News and information for Government Employees

News and information for Government Employees
“We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided.”

Friday, 27 February 2015

INDIAN Railway Budget 2015-16 --- Highlights

Highlights of Railway Budget 2015-16

  • No increase in passenger fares
  • SMS alert to be introduced for train timings
  • E-catering introduced in 108 trains, can order on IRCTC website
  • To expand water vending machines on more stations
  • On-board entertainment facility could be extended on Shatabdi trains
  • Mobile charging stations will be introduced general class coaches
  • More general class coaches will be added to select trains for benefit of the common man
  • Railways plans to spend over Rs 8 lakh crore over five years
  • Pension funds, multi-lateral banks have evinced interest in Railways
  • Proposed the best operating ratio in nine years, of 88.5 per cent for 2015-16
  • Railways to go through transformation in five years; to increase track capacity by 10 per cent to 1.38 lakh km
  • To improve cleanliness & design of bed linen
  • All India 24×7 grievances helpline 138 to start soon
  • 7,000 more toilets to be replaced by Bio-Toilets, New toilets at 650 stations, more  vaccum toilets
  • Passenger travelling unreserved  can procure a ticket within 5 minutes
  • Railways will play a big role in socio-economic development of the country
  • Railways carry a big burden of expectations
  • Investments in railways will have multiplier effect
  • Railways facilities have not improved significantly over last few years
  • The cycle of under-investment should end
  • Railways has to regain in share in freight traffic
  • Railways aims to deliver a sustainable improvement in customer experience and make rail a safer means of travel
  • Objective is to make Railways self-sustainable
Source : NDTV

Wednesday, 25 February 2015

Budget 2015 – Basic I-T exemption limit for individuals may go up to Rs 3 lakh and the investment limit for deduction under Section 80C may rise to Rs 2 lakh

According to sources who were privy to the Budget discussions, finance minister Arun Jaitley may also raise the overall personal income tax exemption level by Rs 1 lakh.
While the basic exemption limit for individuals (other than senior citizens) could go up from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh, the investment limit for claiming deduction under Section 80C will increase to Rs 2 lakh from Rs 1.5 lakh at present.
The present higher limits for senior citizens would be correspondingly raised. Sources said that the two measures, together, could result in an annual revenue loss of around Rs 30,000 crore to the government and a corresponding boost to household savings, but added that the revenue loss could be stemmed with the current focus on compliance.
Meanwhile, sources added, the CBDT has identified 35 lakh people who have made substantial transactions but have not filed income tax returns and is slated to send letters and notices to them in the coming months seeking explanations.
This is part of a process to bring more people into the tax net and could give a fillip to revenue mop-up. Jaitley, however, is unlikely to alter the income tax rates in the Budget; while some new tax exemptions are on the anvil, several existing ones are set to be scrapped.

Thursday, 19 February 2015

Granting of MACP benefits as and when the employees become eligible

Dopt Orders on MACP – Granting of MACP benefits as and when the employees become eligible


 
"MACPS are not being granted as per the schedule/provisions in the MACP Scheme leading to dissatisfaction and grievances among the employees. Therefore, Ministries/Departments are advised to ensure strict compliance to the time limits indicated in MACPS for grant of benefits under this scheme as and when the employees become eligible for such benefits".


G.I., Dep. of Per. & Trg., O.M.No.35034/3/2008-Estt. (D), dated 18.2.2015

Subject:-MODIFIED ASSURED CAREER PROGRESSION SCHEME FOR THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES - instructions regarding,

This Department on the recommendation of Sixth Central Pay Commission in Para 6.1.15 of its report and in supersession of previous Assured Career Progression Scheme, vide O.M. No. 35034/3/2008-Estt.(D) dated 19.05.2009 introduced the Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) for the Central Government Civilian Employees which is operational w.e.f. 01.09.2008. MACP Scheme envisages the three financial upgradations at intervals of 10, 20 and 30 years of continuous regular service to all regularly appointed Group “A”, “B”, and “C” Central Government Civilian Employees.

2. As per para 6 of DOPT’s O.M. No. 35034/3/2008-Estt.(D) dated 19.05.2009, the Screening Committee would follow a time-schedule and meet twice in a financial year – preferably in the first week of January and first week of July of a year for advance processing of the cases maturing in that half. Accordingly, cases maturing during the first-half (April-September) of a particular financial year would be taken up for consideration by the Screening Committee meeting in the first week of January. Similarly, the Screening Committee meeting in the first week of July of any financial year would process the cases that would be maturing during the second-half (October-March) of the same financial year.

3. It has come to notice of this Department that the benefits of MACPS are not being granted as per the schedule/provisions in the MACP Scheme leading to dissatisfaction and grievances among the employees. Therefore, Ministries/Departments are advised to ensure strict compliance to the time limits indicated in MACPS for grant of benefits under this scheme as and when the employees become eligible for such benefits.


Thursday, 5 February 2015

GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES FEDERATION's DELEGATION MET 7th CPC on 4th February,2015

Delegation of the GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES FEDERATION, A & N ISLANDS, met the Seventh Central Pay Commission headed by its Chairman, Justice Shri Ashok Kumar Mathur, ChairmanShri Vivek Rae, Member Dr. Rathin Roy, Member Smt. Meena Agarwal, Secretary and other officials at the Conference Hall of Hotel Megapode, Port Blair as per appointment given through e-mail by CPC. In this meeting a PowerPoint presentation given by GEF to explained in detail on Islands based various specific general issues & demands concerning various categories of employees working under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and Central Govt. Department  along with the submission of memorandum. The Hon'ble Chairman also discussed the points which was mention in the 7th CPC   questionnaire and opinion of JCM.
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In this connection a Press Release issued by the President, GEF

PRESS RELEASE



         
        A delegation  of Government Employees Federation led by its  President  Shri. P. Kannan,  met the 7th Central Pay Commission at Megadode Resort, Port Blair on 04.02.2015    at 2.30 p.m. and welcomed the Chairman and his team members and a special welcome to the then Chief  Secretary of A&N Administration Shri. Vivek Ray who is also team member, to A & N Islands. The President Shri. P.Kannan has submitted a Memorandum of  41 Points Common demands of entire Government servants, Department-wise demands of 19 Departments of A&N Administration including one Central Govt. Department of ALHW  and representations submitted by 27  affiliated  service associations  before the Chairman, 7th CPC. The Federation also presented all the demands including 19 departments and 27 service Associations through POWER POINT presentation before the Commission and discussed the demands in person. The Chairman   and Committee members discussed the demands in details. The President Shri. P.Kannan & General Secretary  Shri. S.K.Majumdar have jointly presented justifications of the demands placed and the Chairman and his team members have  accepted almost all the demands placed by  the Federation and assured  of best results.  Finally, Shri. P. Kannan, President GEF on behalf of the delegation expressed hearty gratitude to Chairman and his team members for giving a patient hearing and the assurance given by them.

                The demands presented by the Federation are given below:-



7th CPC GENERAL COMMON DEMAND OF GEF

1.        A Special recommendation is to  be made to bring the  PAY BAND  and GRADE PAY of Govt. Servants of A&N Islands (UT)  at par with Central Government Employees  i.e.  Govt. of NCT, Delhi to remove Anomalies.   At present, the affected Govt. servants are  compelled to approach Court of Law to get the Pay Band  and Grade Pay at par with their counterpart of NCT Delhi.  The 5th CPC had also advised all the UTs to compare  the  anomalies cases only with Delhi. Which was not strictly adhere too.  Since, the employees of A&N Administration are also Central Government Employee, a specific recommendation may be made in the 7th CPC report to avoid Court cases and other incidental problems  faced by  employees of  A&N Administration. This demand will resolve 75% of problems of  Govt. servants.
2.        Enhancement of ACP/MACP Scheme under Assured Carrier Progression from 3 (Three)  Nos. to at-least 4 Nos.   on completion of  8 (Eight) years of regular service.
3.        The MACP scheme introduced by Sixth CPC has not become fruitful  to  many Govt. Servants.  We request to modify  MACP  Scheme benefits as per promotional hierarchy of  a Govt. servant instead of  granting next Grade Pay.
4.        One Foreign Tour to all Central Government Employees  along with  his/her family in the entire period of his/her service, who have completed at-least minimum service of 10 years.
5.        2 (Two)  Leave Travel Concession (LTC) in a Calendar year for all Govt. Servant working in A&N Islands irrespective of Islanders and Mainlanders.
6.        4 (Four)years LTC Block may be modified into 2 year block for all India Tour.
7.        Air Travel entitlement in Helicopter/Plane Services to inter-Islands for Govt. Servants drawing Grade Pay of Rs. 4200/- and above for on duty and LTC. 
8.        Grant of Lowest Class Ship Cabin entitlement to all Group “C” employees of  A&N Administration in ship Journey drawing Grade Pay of Rs. 1800/- .  The 6th CPC had granted 1st  Class / 3rd AC Sleeper Class entitlement in Train Journey but unfortunately  failed to  grant  Lowest Class Cabin entitlement in ship Journey.  This may be granted to poor Govt. servants.
9.        Air Travel Concession to all Government Servants working in A&N Islands at par with North Eastern Region considering the remoteness and only two means of Transport i.e. Ship and Air to visit mainland.
10.     One increment should be awarded to all Central Government employees who retire on 30th June, after rendering one full year of service. Because, the increment Rule says that, a Govt. servant become entitle for an increment  on completion of six months period, but presently deprived  of increment after rendering 12 months  service just because he /she is not in service as on 1st July.
11.      Revision of  “CHILDREN EDUCATION ALLOWANCE & HOSTEL SUBSIDY” at  present cost of living.
12.     “CHILDREN EDUCATION ALLOWANCE & HOSTEL SUBSIDY ”  of children of Government servant is to be extended  for Higher  Technical and Non-Technical Education  too.
13.      25% extra Children Education Allowance & Hostel Subsidy may be granted   to the Government Servants  having one child to promote Small Family Norms.
14.      Enhancement of Transport Allowance as per present Market  Rate.
15.      Enhancement of Daily Allowance of Government Servants on Duty –Cum- Tour as per present Market  Rate.
16.      Enhancement of Uniform Allowances to all  eligible  Govt. employees irrespective of Categories.
17.      Washing Allowance should be increased  as per present Market rate with a special recommendation for employees working in A&N Islands.
18.      ENHANCEMENT OF THE FOLLOWING  ALLOWANCES :-
ISLAND SPECIAL DUTY ALLOWANCE (ISDA)
HARD AREA ALLOWANCE (HAA)
HOUSE RENT ALLOWANCE(HRA)
Existing
Proposed
Existing
Proposed
Existing
Proposed
12.5 %
Port Blair
25 %
Port Blair
25%
40%
20%
30%
20 %
North, Middle & South Andaman
40 %
North, Middle & S/ Andaman


­-


-


-


-
25 %
Southern Group of Islands
50 %
Southern Group of  Islands


-


-


-


-
19.      Special Compensatory Allowance (SCA) benefit is to be extended to Southern Group of  Islands of A&N Islands, who are in receipt of Hard Area Allowance too.
20.      HRA should be granted at par with “X” Class City.
21.      Andaman Special Allowance is to be extended to all Government servants working in A&N Islands, which is now restricted to mainlanders work in  A&N Island.
22.      Overtime Allowance Should be revised at  present market rate and its ceiling of Pay Band and Grade Pay should also be enhanced.
23.      Night Duty Allowance Should be revised at  present market rate and its ceiling of Pay Band and Grade Pay should also be enhanced.
24.      Deputation Allowance is to enhanced from 10% to 20% to Govt. Employees
25.     Cash handling Allowance is to be granted to all staff handling CASH in their respective departments, which is now  restricted to Cashier  only @ Rs. 1500/- per month.
26.     Restoration of 12 days CASUAL LEAVE in a Calendar year as against  8 & 10 days recommended by 6th CPC.
27.      Special bunching of Increment should be done in every 10 years of service of a Govt. Servant.
28.      Restoration of Old Pension Scheme to all Central Govt. Servants, who have been appointed after 01.04.2004.
29.      “CHILD CARE LEAVE” should be allowed to Male Government servants too. Because, the widower is also  taking  Care of his children after death of  his Wife, which is more significant  than a Female Child Care.    
30.      The present 20 days “Half Pay Leave” should be converted into  30 days “Full Pay”  in a calendar year to all Central Government Employees.
31.      Regularization of Ad-hoc, Contract  Services of  employees who have been  appointed after completing all codal formalities like Registration of Employment Exchange/ Proper Interview/ Written test/ Trade test/ or by DPC proceedings.
32.      Introduction of “ANIMAL CARE ALLOWANCE”   to Para-Veterinary Staff just     like “PATIENT CARE ALLOWANCE” is being given to Health Employees. The Para –Veterinary  staff also taking  Care of Animals in Veterinary  Hospitals and also visiting  Houses / location of  Animal to give treatment.
33.      “RISK ALLOWANCE" is to be given to Para-Veterinary Staff of A&N Islands for handling  Animals (Pet and Wild) because they  put their life in Risk.
34.      “RISK ALLOWANCE" is  to be  extended to Employees of Electricity Department of A&N Islands because they work in DANGER AREAS such as,  POWER HOUSES and TRANSMISSION and DISTRIBUTION (T&D). Because, many employees have lost their life while discharging their duties and still employees are working under risk in the said fields.
35.      Medical Check –Up Allowance is to be extended to all  Central Govt. Servants, which is now restricted only to IAS Officers.
36.      Grade Pay of Graduate and Post-Graduate Govt. servants should be hiked in their respective post to boost their morale and to get good achievements.
37.      Non–Practicing Allowance may be extended to Graduate Engineers at par with Doctors.
38.      Grant of  HRA  at par with Port Blair city to  all Govt. servant working in other parts of A&N Islands.
39.      Enhancement  of Festival Advance   from Rs. 4500/- to Rs. 15000/-.
40.      100% Medical re-imbursement should be made to all Government Employees  working in A&N Islands, who take treatment at mainland, which is now restricted  as per approved rate of CGHS. 
41.      Exemption of DA, SCA, ISDA, Hard area Allowance and Children Education allowance  from Income Tax.

DEPARTMENT WISE DEMAND
1.                    DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY AND VETERINARY SERVICE
a.        Grant of Animal Care Allowance at par with Patient Care Allowance / Hospital Patient Care Allowance granted to  Health Department of  A&N Administration and Central Govt. Employees at NCT Delhi.  .
b.        Risk Allowance to Para Veterinary Staff  for handling  Wild and Pet Animals  @ Rs. 1000/- per  month.
c.        Revision of  Staff Structure,  Scale of Pay and Grade of Para Veterinary Staff post- wise as mentioned below to do proper justice and to give actual deserving benefits to them.
                                                          EXISTING
PROPOSED


DESIGNATION
SCALE OF PAY & GRADE PAY
DESIGNATION
SCALE OF PAY &  GRADE PAY
REMARKS
* Veterinary DRESSER

Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs.1800/-.
(Same PB & GP for Entry Grade & 2 Promotional posts )
Veterinary Field Assistant  Gr.- IV
PB : Rs.5200-20200
GP : Rs.2000/-.


Justification given by Association in their submission is enclosed  for reference.
*Veterinary STOCKMAN
Veterinary Field Assistant  Gr.- III
PB : Rs.5200-20200
GP : Rs. 2400/-.
*VETERINARY COMPOUNDER
Veterinary Field Assistant  Gr.- II
Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs. 2800/-.
SENIOR VETERINARY COMPOUNDER
Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs.1900/-
Veterinary Field Assistant  Gr.- I
Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs. 4200/-.
LIVESTOCK SUPERVISOR
Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs. 2400/-
Veterinary Field Supervisor
Rs.5200-20200
GP Rs. 4600/-.

* Note :- The Entry Grade post and two promotional posts carry the same Grade Pay without  any financial benefit.
d.        Up-gradation of  Grade Pay of  Hatchery / Plant Operator  working under Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department, A&N Islands from Rs.1900/-  to Rs. 4200/-.
2.                    COOPERATIVE DEPARTMENT
a.        Grant of Grade Pay of Rs. 5400/-  to ASSISTANT REGISTRAR OF COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES ( ARCS), Cooperative  Department, A&N Administration  from Rs. 4200/-   to bring at par with their counterparts working under NCT Delhi. 
b.        Grant of Grade Pay of Rs. 4200/-  to INSPECTOR  OF COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES of  Cooperative  Department, A&N Administration  from Rs. 2800/-  to bring at par with their counterparts working under NCT Delhi.

3.                    PORT MANAGEMENT BOARD
a.         Re-designation of posts and enhancement of Grade Pay  as per their function  mentioned below :-
  Designation
Existing Grade Pay

Existing strength  of posts
Required strength  of posts
Proposed Grade Pay at par 6th CPC.

Proposed Re-designation as per their function.
MANAGER
Rs. 4600/-
02
02
Rs. 6600/-
General Manager (Traffic )
Superintendent
(Wharf)
Rs. 4200/-
18
06
12
Rs. 5400/-
Rs. 4800/-
i. Assistant  General Manager (Traffic )
ii. Wharf Superintendent Grade-I.
Assistant Shed Master.
Rs. 2800/-
13
13
Rs. 4200/-
Wharf Superintendent Grade-II.
b.        Up-gradation of Grade  Pay of Port Signalers Staff as mentioned below :-

DESIGNATION

EXISTING GRADE PAY

PROPOSED GRADE PAY  FOR 7TH CPC (PRE-REVISED).
MARINE RADIO OPERATOR
Rs. 2400/-
Rs. 4200/-
SUPERVISOR (SIGNAL)
Rs. 2800/-
Rs. 4600/-
SIGNAL SUPERINTENDENT
Rs. 4200/-
Rs. 4800/-

c.        Grant of Hazard / Risk Allowance.
d.        Grant of Dirty Cargo handling Allowance.
e.        Grant of Shift and Night Duty Allowance.
The above  mentioned Allowances may be paid to  A&N Administration Port Employees ( Cargo / Traffic Wing ) at par with their counterparts working under various Ports and other Organizations.
4.                    STAFF CAR DRIVERS  OF A&N ADMINISTRATION
a.        Abolishing of Ratios prescribed for promotion of Staff Car Drivers  specially for A&N Islands. 
b.        Introduction of Insurance Scheme for a minimum amount of Rs. 10 Lakhs.
c.        Revision of  Overtime Allowance at present rate.
d.        Lifting of ceiling of restriction on Overtime Allowances from Rs. 12000/-  for Drivers  for performing Overtime Duties.  
e.        Introduction of Supervisor post in the promotional hierarchy of Staff Car Drivers. 
f.         Introduction of lump sum Uniform Allowance of Rs. 5000/- per Annum for Staff car Drivers.
g.        Driver Cadre may be declared as Technical Cadre to avail Technical Allowance.
h.        One month extra Salary may be paid to Staff Car Drivers, who are not entitled for Overtime Wages.
5.                    ANDAMAN LAKSHADWEEP HARBOUR WORKS, PORT BLAIR.
a.        Revision of Entry Grade Pay  for Graduate Engineers may be enhanced from Rs. 4200/- to Rs. 5400 /- and for non-graduate engineer Rs. 4600/-.
b.        Introduction of Port Crisis Allowance   at par with Risk Allowance.
c.        Non–Practicing Allowance may be extended to Graduate Engineers at par with Doctors.
6.                    DIRECTORATE OF CIVIL SUPPLIES & CONSUMERS AFFAIRS
a.        Up-Gradation of Grade Pay of ASSISTANT DIRECTOR (CS&CA)  from Rs. 4200/- to Rs. 4800/- at par with  their counterpart of Pondicherry  and Food and Supply Officer of  NCT (UT), Delhi.
b.        Up-Gradation of Grade Pay of WEIGHMAN  from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 1900/- at par with their counterpart working under Port Management Board of A&N Administration.
7.                    ELECTRICITY DEPARTMENT.
a.      Grant of “RISK ALLOWANCE" to  Electricity  employees working  in DANGER AREAS such as,  POWER HOUSES, POWER TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION (T&D) and Jungles etc. including bad weather and disaster.
b.      Introduction of  Insurance Scheme for the employees working in danger areas such as,  POWER HOUSES, POWER TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION (T&D) and Jungles etc. including bad weather and disaster.
c.       Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “SWITCH BOARD-CUM-ENGINE OPERATOR” (SBEO) of Electricity Department, A&N Islands from Rs. 1900/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with  Electrician of Govt. Press, Fisheries Dept. and Dept. of Environment & Forest of A&N Administration.
d.      Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “ FITTER (Electrical)  of Electricity Department, A&N Islands from Rs. 1900/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with  Electrician of Govt. Press, Fisheries Dept., Dept. of Shipping and Dept. of Environment & Forest of A&N Administration.
e.      Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “ FITTER (Mechanical)  of Electricity Department, A&N Islands from Rs. 1900/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with  Mechanic of Govt. Press, Police Dept., A&N Administration.
f.        Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “ LINEMAN”  of Electricity Department, A&N Islands from Rs. 1900/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with  Electrician of Govt. Press, Fisheries Dept., Dept. of Shipping and Dept. of Environment & Forest of A&N Administration.
g.      Revision of Grade Pay of Mazdoors working in Electricity Department (Essential service) from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 2000/-.
  
8.                    ANDAMAN PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

a.        Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “Work Assistant” post from Rs. 2400/- to 4200/- to bring at par Diploma Junior Engineers.
b.        Up-Gradation of Grade Pay of  Surveyors and Draughtsman Grade-III from Rs. 2400/- to Rs. 2800/-.
c.        Up-Gradation of  Grade Pay of  “Ferro Printers” of APWD from Rs. 1900/- to 2000/- to bring at with their counterpart working in CPWD.
d.        Implementation of Planning Allowance to all Junior Engineers irrespective of their qualification.
9.                    TRANSPORT  DEPARTMENT

a.        Up-gradation of Grade Pay of “BUS CONDUCTOR” posts of  Transport Department, A&N Administration from Rs. 1800/- to Rs.  1900/- to bring  par with their Counterpart working at NCT Delhi and Pondicherry. 
b.        Up-gradation of Grade Pay of “ CLERK-CUM-CHECKING INSPECTOR” posts of  Transport Department, A&N Administration from Rs. 1900/- to Rs.  2400/-  to bring  par with their Counterpart working at NCT Delhi and Pondicherry. 

10.                 HEALTH DEPARTMENT

a.      Revision of Grade Pay of  Health Worker (Male) from Rs. 2000/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with their counterpart working at NCT, Delhi.
b.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of  Cooks of Health Department from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with their counterpart working  in APWD Establishment, Raj Niwas etc., of A&N Administration.
c.      Implementation of Risk / Health Hazard Allowance to Staff Nurse,  Safaikarmachari, Aayas and Ward Attendants  etc. @ of 10% of  Pay Band plus Grade Pay being  handling with Patients suffering from contagious &  communicable Diseases like Swine flu, Bird Flu, TB,  HIV (Aids) etc..
d.      Enhancement of issue of Uniforms to   Safaikarmachari,  Aayas and Ward Attendants  etc. from 1 pair to 2 pairs (Teri cotton cloth) per year as it is cheaper than the Cotton cloth.
e.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of    Safaikarmachari,  Aayas and Ward Attendants from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 1900/-.
f.        Up-gradation of Grade Pay of    Surveillance Worker of Malaria Dept.  from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 1900/- at par with Lakshadweep (UT).
g.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of Chief Pharmacists  from Rs. 4800/- to Rs. 5400/-.
h.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of Operation Theatre (OT) Attendant Rs. 1900/- to Rs. 2400/-.
i.        One month extra Salary for  Health Staff  for attending emergency  cases and   essential service duties in the Hospitals.
j.        Non–Practicing Allowance may be extended to  Nursing Staff at par with Doctors.
k.       Up-gradation of Grade Pay of  all LABORATORY STAFF as mentioned below:-


DESIGNATION
EXISTING GRADE PAY
PROPOSED GRADE PAY  FOR 7TH CPC (PRE-REVISED).
LABORATORY ASSISTANT
Rs. 2000/-
Rs. 4200/-
LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Rs. 2800/-
Rs. 4800/-
SENIOR LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Rs. 4200/-
Rs. 5400/-
TECHNICAL ASSISTANT
Rs. 4600/-
Rs. 6600/-
  


11.                 GOVERNMENT INDUSTRIAL TRAINING INSTITUTE (ITI)
a.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of “VOCATIONAL INSTRUCTORS” Rs. 4200/- to Rs. 4800/- at par with Post graduate Teachers of Education Department, A&N Administration.
b.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of “WORKSHOP ATTENDANTS” from  Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 2400/- at par with their counterpart of Govt. Polytechnic,  A&N Administration.
c.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of  Cooks of ITI  from Rs. 1800/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring at par with their counterpart working  in APWD Establishment, Raj Niwas etc., of A&N Administration.

12.                 CLERICAL CADRE STAFF  OF A&N ADMINISTRATION
a.       Up-gradation of Grade Pay of  Clerical  Cadre Staff of A&N  Administration. As mentioned below :-

DESIGNATION
EXISTING GRADE PAY
PROPOSED GRADE PAY  FOR 7TH CPC (PRE-REVISED).
LOWER GRADE CLERK
Rs. 1900/-
Rs. 2800/-
HIGHER GRADE CLERK
Rs. 2400/-
Rs. 4200/-
HEAD GRADE CLERK
Rs. 4200/-
Rs. 4800/-
OFFICE SUPERINTENDENT
Rs. 4200/-
Rs. 5400/-
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
Rs. 4600/-
Rs. 6600/-
DEPUTY SECRETARY
Rs. 5400/-
Rs. 7600/-

13.                 EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

a.        Grant of  Grade  Pay of  Physical Education Teachers (PETs) at par with Teaching Staff.
14.                 INDUSTRIES DEPARTMENT
a.       Revision of Scale of Pay and Grade of  Sagarika Govt. Emporium Staff  to bring at Par with their Counterpart working under  Delhi Emporium (DSIIDC) Delhi (UT).

PROPOSED SCALE OF PAY and GRADE PAY FOR SEVENTH CPC (PRE-REVISED)

                          Existing
Proposed
Remark
Sl. No.
Designation
Sagarika Govt. Emporium
A&N Administration  (UT)
Delhi Emporium, DSIIDC
Delhi (UT)

Justification given by Association in their  letter is enclosed  for reference.
1
Sales Assistant
PB Rs. 5200-Rs20200
GP- Rs. 1900
Rs. 5200-Rs 20200 GP-Rs. 2400
2
Senior  Sales Assistant
PB Rs. 5200-Rs20200
GP- Rs. 2400
Rs. 9300-Rs 34800 GP-Rs. 4200
3
Manager
PB Rs. 5200-Rs20200
GP- Rs. 2800
Rs. 9300-Rs 34800 GP- Rs. 4800
4
Senior Manager
PB Rs. 9300-Rs 34800
GP-Rs. 4200
Rs.15600-Rs 39100 GP-Rs. 5400
a.       Up-gradation of Grade  Pay of Laboratory In-charge of Industries department from Rs. 2800/- to Rs. 4200/- to bring at par with Laboratory Technicians of Govt. Polytechnic  (BRAIT) of A&N Administration.
15.                 JAIL DEPARTMENT 
a.        Grant of Grade of Rs. 2400/- to Craft Instructor, Jail Department from Rs. 1900/- to bring at par with their counterpart working in Industries Department of same  A&N Administration.
16.                 FOREST DEPARTMENT
a.      Removal of anomaly in Grade Pay of NAIB TEHSIDAR post working under Forest Department   from Rs. 2800/- to Rs. 4200/- to bring  at par with DEPUTY TEHSILDAR of Revenue Department of A&N Administration. 
b.       Removal of anomaly in Grade Pay of SURVEYOR post working under Forest Department   from Rs. 2000/- to Rs. 2400/- to bring  at par with their counterparts working in  Revenue Department, Andaman Public Works Department, Electricity Department, Agriculture Department and Fisheries Department of A&N Administration. 
17.                 FISHERIES DEPARTMENT
a.      Up-gradation of Grade Pay of  Fisheries Inspectors of Fisheries Department from Rs. 2400/- to Rs. 4200/- to bring at par with their counterpart working at other UTs and States to remove anomaly. It would be appropriate to mention here that, the 3 years Graduate level posts have been up-graded to Rs. 4200/-. Whereas, the Fisheries Inspector who have undergone 4 years Degree/Graduation were granted lower Grade Pay of Rs. 2400/-. Thus, there Grade Pay may also be brought at par with Graduates Grade pay i.e. Rs. 4200/-. 
 
18.                  Dr. B R Ambedkar Institute of Technology

a.        MACP may be awarded in the Promotional Grade.
b.        For counting qualifying service the ad-hoc service may be also be  merged for  awarding MACP and other service benefits.
c.        For awarding MACP the period may be reduced from 10 yrs., 20 yrs. And 30 yrs. to 8 yrs. , 16 yrs., 24 yrs. and last 32 years.
d.        8 days CL may be up-graded to 10 days.
e.        One additional increment for enhancing the qualification for Laboratory / Workshop Staffs.
f.         Pay protection for Ad-hoc employees consequent on their regular appointment in the existing posts.
g.        Age limit may be standardized for all Gr. ‘C’ and Gr.’B’  Category between 18 years and 35 years .
h.        Over time allowance is required to revise.
i.         Revision of Night duty allowance, honorarium etc.
j.         Merging of Personal pay along with Basic Pay.
k.        Rate of annual increment may be increased from 3% to 5%.
l.         TSMs  may be granted other service benefits viz., LTC, EL , Tuition fee re-imbursement , MACPS and introducing NPS etc.

S.No.
Name of the post
Category
Present Pay Band and GP
Proposed Pay Band and GP
Reason for changes proposed
1.
Foreman
Gr.’B’
PB-2 +GP Rs.4600
PB-2+GP Rs.5400/-
For the post of Foreman it is proposed to have a uniform pay scale and at par with NCT of Delhi
2.
Programmer
Gr.’B’
PB-2 + GP Rs.4200
PB-2 +GP Rs.4800/-
As proposed in the Model RR in DOPT’s OM  No.AB-14017/2/ 2011-Estt (RR) dt. 30.05.2014
3.
Computer Instructor
Gr. ‘C’
PB-1 + GP Rs.2800
PB-2 + GP Rs.4200
The post is required to upgraded to Gr.’B’ category and it should be  treated at par with Instructor / Lab Technicians
4.
Physical Training Instructor
Gr. ‘C’
PB-1 + GP Rs.2400
PB-2 +GP Rs.4600
The post is required to be treated at par with PET of Education Department
5.
Workshop Lab Asst.
Gr. ‘C’
PB-1 + GP Rs.1800
PB-1 + GP Rs.2400
This post is required to be treated at par with the Lab  Asst. in the Education Department

6.
Ferro printer
Gr.’C’
PB-1 + GP Rs.1900
PB-1 + GP Rs.2400
This being the promotional post of Daftari
7.
Daftari
Gr.’C’
PB-1 +GP Rs.1800
PB-1 + GP Rs.2000
This is the promotional post of peon. It is required to have higher GP.
8.
Cook
Gr. ‘C’
PB-1 + GP Rs.1800
PB-1 + GP Rs.2000
Cooking foods in hostel in bulk quantity for students. To honor their works it is essential
9.
Heavy Vehicle Driver
Gr.’C’
PB-1 +GP Rs.1900
PB-1 + GP Rs.2000
This is due the reason that for obtaining Heavy vehicle license three years driving experience required in Light Vehicle Driver. So it should be placed above the LVD Pay scale.
10.
Carpenter, Plumber, Painter, Motor Mechanic, Electric-cum- Genset operator
Gr. ‘C’
PB-1 +GP Rs.1900
PB-1 + GP Rs.2400
These posts are earmarked as  technical posts.
19.   INFORMATION PUBLICITY  & TOURISM DEPARTMENT
a.        Revision of pay structure of workman working under the IP&T Dept.  and drawing Basic Pay Rs.4440/- plus Grade Pay of  Rs 1300 + Dearness Allowance into at par with Group “C” regular Govt. Employees, who have been working in the Department for more than 20 years. All the benefits of a regular Govt. Employee should be granted to them.

Sd/-
P.KANNAN
PRESIDENT
Govt. Employees Federation
A&N Islands.

*******************************************************************************************************************

Answer of Questionnaires submitted by GEF



                         Ref. No. : GEF/ANI/2014/46                                                 Date :   20. 05. 2014

To

Ms Meena Agarwal
Secretary, 7th Central pay Commission,
Post Box No. 4599, Hauz Khas PO,
New Delhi- 110016.


Subject :- Submission of suggestions and Answers on 7th CPC   questionnaire-  reg.

Ref. No. :- Public Notice  of questionnaires.


Respected Madam,
                                    We take the pleasure to submit our Suggestions and answers  on the 7th CPC questionnaires  asked for through Public Notice for your kind perusal and to take appropriate decision for the welfare of Central Government Employees.

1. SALARIES

1.1 The considerations on which the minimum Salary in case of the lowest Group ‘C’ functionary and the maximum salary in case of a Secretary level officer may be determined and what should be the reasonable ratio between the two.

Ans. :  The lowest Salary as well as highest Salary of all categories of  Central Govt. Employees should be determined by minimum multiplication factor of 2.3  based on their basic pay become due  as on 01.01.2016. There should not be any discrimination, as it was done in the 6th CPC i.e. 1.86 for lower employees and 3.00 to highest employees.   

1.2 What should be the considerations for determining salary for various levels of functions falling between the highest level and the lowest level functionaries?

Ans.: Salary for various levels of functions falling between the highest and the lowest level functionaries should be determined by applying the ratio of 1:6. However, the Executive Employees Salary should be increased as compared to Ministerial Employees. Further, we suggest that, special hike in  salary should  not be entertained for lower categories of employees merely on the ground of their dedicated services rendered to public.  In place of that, they should be granted special allowances  and packages for their dedicated work and  skilled work etc..  

2. COMPARISONS

2.1 Should there be any comparison/parity between pay scales and perquisites between Government and the private sector? If so, why? If not, why not?

Ans.: The Pay Scales of Government Servants should be higher than that of any Private Sector undertakings. Because, the talented youths  and good gem of  our Nation are mainly attracted with Salary and perquisites given to them. As a result, we are losing talented youths  in Nation building.

2.2 Should there at all be any comparison/parity between pay scales and perquisites between Government and the public sector? If so, why? If not, why not?

Ans.: Our reply is same as given in 2.

2.3 The concept of variable pay has been introduced in Central Public Sector Enterprises by the Second Pay Revision Committee. In the case of the Government is there merit in introducing a variable component of pay? Can such variable pay be linked to performance?

Ans.: We also agree with the recommendation of Second Pay Revision Committee. This should be seriously taken into consideration and it should be linked with performance by giving special allowances.

3. ATTRACTING TALENT

3.1 Does the present compensation package attract suitable talent in the All India Services & Group A Services? What are your observations and suggestions in this regard?

Ans. : The present compensation package is sufficient to attract suitable talent in the All India Services & Group A Services. However, we recommend a little hike in their compensation package.

3.2 To what extent should government compensation be structured to attract special talent?

Ans.: It should be hiked to 10-15 %  based on flexible service conditions.

4. PAY SCALES

4.1 The 6th Central Pay Commission introduced the system of Pay Bands and Grade Pay as against the system of specific pay scales attached to various posts. What has been the impact of running pay bands post implementation of 6th CPC recommendations?

Ans.: We appreciate the Pay Bands and Grade Pay system introduced by 6th CPC, but a little changes are required in lower level and middle level (i.e. PB-1 and PB-2 ). The corresponding/promotional Grade Pay should be healthy and respectable. The lower level staff drawing PB-1 are getting Grade Pay of Rs. 1800, 1900, 2000 and 2400 respectively under  MACP Scheme of 10, 20 and 30 years of service of regular service. Similarly, a middle class employee drawing PB-2 are getting Grade Pay of Rs. 4200, 4600, 4800 and  5400 respectively under  MACP Scheme of 10, 20 and 30 years of service of regular service. The PB-2 categories of  post are mostly either Managerial or Supervisory posts other than some technical posts.  This is in fact not justified. There must be good differences in grade pay as given in higher level.

4.2  Is there any need to bring about any change?

Ans.: Yes, changes are required in Grade Pays of PB-1 and PB-2.

4.3 Did the pay bands recommended by the Sixth CPC help in arresting exodus and attract talent towards the Government?

Ans. :  Yes, but still there is some lacuna as answered  under item No. 4.1 and 4.2.  Further, our suggestions will  help to strengthen the recommendations of 7th CPC.

4.4 Successive Pay Commissions have reduced the number of pay scales by merging one or two pay scales together. Is there a case for the number of pay scales/ pay band to be rationalized and if so in what manner?

Ans.: We suggest to merge the Grade Pay of Rs. 1900 & 2000 in PB-1, Rs.2800 & 4200 in PB-1& PB-2 and Rs. 4600 & 4800 in PB-2.

4.5 Is the “grade pay” concept working? If not, what are your alternative suggestions?

Ans.: Yes,  but shall be fruitful if the suggestion of  merger the Grade Pay of Rs. 1900 & 2000 in PB-1, Rs.2800 & 4200 in PB-1& PB-2 and Rs. 4600 & 4800 in PB-2 are taken into consideration. 

5. INCREMENT

5.1 Whether the present system of annual increment on 1st July of every year uniformly in case of all employees has served its purpose or not? Whether any changes are required?

Ans.:  No, it should be start with 1st January of every year. Further, one increment should be given to an employee who retires on 31st December.  

5.2 What should be the reasonable quantum of annual increment?

Ans.: The present 3%  increment should be increased to minimum 5%.

5.3 Whether there should be a provision of variable increments at a rate higher than the normal annual increment in case of high achievers? If so, what should be transparent and objective parameters to assess high achievement, which could be uniformly applied across Central Government?

Ans.:  One additional increment should be given to talented and high achievers.  A committee should be constituted in  every department of State and UTs, in which at least two member should be employee representatives.   If the committee found an employees work Excellent or Outstanding should be considered for such increment.

5.4 Under the MACP scheme three financial up-gradations are allowed on completion of 10, 20, 30 years of regular service, counted from the direct entry grade. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the scheme? Is there a perception that a scheme of this nature, in some Departments, actually incentivizes people who do not wish to take the more arduous route of qualifying departmental examinations/ or those obtaining professional degrees?
                      
Ans.: The MACP scheme is not sufficient or fruitful  to employees renderer good service. It should be increased from 3 to 4 in normal case and one more promotional benefit i.e. 5 MACP should be given to talented and high achiever in regular interval of 8 years.

6. PERFORMANCE

What kind of incentives would you suggest to recognize and reward good performance?

Ans.: One additional increment should be given to Talented work or High Achievers.  A committee should be constituted in  every department of State and UTs, in which at least two member should be employee representatives.   If the committee found an employees work Excellent or Outstanding should be considered for such increment.

7. IMPACT ON OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

Salary structures in the Central and State Governments are broadly similar. The recommendations of the Pay Commission are likely to lead to similar demands from employees of State Governments, municipal bodies, Panchayati Raj institutions & autonomous institutions. To what extent should their paying capacity be considered in devising a reasonable remuneration package for Central Govt. employees?

Ans.: The Salary and Wages structure given to Central Govt. Employees should be at par with the post held, irrespective of Organization of Central / State Government. 

8. DEFENCE FORCES

8.1 What should be the considerations for fixing salary in case of Defence personnel and in what manner does the parity with civil services need to be evolved, keeping in view their respective job profiles?

Ans.: We have no comments or objections on the decisions of Pay Commission as well as Central Government. 

8.2 In what manner should the concessions and facilities, both in cash and kind, be taken into account for determining salary structure in case of Defence Forces personnel.

Ans.: Refer answer given in 8.1.

8.3 As per the November 2008 orders of the Ministry of Defence, there are a total of 45 types of allowances for Personnel Below Officer Rank and 39 types of allowances for Officers. Does a case exist for rationalization/ streamlining of the current variety of allowances?

Ans.: Refer answer given in 8.1.

8.4 What are the options available for addressing the increasing expenditure on defence pensions?

Ans.: Refer answer given in 8.1.

8.5 As a measure of special recognition, is there a case to review the present benefits provided to war widows?
Ans.: Refer answer given in 8.1.

8.6 As a measure of special recognition, is there a case to review the present benefits provided to disabled soldiers, commensurate to the nature of their disability?

Ans.: Refer answer given in 8.1.

9. ALLOWANCES

9.1 Whether the existing allowances need to be retained or rationalized in such a manner as to ensure that salary structure takes care not only of the job profile but the situational factors as well, so that the number of allowances could be at a realistic level?

Ans.: We suggest to  retain all the existing Allowances and also suggest to increase the percentage of HRA from 20% to 30%, ISDA minimum 25%, Hard Area Allowances minimum 30 %. All the Allowances except DA should be exempted from Income Tax.

9.2 What should be the principles to determine payment of House Rent Allowance?

Ans.: HRA should be minimum of 30%  to Port Blair City or at par with “A” Class City as a special case, keeping in view of market rate and cost of living at Port Blair City.

10. PENSION

10.1 The retirement benefits of all Central Government employees appointed on or after 1.1.2004 a re covered by the New Pension Scheme(NPS). What has been the experience of the NPS in the last decade?

Ans.: New Pension Scheme should be abolished and the Old Pension System should be retained in the largest interest of Government servants.

10.2 As far as pre-1.1.2004 appointees are concerned, what should be the principles that govern the structure of pension and other retirement benefits?

Ans.: We suggest the same principal and pattern of Pension scheme to be adopted of pre- 1.1.2004.

11. Strengthening the public governance system
11.1 The 6th CPC recommended upgrading the skills of the Group D employees and placing them in Group C over a period of time. What has been the experience in this regard?

Ans.: Decision of 6th CPC was good but still required periodical in-service training for skill development and up-gradation for  promotion to function as skilled Group “C” Employees.

11.2 In what way can Central Government organizations functioning be improved to make them more efficient, accountable and responsible? Please give specific suggestions with respect to:

a) Rationalization of staff strength and more productive deployment of available staff;
b)Rationalization of processes and reduction of paper work; and
c) Economy in expenditure.

Ans.: a) Staff strength should be increased or decreased based on the work load / requirement of  all Organisation’s for smooth functioning. Which should be surveyed / reviewed periodically at an interval of 5 (five) years. This is also possible through re-structuring of employees cadre. And for increase of productivity and development of the Organsiation workers should be given appropriate training from time to time.
b) We suggest to implement single file system and reduce the number of channel of process and also reduction of paper works by adopting modern technology and technical know-how.  
c) Unwanted Expenditure  should be curtailed. And motivation should be given to such Organization minimize the expenditures. Modern technologies should be introduced to control the expenditure. Paper work  is to be reduced. Replacement of old machineries, equipments etc.  are to be done 

12. TRAINING/ BUILDING COMPETENCE

12.1 How would you interpret the concept of “competency based framework”?

Ans.: Citizen Charter should be strictly implemented and responsibility should be fixed on the concerned Officers.

12.2 One of the terms of reference suggests that the Commission recommend appropriate training and capacity building through a competency based framework.

a) Is the present level of training at various stages of a person’s career considered adequate? Are there gaps that need to be filled, and if so, where?

Ans.: Not sufficient,  induction Training should be given to all Govt. Employees at the time of entering into Govt. Job and time to time trainings and refresher courses  be conducted on post basis to get good output.     

b) Should it be made compulsory that each civil service officer should in his career span acquire a professional qualification? If so, can the nature of the study, time intervals and the Institution(s) whose qualification are acceptable, all be stipulated?
           
Ans.: Yes,  professional qualification is compulsory in Civil Service Officers to perform their duties more efficiently. Qualification certificate obtained from a recognized Institution should be entertained. 

c) What other indicators can best measure training and capacity building for personnel in your organization? Please suggest ways through which capacity building can be further strengthened?

Ans.: Latest technical know-how training and other refresher courses will boost the work culture and  good governance of an employee in capacity building.

13. OUTSOURCING

13.1 What has been the experience of outsourcing at various levels of Government and is there a case for streamlining it?

Ans.: We do not recommend for outsourcing at various level because of non- accountability  and responsibility.

13.2 Is there a clear identification of jobs that can be outsourced?

Ans.: Yes, we do agree for outsourcing, where lacking of required qualified personnel’s  for a special nature of Job.

14. REGULATORY BODIES
14.1 Kindly list out the Regulators set up under Acts of Parliament, related to your Ministry/ Department. The total number of personnel on rolls (Chairperson and members + support personnel) may be indicated.

14.2 Regulators that may not qualify in terms of being set up under Acts of Parliament but perform regulatory functions may also be listed. The scale of pay for Chairperson /Members and other personnel of such bodies may be indicated.
14.3 Across the Government there are a host of Regulatory bodies set up for various purposes. What are your suggestions regarding emoluments structure for Regulatory bodies?

Ans.: For point No. 14.1 to 14.3, we do agree with the decision recommended and taken by the Pay Commission and Central Government. Thus, we have no suggestion as such.

15. PAYMENT OF BONUS
One of the terms of reference of the 7th Pay Commission is to examine the existing schemes of payment of bonus. What are your suggestions and observations in this regard?

Ans.: We suggest minimum adhoc Bonus of Rs. 10000/= for all Central Govt. Servants up to Group “B”.  However, the Productively Link Bonus scheme may continue as it is.
Thanking You.
Your faithfully,
Sd/_
S.K.MAJUMDAR
GENERAL SECRETARY
e-mail : majumdar_swapankumar@yahoo.co.in