Rajya Sabha Passes Constitutional Amendment Bill.

   The Government of India has always been concerned about the welfare of downtrodden especially Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. As a part of the affirmative action, reservation in promotion had been available to the SCs and STs since 1955. However, some decisions of the Supreme Court like in Indra Sawhney, Veer Pal Singh Chauhan and S. Vinod Kumar cases had caused certain effects on the scheme of reservation in promotion for SCs and STs. To overcome these effects, the Government had brought four Constitutional amendments, namely, 77th, 81st , 82nd and 85th amendments.

   The latest of such judgments was in M. Nagaraj case in which the Supreme Court has laid down some pre-requisite conditions for providing reservation in promotion. These conditions are, namely, assessing the quantum of representation of SCs, STs, there backwardness and effect on efficiency.

Rise in Part-Time Work.

   The World Bank in its World Development Report 2013 has pointed out that part time and temporary wage employment are now major features of industrialised and developing countries and that in India, the number of temporary workers that employment agencies recruit grew more than 10 percent in 2009 and 18 percent in 2010. Part time work is also on rise in India with the share of informal workers in total employment in organized firms grew from 32 per cent in 2000 to 52 per cent in 2005 to 68 per cent in 2010. The propensity of firms to hire contract workers has increased over time for all firms employing 10 or more workers.

   The World Development Report 2013 has also pointed out that when workers move from low-to-high-productivity jobs, output increases and the economy becomes more efficient. Stringent regulations that obstruct such labour reallocation do not sit on the efficiency plateau and affect economic efficiency. Government has taken several steps to provide decent opportunities of livelihood to all those who seek employment.

Nationalised Bank for EPF Deposit.

   Provident Fund contribution of private sector labourers covered under the Employees Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952 is deposited in the State Bank of India.

   As per the provision of Para 52(1) of the Employees` Provident Funds Scheme, 1952, all monies belonging to the Fund shall be deposited in the Reserve Bank of India or the State Bank of India or such other Scheduled Banks as may be approved by the Central Government from time to time. No other Scheduled Bank has been approved by the Central Government for this purpose.

Establishment - Treasuries - Pay and allowances of December 2012 and Pension and Family Pension for January 2013 - Early disbursement in connection with Christmas - Sanctioned - Orders issued.

GOVERNMENT OF KERALA

Abstract

Establishment - Treasuries - Pay and allowances of December 2012 and Pension and Family Pension for January 2013 - Early disbursement in connection with Christmas - Sanctioned - Orders issued.

FINANCE (ESTABLISHMENT- C) DEPARTMENT

G.O(P) No. 678/12/Fin

Dated, Thiruvananthapuram, 12.12.2012.

ORDER

   In view of the ensuing Christmas, Government are pleased to order in relaxation of Article 75(a) & (b) of K.F.C Vol l, that the pay and allowances/Salaries of employees of the State Government including full time and part time contingent employees, work establishment staff and N.M.R workers of all Departments and employees of Aided Schools, Colleges and Polytechnics for the month of December 2012 will be disbursed from the Treasuries as scheduled below:-

Amendment in the Rajasthan Travelling Allowance Rules,1971.

GOVERNMENT OF RAJASTHAN
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
(RULES DIVISION)

Click here to See the Previous Order

F.6(3)FD/Rules/20l2

Jaipur, dated: 14th December 2012.

ORDER

Sub: Amendment in the Rajasthan Travelling Allowance Rules,1971.

   The Governor is pleased to make the following amendment in the Rajasthan Travelling Allowance Rules, 1971, namely:-

Minutes of the meeting held on 21st November, 2012 regarding Revision of PPO in respect of pre-2006 Pensioners/Family Pensioners.

No. 1/20/2011-P&PW(E)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension
Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare

3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan,
Khan Market, New Delhi
Dated: 30th November, 2012

   The Minutes of the meeting held on 2lst November, 2012 at Conference Hall, 5th Floor, Sardar Patel Bhawan, New Delhi with the officers of the Government Departments/Ministries regarding revision of PPOs in respect of Pre-2006 Pensioners/Family Pensioners under the Chairmanship of Secretary (Pension & AR&PG) are circulated herewith.

sd/-
(D.K.Solanki)
Under Secretary to the Government of India

MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON 21st November, 2012 REGARDING REVISION OF PPOs FOR PRE-2006 PENSIONERS&FAMILY PENSIONERS INCLUDING PRE-1990 PENSIONERS/FAMILY PENSIONERS.

Employment News Weekly Updates From 15 December 2012 - 21st December 2012.

Job Highlights  (15th Dec - 21st Dec 2012)

1. Staff Selection Commission notifies recruitment of Constables (GD) in CRPFs and Rifleman (GD) in Assam Rifles, 2013 Vacancies : Approximate 22000, Closing Date : 11.01.2013.

2. ESIC Model Hospital Cum ODC& PGIMSR, Mumbai requires 131 Paramedical Staff. Last Date : 28.12.2012

3. ESI Corporation Model Hospital, Chandigarh requires 50 Nursing/ Paramedical Staff. Last Date : 26.12.2012

RATIONALE BEHIND DEMAND FOR 7TH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION.

RATIONALE BEHIND DEMAND FOR 7TH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION

   Due to no response from the Central Govt. to the proposal for a fruitful discussion on a 15-point charter of demands which includes revision of wages from January 01, 2011 by setting up of 7th Central Pay Commission(CPC) and Merger of 50% DA with Pay submitted to the Prime Minister   by the  Confederation of Central Government Employees and Workers on July 26, the latter has  warned of a one-day’s all India strike on December 12.

   The Confederation’s affiliated federations/unions/associations are organizing a country wide campaign to make the agitation a success. In this context, it is quite relevant to discuss the justification of formation of 7th CPC .

Special concessions/facilities to Central Government Employees working in Kashmir Valley in attached subordinate offices or PSUs falling under the control of Central Government-Clarification.

Click here to See the Previous Order

No. 18016/4/2012-Estt.(L)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, P.G. & Pensions
Department of Personnel & Training

New Delhi, the l4th December, 2012.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Special concessions/facilities to Central Government Employees working in Kashmir Valley in attached subordinate offices or PSUs falling under the control of Central Government-Clarification.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to DOPT OM No.18016/3/2011-Estt.(L) dated 27.6.2012 extending the Special concession/facilities to Central Government Employees working in Kashmir Valley in attached/ subordinate offices or PSUs falling under the control or Central Government for the period with effect from 1.1.2012 to 31.12.2012 and to say that this Department has been receiving references seeking clarifications. The doubts raised are
clarified as under:-

Lower Division Grade Limited Departmental Competitive Examination for Group ‘C’ Staff, 2013 (Grade Pay of Rs.1800) Regulations, 2010 -regarding.

Most Immediate

No. 13/7/2011-CS.II (B)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pension
Department of Personnel & Training

3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan,
Khan Market, New Delhi-110 003
Dated : the 12th December, 2012.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Lower Division Grade Limited Departmental Competitive Examination for Group ‘C’ Staff, 2013 (Grade Pay of Rs.1800) Regulations, 2010 -regarding.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to Staff Selection’s letter No. 10/4/2012-P&P-II dated 06.12.2012 on the subject mentioned above and to request that the vacancy position for Lower Division Grade Limited Departmental Competitive Examination for Group ‘C’ Staff, 2013 (Grade Pay of Rs.1800) may be calculated as per the provisions of CSCS Rules, 1962, as amended on 08.11.2010. The total number of vacancies falling under DR Quota that are to be abolished in terms of instructions contained in this Department’s O.M. No. 9/2/2003-CS-II dated 20.04.2005 may also be shown against relevant column in the proforma for the sake of filling up of the vacancies against reserved slots.

Lower Division Grade Departmental Competitive Examination for Group 'c' Staff 2012 held by Staff Selection Commission - allocation of qualified candidates -regarding.

Most Immediate

No. 13/3/2011-CS.II (B)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pension
Department of Personnel & Training

3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan,
Khan Market, New Delhi -110003
Dated: the 14th December, 2012

Subject: Lower Division Grade Departmental Competitive Examination for Group 'c' Staff 2012 held by Staff Selection Commission - allocation of qualified candidates -regarding.

   The undersigned is directed to say that the final result of Lower Division Grade Departmental Competitive Examination for Group 'c' Staff 2012, which was held on 25.03.2012, has been declared by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) for appointment against the 30% DE quota vacancies in LDC grade of CSCS. SSC has allocated 16 qualified candidates to this Department for appointment as LDC (03 SC & 01 ST candidates have qualified on own merit). Nominations of 16 candidates are made against the Select List Year 2012 on the basis of the Lower Division Grade Departmental Competitive Examination for Group 'c' Staff 2012 as indicated in the Annexure to this O.M.

   2. The dossiers of the candidates are forwarded herewith and these should be retained on their appointment in the Ministry/Department as part of their personal files. The candidates mentioned in the Annexure have not been medically examined and as such, they should be got medically examined by the prescribed competent authority, if deemed necessary.

Medical Care Facility in Superfast Trains

   Indian Railways has a system of rendering First Aid to any passenger in need. All Rajdhani/Shatabdi Express trains are equipped with Augmented First Aid Boxes. The Augmented First Aid Box contains wide range of medicines and disposable medical material. Front line railway staff in trains is trained to provide necessary first aid.

   In addition, services of doctors travelling as passengers are also utilized. Trains make unscheduled halts, if necessary, at the station en-route in emergencies. Railway doctors are available on call at major stations.

CBSE Syllabus

   Under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) affiliation Bye-Laws, the following norms are followed in respect of CBSE syllabi:

•    For classes I-VIII, schools follow the syllabus on the basis of the curriculum prescribed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT)

•    For classes IX-X, schools follow the syllabus as per the scheme of studies prescribed by the Board for the Secondary School Examination;

•    For classes XI-XII, schools follow the syllabus as per the scheme of studies prescribed by the Board for the Senior School Certificate Examination.

Online Sale of Insurance Policies

   Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA) has informed that all Insurance Companies functioning in the country are selling their policies online except Agriculture Insurance Company of India Ltd. (AICIL), Export Credit and Guarantee Corporation (ECGC), L&T General Insurance, Raheja QBE General Insurance, SBI General Insurance and Shriram General Insurance.

IRDA has informed that the likely benefits of purchasing policies online are as under:-

Review of retention of Railway accommodation by Railway Officers/staff on their deputation to Railway PSUs.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA/BHARAT SARKAR
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS/RAIL MANTRALAYA
(Railway Board)

RBE NO: 138 /2012
New Delhi, Dated: 05.12.12

No:E(G) 2008 QR1-15

The General Managers,
All Indian Railways &
Production Units.(As per standard mailing list).

Sub: Review of retention of Railway accommodation by Railway Officers/staff on their deputation to Railway PSUs.

   The instructions issued vide Board’s letter of even number dated 01.11.2010, in regard to retention of Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting by officers/staff on deputation to Railway PSUs have been reviewed by the Board.

Review of three years time limit for making compassionate appointment.

IMPORTANT - CIRCULAR

CONTROLLER GENERAL OF DEFENCE ACCOUNTS
ULAN BATAR ROAD, PALAM, DELHI CANTT- 110 010

No. AN/VIII/l9001/Circular

Date: 11.12.2012.

To
The  All PC of A(Fys)/PCsDA/CsDA

Sub: Review of three years time limit for making compassionate appointment.

   A copy of DoPT O.M. F. No. 14014/3/2011-Estt (D) dated 26.07.2012 received under Ministry of Defence letter No. 19(9)/2012/b(Lab) dated 08.08.2012, on the above subject is forwarded herewith for information, compliance, guidance and necessary action please.

Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) Clarification regarding grant of financial benefit to Hindi Officers.

CIRCULAR

OFFICE OF THE CONTROLLER GENERAL OF ACCOUNTS
Ulan Batar Road, Palam, Delhi Cantt—10

No. AN/XI/11051/MACP/HO/2009

DATED: 10.12.2012

To
All the PCsDA/PCA (Fys) KoLkata/CsDA

Subject: Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS): Clarification regarding grant of financial benefit to Hindi Officers.

   The matter regarding grant of financial upgradation under MACP Scheme to those Hindi Officers, who have been initially appointed as Hindi Translators —grade II, after qualifying the Departmental examination, was referred to the Ministry for clarification as to whether, the appointment of such Hindi Translators is to be treated as fresh appointment or promotion, for grant of benefit under MACP Scheme.

List of holidays of Govt. of West Bengal in 2013

Government of West Bengal
Finance Department
Audit Branch

No. 10015-F(P)

Kolkata, the 10th December, 2012.

NOTIFICATION

   In exercise of the power conferred by the explanation to Section 25 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 (XXVI of 1881), read with Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, Notification No. 20/25/56-Pub(l) dated the 8” June, 1957 the Governor is pleased to declare the following days to be public holidays during the year 2013.

Vacant Posts of Teachers in KVs

   Some posts of teaching & non-teaching staff/gazetted Officers in the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) reserved for Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/Other Backward Classes are lying vacant. Details are as under:-

Sl. No.	Name of the Post	Number of Posts lying vacant
		SC	ST	OBC
1.	Assistant Commissioner	2	1	4
2.		-	1	-
3.	Finance Officer	-	1	2
4.	Technical Officer	-	-	1
5.	Principal	12	6	22
6.	Vice-Principal	18	9	-
7.	Teaching Staff	988	494	1778
8.	Non-Teaching Staff	335	167	583
TOTAL		1335	679	2390

Reservation in Promotion

   Reservation is available to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes at the rate of 15% and 7.5%, respectively, in all Groups viz. A, B, C (including erstwhile Group D posts) in case of promotion by non-selection method. In case of promotion by selection method, reservation is available in Group B, C and upto the lowest rung of Group A at the same rates.

   As regards senior posts of Secretary, Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary in the Central Ministries/Departments, these posts are filled on deputation basis under the Central Staffing Scheme except the posts in the Ministry of External Affairs. Reservation does not apply to posts filled on deputation. The officers borrowed from various cadres including the State Cadres, who are empanelled to hold such posts and who give their option for deputation are appointed under the Central Staffing Scheme. Likewise, the posts of Director (not including the posts in Central Secretariat Service) are also filled under the Central Staffing Scheme.

Investment by EPFO in Equities

   The Employees Provident Fund Organisation is not considering investment in equities as funds earning 12 per cent annually in the National Pension System.

   As on 31.10.2012, the total of Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) corpus invested in private sector is Rs. 26,896.54 Crore including Rs. 4.05 Crore investments in blue chip manufacturing companies.

   Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)ensure security of the capital contributed by the beneficiaries with risk free, consistent return on the same.

   This information was given by the Minister of State for Labour Shri K.Suresh in reply to a written question in the Rajya Sabha today.

One-Rank-One-Pension

   Government constituted a Committee in July, 2012, headed by Cabinet Secretary for looking into the pay and pension related issues of relevance to Defence service personnel and Ex-servicemen. The Committee submitted its report on issues namely OROP-Bridging the gap in pension, Enhancement of family pension, Dual Family Pension and Family pension to mentally / physically challenged son/ daughter of armed forces personnel on marriage. The recommendations have been accepted by the Government and are in the process of implementation.

Air India LTC-80 Fares updated as on 01-12-2012

 

Air India Domestic Fares (Apex & Instant Purchase Fares)

TABLE IV‐ LTC Fares updated as on 01-12-2012

Ex-servicemen to get timely pensions

   The defence ministry on Wednesday took several decisions to ensure ex-servicemen get their pensions in time, stung by criticism over the huge delay in former NSG commando Surender Singh getting all his dues. Anti-graft crusader Arvind Kejriwal had raised the case of Singh, who was injured in the 26/11 terror attacks, last month, forcing the government to admit there had been a considerable delay since the soldier's retirement "paperwork'' had not been completed in time.

   At a meeting chaired by defence minister A K Antony, it was decided that 50% of the pension of soldiers who are "invalidated out" or are "war casualties" should be disbursed immediately, pending the completion of retirement/medical board formalities. It was also decided the Army and Navy should follow the IAF's example of the which has established " e-tracking process" to ensure pensions are disbursed in time.

Early Closure of Offices in connection with Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony during 2013.

No.16/13/2012-JCA 2
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel Public Grievances and Pensions
(Department of Personnel and Training)

North Block, New Delhi
Dated the 11 th  December, 2012

 
OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Early Closure of Offices in connection with Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony during 2013.

   In connection with arrangements for the Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony, 2013, it has been decided that the Government offices located in the buildings indicated in  Annexure-I would be closed early at  13:00 hrs. on 25th January, 2013 (Friday)  and buildings indicated in Annexure-II  would be closed early at  12:00 Noon on 29th January, 2013 (Tuesday).

Stipend to SC/ST Students

   Under the pre-matric scholarship scheme for SC/ST students studying in classes IX and X, the rate of scholarship is Rs.150/- per month for day scholar and Rs.350/-per month for hostellers, for a period of ten months in a year and books and ad-hoc grant of Rs.750/- per year for day scholars and Rs.1000/- per year for hostellers. Additional allowance for students with disabilities is also admissible to those who are studying in private un-aided recognized schools.

Loan to Disabled Persons

   The National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC) provided loans on concessional rates to the persons with disabilities.
 
   The scheme-wise maximum repayment period is as follows: (i) Self Employment Scheme – 10 years (ii) Micro Credit Scheme – 3 years & (iii) Education Loan Scheme – 7 years.  The repayment under education loan scheme commences one year after completion of course or six months after securing a job, whichever is earlier.

   NHFDC has delegated sanctioning authority for loan proposals costing upto Rs.5.00 lakh to its State Channelizing Agencies (SCAs).  Only the loan proposals with project cost above Rs.5.00 lakh are forwarded by SCAs to NHFDC.  In case of Regional Rural Banks, those entered in collaborative tie up with NHFDC for implementation of its schemes and Apex Co-operative Banks, State Financial Institutions acting as SCAs, the sanctioning authority is upto Rs.25 lakh.

Vacant Posts in DGCA

   A total of 528 posts are lying vacant against the sanctioned strength of 924 in the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Filling-up of the vacancies is a continuous process and is done in accordance with the laid down procedure.

   It is proposed to create a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to replace the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will have adequate financial and administrative flexibility to meet functional requirements of an effective safety oversight system.

Implementation of e-Learning Content for Government Employees — Administrative Approval — Orders - Issued.

ABSTRACT

Information Technology Department — Announcement for the year 2012-13-Implementation of e-Learning Content for Government Employees — Administrative Approval — Orders - Issued.

Information Technology (e.Gov.I) Department

G.O.Ms.No.15

Dated: 06.12.2012

Read:
From the CEO, TNeGA, Chennai Letter No.1069/ TNeGA/2012, dated 12.7.2012.

ORDER:

   While moving the Demand No.31, relating to Information Technology for the year 2012-2013, the following announcement was made in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, among other things:-

   2. In this regard, the Chief Executive Officer, Tamil Nadu e-Goverance Agency was requested to send a proposal for implementation of the e-Learning Content for Government Employees and he has forwarded the proposal. The salient features of the proposal on "e-Learning Content”are:

Revision of rates of damages for unauthorised occupation of General Pool Residential Accommodation.

Government of India
Ministry of Urban Development
DIRECTORATE OF ESTATES

Nirman Bhavan, New Delhi-110 108

No.18011/2/2006-Pol-III

DECEMBER 06, 2012

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: - Revision of rates of damages for unauthorised occupation of General Pool Residential Accommodation.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to this Directorate/ O.M No.18011/2/2002 Pol-III dated 25th November 2011 on the above subject and to say that the it has been decided to make revision of the rates of damages recovered from unauthorised occupants of General Pool accommodation a regular exercise as a multiple of normal rate of licence fee as given in the Annexure to this O. M. Henceforth, the rate of damages/market rent will automatically get revised as and when the rate of normal licence fee under FR-45-A is revised. In addition to this garden charges as applicable will also be recovered.

Disability Benefit to Defence Personnel.

   Armed Forces personnel who are retained in service despite the disability held attributable to or aggravated by military service are entitled tolumpsum compensation of disability / war injury element at the time of disability.

   Those who do not opt for the retention are entitled to disability pension / war injury pension on retirement / discharge. No disability pension / war injury pension is admissible on retirement / discharge once the lumpsum compensation has been obtained by the personnel.

FDI in Defence Sector.

   As reported by the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) amounting to Rs.19.89 crores (US $ 4.12 millions) has been received in defence industry sector from January 2001 to September 2012.

   FDI upto 26% under the Government approval route is permitted in Defence Sector subject to specified conditions.

Employment News Weekly Updates: Job Highlights (08th December 2012–14th December 2012).

Job Highlights  (08 Dec - 14 Dec 2012)

1. Life Insurance Corporation of India requires approximately 5201 Apprentice Development Officers. Last Date : 22.12.2012.

2. High Explosive Factory, Khadki  requires 80 C.P.W. (SS), Electrician (SS), Boiler Attendant  (SS) and Welder (SS) Last Date : 21 days after publication.

3. Shreyas Gramin Bank, Aligarh  requires about 112 Officer Scale-III, Officer Scale- II, Officer  Scale-I and Office Assistant (Multipurpose) Last Date for Online Registration: 22.12.2012.

Advance Increments granted to Stenographers of Subordinate Offices on qualifying speed test in shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. regarding.

No.1/1/2010-Estt.(Pay-I)
Department of Personnel & Training
Estt (Pay I ) Section

New Delhi, the 6th  December, 2012.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM 

Subject: Advance Increments granted to Stenographers of Subordinate Offices on qualifying speed test in shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. regarding.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department's OM No.18/44/88-Pay-I datel 07.12.2009 on the above subject which provides that the Advance Increments granted to Stenographers of Subordinate Offices on qualifying speed test in shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. are treated as pay for all purposes.

   2.  Consequent upon implementation of CCS (RP) Rules 2008, the concept of Pay Bane& Grade Pay has been introduced. Since there are no fixed rates of increments now, the manier in which advance increment(s) are to be computed has been considered in consultation with the Department of Expenditure. The grant of advance increments to Stenographers of Subordinate Offices on qualifying the speed test in shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. after 1.1.2006 may be regulated as under:-

Retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway officers/Staff posted to Rail Wheel Plant (RWP)/Bela

RBE No.136/2012

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA (BHARAT SARKAR)
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (RAIL MANTRALAVA)
(RAILWAY BOARD)

NO.E (G) 2012 QR-1-15

New Delhi, Date; 03-12-2012

The General Managers,
All Indian Railways/Production Units,
(As per standard list).

Sub: Retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway officers/Staff posted to Rail Wheel Plant (RWP)/Bela ( Dist.Saran, Bihar).

   The issue of permitting the Railway Officers/Staff posted at the Rail Wheel Plant (RWP) Bela (Distt. Saran /Bihar) to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting has been considered by the Board.

Central Government Employees to get Bigger and Better Quarters.

The quarters of central government employees are set to become bigger and better.

   Ahead of the election season, the urban development ministry is planning to not just increase the houses' areas by an average of 25 per cent but also fit them out with modular kitchens and electric chimneys. The last time the housing norms were revised was in 1981.

   During Janata Party rule in 1977, the government had asked the central public works department (CPWD) to scale down the sizes of the quarters and the amenities provided. The idea was to build more quarters in less time. A year after the Congress came back to power in 1980, it reverted to the old norms.

   "We can say that this is the first time in (over) 30 years that the government is working on improving the living conditions of government employees," a senior CPWD official said.

Amendment of Minimum Wages Act.

   As per the existing provisions of Minimum Wages Act, minimum wages are revised quinquennially in the Central Sphere. In order to protect the minimum wages against inflation, the Central Government introduced the idea of Variable Dearness Allowance (VDA) since 1989. The appropriate Governments are required to increase the minimum rates of wages from time to time by adding VDA, twice a year or annually, taking into account the rise in the Consumer Price Indices for the Industrial Workers. In the Central sphere, the minimum rates of wages are revised effective from 1stApril and 1st October every year.

Reservation in Promotion.

   The Supreme Court in the matter of M. Nagaraj case, while upholding validity of the Constitution amendments regarding reservation in promotion to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, has laid down certain pre-requisite conditions for providing reservation in promotion to SCs and STs, namely the State has to see about inadequacy of representation, backwardness of the class and efficiency of administration. To overcome these pre-requisite conditions, the Government proposed to introduce a bill to amend the Constitution. Opinion of the Attorney General of India was sought on the proposed bill and he had not opined that the Bill on the Constitutional amendment for reservation of Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes in promotion in the Government jobs was erroneous.

Award of Incentive to the Government employees who have rendered 25 years of unblemished service — Orders issued — Extension of the same to State Public Sector Undertakings / Statutory Boards — Regarding.

Finance (BPE) Department,
Secretariat,
Chennai — 600 009

Letter No. 64466/Fin(BPE)/2012 dated 29.11.2012

From
Thiru. K.Shanmugam, I.A.S.,
Principal Secretary to Government

To
The Chief Executive Officers of all
State Public Sector Undertakings / Statutory Boards.

Sin Madam,
Sub: Award of Incentive to the Government employees who have rendered 25 years of unblemished service — Orders issued — Extension of the same to State Public Sector Undertakings / Statutory Boards — Regarding.

Ref: 1) G.O.Ms.No.390/Finance (Paycell) Dept dt.7.11.2012

Schemes for Welfare of Senior Citizens.

   The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is not implementing any Centrally Sponsored Scheme for welfare of senior citizens. However, this Ministry is implementing a Central Sector Scheme of Integrated Programme for Older Persons through Non-Government Organizations, Panchayati Raj/Local Bodies, etc. to cater to the basic needs of destitute senior citizens viz. shelter, food, recreation, health care etc. As per the guidelines of the Ministry, State/UT Governments are required to carry out inspection of the projects being funded by the Ministry every year and send inspection report along with Grant-in-aid proposal of organization for release of grant. Further, grants to the NGOs are released on the basis of, inter alia, satisfactory inspection, audited accounts and utilization certificate for the grant released for the previous year.

Flexibility in Labour Laws.

   The World Bank in its World Development Report, 2013: Jobs has suggested that India needs to focus on jobs and labour reforms. The report emphasizes the need to stay within the efficiency “plateau” of labour laws where labour policies are not too stringent and allow the creation of more wage employment, especially in cities and in activities connected to global markets. With the working population increasing by 7 million people each year in India, accelerating urban development and increasing labour flexibility are key to creating jobs in more productive activities, thus sustaining growth and reducing poverty. So, for India, the desirable actions to promote growth would include creating towns, reforming Labour Laws to allow flexibility and improving Governance in general and specifically in areas that impede entrepreneurship.

   As regards the reaction of Government of India, it is stated that Ministry of Labour & Employment is mandated to create a work environment conducive to achieving a high rate of economic growth with due regard to protecting and safeguarding the interests of the working class in general and those constituting the vulnerable sections of the society in particular. Accordingly, the Ministry of Labour & Employment reviews/updates various Labour Laws from time to time which is a continuous process.

Caste Based Census.

   In pursuance to Government decision, a Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) is being carried out throughout the country. The field work for the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) is being conducted by the respective State/UT Governments. The financial and technical support for this exercise is being provided by the Government of India. The Nodal Ministries in the Government of India are the Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation. Technical support is being provided by the Ministry of Home Affairs (Office of Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India).

   The field data-collection in each Enumeration Block is being conducted by a team of 2 persons, an enumerator who is appointed by the State/UT Government and a Data Entry Operator who is handling the Tablet PC for data entry operation.

   The tasks related to hardware and software development and field data entry operations has been entrusted to a consortium of three Central Public Sector Undertakings, namely, the Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) and the Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) Limited.

Ordnance Factory at Nalanda

   Action for setting up of ordnance factory at Nalanda in Bihar is underway.Commissioning of Nitro Cellulose Plant (NC) and erection of Sulphuric Acid Concentration / Nitric Acid Concentration Plant (SAC/NAC) are under progress. Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) is also planning for procurement of sub-plants for main Bi-Modular Charge System (BMCS) plant on its own.

   As per signed contract with M/s IMI, Israel, the target date for commissioning of the main Bi-Modular Charge System (BMCS) plant was September 2011. However, CBI investigations had started in May 2009 against M/s Israeli Military Industries (IMI) and others due to vendors` misconduct relating to illegal gratification.

Denial of Pension benefits to EX-Servicemen.

   Ex-Servicemen with service less than 15 years are not entitled to pension, as it is a mandatory requirement for a Personnel Below Officer Rank to render 15 years and for Commissioned Officers 20 years qualifying service to earn pension. Minimum qualifying service is an essential criterion for pension in the Government.

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

Pension of Defence Personnel

   There has been no undue delay in notifying pension by the Pension Sanctioning Authorities and no abnormal delays have been reported in payment of pension by the Pension Disbursing Agencies i.e. Banks, Treasuries and Defence Pension Disbursing Offices.

   If the payment / pension has not been disbursed by the Bank on receipt of PPO, then as per the guidelines of Reserve Bank of India, interest @2% per month has to be disbursed on the amount due to the pensioners by the paying Bank, wherever delay occurred

Grievance of EX-Servicemen.

   In view of the persistent demand from the Ex-servicemen and their associations, Government constituted a committee headed by Cabinet Secretary in July, 2012 to look into the Pay & Pension related issues of Armed Forces personnel & ex-servicemen.

   The Committee submitted its report dated 17.08.2012 on pension issues, which has been accepted by the Government. The recommendations relate to OROP-Bridging the gap in pension, Enhancement of family pension, Dual Family Pension and Family pension to mentally / physically challenged son/daughter of armed forces personnel on marriage.

Validity of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes(PRCP)/Widow Passes issued to KRCL employees over Indian Railways.

RBE No.132/2012

Government of India
Ministry of Railways
(Railway Board)

E(W)96/PS 5-1/15

Date: 23-11-2012

The General Manager(P)
All Indian Railways &
Production Units.

Sub:- Validity of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes(PRCP)/Widow Passes issued to KRCL employees over Indian Railways.

   Instructions were issued vide Board’s Ietter dated 11 .7.2002 allowing all passes issued to Indian Railway employees to travel over KRCL on reciprocal basis.

Provisions relating to proforma promotion.

No. 6/5/2012-Estt (Pay-II)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training

North Block,
30th  November 2012

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Provisions relating to proforma promotion

   Undersigned is directed to refer to this Department's OM No. 6/8/2009-Estt (Pay-II) dated the 17th  June, 2010 regarding consolidated instructions on deputations. References are being received from Ministries/Departments seeking clarifications/relaxations in respect of provisions which pertain to proforma promotion in these orders or otherwise. The issues have been considered in consultation with the Department of Expenditure, and it has been decided to provide as under:

Strengthening of Vigilance set-up in Ministries/Departments- reg.

No. 425/01/2012-AVD-IV(A)
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pension
Department of Personnel & Training

North Block, New Delhi
30th  November, 2012

 
OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:  Strengthening of Vigilance set-up in Ministries/Departments- reg.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to Department's Office Memorandum No. 372/19/2011-AVD-III(Pt.I) dated 26th  September, 2011 regarding strengthening of vigilance set-up in Ministries/Departments, wherein, on the basis of a recommendation made by the Group of Ministers to tackle Corruption, which was accepted by the Government, all the Ministries/Departments were advised to strengthen their vigilance administration with requisite manpower with a view to ensuring expeditious disposal of disciplinary cases. It was also advised therein to consider, where appropriate, setting up of a monitoring cell in each Ministry/Department to review and monitor the progress of all pending disciplinary cases on a day-to-day basis, with a view to ensuring their timely conclusion.

Is Central Government Employees retirement age raising?

   Is raising retirement age of Central Government Employee a threat for employment prospects of youth ?

   At the end of Every Year people used to talk about the proposal of raising the retirement age of government servants. Normally the people who are at the verge of retirement from government service are eagerly expecting the government to increase the retirement age. The Government servants especially those who are in the pay structure of Pay band –I will have to face financial burden as the Pension amount they will be paid after commutation will be very meager and it is not sufficient enough to meet their expenses of day to day life. Because the Government employees those who are drawing grade pay of Rs.1800/-, 1900/-, 2000/-, 2400/-and 2800/- will get only around Rs.20000 as the gross salary of every month. It is understood that one cannot lead a financially successful life with this income alone. So many government servants, to run the life, forced to avail loans from where ever they can get. At the end, they are badly in debt at the time of retirement.