SB Allowance, revision of FMC, enhancement of 25% allowances etc. The revised procedure in RPLI incentive at circle levels is the major achievement.
(xiii) Instructions on writing CRs.
(xiv) 25% incentive to Postal staff out of commission earned under business packages.
(xv) Stopped the move to close 9797 post offices and RMS offices.
(xvi) Formation of Cadre restructuring committee and the progress.
(xvii) Allowing physically handicapped officials to write IP examination.
(xviii) Settlement of various anomalies in post attached quarters, drawal of additional HRA, delegation of powers for dequarterisation and suspension of quarters and enhancing the financial powers of the divisional heads in securing accommodation for the post offices.
(xix) Stoppage of organizing meetings and melas on all the Sundays & holidays.
(xx) Problems of systems administrators and grant of conveyance and road mileage allowance to them.
The above are some of the noteworthy accomplishments but there are very many; Several long pending issues were elucidated and settled. We can proudly say that in almost all the issues, we placed in the Departmental council, we have resolved the maximum in favour of our comrades. The issues brought to our notice by the circles; sometimes even by the individuals were promptly attended.
As the Leader, Staff Side
As the leader of the Staff Side, JCM (DC), I contributed my best for the settlement of issues relating to other cadres (other than our P3) also. I had the satisfaction in my presentation during all the talks we had with the Department either in the Departmental Council or the Conciliation meetings held on the strike charter of demands and extended a lot to my fellow comrades. This is the great opportunity I have been provided due to my selection as the leader of the JCM staff side.
Trade union workshops
It is the first time in the history of P&T union, a Trade Union workshop was conducted in Thiruvanthapuram from 13.02.2011 to 15.02.2011. It was having the overwhelming response; followed by other unions. The workshop recently conducted at Puri from 04.02.2012 to 05.02.2012 is the landmark triumph of the CHQ in cultivating the cadres and leaderships on Trade Union history, Staff rulings, Disciplinary rules etc.
The materials compiled by me and distributed at the workshops and also in the two workshops conducted by NFPE at Munnar and Allahabad are the everlasting reference guides to our comrades. I had the honest satisfaction of generating a cream of leadership at all levels through the workshops and the participation of youth is most awesome. Many Circles followed the CHQ in steering such workshops at circle levels.
Experiences with Sixth CPC
It is my honour and pride to say that it is the first time in the P 3 movement, the draft Memorandum prepared by me within twenty days of my assumption as General Secretary for Sixth CPC was placed and discussed threadbare in the CWC held in Karimnagar. The collective wisdom was experimented. The memorandum submitted by the CHQ is the masterpiece of our work. I had the great opportunity to assist other General Secretaries also in preparing their memorandums. The experience I gained in submission of the memorandum, tendering oral evidences before Sixth CPC is ever rememberable.
Cultivating the cadres
(i) Out of my own experience that how the knowledge on rulings will help the trade unionists in handling the issues with the administration, the compilation in two volumes of rulings on Trade Union facilities, CCS (RSA) Rules 1993 & ED (RA) Rules 1995 were published and released on 25.08.2007 in the Allahabad CWC.
(ii) On the same day another book ‘Venture’, the Compilation of Selective important orders was launched. This is the first occasion of such activities by CHQ.
(iii) Hand Book 2010 was first time launched and printed 15000 copies. This was followed in 2011 & 2012 with 16500 copies & 13500 copies respectively. This is an historic record.
(iv) An updated Venture Edition II was related in the Federal council held in June 2010 and 3000 copies were printed.
(v) For the benefits of GDS, one book titled as GDS Crusader was released in the last AIC held in Alandi on Jan 2011. 3000 copies were printed.
(vi) Again for the benefits of GDS comrades, another book titled as ‘GDS Refresher’ was released in April 2012 to commemorate the formation of AIPEU GDS (NFPE). 3000 copies were printed.
I can proudly say that despite in the midst of the heavy brunt of the work in the CHQ, I endeavored and succeeded in releasing those books by foregoing several nights and burnt the midnight oil to educate the rank & file which I sensed a revolution of knowledge in the midst of our cadres after seeing their overwhelming response for those publications.
First Website
We can proudly say that we are the first among all C. G. Government employees unions/associations launched website for the union on 2007 January itself after our assumption in the CHQ and placed the memorandum which we submitted to Sixth CPC as the first post. So far we are having the viewers to the extent of 16 lakhs! So many items essential for the members are being exhibited including the address, Telephone No. & e-mail address of all divisional secretaries, Govt orders, manuals, publications, Bhartiya Post etc. Our branches are also motivated by CHQ in launching web sites for their own and at present our union is having seven Circle union websites and around 51 Divisional unions' websites. Thus we inspired all to exploit and fully utilize the benefits of the mechanization and I.T.
Bhartiya Post
We enriched and enhanced the superiority of Bhartiya Post among all the journals with the contents, quality and its presentation and also doubled its size as well as its subscribers. It comprises everything and as the Editor, I strained my best for its number one existence among all the union journals and also its prompt release. In order to penetrate its prominence in the Hindi speaking areas, minimum of four pages materials are being printed in Hindi with the caption of ‘Dak Jagirithi’.
Co-ordination
During this period, I had the best relationship with all sister unions as well as with other unions and in particular with Com Theyagarajan, Secretary General FNPO. I contributed a lot to the joint and effective functioning of all unions. The contribution I made for the revival & recognition of our Federation, thwarting the ill move of the Bhartiya union court case and thereafter the coordinated functioning with NFPE is the benchmark renowned for the effective joint functioning. I maintained a good relationship with the confederation leadership and contributed to its functioning also.
Bridged the gap between the equals
I can proudly say that my General Secretary Desks, Frequent interactions through mails, exhibiting all the developments then and there on the website and transparent functioning has bridged the gap between the leaders and cadres existed earlier. Even the ordinary member is seeking information directly from CHQ. The Motto which I adopted in my personal life and also practiced in public life that “ All are equal: I am one among the equals; Because I got the opportunity, I am General Secretary; that does not mean I am superior and more knowledgeable: There are many other intellectuals who did not get the chances; Otherwise they will shine better than me”.
The interaction, I introduced wherever I visited whether it is at circle level or divisional level has certainly enthusiase the comrades and more youngster are now embracing active participation in trade unions
More “I” s - Sorry Please
This is the first circular that I am using more “I” s because this is my last one and also the recollection of records of my activities before my departure and also the study materials for the future leadership to consider and set some of my actions as bench mark for the effective functioning of the leadership.
Too many Court cases – not diluted my will
This is also on the records that I shall be the only General Secretary who had faced 49 court cases right from Municipal Court to Supreme Court that too from my own circle. My elections as General Secretary was challenged and many more. Despite all the mental torture purported by some vested interests, I never tired or slept in focusing the demands of our comrades. No one can point our any lethargy in my action in taking up the cases. No paper received by CHQ was filed without any reply that too sent in time during this period.
I can proudly say that the recognition cancelled to our union due to the Court case filed in the Madras High Court by the Bhartiya Federation was thwarted within 20 days and restored recognition which alone paved way for the recognition of Federations in the Department of Posts. My timely action and contribution to the court case for dismissing the case filed by the Bhartiya federation is the milestone for which Com A.Veeramani, AGS also contributed a lot.
Sincerely strained but no results
I tried my best in focusing all the issues. However there are some issues which I could not get positive results like counting of services to RTP. The cadre review proposal submitted by us has not been finalized so far. Orders in respect of the many assurances decided during talks on strike charters have not been issued. Of course! One cannot have a clean slate!
Acknowledgement
I never desired, thought or expected to become the General Secretary. Of course! It was quite accidental at Jwalaji. Com. Balu, Ex-Circle Secretary, Tamilnadu was the instrumental in my elevation at that time. I am recording my sincere thanks to him. The wave length existing between me and our President Com. M. Krishnan is almost the same and we had a very perfect understanding and without his cooperation and guidance, I can't place this much records. My special thanks to Com. Balwinder Singh, Financial Secretary who is always in CHQ without minding time and working very hard assisted me not only in all my decisions but also even taking care of my ailing health on all occasions. Similarly I am placing on records my thanks to Com. Somenath Mukherjee, Ex-Deputy General Secretary Com. Com. R. Sivannarayana, Deputy General Secretary for their unstinted cooperation and affection during this period. The love and affection shown by my Office bearers and Circle secretaries are laudable which I enjoyed throughout these six years. My abundant thanks to all of them. Com C.C.Pillai and Com K. Ragavendran Ex Secretary Generals contributed a lot for my effective functioning and we had a perfect understanding during those days. I record my sincere thanks to them. Com. K. M. Ramesh, my advocate in Chennai rendered all legal assistance and vacated the stay and dismissed the BPEF case and all other Tamilnadu court cases. My special thanks to him.
My staff, My press & My caretaker
My staff, Com. Shiv Lal, Com Dhananjay and Naveen, despite my strict posture in office work, loved me very much and very affectionately. They learnt many things from me! Of Course, Our CHQ is the only union adopting the principle of model employer treating its staff as equals. I have received enormous cooperation from the Press and in particular from Sri Pradeep, Owner of Deep Printers in publishing Ventures, Handbooks, GDS Crusader GDS Refresher and also the Bhartiya Post to my taste. I remember and salute him at this juncture. I will be failing my duty if I did not mention Com Jaiprakash, Secretary, Lodhi Road who is my caretaker in the Sarojini Nagar quarters. The love and affection of Delhi divisional secretaries and comrades are ever rememberable.
Tamilnadu Comrades, the inspiration
As you know, I am retiring from the department service on 31st May 2012, I am getting ready to leave. I recall my association with you with great pride and with greater happiness. I am taking leave with more happiness. A man born and brought up in a remote village of Tamilnadu and served this august movement with sincerity and devotion right from 1974 ie. 38 years of unstinted trade union services; experienced with joys and tribulations in the public service is being relieved from the service while holding the highest echelon as General Secretary and Leader Staff Side in the midsts of love and affections of all my comrades throughout the nation which itself is the glory I am blessed. I am placing on records my special thanks to my Tamilnadu Comrades who were the object for my elevation and they were with me in the days of many tribulations and shared my burdens. My Narasimhulu who is associated with me during these 37 years shared all my sorrows during the days of tribulation and remained with me. My special thanks to my friend who is the example of the real friendship.
Loveable affection all along
I am especially grateful to you for your cooperation and good will all through my career as General Secretary of this union. The affectionate welcome and reception I enjoyed right from divisions to circles throughout these years are the sweetest memories I am taking along with me at this time. I am indeed proud of our association and thank you and also to your office bearers and your members having made me to do service sincerely since six years.
Keep an inch space in your heart for constant repair
A man is a bundle of relations; a knot of roots whose flower and fruits are very dear and sweet. A man should always keep his relations in constant repairs. Friendship is like love is destroyed by long absence and increased by short intermissions. We have seen many great leaders who have been forgotten due to out of sight. My only request before all of you “ Kindly allot an inch space in your heart and keep me in constant repair which I feel the most pleased and privilege for the service I rendered to this august movement.
I look forward to staying in touch with you always and my service is also always available.
GOOD BYE COMRADES AND RED SALUTE TO ALL OF YOU
Comradely Yours,
(K. V. Sridharan)
General Secretary
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
MONTHLY MEETING WITH SPOs
Next Monthly Meeting with SPOs will be held on 30th May-2012. Any items to be discussed in the meeting may be intimated to the Divisional Secretaries before 25th May 2012.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Latest Developments
GIST OF DISCUSSION WITH SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF POSTS ON 21-05-2012
Secretary, Department of Posts, Mrs. Manjula Prashar held discussions with the leaders of NFPE and FNPO on 21.05.2012. Ms. Yasodhara Menon, Member (Personnel), Sri. Salim Haque, DDG (P), Sri. V. P. Singh, DDG (Estt) and Sri. Subhash Chander, Director (SR) were also present. The staff side was represented by Com. M. Krishnan, Secretary General NFPE, Sri. T. N. Rahate, President, FNPO, Com. K. V. Sridharan, General Secretary, P3 & Leader, Staff Side Departmental Council JCM, Com. Giriraj Singh, General Secretary, R3 & Secretary, Staff Side, Com. Iswar Singh Dabas, General Secretary, P4, Com. Pranab Bhattacharjee, General Secretary, Admin. Union, Com. T. Satyanarayana, General Secretary, AIPAEA, Sri. H. N. Siddiqui, General Secretary, R4 (FNPO). Item wise discussion was held and following decisions arrived at.
1. Separate orders communicating the decision that no mail office will be closed for next three years and no dislocations of staff to places outside headquarters.
Instructions issued vide letter no. 28-8/2011-D dated 14.05.2012 (copy already given). Staff side pointed out that the meeting with Member (Operations) to discuss the issues arising out of implementation of L1, L2 has not been taken place, inspite of the clear orders given by Secretary, Posts. It is assured that the meeting with Member (O) will be arranged on 29.05.2012 after noon.
2. Orders communicating the decision about no closure/merger of post offices if no simultaneous relocation is possible.
Instructions issued vide letter No. 40-6/2011-Plg (Pt)f dated 21.02.2012. Copy of the orders will be supplied to the staff side.
3. Revision of wages to Casual labourers and absorption
At present, the draft memo placed to the Postal service Board is at the approval stage. It may require two more weeks after outcome of the decision of the Postal Services Board on the issues of revision of wages and absorption.
4. Revised recruitment Rules for Group D and Postmen as agreed upon and syllabus for Group D examination.
Clearance from DOP&T has already been received. Files bearing NOs 37 - 33 / 2009 - SPB - I concerned with the subject matter is already under submission to Ministry of Law for vetting the draft for amendment in Recruitment Rules of Postmen/MTS. On Receipt of the same from M.O Law, the RRs will be sent to Government press for necessary Gazette notification. Action for filling up the vacancies of Postmen and MTS for the year 2011 and 2012 will be taken after that.
5. Revision of cash handling norms to GDS and ensuring no reduction of TRCA under any circumstances and enhancing the Bonus ceiling to 3500/- and revise the cash allowance to BPM-at the rate of Rs. 50/- per trip instead of a month.
Protection of allowance (TRCA) and cash handling - order will be issued shortly as assured by the Minister of States, Communications. Regarding the enhancing of Bonus ceiling to Rs. 3500/- a proposal has been submitted to Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure for approval on 22.03.2011.
Regarding the issue of cash allowance to GDS for remittance of cash, the case is under process.
6. Orders revising the instructions liberalizing the powers to the Divisional heads instead of Circle heads in case of tenure posting to C and B class offices.
Orders under issue.
7. Reiteration of the earlier instructions on the grant of special pay to unqualified Accountants & counting of Special allowance for pay fixation without filing SLP against Bangalore High Court Judgement.
Regarding unqualified Accountants special allowance orders are under issue. Regarding counting of special allowance for pay fixation CPMG Karnataka Circle has been asked to file SLP, in the Apex Court on the advise of the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure.
8. Circulation of clarification given to Punjab Circle to the remaining circles also in respect of protection of pay of defunct PO & RMS Accountants.
Integrated Finance wing has sought some further inputs on the issue and action is being taken thereon.
9. Orders on forcible allotment of staff quarters to the town SOs Sub Postmasters as post attached quarters.
Instructions issued vide memo no. 18-9/2010-Bldg dtd. 10.05.2012.
10. Non supply of balance statement of NPS to the officials as on 31.03.2011
The statement of transactions (SOTs) of the subscribers of Central Govt. for the period 1.4.10 to 30.06.2011 have already been dispatched to the subscribers in the format approved by PFRDA by NSDL Mumbai vide letter dated 19.9.11. All the Directors of Accounts (Postal) have been informed about the dispatch of SOT vide letter No. 6-5/PA Book-I/NPS Procedure/2011-12/1960-89 dated 018.11.11.
The staff side reported that the required balance statement is still not circulated to the concerned. It is assured that this aspect will be examined and further action will be taken.
11. Enhancement of Financial powers of LSG, HSG II and HSG-I
This is under examination.
12. Enhancing the honorarium for invigilators engaged in departmental examinations.
Orders issued vide No. A.34020/17/2008-De dated 26.04.2012.
13. Allowing physically handicapped officials for appearing IPO Examinations.
Under active consideration in consultation with Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
14. Orders on drawal of cash handling allowance to Treasurers, Accountants irrespective of their position in the MACP.
A reference has been made to the DOPT in this regard. The argument of the staff side that it should be decided in the department itself will be considered and decided shortly.
15. Finalisation of the cadre Review proposals:
It is assured that the proposals of the committee will be finalised before 30.06.2012. The next sitting of the committee will be held on 29.05.2012 forenoon.
16. Payment of incentive instead of honorarium for attending the PLI/RPLI work at Divisional offices after decentralization.
Case has already been processed and is in pipeline.
17. Orders for repatriation of officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to CO/RO to their home divisions
All officials deputed for PLI/RPLI work to RO/CO from Divisional have been asked to be repatriated vide letter No. 30-1/2010/LI dated 27.01.2012.
18. Allowing Postmaster cadre officials to appear for IPO/PSS Group B examination.
The proposal has been examined and as observed, it does not fall in line with the existing instructions as these are two different streams and the postmaster cadre Recruitment Rules clearly says that these officials will not have any claim in the promotional channel of General line officials. The staff side insisted that postmaster cadre officials should not be deprived of the promotional chances of their counterpart in the general line against IPO/PSS Group B posts. Further they demanded that 100% of Senior Postmasters Posts should be reserved for the Postmasters cadre alone. It was agreed to have a relook into the entire issue.
19. Orders permitting postmaster cadre officials to officiate in HSG-I vacancies.
The matter has been examined. Not found feasible as per Recruitment Rules. On insistence of the staff side it is agreed to have a relook in to the matter.
20. DO letter from Member (P) to all Circles heads to fill up all posts of Sorting Postmen, Mail overseers, cash overseer and Head Postmen
Orders issued vide No. 37-4/2012-SPB-I dated 19.04.2012
21. Allowing MTS to decline promotion to postmen cadre under seniority quota without loosing MACP promotion.
Orders will be issued shortly.
22. Reiteration of the instructions for rotational transfer for SBCO staff by notifying clusture of divisions.
Orders issued vide No. 141-91/2012-SPB-II dated 02.04.2012
23. Issue instructions to all for ensuring filling up of all sanctioned LR Posts.
Orders will be issued shortly.
24. Prompt grant of child care leave – Issue instructions
Instructions reiterated vide letter No. 51-3/2011-SPB-II dated 10.05.2012.
25. Clarifications to be issued on MACP as agreed upon on the following.
(i) MACP will not be deferred on the ground of contemplated disciplinary/Vigilence proceedings.
Orders under issue.
(ii) Instructions on review of ACRs/APArs by Scrutiny committee.
Orders issued to complete the process before 30.06.2012, if not already done vide memo No. 4-7/(MACP)/2009-PCC (Part) Dt. 15.05.2012.
(iii) Recovery orders by DA(P) in the matter of pay fixation of MACP in case of MTS.
This will be sorted out early.
(iv) Cases relating to declining promotion prior to the issue of MACP orders (Prior to 2009)
Orders under issue.
26. Issuing clear instructions to all Chief PMGs that in the city areas where RO/Cos are situated decentralization of RPLI/PLI should not be done to city postal divisions, instead the work will be done by RO/CO staff as done before.
Agreed to issue detailed instructions to all Chief PMGs/PMGs in additional to the instructions already issued on 27.01.2012.
27. Issue orders on the terms finalized by the Postmen Committee and also follow up action on the certain items to be referred to work study unit.
The recommendations of the committee are under process. Orders will be issued on all the agreed items.
28. Cadre restructuring and settlement of Group – D and sorter issue relating to Postal Accounts.
Cadre restructuring proposal sent to Integrated Finance wing for their concurrence is at present with Postal Estt Branch. It is assured to expedite case.
Group D & Sorter anomaly: The information has been called for from all circle postal accounts offices. On receipt of the same the case will be examined further.
29. Follow up action on Civil Wing issues.
The R/Rules are presently pending with M/o Law & Justice. Will be notified immediately after it is cleared and further action will be taken.
30 Examination of CRC & EPF norms
Logistics Posts: Committee formed to work out the handling norms of Logistics Post has submitted its report. In view of observation of IFA(BD), DDG(Estt) has been addressed to provide extant provision for formulation of handling norms for new/existing service so that recommendations of committee can be further examined. Reply is awaited from DDG(Estt).
EPP: a Committee has been formed to work out the handling norms for EPP. The Committee has carried out preliminary exercise in its first meeting. Recommendations of the meeting are awaited.
The staff side raised the following issues also and position is explained as under:
(i) PA/SA Recruitment for 2011 and 2012- Orders issued. Time line will be fixed for calling for applications, examination etc.
(ii) Postmen, MTS posts filling – orders will be issued alter notifying the revised recruitment rules removing 25% outside recruitment in Postmen cadre and related changes in MTS RRS.
(iii) System administrators TA case – will be reexamined, Staff side may submit a detailed note.
(iv) HSG-I Recruitment Rules – Pursuing vigorously with DOPT, UPSC etc. It is in the final stage.
(v) Station tenure orders of Group – C employees – Clarificatory orders are under issue.
(vi) Revision of OTA rates – case already taken up with Finance Ministry Staff Side is requested to submit fresh proposals.
(vii) JCM standing committee minutes – Copy of Action Taken report supplied to staff side.
Subjects will be called for the next periodical meeting.
MEETING WITH HON'BLE MINISTER BY SECRETARY AIPEU GDS(NFPE)
DEPARTMENTALIZATION OF GDS - VIABLE
Com. P. Pandurangarao, General Secretary, AIPEU GDS (NFPE) presented a Memorandum to Hon’ble Minster of Communications Sri. Sachin Pilot, on 16.05.2012, demanding Departmentalization of GDS
The full contents of the memorandum is reproduced here under for the consumption of all viewers.
MEMORANDUM SUBMITTED TO HON’BLE STATE MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS
With due respects and regards, We the All India Postal Employees Union – GDS (NFPE) is submitting the following issues for your kind and sympathetic consideration and favourable decision in mitigating the genuine demands the downtrodden and poor GDS employees working in the Department of Posts.
1. DEPARTMENTALISATION OF RURAL POST OFFICES AND ALSO GRAMIN DAK SEVAKS:
The Supreme Court in its judgement delivered on 22.07.1977 held that the ED employee is not an agent, not a casual labourer, and not a part time worker but he is the holder of civil post outside the regular civil service and therefore declared that Article 311(2) of the constitution of India is attracted.Except conduct and service and application of disciplinary provisions, no other benefits available to the Departmental employees are extended to the ED employees. The question of departmentalisation of ED agents remains pending for long and is denied continuously on one pretext or the other.
In the present set up of the social - economic structure of rural areas, the daily wage for an agricultural labourer has been fixed much above the daily rate of an ED agent. Resultantly, the ED employees are not able to meet the family expenses and have one square meal a day.
The declaration of Justice Talwar that “95.70% joined the Postal Department as ED agents hoping to get full time absorption and only 4.08% took it as a side occupation is the real fact still prevailing and they are solely depending upon their wages for their livelihood”. In rural areas, still many of them are underpaid and lesser in the standard of living while comparing the NREGS beneficiaries.
With the hope of departmentalization at one day, they are prolonging their life with more expectation of their future. Their hopes can be considered by introducing various new services in the rural areas with the cooperation's of the Human resource ministry and other developmental activities.
The Post office alone has such a vast network and infrastructure and it can be fully utilized by providing various new services to rural public through post offices by its own saving bank scheme to distribute the Govt welfare measures as if we are doing under the NREGIS Scheme.
We may attempt with the following to provide more services to public as well as departmentalise all the existing BOs.
1. The works like pension payment, sale of certificates, direct booking of money orders, SB operations with maintenance of independent ledgers may be assigned to the departmentalized branch office so that the existing branch postmasters will be with entrusted more work.
2. If the proposal of full computerization of BOs is materialised in the ensuing year as proposed, there is every possibility for introducing all kinds of bill works like acceptance of Electricity bills, land revenue, panchayat taxes etc., under the business activities of the Postal department or tie up with such governmental organizations.
3. Large scale expansion of telecom can be explored through the branch offices and acceptance of all telephone bills, mobile bills may be entrusted. The Department of Posts may also consider in taking licences for running telecom services in rural areas with subsidiary rates to cater the requirement of rural public as if in vogue in many foreign countries.
4. Since all the BOs are proposed to be provided with computers and decided to introduce various new services, it is possible to maintain the following works also in the BOs very efficiently with the manpower available in abundance.
a) Collection, maintenance and modifications of any of the work related to census in rural areas.
b) Maintenance, Verification and preservation of records pertaining to the Citizens identity card issued by the Govt of India directly by the Dept of post.
c) Extension of MG NREGS work through post offices by providing work norms for the work instead of incentive as at present extended.
d) Enhance the working hours for eight hours and introduce various new works at village level with the cooperation of other Govt and public sector organizations.
e) Ensuring that all various new schemes introduced by the Govt as policies will be reached to the village level through our network spread over the nation.
It is pertinent to mention that there are more than 10% of the existing BOS having the work load for more than five hours. In accordance with Marathe time test under para 93 (iv) and para 114 (i) if a single handed post office is having 11 hours’ workload, the second PA can be augmented. On the similar analogy such BOs having more than five hours workload can be straight away departmentalized. Further whenever any vacancy arises in the GDS cadre, the duties can be merged for making the office as a departmental office. The recommendations of the Justice Talwar Committee to freeze the GDS system in order to departmentalize all the existing GDS should be given a due consideration.
In order to departmentalize the GDS, the department should consider for fixing the norms for the following works immediately.
1. Work related to NREGIS payment.
2. Work related to verification of Electrol& Election work.
3. Work related to collecting statistics for census etc.
4. Work related to verification of mobile phone connections of BSNL & others.
5. Work related to acceptance of Electricity bills, water bills & telephone bills.
6. Work related to business activities, social security schemes introduced in various circles.
If time factors for all the work performed by the GDS is formulated, certainly it will pave way for the regularization of many GDS who are actually working for more than six hours but not availed the benefits of departmentalization. We don't want any incentives or perks denying our regularization.
The Honble Minister of Communications & IT Sri Kapil Sibil has sought the department about the feasibility of regularization of all the GDS and to departmentalise all the BOs for which the department has furnished that it will cost some exorbitant amount. We sincerely place our abundant thanks and respects on record to the Minister's desire to departmentalize the GDS and his initiatives but as usual the blocks were placed without really considering the realities and the position existed at field level.
If all the GDS are departmentalized by scrapping the existing GDS system with eight hours work and each official is assigned with various new works to improve the functioning of rural post offices in order to make it more remunerative, that will overcome the financial problem. This vast infrastructure will really be an invaluable asset to the department in this era of e-commerce and e-governance and not at all a liability. If post offices are kept open for more hours by introducing more new items of work, there is every possibility of increasing the workload.
We further express our sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Minister for the positive steps being initiated by the department with regard to (i) full protection of TRCA (ii) revising the cash handling norms (iii) with drawl of 25% outside recruitment condition in Postman cadre (iv) relaxing the conditions for compassionate appointment (v) parity in bonus ceiling. We hope that positive orders will be issued in all the issues raised by us earlier.
It is humbly requested to kindly consider the above and cause action to departmentalise the rural post offices and improve the rural postal network.
Dated – 16.05.2012
Place – New Delhi
(P.PANDURANGARAO)
GENERAL SECRETARYComrade Nani Banerjee Passes Away
COM. NANI DA NO MORE
VERY SAD NEWS
OUR GREAT VETERAN LEADER OF P&T TRADE UNION MOVEMENT COM. NANI BANERJEE, AGED 82 YEARS , EX. TREASURER AND EX. DY. GENERAL SECRETARY AIPEU GROUP ‘C’ CHQ EXPIRED TODAY DATED 21ST MAY, 2012, MORNING AT KOLKATA AFTER PROLONG ILLNESS.
HE WAS VERY DEVOTED AND COMMITTED LEADER OF WORKING CLASS MOVEMENT FOR FIVE DECADES. THIS IS AN IRREPARABLE LOSS TO THE TRADE UNION MOVEMENT NFPE CONVEYS HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES AND DIPS ITS BANNER IN HIS HONOUR AND MEMORY. RED SALUTES TO COM. NANI DA.
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