Update on Joint Meeting of AIGETOA, SNEA, SEWA & AIBSNLEA with CMD BSNL on Promotions, SET Recruitment and HR Issues :

Update on Joint Meeting of AIGETOA, SNEA, SEWA & AIBSNLEA with CMD BSNL on Promotions, SET Recruitment and HR Issues :

Dear Friends,

A delegation comprising the General Secretaries of SNEA, AIGETOA, SEWA, and the President of AIBSNLEA, along with other leaders, met the CMDBSNL on 26.02.2026. The meeting was held in the Board room wherein Director (HR) and PGM (Pers) were also present.

The leaders demanded in voice to withdraw an unofficial ban on all HR activities and stop shifting every HR issue to April 2026.

We conveyed mass unrest among the executives due to not considering any of the HR issues including Request transfers from Tenure Completed executives and non issuing Promotions even after clearance of court cases.

CMD BSNL informed that there is no ban and the issues are being sorted out but will be decided in April by keeping in mind the targets of the year.

We narrated that not clearing any of the HR issues has already caused negative impact and demotivation among the executives and it is adversely affecting the targets.

CMD categorically informed that the issues are being looked into and nothing is stopped and added that issue like PRC needs some more time.

The Point wise discussions are as follows.

1] Undue delay in AO to CAO Promotions:

Leaders raised serious concern over undue delay on issuing CAO promotions even after clearance from the High Court and Directions from Supreme Court and this is reason for mass unrest.

The CMD informed that management intends to take a legally vetted step, as there have been many representations and notices. He pointed out that such a step would make the order foolproof against any legal challenges. His aim is to see that once promotion order is issued the same cannot be challenged in any court. Accordingly, BSNL has sought an opinion from the ASG, which is expected by next week. He also stated that he, along with PGM (Legal), is personally following up to expedite the matter. Once the opinion is received, BSNL will issue orders for the much-awaited promotions. Associations insisted for timeline and it was informed that the issue will be reviewed on receipt of legal opinion and on positive recommendations for going ahead with promotions, the orders will be issued immediately.

2] Deferment of SET Recruitment:

The association side expressed its unhappiness over the continuation of the registration process despite the categorical assurance by management to defer it. The management informed that necessary action is being taken to further extend the date of the examination. However, it was also stated that there is huge pressure from the DoT/GoI to recruit fresh candidates in BSNL, and hence immediate deferment may not be possible from BSNL side. Instead, they proposed postponing it to seek time to convince DoT regarding the apprehensions raised by the associations.

CMD BSNL shared that SET Recruitment is no way affecting to the serving executives and then we have categorically explained how it is affecting career progression of existing executives and how it is wrongly projected as succession plan for ITS on deputation. We said that any lateral entry of any fresher at higher level than JTO/JAO in unacceptable and we cant allow that.

CMD BSNL directed PGM Pers to look into the concern expressed by the associations and directed PGM Pers to update him accordingly.

CMD BSNL informed that let the registration process go ahead and issues can be discussed and decided and after review it may continue or may be scrapped also.

We categorically stated that this is in complete contravention of the assurance made by management in the first week, and if the process continues, the associations will be compelled to launch organizational action programs to stop it. It was also highlighted that all associations are united on this issue and a joint program will be launched.

3] Promotions in All Cadres for Eligible Executives:

Management informed that promotions are being delayed due to conflicting approaches among stakeholders.

We stated that all associations have jointly submitted a proposal for promotions wherein all eligible executives can be promoted. The proposal was found to be legally feasible, and an administrative decision is required. The CMD replied that he is agreeable to any proposal that does not result in an increase in posts, though he expressed some apprehension. When it was clarified that there would be no change in the sanctioned strength, he agreed to discuss it further subject to no change in number of posts and directed Director (HR) and PGM (Pers) to deliberate and submit a summary.

4] JTO to SDE Promotions for Civil wing:

We narrated that the reluctance of Management on Promotions is clearly visible as the Proposal for JTO to SDE Civil promotions has been awaiting final call in Pers section for last one month and even after repeated assurances given to us, no promotion order is issued.

CMD expressed displeasure and unawareness about it and asked PGM Pers to check issues if any and see that promotion orders are issued. PGM Pers assured for the same.

Thereafter CMD BSNL narrated proposal to review present deputation policy so that good number of BSNL Executives get opportunity for deputation for period of three years in different organizations. he added that he will be pleased to see that BSNL Executives are deputed to selected organizations with higher pay/ perks and at one step above their present grade in BSNL and stressed for a transparent Deputation policy giving equal opportunity to all.

CMD BSNL expressed displeasure on practice adopted by some of Executives in managing deputation and then creating pressure on management to accept it despite not being eligible. He further said that in one of the cases, a written explanation was given from BSNL.

The issue of BSNL in social media and its positive and negative impacts were discussed in depth and in conclusion CMD BSNL appealed leaders to make efforts for uplifted brand image of BSNL in social media.

Subsequent to the meeting, leaders of all associations discussed together on the outcome of today’s meeting and adherence to assurance by CMD BSNL and the way forward for resolution of HR issues and keeping assurances by the Management.

It was decided to wait until next week and If management does not come forward with fulfillment of the assurances made, a joint action program will be launched by all the participating associations

BMS adopts BSNL-Specific Demands in its Memorandum to Ministry of Labour :

Dear Friends,

We extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to all of you for coming forward and supporting the call of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS). Your participation has strengthened the collective voice of BSNL employees at a very crucial stage.

We express our heartfelt thanks to the central leadership of BMS for adopting the resolution to pursue the 9-point charter of demands submitted by Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch (BDM). Importantly, the core demands of BSNL employees, namely implementation of 3rd PRC, Standard Pay Scales and Superannuation Benefits for BSNL Recruits have been prominently included in the Memorandum submitted to the Ministry of Labour at Shram Shakti Bhavan, New Delhi today.

The BSNL-specific demands reflected in the main Memorandum are:

1] Implement 3rd PRC recommendations and standard pay scales for BSNL/MTNL employees.​​

2] Extend full pensionary benefits as per Rule 37-A to BSNL/MTNL recruits.

For the first time in history, a major national trade union has adopted BSNL-specific demands with such clarity and emphasis. This significant development has brought the issues of 3rd PRC, standard pay scales, and 30% superannuation benefits for BSNL recruits to the highest level through the world’s largest trade union platform.

We firmly believe that sustained persuasion at the topmost level is the only effective way to achieve resolution of the long-pending issues of 3rd PRC implementation and fulfilment of the residual issues of 2nd PRC related to pay scales and superannuation.

We once again thank each one of you for your solidarity and support to the call given by the central leadership of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh.

Click here to view the Memorandum submitted by BMS to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Hon’ble Minister for Labour and Employment

Click here to view the resolutions submitted by Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch adopted by BMS during its Triennial Conference at Puri

Observing Nationwide “Protest Day” – 25th Feb 2026 :

Dear colleagues,

Its indeed a matter of happiness and pride that the largest trade union in the world has adopted the long pending HR issues of BSNL employees and has especially included two crucial issues which is most crucial for BSNL employees in General and BSNL Recruits in Particular in their forthcoming agitation program at Pan India Level. The memorandum shall be submitted to Hon’ble PM and Hon’ble Minister of Labour and employment by the BMs central Leadership.

1] Implement 3rd PRC Recommendations and Standard Pay Scales for BSNL/MTNL Employees

2] Extend Full Pensionary Benefits as per Rule 37-A to BSNL/MTNL Recruits.

Never before in history, any major trade union has adopted the BSNL specific Demands with so much clarity. This has taken the issue of 3rd PRC and Standard Pay Scales for BSNL and 30 percent Superannuation Benefit for BSNL Recruits to the highest level through the biggest trade union umbrella of the world.

I make an humble appeal before one and all to kindly support this initiative.

Ravi Shil Verma

Chairman, Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch

GS AIGETOA

R C Pandey

Convener, Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch

GS BTEU BSNL

Conduct of Benevolent Fund Meeting on 23.02.2026 – AIGETOA Registers Strong Objection and Seeks CMD’s Intervention

AIGETOA has taken strong objection to the manner in which the Benevolent Fund meeting was conducted on 23 February 2026 without informing the recognised association, despite a prior request for minor rescheduling of time.

Click here for the letter to CMD BSNL

It is worth mentioning that..

1] The meeting on Benevolent Fund with AIGETOA, SNEA and committee members was held without any confirmation or intimation to AIGETOA after a request to shift the timing from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM due to prior engagements.

2] In the past, Benevolent Fund meetings have been postponed multiple times keeping in view the availability of officers and other association representatives, but this time even a simple communication that the meeting would not be rescheduled was denied.

This creates a clear impression that the Admin Section tried to avoid AIGETOA’s presence, particularly because AIGETOA consistently raises issues in the interest of employees and BSNL.

We place our firm objection on record and request that strict action be taken against the concerned DGM and PGM, if this action is in any way related to AIGETOA’s recent communications regarding pending issues or the manner of interaction of certain officers in the HR group.

If AIGETOA’s presence was deliberately avoided in order to push through a “half-cooked policy” with the concurrence of the majority association, we also place our strong objection to any such proposal that places the entire burden on employees without any corresponding responsibility on the employer.

AIGETOA has also flagged the earlier discussions with LIC during GTI deliberations, where LIC was asked to quote for GTI cover of ₹10/20 lakh with at least 50 percent premium to be borne by BSNL, and has pointed out that no further progress has been communicated so far. The association has stated that the way forward on this crucial protection for employees should have figured as a key agenda item in the Benevolent Fund meeting.

Seeking CMD’s personal intervention, AIGETOA has further called for strict adherence to CVC guidelines on posting in sensitive positions. The DGM and PGM have overstayed in their present HR posts beyond the stipulated tenure, while executives of AGM and below level are being subjected to frequent transfers, even in cases involving medical and PWD immunity. AIGETOA has requested immediate corrective action and has expressed that such matters should not be allowed to escalate to quasi‑judicial forums like CVC if they can be resolved through proper administrative decisions.

Observing Nationwide “Protest Day” – 25th Feb 2026:

🙏 Dear Friends🙏

As per the decision taken in the 21st All India Conference organized at Puri, Odisha by our umbrella organization, the world’s largest trade union, Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), a call has been given to observe 25th February 2026 as “Protest Day.” More than 20 unions from across India and abroad actively participated in this important 21st All India Triennial Conference at Puri.

Under this “Protest Day,” demonstrations and movements are being organized across the country at the state and district levels on 25th February.

The major demands related to employees of BSNL / MTNL included in the charter of demands for the Protest Day are as follows:

🔹 Implement 3rd PRC Recommendations and Standard Pay Scales for BSNL/MTNL Employees

🔹 Extend Full Pensionary Benefits as per Rule 37-A to BSNL/MTNL Recruits.

Both these demands are directly linked to employees’ financial security, standard pay structure and future stability. These long-pending issues require immediate resolution.

We appeal to all colleagues to participate in large numbers in this “Protest Day” and demonstrate unity so that our genuine demands can be effectively raised and resolved.

A memorandum on the letter head of Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch may also be signed by all the colleagues and sent by post to PMO by each District and Circle. The draft memorandum is attached herewith.

Click here for the Memorandum to be submitted (English Version)

Click here for the Memorandum to be submitted (Hindi Version)

Yours sincerely,

AIGETOA, BTEU, BDPS BSNL

BSNL Issues Directions to All Circles on Mobile Network Optimization – AIGETOA’s Continuous Efforts Yield Results:

After sustained and consistent follow-up by AIGETOA regarding the deteriorating mobile network performance during the technology migration phase, BSNL Corporate Office has now issued clear directions to all Circles for immediate corrective action. Vide letter No. BSNLCO-CMQS/16(11)/2/2020/NWO CM II-Part(3) dated 23.02.2026, Corporate Office has acknowledged the concerns raised by AIGETOA on issues related to 3G shutdown, Phase IX.2 network stabilization, and the challenges being faced by field units.

Click here for Letter Issued by BSNL in Reference to AIGETOA Letter

Click here for AIGETOA Letter on 4G Network & 3G BTS Shutdown

Key Directions Issued by Corporate Office:

1] Priority to Network Optimization & Stabilization

Circles have been instructed to ensure that the newly deployed Phase IX.2 network meets prescribed benchmarks and quality standards, with focused efforts on optimization before proceeding with further 3G shutdown.

2] Detailed Site-Level Assessment Before 3G Shutdown

Revenue impact, coverage, data utilization, and service quality parameters must be thoroughly analysed before switching off 3G sites.

3] Immediate Escalation of RRH Radiation Power Issues

Reduced radiation power output in RRHs must be escalated to vendors for time-bound replacement.

4] Strict Vendor Accountability

Vendor non-responsiveness in fault restoration and optimization is to be taken up at the highest level. All supplied equipment must strictly comply with tender specifications.

5] Focus Areas for Stabilization

Priority corrective actions to be ensured for:

• IMS stabilization

• Interzone VoLTE roaming

• LBS/CBC/NB-IoT related issues

Action Taken Report

Circles have been asked to take necessary action and submit reports to Corporate Office at the earliest.

AIGETOA had repeatedly written to the CMD, BSNL highlighting Network instability due to 3G shutdown, Inadequate optimization before migration, Customer dissatisfaction and churn risk, Stress on field officers working without adequate resources and Need for vendor accountability and structured stabilization plan. The present direction from Corporate Office clearly reflects the impact of our persistent efforts and structured representation on mobile network issues.

While issuance of directions is a positive step, strict monitoring of implementation at Circle and BA level is equally important. We urge all Circle and District teams to Closely monitor compliance, Document ground-level challenges and Share feedback with CHQ for further escalation wherever required.

AIGETOA remains committed to protecting the professional dignity of field executives and ensuring that BSNL’s network quality improves in a structured and accountable manner.

Together, we will continue to pursue systemic correction and long-term stabilization of BSNL’s mobile network.

Further, It has come to our notice that instead of focusing on strengthening the collective effort for network improvement, one Association has been repeatedly reaching to management with objections on why AIGETOA’s concerns are being acknowledged and acted upon by the Management.

We believe that the real objective of any association should be resolution of issues, not comparison of recognition on who does it. When genuine concerns are raised with clarity, supporting facts, and sustained follow-up, Management naturally takes cognizance. The recent directions issued by Corporate Office regarding mobile network optimization reflect the seriousness of the matter and the need for corrective action across Circles.

AIGETOA has always maintained that strengthening BSNL’s network, protecting its revenue, and supporting field executives must be a collective responsibility. This is not a matter of credit or visibility. It is about ensuring that the organization responds in time to operational challenges.

We remain focused on constructive engagement, professional advocacy, and tangible outcomes. Our priority will continue to be policy correction, accountability, and improvement in service quality for the larger interest of BSNL and its executives.

Let us all work towards solutions rather than narratives.

AIGETOA Writes to CMD BSNL for Streamlining Deputation Process and Timely Relieving Mechanism :

AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL regarding the problems faced by executives while applying for deputation. The issues include delay in forwarding applications, delay in relieving after selection, and long pendency in finalizing terms with borrowing organizations.

It has been brought to the notice of this Association that many applications are rejected due to ambiguity regarding the mapping of IDA and CDA scales. Further, due to delays in time-bound upgradations than their substantive posts. AIGETOA requests that clear guidelines be issued to ensure that all deputation applications are forwarded promptly to the borrowing organizations, provided the executives meet the basic eligibility criteria, without unnecessary administrative bottlenecks.

Click here for letter

Facilitation of sports activities and participation of BSNL employees in State/National tournaments & Leagues – AIGETOA Writes to CMD BSNL :

AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL for urgent intervention for facilitating sports activities and ensuring participation of BSNL employees in recognized State and National level tournaments and leagues.

The denial of participation, non-approval of Special Casual Leave/On Duty facility, and refusal to provide administrative support such as affiliation fees, despite clear provisions in the BSNL Sports Compendium has been highlighted. Also even after Circles forward recommendations in the prescribed format, sportspersons are not being permitted to participate as Coach/Technical Delegate, leading to demotivation and dissatisfaction.

Click here for the Letter

Update on Approval Sabbatical leave policy:

It is understood that Management Commitee of BSNL has approved the Sabbatical Leave Policy for BSNL executives. The proposal shall be placed before BSNL Board for final approval and issuance thereof.

This was a long pending demand of AIGETOA and was pending to be processed by Estt cell since long. Finally the proposal was placed yesterday for approval before Management Committee.

We extend thanks to Management for taking this issue one step forward.

AIGETOA Demands Implementation of “One Company – One Policy” and Removal of Pay Disparity in BSNL – Writes to CMD BSNL :

GS AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL highlighting the continuing disparity in pay, perks and service conditions between officers on deputation and regular BSNL executives. The immediate intervention to ensure fairness, organisational balance and long-term industrial harmony in BSNL.

Despite BSNL functioning as a single corporate entity, two parallel standards of compensation continue to exist. Officers on deputation draw CDA pay and allowances at par with Central Government employees, while regular BSNL executives remain on IDA scales without timely pay revision and adequate allowances. Both categories discharge responsibilities for the same organisation and from the same corporate resources, yet the service conditions remain unequal.

Click here for Letter Submitted

Issues:

1] Non-Implementation of 3rd PRC

The 3rd PRC period (2017–2026) is nearing completion, but BSNL employees are still drawing pay under 2nd PRC scales notified in 2007, while deputationists continue to receive 7th CPC benefits and are now poised for 8th CPC benefits .

2] Pending Residual Issues of 2nd PRC

Long-pending residual issues since 01.01.2007 remain unresolved, causing financial loss to BSNL-recruited employees .

3] Outdated Allowances and Welfare Measures

  • Transport Allowance still at 1996 levels
  • TA/DA rates outdated, especially for AGM equivalent and below levels
  • No All India LTC facility
  • Limited medical and social security provisions compared to other Central PSUs.

4] Stagnation in Promotions

Even after 25 years of BSNL’s formation, no structured internal management hierarchy has been effectively implemented. Regular executives continue to face stagnation, while officers on deputation receive regular promotions against BSNL posts.

Demands :

AIGETOA has urged the BSNL Management for:

1] Strict implementation of the principle of One Company – One Policy in pay, perks and service conditions.

2] Elimination of disparity between office on deputation and regular BSNL executives in compensation and career progression.

3] Immediate settlement of residual issues of 2nd PRC and firm action for approval of 3rd PRC at par with other Central PSUs.

4] Revision of outdated allowances and restoration of welfare measures like All India LTC and improved medical facilities.

5] Time-bound promotions of eligible executives to ensure a proper succession plan in BSNL.

The affordability cannot be selectively applied when two sets of employees within the same organisation are treated differently. More than 52,000 employees and their families are looking towards the management for a fair and transparent policy framework.