Regarding tests / investigations at private hospitals / diagnostic laboratories / imaging centres empanelled under CGHS.

S-11045/40/2012/CGHS/HEC/CGHS (P)
Government of India
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Department of Health & Family Welfare

Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi
Dated the 22nd February, 2013

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Regarding tests / investigations at private hospitals / diagnostic laboratories / imaging centres empanelled under CGHS

   The undersigned is directed to refer to the Office Memorandum of even no. dated 1st January, 2013 on the above subject wherein it has been provided under Para 3 that the serving government employees / CGHS beneficiaries shall submit medical prescription in original while claiming reimbursement of expenses incurred on diagnostic tests and investigations, from their office. Keeping in view the inconvenience and difficulties faced by the serving employees / CGHS beneficiaries in submission of prescription in original, it has been decided to relax the above condition and to allow a self attested photocopy of the medical prescription to claim reimbursement of medical expenses incurred on getting diagnostic tests / investigations carried out from a CGHS empanelled hospital / diagnostic laboratory / imaging centre on a valid prescription issued by a CGHS Medical Officer / Govt. Specialist, without a permission letter issued from the Department concerned.

   2. The Serving beneficiaries will not require any permission from their Department for getting the diagnostic tests / investigations carried out in a CGHS empanelled private hospital /diagnostic laboratory / imaging centre in respect of investigations for which CGHS rates are available. They will get the prescribed tests done on payment basis and claim reimbursement from their Office. However, the serving employees of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare are eligible for credit facility from the CGHS empanelled private hospitals / diagnostic laboratories and imaging centres in terms of this Ministry’s OM No. Rec. 1-2008/Gr./CGHS/Delhi/CGHS (P) dated 10.06.2008.

   3. The medical prescription issued by a CGHS Medical Officer / Government Specialist prescribing diagnostic tests / investigations shall be treated as valid for a single use within a period of two weeks from the date of prescription. However the medical prescription shall remain valid beyond two weeks for undertaking diagnostic tests / investigations if specifically prescribed by the CGHS doctor / Government Specialist about the date or period by which the prescribed tests are to be conducted for a routine check up or follow up treatment. The medical prescription would require revalidation or issue of a fresh prescription from the prescribing CGHS doctor/Government Specialist for getting the prescribed tests done after expiry of the validity period of two weeks or as prescribed by the CGHS doctor / Govt. Specialist, as the case may be.

sd/-
[V.P.Singh]
Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

Source:http://msotransparent.nic.in/writereaddata/cghsdata/mainlinkfile/File578.pdf

Highlights of Railway Budget 2013-14

 

·        67 new Express trains to be introduced

·        26 new passenger services, 8 DEMU services and 5 MEMU services to be introduced

·        Run of 57 trains to be extended

·        Frequency of 24 trains to be increased

·        First AC EMU rake to be introduced  on Mumbai suburban network in 2013-14

·        72 additional services to be introduced in Mumbai and 18 in Kolkata

·        Rake length increased from 9 cars to 12 cars for 80 services in Kolkata and 30 services in Chennai

·        500 km new lines, 750 km doubling, 450 km gauge conversion targeted in 2013-14
 
·        First ever rail link to connect Arunachal Pradesh

·        Some Railway related activities to come under MGNREGA

·        For the first time 347 ongoing projects identified as priority projects with the committed funding

 
·        Highest ever plan outlay of Rs. 63,363 crore

·        Loan of Rs. 3000 crore repaid fully.

·         A new fund-Debt Service Fund set up to meet committed liabilities.

·        Freight loading of 1047 MT, 40 MT more than 2012-13

·        Passenger growth 5.2% in 2013-14

·        Gross Traffic Receipts – Rs. 1,43,742 crore i.e. an increase of 18,062 crore over RE, 2012-13

·        Dividend payment estimated at Rs. 6,249 crore

·        Operating Ratio to be 87.8% in 2013-14
 
·        Supplementary charges for super fast trains, reservation fee, clerkage charge, cancellation charge and tatkal charge marginally increased

·        Fuel Adjustment Component linked revision for freight tariff to be implemented from 1st April 2013

·        Enhanced reservation fee abolished

·        Elimination of 10797 Level Crossings (LC) during the 12th Plan and no addition of new LCs henceforth

·        Introduction of 160/200 kmph Self Propelled Accident Relief Trains

·        ‘Aadhar’ to be used for various passenger and staff related services

·        Internet ticketing from 0030 hours to 2330 hours

·        E-ticketing through mobile phones

·        Project of SMS alerts to passengers providing updates on reservation status

·        Next –Gen e-ticketing system to be rolled out : capable of handling 7200 tickets per minute against 2000 now,  1.20 lakh users simultaneously against 40,000 now

·        Introduction of executive lounge at 7 more stations: Bilaspur, Visakhapatnam, Patna, Nagpur, Agra, Jaipur and Bengaluru

·        Introduction of ‘Azadi Express’ to connect places associated with freedom movement

·        Four companies of women RPF personnel set up and another 8 to be set up to strengthen the security of rain passengers, especially women passengers

·        10% RPF vacancies being reserved for women

·        1.52 lakh vacancies being filled up this year out of which 47000 vacancies have been earmarked for weaker sections and physically challenged

·        Railways to impart skills to the youth in railway related trades in 25 locations

·        Provision of portable fire extinguishers in Guard-cum-Brake Vans, AC Coaches and Pantry Cars in all trains

·        Pilot project on select trains to facilitate passengers to contact on board staff through SMS/phone call/e-mail for coach cleanliness and real time feedback

·        Provision of announcement facility and electronic display boards in trains

·        Providing free Wi-Fi facilities on several trains

·        Upgrading 60 stations as Adarsh Stations in addition to 980 already selected

·        Introduction of an ‘Anubhuti’ coach in select trains to provide excellent ambience and latest facilities and services

·        179 escalators and 400 lifts at A-1 and other major stations to be installed facilitating elderly and differently-abled

·         Affixing Braille stickers with layout of coaches including toilets, provision of wheel chairs and battery operated vehicles at more stations and making coaches wheel-chair friendly

·        Centralized Catering Services Monitoring Cell set up with a toll free number (1800 111 321)

·        Complimentary card passes to recipients of Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna & Dhyan Chand Awards to be valid for travel by 1st Class/2nd AC

·        Complimentary card passes to Olympic Medalists and Dronacharya Awardees for travel in Rajdhani/Shatabadi Trains

·        Travel by Duronoto Trains permitted on all card passes issued to sportspersons having facility of travel by Rajdhani/Shatabadi Trains

·        Facility of complimentary card passes valid in 1st class/2nd AC extended to parents of posthumous unmarried awardees of Mahavir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, President’s Police Medal for Gallantry and policy medal for Gallantry

·         Policy Gallantry awardees to be granted one complimentary pass every year for travel along with one companion in 2nd AC in Rajdhani/Shatabadi Trains

·        Passes for freedom fighters to be renewed once in three years instead of every year.

·        Setting up of six more Rail Neer bottling plants at Vijayawada, Nagpur, Lalitpur, Bilaspur, Jaipur and Ahmedabad

·        Setting up of a multi-disciplinary training institute at Nagpur for training in rail related electronics technologies

·        Setting up of a centralized training institute at Secunderabad--Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management

·        Five fellowships in national universities to be instituted to motivate students to study and undertake research on Railway related issues at M.Phil and Ph.D. levels

·        Fund allocation for staff quarters enhanced to Rs. 300 crore

·        Provision of hostel facilities for single women railway employees at all divisional headquarters

·        Provision of water closets and air conditioners in the locomotive cabs to avoid stress being faced by loco pilots

Railway to Introduce Next Generation E-Ticketing System.

   The Minister of Railways Shri Pawan Kumar Bansal has that his Ministry will put in place a Next Generation e-ticketing system to bring about a paradigm shift in internet rail ticketing. Presenting the Railway Budget for 2013-14 in Parliament today he said, the new system will significantly improve the end user experience in respect of ease of use, response time as well as capacity. He said, the new system shall be able to support 7200 tickets per minute as against 2000 tickets per minute at present. It will support 1, 20,000 simultaneous users at any point in time against the present capacity of 40,000 users with capability to easily scale up as demand increases in future. The Minister said, the system will make use of advanced fraud control and security management tools thereby further improving fairness and transparency in disbursal of tickets.

   The Minister also announced several IT initiatives for the benefit of passengers. These are:

   i.    Extending availability of the facility of internet ticketing from 0030 hours to 2330 hours;

   ii.    Making e-ticketing possible through mobile phones;

   iii.    As a follow up to overwhelming response to Indian Railway website and Integrated Train Enquiry Service under “139”, a project of SMS Alerts to passengers providing updates on reservation status is being rolled out shortly;

   iv.    Covering larger number of trains under Real Time Information System (RTIS), whereby rail-users will be able to access information through nominated websites and mobile phones.

PIB

Earmarking of accommodation for On-board Housekeeping Staff (OBHS)

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(RAILWAY BOARD)

No.2013/TG-I/20/P/OBHS

New Delhi, dated 22.02.2013

General Managers,
All Zonal Railways.

(COMMERCIAL CIRCULAR NO.15 OF 2013)

Sub: Earmarking of accommodation for On-board Housekeeping Staff (OBHS)

Ref: Railway Board’s letters

   (a) No.2006/M(C)/165/9 dated 01.10.2007, 04.08.2009, 17.07.2009 and 19.07.2010

   (b) No.95/M(C)/141/1 Vol.II dated 21/28.05.2010

   Instructions have been issued by Board for implementation of On-board Housekeeping Scheme on Rajdhani/ Shatabdi/Duronto and important (Mail/Express trains vide letters under reference, In OBHS Scheme, a set of housekeeping staff travels on-board and carries out cleaning activities of coach compartments and toilets.

   2. The issue regarding earmarking of accommodation for OBHS staff has been examined by Board and it has been decided to earmark two berths/seats for them as under:-

   (i) Last two side berths/last two seats of the lowest reserved class available in the train should be earmarked for OBHS staff e.g., in the train having Sleeper Class as the lowest accommodation, berth nos.71 and 72 in S1 coach should be earmarked for them. Similarly, in the trains having AC Sleeper accommodation only, the last two side berths in B-I coach should be earmarked for OBHS staff.

   (ii) The list of trains in which OBHS facility has been provided will be forwarded by Mechanical Department to Commercial Department duly indicating whether this facility is being provided through contractor or through Railway staff.

   (iii) In case of non-Railway OBHS staff the contractor will be asked to deposit the fare for these berths/seats in advance. A flag will be put in the system to confirm whether payment has been received from the contractor or not.

   (iv) The contractor Will be required to give the names of the persons who may be going in the train at least 24 hours in advance. The names of these persons will be indicated in the chart with a special indication so that the public is aware of the same.

   (v) A provision for the cost of this fare will be kept in the contract at the time of calling of tender by Mechanical Department. In case of misuse of these berths/seats established, the only penalty will be cancellation of contract.

   (vi) In case of misuse of these berths/seats by departmental OBHS, strict as well as deterrent disciplinary action should be taken under D&A rules.

   3. CRLS will make necessary modifications in the software and intimate the date of effect to all Zonal Railways.

   4. After Implementation of this Scheme, a feedback may be sent after 3 months indicating the problems faced on this account.

   5. This issues with the concurrence/approval of Finance and Mechanical Directorates of Ministry of Railways.

sd/-
(S.K. Ahirwar)
Director Traffic Commercial(G)    
Railway Board                                         

Source: AIRF

PCDA Pension Orders 2013 : One Rank One Pension - Rate of Minimum Guaranteed Family Pension with effect from 24.9.2012 (Commissioned Officers)

   An Important circular has been issued by the Office of the PR.Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions)-Allahabad regarding that the Dependent Pension (Special) and Dependent Pension (Liberalised) to Defence Service Personnel and Ex-Servicemen and also issued the table of minimum guaranteed family pension effect from 24.9.2012 (Commissioned Officers). Implementation of Government decision on the recommendations of the Committee Secretaries Committee- 2012 on the issues related to Defence Service Personnel and Ex-Servicemen- Improvement in Casualty Pensionary Awards for pre- 2006 Armed Forces Officers and JCO/ ORs and equivalents.

   The main content of the order is reproduced and given for your information and also given a link to the original order...

Subject : Implementation of Government decision on the recommendations of the Committee Secretaries Committee- 2012 on the issues related to Defence Service Personnel and Ex-Servicemen- Improvement in Casualty Pensionary Awards for pre- 2006 Armed Forces Officers and JCO/ ORs and equivalents.

Reference : This Office Circular No. 503 dated 17.01.2013.

   Kindly refer to Table No. 1 appended in this office circular cited under reference. Your attention is invited wherein to various nomenclature columns (Column 6, 8, 11, 13, 17,19) the 2nd Life awards of SFP and 2nd Life awards of LFP have been shown. However, in the case of Commissioned Officers it should be Dependent Pension (Special) and Dependent Pension (Liberalised). In order to facilitate the PDAs for smooth revision and implementation, the same has been rectified and an amended Table No. 1(Revised) is enclosed for necessary revision/ action.

   It is also mentioned that the rates of Dependent Pension (Liberalised) in case both parents are alive are @ of 75% of LFP. This has been left out inadvertently which has now been reproduced in the revised table.

   2.All Pension Disbursing Authorities are authorized to revise/ update the family pension in respect of Commissioned Officers equivalent as per tables attached to this circular, if the same is beneficial. Table No. 1 appended in Circular No. 503 is replaced by Table No. 1(Revised) annexed with this circular.

   3.All other terms and conditions for revision of family pension in respect of pre-2006 Armed Forces family pensioners drawing pension under casualty pensionary awards shall remain unchanged.

sd/-
(ALOK PATNI)
ACDA(P)

No. Grants/Tech/0167-XIII (508)

Source:http://pcdapension.nic.in/6cpc/Circular-508.pdf

Budget 2013: 7 expectations of the salaried class.

   According to a survey by Assocham, a majority of salaried people want Finance Minister P. Chidambaram to raise the exemption limit on income-tax and increase deductions under various allowances so that they are left with more purchasing power.

   1. Exemption limit on income-tax: Over 89 per cent of the respondents said that the slab oftax free income has not moved up in line with real inflation. The current basic exemption limit of Rs. 2 lakh should be increased to at least Rs. 3 lakh, while the limit for women should go up to Rs. 3.5 lakh. This will increase the purchasing power of individuals and stimulate demand.

   2. Medical re-imbursement limit: With increasing healthcare costs, the existing tax free limit of Rs. 15,000 should be increased to Rs. 50,000, 89 per cent of the respondents said.

   3. Transportation allowance: Currently, this is tax-free to the extent of Rs. 800 per month. This limit was fixed more than a decade ago, and definitely needs to be revised upwards to at least Rs. 3,000 per month, given the rising commuting costs across the country, according to the survey.

   4. Interest on home loan: The deduction limit for payment of interest (on self-occupied property) has remained constant at Rs. 1.5 lakh since 2001. Since then, property prices have gone through the roof, increasing the quantum of home loan. An increase in the exemption limit to Rs. 2.5 lakh will be a welcome change, the survey found.

   5. Investments under Section 80C: This IT Act provides a deduction of Rs. 1 lakh for certain investments. The provision helps people in making forced savings that helps them in the future. A common man expects this limit to be increased to Rs. 2 lakh with a sub-limit of Rs. 50,000 exclusively for insurance and pension.

   6. Infrastructure bonds: Over 82 per cent respondents favoured the restoration of infrastructure bonds, considering that the government needs massive funds for the development of the infrastructure sector and also the lock-in period should be restricted to five years.

   7. Pension: Over 71 per cent of the respondents demanded that the national pension system (NPS) be brought under the EEE (exempt-exempt-exempt) as against EET (exempt-exempt-tax) at present. This means that investors get a tax exemption at all the three stages of investment, appreciation and withdrawal.

Source: http://profit.ndtv.com/news/cheat-sheet/article-budget-2013-7-expectations-from-the-salaried-class-318209

Employment News Weekly Updates From 23rd February 2013 - 01st March 2013.

Job Highlights  (23rd February - 01st March 2013)
 
   1. Canara Bank requires 570 Specialist Officers in Junior Management Grade Scale-I and Middle Management Grade Scale-II. Closing Date for online Registration: 06.03.2013.

   2. Staff Selection Commission notifies Junior Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Quantity Surveying and Contract) Examination, 2013. Closing Date: 15.03.2013.

   3. Prasar Bharati notifies Combined Recruitment for the post of Engineering Assistant and Technician in Prasar Bharati Examination-2013. Closing Date: 22.03.2013.

   4. Union Public Service Commission invites applications for various posts Last Date: 14.03.2013.

   5. Hindustan Copper Limited, Kolkata requires applications for various Grades. Closing Date : 10.03.2013.

Source: www.employmentnews.gov.in

HOUSE BUILDING ADVANCE SCHEME TO KERALA GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

GOVERNMENT OF KERALA
Abstract

HOUSE BUILDING ADVANCE SCHEME TO STATE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES — ADDITIONAL LOAN FROM RECOGNISED FINANCIAL INSITUTIONS — CREATION OF SECOND MORTGAGE — ENHANCEMENT OF LIMIT — SANCTIONED — ORDERS ISSUED.

FINANCE (HBA) DEPARTMENT

G.O. (P) No.87/2013/Fin.

Dated, Thiruvananthapuram, 18.02.2013.

Read:
1. G O (P) No.436/91/Fin. Dated 31.07.1991
2. G O (P) No.528/97/Fin. Dated 07.05.1997
3. G O (P) No.1610/99/Fin. Dated 22.07.1999
4. G O (P) No.76/08/Fin. Dated 11.02.2008
5. G O (P) No.505/09/Fin. Dated 12.11.2009
6. G O (P) No.85/2011/Fin. Dated 26.02.2011

ORDER

   1) As per the Government Order read 1st paper above, Government employees were permitted to avail House Building loans from recognized financial institutions by creating Second Mortgage on the property already pledged to Government.

   2) As per the Government order 2nd, 3rd and 4th cited the cost ceiling for creating 2nd mortgage has been enhanced thrice previously. Now the Government Order under 4th cited is running, accordingly cost ceiling limit stands 100 times of basic pay subject to the maximum of 10 lakh.

   3) Employees representing various departments have approached the Government with request to enhance the cost ceiling existing under the Government Order cited in view of the escalation of cost in construction had in the last 5 years. Besides pay revision makes them affordable to avail more amount as loans.

   4) Government have examined the matter in detail and are pleased to order that, the total amount of House Building Advance sanctioned by Government and the loan raised by Government servants from outside financial institutions by creating second mortgage shall not exceed the cost ceiling limit of 100 times of basic pay subject to maximum of Rs. 25 Lakhs. All other conditions existing in the Government Order read 4th paper above shall remains the same and will be followed.

(BY ORDER OF THE GOVERNOR)

T.GANGANDHARAN NAMBIAR
ADDITIONAL SECRETARY (FINANCE)

Source: www.finance.kerala.gov.in

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

Government of India
Ministry of Railways
(Railway Board)

S. No. PC-VI/314            
No. PC-VI/2010/1/7/5/2

RBE No.14/2013
New Delhi, dated . 19.02.2013

The GMs/CAOs(R),
All Indian Railways & Production Units
(As per mailing list)

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

   In accordance with the provisions contained in this Ministry’s letter No.PC-IV/2010/increment/1 dated 19.08.2010 on the subject cited above, 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 Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008 the concept of Pay Band and Grade Pay has been introduced. Since, there are no fixed rates of increments now, the manner in which advance increment(s) are to be computed has been examined afresh keeping in view the clarification given by DOP&T. Further, after issue of clarifications vide Board's letter of even number dated 11.04.2011, this Ministry has received references from some Railways/Production Unit seeking clarifications regarding grant of advance increments. Accordingly, it has been decided that the grant of advance increments to Stenographers of Subordinate Offices on qualifying the speed test in shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. after 01 .01.2006 may be regulated as under:-

   a) In terms of the instructions contained in this Ministry’s letter No.PC-IV/2010/increment/1 dated 19.08.2010, the advance increments granted to Stenographers of Subordinate office on qualifying Speed Test in Shorthand at 100/120 w.p.m. in terms of Board’s letter No.PC-III/74/INC/3 dated 07.11.1975 are to be treated as pay for all purposes and the past cases are also to be regulated accordingly. These advance increments were therefore to be taken into account for fixation in the Revised Pay for those officials who were in receipt of such increments in the pre-revised pay. In such cases, the advance increments will no longer continue as a separate element.

   b) In respect of persons who become eligible for grant of advance increments consequent upon implementation of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008, the advance increment may be calculated by granting increment @ 3% of the Basic Pay on the date of passing of the test. Two advance increments may be calculated by granting two increments @ 3% of the Basic Pay on the date of passing the test. The amount of this increment may be treated as a separate element in addition to the Basic Pay (Pay in the Pay Band + Grade Pay), till such advance increments are taken into account as per (C) of this letter.

   c) Once the advance increments are taken into account for the purpose of pay fixation on promotion or being placed in a higher scale on grant of ACP/MACP or fixation of pay due to revision of pay scale etc., the advance increments will no longer be continued as a separate element as it will be merged with the basic pay.

   3. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

sd/-
(HARI KRISHAN)
Director, Pay Commission-II
Railway Board.

Source:http://www.airfindia.com/Orders%202013/RBE_14_2013.pdf

Procedure for selection for promotion from GP Rs.1800 to GP Rs.1900 against departmental promotion quota.

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

RB/Estt. No.13/2013

No.E(NG)I-2011/CFP/10

New Delhi, dated 19.02.2013

The General Managers (P)
All Zonal Railways and
Production Units.
(As per standard list).

Sub:- Procedure for selection for promotion from GP Rs.1800 to GP Rs.1900 against departmental promotion quota.

   In terms of the extant provisions as contained in para 189 of Indian Railway Establishment Manual (IREM), Vol.I, (Revised Edition-1989), First Re-Print-2009, 33-1/3% quota of posts in the lowest grade of Commercial Clerks,Ticket Collectors, Trains Clerks, Office Clerks and other categories of Clerks like Store Clerks etc. are to be earmarked for promotion of Railway servants in the categories carrying Grade Pay of Rs.1800, for whom no regular avenue of promotion exists the Group ‘C categories being suitably linked with specified categories in Grade Pay of Rs.1800 on the basis of broad affinity of work.

   2. It has been noticed that a few Railways are adopting different eligibility criteria and are allowing Trackmen to appear in the selection being conducted against 33-1/3% departmental promotion quota which is not consistent with the extant policy as Trackman/Gateman/Trolleyman have separate avenue channel of promotion as per para 181 of IREM ibid. The issue reached upto Central Vigilance Commission(CVC) who, in turn has desired that guidelines may be issued to all Zonal Railways regarding uniform interpretation of Para 181 to 189 of IREM and related instructions thereon.

   3. In te light of the above, the matter has been considered, Ministry of Railways wish to state that the extant provisions contained in para 181 to 189 of IREM, Vol.I, (Revised Edition -1989), First Re-Print Edition-2009 and subsequent instructions issued thereon may be followed scrupulously and only eligible categories as specified may be allowed to appear in the selections being conducted for promotion from GP Rs. 1800 to GP Rs.1900 against 33-1/3% departmental promotion quota.

   Please acknowledge receipt.

sd/-
(M. K. Meena)
Deputy Diretor Estt(N)
Railway Board

Source: NFIR

Eligibility of disabled children for family pension after marriage & Eligibility of two family pensions - clarification

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

RBE No. 12/2013

No. F(E)III/2005/PN1/32

New Delhi, Dated:11.02.2013.

The GMs/FA&CAOs,
All Indian Railways/Production Units.
(As per mailing list)

Subject: (I) Eligibility of disabled children for family pension after marriage and
            (II) Eligibility of two family pensions —Clarification regarding

   A copy of Department of pension and Pensioners’ Welfare(DOP&PW)s O.M. No. 1/33/2012-P&PW(E) dated 16.01.2013 on the above subject is enclosed for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Sub-rules 6, 13-A and 13-B of Rule 54 of the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972 referred to therein correspond to sub-rules 6, 17 and 18 of Rule 75 of the Railway Services(Pension) Rules, 1993 respectively.

   2. The Explanation 1 & 3 mentioned in DOP&PW’s O.M referred above are contained in the amendment being carried out in the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 in consultation with the Ministry of Law & Justice.

   3. Please acknowledge receipt.

sd/-
(SUKHENDER KAUR)
Joint Director Finance (Estt.),
Railway Board.

To See the (DOP&PW)s O.M. No. 1/33/2012 Click here

Source: AIRF

Shortage Of Homoeopathic Doctors In CGHS.

  There are 39 posts of Homoeopathic Doctors currently lying vacant in Department of AYUSH including one post of Adviser and its break-up is as under:-

 
     CGHS-                                                                 28
{13 (Delhi/NCR) and 15(Outside Delhi)}
 
Department of AYUSH-                                               11

 
            A proposal to fill up 27 posts of Homoeopathic Doctors has been sent to the Union Public Service Commission in August, 2012 under Single Window System.  As the remaining posts are required to be revived as per the extant instruction of the Central Government, the process has been initiated to revive these posts in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure).  In respect of Adviser (Homoeopathy), the UPSC held the DPC meeting on 04.10.2012 to fill up the post by promotion which, however, did not materialize due to the retirement of the recommended candidate.

            In order to  fill up the vacant posts of Homeopathic doctors, D/o AYUSH  has initiated the action as indicated above, however, CGHS appoints the retired  Homeopathic Doctors on contract basis  in order to meet the immediate requirement of Doctors for catering the medical needs to the CGHS beneficiaries and  to ensure smooth running of the CGHS dispensaries.  Interviews have already been held on 21st December, 2012 for contractual appointment on short term basis.

            The above information was given by the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.
 
PIB

Permanent absorption of Central Government employees and employees of the Union Territories in the autonomous bodies of the Union Territories counting of service for pension.

No.28 (22)/84-P&PW
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare

New Delhi, the 4.2.1986

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Permanent absorption of Central Government employees and employees of the Union Territories in the autonomous bodies of the Union Territories counting of service for pension.

   The undersigned is directed to refer to the Department of Personnel & AR's (now Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare) O.M. No, 28/10/84-Pension Unit dated 29.8.84 down the provisions for regulating the cases of the Central Government employees going over to a Central autonomous; body or vice-versa for purpose of counting of past service for pension in the new organization, and to say that certain Union Territory Administrations have sought clarification if the autonomous bodies of the UT’s financed wholly or substantially by the UT Administrations can be treated at par with the autonomous bodies of the Central Government for the purpose of implementing the instructions contain in O.M of 29.8.84 referred to above.  In this context it has also been pointed out by the UT Administrations that there are similarities between the administrations of the UTs and the Central Government extending to the terms and conditions of employment of the staff of the UTs, their scales of pay, then governance by the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 etc. It has, therefore, been urged that the benefit available to the employees of the Central Government when absorbed in autonomous bodies wholly or substantially financed by the Central Government and vice versa for counting of past service for pension, should also be extended to the employee of the UTs when absorbed in the autonomous bodies wholly or substantially financed by the Govts. Of UTs and vice versa.

   2. The matter has been examined by this Department in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Exp.) and the following decisions have been taken:-

   (a) Central Govt. employees moving to autonomous/statutory bodies of the Union Territory will also get the benefit of O.M. dated 29.8.1984.

   (b) Employees of the Union Territory moving to the Central autonomous / statutory bodies or Autonomous / Statutory Bodies of the same Union Territory will also be entitled to the benefit of O.M. dated 29.8.1984.

   3. In so far as persons serving in the Indian Audit & Accounts Department are concerned, these order are issued with the concurrence of the C&AG.

Sd/-
(Hazara Singh)
Dy. Secretary to the Government of India

Source:http://ccis.nic.in/WriteReadData/CircularPortal/D3/D03ppw/Service_040286.pdf

Revision of Ceiling Rates and guidelines for various Coronary Stents for CGHS/CS(MA) beneficiaries.

F. No. Misc. 1002/2006/CGHS(R&H)/ CGHS(P)
Government of India
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Department of Health & Family Welfare

Maulana Azad Road, Nirman Bhawan
New Delhi 110 108 dated the 21st February, 2013.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Revision of Ceiling Rates and guidelines for various Coronary Stents for CGHS/CS(MA) beneficiaries.

   With reference to the above mentioned subject the undersigned is directed to draw attention to the Office Memorandum of even number dated 31.10.2011 and to state that ceiling rates for all DCGI approved Coronary Stents have been revised in super cession of the Office Memorandum of even No. dated 31.10.2011 of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare as per the ceiling rates mentioned below:-

S.No	Type of Coronary Stents		Ceiling Rate
1.	DRUG ELUTING  CORONARY STENTS	All DCGI and FDA approved Drug Eluting Stents All DCGI and CE approved Drug Eluting Stents All DCGI approved Drug Eluting Stents	Rs.25,000/-
2.	BARE METAL CORONARY STENTS	COBALT STENTS (including Coated and other Stents) All DCGI and FDA approved All DCGI and CE approved All DCGI approved	Rs.12000/-
3.	BARE METAL  STAINLESS STELL   STENTS	Rs.10,000/- the rates were already notified vide OM of even number dated 7th February 2013

   Reimbursement to beneficiaries /empanelled hospitals shall be allowed subject to the ceiling rates or actuals, whichever are lower.

   2. Coronary Stents shall be permitted on the advice of Govt. Specialist, of which not more than two shall be of Drug Eluting Sterits( in any of the coronary stents as per the decision of treating specialist). Permission shall be granted as per the laid down procedure. If more than two drug eluting stents are implanted in an empanelled hospital and no written informed consent was obtained from the beneficiary that he/she would bear the difference in cost between the DES and Bare Metal Stent, and the hospital has charged this amount from the beneficiary, the additional amount shall be paid to the beneficiary and shall be deducted from the pending bills of hospitals.

   3. It is essential for the empanelled hospitals to quote the Batch number when a coronary/vascular stent of any type is implanted in the case of a CGHS/CS (MA) beneficiary and also enclose a copy of the relevant invoices pertaining to the procurement of the stents by the hospitals. In addition to this, the outer pouch of the Stent packet along with the sticker on it on which details of the stent are printed shall also be enclosed with the medical bill for claiming reimbursement from the Govt. In case of treatment from a private non-empanelled hospital, where the treatment was taken in an emergency, it is the responsibility of the beneficiary to obtain the batch number , invoice and outer pouches of the stent(s) before the submission of the medical claim to CGHS/ concerned department, as the case may be.

   4. The empanelled hospital shall submit a self certified undertaking that the hospital has not charged the CGHS / CS (MA) beneficiary more than the rate at which the stent has been procured by the hospital and in case of any detection and establishment that the hospital has overcharged, the hospital shall be removed from the list of hospitals empanelled under CGHS without any further notice.

   5. UTI-ITSL, while processing the hospital bills of coronary / vascular stents shall ensure that the hospitals have enclosed copies of the relevant invoices pertaining to the procurement of the stents by the hospitals and the outer pouch of the Stent packet along with the sticker on it on which details of the stent are printed and that the prescribed rates and the guidelines have been followed, before making provisional payments to the hospitals.

   6. The revised rates and guidelines shall come into force from the date of issue and shall be in force till they are revised.

   7. This issues with the concurrence of Integrated Finance Division vide Note dated 20.12.2012 of AS&FA, Min. of H&FW.

sd/-
(RAVI KANT)
UNDER SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

Source:http://msotransparent.nic.in/writereaddata/cghsdata/mainlinkfile/File577.pdf

Withholding of 10% gratuity from the retiring Government servants -clarification regarding.

No.20/16/1998-P&PW(F)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare

3rd Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan,
Khan Market, New Delhi-110 003
Dated the 19th February 2013.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Withholding of 10% gratuity from the retiring Government servants -clarification regarding.

   The undersigned is directed to say that this Department has been receiving representations from individuals and Pensioners Associations that Government Departments have been withholding 10% of the amount of gratuity from each retirees even when they had not been provided any Government accommodation.

   2. The recovery and adjustment of Govt. dues from retirement gratuity is regulated under Rules 71 to 73 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. Rule (1) to (3) of Rule 72 ibid provide for recovery of actual amount of Govt. dues in respect of Govt. accommodation from pay & allowances before retirement and from Retirement Gratuity. Sub rule (5) of Rule 72 ibid stipulates that if, in any particular case, it is not possible for the Directorate of Estates to determine the outstanding licence fee, that Directorate shall inform the Head of Office that ten per cent of gratuity may be withheld pending receipt of further information. The withheld amount of gratuity is to be paid back to government servant immediately on production of 'No Demand Certificate' (NDC) from Dte of Estates. Thus, if no 'Govt. dues' in respect of Govt. accommodation are outstanding then the rules do not provide for Withholding of any part of the gratuity on retirement of the Govt. servant. If no Government accommodation is allotted to a Government servant, in accordance with Dte of Estate's OM NO.18011/511990-Pol-IIIdated 12.10.2010, it is for the Administrative Ministry to issue an 'NDC".

   3. As regards recovery in respect of 'Govt. dues' other than those pertaining to Govt. accommodation, the Head of Office is required to complete assessment of such dues eight months prior to the date of retirement [Rule 73(2)]. The actual amount of such dues and the dues which come to the notice subsequently and remaining outstanding are to be adjusted against the amount of retirement gratuity becoming payable to the Govt. servant on retirement. Thus, there is no provision for withholding any part of gratuity for the purpose of recovery of outstanding government dues other than those pertaining to government accommodation.

sd/-
(Tripti P. Ghosh)
Director

Source:http://ccis.nic.in/WriteReadData/CircularPortal/D3/D03ppw/Gratuity_20022013.pdf

Pension- Contributory Pension Scheme- Employees contribution and Government contribution- Enhancement of rate of interest at the rate of 8.6% - Orders - Issued.

GOVERNMENT OF TAMIL NADU
2013

FINANCE (PGC) DEPARTMENT
G.O.No.38,  Dated: 11th February, 2013

Pension- Contributory Pension Scheme- Employees contribution and Government contribution- Enhancement of rate of interest at the rate of 8.6% - Orders - Issued.

Read the following:-

   1. G.O.Ms.No.222, Finance (Pension) Department, dated.3.6.2008.

   2. G.O.Ms.No.106, Finance (Allowances) Department, dated 30.3.2012.

   3. From the Principal Accountant General, Chennai-18 letter No.GPF-14/CPS/SO/382- 119134, dated 24.8.12 and 27.12.2012.

   4. Government letter No.49690/PGC/2012, dated 2.1.2013.

ORDER:

   In the reference first cited the rate of interest for Contributory Pension Scheme has been fixed at the rate of 8% with effect from 1.4.2003.

   2.  In the reference second cited the rate of interest for General Provident Fund and other Provident Funds including Contributory  Provident Fund has been enhanced at the rate of 8.6% with effect from 1.12.2011.

   3.  Accordingly, the Government have decided to enhance the rate of interest for Contributory Pension Scheme also and ordered that the rate of interest for Contributory Pension Scheme is fixed at the rate of 8% upto 30.11.2011 and at the rate of 8.6% with effect from 1.12.2011.

   4.  The above rate of interest will remain the same until further orders issued in this regard.

(BY ORDER OF THE GOVERNOR)

S. KRISHNAN,
Secretary to Government (Expenditure)

Source:http://www.tn.gov.in/gosdb/gorders/finance/fin_e_38_2013.pdf

Government Initiatives on proposed Strike by the Central Trade Unions.

   As directed by the Prime Minister, senior Ministers in the Union Cabinet – Shri A.K. Antony, Defence Minister, Shri Sharad Pawar, Minister for Agriculture and Shri Mallikarjun Kharge, Minister for Labour & Employment held a round of discussions with the representatives of the Central Trade Unions on the evening of 18th February to convey the serious intent of the Government to resolve the various issues raised in their charter of demands. The list of participants is at.

   The representatives of the Central Trade Unions reiterated their demand for the Government to take concrete measures to contain price rise, to ensure employment generation, strict enforcement of labour laws, universal social security for unorganized and organized workers, stoppage of disinvestment in Central and State Public Sector Undertakings. Some of the issues raised by them also related to payment of minimum wages of Rs.10,000/-, abolition of contract labour, payment of equal wages and benefits to contract workers at par with regular workers, removal of all ceilings on payment and eligibility of bonus, provident fund, increasing the quantum of gratuity, assured pension for all, compulsory registration of trade unions within 45 days and immediate ratification of the ILO Convention No.87 and 98.

  The Ministers explained to the representatives of the Central Trade Unions the various measures taken by the Government to control price-rise and contain inflation in the country. Particular attention was drawn to the huge food subsidy incurred by the Government to ensure availability of food grains to the poor at very concessional rates through the Public Distribution System. The Government’s efforts to pass the Food Security Bill in the Parliament will further increase the availability of subsidized food grains to the larger segments of the population and the Government is prepared to meet the extra burden on this account. The Government’s commitment to help the poor is also evident from the large amount of subsidy for fertilizers and fuel to ensure their supply at reasonable rate to the people.

   The Government is also keen to introduce amendments to the Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act, 1970, Minimum Wages Act, 1948 and various other labour laws to improve the conditions of the workers and to give them substantial relief. A National Employment Policy is going to be announced shortly to encourage higher employment to women, to promote skill development and inclusive growth. Some of these proposals are going to be discussed in the meetings of the Union Cabinet shortly. The Government has already approved the National Manufacturing Policy in November, 2011 which envisages the creation of 100 million jobs in the country by 2022.

   The Ministers pointed out the huge loss to the economy in case the strike is resorted to by the Central Trade Unions. Apart from substantial production loss, the strike is also likely to cause inconvenience to the general public and loss of wages to the workers. In view of this, the Ministers appealed to the Central Trade Union Leaders to call off the strike.

   At the end of the meeting, the representatives of the Central Trade Unions informed that they are going to discuss the proposal of the Government in a meeting on 19th Feb., 2013 and take further decision on the proposed strike.

Source: PIB

Opening of new Kendriya Vidyalaya(KV) at Thiruvarur (Tamilnadu)

KENDRIYA VIDYALAYA SANGATHAN
18, Institutional Area, Shaheed Jeet Singh Marg
New Delhi 110 016.

F.11073 -3/2011-KVSHQ (Admn.-I)

Date: 05.02.2013

OFFICE ORDER

   Sanction of the Chairman, KVS is hereby accorded to open a new Kendriya Vidyalaya at the campus of Central University of Tamilnadu at Thanjavur Road, Thiruvarur (Tamilnadu) under Institute of Higher Learning Sector from 01.04.2013. The Vidyalaya will function from Class I to V (single section) during the academic session 2013-14 with consequential growth based on feasibility.

   The Sponsor i.e. Central University of Tamilnadu at Thiruvarur will be responsible to provide:-

   1. Permanent school building as per the specification of the KVS.

   2. 100% staff quarters to all the staff of the Kendriya Vidyalaya.

   3. All recurring and non-recurring expenditure including proportionate overhead charges and future development expenditure.

   The Sponsor shall remit the budgeted amount of recurring/non-recurring expenditure in advance installment to the Deputy Commissioner, KVS, Chennai Region i.e. first installment in the month of April and second in the month of October for each financial year.

   In case the sponsor fails to fulfill their commitment as agreed to, the Commissioner, KVS is empowered to reduce the number of classes/sections and also direct the closure of Kendriya Vidyalaya by giving due notice to the sponsor.

   The admission to the Kendriya Vidyalaya will be as per the priorities/rules prescribed by the KVS from time to time for the KVs under Institute of Higher Learning Sector.

   Orders regarding staff sanction are issued separately.

sd/-
(Dr. E.Prabhakar)
Joint Commissioner (Pers.)

Source:http://www.kvsangathan.nic.in/CircularsDocs/cir-admn-14-02-13(1).pdf

Various forms of protest action on two days Nationwide General strike on 20th and 21st February,2013.

 

MOST IMMEDIATE

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
DEPARTMENT OF PERSONNEL & TRAINING
MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES
AND PENSIONS
NORTH BLOCK, NEW DELHI-110001

D.O. No. 33012/1(s)/2013-Estt-B

  Dated the 15th  February, 2013

Dear Sir/Madam,

   The Joint Platform of Action of Government and Associate Services Employee's Organizations — All India Committee has given a notice that the affiliated organizations of JPA and the mass of employees working in Government services throughout the country will boycott work and resort to various forms of protest action on two days Nationwide General strike on 20th  & 21 st  February, 2013 in pursuance of their Charter of Demands.

   2. The instructions issued by the Department of Personnel & Training prohibit the Government servants from participating in any form of strike including mass casual leave, go-slow etc. or any action that abet any form of strike in violation of Rule 7 of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964. Besides, in accordance with the proviso to Rule 17 (1) of the Fundamental Rules, pay and allowances is not admissible to an employee for his absence from duty without any authority. As to the concomitant rights of an Association after it is formed, they cannot be different from the rights which can be claimed by the individual members of which the Association is composed. It follows that the right to form an Association does not include any guaranteed right to strike. There is no statutory provision empowering the employees to go on strike. The Supreme Court has also agreed in several judgments that going on a strike is a grave misconduct under the Conduct Rules and that misconduct by the Government employees is required to be dealt with in accordance with the law. Any employee going on strike in any form would face the consequences which, besides deduction of wages, may also include appropriate disciplinary action. In this connection, your kind attention is also drawn to this Department's OM No. 33012/1(s)/2008-Estt (B) (pt) dated 12th  September, 2008 (copy enclosed)

   3. A Joint Consultative Machinery for Central Government employees' is already functioning. This scheme has been introduced with the object of promoting harmonious relations and of securing the greatest measure of co-operation between the Government, in its capacity as employer, and the general body of its employees in matters of common concern, and with the object, further of increasing the efficiency of the public service. The JCM at the different levels have been discussing issues brought before it for consideration and either reaching amicable settlement or referring the matter to the Board of Arbitration in relation to pay and allowances, weekly hours of work and leave, whenever no amicable settlement could be reached in relation to these items.

   4. The Central Government Employees under your Ministry/Departments may, therefore, be suitably informed of the aforesaid instructions under the Conduct Rules issued by this Department and other regulations upheld by the Hon'ble Supreme Court and dissuaded from resorting to strike in any form. You may also issue instructions not to sanction Casual Leave or other kind of leave to employees if applied for, during the period of the proposed strike and ensure that the willing employees are allowed hindrance free entry into the office premises. For this purpose, Joint secretary (Admn) may be entrusted with the task of coordinating with security personnel. Suitable contingency plan may also be worked out to carry out the various functions of the Ministry/Department.

   5. In case the employees go on strike, a report indicating the number of employees who took part in the proposed strike may be conveyed to this Department on the evening of the day.

With kind regards,

Yours sincerely,

sd/-
(Manoj Joshi)

Source:http://ccis.nic.in/WriteReadData/CircularPortal/D2/D02est/Nationwide-General-15022013.pdf

Grant of Night Duty Allowance on the basis of Actual Salary - Implementation of Courts Judgement.

Office of the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Central Command) Cariappa Road, Cantt., Lucknow, Pin Code – 226002

TOP PRIORITY

Speed Post

No. PT/3088/CGDA/Corr                                                                          

Date: 04/02/2013

To,
All Sub Offices

Sub -: Grant of Night Duty Allowance on the basis of Actual Salary - Implementation of Courts Judgement.

Ref -:    HQrs Office Letter No. AT/II/2366/NDA-VIII dated 01/02/2013.

    The copy of HQrs Office Delhi Cantt. letter No. cited under reference on above subjects is forwarded herewith for your information and information required as per Para 2 of MOD/D (Civ-II) U.O Note bearing NO. 17(4)/2012/D (Civ-II) dated 04.01.2013 (Copy enclosed) may please be forwarded to this office with in 5 days i.e by 08.02.2013 by Fax as the same is required to be furnished to HQrs office on TOP PRIORITY.

sd/-
Sr. Accounts Officers (PT)

Controller General of Defence Accounts ULAN BATAR ROAD, PALAM, DELHI CANTT-10

No.AT/II/2366/NDA-VIII                                                                     

Date 01/02/2013

To
The PCDA (CC)
LUCKNOW

Subject: Grant of Night Duty Allowance on the basis of Actual Salary-Implementation of Courts Judgement.

    Copy of MoD/D (Civ-II) U.O Note bearing I.D No. 17(4)/2012/D (Civ-II) dated 04/01/2013 is forwarded herewith. The issue may be examined and information required as per para-2 of ibid U.O. may please be forwarded to this HQrs office within 10 days by Fax at 011-25675485 as the same is to be furnished to MoD on Top Priority.

Most Immediate
Court Matter

Ministry of Defence
D (Civ-II)

Subject: Grant of Night Duty Allowance on the basis of Actual Salary – Implementation of Courts Judgements.

    The issue of payment of Night Duty Allowance based on actual salary instead of notional pay of Rs.2200/- is under consideration in the Ministry consequent of Courts judgments. Hon’ble CAT jodhpur has passed the following directions in OA No 34/2008 dated 5.11.2009:

   (i)    The Night Duty Allowance shall be paid to the applicants and the similarly situated persons on the basis of the actual salary after taking out the pay structure determinants like HRA etc., which have no actual relation to the work performed and on the basis of this pay, thus arrived at, Night Duty Allowance is payable to the applicants.

   (ii)    The applicants are entitled to such arrears as is applicable to them from April 2007 on the basis of actual pay thus arrived at without any interest if the amount is calculated and arrears paid to them from six months from the date of receipt of a copy of this order and thereafter with 6% interest.

   (iii)    The O.A is allowed to the extent as aforesaid. No order as to costs.

   2.     The following information is required to be submitted to Defence (Finance) for taking a conscious decision in the matter:

   (i)    No. of employees eligible for getting NDA with the break-up of Industrial or Non-Industrial employees; and

   (ii)    The financial implication if the proposal is implemented in favour of the petitioners only and (ii) all similarly placed personnel including the petitioners.

   3.    It is requested that the above information may be furnished to the Ministry in time bound manner

sd/-
(M S Sharma)
Under Secretary

Source:http://pcdacc.gov.in/download/circularsnew/20130204_hcl0012-13-14.pdf

MODIFIED ASSURED CAREER PROGRESSION SCHEME (MACPS) FOR THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES.

OFFICE OF THE PRINCIPAL CONTROLLER OF DEFENCE ACCOUNTS (CENTRAL COMMAND) LUCKNOW CANTT

Part II O.O.No. 732                                                      

Dated 13.02.2013

Sub:- MODIFIED ASSURED CAREER PROGRESSION SCHEME (MACPS) FOR THE CENTRAL GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES.

    In the implementation of financial up gradation under the MACP Scheme as introduced by the Govt. of India vide DOPT OM No 35034/3/2008 Estt (d) dated 19.05.2009 and further clarification received from HQrs Office New Delhi under their No AN/XI/11051/MACP/2009/Vol-I dated 22.07.2009, AN/XI/11051?MACP/2009/Vol-II dated 17.11.2009 and No. AN/XI/12240/MACP/2012/Vol-I dated 24.05.2012, individuals as per Annexure-A to this Part-II O.O. have been granted financial up gradation in the next higher grade pay as per details mentioned against their names.

    The attention of the individuals may be drawn to the clarification at Sl No 7 of Annexure-I to DOPT No 35034/3/2008 Estt (D) 19.05.2009 regarding exercising of option by the individual for fixation of pay for financial up gradation. The option may be exercised within a month.

    The financial up gradation so granted is merely placing the individuals in the next higher grade pay in the hierarchy of the recommended revised pay bands and grade pay as given in Section 1, Part-A of the first schedule of the CCS (Revised Pay) Rules 2008.

    No stepping of pay in the pay band or grade pay would be admissible with regard to junior getting more pay than the senior on account of pay fixation under MACP Scheme.

Authority:- Office Note No AN/IB/1378/MACPS dated 11.02.2013

sd/-
(P.K.CHATTERJEE)
ACDA(AN)

Source:http://pcdacc.gov.in/download/circularsnew/modified.pdf

Revival of ‘Continuous Empanelment Scheme’ for private hospitals and diagnostic centres under CGHS.

No: S. 11011/23/2009-CGHS D.II/ Hospital Cell (Part IX)
Government of India
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Department of Health & Family Welfare

Maulana Azad Road, Nirman Bhawan
New Delhi 110 108 dated the 14th February 2013.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revival of ‘Continuous Empanelment Scheme’ for private hospitals and diagnostic centres under CGHS

   With a view to ensuring comprehensive health care to CGHS beneficiaries, CGHS has been, apart from the Government Hospitals, empanelling private hospitals and diagnostic centres by floating tenders periodically. The latest tender process in this context commenced in the second half of 2009. Even the already empanelled hospitals (including dental clinics and eye centres) / diagnostic centres under CGHS were required to submit the bids under this tender process. Through this process, package rates for different treatment procedures and investigations were notified in 2010. As a part of this process, certain hospitals and diagnostic centres which accepted these rates and also signed MOAs with CGHS were notified in CGHS covered cities. Subsequently, with a view to empanel more hospitals and diagnostic centers , continuous empanelment scheme was initiated in December 2010 and was in operation till July 2011 in some cities & till 26th December 2011 in some other cities.

   2. However, it has been noticed that the number of hospitals and diagnostic centres notified as empanelled under CGHS is not adequate to provide a satisfactory level of healthcare to CGHS beneficiaries in all areas of CGHS covered cities.

Default ASP and Annuity Scheme for subscribers exiting from NPS and Seeking withdrawal of Accumulated Pension Wealth.

Pension Fund Regulatory and
      Development Authority
        
CIRCULAR

PFRDA/2013/5/PDEX/4

                                 14th February 2013

To,
All POP’s/Aggregators/CRA/ dealing offices of Central & State Governments,

Subject: Default ASP and Annuity Scheme for subscribers exiting  from NPS and Seeking withdrawal of Accumulated Pension Wealth

   PFRDA has empanelled seven Annuity Service Providers (ASP’s) for providing annuity services to NPS subscribers. As per current National Pension System (NPS) exit norms,the subscriber is mandatorily required to select one of the empanelled ASP’s along with an Annuity scheme from those offered by the chosen ASP at the time of exiting from NPS and seeking withdrawal of accumulated pension wealth (for reasons other than death of the subscriber).

   Based on the feedback received from stakeholders seeking provision of a default option to be exercised by the subscriber at the time of selection of the ASP and choosing of an annuity scheme, PFRDA has examined the matter and decided to assist the subscriber by providing a default option.

     After examining the various options provided by the different ASPs, it has been decided to provide for a default ASP and annuity scheme as below:

   1. Default Annuity Service Provider – Life Insurance Corporation of India

   2. Default Annuity Scheme - Annuity for life with a provision of 100% of the annuity payable to spouse during his/her life on death of annuitant’ and Under this option, payment of monthly annuity would cease once the annuitant and the spouse die or after death of the annuitant if the spouse pre-deceases the annuitant, without any return of purchase price.  

   3. However, where the corpus is not adequate to buy the default annuity variant and from  the  default ASP, the subscriber has to compulsorily choose an ASP who offers an annuity at the available corpus in the account of the subscriber.

   Also, it may be noted that this default option is being purely provided in the subscribers’ interest and to avoid any delay in claim processing and is not with a view to endorse/promote any particular ASP or annuity variant being offered by the ASP. 

   The default ASP and the default annuity scheme as above would be applicable for all variants of NPS i.e. Government Sector, Swavalamban and those accounts under NPSlite platform not able to meet the compulsory contribution under Swavalamban scheme, Corporate and All Citizen model.

   This is for the information of all concerned.   The circular has also been placed on PFRDA website at  http://www.pfrda.org.in and CRA website at http://www.npscra.nsdl.co.in.

Yours Faithfully,

Sd/-
  Venkateswarlu Peri
General Manager

Source:http://pfrda.org.in/writereaddata/linkimages/Default%20ASP%20and%20Annuity%20Variant487123241.pdf

Raise I-T exemption limit to Rs 4 lakh: Congress.

   In a pre-budget meeting with Finance Minister P Chidambaram here on Thursday, Congress leaders have asked the UPA government to increase the taxable income exemption limit to Rs 4 lakh from the current Rs 2 lakh, while suggesting a pro-people budget with sops for the middle class and farmers keeping  the upcoming elections in mind.

   The meeting was held at the Congress party headquarters. With the rise in fuel prices impacting the ‘aam aadmi’, the meeting saw suggestions for varied pricing of petrol, diesel and cooking gas for people living below poverty line and low income group.

   Senior party leader Oscar Fernandes suggested there was a need to bring down the dependence on petroleum import and more focus on having alternative sources of energy like ethanol, sources said. Fernandes also wanted the government to reduce tax on bidis, noting that employment levels were coming down in the labour-intensive sector due to current tax slab.

   Congress leader Jagdish Tytler suggested that the budget should be formulated in a way that helps the party to connect with people as elections were ahead, sources said.  AICC Secretary P Sudhakar Reddy mooted raising the tax exemption limit of Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, which was endorsed by many other office bearers.

    He also advised linking Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme with agriculture to help meet the shortage of farm labour in the sector, besides offering three-year interest-free loans to small farmers for their children’s education.

   Suggestions were also made by party leaders for gender budgeting. Reddy advised the Finance Minister that female assessees could be given higher tax exemption limit.

   There were also demands by many leaders for bringing more clarity on the service tax as it was being interpreted differently in various states.

   Minority Department Chairman Imran Kidwai demanded increase in outlay of the Minority Affairs Ministry and allocation of more funds to minority institutions. He also advised formulation of special scheme for Most Backward Classes for their financial inclusion.
 
   Senior party leader Ajit Jogi complained that central funds were being diverted in many non-congress ruled states by the respective governments, suggesting some mechanism should be developed to check this, “The finance minister told us what are the difficulties and how the Indian economy was kept at a balance despite the tough global economic scenario. Thirty-two of the 46 office bearers present spoke on various issues related to farmers, weavers, education, health and income tax," party general secretary Janardan Dwivedi told reporters after the meeting.

Source: www.deccanherald.com

Removal/Suspension of Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre, Max Super Specialty Hospital and Max Devki Heart & Vascular Institute, New Delhi — regarding.

No: S. 11031/CGHS(HEC)/2012- 13-CGHS(P)
Government of India
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
Department of Health & Family Welfare

Maulana Azad Road, Nirman Bhawan
New Delhi 110 108 dated the 13th February 2013

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Removal/Suspension of Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre, Max Super Specialty Hospital and Max Devki Heart & Vascular Institute, New Delhi — regarding.

   With reference to the above mentioned matter, the undersigned is directed to draw attention to the Office Memorandum No S 11011/23/2009/CGHS DII / Hospital Cell (part I) dated 7.10.2010 vide which Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre, Max Super Specialty Hospital and Max Devki Heart & Vascular Institute, New Delhi were empanelled under CGHS, Delhi and to state that Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre and Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi have conveyed their unwillingness to continue their empanelment under CGHS. It is also stated that Max Devki Heart & Vascular Institute, New Delhi informed that the hospital shall not provide credit facility to CGHS beneficiaries. The matter has been examined by this Ministry and it has been decided that Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre, Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi shall stand removed from the list of empanelled hospitals under CGHS, Delhi with immediate effect.

   2. It is further stated that the empanelment of Max Devki Heart & Vascular Institute, New Delhi is suspended from the list of empanelled hospitals under CGHS with immediate effect till further orders.

sd/-
[V.P.Singh]
Deputy Secretary to Government of India

Source:http://msotransparent.nic.in/writereaddata/cghsdata/mainlinkfile/File572.pdf

All India Railwaymen's Federation Support to “General Strike” proposed by the Central Trade Unions.

All India Railwaymen's Federation

4, State Entry Road,
New Delhi-110055
INDIA

No.AIRF/376

Dated: February 13th 2013.

The General Secretaries,
All Affiliated Unions,

Dear Corms.,

Sub: Support to “General Strike” proposed by the Central Trade Unions.

   As you are aware that the 88th Annual Conference of All India Railwaymen’s Federation, met at Vishakhapatnam from 18th to 20th December, 2012, had decided to reiterate its all out support to the programme drawn in the National Convention of all the Central Trade Unions, held on 4th September, 2012 at Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi(Resolution No.5). It has, therefore, been decided by the All India Railwaymen’s Federation to extend its fullest support to the countrywide two days “General Strike” proposed by the Central Trade Unions on 20th and 21st February, 2013 on the following demands:-

   1. No contractorisation of works of permanent/perennial nature of wages and benefits to the contract workers at the same rate as available to the regular workers of the industry/establishment.

   2. Amendment of Minimum Wages Act to ensure universal coverage irrespective of the schedules and fixation of statutory minimum wage at not less than Rs.10,000 linked with Cost Price Index.

   3. Remove all ceilings on payment and eligibility of Bonus, Provident Fund; Increase the quantum of gratuity.

   4. Assured pension for all.

   5. Compulsory registration of the Trade Unions within a period of 45 days and immediate ratification of the ILO Conventions Nos.87 and 98.

   You are, therefore, advised to conduct gate meetings, demonstrations, dharnas, protest rallies etc. at all the important places to ensure our solidarity to CTUs’ call of two days’ “General Strike”.

   In this connection, we are also enclosing herewith a copy of the appeal made by all the Central Trade Unions.

Comradely yours,

sd/-
(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
General Secretary
AIRF.

Source:http://www.airfindia.com/AIRF%202013/Support%20to%20General%20Strike_14.02.2012.pdf

Latest Railway Board Order: Revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners-reg.

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

RBE No. 11/2013

No. F(E)III/2008/PN1/12

New Delhi, Dated: 11.02.2013.

The GMS/FA&CAOS,
All Indian Railways/production Units.
(As per mailing list)

Subject: Revision of pension of pre-2006 pensioners-reg.

   A copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare(DOP&PW)’s O.M. No. 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 28.01.2013 on the above subject is enclosed for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Rules 49 and 54(3)(a) of the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972 referred to therein correspond to Rules 69 and 75(4)(i) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 respectively. The Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure’s O. M. No.1/1/2008-IC dated 30.08.2008 mentioned in DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 28.01.2013 has been adopted on Railways vide Railway Board’s letter No.PC-VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.09.2008.

   2. A concordance of DOP&PW’s instructions referred to in the enclosed O.M. and Railway Board’s corresponding instructions is given below :-

Sl.No.	DOP&PW's instructions	Corresponding instructions of Railway Board
1	38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 01.09.2008	F(E)III/2008/PN1/12 dated 08.09.2008.
2	1/3/2011-P&P W(E) dated 25.05.2012	F(E)III/2008/PNl/12 dated 29.06.2012.

   3. Please acknowledge receipt.

sd/-
(SUKHENDER KAUR)
Joint Director Finance (Estt.),
Railway Board.

Source:AIRF

Revision of Pension of Pre-2006 Pensioners - reg.

F.No.38/37/08-P&PW(A)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions
Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare

3rd Floor Lok Nayak Bhawan,
Khan Market, New Delhi-ll0 003.
Dated the 13th February, 2013.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Revision of Pension of Pre-2006 Pensioners - reg.

   The undersigned is directed to say that in pursuance of Government' s decision on the recommendations of Sixth Central Pay Commission, orders were issued for revision of pension/family pension vide this Department's OM No.38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 1.9.2008, as amended from time to time.

   2. The pension/family pension of pre-2006 pensioners was stepped up to 50% of the sum of minimum of pay in the pay band and the grade pay corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale from which the pensioner had retired as arrived at with reference to the fitment tables annexed to the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure OM No.l/l/2008-IC dated 30th August, 2008 with effect from 24.9.12 vide this Department OM of even number dated 28th January, 2013.

   3. In regard to disbursement of revised pension/family pension, while Head of Departments are responsible for sanctioning of pension/family pension, in cases where revision has already been done by PAOs consequent to 6th CPC, the revision may be effected at the level of PAOs. A copy of the revised authority may be sent to HOD/DDO for record. In cases where no revision has been effected, Head of Offices may follow normal procedure for revision of pension/family pension. Even in cases where there is no change in pension/family pension as a result of the issue of this OM, a revised authority for no change may be issued by the PAOs. The finalized authority will be sent to CPAO for further necessary action.

   4. A suitable entry regarding the revised pension/family pension shall be recorded by the pension Disbursing Authority in both halves of the Pension Payment Order.

   5. In case the pension/family pension in respect of pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners has not already been revised w.e.f. 1.1.2006, the same may also be revised for the period upto 23.9.2012 in terms of order dated 1.9.2008 and subsequent orders thereto and for the period from 24.9.12 in terms of order of even number dated 28.1.2013.

   6. CGA/CPAO/Ministry of Defence/Ministry of Railways/Department of Posts/Department of Telecom will devise their own monitoring mechanism to ensure that enhanced pension and arrears are disbursed to all civil pensioners/family pensioners expeditiously.

sd/-
(Tripti P Ghosh)
Director

Source:http://ccis.nic.in/WriteReadData/CircularPortal/D3/D03ppw/RevisionPension_13022013.pdf