The surprising benefits of lemon!

Lemon (Citrus) is a miraculous product to kill cancer cells. It is 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy. Why do we not know about that? Because there are laboratories interested in making a synthetic version that will bring them huge profits. You can now help a friend in need by letting him/her know that lemon juice is beneficial in preventing the disease. Its taste is pleasant and it does not produce the horrific effects of chemotherapy. How many people will die while this closely guarded secret is kept, so as not to jeopardize the beneficial multimillionaires large corporations? As you know, the lemon tree is known for its varieties of lemons and limes. You can eat the fruit in different ways: you can eat the pulp, juice press, prepare drinks, sorbets, pastries, etc... It is credited with many virtues, but the most interesting is the effect it produces on cysts and tumors. This plant is a proven remedy against cancers of all types. Some say it is very useful in all variants of cancer. It is considered also as an anti microbial spectrum against bacterial infections and fungi, effective against internal parasites and worms, it regulates blood pressure which is too high and an antidepressant, combats stress and nervous disorders. The source of this information is fascinating: it comes from one of the largest drug manufacturers in the world, says that after more than 20 laboratory tests since 1970, the extracts revealed that: It destroys the malignant cells in 12 cancers, including colon, breast, prostate, lung and pancreas ... The compounds of this tree showed 10,000 times better than the product Adriamycin, a drug normally used chemotherapeutic in the world, slowing the growth of cancer cells. And what is even more astonishing: this type of therapy with lemon extract only destroys malignant cancer cells and it does not affect healthy cells.

Institute of Health Sciences, 819 N. L.L.C. Cause Street, Baltimore, MD1201

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Release of Revised MNOP Script (dtd 19/12/2011)

It is decided to keep both POS and SpeedNet MNOP Updation Script at a single point download. This script has to be used at all the offices using POS and SpeedNet.

Based on the latest Sorting Extract / Orders received from the Directorate and IC Hub Data received from Circles, the Revised MNOP Script is released and the details of the releases are as follows.

This script will contain the entire Hub Master data as per the requirement /modifications - including all the previous revisions. This document shows only the latest revisions.

Steps to Update:

· Take Full Backup of POSPCC DB

· Execute the EXL file through ScriptTool.exe.

· Login to Speednet and check View-> Hub Details option .

Note:

SpeedNet: Script is compulsorily to be updated in concerened Hub or IC Hub as well as in all offices using SpeedNet whose Pin Code is covered under Pin Range Modification / Hub – Addition/Deletion.

At other SpeedNet offices the script may be executed so that the Hub Details option in the SpeedNet Module, will show the latest MNOP Pin Range for all hubs.

POS: All offices Booking Speed Post Articles have to update the script.

PTC Link : ftp://ftp.ptcinfo.org/MNOP_Hubs_UpdationScripts_POS_SpeedNet/

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Central Civil Services Pension – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which rules Govern Pensions ? Central Civil Services Pension Rules. 2. Who is the Pension Sanctioning Authority ? Head of Office in the Ministry/Department/Office where a Government servant last served is the pension sanctioning authority. 3. What should a Government servant do to claim his pension ? The Head of Office is required undertake the work of preparation of pension papers in form No. 7 of Pension Rules two years before the date on which a Government is due to retire on superannuation. Eight months prior to the retirement date, a Government servant is requiredto furnish certain information (e.g. joint photo with wife/husband, family details, name of the branch of the authorized bank through which he desires to draw his pension etc.) to his Head of Office in the prescribed form No. 5. After complying with the requirements of CCS Pension Rules 59 & 60, the Head of Office has to forward to the Pay & Accounts Officer form 5 and form 7 duly completed with a covering letter in form 8 along with service book of the Government servant duly completed up-to-date and any other documents relied upon for the verification of service, not later than six months before the date of Retirement of Government Servant. 4. Who is to authorize the pension ? On receipt of pension papers from Head of Office, the Pay & Accounts Officer concerned will, after applying requisite checks, assess the amount of pension and issue the pension payment order (both halves of Pension Payment Order, i.e. disburser’s portion and pensioner’s portion) not later than one month in advance of the date of retirement of the Government servant with forwarding authority letter, duly ink-signed and embossed, to Central Pension Accounting Office which in turn will generate a Special Seal Authority on the basis of details given in the Pension Payment Order. the authority letter of the Pay & Accounts Officer and both halves of PPO with Special Seal Authority shall be forwarded to the concerned link branch of the authorized Bank in the State/Union Territory, which after keeping the details in the indexregister will transmit the documents received from the C.P.A.O. to its paying branch opted for by the pensioner for making payment thereof. 5. What is required in case the pension has not been fixed correctly ? The Pay & Accounts Officer while issuing the pension authorization shall forward one copy of the pension calculation sheet (out of three received by him from the Head of Office) as certified by the Head of Office and countersigned by him (Pay & Accounts Officer) to the pensioner alongwith the intimation of his having sent the pension payment authority/PPO to the CPAO. In case it is found from the pension calculation sheet that pension has been fixed incorrectly, the matter may be taken-up with the Head of Office, PAO concerned who, if necessary, will issue an amendment authority letter to Central Pension Accounting Office for onward transmission to the paying branch (through its link branch) to carry out necessary amendments in both halves of PPO. 6.Whether retirement gratuity, death gratuity can be paid by PAO/CPAO ? No. The amount of retirement/death gratuity as determined by the PAO shall be intimated to the Head of Office who will draw and disburse the amount to the retired Government servant or to the nominee/family as the case may be. 7. Is the Dearness Relief payable on original basic pension or on reduced pension after commutation ? The Dearness Relief is payable on original basic pension before commutation. 8. Is any authorization from PAO/CPAO required for payment of dearness relief at increase rates to pensioners/family pensioners ? No. Whenever any additional relief on pension/family pension is sanctioned by Government an intimation to this effect is sent by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Deptt. of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare) to the authorised representative of each nominated Public Sector Bank. Each link branch will be responsible for ensuring that copies of the orders sanctioning additional relief have actually been received by their paying branches and payment of additional relief at the revised rates to the pensioners has been commenced by them without any undue delay. Whenever there is change in the rates of dearness relief on pension, paying branch will keep a note of rates along with date from which relief would take effect in disburser’s portion and the pensioner’s half of the PPO under attestation by the branch Manager or in-charge before commencing payment of relief at the revised rates and/or payment of arrears, if any, due to the pensioner on this account. 9. Is there any restriction on commutation of pension ? Yes. No Government servant against whom departmental or judicial proceedings as referred to in Rule 9 of the Pension Rules, have been instituted before the date of his retirement or the pensioner against whom such proceedings are instituted after the date of retirement should be eligible to commute a fraction of his provisional pension authorised under Rule 69 of the Pension Rules or the pension, as the case may be, during the pendency of such proceedings. 10. Is there any limit on commutation of pension ? A Government servant shall be entitled to commute for a lump sum payment up to 40 per cent of his pension. 11. What will be the effective date of reduced pension if, a) The applicant is drawing pension from PAO? b) The applicant is drawing pension from a branch of an authorised bank ? c) A Government servant who retired on superannuation and applied for commutation in form 1-A of CCS(Commutation of Pension)Rules upto the date of retirement and commutation paid through Head of Office within the first month of retirement ? d) In case of commutation of provisional pension and retrospective revision of final pension? a) The reduction in the amount of pension on account of the commutation shall be operative from the date of receipt of the commuted value of pension or at the end of three months after issue of authority by the PAO for the payment of commuted value of pension, whichever is earlier. b) The reduction in the amount of pension on account of commutation shall be operative from the date on which the commuted value of pension is credited by the bank to the applicant’s account to which pension is being credited. c) The reduction in the amount of pension on account of commutation shall be operative from its inception. The commuted value is paid in two stages as such the reduction in the amount of pension shall be made from the respective dates of the payment as per (a) or (b) above, as the case may be. 11. How is the period of 15 years for restoration of commuted portion of pension reckon ? The 15-year period for restoration may be reckoned from the date of retirement itself in case where the payment of commuted value of pension was/is made during the first month of retirement leading to appropriate reduction on account of commutation in the first pension itself. In all other cases, where the commutation of pension led/leads to a reduction in the second or subsequent month, the 15 year period will be reckoned from the date on which reduction in pension became/becomes effective. 12. Whether the family can be given the benefit of 40 per cent commutation if a pensioner dies before exercising option ? In view of Governments clarificatory orders, no benefit can be given to the family. 13. Is any authorization for restoration of commuted portion of pension after 15 years requiredfrom PAO/CPAO ? Restoration of commuted portion of pension after 15 years (from the date of crediting of commuted value) or as fixed by the Government from time to time is to be made automatically by bank on receipt of application in prescribed proforma from eligible pensioner. In cases where the date of commutation is not readily available in the PPO, the bank will obtain the information from the concerned PAO who issued the PPO through CPAO before restoring the commuted portion of pension. 14. Whether retirement gratuity/death gratuity , commuted value of pension is taxable ? Retirement/death gratuity and the lumpsum amount received on account of commutation of pension is not taxable under the Income Tax Act 1962. 15. Is the payment of pension in cash or through a joint account with or without “EITHER” or “SURVIVOR” facility permitted in the Scheme for Payment of Pension to Central Government Civil Pensioners by authorised Banks ? Payment of pension in cash or through a joint account with or without “EITHER” or ‘SURVIVOR” facility is not permitted in the Scheme. 16. Can a pension account be operated by a holder of Power of Attorney ? The pension account cannot be allowed to be operated by a holder of Power of Attorney except in the case of the pension accounts of the former Presidents of India or of the spouses of deceased Presidents. However, the facility of allowing cheque books and acceptance of standing instructions for transfer of funds from the account is admissible as per instructions of R.B.I. 17. Can the deduction of Income Tax at source be made from pension payments ? Yes, the paying branch will be responsible for deduction of Income Tax at source from pension payments in accordance with the rates prescribed from time to time. While deducting such tax from pension payments the paying branch will also allow deduction on account of relief available under Income Tax Act from time to time on production of proper and acceptable evidence of eligible savings by pensioners. The paying branch will also issue the pensioner in April each year a certificate of tax deducted in the form prescribed in the Income Tax Rules. 18. Can the excess payment, if any, credited to the pensioner’s account be recovered by the bank ? Before commencing payment of pension the paying branch is required to obtain an undertaking in the prescribed form Annexure-XI of the Scheme from the pensioner. On the strength of this undertaking the excess payment, if any, credited to his/her account can be recovered by the paying branch. 19. Can the payment of retirement/death gratuity be made by the bank ? Unless otherwise specified, payment of death/retirement gratuity is not covered under the Scheme. 20. What is required if a pensioner/family pensioner desires to get his pension payment account transfered (a) From one paying branch to another of the same public sector bank within the same station or a different station ? (b) From one public sector bank to another public sector bank within the same station. (Such transfers to be allowed only once in a financial year) ? (c) From one public sector bank to another public sector bank at a different station ? Applications for transfer of pension falling under category (a) may be entertained by the paying branch of the Public Sector Bank itself. In case the transfer is at the same station, Link Branch will make necessary entries in the register maintained by them in the prescribed form in Annexure-VIII of the scheme and forward the disburser’s portion of PPO to the paying branch at which payment is desired under intimation to the CPAO and the pensioner. In case transfer is at different station, link branch after keeping the requisite note, will forward disburser’s portion of the PPO to the link branch at new station for arranging payment through the new paying branch. Necessary intimation of effecting such transfer will be sent to CPAO by the new as well as old link branches in the form Annexure XXI for keeping a note of change in their records under intimation to the pensioner. The receiving link branch on receipt of the pension documents, will ensure forwarding the PPO to the paying branch within three days and intimate the pensioner simultaneously. Before forwarding the disburser’s portion of PPO to the new paying branch/link branch, it will be ensured that the month up-to which the payment has been made is invariably indicated in the disburser’s portion of PPO. In cases request falling under category (b) & (c), when a pensioner applies for transfer on a simple sheet of paper the old bank (transferor paying branch) will send a letter duly signed by its Branch Manager to the Branch Manager of the new paying branch, wherever located, alongwith photocopy of the pensioner’s PPO showing the last payment made. This will be sent by Speed Post/Courier/Regd. Post to the new paying branch at the new location, alongwith a copy each to the pensioner, CPAO and for information to the Link Branch of the old paying branch. Simultaneously, the old paying branch will send the bank’s copy of the PPO to its link branch, duly completing all entries for transmission to the new link branch. However, pensioner’s copy of PPO will be retained by pensioner and produced at the new paying branch. The new paying branch will commence the pension payment immediately on receipt of letter of the last payment certificate as above. Simultaneously, it will send an intimation to its link branch with full details of the commencement of the pension. The old paying branch and its link branch will ensure that the bank’s copy of PPO is transmitted to the new paying branch through its link branch. Pension will be paid for three months on the basis of the photocopy of the pensioner’s PPO at transferee (New) branch, from the date of last date of payment made at the transferor (Old) branch. During this time, it will be the joint responsibility of both transferor (old) and transferee (New) bank branches to ensure that all the documents under the procedure, are received by the transferee (New) branch within the period of three months. To avoid the risk of overpayment at the time of transfer, the following certificate is required to be recorded on the Disburser’s portion of PPO by the paying branch of the Public Sector Bank: Certified that payment of pension has been made upto the month —————– and that this PPO consists of ———————continuation sheets for recording disbursement.” Except as stated above , the transfer of a pension from one payment point to another will not ordinarily be permitted. 21. What is the procedure for switchover of pension payment from Pay & Accounts Office to authorised Bank ? The existing pensioner will be required to submit his transfer application in the form in Annexure IX of the Scheme in duplicate to his Pension Disbursing Authority i.e. Pay & Accounts Office or Treasury as the case may be. Transfer application in duplicate shall be forwarded immediately by the Pay & Accounts Office alongwith the disburser’s copy of the PPO halves, duly authenticated and written up-to-date to the CPAO for transmission to the link branch of the authorised Bank for arranging payment after keeping necessary note in their records. Pay & Accounts Office should also update the entries of payment made in the pensioners portion of the PPO if not already done, before the transfer application is sent to the CPAO. (from Treasury to authorised Banks ?) In case of transfer from Treasury to Authorised Banks the transfer application along with PPO should be routed through the concerned A.G. whose authorised officer will countersign and also emboss special seal before transmitting the same to the CPAO. 22. Who is to authorize payment of family pension and death gratuity when a Govt. servant dies while on deputation ? In the case of a Govt. servant who dies while on deputation to another Central Govt. Deptt., action to authorize family pension and death gratuity in accordance with the provisions of chapter IX of the pension Rules shall be taken by his Head of Office of the borrowing department. In the case of a Govt. servant who dies while on deputation to a State Govt. or while on Foreign Service action to authorize the payments of family pension and death gratuity in accordance with the provisions of Chapter IX of the pension Rules shall be taken by the Head of Office or the cadre authority which sanctioned the deputation of the Govt. servant to the State Govt. or to his Foreign Service. 23. What should a family member eligible for the grant of family pension do to get the family pension ? Normally, family pension is sanctioned and authorized at the same time as pension and indicated in the pension payment order and is to be drawn after the death of the pensioner. In case of Govt. servant dying while in service, the widow or widower has to make a claim in Form 14 to the Head of Office who will sanction and authorize the family pension through its Pay & Accounts Officer. Where the deceased Govt. servant is survived only by a child or children, the guardian (in case of minor child/children) or such child or children may submit a claim in Form 14 to the Head of Office for sanction and authorisation of family pension with its PAO. For getting family pension, the deceased pensioner’s family should apply in Form no. 14 alongwith a copy of the death certificate of the deceased pensioner (i) to the pension disbursing authority if, the amount of family pension is already indicated in the Pension Payment Order (ii) to the Head of Office for sanction of family pension in all other cases. 24. What is the period up-to which family pension is payable ? Family pension is payable to one member of the family at a time in the order and for the period as under: a) In the case of a widow or widower, up to the date of death or remarriage, whichever is earlier. b) When widow or widower becomes ineligible, children below 25 years of age in the order of their age, up to 25 years of age or till they get married, in case of daughter or till they start earning Rs.2,550/- P.M. whichever is earlier. c) After (a) & (b) above; for the lifetime to any unemployed son/daughter who is suffering from any disorder or disability of mind (including mentally retarded or physically crippled or disabled. 25. Is family pension payable to more than one person at a time ? The family pension will be paid in equal shares where the deceased Govt. servant or pensioner is survived by – a) More than one widow (except in the case of Hindu widow). On the death of one widow, her share of the family pension shall become payable to eligible child. If she is not survived by any child, her share of the family pension shall not lapse but shall be payable to the other widows in equal shares. b) A widow and an eligible child through another deceased wife; the eligible child will be paid the share which the mother would have received had she been alive. c) A widow and an eligible child from a divorced wife; the child will be entitled to the share of family pension which the mother would have received had she not been divorced. 26. How is family pension is payable to twins ? Where the family pension is payable to twin children it will be paid to such children in equal shares provided that when one such child ceases to be eligible his/her share shall revert to the other child and when both of them cease to be eligible the family pension shall be payable to the next eligible single child/twin children. 27. Is family pension payable to a spouse judicially separated ? Yes, family pension is payable to a spouse judicially separated but not to a spouse judicially separated on the ground of adultery.

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Drinking water at the correct time maximizes its effectiveness on the Human body:

2 glasses of water after waking up helps activate internal organs

1glass of water30 minutes before a meal - helps digestion

1 glass of water before taking a bath - helps lower blood pressure

1 glass of water before going to bed - avoids stroke or heart attack

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Minutes of the meeting taken by Secretary (Posts) with Postal Joint Council of Action (JCA) on 10.01.2012, 12.01.2012 & 13.01.2012 on the charter of demands served with notice of indefinite strike with effect from 17.01.2012

INDEFINITE STRIKE CALLED OFF

SETTLEMENT REACHED AFTER FIVE ROUND DISCUSSIONS WITH POSTAL BOARD

·        NO CLOSURE OF L2 OFFICES IN RMS FOR THREE YEARS.

·        POST OFFICES ONLY RELOCATION. NO MERGER.

·  ON SOME ITEMS LIKE GDS ISSUES OTA REVISION ETC DISCUSSION WILL BE ARRABGD WITH MINISTER OF STATE FOR COMMUNICATIONS SHORTLY.

·        OVERALL SETTLEMENT GOOD.

·        READ THE MINUTES BELOW AND OFFER YOUR COMMENTS.

Minutes of the meeting taken by Secretary (Posts) with Postal Joint Council of Action (JCA) on 10.01.2012, 12.01.2012 & 13.01.2012 on the charter of demands served with notice of indefinite strike with effect from 17.01.2012

In continuation of the meetings taken by respective Members of the Postal Services Boards on 27.12.2011 with the Postal Joint Council of Action (JCA) and to review the follow up action taken on various issues raised in the charter of demands, Secretary (Posts) took a meeting on 10.01.2012 starting at 11.00 Hrs in Dak Bhawan. A list of officers and officer bearers/members of JCA who attended the meeting may be seen at Annexure-1. The meeting started with welcome address of Secretary (Posts) and thereafter the issues raised in the charter of demands were taken up and the gist of discussions held during the course of the meeting is as follows.

1 (a) Mail Network Optimization Project

Attention of the staff side was drawn to the relevant part of the minutes of the meeting taken with JCA on 27.12.2011. Besides, with reference to the concern expressed by the staff side in the matter of high percentage of “Returned to Sender” (RTS) mail under Speed Post BNPL scheme, the staff side was informed that the existing provisions of the IPO Act do not confer any authority on the Department to charge from the customer in RTS cases. However the new tool under the project has enabled the Department realize the high instances of RTS mail and take up the issue with such customers. It was also informed that in order to address the problems relating to back routing of Speed Post, recently 21 new intra- Circle hubs have been created.

With respect to the proposed network redesign for the first class mail in terms of L1 and L2 mail offices, the Chairperson informed that the Project seeks to streamline core mail operations, expedite processing of mail and increase mail and parcel traffic. The Chairperson assured that L2 mail offices will not be closed for the next three years. L2 mail offices in metro cities (other than those in Delhi & Kolkata where AMPCs are under installation), will not be closed for the next two years. When AMPCs will be installed in these cities, the matter relating to consolidation of mail offices will be discussed with the staff Side. The staff side expressed its reservations about the proposed implementation plan for First Class mail in terms of its impact on closure of mail offices and transfer of staff. On the issue of change of administrative jurisdiction over Speed Post Centres/Sorting Hubs, the staff side was informed that instructions were issued to the circles earlier in this regard. From the report received from 20 circles, it is ascertained that 53 out of 87 Sorting Hubs are already functioning under the administrative control of an RMS Division. Proposal for change in administrative jurisdiction from Postal to RMS Division has been received from MP circle in case of two Sorting Hubs, which will be examined.

Minutes of the meeting dated 27.12.2011

Following issues were discussed in the meeting:

(i)   Member (O) as Chairman explained that we need to constantly develop and improve our services. Staff side also supported and said that they are not against modernization of the department.

(ii) The Chairman agreed with the staff side that Heads of circles should honour the decision taken at apex level. He reiterated that the department doesn't want to close or change the public interface and sorting will be done by RMS staff.

(iii)  Staff Side raised a number of issues of Maharashtra Circle. Since it was not possible to discuss the issues related to only one circle, it was decided to hold a separate meeting on the issues pertaining to Maharashtra Circle, some time later.

 (iv) The Staff side expressed their apprehension about the implementation of network redesign for first class mail saying the L-2 mail offices will have very little mail to process and may lead to closure of these offices in future. They also expressed their apprehension that in urban areas and especially metro cities the merger may lead to closure of RMS Divisions. It was explained to the staff side that the Department would like to implement the new network design for first class mail with further assurance that no L-2 mail office will be closed till the completion of the MNOP Project. It was further assured that no staff will be transferred from one city to another unless some officials are themselves willing to move to bigger stations. It was also assured to staff side that the merger of mail offices will be put on hold in Mumbai and Chennai till the new sorting machines are in place.

 (v)  It was also informed that for the mail offices under the revised network, the Department is going to train the officials of the RMS to handle the new business . Training will also be given in areas of investigation of frauds and monitoring of frauds. It was also assured that in case the new network leads to any back routing of mail, the Department would be open to reassess the arrangements based on the volume of mail that is being back routed.

(vi)  The Staff side pointed out that the orders issued by the Directorate vide No. 6-5/2011-D dated 20.10.2011 regarding the administrative control over speed post centres/sorting Hubs have not been implemented by the Circles.

 (vii)The Chairman assured that Heads of Circles would be reminded to submit their compliance report on Directorate O.M. dated 20.10.2011 within a week's time. The same will also be monitored through Video Conference. It was decided to discuss this issue with Heads of Circles in the VC scheduled to be held on 12.01.2012.

 (viii)Instructions regarding putting in complete address of the addressee in the system at the booking point have already been issued , but the same are not being followed in many circles. It was assured to reiterate the instructions.

 (ix) The Chairman agreed for providing department transportation for the staff deployed at AMPC, Delhi to and from Dhaula Kuan. Suitable instructions have already been issued. to CPMG Delhi Circle.

1 (b) Closure/merger of Post offices

The staff side drew attention of the Chairperson to the variance that existed between what was minuted as a result of discussions held in June/July 2011 and what has been circulated amongst the Heads of Circle vide letter No. 40-6/2011-PLG(Pt.) dated 25.08.2011. The Contention of the staff side was that merger of a post office with another post office actually tantamount to closure of Post office to which they cannot agree. The matter regarding rationalization of Postal network was discussed. Staff side agreed that post offices may be shifted in cases of litigation and poor condition of buildings. Staff side also agreed that closure of post office should be accompanied by simultaneous relocation of the same to other areas. However, the staff side stated that there should not be temporary merger of Post offices. The matter was discussed and it was agreed that there was  a need for rationalization of postal network instead of resorting to temporary merger of post offices, Circles will identify areas where new post offices are required and would also identify post offices that do not meet the norms and do not have sufficient work. Circles will submit a report to the Directorate for examination.

2(a) Grant of Central Civil Servants status to Gramin Dak Sevaks

Attention of the staff side was drawn to relevant portion of the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011. In the matter of scrapping the new recruitment rules for promotion of Postmen, the staff side was explained the view point of Department of Personnel and Training regarding prescribing some minimum quota of direct recruitment element, all recruitments to be made at the level of either MTS or Postmen, and was asked to give suggestions in the light of the above for further consideration by the Department.

2(a) Grant of Central Government Civil Service Status to Gramin Dak Sevaks

Minutes dated 27.12.2011 

The staff side was apprised of the background of instruction of EDA/GDS system in the Department of Posts, especially in the context of their conditions of engagement which are totally different from regular Government employees. Special mention was made about their part time nature of work and the additional source of income which were the basic conditions for their engagement. While commending the role of Garmin Dak Sevaks in the functioning of Department of Posts, Member (Personnel) as Chairperson of the committee explained to the staff side the improvements which have taken place in their engagement conditions over the years.

Minutes dated 10.01.2012

2 (b) In the matter of enhancement of bonus ceiling Gramin Dak Sevaks to Rs.3500/- the staff side was apprised of the position as reflected in the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011. It was further made clear that as per decision taken in the meeting held with the staff side earlier, the matter was examined in consultation with Integrated Finance Wing where it failed to find favour.

2 (c) The issue of withdrawal of upward change in norms for cash handling etc. was decided to be relooked into, as per minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011. Further the issue of stopping reduction of TRCA in case of reduction of work load will be reviewed in the light of decision taken on the issue of norms for cash handling.

Note: - Minutes dated 27.12.2011

2(e)   Withdrawal of tightened norms for cash handling

The Chairperson agreed to have a relook into the matter.

(NB: The basic issues such as Civil servant status, Bonus etc. will be further discussed in the Minister’s meeting)

2 (d) Compassionate appointment of GDS

The System of awarding marks for making compassionate appointment in case of GDS will be examined in the light of the proposal given by the staff side.

2 (c) Filling up of GDs Mailmen posts in RMS

As recorded in the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011 the feasibility of redeployment of mail men posts in new areas eg. Employment in IAP areas will be examined.

The Staff side desired the following issues to be examined:

(a) supply of chappal (b) repairs/replacement of fans (c) review of cash conveyance allowance. It was agreed to look into these.

3. Revision of wages of casual labourers

The staff side was apprised that a committee had been constituted under the Chairpersonship of CPMG Assam Circle to look into the issues pertaining to casual labourers and it is likely to submit its report shortly. The staff side was advised to give additional inputs, if any, to the Committee which would be taken into account while finalizing the recommendations.

4. Revision of OTA rates

As recorded in the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011, it was decided to examine the proposal keeping in view the OTA rates that are being observed in the Ministry of Railways and Ministry of Defence. The operational requirements of the Department were highlighted by the staff side which were duly appreciated during the discussions. In the matter of punishment of officials due to non performance of OTA duty, earlier instructions of the Department were reiterated on 09.01.2012 and the staff side was supplied a copy of it.

5. Implementation of assurance made on 12.07.2011

The following issues were discussed in the meeting:

(a) Counting of special pay to PO and RMS accountants by implementation of judgment of High Court of Karnataka.

The judgment of High Court of Karnataka in the matter of treating special allowance for fixation of pay etc. was quoted by the staff side with a request not to file an SLP in the matter particularly when the Ministry of Law and Justice opined against it. The staff side was informed on the action taken in the matter in the form of calling for relevant information from the circles to be examined in consultation with the Integrated Finance wing.

(b) Restriction on tenure posting in single/double handed Post offices.

The Staff side was informed that an order relaxing the restriction in the matter referred to above is under issue.

(c) Grant of Special allowance to unqualified Accountants.

It was informed that instructions already exist on the subject which would be got reiterated.

(d) Protection of pay of defunct PO and RMS Accountants

The Staff side requested to extension of benefits as decided in the case of Natha Singh, Punjab Circle. It was agreed to circulate the clarification given to Punjab Circle to the remaining circles also.

(e) Discontinue the fidelity Bond to SPM/Treasurers

The matter will be looked into.

(f) Arbitrary and forcible allotment of staff quarter

The view point of the staff side was well taken. It was informed that the information regarding vacant staff quarters lying in various circles had been called for in the light of which policy guidelines will be formulated covering inter alia forcible allotment of quarter including post attached quarters especially where such post attached quarters is outside the premises of the post office building, as pointed out by the staff side.

(g) Non supply of balance statement every year to officials covered under NPS.

The contention of the staff side was that the issuing of the balance statement to officials covered under New Pension Scheme was not being attended to with the result that they are not aware of details of their credits etc. The staff side also mentioned that in the earlier meeting, the Department made a commitment to start issuing balance sheet by 31.03.2011. In this context, the staff side was apprised of the issue of password to the members of the scheme which would be enable them to approach the main server for this purpose. Further instructions will also be issued for issue of balance statements to all members of the scheme.

(h) Enhancement of financial powers LSG, HSG II and HSG I

The matter is under examination.

(i)     Recovery of over payment on account fixation of pay, and allowances to Postmen/bonus to GDSs

The view point of staff side was that recovery should not be made from the salary of APM Accounts/Accountants due to over payment made to Postmen in the process of implementation of Fifth Pay Commission recommendations. The Staff side however contended that the Department should have filed an SLP against the judgment of High Court to avoid making recoveries from the salary of APM Accounts/Accountants. Stressing on the point of making recoveries from Postmen’s salary who got over paid, it was stated that in case it was not possible, the excess paid amount should be got written off.

The Staff side apprised the Secretary that huge amounts are being recovered from Accountants/APM Accounts and, therefore, requested her to decide the cases from humanitarian angle. Secretary assured that the matter will be examined in Directorate.

(j) Honorarium for invigilators engaged in Departmental Examinations

The matter is already under process for considering enhancing the honorarium.

(k) Allowing the physically handicapped candidates for appearing in IPOs examinations

The Staff side was informed that the matter has been taken up with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment the nodal Ministry for the purpose. All information required by the nodal Ministry has been supplied and the matter is being favourably considered.

(l) Grant of cash handling allowance to PO Treasurers at par with Cashiers and the grant of allowance to all irrespective of their position in MACP

The matter regarding bringing Treasurers at par with Cashiers will be examined. As regards payment of cash allowance to Treasurers irrespective of benefit extended under MACP, the issue has been the subject matter of a Committee appointed for examination of various allowances in the Department and report of the committee is under examination.

(m) Holding of Department council (JCM) meetings.

The staff side was assured of holding of timely Departmental Council (JCM) and periodical meetings. It was decided that the meetings would be held regularly beginning from February 2012. The Staff side made a suggestions for having a standing committee meeting before holding of the Departmental Council meeting and the suggestion was agreed to. The meeting of the standing committee will be held prior to the Department Council meeting (JCM).

6. Immediate finalization of cadre restructuring

As recorded in the minutes of the meeting held on 27.12.2011 the proposal is under consideration of a Committee under the Chairmanship of DDG (P). The staff side expressed their concern about undue delay in finalization of the proposal on which the Chairperson desired finalization of this process by 31^st March 2012. It was assured that the time lines would be adhered to. As regard restructuring of Postal Accounts officials, it was informed that the proposal was cleared by JS&FA and stands referred to Secretary (Posts). It was also decided to have separate committee under the Charipersonship of Ms. Sandhya Rani, PMG (BD), Andhra Pradesh Circle with Director (MV) as the other official member and S/Shri Giriraj Singh and D. Theagarajan as staff side members, to consider cadre restructuring of MMS Staff. The Committee will submit its report within three months from the date of formation.

7. Decentralisation of PLI/RPLI

The staff side was explained in detail about the competition being faced by the Department in the field of PLI/RPLI and the benefits to be derived by decentralizing the functions. The staff side expressed apprehension about relocation of staff due to the process of decentralization. Member (PLI) explained as to how the role of DPLI was going to be redefined by making the job more productive and the fact that job description for each category of staff had been worked out and the staff of PLI will play an important role in increasing the business and providing after sale service. The request of the staff side to permit the Circle/Regional Office branch of PLI to accept, process and service the policies relating to their Headquarter cities where they were located was accepted to.

The issue relating to payment of incentive though not discussed in the meeting will be examined by CGM PLI as it form a part of Charter of Demands.

8. Filling up of all vacant posts including GDS posts.

The Staff side was informed of the mass scale recruitment of regular employees made in the year 2010-11. The staff side was further apprised of the suitable instructions regarding filling up of GDS Posts issued by the Department vide letter No. 17-103/2007-GDS dated 17.02.2011. The instructions were reiterated vide letter of even number dated 06.01.2012. in regard to the proposal of the staff side to redeploy of 2/3 posts for the period up to 2008 kept in skeleton, it was informed that the posts were decided to be abolished by an Inter Ministerial Committee and hence it was not possible to redeploy the same.

9. Ensure 100% filling up LSG, HSG – 2, HSG -1 promotional posts before implementation of Post Masters cadre. Eligibility of Post Masters cadre official for appearing in IPOs/PSS Group ‘B’ examination as also the accounts line officials.

The staff side was explained of the difficulty in filling up of HSG I posts on regular basis due to non finalization of revised rules of recruitment. It was also assured that the matter will be taken up with UPSC, to finalise the same on priority. As regards, filling up of LSG & HSG-II Posts, the staff side was apprised that the instructions were issued to all the circles to fill up vacant posts. This was subsequently followed up by a DO reminder from Member (Personnel) also. As regards, eligibility of officials for Postmaster cadre to appear in the IPs/PSS Group ‘B’ examination, it was decided to reexamine the issue. The eligibility of POs/RMS accounts officials for opting for Post Master cadre will also be considered.

10. Creation of a separate cadre for System Administrators

The issue is a part of the subject matter being considered by Cadre Restructuring Committee. The staff side explained in details the nature of duties of System Administrators which inter alia include acting as a trainer and demanded for grant of travel allowance as per SR 25 and Road Mileage in the event of their moving out of station. The Committee has given its recommendations. Appropriate orders will be issued shortly.

11 (a) Combination of beats/double duty, stop harassment of staff by insisting on 100% delivery under Project Arrow etc.

As a follow up of the minutes recorded for the meeting of 27.12.2011, the composition of the committee which was appointed to consider issues relating to Postmen was revised and an order to this effect was issued on 09.01.2012. The  Committee has been given one month time to submit its recommendations.

The Staff side expressed their concern about supply of good quality uniforms and other kit items.

The following decision were taken in this regard:

(a)   A proposal will be sent to the Department of Personnel & Training to revise the rates of uniforms, kit items etc. which were fixed in the year 2002.

(b)   A clarification will be sought from the DOP&T on the rate of trouser cloth fixed at Rs. 86 per meter and then linking it up with the DGS&D rate contract.

(c)    Replacement of umbrella with rain coat for Postmen appeared to be justified and will be taken up with DO P&T.

12. Fixing norms for newly assigned works of Multi Tasking Scheme (MTS). Allow to decline Postmen promotion for MTS under seniority quota without loosing MACP promotion:

The duties to be performed by MTS have been clearly defined by the Department. The issue of allowing MTS to decline promotion to Postmen cadre under seniority quota without loosing MACP promotion will be looked into.

13. Grant of promotion to Drivers/Artisans at par with Railways/Defence.

The view point of the staff side was that MMS Drivers are plying heavy vehicles with more onerous responsibilities that staff car drivers and therefore they should be compared with drivers of the transport departments. The Chairperson agreed to examine the issue in details keeping in view the practice followed in Ministry of Railways and Defence, State transport or any other Government department where drivers have to drive similar vehicles.

As regards artisans, the staff side was apprised of the sincere efforts already made by the department in consultation with Ministry of Finance. The proposal did not find favour on the grounds that the cadre of charge hand stands merged with that of Artisan Grade-I. However, it was agreed to have a further relook into the issue.

14. Declare SBCO staff as divisional cadre and stop harassment under Contributory factors.

The existing system of transfer of SBCO staff for rotational transfer within the cluster of divisions will be reiterated. In exceptional circumstances Director HQrs., in consultation with AO/ICO (SB) may consider movement of officials outside the cluster. As regards the issue of recovery under contributory negligence factors the proposal of the staff side will be examined.

15. Filling up of Civil Wing Posts

CE (Civil) was asked by the Chairperson to initiate urgent action to fill up all vacant posts. The staff side raised question of lapse of a number of posts due to these remaining vacant for more one year. CE (Civil) informed that the proposal for revival of all those posts was referred to DDG (Establishment).

As regards creation of new offices of Civil Wing the staff side was informed that it would not be feasible.

The demand for transfer of existing staff within jurisdiction of the Postal circle, the staff side was informed that there were very limited number of posts in Civil Wing and even out of these around 40% posts were lying vacant and, therefore, it was not feasible to examine the proposal. However the position will be reviewed when all the administrative posts in the Civil Wing are filled up. The staff side brought to the notice of the Chairperson the need for restructuring of Civil Wing cadres and finalization of the pending rules of recruitment. It was agreed to pursue the same on priority.

16. Functioning of Postal Accounts offices

It was explained to the staff side that DAP offices in Guwahati and Shillong, have been established. The question of providing facilities for the staff Raipur will be looked into by DDG (PAF). As regard Uttarakhand and Jharkhand, the proposal will be examined after introduction of technology.

The question of grant of Group ‘B’ Non-Gazetted status to Senior Accountants will be considered as per the decision made by the other organized accounts cadres.

It was agreed to take action on priority for filling up of accounts posts in Postal Accounts Wing. The question of discrimination in promotion against the MTS officials to the cadre of LDCs after 2006 including the seniors in the Sorting cadre will be examined. The staff side was also apprised that at present there is no proposal to decentralize the Postal Accounts.

17. Counting of past service as RTPs for promotion and MACP

In the light of the Supreme Court judgment on the subject, there is no scope for further examination of the proposal.

18. Implementation of apex court judgement in case of Relaxed Rules of Recruitment (RRR) candidates.

The judgment of the apex court has been implemented in letter and spirit which clearly state that this should not be treated as precedent for the purpose of any other case or cases. In view of the above there is no further scope of re-examining the matter.

19. Stop victimizing under contributory negligence factor.

The Chairperson explained to the staff side that it would not be possible to issue any sweeping order in the matter as each case needs to be decided on its merits and the competent authority while disposing of the matter does take into account all the relevant factors including involvement of the official and the appellate channels are available.

20. Stop discrimination towards PO & RMS Accounts Cadre.

It was decided to refer the matter to the committee constituted for cadre restructuring for examination.

21. Enhancement of LR strength

It was not found possible to enhance the LR strength as demanded by the staff side.

22. Ensure prompt grant of Child Care Leave

Suitable instructions in this regard already stand issued.

23. Review of MACP clarificatory order and rectify the issues like non-drawal of special allowance etc.

The issue was referred to the Committee constituted on allowances. The committee has submitted its report which is under consideration in the Department. It was agreed to issue the following clarifications:

(a)   Grant of MACP will not be deferred on the ground of contemplated disciplinary/vigilance proceedings.

(b)   Instructions on review of ACRs/APARs by screening committees will be reiterated.

(c)    Recovery ordered by DAP in AP and West Bengal Circles in the matter of pay fixation on MACP in case of MTS is being looked into.

(d)   Cases relating to declining promotion prior to issue of MACP order (prior to 2009) would be examined and appropriate orders issued.

24. Drop FR 17-A etc.

The staff side was apprised of liquidation of arrears in the matter of Rule 9 (Pension Rules) disciplinary cases with further clarifications that all out efforts are being made to clear the pendency. As regards imposing of FR 17A, the staff side was explained that the Department’s instructions on the subject provide for involving the said provisions only in case of incitement, violence etc. the instructions were reiterated on 09.01.2012.

25. Legitimate right to avail holidays etc.

The staff side expressed their serious concern about deputing of officials at odd hours in the name of organizing melas etc. Instances were brought to the notice when officials were called as late as 8 to 9 pm and 1.30AM for holding meetings/melas etc. Special mention was made by the staff side about Karnataka Circle. It was agreed to call for a report from the  Karnataka Circle based on which suitable action will be taken.

In view of the detailed discussions held and decisions taken, the staff side was requested to call off the proposed strike.

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

2. Modification in Minutes – Sought for

We have pointed out that some assurances given during discussion is omitted in the minutes. Secretary, Department of Posts, agreed to include agreed items and a revised minutes will be issued on 16.12.2012. Staff side sought following additions/alterations/modification in the minutes.

Item 1 (a) - Mail Network Optimisation Project

1.      L2 mail offices in metro cities (other than those in Delhi & Kolkata where AMPCs are under installation) will not be closed for next three years. (In the minutes it is wrongly shown as two years. Regarding L2 offices it is correctly shown as three years in the minutes)

2.      It was further assured that requirement of more L1 offices will be considered.

3.      The staff side expressed its reservations about the proposed implementation plan for first class mail and also the installation of AMPCs in terms of its impact on closure of mail offices and transfer of staff due to declining mail traffic in future. It is assured that a review will be undertaken after two years.

4.      Regarding transfer of administrative jurisdiction for speed posts hubs to RMS superintendents, it is agreed to decide the cases of other circles also expeditiously.

5.      It is assured that Postal Assistants will not be drafted for sorting work and only RMS staff will do the sorting work.

Item 1 (b) - Closure/merger of Post offices

1.      The words – “and poor conditions of buildings” – should be deleted.

2.      The words – “there was  a need for rationalization of Postal network” – should be deleted.

Item 1 (c) – Fixing norms for CRC, EPP and Logistics

The following may be added in the minutes “Norms for CRC, EPP and Logistics will be examined separately.’

Item 2 (a) – Grant of Civil Servants status to Gramin Dak Sevaks

Item 2 (b) – The following may be added Bonus – “However another attempt will be made to send the case for approval of Finance.”

Item 2 (c) – The staff side desired the following issues to be examined.

            (d) – Providing norms for new work like RPLI etc.

3.      Revision of wages of casual labourer

The staff side expressed its concern over the inordinate delay in payment of revised minimum wages w.e.f. 1.1.2006. It is assured that a decision in this regard will be taken shortly.

4.   Revision of OTA rates

      Regarding waival recovery of OTA already paid, it is agreed to re-examine the issue.

5.   Implementation of assurance made on 12.07.2011 (m) Holding of Departmental Council JCM meetings.

It was agreed that a DO letter from Member (P) will be sent to all Circle Heads to ensure prompt holding of JCM Regional Council meetings and other periodical meetings such as Four-monthly, bi-monthly and monthly meetings at Divisional level.

7.   Decentralisation of PLI/RPLI

The issues relating to payment of incentive instead of honorarium to the Divisional office staff will be examined by CGM PLI. It was assured that all the officials deputed to CO/RO for PLI/RPLI work will be repatriated to their parent divisions immediately.

9.   Ensure 100% filling up of LSG, HSG-II, HSG-I promotional posts.

About the eligibility of Postmaster cadre officials for officiating in HSG-I vacancies, it was agreed to issue necessary clarifications.

10. Creation of separate cadre for System Administrators

Add the words – “and also trainers allowance”. Add – “Revival of the three DDG committee for deciding the nature of duties and responsibilities etc will be done.’

11. (a) Combination of beats/double duty, stop harassment of staff by insisting 100% delivery under project arrow etc.

1.      Next sitting of the Postmen Committee will be held on 16.01.2012 at 3 PM.

2.      It is agreed that a DO letter will be sent by Member (P) to all Circle Heads to fill up all vacant posts of sorting postmen, cash overseer, mail overseer and Head Postman.

3.      Instructions will be issued to all Circle heads for timely payment of speed post incentive to Postmen staff.

4.      Till the Postmen committee finalises it report and decision thereon is taken by the Department, no abolition or redeployment of Postmen posts will be done. Status quo will be maintained.

13. Grant of promotion to Drivers/Artisians at par with Railways/Defence

      After “However it was agreed to have a further relook in the issue”

      Add – “Within three months”.

14. Declare SBCO staff as Divisional cadre and stop harassment under contributory factors

After – “As regards the issue of recovery under contributory negligence factors”.

Add – “Such as SB minus balance etc. the proposal of the staff side will be examined with due consideration of the man-power shortage factor.”

15. Filling up of civil wing posts

      Minutes of the separate meeting held with CE on 12.01.2012 will be supplied to the staff side.

19. Stop victimizing under contributory negligence factor

      However the earlier orders on the subject will be reitereated. 

20. Stop discrimination towards PO & RMS Accountants cadre

The issue of redistribution of LSG/HSG II posts and counting the date of passing the Accountant examination for seniority for promotion will be considered.

21. Enhancement of LR Strength

Add – “as per DO P&T instructions on the subject. The staff side pointed out that the existing 10% LR posts are remaining vacant in the Postmen/MTS cadre in many Divisions. It is agreed to issue instructions to all Circle heads to ensure filling up of all vacant LR Post.

22. Ensure prompt grant of Child Care Leave

      It was agreed to issue further instructions to all concerned.

24. Drop FR 17-A etc.

Specific instructions will be issued to Chief PMG Maharashtra Circle and Tamilnadu Circle in this regard.

25. Legitimate right to avail holidays etc.

Earlier Directorate orders on this subject has been reiterated to implement it in letter and spirit.    

3.  Orders issued on Strike Demands

Please click below for downloading the original orders

1.     Orders on uniforms

2.     Imposing Punishment on non performance OTA

3.     FR 17 (A) – Clear cut guidelines

4.     No Melas on Sundays/Holidays – Implementation of the order in letterand spirit.

5.     Postmen committee – Re-Constitution

6.     Filling up of GDS Posts –Detailed guidelines

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