December 4, 2010

DA Calculation based on the consumer price index of October 2010 (181 Points)

The All India Consumer Price Index number for (Industrial Workers) (Base 2001=100) for the month of October 2010 is 181 as announced by Statistics Department, Labour, Government of India.
Based on this index, expected increase from January 2011 is 6%.

Month All India Index % of increase
Nov 200814821.44
Dec 2008 147 22.38
Jan 200914823.39
Feb 200914824.32
Mar 200914825.12
Apr 200915025.98
May 200915126.84
Jun 200915327.78
Jul 200916029.00
Aug 200916230.23
Sep 200916331.45
Oct 200916532.67
Nov 200916834.11
Dec 200916935.70
Jan 201017237.43
Feb 201017039.01
Mar 201017040.59
Apr 201017042.03
May 201017243.54
Jun 201017445.06
Jul 201017846.35
Aug 201017847.50
Sep 201017948.66
Oct 201018149.81
Source : Labour Bureau

November 9, 2010

Eight Modernized Post Offices Dedicated to Public in Delhi Project Arrow Transforming Postal Services –Sachin Pilot

Sh. Sachin Pilot, the Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology today dedicated eight post offices to the public in Delhi under Project Arrow. Sh. Ajay Maken, the Union Minister of State for Home was also present. These Post Offices are Delhi Cantt, R.K.Puram-V, Andrewsganj, IARI (Indian Agriculture Research Institute), Patel Nagar, Bengali Market, South Avenue and S.R.T. (Swami Ram Tirth) Nagar. All the Post Offices participated in the function organized at Andrewsganj Post Office through a video link.
Sh. Pilot said that a large number of Post Offices in Delhi Postal Circle are getting transformed under Project Arrow. 36 Post Offices had already undergone complete overhaul last year. The Minister said that the latest Phase of Project Arrow would cover 19 Post Offices in Delhi, of which 8 have been dedicated today and the remaining 11 would be dedicated shortly. Besides, uniform brand hierarchy and a single window service system reducing waiting time for customers, the Post Office employees have been sensitised and imparted training in soft skills and IT (Information Technology). All the Post Offices are equipped with broad band connectivity to provide web-based services of the Department such as e-Money Order, Western Union Money Transfer, Instant Money Order, e-Post etc.
Sh. Ajay Maken thanked Sh. Pilot for the initiative. Sh. Pilot assured him that the Department of Posts would continue to upgrade postal services in Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion Chief Post Master General, Delhi Circle Ms. Rameshwari Handa said that the Project Arrow of Department of Posts is laying foundation for systematic transformation of India Post. She said Project Arrow has won Prime Minister’s award for excellence. There is focus on improving efficiencies of Mail Delivery, Remittances, Savings Bank and Office Service Level. Similarly, enhanced Branding, Technology, Human Resources and Infrastructure are being deployed to deliver better services.

Source : Press Information Bureau

October 31, 2010

DA Calculation based on Consumer Price Index for the month of September 2010

The All India Consumer Price Index number for (Industrial Workers) (Base 2001=100) for the month of Sep 2010 is 179 as announced by Statistics Department, Labour, Government of India.
Based on this index, expected increase from January 2011 is not less than 6%.

Month All India Index % of increase
Nov 200814821.44
Dec 2008 147 22.38
Jan 200914823.39
Feb 200914824.32
Mar 200914825.12
Apr 200915025.98
May 200915126.84
Jun 200915327.78
Jul 200916029.00
Aug 200916230.23
Sep 200916331.45
Oct 200916532.67
Nov 200916834.11
Dec 200916935.70
Jan 201017237.43
Feb 201017039.01
Mar 201017040.59
Apr 201017042.03
May 201017243.54
Jun 201017445.06
Jul 201017846.35
Aug 201017847.50
Sep 201017948.66
Source : Labour Bureau

October 4, 2010

India Post Celebrates the Spirit of the XIX Commonwealth Games

Third Set of Stamps on Tennis, Archery, Hockey and Athletics Released

India Post today released third set of stamps at CWG Village Post Office to commemorate the event that inaugurates today. India Post celebrates the spirit of the XIX Commonwealth Games by issuing a set of four stamps (of Rs. 5/- each) on Tennis, Archery, Hockey and Athletics. The set was formally released by Ms. Rameshwari Handa Chief Postmaster General, Delhi Circle, in the presence of Lt. General (Retd.) Ashok Kapur ADG (Games Village) and other senior officers of India Post.


The 19th Commonwealth games 2010, are being organized in Delhi between 3rd October and 14th October 2010. It is going to be the largest sport event in Delhi after the Asian Games in 1951 and 1982. It is also for the first time that the Commonwealth Games are being held in India. To commemorate this sporting extravaganza India Post has already issued two sets of stamps on Themes: One set on the Queen’s baton Relay and a second on the Jawaharlal Nehru and Talkatora Stadia.


As the commemorative stamps are printed in very limited quantity, for this issue only 4 lakh stamps have been printed. The stamp and First Day Cover have been designed by Sh. Sankha Samant.


Source : Press Information Bureau

Department of Posts Sets up two Post Offices for Commonwealth Games

Department Of Posts has established two Post Offices i.e. CWG Village and Main Press Centre, Pragati Maiden to cater to the athletes, delegates, visitors and media persons. These Post Offices are providing very affordable postal and logistics facilities to its customers in a very friendly environment. The Philatelic Sales Counters of these Post Offices are a major hit as a range of beautiful designed stamps (featuring the flora and fauna, sports, art & culture, famous personalities etc.), Philatelic Books and Special Covers are available for sale. On 30.9.2010, the Delhi Postal Circle has issued one Special Cover to commemorate the arrival Of Queen’s Baton in Delhi and very soon two picture post cards will also be issued by Department Of Posts on Commonwealth Games 2010.


Source : Press Information Bureau

September 22, 2010

Grant of Permission for treatment in any of the hospitals - Department circulated Ministry of Health and Family Welfare OM dated 28.3.2000

Copy of Directorate letter No 6-1/2006-Medical dated 14.9.2010 addressed to all Unions/Associations.

Sub : Hospitals recognized by the State Govts./CGHS/CS(MA) Rules, 1944 - Grant of permission for treatment in any of the hospitals.

Sir,

     I am directed to forward herewith a copy of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi OM No S-14025/7/2000-MS dated 28-3-2000 on the above subject for your informatin/guidelines and necessary action.

Copy of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi OM No S-14025/7/2000-MS dated 28-3-2000

Sub : Hospitals recognised by the State govts./CGHS/CS(MA) Rules, 1964 - Grant of permission for treatment in any of the hospitals - regarding

     The undersigned is directed to say that the issue of grant of permission for treatment of Central Govt. Employees and the members of their family in any of the hospitals recognized by the State Govt./CGHS Rules/CS(MA) rules, 1944, had been under consideration of the Govt. for some time past.  It has now been decided that the Central Govt. employees and the members of their families may be permitted to avail of medical facilities in any of the Central Govt. State Govts. hospitals and the hospitals recognized by the State govt. /CGHS Rules/ CS(MA) Rules, 1944, as well as the hospitals fully funded by either Central Govt. or the State Govt. subject to the condition that they will be reimbursed the medical expenditure at the rates fixed by the Govt. under the CGHS Rules/CS(MA) Rules, 1964 or the actual expenditure incurred, whichever is less.  In other words, the permission can be granted by the Head of Ministry/Department/Office to the Central Govt. employees/members of their families to obtain medical services from any of the private hospitals recognized under CGHS in the 18 CGHS covered cities also.

2.    If the treatment for a particular disease/procedure is available in the same city where the Govt. servant is employed, he may be permitted to avail of the medical services in any other city of his choice but in such cases, he will not be eligible for sanction of TA/DA.  In case the treatment for a particular disease/procedure is not available at the same station, the beneficiary will be eligible for sanction of TA of his entitled class for taking treatment in a different city.

3.    These orders will be effective from the date of issue.

September 21, 2010

Identification of sensitive posts in Department of Posts - reg

Copy of Department of Posts letter No 4-7/2009-Vig dated 13.9.2010 addressed to all Circles and others

Sub : Identification of sensitive posts in Department of Posts - Reg

Sir/Madam,

      In compliance with CVC circular No 17/4/08 issued vide No 004/VGL/90 dated 1st May 2008, it has been decided with the approval of Secretary (Posts) to identify certain posts, mentioned hereunder, of the Department of Posts, as sensitive/non-sensitive, in supersession of any order/communications issued by the Vigilance Division of this Department in this regard.
(Circles, Regions and Divs)

Sensitive Non-sensitive
(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
1. All Group 'A' posts except as mentioned in col (iv) 1. PMG(BD)
Director (BD)
2. All Group 'B' and 'C' officers dealing with Vigilance,
Staff, Building and Procurement in the Circle HQ, Region HQs and Postal
Training Centres/College.
2. All Group 'B' and 'C' officers except as mentioned in Col
(ii). for example - Dy SPOs, Postmaster, Supdt CSD, AD(Plg), AD(Est),
AD(Mails), AD(PG), AD(PO).
(Directorate)
Sensitive Non-Sensitive
(i) (ii) (iii) (iv)
1. All Group 'B' and 'C' posts of Administration, General
Administration, C&A, Building, DE, Financial Advice, IR, Philately,
Technology, Vigilance and Vigilance Petition
1. All Group B and C posts of Directorate except as mentioned
in col. (ii).
2. All Group A posts upto the level of DDG and officers
subordinate to them except DDG(PG) and DDG (PO)
2. DDG (PG), DDG (PO) and Group 'A' officers subordinate to
DDG(PG) and DDG(PO)

September 20, 2010

Guidelines on Air Travel on Tours/LTC - Clarifications with regard to purchase of Air Tickets through auhorised agents for travel by Airlines other than Indian Airlines.

Copy of OM No 19024/1/2009-E-IV dated 16.9.2010 of Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.

Sub : Guidlines on Air Travel on Tours/LTC.

        This Department is receiving repeated references seeking clarifications with regard to purchase of Air tickets through authorised agents and relaxation for travel by airlines other than Indian Airlines.  The following guidelines may be noted for compliance :

1. On official Tours :
(i) For travel by Airlines other than Air India because of operational or other reasons or on account of non-availability of Air India flights, individual cases for relaxation to be referred to M/o Civil Aviation, as stated in this Ministry's OM No 19024/1/2009-E.IV dated 13.07.09.

(ii) Air Tickets may be purchased directly from Airlines (at Booking counters/website of Airlines) or by utilizing the services of Authorised Travel Agents viz M/S Balmer Lawrie & Company, M/S Ashok Travel & Tours.

2.  LTC
(i)  Travel by Air India only.
(ii) In Economy class only, irrespective of entitlement
(iii) LTC-80 ticket of Air India only to be purchased
(iv) Air Tickets may be purchased directly from Airlines (at Booking counters/website of Airlines) or by utilizing the services of Authorised Travel Agents viz M/S Balmer Lawrie & Company, M/S Ashok Travel & Tours and IRCC (to the extent IRCTC is authorised as per DoP&T OM No 31011/6/2002-Estt(A) dated 02.12.09).

3.  LTC for J&K
(i)  Relexation to travel by Private Airlines to visit J&K while availing LTC is available for all the categories of Govt. employees, including those entitled to travel by Air [DoP&T OMs No 31011/2/2003-Estt(A-IV) dated 18.6.10 and 05.08.10 refer].
(ii) For purchase of Air tickets, however, the procedure as given under para 2(iv) above should be followed.

4.  All Ministries/Departments of Govt. of India are requested to strictly adhere to these instructions.





September 15, 2010

Implementation of MACPS - Instructions on Benchmark regarding.

Copy of Department of Posts (Pay Commission Cell) letter No 4-7(MACPS)/2009-PC dated 1.9.2010 addressed to all Chief PMsG, PMsG etc published in the NFPE website is reproduced below for information of all:-

Sub : Implementation of Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) - Instructions on Bench mark regarding

Sir/Madam,

I am directed to refer to Directorate letter No 4-7(MACPS)/2009-PCC dated 18-09-2009 wherein detailed guidelines on implementation of MACPS were communicated.

2.  Para No 17 of annexure-I to the said letter provides that "the financial upgradation would be on nun-functinal basis, subject to fitness in the hierarchy of Grade Pay within the PB-1.  Thereafter for upgradation under MACPS,  the benchmarks of 'Good' would be applicable till the GP of Rs 6600 in PB-3.  The benchmark will be 'Very Good' for financial upgradation to GP of Rs 7600 and above".

3.  The MACPS has been given effect to from 01-09-2008 and the earlier schemes of TBOP and BCR was dispensed with.  Many references have since been received in the Directorate that some officials are not getting the benefit of MACPS since the CRs are not written keeping in view, the prescribed benchmark and there had been no such prescribed benchmarks for considering the cases for financial upgradation under TBOP/BCR schemes.

4.  The matter was taken up with Nodal Ministry, i.e Department of Personnel and Training for relaxation of the 'benchmark' standard.  The Nodal Departmental has clarified that the recruitment of fulfillment of prescribed benchmark would be mandatory as mentioned in para 17 of ibid Annexure-I.

5.  In view of the clarification given by the Nodal Ministry, the benchmarks prescribed by the DOPT need to be scrupulously adhered to and financial upgradations under MACPS are to be considered on the basis of of performance of the officials after considering their CRs for five (5) years.

6.  The matter regarding proper grading of ACR's for the purpose of conferment of financial upgradations under MACPS has, therefore, been examined and the Competent authority has ordered to constitute Scrutiny committee at Divisional level for scrutinizing the CRs of Postman, PAs/SAs for the preceding 5 years on the basis of the entries made by the Reporting officer and to grade the performance as 'Average', 'Good' and 'Very Good', etc.  The composition of the Scrutiny Committee is as below:-

1.  Postal/RMS Divisions/Gazetted Class I HOs in charge of Chief Postmasters

1. Head of Postal/RMS Division/Chief postmaster Chairman
2. Senior PM/Divisional Head of neighbouring Postal/RMS
Division/Deputy CPM/Dy SRM
Member
3. ASP(HQs) or Sub division Member
Note : For the Staff working in Training Centres, the scrutiny Committee of Postal division in which training center is located will evaluate and award gradings. For the clerical staff working in PSD/CSD also, the Scrutiny Committee of the concerned Postal Divisions will review and give gradings.

2. Mail Motor Service
1. Sr. Manager/Manager MMS Chairman
2. Divisional Head of neighbouring Postal/RMS
Division. If not available, any AD from CO/RO/Training Centre
Member
3. Assistant Superintendent of Post offices of neighbouring div. Member


3.  Clerical Staff at Circle/Regional Office/RLO

1. APMG or AD of CO dealing with Staff matters Chairman
2. Another AD of CO/Training Centre/neighbouring division Member
3. Assistant Superintendent of Post offices of CO Member

4.  Mumbai/Kolkatta/New Delhi GPOs
1. Deputy/Assistant Director GPO Chairman
2. Divisional Head of neighbouring Division/Asst director of GPO/AD of CO Member
3. Assistant Superintendent of Post offices GPO or from neighbouring div. Member

7. The findings of the Committee to be placed before the concerned Director of Postal Services/Postmaster General, who will be accepting authoriting. The constitution of Scrutiny Committee for grading he performance is a one time exercise only which would help to expedite and faciliate the work of the Screening Committee.

8. The Heads of Circles/Postmasters General are requested for forming the Scrutiny committees in each unit under their jurisdiction and direct the Committees for completion of the exercise of grading the performance of the officials within a period of one month and thereafter the Screening committees may be convened as prescribed under the MACPS for consideration of their cases, who will decide the cases as per the grading arrived at by the Scrutiny Committee and also in terms of the instructions outlilined in Para 18 of Annexure I to this Department OM of even number dated 18.9.2009.

9. All the reporting officers in the Circles may also be instructed for writing the future APARs (CRs) as per the new system of Numerical Grading.

10. This issues with the approval of Secretary (Posts).

September 13, 2010

Clarifications on MACPS issued by Department of personnel training on 9.9.2010

The following clarifications have been issued by Department of Personnel and Training vide Memo No 35034/3/2008-Estt (D) dated 9.9.2010:-

1

Whether the Pay Band would change in the hierarchy of Pay
Bands & Grade Pay on grant of the benefits under MACPS'


Yes. The upgradations under MACP is to be granted in the
next  grade pay in the hierarchy of recommended revised pay band and
grade pay as prescribed in the CCS (RP) Rules, 2008

2

Whether the benefits of MACPS would be allowed to the
Government servants who have been later on inducted in the Organized Group
"A" Service


No. The benefits under MACPS is not applicable to Group
'A' officer of Organized Group 'A' Services, as the
officer under Organized Group 'A' Services have already been. allowed parity
of two years on nonfunctional basis with the officers of Indian
Administrative Service (IAS)

3

How will the benefits of ACP be granted if due between
01.01.2006  and 31 08.2008?


 


The new MACPS has come into existence w e f 01.09.2008
However, the  pay structure has been changed w e f 01.01.2006. 
Therefore the previous ACPS would be applicable in the new pay structure
adopted w e f 01.01.2006. Para 6.1 of Annexure-l of MACPS is only for
exercising option for coming over to the revised pay
structure and not for grant of benefits under MACPS.
The following
illustrations would explain the position


(A) In the case of isolated post:


Date of appointment in entry Grade in the pre-revised pay
scale of Rs.4000-6000: 01.10.1982


1st ACP granted on 09.08.1999 :Rs.4500-7000 (pre-revised)


2nd ACP due on 01.10.2006 :Rs.5000-8000 (pre-revised)
[revised PB-2 Grade Pay of Rs.4200]


3rd financial upgradation under the MACPS would be due on
01.102012 (on completion of30 years of continuous regular service) in the
immediate next higher grade pay in the hierarchy of recommended revised pay
band and grade pay i e Grade Pay of Rs 4600 in PB 2.


(B) In the case of normal promotional hierarchy:


Date of appointment in entry Grade in the prerevised pay
scale of Rs.5500-9000: 01.10.1982


1st ACP granted on 09.08.1999 :Rs.6500-10500
(pre-revised)

 2nd ACP due on 01.10.2006 (as
per the existing hierarchy) :Rs.10000-15200
(pre-revised).

Therefore, 2nd ACP would be in PB-3 with Grade Pay of
Rs.6600 (in terms of hierarchy available):

3rd financial
upgradation under MACPS would be due on 01.10.2012 in the immediate next
higher grade pay in the hierarchy of recommended revised pay band and grade
pay of Rs.7600.

4

Whether the benefits of MACPS would be granted from the date
of entry grade or from the date of the regular service approved service
counted under various service rules.


The benefits under MACPS would be
available  from the date of actual joining of the post
in the entry grade


 

5

In a case where a person is appointed to an ex-cadre post in
higher scale on deputation followed by absorption, whether the period spent
on deputation period would be counted as continuous service in the grade or
not for the purpose of MACPS


(i) Where a person is appointed on direct
recruitment/deputation basis from another post in the same grade, then past
regular service as well as past promotions/ACP, in the earlier post, will be
counted for computing regular service for the purpose of MACPS in the new
hierarchy.

(ii) However, where a person is appointed to an 
ex-cadre post in higher scale initially on deputation followed by
absorption, while the service rendered in the earlier post, which was in a
lower scale cannot be counted, there is no objection to the period spent
initially on deputation in the ex-cadre post prior to absorption being
counted towards regular service for the purposes of grant of financial
upgradation under MACPS, as it is in the same Pay band/grade
pay of the post

6 Whether the pay scale/grade pay of substantive post would be
taken into account for appointment/selection to a higher post on deputation
basis or the pay scale/grade pay carrying by a Government servant on account
of financial upgradation(s) under ACP/MACP Scheme.
The pay scale/grade pay
of substantive post would only be taken into account for deciding the
eligibility for appointment/selection to a higher post on deputation basis.
7 In a case where 1st/2nd financial upgradations are postponed
on account of the employees not found fit or due to departmental
proceedings, etc, whether this would have consequential effect on 2nd /3rd
financial upgradation or not.
Yes. If a financial upgradation has been deferred/postponed
on account of the employee not found fit or due to departmental proceedings,
etc., the 2nd /3rd financial upgradations under MACPs would have
consequential effect. (Para 18 of annexure-I of MACPS referred).
8 In a case where the government servant have already earned
three promotions and still stagnated in one grade for more than 10 years,
whether he would be entitle for any further upgradation under MACPS
No. Since the government servant has already earned three
promotions, he would not be entitled for any further financial upgradation
under MACPS.
9 Whether the pre-revised pay scale of Rs 2750-4400 in respect
of Group D non-matriculate employees, would also be taken as merged to grade
pay of Rs 1800 for the purpose of MACPS in view of merger of Rs 2550-3200,
Rs 2610-3540, Rs 2610-4000 and Rs 2650-4000, which have been upgraded and
replaced by the revised pay structure of grade pay of Rs 1800 in the pay
band PB-1
Yes.
10 If a government servant on deputation earns upgradation
under MACPs in the present cadre, whether he would be entitled for
deputation (duty) allowance on the pay and emoluments granted under the
MACPS or not?
No. while eligibility of an employee for appointment
against ex-cadre posts, in terms of the provisions of the RRs of the
ex-cadre post will continue to be determined with reference to the post/pay
scale of the post held in the parent cadre on regular basis (and not with
reference to the higher scale granted under ACPS/MACPS). such an officer, in
the event of his selection, may be allowed to opt to draw the pay in the
higher scale under ACP/MACP Scheme without deputation allowance during the
period of deputation, if it is more beneficial than the normal entitlements
under the existing general order regulating pay on appointment on deputation
basis.
11 Since the pay scales of Group D employees have been merged
and placed in the Grade Pay of rs 1800, whether they are entitled for grant
of increment @ 3% during pay fixation at every stage.
Yes. On the analogy of point 22 of Annexure-I of MACPS, the
pay of such Group 'D' employees who have been placed in the Grade Pay of Rs
1800 w.e.f. 01.01.2006 shall be fixed successively in the next three
immediate higher grade pays in the hierarchy of revised pay-bands and grade
pays allowing the benefit of 3% pay fixation at every stage.

Child Care Leave in respect of Central Government employees as a result of Sixth Central Pay Commission recommendations - Clarification regarding

Department of Personnel & Training Memo No No. 13018 /1/2010-Estt. (Leave) dated 7.9.2010 on the above subject is reproduced below:-

The undersigned is directed to say that this Department has been receiving representations from Government Servants through various quarters like the Public Grievances Cell/Associations etc requesting to review the decision to allow Child Care Leave (CCL) only if the employee has no E.L. at her credit.

2. This Department's O.M. No.13018/2/2008-Estt.(L) dated 11/09/2008 regarding introduction of Child Care Leave in respect of Central Government employees and subsequent clarifications vide O.Ms. dated 29/9/2008, 1811 112008 and 2/12/2008 were reviewed. It has now been decided in consultation with Department of Expenditure, to delete the condition that CCL can be availed only if the employee concerned has no Earned Leave at her credit, subject to the following conditions:-

(i) CCL may not be granted in more than 3 spells in a calendar year.

(ii) CCL may not be granted for less than 15 days.

(iii) CCL should not ordinarily be granted during the probation period except in case of certain extreme situations where the leave sanctioning authority is fully satisfied about the need of Child Care Leave to the probationer. It may also be ensured that the period for which this leave is sanctioned during probation is minimal.

3. It is reiterated that the leave is to be treated like Earned Leave and sanctioned as such.

These orders take effect from 1.9.2008. Earned Leave, if any, availed by women employees before availing CCL subsequent to the issue of the OM 13018/2/2008-Estt. (L) dated 18- 1 1-2008 may be adjusted against CCL, if so requested by the employee.

September 8, 2010

Department introduced new SERVICE DISCHARGE BENEFIT SCHEME(SDBS) for GDS

Department of Post has introduced a new SERVICE DISCHARGE BENEFIT SCHEME (SDBS) for the Gramin Dak Sevaks vide Establishment Division Memo No 6/11/2009-PE-II dated 1.9.2010 .

Saliant  features of the scheme are as under:-

1.  This scheme is in lieu of existing Severance Amount Scheme on an optional basis.  Mandatory for the new Gramin Dak Sevaks entering into the service with effect from 1.1.2011.

2.  For existing GDS opted for the SDBS till the date of their joining, @ Rs 1500/- for every completed years of service will be added to the accumulated contributions at the time of discharge for annuitization.

3.  Department shall contribute @ Rs 200 per month for each enrolled GDS.  GDS shall not be required to make any contribution from their side.  The contributions made by the Department shall be credited to the Trustee Bank designated by the Pension Fund Regulatory & Development Authority (PFRDA) and invested through Pension Fund Managers (PFMs) designated by the PFRDA.

4.  If the GDS is placed under POD or unauthorizedly absent, no contribution shall be made by the Department.

5.  If the GDS is absorbed in the Department in any regular Departmental posts, shall have to quit the SDBS and to seek transfer of the accrued accumulations to New Pension Scheme (NPS).

6. If a GDS wishes to exit after attaining the age of 58 years, he can withdraw 20% of the accumulations and has to invest 80% of accumulations for purchase of Life annuity from any of the Life Insurance Company authorised by IRDA.  The Department shall not make further contributions once he exists from SDBS.

7. At the time of discharge, GDS would be required to invest a minimum 40% of accumulations to purchase Life Annuity from any of the authorised Life Insurance Company duly approved by IRDA.  The remaining amount i.e 60% can be withdrawn.

For other details visit India Post Website.

August 31, 2010

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the IT Modernization Project - Handheld devices will be provided to all the Grameen Dak Sevak (GDS) Post Offices

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the IT Modernization Project – Phase-II proposal of the Department of Posts. The decision is to computerize all the Departmental and Grameen Dak Sevak (GDS) posts offices in the country. The approval has also been accorded for creation of IT infrastructure including establishment of Data Centre, Networking of the Departmental post offices, development of scalable, integrated and modular software for all the operations of the Department of Posts. The Project will be implemented over a three year period covering 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13.

The total expenditure involved in this project will be Rs.1877.20 crore and it will cover all the Post Offices throughout the country in all the State and Union Territories. The Department of Posts will be floating tenders for procurement of hardware and development of software. Pilots will be held in rural and urban post offices. The final roll out will be completed by September 2012.

Handheld devices will be provided to all the Grameen Dak Sevak (GDS) Post Offices in the rural areas and necessary software application developed. Banking solution will be implemented for the Post Office Savings Bank (POSB) scheme. Software Integration solutions will be developed for mail operations enabling tracking solutions for all registered and Speed Post articles.

The Postal Life Insurance services will be available in all the Post Offices including rural pot offices in the country through computers and rural ICT devices. Comprehensive training will be given to staff in Customer relations, application, IT management and system training skills.

Background: The Post Office presently handles 654 crore pieces of mail annually. POSB has a corpus fund of Rs.5,63,000 crore. Significant trends like liberalization and globalization; urbanization, increased demand for financial services, increased funding by government for weaker sections and rural sector, make it imperative that India Post develop new processes and supporting technology.
Source : Press Information Bureau

August 28, 2010

PLI/RPLI premium can be paid anywhere in the Country without transfer of the policy file.

As per the existing provisions, PLI premium can be paid at any Post offices in the Circle from which the Postal Life Insurance policy was procured.  RPLI premium can be paid only at the post offices from where the policy was procured.  However there was provision to make payment of premium in Post offices in other Circles  in the case of PLI and in other post offices in the case of RPLI only after transfer of policy which is a cumbersome process and time consuming.  (The file concerned should be transferred to the Circle in case of PLI or Region in the case of RPLI. The insurant will be informed about the transfer and the insurant should show the letter of transfer to the new post office for accepting the premium.  Then only, the premium will be accepted).

Now PLI Directorate has permitted  all the computerised post offices in the Country to accept PLI or RPLI premium without transfer of policy.  It is a welcome issue.  There will be remarkable decrease in the  paper work and the insurants will be benefited.

However, the counter PAs should collect the premium with proper care to enter correct  policy number without mistake as there will be no online validation of the policy number.  In case, the policy number is  entered incorrect, the premium will still be accepted by the system, but will be kept as 'Unposted'. 

Use of Biometric Identification System for TPDS

Some States/Union Territories (UTs) such as Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, Delhi and Chandigarh have taken up implementation of Biometric Identification System for Targetted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
Central Government has approved implementation of a pilot scheme on Smart Card based delivery of essential commodities under Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) in Chandigarh Union Territory (UT) and State of Haryana. Under the scheme, the existing ration cards will be replaced by Smart Cards which will have biometric features (fingerprints) of adult members of beneficiary families, based on which verification of genuineness of the beneficiary family will take place and only thereafter the essential commodities will be issued to them from the fair price shops. After implementation of the scheme in pilot States, it will be evaluated so as to assess the cost benefits, suitability of technology and the feasibility of replicability in other States/UTs.

Government of Kerala has recently submitted a proposal for Central financial assistance for implementation of Biometric Identification based Integrated Public Distribution System. After the evaluation of the pilot scheme, it will be considered to be rolled out in other States/UTs, including the State of Kerala.

This information was given by Prof. K.V. Thomas, Minister of State for Agriculture, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, in written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today.

Source : PIB

August 23, 2010

Postal dept introduces special Rakhi envelopes


LUDHIANA: To ensure timely delivery of Rakhis, the postal department is making a special arrangements, including Rakhi envelopes to separate letter boxes, in order to tackle the rush.
Made of durable and water-proof material, Rakhi envelopes, available in size 11 cm x 22 cm, are available at five post offices in the city. But they are light enough to keep the mail within the basic weight limit as far as possible.

Available in attractive designs pre-gummed with a peel-off strip mechanism for easy sealing, these envelopes are available at a price of Rs 10 each and customer has to use extra stamps along with this envelope as per weight.
Sources said to ensure the speedy delivery, the circle had made special arrangements for collection of the envelopes through postmen, through special letterboxes at important post offices. While special arrangement for sorting and transmission had been also made by engaging extra staff. These post offices had been placed at Miller Ganj post office, head post office, Focal Point post office and Central post office.

Senior superintendent JR Nur said that the envelopes were being introduced with the motive to identify the Rakhi envelopes with the normal mails so that Rakhis could be delivered safely and on time.

Courtesy : Times of India Ludhiyana

August 14, 2010

Reservation in Promotion - Treatment of SC/ST candidates promoted on their own merit

Government of India Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training Memo No No.3601214512005-Estt. (Res.)
dated the 10th August 2010.

Subject: Reservation in promotion - Treatment of SCIST candidates
promoted on their own merit.


The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department's
O.M.No.36028/17/2001-Est(Res) dated l1th July 2002 which clarified
that SCI ST candidates appointed by promotion on their own merit and not
owing to reservation or relaxation of qualifications will be adjusted against un-reserved points of the reservation roster and not against reserved points.

It was subsequently clarified by this Department's O.M. No.3602811712001-
Estt. (Res.) dated 31.1.2005 that the above referred O.M. took effect from
11.7.2002 and that concept of own merit did not apply to the promotions
made by non-selection method.

2. Central Administration Tribunal, Madras Bench in O.A. No.900/2005
[S. Kalugasalamoorthy vls. Union of India & Others] has set aside the O.M.
No.36028/17/2001-Estt. (Kes.) dated 31.1.2005 and held that when a person
is selected on the basis of his own seniority. the scope of considering and
counting him against quota reserved for SCs does not arise. The High
Court of judicature at Madras in the matter of UOI vls.
S. Kalugasalamoorthy [ WP No.15926/2007 ] has upheld the decision of the
Central Administrative Tribunal.

3. The matter has been examined in the light of the above referred
judgments and it has been decided to withdraw O.M. No. 36028/17/2001-
Estt. (Res.) dated 31.1.2005 referred to above. It is clarified that SCIST
candidates appointed by promotion on their own merit and seniority and not
owing to reservation or relaxation of qualifications will be adjusted against unreserved points of reservation roster. irresnective of the fact whether the promotion is made by selection method or non-selection method.

These orders will take effect from 2.7.1997. the date on which post based
reservation was introduced.
4. These instructions may be brought lo the notice of all concerned
(K.G. Verma )
Director
Tele: 230921 58.
Department of Personnel and Training Memo dated 10.8.2010

August 13, 2010

The IT Project Phase-II is expected to be completed by September 2012

[ The Government proposes to modernize and upgrade all the post offices across the country. In the Eleventh Five Year Plan, the Department of Telecommunications has an approved project for Computerization & Networking of post offices (upto double handed level). Under this project 12604 post offices have been computerized and the process for computerization of the rest of the double handed post offices and networking them is under progress.

The Department has proposed its IT Project Phase-II with an overall outlay of Rs.1877.2 crores to be incurred in the FY 2010-11, 2011-12 and 2012-13 (upto September 2012). The project envisages building up of a comprehensive IT solution for all the operations in a Post Office, Postal, Banking, Insurance, Retail operations and the required infrastructure for the computerization and networking of all the post offices in the country.

The Department has also launched Project Arrow in identified post offices for upgrading the “core operational areas and “look and feel” of Post Offices for modernisation of Post Offices in the country. So far 1,000 Post Offices from 22 Postal Circles have been upgraded and modernised under the scheme. Another 510 post offices across the country are being covered in 2010-11.

330.47 crores has been utilized for computerization of 12604 post offices and funds to the extent of Rs. 146 crores has been utilised for covering post offices under Project Arrow. During 2010-11 Rs. 84 crores has been earmarked for Project Arrow, in mostly rural and semi-urban areas. Total outlay proposed for Department’s IT project Phase-II is Rs. 1877.2 Crores. Rural ICT solution is proposed for electronically linking of all rural post offices under the project proposal. The solution would provide for supply of appropriate rural ICT devices, rural connectivity & applications to rural population for services including postal, saving bank, postal life insurance and other related operations including MGNREGA wage distribution.

The IT Project Phase-II is expected to be completed by September 2012. Subject to availability of Plan Funds, departmental post offices will be covered under Project Arrow in a phased manner.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications & Information Technology, Shri Sachin Pilot in written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.
Source : Press Information Bureau

Opening of “Zero deposit/Zero Balance” accounts for OAP under Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme with effect from 13 Oct 2009

The rate of interest payable in Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) accounts in post offices is 8 per cent per annum and Bonus at the rate of 5 per cent is also payable on the deposits made under this scheme on or after 8th December, 2007 upon maturity of the deposit.

The interest rates on small savings schemes are regulated/reviewed as per recommendations of Committee on Administered Interest Rates and other related issues chaired by Dr. Y.V.Reddy, the then Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India(RBI) , according to which, being administered interest rates, they are benchmarked to average annual yield on Government Securities of comparable maturity in the secondary market, with a suitable spread subject to a maximum of 50 basis point over the benchmark yield, depending upon the maturity and liquidity of the instruments.

Bonus at the rate of 5 percent of the amount deposited in MIS accounts is payable in the accounts opened on or after 8th December, 2007 upon maturity of the deposit.

The Central and State Governments take various measures from time to time to promote and popularize small saving schemes through print and electronic media as well as holding seminars, meetings and providing training to various agencies involved in mobilizing deposits under the schemes.

As part of this ongoing exercise, Government has taken following steps to make the small savings schemes more attractive and investor friendly:-

The benefit of Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 has been extended to the investments made under 5-Year Post Office Time Deposits Account and Senior Citizens Savings Scheme, with effect from 01.04.2007.

With effect from 1.8.2007, the maximum deposit ceilings of Rs.3.00 lakh and Rs.6.00 lakh under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) Scheme has been raised to Rs.4.50 lakh and Rs.9.00 lakh in respect of single and joint accounts respectively.

The penalty on pre-mature withdrawal of deposits under the Post Office Monthly Income Account (POMIA) scheme has been rationalized from 3.5% to 2% on withdrawal on or before expiry of three years and 1% on withdrawal after expiry of three years.

All categories of pensioners have been allowed to open and maintain ‘Pension Account’ under Post Office Savings Account Rules, with effect from 11th July, 2007.

The restriction on opening of more than one account during a calendar month under the Senior Citizens Savings Scheme has been removed with effect from 24th May, 2007.

Opening of “Zero deposit/Zero Balance” accounts for workers employed under NREG Act, under Post Office Savings Account Rules, with effect from 26th August 2008.

Opening of “Zero deposit/Zero Balance” accounts for Old Age Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension Scheme, Widows Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme and Disabled Pensioner Account under Indira Gandhi National Disabled Pension Scheme with effect from 13th October 2009.

National Savings Institute, a subordinate organization under the Department of Economic Affairs (Budget Division) also maintains its web site i.e nsiindia.gov.in in collaboration with National Informatics Centre to facilitate interface with the public through wider dissemination of information on small savings and on-line registration and settlement of investor’s grievances.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Communications & Information Technology, Shri Gurudas Kamat in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

Source: Press Information Bureau

August 8, 2010

Reduction of staff under TBOP/BCR schemes stands withdrawn w.e.f 01.09.2008 consequent upon implementation of MACP

Copy of letter No. 25-5/2010-PE.I dated 19.07.2010 of Department of Posts:-
Sub: - Reduction of staff under TBOP/BCR schemes stands withdrawn w.e.f 01.09.2008 consequent upon implementation of MACP.

The undersigned is directed clarify the position in respect of reduction of staff under TBOP/BCR schemes w.e.f 01.09.2008 during periodical Establishment Reviews consequent upon implementation of MACP and withdrawal of TBOP/BCR Schemes as under:
“Consequent on implementation of time Bound One Promotion (TBOP) Scheme and Biennial Cadre Review (BCR) Scheme, Department of Posts had imposed cuts of 5% in operative staff and 15% in supervisory staff w.e.f 30.11.1983 under TBOP Scheme and later on, additional cuts of 1% in operative staff and 5% in supervisory staff were introduced w.e.f. 01.10.1991 under BCR Scheme. These cuts were introduced as measure of matching savings to offset the financial implications on account of grant of financial upgradations to staff and for obtaining additional productivity. The number of posts reduced under this matching savings/productivity provisions were kept in view at the time of periodical reviews or establishment of augmentation proposals

The said TBOP and BCR Schemes have now been withdrawn w.e.f 01.09.20087 consequent upon implementation of Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACP). Consequently, the number of operative/supervisory posts existing as on 01.09.2008 will be taken into consideration for the purpose of periodical reviews or augmentation proposals of Post Offices establishment. Thus, provisions relating to reduction of staff under TBOP/BCR Schemes stand also withdrawn w.e.f 01.09.2008.”

This issues with the approval of Secretary (P)
Sd/-
(Raj Kumar)
Director (Estt. & DE)

August 3, 2010

Govt may bank on post offices for financial inclusion - Economic Times

NEW DELHI: The neighbourhood post office may soon become a full-fledged bank as the government could facilitate a bank licence for India Post as  part of a multi-pronged strategy to achieve greater financial inclusion.
The Reserve Bank of India is expected to soon come out with draft guidelines on licences to new banks.

“India Post is a strong contender for banking license given its spread across the country,” said a finance ministry official.
The postal department already works as a quasi bank, providing a host of savings products, postal life insurance, pension payments and money transfer services through its 1.55 lakh branches, more than any other bank.
It, however, does not provide credit, the most important bit of financial inclusion. A banking licence will help fill that gap enabling the delivery of modern banking facilities in areas lacking access to financial products, credit and savings.
The department is expected to soon seek the required clearances from the Postal Services Board to expedite the process.
The Department of Post has already hired international consultancy firm Accenture to modernise the post offices across the country, which will also help create infrastructure for banking services.
“Once the infrastructure in place, we will able to assess if we need to rope in another player or not and accordingly get clearances from the RBI,” said an official with the Department of Post, adding that a Cabinet approval will also be required before commencing operations.
The idea of the Department of Post evolving into a bank has been around for a while. In 2006, India Post had even decided to appoint consultants to chalk out a regime for the transformation.
“There was a proposal to set up a bank with an initial capital of Rs 1,000 crore. The bank was to be set up as a subsidiary with the postal department holding a 51% stake in it,” said the finance ministry official.
More recently, the idea of a banking licence for India post was discussed in the inter-ministerial committee for financial inclusion, said an official of the Postal Services Board adding that the organisation was keen to provide banking services.
It is already working on core banking solution (CBS) for nearly 4,000 of its branches, which will allow customers to operate their accounts from any of the networked branches. The department has provided for Rs 106 crore towards development of CBS software.
Both the government and RBI have indicated that financial inclusion will be major criteria for giving new banking licences. “The final decision on granting a new licence will be taken by RBI. It will be a consultative decision as India Post is a government arm,” the official said.
A government committee on financial inclusion had also recommended that “India Post, with its ubiquitous reach should actively position itself to offer a low-cost, light-weight bank account to anyone enrolling for a Unique Identity Number.”
As per the committee report, nearly 16 crore people use India Post to save Rs 3,23,781 crore as on March 31, 2007. Out of this, deposits in savings bank account alone is Rs 16,789 crore, which makes a strong case for India Post to deepen the level of financial transactions and offer banking services to the rural population.

The Thirteenth Finance Commission has even proposed a budget of Rs 3,000 crore to be used for delivering an incentive of Rs 100 into the bank account of each BPL resident who enrolls for the UID Project.

Source : Economic Times

July 31, 2010

10% Increase in DA - Calculation based on the consumer price index of June2010 (174 Points)

The All India Consumer Price Index number for (Industrial Workers) (Base 2001=100) for the month of June 2010 is 174 as announced by Statistics Department, Labour, Government of India.
Based on this index, there is an increase of 10% in the DA . Present DA rate from 1.1.2010 is 35%. Increase with effect from July 2010 is 10%.
Month All India Index % of increase
Nov 200814821.44
Dec 2008 147 22.38
Jan 200914823.39
Feb 200914824.32
Mar 200914825.12
Apr 200915025.98
May 200915126.84
Jun 200915327.78
Jul 200916029.00
Aug 200916230.23
Sep 200916331.45
Oct 200916532.67
Nov 200916834.11
Dec 200916935.70
Jan 201017237.43
Feb 201017039.01
Mar 201017040.59
Apr 201017042.03
May 201017243.54
Jun 201017445.06
Source : Labour Bureau

July 26, 2010

Swavalamban Scheme in New Pension Scheme

Swavalamban Scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2010-2011 and PFRDA issued draft operational guidelines.  The following are the highlights of the scheme:-

(a)  This scheme will be applicable to all citizens in the unorganised sector.
(b) Under the sche, Government will contribute Rs 1000 per year to each NPS account opened in the year 2010-11 for the next three years. that is 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14. The benefit will be available only to persons who join the NPS with minimum contribution of Rs 1,000 and maximum contribution of Rs 12,000 per annum.
(c)  A person will be deemed to belong to unorganised sector, if that person :-
  •  is not a regular employment of the Central or State government, on autonomous body/public sector undertaking of the Central or State government having employer assisted retirement benefit scheme, or
  • is not covered by a social security scheme under any of the following laws:-
(i) Employees' Provident Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952
(ii) The Coal Mines Providen Fund and Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1948.
(iii) The Seamen's Provident fund Act, 1966
(iv) The Assam Tea Plantions Provident Fund and Pension Fund Scheme Act, 1955
(v) The Jammu and Kashmir Employees' Provident Fund Act, 1961.

July 22, 2010

Not taking care to write/maintain CRs - Department failed to ensure fair and efficient career management for their employees- CIC Decision

CIC Appeal No. CIC/DS/A/2010/000298 dated 26/05/2010

The appellant Shri R.K. Talwar, vide his RTI request, enclosed as per Annexure-I, dated 14/09/2009, sought information from CPIO, Department of Posts through 23 points largely pertaining to the non-traceability of his ACRs. Due to this, his son Shri Amit Talwar, Architectural Assistant Grade I, could not be considered for promotion by the Screening Committee which met on 26/03/2008.

2. The CPIO, vide his order of 09/10/2009 asked the appellant to deposit the prescribed fee of Rs.42/- for copies of documents sought by him. He, however, informed that documents sought under Sl.Nos.6,7,20&21 were not available in the office of the Senior Architect(P).

3. In respect of para 23, the CPIO clarified that ACRs of officials working under the office of enior Architect(P) were written in duplicate and original copies were forwarded to DOT from ime to time.

4. Not being satisfied by the order of the CPIO, the appellant preferred first appeal dated 4/11/2009 to the first Appellate Authority.

5. The first Appellate Authority vide order dated 01/12/2009 provided additional larifications in respect of information sought through paras 2(b)&(c), 20, 21&22.

6. Being aggrieved and not be satisfied, the appellant has come before the Commission.

7. The matter was heard today. The appellant and respondents were present as above. Both arties presented arguments before the Commission. The appellant provided copy of Department f Personnel & Training OM No.22011/5/86-Estt.(D) dated 10/04/1989 – para 6.2.1 which clearly rovides for action to be taken in case CR for a particular year(s) is not available – para (c) of the aid OM.

8. The appellant also drew the attention of the Commission to Annexure VI and Annexure X f his appeal wherein he has enclosed relevant paras of the P&T Manual which prescribe custody nd handling of confidential reports which procedure was evidently not followed in this case thereby leading to loss/un-traceability of Shri Amit Talwars CRs and for which reason he was not considered for promotion in the fore-mentioned DPC thereby denying him promotion opportunity along with his peers.

9. The respondents could not offer any explanation as to why these procedures had not been followed. They neither could provide copy of dispatch and movement register vide which the duplicate CRs of Shri Amit Talwar had been forwarded to DOT.

DECISION

10. After hearing the arguments presented by both sides and after perusing the facts on records, it is evident that the Department has not adhered to the prescribed procedure in respect of maintenance and movement of ACRs. The Commission drew the attention of the respondents to the 27th Report for the year 1976-77 by the UPSC wherein it is observed “It is the considered view of the Commission that the question of systematic recording and maintenance of character rolls should receive the urgent and careful attention of the Government, so that Government servants are not denied their legitimate promotions on account of administrative lapses. It will be appreciated that the character rolls form the basis of selection for promotion and would, therefore, have a significant effect on career management. It is also necessary to take steps to ensure the utmost objectivity in the writing of character rolls, so that uniform standards could be applied in assessing the officers and selecting them for promotion. The Commission suggests that in order to attend to these matters and to ensure that no Departmental Promotion Committee meeting is delayed due to the absence and incompleteness of character rolls, a Special Cell should be set up in each Ministry/Department entrusted with the task of maintaining up-to-date seniority lists and character rolls of all officers.”

11. Department of Posts may like to re-visit the procedure currently followed by them in this matter keeping in view the guidelines issued by the Government and the UPSC from time to time and take action accordingly.

12. In keeping with the spirit of the RTI Act, the Appellate Authority has offered to write to BSNL regarding non- availability of the missing CRs and urge them to take action as per the above mentioned Department of Personnel & Training OM of 10/04/1989.

13. The CPIO is directed to provide an affidavit to the Commission in respect of the missing information sought vide points 20, 21 & 22 of the RTI application, within 04 weeks of receipt of this order.

14. A copy of the same may be provided to the appellant.

15. It would be in fitness of things to note that it is unfortunate to see a young executive of Department of Posts/BSNL running from pillar to post in his quest to complete an administrative requirement to ensure his career progression whereas the responsibility of the same lies squarely with the public authority to ensure fair and efficient career management for their employees. There has been considerable apathy in handling this case by the public authority for which the appellant has had to pay dearly in terms of losing time and opportunity for timely promotion.

16. Accordingly, the matter is closed at the Commission’s end.

(Smt. Deepak Sandhu),Information Commissioner (DS)

CIC Decision No CIC/DS/A/2010/000298 dated 26/05/2010

Information requestor to approach Appellate Authority (AA) before sending appeal to CIC


Extract of CIC Decision No CIC/AD/C/2009/000901-DS dated 21/05/2010

CIC  has received a petition from Shri Noubdar Singh dated NIL stating that his RTI-application of 03/06/2009 filed with The PIO/Asstt. Post Master General, D/o Post, O/o the Asstt. Post Master General, UP Cirlce, Lucknow-226001, had replied dated 07/07/2009.

2. On perusing the papers submitted by the complaint, it is observed that he has not availed the first-appellate channel u/s 19(1) of the RTI Act and has approached the Commission directly.

3. In view of above, the complainant is advised to file his first-appeal before the Appellate Authority, under section 19(1) of the RTI Act within four weeks of the receipt of this order. The Appellate Authority to take action as mandated under the RTI-Act, 2005 with a speaking order in this matter.

4. In case the complainant still feels dissatisfied with the decision of AA, then he can approach the Commission in second-appeal in prescribed format, along with complaint, if any.

Click here to see the decision of CIC

July 20, 2010

Small Savings Interest may reduce - Government considereing to link with prevailing market rate.

The government is considering to deregulate interest rates on small savings schemes like public provident fund (PPF) and post office deposits, linking them to the prevailing interest rates in the markets.

The move will reduce returns on such schemes. At present, the interest rates on small savings schemes are fixed by the government, which are normally higher than the prevailing interest rates in the market. For example, the interest rate on PPF is 8%, which is tax-free, while that on the other similar instruments like bank deposits are lower.

The post-tax return on bank deposits is around 5.5% for those who fall in the highest tax bracket of 30%.

Towards this end, the government has set up a committee under the Reserve Bank of India deputy governor Shyamla Gopinath — to suggest the ways and means — for deregulating interest rates on small savings schemes. Small savings schemes mobilise huge amount of funds as they offer higher interest rates.

According to the Budget estimate, in 2010-11, these schemes may fetch Rs 50,300 crore, taking the total mobilisation to Rs 7,57,000 crore.

Funds mobilised under small savings schemes are disbursed to the central and state governments as debt. As the cost of the small savings funds are high, state governments pay higher interest rates (9.5%-10%) on the loans taken from these schemes compared to other sources in the market.

The 13th Finance Commission headed by former finance secretary Vijay Kelkar had suggested to bring down the interest rates on outstanding loans to 9% by the end of 2009-10.

But for this, the interest rates on small savings should also be brought down.

At the same time, according to the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, states cannot borrow from open market beyond 4% of their fiscal deficits. Therefore, states are not able to benefit from prevailing lower interest rates in the market and take higher-interest loans from small savings.

The committee will also examine the new investment opportunities for the funds mobilized under small savings schemes. At present, the funds could be invested only in the central and state governments special securities. Committee will also review the administrative arrangement including the cost of operation.

Source : Times of India

July 18, 2010

More about New Pension Scheme !!!

NPS has a tax edge, but watch out for annuities

The New Pension Scheme (NPS) is likely to get a makeover if the revised Direct Tax Code is implemented. However, the government is doing its bit to lure investors to take a close look at the NPS. Recently, the government announced the ‘Swavalamban’ scheme through which it would add Rs 1,000 co-contribution every year for the next three years for everyone who joins the New Pension Scheme in this financial year. Any NPS subscriber who invests Rs 1,000-12,000 per annum between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2011, will get Rs 3,000 free from the government.

The likely DTC impact
The revised DTC, if implemented without any changes, will keep the NPS out of the tax net. This new change will make the NPS an attractive investment opportunity. The government has proposed EEE (exempt-exempt-exempt) method of taxation for NPS, which implies the NPS will be exempt from taxes at all the three stages of deposit, appreciation and withdrawal. Earlier, the NPS proceeds were taxable at maturity.
Advantages
One of the major advantages is also the lowest fund management charge, which is Rs 99 per lakh (0.0009%) compared to charges of a pension plan offered by an insurance company, which is around 0.75-1.75% per year. This low-cost structure makes it more attractive than most annuity/pension plans offered by insurance companies, financial advisors say. The custodian charges are in the range of 0.0075% to 0.05%. Despite all charges, the cost of investment is cheaper than charges of mutual find and ULIPs.
How does it work?
Investors have an option to choose their investment mix among three categories. The first one (E) refers to high investment exposure in equity, which targets investors with a high risk appetite. Equity investment, however, is capped at 50%, which mainly comprises index funds. The second option (C) is high exposure in fixed income instruments, which targets investors of a moderate risk profile. These instruments include liquid funds, corporate debt instruments, fixed deposits and infrastructure bonds. The last option is pure fixed investment products (G) which offer low returns. Ideally, you should start investing for your retirement in your early thirties. If you have the advantage of longer investment horizon (20 years plus), equity is the best option to start with. But in the case of the NPS, you have to buy a life annuity offered by life insurance companies. The NPS requires the investor to use the retirement corpus to buy annuities to avoid taxation. As per the existing stipulations, you have to invest 40% of the corpus in annuities.
Other alternatives
Annuity plans which don’t return the purchase price offer 8-9% and the ones that return the purchase price offer 50% a year are other options. Any bank deposits over five years, which offered 10% a couple years ago, offer around 8-8.5% today because of a decline in interest rates. There are other assured monthly income options like the Senior Citizens’ Savings Scheme (SCSS) which offer 9%, PPF at 15% and the post office monthly income scheme at 8%.

Courtesy : The Economic Times

Top five selected entries for Indian Rupee new symbol.



Selected Symbol
Other four symbols

July 12, 2010

Remotely Managed Franking System is likely to be issued in our Department

India Post has decided to introduce Remotely Managed Franking Machines in place of Electronic Franking Machines with effect from 16.8.2010 based on new technology with security features like generation of 2D barcode with frank impression and elimination of human intervention for uploading the credit in franking machines.

Salient Features of the RMFS is as follows:-
(a) Only India Specific models of Franking Machines with inkjet printing technology approved by the Directorate will be used.
(b) No requirement of mechanical seals.
(c) Amount for uploading the credit is to be credited at SBI or at Post office through ePayment.
(d) The machine is to be connected to the central server three times every day for exchanging information on funds deposited, funds downloaded and uploading of reports etc.,
(e) The credit will be uploaded in Franking machine on its dialing to RMFs server for the purpose.  Meters will be set/re-set automatically.
(f) Franking impression shall be in blue colour and will indicate class of article, pincode, authentication code, date of frank, mail item number, licence identified number, frank value and 2D barcode.
(g) 2D barcode will have important information and the barcode can be scanned to check the genuineness of the frank impression.
(h) Migration plan for phasing out the electronic FM is as follows:-
    (i) The scheme will be introduced with effect from 16.8.2010
    (ii) Licences of all FMs which are older than 5 years will not be renewed.
    (iii) Licences of Electronic FM which are less than 5 years old may be renewed till completion of period of 5 years.
   (iv) No Electronic FM of old models shall not be allowed to operate after 30.6.2013.  Articles franked by such machines shall not be accepted after 30.6.2013.

July 11, 2010

Solar-power assisted, pedal-operated cycle rickshaw named Soleckshaw developed by CSIR introduced at Rajasthan Circle

Shri Sachin Pilot, Minister of State for Communications & Information Technology launched an environment-friendly postal delivery vehicle ‘Soleckshaw’ here today. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that it is the endeavour of the Ministry to use green technology for delivering services in efficient and eco-friendly manner. He said that this effort is a step forward towards the Government’s efforts to modernise and digitise the India Post Services under Project Arrow. Availability of this vehicle will add to the efficiency of postal agents and will also give them a sense of pride.
As a Pilot Project, Soleckshaw will be introduced soon in the Project Arrow post offices in a city of Rajasthan. Shri Pilot mentioned that the Ministry would evaluate the performance of the vehicle within few months and will explore the possibility of its expansion on larger scale.
Soleckshaw is a solar-power assisted, pedal-operated cycle rickshaw developed by CSIR. It reduces the rickshaw puller’s effort by providing battery assistance. It is still a zero carbon emission vehicle. The batteries are charged by solar power at charging stations. Technology has been transferred to multiple entrepreneurs and Soleckshaws are currently plying at Delhi (Chandni Chowk), Chandigarh, Jaipur, Durgapur, Ranchi, Kolkata and Ahmadabad.
Recently, M/s Kinetic Motors in association with CMERI (CSIR) has re-designed and developed a modified version of Soleckshaw specifically suitable as a light delivery vehicle, particularly useful for delivery of post, parcels and other postal services both in urban and rural areas.
Some of the features of the vehicle are as follows: Soleckshaw has potential for use as a light delivery vehicle for distribution of dak etc, Emergence of electronic means of communication is changing the profile of post offices and postmen.
A Postman is likely to carry more parcels for delivery than ordinary mails. A survey in Pune found that each postman covers an area of around 40-45 kms and carries an average weight of 10-15 kgs per day.
The Soleckshaw is the ideal vehicle to enable transportation of such parcels with a minimum of effort.
This is expected to improve speed and efficiency of postal delivery, increase ability to carry more load; distribute other value-added products in rural areas and provide charging facilities for mobile phones in remote areas etc.

June 30, 2010

Zero response to Dak Adalat : India Post improved its efficiency? or Customers Disinterested?

MANGALORE: The quarterly dak adalat organised by India Post here on Tuesday elicited zero complaints or grievances from customers. This left the workforce of India Post a trifle confused on whether to be happy or sad, as nobody came up with complaints regarding the services offered by their organisation. They did not know if this was to be considered an acknowledgement of their efficiency or sheer disinterest on the part of customers.

Amita S Rao, office assistant of customer felicitation centre, said she was not surprised at the zero complaints received. "Even in the last quarterly dak adalat no one turned up with any kind of grievance. The customers can walk in with their complaints any day, and do not necessarily have to wait for the dak adalat to register their grievances," she said. A day in each quarter has been marked for dak adalat, as this has been the custom.

T G Naik, senior superintendent of post office said attempts are being made to integrate many services under one roof. People trust our services as we have been in business for long. We have a tie-up with UTI mutual fund and are working on retailing their schemes through selected post offices. In addition to that, stamp papers are being made available here, as well as in post offices at Hampankatta and Pandeshwar, Naik said.

Also, plans are afoot to computerize all the sub post offices in Mangalore circle. As we are facing fierce competition in our business, periodical monitoring of achievements and shortfalls is being done, Naik said. The different products and services offered at the PO counters are advertised on local TV channels for publicity. Book now, pay later and direct post, where articles are accepted in bulk, are some of our main schemes, he added.

Source : Times of India

India Post stops selling MF schemes over fee row

MUMBAI: Stae-owned ‘India Post’ has earned just about Rs 2 crore by selling mutual funds last fiscal. The national distributor with some 800 postal outlets selling mutual funds has logged its worst numbers in four years. The department has stopped selling mutual fund schemes of four out of five fund houses with which the department has exclusive distribution tie-ups.

According to senior officials, India Post is only selling mutual fund schemes of UTI Mutual Fund; the department has severed ties with Principal MF, SBI, Franklin Templeton and Reliance Mutual Fund as it could not reach an agreement on commission payout for distributor services.

“The postal department wants us to maintain status quo on commission charges. They sold our schemes for a few more months after August — when the entry load ban kicked in — and after that they stopped,” said the marketing head of a fund house that had distributor tie-ups with the postal department.

“The department is now asking us to pay a 2.25% commission and about 75 basis points as trail, which we will never be able to pay,” the official added.

According to a senior official in the postal directorate, it is no longer viable for the department to sell mutual funds at current brokerage rates. “Moreover, we’d just be a plain distributor. We cannot advise investors on which funds to buy. We do not want to collect advisors’ fee from the investor; we’re only interested in pure distribution,” said the senior official.

The best year for India Post with respect to revenues was 2007-08, when it logged a revenue or over Rs 16 crore selling mutual funds. In 2008-09, during recession, the department posted about Rs 4 crore as revenue.

India Post started distributing mutual funds in 2001, first by signing an exclusive tie-up with IDBI-Principal. If one goes by India Post website, the department has stationed one AMFI qualified personnel at every designated post office to sell mutual funds. But postal department officials now say they cannot “advise” investors on mutual fund investments.

Furthermore, it will be interesting as to how UTI will sell its schemes through India Post after the recent Sebi’s mandate that all (MF) sellers or advisors should clear the NISM’s fund advisors’ module certificate test to sell or advise funds to investors. The long-term impact of India Post not selling mutual funds is going to be very drastic, according to industry sources.

“India Post — though not much of a big contributor to AUMs currently — has all that it takes to be a big rural distributor in future,” said the channel head of a bank-promoted fund house.

“But we’ll not try to revive the postal route now as we are not in a position to meet even half of what they expect from us as commission and trail,” the channel head added.

Source : The economic Times

Department proposed to issue Smart Card for NREGS beneficieries

NEW DELHI: The department of posts plans to introduce electronic cards for payment to beneficiaries under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) to make disbursal of funds under the scheme completely paperless and check financial irregularities.

The government is also planning to open zero-deposit post office savings accounts for beneficiaries of NREGA as well as other social sector schemes. There are about 1.55 lakh post offices in the country which operate small savings schemes.

The proposal aims at helping illiterate workers get their money under the scheme with ease without getting into the trouble of completing forms and procedural hassles.

“Introducing smart cards will ensure that the poor and illiterate workers do not lose out on their wages because of their inability to properly follow the payment procedures and the documentation required,” said an official in the ministry of communications and information technology.

Initially, the electronic cards will be available to workers on a voluntary basis. Depending on its success, it will be gradually rolled out to all beneficiaries of the scheme.

To facilitate ease of use for the illiterate customers, a summary of the transactions will be read aloud in their local vernacular language as an assurance that they have received the requested amount, the official said.

The proposal follows government’s recent decision to make disbursal of funds under the scheme biometric enabled. The twin proposals are expected to bring greater transparency and improve the effectiveness of the UPA’s flagship scheme, which has often been criticised for its lack of proper implementation and revenue leakages.

A review of NREGA, now called Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India last year reflected several flaws in the maintenance of records and money disbursed, leading to questions on effective of the scheme.

The ministry of rural development is also working towards putting in place a system of biometric identification of eligible workers under the scheme.

The biometric database of NREGA workers, which is aimed at bringing more transparency in the implementation of the scheme, will also be shared with Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).

Source : The Economic Times

June 27, 2010

Issue of instructions on Reservation for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes in services under the Government of India

Department of Personnel and Training Memo No.360 1 1/6/20 10-Estt.(Res) dated 25.6.2010

Subject: Issue of instructions on Reservation for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes in services under the Government of India.

The undersigned is directed to say that instructions on Reservation for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes in services Lh under the Government of India are contained Wbarious OMS issued from time to time by the Ministry of Home Affairs and this Department. Some of the instructions so issued have become outdated and are not in operation at present. It has, however, been observed that some appointing authorities are continuing to implement such outdated and non-existent instructions. Keeping all these aspects in view this Department has decided to issue consolidated instructions on Reservation for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes in supersession of all the existing instructions on the subject. The proposal is not to change any aspect of policy on the subject but only to consolidate all the instructions and present them in easy to understand fodlanguage. A draft OM has been prepared which covers all the aspects of reservation policy as existing at present. However, before issuing the proposed OM, it has been decided to put it in public domain and invite comments on it. If any person feels that the proposed OM does not include any of the existing instruction or any instruction included in the proposed OM is not in consonance with the existing instructions, may point out the same and send his comments to the undersigned by 12th July, 2010.

(K.G. Verma)
Director

Department of Personnel and Training Memo dated 25/06/2010

Consolidated instructions on Regularization of Unauthorized absence.

Department of Personnel and Training Memo No. 13026 /3/20 LO-Estt. ( Leave) dated 22.6.2010

The undersigned is directed to say that this Department has been receiving various references from Ministries/ Departments regarding regularization of unauthorised absence for long periods. The references are made basically because the Ministries/Departments do not follow the prescribed procedure, for dealing with such unauthorized absence. Guidelines/instructions exist for handling such situations.

2. As per Rule 25 of I h e CCS (Leave) Rules 1972.

(1). Unless the authority competent to grant leave extends the leave, a Government servant who remains absent after the end of leave is entitled to no leave salary for the period of such absence and that period shall be debited against his leave account as though it were half pay leave to the extent such leave is due, the period in excess of such leave due being treated as extraordinary leave.

(2) Willful absen ce from duty afier the expiry of leave renders a Government servant liable to disciplinary action. Government of India decisions also exist that a Government Servant who remains absent without any authority should be proceeded against immediately and this should not be put off till the absence exceeds the limit prescribed in Rule 32(2) (a) of the CCS (Leak e) Rules, 1972.

3 . It is once again stressed that a Govt. servant who remains absent without any authority shout d be proceeded against immediately. All Ministries Departments are requested to ensure that in all cases of unauthorized absence by a Government Servant, he should be informed of the consequences of such absence and be directed to rejoin duty immediately within a specified date, say within three days, failing which he would be liable for disciplinary action under CCS(CCA) Rules 1965. If the Government Servant does not join duty by the stipulated date the Disciplinary Authority should initiate disciplinary action against him and the disciplinary case should be conducted and concluded as quickly as possible.

4. It is only due to apathy of the Disciplinary Authorities that the situation arises where long pending unauthorized absence leads to delay in other service matters of Government Servants, including promotions. To avoid such situations all Ministries/Departments should advise Disciplinary Allthorities to ensure that prompt action is taken against Government Servantws who absent themselves without permission and that Charge Sheets are issued without delay.

5. The consequences and procedure to be followed in respect of an officer who is absent from duty without any authority has been brought out under FR 17(1 ) and 17-A. As per FR 17-A(iii) without prejudice to the provisions of the Rule 27 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules. 1972, remaining absent without any authority or deserting the post, shall be deemed to cause an interruption or break in the service of the employee, unless otherwise decided by the competent authority for the purpose of leave travel concession, quasi-permanency and eligibility for appearing in deparllnent examinations, for which a minimum period of continuous service is required.

6. Comptroller and Auditor General have issued orders that the period of absence not covered by grant of leave shall have to be treated as "dies non" for all purpose;, viz., increment, leave and pension. Such absence without leave where it stands singly and not in continuation of any authorized leave of absence will constitute an interruption of service for the purpose of pension and unless the pension sanctioning authorities exercise its powers under Article 421, Civil Service Regulations [now Rule 27 of the CCS (pension) Rules] to treat the period as leave without allowance, the entire past service will stand forfeited.

7. It may be noted that regularization of unauthorized absence for pension purpose is to be considered under the CCS (Pension) Rules. Only in cases where the disciplinaly authority is satisfied that the grounds adduced for unauthorized absence are justified, the leave of the kind applied for and due and admissible may be granted to him under the CCS (Leslve) Rules.

Sd/-
(Simmi R Nakra)
Director

Department of Personnel and Training Memo dated 22.6.2010

June 21, 2010

CBS Software expected soon - No more Sanchay Post Software will be purchased

Directorate has issued letter No F.No.76-01/2010-SB dtd 25.5.10 and as per the letter, Sanchay Post software will not be purchased and CBS software will be installed. The letter is reproduced below for information.

The undersigned is directed to say that on the recommendations of a committee constituted to review utility and capabillity of Sanchay post software in the light of proposed CBS, Accrual Base Accounting and compliance of prevention of Money Laundering (PML)/combating of Financing Terrorism (CFT) norms, the competent authority has taken the following decisions:-

1.There will be no further expansion of Sanchay post software. The post offices for which legal copies of the sanchay post CDs have not yet been purchased will continue to work on manual system.

2.No further CD of Sanchaya Post system will be purchased from Datanet System.

3.Software Development Centre Chennai operating from O/O CPMG, T.N.circle will maintain the software at its present level and no further modifications or enhancements will be carried out in the software.

4.SDC, Chennai will help the probable system integrator in data migration to proposed CBS software.

5.After implementaion of CBS in 4000 major post offies, the remaining departmental offices will be shifted to a lower version of CBS with centralized database system.

This issues with the approval of DDG (FS)

June 11, 2010

Payment of 2nd Installment of arrears to GDS

Copy of Dept of Posts letter No No. 6-1/2009-PE.II dated 10.6.2010

Subject: Payment of second installment of 60% arrears on account of implementation of Shri R.S. Nataraja Murti Committee recommendations on revision of wage-structure of Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS).

I am directed to refer to this office memorandum no. of even number dated 9-10-2009, wherein approval was communicated for implementation of recommendations of One-man committee on revision of Time Related Continuity Allowance and other allowances. In para 11 of the said Office memorandum it was stated that, 2nd instalment of 60% of arrears will be paid only after issue of specific instructions in this regard by the Directorate.

2. It has now been decided to pay second instalment of 60% arrears of revision of Time Related Continuity Allowance to the eligible Gramin Dak Sevaks.

3. The Circle Postal Account Offices were required to carry out cent percent verification of TRCA consequent on revision of TRCA. The entire process of verification was to be completed by 31st March, 2010. A report on the cent percent verification of TRCA should be sent to the Directorate immediately for record.

4. The excess payment pointed out by the circle verification squad of DAP office should be adjusted while effecting payment of the second instalment of arrears.

5. Before releasing the 2nd instalment of 60% of arrears it may be ensured that requisite funds are available under the relevant Head of Account.

5. An undertaking in the prescribed format should be obtained from each Gramin Dak Sevak to the effect that, he will refund any excess payments that may be found to have been made or detected subsequently and kept on record before the disbursement of second instalment. The process of payment of second instalment may be completed by 15-7-2010.

6. This issues with the concurrence of Integrated Finance Wing vide their Dy. No.119/FA/10/CS dated 09 Jun 2010

A.K. Sharma)
Dy. Director General (Estt)

June 10, 2010

Postmaster caught taking Rs 5000 for releasing NREGA payments

SURAT: In charge postmaster at Chikhli post office was caught red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 on Thursday for releasing payment of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employement Guarantee Act (NREGA). Kiran Jain, the in charge post master, was trapped by anti corruption bureau (ACB), Navsari.

Minesh Patel, a contractor of NREGA approached ACB and complained that the postmaster was not releasing money of the people working under NREGA which was released by district administration. In his complaint Patel, who is working at a road construction site at Chikhli, earlier paid Rs 2,000 to Jain to release money of the labourers. But for releasing Rs 42,611 payment, he was demanding Rs 5,000 bribe.

To curb corruption and ensure that money under NREGA reaches beneficiaries, payment by cash was stopped and instead cheques are issued by district administration which are then sent to the local post office. After cheques are cleared, the money gets deposited in beneficiaries' account. But, Jain used to keep the cheques issued by district administration with him and intentionally delay deposit in accounts, the complaint stated.

Following the complaint, a trap was laid and Patel reached Chikhli post office to pay the bribe. No sooner Jain took it and put it in his pouch lying on his office table, he was nabbed.

Source : Times of India

Pay Calculator (Under Maintenance)

Pay Calculator (Under Maintenance)

Present Pay including Grade Pay Rs.
Present Grade Pay and Pay Band
Select present HRA rate
Select your eligibility for higher transport allowance (Offices located in A-1/A Cities)

New Basic Pay (Existing pay * 2.57)
Corresponding New Pay Level
Fitment in the New Pay Level
HRA
Transport Allowance
Gross Emoluments

Illustration 1: If an employee H is presently drawing Pay of Rs 55,040 (Pay in the Pay Band Rs 46340 + Grade Pay Rs 8700 = Rs 55040), his pay should be entered in the calculator as Rs 55040 i.e including Grade Pay. The Pay will be fixed as Rs 1,41,600 (Example No I in Para No 5.1.29)

Illustration 2: If an employee T is presently drawing pay of Rs 24,200 (Rs 20,000 + 4,200) and if the post occupied by T is placed one level higher in GP 4600, then the basic pay should be entered as Rs 24,600 (Rs 20,000 + 4,600) and the pay will be fixed as Rs 64,100 (Example No II in Para 5.1.29). Hence, this example is applicable to Inspector Posts in our Department.

Illustration 3: In our Department the GP of IP/ASP/SP has been upgraded to Rs 4600, 4800 and 5400 respectively. Hence as per the Illustration 2 given below Para 5.1.29, the MACP IPs and MACP ASPs are eligible for GP Rs 4800 and Rs 5400 respectively. i.e their new pay level would be 8 and 9.

7 CPC Pension Calculator

7th Pay Commission - Pension Calculator

Present monthly basic pension fixed as per 6th Pay Commission Rs.
Select the Pay scale from which the pensioner retired.
Enter number of increments earned in the Scale of pay/Pay band from which the pensioner retired

New Pension (Existing Pension * 2.57) (Option 1)
Corresponding New Pay Level
Minimum Pension as per Revised Scale
Fitment in the New Pay Level
Monthly Pension As per VII CPC Pay level (Option 2)

Case I - Para 10.1.70:

Pensioner 'A' retired at last pay drawn of Rs 79,000 on 30.5.2015 under VI CPC regime, having drawn three increments in the HAG scale 67000-79000. Basic Pension fixed in VI CPC is Rs 39,500. Initial pension to be fixed under VII CPC is Rs 1,01,515 (39,500 X 2.57) This is Option 1. Notional Pay fixation based on 3 increments is Rs. 199100. Hence option 2 would be 50 percent of Rs 199100 i.e Rs 99,550. As option 1 is higher, pension admissible is Rs 1,01,515.

Case II - Para 10.1.71:

Pensioner 'B' retired at last pay drawn of Rs 4,000 on 31.1.1989 under IV CPC regime, having drawn 9 increments in the pay scale of Rs 3000-100-3500-125-450. Basic pension revised in VI CPC is Rs 12,543. Initial pension fixed under VII CPC is Rs 32,236 (Rs 12,543 X 2.57). This is Option 1. Notional Pay fixation based on 9 increments is Rs 88,400. Hence option 2 would be 50% of 88,400 i.e Rs 44,200. As option 2 is higher, pension admissible is Rs 44,200.



Table showing 4th Central Pay Commission (CPC) Pay scale corresponding to revised 5th CPC post/grade & pay scale and corresponding to 6th CPC pay band & grade pay:-

SL. NO 4th CPC Pay scale w.e.f. 1.1.1986 5th CPC Post/Grade and Pay scale w.e.f. 1.1.1996 6th Central Pay Commission w.e.f. 1.1.2006 Corresponding Proposed 7th CPC Pay Levels
GRADE SCALE Name of Pay Band/Scale Pay Bands/ Scale Grade Pay
1 750-12-870-14-940 S-1 2550-55-2660-60-3200 -1S 4440-7440 1300 Level-1 Minimum Pay Rs 18000
2 775-12-871-12-1025 S-2 2610-60-3150-65-3540 -1S 4440-7440 1400 Level-1 Minimum Pay Rs 18000
3 775-12871-14-955-
15-1030-20-1150
S-2A 2610-60-2910-65-3300
-70-4000
-1S 4440-7440 1600 Level-1 Minimum Pay Rs 18000
4 800-15-1010-20-1150 S-3 2650-65-3300-70-4000 -1S 4440-7440 1650 Level-1 Minimum Pay Rs 18000
5 825-15-900-20-1200 S-4 2750-70-3800-75-4400 PB-1 5200-20200 1800 Level-1 Minimum Pay Rs 18000
6 950-20-1150-25-1400/
950-20-1150-25-1500/
1150-25-1500
S-5 3050-75-3950-80-4590 PB-1 5200-20200 1900 Level-2 Minimum Pay Rs 19900
7 975-25-1150-30-1540/
975-25-1150-30-1660
S-6 3200-85-4900 PB-1 5200-20200 2000 Level-3 Minimum Pay Rs 21700
8 1200-30-1440-30-1800/
1200-30-1560-40-2040/
1320-30-1560-40-2040
S-7 4000-100-6000 PB-1 5200-20200 2400 Level-4 Minimum Pay Rs 25500
9 1350-30-1440-40-1800
-50-2200/1400-40-1800
-50-2300
S-8 4500-125-7000 PB-1 5200-20200 2800 Level-5 Minimum Pay Rs 29200
10 1400-40-1600-50
-2300-60-2600/
1600-50-2300-60-2660
S-9 5000-150-8000 PB-2 9300-34800 4200 Level-6 Minimum Pay Rs 35400
11 1640-60-2600-75-2900 S-10 5500-175-9000 PB-2 9300-34800 4200 Level-6 Minimum Pay Rs 35400
12 2000-60-2120 S-11 6500-200-6900 PB-2 9300-34800 4200 Level-6 Minimum Pay Rs 35400
13 2000-60-2300-75-3200/
2000-60-2300
-75-3200-3500
S-12 6500-200-10500 PB-2 9300-34800 4200 Level-6 Minimum Pay Rs 35400
14 2375-75-3200-100-3500 / 2375-75-3200
-100-3500-125-3750
S-13 7450-225-11500 PB-2 9300-34800 4600 Level-7 Minimum Pay Rs 44900
15 2500-4000 S-14 7500-250-12000 PB-2 9300-34800 4800 Level-8 Minimum Pay Rs 47600
16 2200-75-2800-100-4000/
2300-100-2800
S-15 8000-275-13500 PB-2 9300-34800 5400 Level-9 Minimum Pay Rs 53100
17 2200-75-2800-100-4000 NEW SCALE 8000-275-13500
(Group A Entry)
PB-3 15600-39100 5400 Level-10 Minimum Pay Rs 56100
18 2630/- FIXED S-16 9000 PB-3 15600-39100 5400 Level-10 Minimum Pay Rs 56100
19 2630-75-2780 S-17 9000-275-9550 PB-3 15600-39100 5400 Level-10 Minimum Pay Rs 56100
20 3150-100-3350 S-18 10325-325-10975 PB-3 15600-39100 6600 Level-11 Minimum Pay Rs 67700
21 3000-125-3625/
3000-100-3500-125-4500/ 3000-100-3500-125-5000
S-19 10000-325-15200 PB-3 15600-39100 6600 Level-11 Minimum Pay Rs 67700
22 3200-100-3700-125-4700 S-20 10650-325-15850 PB-3 15600-39100 6600 Level-11 Minimum Pay Rs 67700
23 3700-150-4450/
3700-125-4700-150-5000
S-21 12000-375-16500 PB-3 15600-39100 7600 Level-12 Minimum Pay Rs 78800
24 3950-125-4700-150-5000 S-22 12750-375-16500 PB-3 15600-39100 7600 Level-12 Minimum Pay Rs 78800
25 3700-125-4950-150-5700 S-23 12000-375-18000 PB-3 15600-39100 7600 Level-12 Minimum Pay Rs 78800
26 4100-125-4850-150-5300/
4500-150-5700
S-24 14300-400-18300 PB-4 37400-67000 8700 Level-13 Minimum Pay Rs 118500
27 4800-150-5700 S-25 15100-400-18300 PB-4 37400-67000 8700 Level-13 Minimum Pay Rs 118500
28 5100-150-5700/
5100-150-6150/
5100-150-5700
-200-6300
S-26 16400-450-20000 PB-4 37400-67000 8900 Level-13A Minimum Pay Rs 131100
29 5100-150-6300
-200-6700
S-27 16400-450-20900 PB-4 37400-67000 8900 Level-13A Minimum Pay Rs 131100
30 4500-150-5700
-200-7300
S-28 14300-450-22400 PB-4 37400-67000 10000 Level-14 Minimum Pay Rs 144200
31 5900-200-6700/
5900-200-7300
S-29 18400-500-22400 PB-4 37400-67000 10000 Level-14 Minimum Pay Rs 144200
32 7300-100-7600 S-30 22400-525-24500 PB-4 37400-67000 10000 Level-14 Minimum Pay Rs 144200
33 7300-200-7500
-250-8000
S-31 22400-600-26000 HAG
SCALE
67000-79000 NIL Level-15 Minimum Pay Rs 182200
34 7600/-FIXED /
 7600-100-8000
S-32 24050-650-26000 HAG+
SCALE
75500-80000 NIL Level-16 Minimum Pay Rs 205400
35 8000/- FIXED S-33 26000(FIXED) APEX SCALE 80000(FIXED) NIL Level-17 Fixed Pay Rs 225000
36 9000/- FIXED S-34 30000(FIXED) CAB. SEC. 90000(FIXED) NIL Level-18 Fixed Pay Rs 250000


CLASSIFICIATION OF CITIES FOR HRA

'X' Cities - 24% HRA

Tamilnadu


States


Cities Classified as "X"
Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad (UA)
Delhi Delhi (UA)
GujaratAhmadabad (UA)
Karnataka Bangaluru (UA)
Maharashtra Greater Mumbai (UA), Pune (UA)
Chennai (UA)
West Bengal Kolkatta (UA)

'Y' Cities - 16% HRA



States


Cities Classified as "Y"
Andhra Pradesh Vijayawada (UA), Warangal, (UA),
Greater Vishkhapatnam (M.Corpn), Guntur (UA), Nellore (UA)
Assam Guwahati (UA)
Bihar Patna (UA)
Chandigarh Chandigarh (UA), SAS Nagar, Mohali
Chattisgarh Durg-Bhilai Nagar (UA), Raipur
(UA)
Gujarat Rajkot (UA),
Jamnagar (UA), Bhavnagar (UA), Vadodara (UA), Surat (UA)
Haryana Faridabad*(M.Corpn), Gurgaon*(UA)
Jammu & Kashmir Srinagar (UA), Jammu (UA)
Jharkhand Jamshedpur (UA), Dhanbad (UA),
Ranchi (UA), Bokara Steel City (UA)
Karnataka Belgaum (UA), Hubli-Dharwad,
Mangalore (UA), Mysore (UA), Gulbarga (UA)
Kerala Kozhikode (UA), Kochi (UA),
Thiruvananthapuram (UA), Thrissur (UA), Malappuram (UA), Kannur (UA), Kollam (UA)
Madhya Pradesh Gwalior (UA), Indore (UA),
Bhopal (UA), Jabalpur (UA), Ujjain (M.Corpn)
Maharashtra Amravati (M.Corpn), Nagpur (UA),
Aurangabad (UA), Nashik (UA), Bhiwandi (UA), Solapur (M.Corpn), Kolhapur (UA), Vasai-Vrar City (M.Corpn), Malegaon (UA), Nanded-Waghala (M.Corpn), Sangli (UA)
Orissa Cuttack (UA), Bhubaneswar (UA), Raurkela (UA)
Puducherry (Pondicherry) Puducherry/Pondicherry(UA)
Punjab Amritsar (UA), Jalandhar (UA),
Ludihiana (M.Corpn)
Rajasthan Bikaner (M.Corpn), Jaipur (M.Corpn), Jodhpur (UA),
Kota (M.Corpn), Ajmer (UA)
Tamilnadu Salem (UA), Tiruppur (UA),
Coimbatore (UA), Tiruchirappalli (UA), Madurai (UA), Erode (UA)
Uttarkhand Dehradun (UA)
Uttar Pradesh Moradabad, Meerut (UA),
Ghaziabad* (UA), Aligarh(UA), Agra (UA), Bareilly (UA), Lucknow (UA), Kanpur (UA),
Allahabad (UA), Gorakhpur, Varanasi (UA), Varanasi (UA), Sahranpur (M.Corpn), Noida (CT), Firozabd (NPP), Jhansi (UA)
West Bengal Asansol (UA), Siliguri (UA), Durgapur (UA)

*only for the purpose of extending HRA on the basis of dependency


Remaining cities/towns which are not covered under "X" or "Y" are classified as "Z" for the purpose of HRA.



6h Commission - Pay Band and Grade Pay

STANDARD PAY SCALES

Pay Band Pay in the Pay Band (Rs.) Grade Pay (Rs.)
PB-1 5,200-20200 1,800
PB-1 5,200-20200 1,900
PB-1 5,200-20200 2,000
PB-1 5,200-20200 2,400
PB-1 5,200-20200 2,800
     
PB-2 9,300-34800 4,200
PB-2 9,300-34800 4,600
PB-2 9,300-34800 4,800
PB-2 9,300-34800 5,400
     
PB-3 15,600-39100 5,400
PB-3 15,600-39100 6,600
PB-3 15,600-39100 7,600
     
PB-4 37,400-67000 8,700
PB-4 37,400-67000 8,900
PB-4 37,400-67000 10,000
     
HAG Scale 67,000 (annual increment @ 3%) - 79000 Nil
HSG+ Scale 75,500 (annual increment @ 3%) - 80000 Nil
Apex Scale 80,000 (Fixed) Nil
Cabinet Secretary 90,000 (Fixed) Nil

Rates of Fixed Conveyance Allowance under SR-25

The revised rates of Conveyance Allowance under SR-25w.e.f. 1.9.2008 revised under Ministry of Finance OM No F. No 19039/2/2008-E.IV dated 23.9.2008 are as under:-

Average Monthly travel on official duty For journeys by own motor car (in Rs.) For journeys by other mode of conveyance (in Rs.)
201-300 Kms 1120 370
301-450 Kms 1680 480
451-600 Kms 2070 640
601-800 Kms 2430 750
Above 800 Kms 3000 850

The above rate wll be increased by 25% whenever the Dearness Allowance goes up by 50%

GDS SERVICE DISCHARGE BENEFITS

Nature of benefit Present Benefits Revised Benefits (w.e.f. 9.10.2009)
Ex-gratia Gratuity Granted at the rate of half months basic TRCA drawn immediately before discharge of service for each completed year of service subject to a maximum of Rs 18,000 or 16.5 months basic TRCA last drawn whichever is less. Minimum service prescribed is 15 years. Continuance of the existing formula for grant of Ex-gratia Gratuity subject to a Maximum of Rs. 60,000.
Severance Amount A Lumpsum severance amount of Rs 30,000/- is paid on discharge provided a GDS has completed 20 years of continuous service. In case of a GDS completing 15 years of service but less than 20 years of continuous service the severance amount paid is Rs 20,000 Severance Amount shall be paid at the rate of Rs 1500 for every completed year of service subject to a Maximum of Rs 60000 with reduction in Minimum eligibility period to 10 years.

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