[Part of the Minutes of the 47th Meeting of National Council (JCM) held on 13th April, 2019 issued by DoPT vide OM No. 3/1/2019- JCA dated 13.06.2019]

6.5 D/o Pension & Pensioners Welfare & D/o Financial Services:

6.5.2 Item No. 21/19/NC-47 – Eligibility of Unmarried/ divorced/ widowed and dependent real sister of Govt. servant/pensioners for Family Pension.

Staff Side stated that government have already included widowed/ divorced/ unmarried and dependent daughters, who have attained 25 years of age, in the definition of family for family pension. Dependent disabled siblings (i.e. real brothers/ sisters) are also now eligible for family pension. Unmarried/ divorced/ widowed dependent real sister of a Government servant / pensioner may also be made eligible for family pension.

Reply of the Official Side :

It was a considered decision of the government to grant family pension to dependent disabled brothers and sisters of Central Government Employees / Pensioners. There are no fresh grounds to reconsider this decision and to extend family pension to all dependent siblings.

The Chairman desired that this may be re-examined

The post Eligibility of Unmarried/ divorced/ widowed and dependent real sister of Govt. servant/ pensioners for Family Pension appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. What is Joint Consultative Machinery?

The scheme of Joint Consultative Machinery is a platform for constructive dialogue between the representatives of the staff side and the official side for peaceful resolution of all disputes between the Government as employer and the employees. The scheme was introduced in 1966 with the objectives of promoting harmonious relations and securing the greatest measure of cooperation between the Central 1 Government as the employer and the employees in matters of common concern and with the object of further increasing the efficiency of the public service combined with the well being of those employed. The scheme is a non statutory one mutually agreed upon between the staff side and the official side.

2. What is the applicability of the JCM Scheme?

The scheme covers all regular civil employees of the Central Government, except:
(a)The Class -I services;
(b)The Class-II services, other than the Central Secretariat Services and the other comparable services in the headquarters organisation of the Government;
(c) Persons in industrial establishments employed mainly in managerial or administrative capacity, and those who being employed in supervisory capacity drawing salary going beyond grade pay of Rs.4200/- per month;
(d) Employees of the Union Territories; and
(e) Police personnel.

3. What is the structure of the Joint Councils under the JCM Scheme?

The scheme provides for setting up of Joint Councils at the National, Departmental and Regional / Office levels. The National Council, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, is the apex body.

4. How are staff side members selected for various Joint Councils?

The representatives of the staff side for various Joint Councils are chosen / selected from members of the recognized service associations/ unions.

5. What is the time schedule for holding meetings of the National / Departmental Councils?

As per the JCM Scheme, ordinary meeting of the National Council/ Departmental Council may be held as often as necessary as but not less than once in four months.

6. How recognition is granted to the staff associations?

The Department of Personnel & Training being the nodal department for matters relating to Joint Consultative Machinery and Compulsory Arbitration, has notified Central Civil Services (Recognition of Associations) Rules, 1993 for the purpose of granting recognition to various service associations.Recognition is actually granted by the concerned Ministry/Department in accordance with the CCS (RSA) Rules, 1993.In case of any doubt or confusion, the matter is referred to the JCA Section of the Department of Personnel & Training for clarification/ advice.

7. What are the facilities available to recognised associations?

The recognized associations/ unions enjoy certain facilities like:
(a) Negotiations with the employer;
(b) Correspondence and meetings with the head of the administrative departments;
(c) Provision of accommodation for the associations subject to availability;
(d) Facility of special casual leave up to 20 days in a year to the office bearers of the associations.(e) Payment of T.A/ D.A for attending officially sponsored meetings; and
(f) Facility of seeking transfer of Chief Executive of the Union /association to the Headquarters of the appropriate head of administration.

8. What will happen if there is no agreement between thestaff and the official side?

If there is no agreement between the staff and the official side on an arbitrable issue, then the matter is to be referred to the Board of Arbitration if so desired by the staff side.

9. What are the issues on which arbitration is possible?

The arbitration is limited to the following issues:
(a) Pay and allowances;
(b)Weekly hours of work ; and
(c) Leave

10. Is the award given by the Board of Arbitration binding on the parties

The award given by the Board of Arbitration is binding on the Government as well as the staff side subject to the over riding authority of the Parliament. The award can be modified/rejected only with the approval of the Parliament through a formal resolution on grounds affecting national economy or social justice.

The post Frequently asked questions on Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM) appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

No.NC-JCM-2019/Pension/NPS

April 23 , 2019

The Secretary
Government of India
Department of Pension and Pensioners welfare
3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan.
Khan Market, New Delhi.

Sir,

Sub : GPF for those who have been recruited on or after 1-1-2004.

Ref : Item No. 5 of the agenda point discussed in the 47th meeting of National Council (JCM) held under the Chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary on 13th April 2019.

You are aware that the Staff side of the National Council JCM is repeatedly demanding for withdrawing the NPS and re introduce the defined Guaranteed pension scheme under the CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 to the employees who have been recruited on or after 1-1-2004. However pending the same the staff side has represented for extending the benefit of GPF for those employees who have been appointed on or before 1-1-2004 and governed under NPS on an optional basis. In the 47th National Council JCM meeting held on 13-4-2019, the Staff side reiterated their demand and requested that the GPF scheme may be extended to the NPS employees who opt for the same as an additional saving benefit. The Cabinet Secretary desired that the demand of the Staff Side may be considered favorably. Your good self has also assured that the demand of the Staff side would be considered and decision taken at the earliest.

In view of the above we submit the following justification for extending the GPF benefit on optional basis to the employees who are governed under the NPS scheme.

The advantage of GPF to the employees is as follows:

(1) The interest rate for GPF accumulation is 8% as on date.

(2) Advances from GPF is permissible for the following purposes.

• Illness of self, family members or dependants.
• Education of family members or dependant of the subscriber. Education will include primary, secondary and higher education, covering all streams and educational institutions.
• Obligatory expenses, viz. betrothal, marriage, funerals or other ceremonies.
• Cost of legal proceedings
• Cost of defence
• Purchase of consumer durables
• Pilgrimage and visiting places of eminence. This will include any travel and tourism related activities.

(3) Apart from the advances as mentioned above GPF subscribers are entitled for withdrawals from GPF for the following purposes.

(i) Education : This will include primary, secondary and higher education covering all streams and institutions.
(ii) Obligatory expenses, viz. betrothal, marriage, funerals, or other ceremonies of self or family members and dependants.
(iii) Illness of self, family members or dependants.
(iv) Purchase of consumer durables.
(v) Housing including building or acquiring a suitable house or a ready built flat for his residence.
(vi) Repayment of outstanding housing loan.
(vii) Purchase of house site for building a house.
(viii) Constructing a house on a site acquired.
(ix) Reconstructing or making additions on a house already acquired.
(x) Renovating, additions or alterations of ancestral house.
(xi) Purchase of motor car/ motor cycle/ scooter etc. or repayment of loan already taken for the purpose.
(xii) Extensive repairs / overhauling of motor car.
(xiii) Making deposit to book a motor car / motor cycle / scooter, moped, etc

Apart from the above tax deduction under section 80C is also available. Annual statements will be issued on the 1st of April every year.

From the above it is amply clear that the GPF is more advantages to the employees than the Tier-II scheme of NPS. Therefore as stated by the staff side in the National Council JCM meeting held on 13-4-2019 it is once again reiterated that the GPF scheme may be extended to the willing NPS employees who opt for the same. Necessary orders in this regard may please be issued at the earliest.

A copy of your instructions may please be endorsed to this Office.

Thanking you

Yours faithfully,
(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
Secretary

The post GPF benefit to the employees who are governed under the NPS scheme recruited on or after 1-1-2004 appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

NJCA

National Joint Council Of Action
4, State Entry Road, New Delhi- 110055

No.NJC/2019/7th CPC

February 9,2019

To
All Constituents of NJCA
Dear Comrades,

A delegation of the National JCA consisting of Com. M. Raghaviah, Com. Shiva Gopal Mishra, Com. Guman Singh, Com. K.K.N. Kutty, Com. Ashok Singh, Com. L.N. Pathak, and Com. R.N. Parasar met the honourable Home Minister on 8th February, 2019 at 9.30 Am. The delegation conveyed to the honourable Home Minister, the discontent and anger of the central Government employees over the dishonouring the assurance held out by the group of minister headed by him on 30 th June, 2016 in the matter of the upward revision of the minimum wage and fitment formula.

They pointed out the honourable home minister that on all previous occasions, the Government had revised the minimum wage recommended by the respective pay Commission after negotiation with the Staff Side JCM. The growing concern of the Central and state Government employees manifested in large scale mobilisation of the newly recruited employees over the new contributory Pension scheme was also brought to his notice.

The employees and officers who are recruited in Central Government service after 1.01.2004 are extremely agitated over the meagre amount of annuity they are entitled to receive even after paying huge amount of subscription to the scheme devoid of cost indexation. Family pension protection ect. The delegation also brought to the notice of the honourable Minister that the number of employees and officers who are presently covered by the new scheme has crossed over 50% of the total strength and the demand for bringing back the old Pension scheme has gained momentum. It unfortunate

that the Government did not heed even to the modest suggestion made by the Staff Side before the pension committee to the effect to guarantee a minimum amount of annuity to those who are covered under the new scheme. The delegation also stated that they are constrained to belive of a concerted effort on the part of the Government to kill the negotiating forum JCM as repeated pleading made to revive the joint consultative Machinery has not been responded.

They pointed out that the National Council of the JCM met about 9 years back and the meetings of the Standing committee and national Anomaly Committee has been few and far between . Since no meetings are convened at the apex level, the departmental Councils had also become defunct, they added. In other words, they said that there has been virtually no interaction worth the name between the Government and the employees organisation , which has proliferated the litigation and in most of the cases, the Government has lost out in the Courts. They also pointed out that the official side had been taking extremely nugatory attitude and had not been acting upon even on the verdicts of the Supreme Court.

The Honourable Home Minister gave a patient hearing and recalled the
interaction he had with the Staff side earlier, when an assurance to revisit the quantum of minimum wage and fitment formula had been held out . He assured the delegation that he would cause a discussion of the matter with the Honourable Prime Minister.

The National JCA met later at the Staff side office when Com. M.S. Raja and Com. Giriraj Singh joined the meeting. The issues were discussed at length, especially taking into account the ensuing general Election in the country. The meeting finally decided to organise the following programme of actions.

13th March 2019

A massive demonstration cum dharna will be organised under the auspices of the National JCA to highlight and focus the demand for the withdrawal of the new Pension scheme and restoration of the old Pension scheme for Central Government employees. The National JCA will simultaneously write to all Political parties to make their stand clear on the issue of the New Pension scheme in their respective manifesto. The National JCA will spcarhead a campaign amount the employees for the acceptances of the demand by the political parties. The dharna will be at jantar Mantar and the same will be participated by the employees working in and around Delhi besides the NJCA leaders. On the same day, similar dharna and demonstrations will be held in front of all Central Government offices throughout the country. The employees will also be requested to wear black badges projecting the demand for the withdrawal of the NPS.

28th MARCH 2019

A protest day long dharna will be organised at jantar Mantar on 28.03.2019, in which all the National council members will take part. A huge demonstration will also be organised on the same day in front of the dharna venue in which the employees working in and around Delhi will take part. The dharna will highlight the need to revive the JCM forum and thus constant and continuous inter action between the Government and the employees. It will also focus the intolerable attitude of the official side even in issuing orders, where the supreme Court has given the verdict in favour of the employees. The Cabinet Secretary will be informed of this decision well in advance.

Copy of the letter addressed to the Cabinet Secretary is enclosed. All participating organisations are requested to make the programme a grand success. The NJCA will meet again on 28.03.2019 to discuss of the future course of action to be mounted in the days to come.

With greetings,

Yours faithfully,
sd/-
(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
Convener

Source: Confederation

The post Revised minimum wage recommended by the respective pay Commission after negotiation with the Staff Side JCM appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

Railway Federations (AIRF & NFIR) are yet to take a decision regarding revival of indefinite strike

NJCA MEETING  18-08-2018

CONFEDERATION, NFPE AND AIDEF INSISTED REVIVAL OF INDEFINITE STRIKE – AUTHORIZED NJCA CHAIRMAN AND CONVENER (RAILWAY FEDERATIONS – AIRF & NFIR) TO TAKE FINAL DECISION REGARDING INDEFINITE STRIKE .

NJCA meeting was held on 18-08-2018. Government has ignored the ultimatum given by NJCA and has not given any cognizance to NJCA’s Resolution adopted on 03-07-2018 and the letter dated 03-07-2018 addressed to Cabinet Secretary.

Government has betrayed NJCA and entire Central Government employees and Pensioners. Therefore, the Representatives of Confederation, NFPE and AIDEF insisted to revive the indefinite strike and start preparations for the strike immediately, as all employees are eagerly waiting for such a decision from NJCA.

Railway Federations (AIRF & NFIR) are yet to take a decision regarding revival of indefinite strike. After discussion it was decided to authorize the Chairman & Convener of NJCA (Railway Federations – AIRF & NFIR) to take final decision and convey the same to Government and also to all constituent organizations of NJCA.

As NJCA could not take any final decision regarding strike, Confederation shall go ahead with its decision to organize one day nationwide strike on 15th November 2018. In the mean time all Central Trade Unions (other than BMS) and independent Federations (including Confederation) are holding a National Convention at New Delhi on 28th September 2018. If any decision for strike is taken in that convention, the date of the Confederation’s strike will be changed to synchronize with the date(s) of the Central Trade Unions and independent Federations, as already decided in the June 10th Hyderabad National Convention.

M.Krishnan
Secretary General
Confederation
Mob & Whatsapp:
9447068125
e-mail:
mkrishnan6854@gmail.com

Source: Confederation

The post NJCA MEETING: Revival of Indefinite Strike – AIRF & NFIR yet to take a decision appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

Shiva Gopal Mishra
Secretary

National Council (Staff Side)
Joint Consultative Machinery
for Central Government Employees
13-C, Ferozshah Road, New Delhi – 110001
E-Mail : nc.jcm.np@gmail.com

No.NC/JCM/2018

Dated: April 10, 2018

The General Secretaries,
All Constituents Organizations of the JCM (Staff Side)

Dear Comrades,

Sub: Brief of the meetings held between the Staff Side (JCM) and Official Side

Met yesterday, i.e. on 9th April, 2018, with the Secretary (DoP&T), Government of India, Dr. C. Chandramauli, who joined recently, and requested him for holding meetings of the Standing Committee of the NC/JCM and National Anomalies Committee at an earliest. He has promised for the same.

Today, i.e. on 10th April, 2018, met the Cabinet Secretary, Government of India, and handed him over a copy of the enclosed letter.

He said that, the issue of the NPS is under finalization and Secretary(Pension), Government of India, had very recently given presentation. He further said that, there would be some visible changes in the NPS.

On the issue of Minimum Wage and Fitment Formula he once again mentioned that it depends totally on the political call.

So far the issue of non-holding of meetings of the National Council (JCM) is concerned, he said that he would try to hold this meeting very shortly.

This is for your information.

Sincerely Yours,
sd/-
(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
Secretary(Staff Side)
National Council(JCM)

Source: http://ncjcmstaffside.com

The post Brief of the meetings held between the Staff Side (JCM) and Official Side appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

Most Immediate
JCM Matter

Government of India
Ministry of Defence
Department of Defence
D(JCM)

Subject:- ‘Minutes’ of the JCM Meeting held under the Chairmanship of JS (Army) on 09.03.2018 at 4.00 PM on the Notice of the 3 Recognized Federations of Ministry of Defence for holding meeting to discuss issues/demands of Defence Civilian Employees

A copy of the Minutes of the Meeting held under the Chairmanship of JS (Army) on 09.03.2018 on the above subject, is enclosed.

2.All the addressees are requested that the same may be gone through and an immediate action may be initiated in the matter and the Action Taken Report (ATR)/views/comments on all point(s) mentioned against each Section/HQ/Orgns, may be forwarded to D(JCM) Section in the form of a ‘self-contained note’ , with the approval of the JS/HOD/HOO concerned.

3.In those cases where action on certain point(s) is/are going on and not yet finalized, the progress arrived at so far may be furnished from time to time to D(JCM) Section till finalization of the case.

sd/-
(Pawan Kumar)
Under Secretary to the Govt. of India
Telefax: 2301 1260

Minutes of the Meeting held on 09.03.2018 under the Chairmanship of JS (Army) discuss the issues/demands of the three recognized Federations of Ministry of Defence

A meeting was convened under the Chairmanship of JS (Army) to discuss the issues raised by the Forum consisting of recognized Federations of Trade Unions of Defence Civilian Employees/Workers vide their notice dated 19th February, 2018 for holding ‘Call Attention Strike’ on 15th March, 2018. JS(LS) was also present in the meeting. The list of participants is attached.

At the outset, the representatives of Federations, and members of the Official Side were introduced to the Chairperson. Thereafter, the Agenda Points were taken up for discussion.

Demands:
1. To withdraw the decision to declare 250 items being manufactured by Ordnance Factories as “Non-Core”.
2. To not declare 39 items of DEF Group of Factories as Non-Core items.
3. To withdraw the Govt. order to grant uniform Allowance to the soldiers in place of stitched uniforms.

Discussion: The 3 Federation Representatives submitted the following views:

In the interest of the Army and their qualitative requirement of troop comfort items like Army Logo Uniforms, various types of battle dress, parachutes, blankets, boots, tents, jerseys, etc. the 5 OEF Group of Factories should continue to remain with the same product profile and the infrastructure and facilities available should not be dismantled, since these factories are war reserve and huge money is invested in these factories and that should not go as waste/scrap. In the past several times Army has gone to private sector for procurement of these items in the name of cost. However, the experience is that since the private sector has failed in quality and timely supply the Army has again come back to the OEF Group of Factories. Therefore, these factories should not be distributed resulting in its closure in the name of non-core and outsourcing. According to the Federations, all these items are core items only. The Federations are of the view that the past experience of the Army will be repeated and if these established facilities are not readily available when the Army fail in procurement of these items from private sector at that point of time then again re-building those facilities of producing troop comfort items will be very difficult. In spite of all these facts even then if the Government is keen in outsourcing these items, the employees of these factories should not be displaced/transferred. The Government may come with a road map to decide about the future products to be manufactured in these factories then employees may be trained and placed in the same factory without disturbing them in their seniority, future promotion and protection of wages etc. and also for retaining the skill by recruitment of trained apprentices. The Federations also expressed their deep concern about the workload and the future of Small Arms Group of Factories, Vehicle Factory and GIF, Jabalpur and HAPP Trichy. They requested that a positive decision in this regard may be taken by the Government to provide sufficient workload to these factories. They also requested that the indent for the workload of 2018-19 of the OEF Group of Factories may be immediately issued since due to non-receipt of indent, the factories are not able to place supply orders for raw materials. They also requested that the reduced expenditure budget of Rupees more than 3,000 crores may be restored to the Ordnance Factories in the interest of completion of target. The Federations also insisted that the battle field dress like Army Logo Uniforms, Jerseys, etc. should not be included in the Uniform Allowance.

Official Side: Responding to the Federations, JS(LS) mentioned that all of us are proud of achievements of OFB and the aim of the policy is to make the organization lean and effective. The capabilities of the private sector has improved with the progress made in the country. There are issues regarding indents of forces not being fulfilled. The intention of the Government is to concentrate on the core sector. A road map/time frame has been given by the Government for developing vendor base. The road map for redeployment of employees will be given for implementation by the Ordnance Factory Board. The steps initiated are towards improving the future of the Ordnance Factories. He assured that the reduction made in the expenditure budget of approximate Rs. 3000 crores is likely to be restored. Further, he assured that no factory will be closed and no employee will be retrenched. As far as possible, efforts will be made not to dislodge the employees from their existing factories/ place of posting. In case after the stipulated period the Army do not place indent for the existing items, then appropriate training of staff for redeployment would be considered. JS(LS) concluded that new opportunities are opening and needs to be utilized by the Ordnance Factories so that the organization grows and scales new heights. JS(Army) stated that the items which are included in the Uniform Allowance is being examined and will be clarified, and the case is under process for releasing the indents for the next financial year for the allotted workload. JS(LS) also stated that VFJ is loaded with manufacturing of Mine-Protected Vehicle and often the factory is not able to deliver the same (the Federations representatives stated that the same is due to non-availability of raw materials etc). JS (LS) also assured about the future workload of Small Arms Factories.
Demands:-

4. To withdraw the decision to convert Army Base Workshops into GOCO Model.

5. To withdraw the decision to close 4 Depots under the DGOS.

6. To withdraw the decision to close 39 Military Farms.

7. To withdraw the decision to declare 31012 employees surplus.
Discussion: The representatives of the Federations reiterated that the implementation of GOCO Model in the Army Base Workshop, closure of Station Workshops, Depots under DG:OS and Military Farms may be reconsidered by the Government and the decision declaring more than 31,000 employees surplus and the proposed action to displace/transfer them may be reconsidered/withdrawn and those employees should not be disturbed from their place of works. In MES, the E-in-C has taken action for filling up of 17,000 posts through Direct Recruitment and hence there is no surplus in MES and the above posts may be filled up immediately without any delay.
Official Side: JS (Army) assured that no employee will be retrenched and the effect of GOCO Model on employees of Army Base Workshops and the manpower requirement of MES would be considered. As far as possible, all efforts will be made to not dislodge the employees from their existing workshops, depots and MES. In case of redeployment becomes necessary, appropirate training will be given to the employees to retain them in the same unit. As regards the concern of the Federations with regard to the surplus of employees, it will be our endeavour that employees are not subjected to hardships.

Demand: 8 Undue delay in holding the DPC for effecting promotions based on the Cadre Restructuring of various categories of DGQA approved by the Government.
Official Side: JS(LS) assured that the matter will be examined and necessary instructions issued for holding of DPCs and effecting promotions in DGQA.

The other demands of the Federations were not taken up in the meeting and it was assured that regular meeting will be held with the Federations to discuss these issues and the process of implementation of the assurance given would be monitored.

Conclusion: JS (Army) concluded the meeting stating that the views of the Federations will be placed before the higher authorities in the Ministry. He also reiterated the assurance given by JS (LS) that no factory will be closed and no employee will be retrenched. As far as possible, efforts will be made not to dislodge the employees from their existing factories/place of posting. In case after the stipulated period the Army do not place target/indent for those items declared as non-core to the Ordnance Factories then appropriate training for redeployment would be considered. Therefore, he requested the Federations that considering the goodwill of the Government and its commitment towards the welfare of the employees to withdraw the Notice for Call Attention Strike on 15.03.2018. The leaders of the Federations stated that in view of the assurance given, they will deliberate and consider the decision to withdraw the proposed Call Attention Strike on 15.03.2018 after receipt of the Minutes of the Meeting.

The Federations once again reiterated that in the interest of National Security as the country maintains the Armed Forces, the Defence Establishments also should be maintained, strengthened and the interest of civilian employees should also be protected.

The meeting ended with the vote of thanks to the Chair.

Source: INDWF

The post Defence: Minutes of JCM Meeting with Chairmanship of JS(Army) on 9.3.2018 appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

INDWF/JCM III OFB/2017

Date: 01.12.2017

To
All Affiliated Unions of INDWF in OFB,
Office Bearers, Working Committee Members & Special Invitees

OFB JCM III level council meeting and APC meetings held on 20, 22 & 23 November, 2017 held at OFB Hqrs Kolkatta.

On 21.11.2017 the Piece work Correlation sub-committee meeting held at Kolkatta under the Chairmanship of Shri A.K. Agarwal, Sr. GM. OF Khamaria at OFB Hqrs, Kolkatta

The brief of discussions, progress and the outcome in the meeting are given below. Further, the 4th APC meeting discussions and proposals for the future of the Ordnance Factories is also given for the information of all the affiliated unions.
Discussions and the decision of the JCM III level meeting held on 20 & 22, November 2017.

1) FILLING UP OF VACANCIES BY PROMOTION IN ORDNANCE FACTORIES
After the rationalisation of posts in respect of Industrial Employees and Non-Industrial Employees sanctioned strength, large numbers of vacancies have arised in Ordnance Factories in addition to the normal recurring vacancies. Some factories have completed the exercise of conduction DPC/Trade Test and filled the vacancies. Whereas, some factories refused to fill the vacancies due to pending case before Hon’ble Supreme Court of India on the subject reservations in promotion treatment of SC/ST candidates promoted on their own merit. In the JCM III meeting it was raised and demanded that the promotions are to be effected based on the clarification given by DOP&T OM No. 36012/11/2016-Estt (Res) Dt. 30.09.2016.

The issue was discussed and OFB vide their letter No.CP(c) Np314/2016/Per/Resv(SCT) Dt. 20.11.2017 directed all Ordnance Factories as mentioned below:

“DOP&T OM No.36012/11/2016-Estt(res) Dt 30.09.2016 clearly indicates that the policy of effecting promotions to reserved categories persons to unreserved post is sub-judice in the Hon’ble Apex Court of India and till such time that the SLP’s are decided by the Hon’ble Supreme Court, while considering promotions, the DOP&T OM Dt 10.08.2010 and Railway Board circular No. 14.09.2010 on the subject reservation in promotion treatment of SC/ST candidates promoted on their own merit, are to be relied upon”.

Factories are requested to effect the promotions accordingly, for which necessary instructions may please be issued.
(Copy of the OFB letter posted in Comnet of OFB Dt 2.11.2017 in Per/Reser (SC/ST)

2) TRAVELLING ALLOWANCE AFTER 7TH CPC
Government of India, Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure, vide their OM NO. 19030/1/2017-EIV Dt 13.07.2017 issued revision of Travelling Allowance rules for the employees which are applicable w.e.f. 01.07.2017 i.e., Travel entitlements within the country

• Entitlement for Journeys by ‘Sea or River Steamers
• Mileage allowance for journey by Road
• TA on Transfer
• TA entitlement of Retiring employees

It was made a request by INDWF that the above order has been circulated by Ministry of Defence. Department of Defence D(Civ-I) vide their letter Dt 17.07.2017 for implementation, but the same has not been circulated by OFB to the Ordnance Factories for giving effect, and grant the revised benefits on these allowance. OFB has confirmed that the above orders in this respect have been recently issued through Comnet to Ordnance Factories this order can be downloaded from Comnet of Ordnance Factories and can avail the benefits w.e.f. 01.07.2017.

3) GRANTING OF ONE TIME RELAXATION IN RESPECT OF LTC CLAIMS FOR RE-IMBURSEMENT UNDER LTC 80 SCHEME.
The issue of granting relaxation in respect of the Defence Civilians employees was taken up with MOD and DOP&T to grant one time relaxation under LTC 80 Scheme. DOP&T vide their ID note No. 1193324/2016-Estt(A-IV) Dt 13.01.2017 and 03.07.2017 have advised the administrative ministry department to examine each case on the certain broad parameters/criteria and where it is satisfied to grant relaxation as prescribed by DOP&T. The same was circulated by MoD letter dated 18.07.2017 for examination of individual cases and proposals on these lines. In this respect, there are large numbers of cases, the final claims have been rejected and recovery has been effected by Ordnance Factories on the closed cases. It was demanded that OFB needs to issue necessary letters to Ordnance Factories to grant one time relaxation by verifying the cases/claims on case by case and accordingly it should be disposed, till such time the recovery should not be effected with penal interst.

OFB has replied that necessary instructions were given still remainders will be issued to process the cases by granting relaxation under LTC-80 Scheme.

4) INDUSTRIAL RELATION PROBLEMS AT RIFLE FACTORY, ICHAPORE
It was mentioned that IR problems at RFI is creating severe discontentment among unions and employees. RFI management after the theft of some pistol components have arrested the concerned people but imposed restriction on unions. Works Committee Society members etc and total activities of welfare matters have been stopped. The production is not very appreciable the targets are far below than the expected level. RFI management instead of concentrating on production productivity affairs they are only serious about distrubing the IR. This needs to be interfered for restoration of peace and of IR. Member WV&E & Chairman assured that is would be reviewed and settled and at the same time requested the Federation to advice the respective unions to extend the co-operation to the present General Manager who is retiring on 30.11.2017.

5) DIRECT RECRUITMENT OF GROUP ‘C’ AND LOCE FOR CM
The Ordnance Factories had sanctioned posts for Direct Recruitment an Industrial and Non-Industrial category to each Ordnance Factories and the job is entrusted to OFRC. It was claimed although necessary written test have been conducted in respected of Group ‘C’ post in each Ordnance Factories but the results are abnormally delayed which raises apprehensions. The delay may lead to some kind of manipulations. The Staff side raised this issue and demanded to finalise without any further delay and time limit should be fixed after conducting the written examination. OFB assured necessary steps would be taken to release the results at the earliest.

6) DISTANCE EDUCATION
Distance Education Diploma (Technical) obtained from various educational institutions were denied on the plea that these institutes are not recognised by AICTE. Recent judgement of Supreme

Court was issued.It was demanded that OFB should in consultation with AICTE and UGC needs to declare the institutes which are authorised to declare distance education diplams. Further the Diplomas already obtained from the Distance Education institution may be recognised for promotion purpose.

7) GRANTING OF NIGHT DUTY ALLOWANCE BY REMOVING THE CEILING LIMIT
After raising the issue at MoD for lifting the ceiling of NDA i.e., Rs.12380/- (BP +DP on 6th CPC) was agreed and instruction were issued by OFB and CGDA on this issue. INDWF demanded OFB to issue necessary instructions notifying the categories both Non-Industrial Employees and NGO’s who are performing Night Duty in Ordnance Factories. Industrial Employees are fully eligible without ceiling, for Non-Industrial Employees and NGO’s they have assured on 21.11.2017 the notification was issued by OFB with the concurrence of PC of A (Fys) which has been uploaded in the Comnet of OFB. This may be downloaded from the comnet and claim is allowed to get the benefit even in the past.

8) 3% INCREMENT ON FIXATION OF PAY FOR MCM ON THEIR PROMOTION TO CM (TECH)
Though MoD has already approved and granted 3% increment for MCM on their promotion to CM (Tech) having higher responsibility from Industrial to Supervisory post but the same has not been accepted by PC of A (Fys) yet, on the reasons that MCM is not the feeder category to Chargeman as per the existing SRO. After discussion PC of A (Fys) agreed to review and grant 3% increment for the promotee CM from MCM.

9) OVERTIME PAYMENT CALCULATION
At present Overtime Allowance is being calculated based in the VI CPC pay scale due to the Overtime Allowance has not been granted on the VII CPC pay scale. It was raised in the meeting that even VI CPC pay scale the annual increments, promotional pay, MACP benefits on pay have not been taken into account for calculation of Overtime Allowance. The pay on 01.07.2016 is only taken for calculation of Overtime bacause PC of A (Fys) have made package on that day. It was demanded that the package is to be revised to add all this earning for calculation of Overtime Allowance as on accruing benefits PC of A (Fys) revise the package taking into account of all these earnings.

10) JCM IV LEVEL FUNCTIONING
National Council JCM, Departmental Council JCM, OFB level JCM in all these forums Finance and Accounts official responsible for taking decisions are participating regularly, whereas in JCM IV level it has been informed by local union that the official from finance and accounts are not participating are they are deputing the auditors only who are not having any authority to take any decision. In this issue it was deliberated PC of A (Fys) agreed to issue necessary instruction to depute not less than Accounts officer.

11) OPERATION OF PROMOTIONS FROM CM TO JWM
The issue was discussed and demanded that the vacancies in the JCM are not filled for last 3 to 4 years. Therefore, it was demanded that the existing vacancies needs to be filled immediately. If there is any discrepancy of seniority in CM and also the senior people are left out, it can be considered for promoting through review DPC; because of discrepancy in seniority the total promotion should not be delayed. OFB agreed on 20.11.2017 and accordingly 1203 promotions have been effected/granted and the order has been issued on 21.11.2017. It was further discussed that Electrical and Clothing technology no promotions were ordered to JWM. It was requested that they may also be considered for promotion in order to maintain parity which can be adjusted in the future vacancies of JWM. This was agreed to reconsider.

12) GRANTING OF FIXATION OF PAY UNDER FR 22(a)(i)(a)
In the absence of clarity after VII CPC for fixation benefit on promotion was not granted since DOP&T has issued necessary orders that provision of fixation of Pay under FR 22(a)(i)(a) existing. It was demanded that the provision of FR 22(a)(i)(a) for granting fixation of pay or promotion be implemented. OFB agreed to implement the same.

13) DISPOSAL OF DISCIPLINARY CASES OF MCM AT FACTORY LEVEL
After VI CPC those who have been granted Rs.4200/- Grade Pay they were classified as Group ‘B’. Though their appointments are given by the General Manager as appointing authority by their disciplinary cases are being dealt by OFB and disposal of their Disciplinary cases are dealt by Chariman OFB. Since the number of persons are quite large and for dealing large number of cases of OFB. Since the number of persons are quite large and for dealing large number of cases by OFB takes lot of time and delay of disposal of cases makes more time. It was demanded by INDWF, the Chairman OFB should delegate power to Sr. General Manager / General Manager as disciplinary authority to handle the disciplinary cases at Factory level.

14) Regarding the declaring results of LDCE which was held in the year 2016 are not yet released because of pending Court Case at Madras CAT. The case will be expedited however OFB has clarified that to avoid litigation in the Direct Recruitment LDCE the answer key after examination will be declared in the public domain so that the candidates can verify the right answers and if any complaint is reported that would be rectified if found genuine. This practice is followed after this exercise only the results will be declared.

15) ACCUMULATION OF EARNED LEAVE BEYOND 300 DAYS UPTO 315 FOR INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES AT PAR WITH NON-INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES AND NGO’S
It was represented by INDWF that accumulation of leave upto 300 days for Industrial Employees was agreed by Government of India and orders were issued during November 2016. Whereas the disparity in respect of leave accumulation upto 315 days after June of every year is not allowed. This may be considered to include 15 days beyond 300 between July and December. This was agreed to reconsider.

16) PAYMENT OF TIME WAGES (DOT) FOR PIECE WORKERS FOR 3 ¼ HOURS
The payment of Time wages for Piece workers between 44 ¾ and 48 hours ( 3 ¼ Hours) on Saturdays which was paid till March 2006 was stopped w.e.f. 01.04.2006. This needs to be restored justifying the reasons for payment of Time wages for Piece workers was submitted by the Staff side to JCM and was discussed. Two Sub-committees from Official side was formed, their reports are not in favour. Finance of OFB refused to recommend. Staff side jointly made a request; OFB should discuss in the Board meeting and may be forwarded to M of D despite finance refused. It was agreed by OFB to forward the proposal after duly approved in the Board meeting.

17) INCENTIVES FOR EXAMINERS
The issue of granting payment of incentive to Examiners at par with Maintenance workers i.e., 50% of the factory average who recommended by the Sub-committee of JCM III. The second part for extending to other employees is kept pending. Though the Board had agreed for granting of incentive to Examiners, OFB finance did not agree. It was demanded to refer to M of D for their approval. The same was agreed by OFB.

18) FILLING UP OF VACANCIES AGAINST COMPASSIONATE APPOINTMENT QUOTA
Ordnance Factories are not filling the 5% of vacancies in a Recruitment year. It has been informed to OFB that many factories are not filling the compassionate appointments for the last few years. The same was agreed and OFB vide their letter No.039/(6) Comp.Appt/Per/Policy Dt 29.11.2017 issued instructions to Sr.GMs/GMs directing to make all out efforts to fill up pending Compassionate appointment vacancies at the earliest.

19) TRANSFER POLICY OF GROUP ‘C’ INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES AND NON-INDUSTRIAL EMPLOYEES
Thousands of employees appointed in various factories through Direct Recruitment away from their hometown. They are making claims and approaching different levels politically and Trade Union/Federations. Very few are getting through but large numbers of employees are denied.

The issue was discussed in JCM III and a committee is formed from official side. The proposals submitted by Federation is under consideration on Transfer of the following methods.

– Compassionate grounds
– Transfer of the employees whose spouse is working away from them
– Mutual Transfers
– Public Transfer etc

The committee under the Chairmanship of Shri Rajveer Singh, DDG/Co-ord, OFB New Delhi office will submit the report and policy will be finalised and implemented.

20) SETTLEMENT OF TA/DA BILLS IN RESPECT OF EMPLOYEES OF OF CHANDA
Large numbers of employees including Industrial employees were deputed on deputation to carry out Official/Factory work to different places at far of places including border areas. The bills produced for stay and food were not approved after lapse of 2-3 years by local accounts for want of VAT/Registration No and made recoveries of advances with penal interest. Many are retired employers. It is requested to sanction the bills based on the 5th CPC rates without production of bills and settle the cases. PC of A (Fys) were requested to issue instructions to LAO to settle the cases which was agreed to review and settle.

21) CRITERIA FOR AFFIXING REVENUE STAMP
After creating electronically generated bills and payment made through ECS, the revenue stamp affixing was dispersed. But, whereas some factories are insisting to affix revenue stamp beyond
Rs. 25000/- and some factories are insisting beyond Rs. 5000/-. It is requested PC of A (Fys) to give the clarifications and instruction to LAOs, OFB about this issue.

Source: INDWF

The post OFB JCM III level council meeting and APC meetings held on 20, 22 & 23 November, 2017 appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

No.IV/I/Pt.III

07.March, 2017

The General Secretaries of
Affiliated Unions of NFIR

Brother,

Subject: Railway Board’s order dated 30.1.2017 curbing workers’ rights.

In the DC/JCM meeting held on 7.3.2017, during Opening Address, both the Federations have taken a stand that the unconstitutional order dated 30.1.2017 preventing Safety (Supervisory) Staff from becoming Office bearers should be withdrawn by the Railway Board immediately to facilitate negotiations to resume.

The President, General Secretary, Working President etc. have conveyed their strong protest against the Board’s letter dated 30.1.2017.

The General Secretary/NFIR had stated that the Railway Board has betrayed the Federations and the Railway Board has equally failed on several counts on written commitments notably:

a) Replacement of GP 4600 with 4800

b) Upgradation from Gr.C to Gr.B (Gaz.)

c) Allotment of GP 4600 to Loco (Mail)

d) Stepping up of pay of Loco Inspectors inducted prior to 1.1.2006

e) Arbitrary reversal of various decisions given in the past (as a result of agreements with the Federations) and without caring to consult federations.

f) Track Maintainers upgradation (written commitment of Board)

In light of Railway Board’s total failure, the Federation (NFIR) conveyed that it is not in a mood to participate in the negotiations of DC/JCM forum and at the same time demanded immediate withdrawal of Board’s order dated 30.1.2017, if the Railway Board sincerely feels that industrial relations are required to be preserved.

With the above observations in the DC/JCM meeting, the leaders left the meeting place. Both the Federations have jointly walked away from the meeting.

Please convey to all employees the above development, as the Railway Board’s order is a direct attack on the rights of workers, whether they are Supervisors or Non-Supervisors and it is a gross violation of Trade Union Act, ID Act etc.

Also convey the “Walk Out” decision of Federations to GMs, CPOs etc.

Yours fraternally,
sd/-
(Dr.M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

The post NFIR: Railway Board’s order dated 30.1.2017 curbing workers rights appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.

The defence ministry has already said a “pending issuance” of the 7th pay commission notification has been sanctioned by the president on ad-hoc basis for the armed forces. The arrears will be 10 percent of the current pay drawn by the soldiers, which would be calculated from January 2016.

However, the central government employees are upset that no such steps have been taken for them. To add fuel to the fire the festival advance has also been abolished before diwali.

The Central government employees are apparently upset with the central government abolishing seven allowances hitherto paid to them, and are planning to discuss the issue in about 10 days.

The Confederation of Central Government Employees said that a meeting scheduled on Thursday (October 13) to take up the issue between the secretary (personnel), government of India and the Staff Side, National Council JCM, will now be held on October 25.

“I am directed to inform you that, the meeting under the Chairmanship of Secretary (Personnel) with the Staff Side, National Council JCM, to firm-up views of the Staff Side (JCM) on various allowances pertaining to DoP&T and also meeting of the Standing Committee, which were scheduled to be held on 13.10.2016 have been postponed.

“They will now be held at 3.00 p.m and 4.30 p.m respectively on 25.10.2016 vide Dy. Secretary (JCA) letter No. 6/8/2016-JCA 2 dated 5.10.2016 (already mail on 10.10.2016),” the Confederation of Central Government Employees said in a communication addressed to Standing Committee Members of the National Council (Staff Side) JCM.

A day prior to that, an Internal Meeting of the Standing Committee Members of the National Council (Staff Side) JCM will be held in New Delhi to discuss the matter, the Confederation of Central Government Employees said.

The abolished allowances include festival advance, bicycle advance and advance of leave salary among others, while those that have been retained are advances for medical treatment, travelling allowance for family of deceased, travelling allowance on tour or transfer and leave travel concession (LTC).

In its report, the 7th pay commission had recommended abolition of 51 allowances and subsuming 37 others after examining 196 allowances.

The recommendations of the 7th pay commission cover 47 lakh Central government employees and 53 lakh pensioners, of which 14 lakh employees and 18 lakh pensioners are from the defence forces.

Source: Ibtimes

The post 7th Pay Commission : JCM Meeting on October 24 & 25 : Most Crucial appeared first on CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES NEWS.