One very good development at DoT with respect to resolution of standard pay scales E2 and E3 for JTO/JAO Equivalent and SDE/AO/Equivalent.

After the tripartite meeting at DOT with BSNL, DoT and BMS affiliated associations and unions, AIGETOA was asked to submit a detailed representation stating how the issue can be resolved without cascading effect and keeping the 5 Time Bound Upgradations in EPP Intact. AIGETOA submitted its detailed representation to Member Services which was under examination at DoT. Informal discussions between BSNL and DoT officials also took place on the issue. Team AIGETOA CHQ consisting of GS Ravi Shil Verma, AIP Shri Veerabhadra Rao, Chief Patron Shri A A Khan, AGSs Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, Shri Sunil Gautam and Shri Yogendra Kumar, Organising Secretary Shri Harjinder Singh were also constantly pursuing the issue and had almost 4-5 rounds of discussions at DoT. After our last round of discussions and submissions with the senior officers at DoT who are dealing with the issue wherein we were able to explain our point of view and the same was responded with positivity from DoT Side. After our meeting, discussions took place within the higher ups at DoT and it was observed that the submissions of AIGETOA have merit. Accordingly, it was decided to call for a formal meeting with higher officers of BSNL to discuss upon the submissions of General Secretary AIGETOA. The meeting between DoT and BSNL officers will take place on 9th May 2024 and shall be chaired by Hon’ble Joint Secretary (Admin). After taking inputs from BSNL, further actions shall be taken by DoT.

Friends, though apparently small, but It’s indeed a big achievement that DoT has finally decided to move forward on the standard pay scales issue else earlier their categorical stand was always that issue is closed in line with their letter written to CLC during reconciliation proceedings with one association. This achievement is a testimony to the consistent efforts of Team AIGETOA to clear the issues under the able guidance of our umbrella organisation BMS. Slowly and steadily, road blocks are getting cleared and we are very sure that one by one, all issues shall be resolved including the issue of 3rd PRC

It may also be noted that while pursuing the pending important matters of 2nd PRC implementation (SAB dues & E2-E3 pay scale) through the official corridors of DoT/ BSNL with the active support of our strong umbrella BMS, the legal entangles are also being pursued by team AIGETOA side by side. The appeal at Hon HC is being filed and wrt E2-E3 the reply being submitted to DoT/DPE where the next listing date is 21/5/2024 at Hon’ble CAT Ernakulam.

Further, our efforts for the road blocks created by one group on the LICE of SDE to AGM is also on and we assure one and all that AIGETOA will defeat their designs to stop the promotions. Our team is working and pursuing on the issue and suitable action is being taken. We have also prevailed upon management to not to go loose on any milestones because of the court stay and all activities for issuance of LICE Results should be on track as per the schedule finalized earlier. Further our endeavours for promotions for all eligible is also on. Team AIGETOA has made a conclusive progress on PWD promotions as per the guidelines of Hon’ble Supreme Court- ( Final outcome will be visible soon) and we are also actively pursuing for implementation of Hon’ble Lucknow CAT Bench orders with respect to SDE 2007 Reversal issue and have covered a lot of distance in this regard. We are also pursuing for issuance of promotions through DPC mode across various grades.

We are sure that the unwavering support to AIGETOA by all concerned will definitely yield the positive results for the genuine cause of executives and the resolution towards PPP issues. Progress is slow but steady and we thank our umbrella organisation BMS for their support and keeping the issues on track with their active monitoring on developments.

We also extend our thanks and gratitude to our Honourable Minister of communication for his intervention on the issues after our submissions to his good self in the series of meetings with AIGETOA.

We once again request all executives to support AIGETOA in its efforts going beyond association lines.

Team AIGETOA consisting of GS AIGETOA, AIP AIGETOA, Dy GS AIGETOA, AGSs AIGETOA and OS AIGETOA had a series of meeting at DoT and BSNL with regard to pursuance of Standard Pay Scales and Promotion issues on dated 24.04.2024. The Team met OSD to MoSC, DDG (Estt) and Director PSU for pursuance of issues discussed and commitments during the tri-party meeting at DoT. After meeting at DoT, as a follow up Team Met Director (HR) and PGM (Recruitment) at BSNL. Various issues discussed and details of the discussion are as stated below:

The meeting points discussed by AIGETOA leaders with DoT officers on 24th April 2024 at DoT office :

1] Standard Pay Scales of E2 and E3 as replacement scales of pre-revised E1A and E2A:

We enquired about the progress on the issue of standard pay scales and emphasized that it needs to be expeditiously concluded. It was heartening to note that DoT is working diligently on the issue and one meeting between BSNL Management Team and officers dealing the issue has already taken place few days back. Discussion was centered on the need for replacement of initial two pay scales by standard pay scales E2 for JTO/JAO Equivalent and E3 for SDE/AO/Equivalent. It was informed that the official inputs submitted by AIGETOA is being examined and some details have been sought from BSNL on the issue of addressing EPP within the executive-level career progression and the extension of E7 at SG JAG Level. BSNL is likely to submit their inputs in a week’s time. Thereafter association shall be having another meeting at DoT for further discussion on the issue.

2] Promotions issue in various Grades and Streams:

We once again highlighted the need for introducing the mechanism of promotion through personal upgradation of the post by introduction of an upper cap on the residency period across a grade. In other words, the conventional post-based promotion requires a minimum residency period to be eligible for posts, the lack of availability of sufficient posts and various litigations delay the whole promotions. Introduction of an upper cap on the residency period will enable management to overcomes the pending litigations and ensures promotion of the executives after spending the maximum stipulated time in the grade. This mechanism also takes care of the government guidelines on reservation and other statutory norms. We expressed and explained that it was unfortunate BSNL proposal was turned down without any detailed discussions between stakeholders and the same needs a revisit by DoT also. We requested for reconsideration of the association inputs in this regard which is the only way to ensure satisfactory career progression to the executives of BSNL.

3] Extension of Pension Benefits Under CCS Pension Rules 1972 to BSNL Employees Whose Recruitment Process was Initiated by DoT prior to the establishment of BSNL on 01.10.2000:

The matter was discussed in detail once again with DDG (Estt). She informed that issue was deliberated in detail with DoP&T and DoPPW wherein they have categorically stated that if there was any issue with respect to the appointment, same should have been raised at the time of appointment. Further, it was told that since the appointment has been accepted in a PSU, the pension can not be granted. The Team AIGETOA however, countered the arguments told that issue has not been taken in its proper perspective and submitted various documents, court judgments and told that option under CCS rules must be extended to all the similarly placed employees and in the wake of fresh documents submitted, issue needs a fresh examination and deliberation by DoT. DDG (Estt) accepted our request and assured that all the inputs given along with documents shall be re-examined as assured earlier. If any further clarification is needed, the same shall be asked. However, she was non-committal on the outcome. AIGETOA shall keep its persuasion on till we achieve the issue.

4] Implementation of 3rd PRC in BSNL:

It was told that issue needs discussions, deliberations and decision at the highest level in view of the requirement for the waiver of affordability clause. AIGETOA shall discuss the issue in forthcoming meetings with higher ups at DoT and government echelons. The association remains committed to resolution of the issue of pay scales, pay loss, 3rd PRC, 30 percent SAB and Promotions and shall be taking all efforts to get the same resolved under the guidance of our umbrella organization BMS and request one and all to support AIGETOA in its endeavors for the same.

The meeting points discussed by AIGETOA leaders with Director HR on 24th April 2024 :

Thereafter the team AIGETOA met Director (HR) BSNL and updated him about the discussions at DoT and requested for his intervention in expediting the inputs from BSNL. We also discussed upon other issues and told that many committed issues in the agenda meeting and the tri party meeting have not seen the light of the day yet. We requested for a follow up discussion on the committed issues. Various issues discussed are as stated below:

1] Issuance of Promotion Orders across various Grades:

AIGETOA took strong objection of non-issuance of promotion orders citing code of conduct. We said that it is understood that management is willing to keep the promotions (SCF as well as LICE) on hold citing the code of conduct and is seeking clarification from DoT and ECI while there is no such bar on issuance of these promotions. We also highlighted that even pure government organizations like Prasar Bharti and Department of Posts have issued promotion orders while BSNL despite being a PSU is unnecessarily trying to drag the issue on non-existent fears. We highlighted that BSNL can immediately issue almost around 9 to 10 thousand promotions as per the suggestions extended by AIGETOA for covering the promotions of all eligible but it seems BSNL is in no mood to explore the possible way outs. This is in complete contravention to the assurance made at the highest level of MoC.

We expressed that patience of executives is running out which will ultimately lead to a state of complete demotivation, unrest and chaos. We requested for the personal intervention of Director HR in settling out the issues and expressed that his positivity and firmness is a ray of hope for us and hence his intervention and involvement will definitely result in getting the solutions as per the satisfaction of all. We also requested for inclusion of another 1000 vacant posts in DGM grade for promotions in the SDE to AGM grade and AGM to DGM grade. Similarly, we requested for diversion of posts from SET Quota to SCF/LICE Quota to give more opportunity to the aspiring executives. Similarly, we highlighted same mechanism can be used in Finance Stream to take care of the pending litigations. We also requested for ensuring DPC in JTO to SDE grade and JAO to AO grade by filling up the consequential vacancies arising out of the promotions in higher grade. Director HR agreed to personally intervene and address any hurdles to ensure that the promotion orders are released soon. He also assured that suggestion of the association with respect to coverage of maximum possible promotions is being examined with holistic approach. We also updated Director HR about our discussion at DOT with respect to introduction of a maximum cap on residency in grade and promotions as personal upgradation of the post to the next level. We requested him to explore the possibility once again which will end all the unnecessary litigations across various streams and grades.

2] Transparency and Timely Completion of LICE Process :

We also said that it was disheartening to note that the provisional keys and candidates attempted sheets was made available on the portal of 4-5 days and that too after rigorous follow up by the association. We said delay in one step gives rise to delay in final process. We also suggested that the grievance window must be made available immediately without any delay. We also emphasized upon the importance of releasing a standard operating procedure (SOP) along with defined timelines for the entire LICE process. This would ensure transparency and timely completion of all activities. Director (HR) acknowledged the suggestions and assured that the LICE will be completed within a specified timeframe.

3] Non-submission of reply by BSNL to DoT w.r.t tri-party meeting :

Team AIGETOA informed Director HR that the written response has not been submitted from BSNL to DoT, leading to delays in the process. We also informed about the negative attitude of some officers involved in the process and requested for his intervention in sensitizing such officers. Director (HR) assured us for positive action on the matter.

Laptop reimbursement & TA/DA Issue :

We thanked Director (HR) for writing to circles with respect to the reimbursement of laptop issue and also requested for issuance of the orders for revised mobile reimbursement limits as the same is unduly delayed despite acceptance. We also highlighted the attention of Director (HR) on the slow progress with regard to revision of TA/DA/Transport Allowance and told that even the committee has not been constituted yet. Director (HR) assured for an immediate action in this regard.

We also requested for processing the Request Transfer cases in expeditious manner as executives need to plan for the studies of their children etc. and unnecessary delay gives rise to uncertainty. With regard to the long stay transfers, we once again emphasized that the transfer should be need based and necessary exemption must be extended with respect to genuine reasons like Medical, Children Education, Female employees, Single Parent, Caregiver to the Ailing Parents and Dependents suffering from disability. We requested for a clear and transparent approach in this regard so that all affected persons can be given equal treatment.

Director (HR) told that he has guided his team to work on the issues and all the commitments made shall be honored. He told AIGETOA team that he has sought action taken report from all the involved units and assured us for a review meeting on the agenda items and commitments made in a few days’ time after receipt of the ATRs from various units.

GS AIGETOA writes to BSNL Management conveying the Strong resentment amongst Executives against Special Privileges Granted to Management Trainees – breaking seniority hierarchy, posting MTs as OA head and direct reporting to BA Head – A Complete violation of BSNL hierarchy structure, extending additional privileges going beyond the existing rules while the same benevolence is invisible while dealing with the cadre issues of Executives belonging to Telecom, Finance and other streams.

Click here for the letter

GS AIGETOA Shri Ravi Shil Verma, GS BTEU Shri R C Pandey, All India President AIGETOA Shri Veerabhadra Rao and AGS AIGETOA Shri Sunil Kumar Gautam met Joint Secretary (Admin), Shri Sunil Kumar Verma at Sanchar Bhawan on 11th March 2024 for a follow up meeting on the issues discussed in the tripartite meeting held on 16th February 2024.

Our team informed JS Admin that as sought in the meeting, the detailed and reasoned representation with respect to the implementation of E2 and E3 Pay Scales for JTO/JAO and SDE/AO equivalent containing the AIGETOA’s response to the contentions raised by DOT has been submitted. JS Admin said that he is in receipt of the submissions and the same has been sent to the concerned section for examination. We shared all the inputs to JS Admin and explained our points in detail. JS Admin assured that things will be considered with a positive perspective and this long pending issue necessitates a firm resolution now.

Issue of Superannuation and Promotions was also discussed in detail wherein we apprised him of the consistent neglect of the executives in BSNL. We also highlighted the difference in treatment of BSNL Recruits who are governed by DPE Guidelines vis-a-vis those covered by CCS Rules as far as pensionary benefits are concerned. We also apprised JS Admin with regard to the notification of SET RRs and highlighted how BSNL has been undermining its own talent pool with similar qualifications. JS Admin assured that matter has been noted by DOT and necessary action shall definitely be taken to the satisfaction of the employees and in the right earnestness.

The issue of 3rd PRC and Pension Revision was also discussed, however there is not much development on the same since last meeting except for the fact that wage negotiations in BSNL has started.

Comments on other agenda points submitted by BMS Team is being sought from various sections of DoT and BSNL and the same is being monitored at the highest level.

Thereafter, we met Director PSU also and explained to him about the issues. He assured us that all the issues are being examined as per discussions and in case of need, he will discuss the issues with us once again.

The team of AIGETOA and BTEU is consistently following up on all issues and are slated to meet few more officers at DoT and Communication Ministry in the next few days.

The support and encouragement from Executives and Employees will definitely motivate us to work more and more in order to attain the resolution of the long pending HR issues for the benefits of the employees of BSNL.

As per discussions held in Agenda Meeting dated 9th February 2024 and in the tripartite meeting held subsequently on 16th February 2024, GS AIGETOA submits the inputs of AIGETOA on Extending the standard pay scales of E2 to JTO/JAO/equivalent grades and E3 to SDE/AO/Equivalent grades. The objection raised by DoT on the five time bound up-gradations can be easily overcome by ending the discrimination in grant of JAG Selection Grade Pay Scale as E7 to absorbed Group ‘B’ Executives in accordance with DOT letter dated 26.08.2008 and DPE OM dated 24.12.2012 and inclusion of the same in EPP – It will impart great motivation to the Young Executives necessary in view of recent revival package and vast business by the Govt to resurrect the BSNL. In the Tripartite meeting held on 16th February 2024, GS AIGETOA was asked to submit the reasoned representation against the contentions raised by DoT for negating the replacement of E1A and E2 A pay Scales by E2 and E3. In the representation, AIGETOA has submitted the counter reply to the contentions raised by DoT and how the Scales can be replaced without cascading and not disturbing the five Time bound upgradations as per EPP.

Click here for the Letter to Member Services

Click here for the Letter to Director HR

The meeting was chaired by Shri A K Sahu, Member (Services), Digital Commission, DoT. The meeting was attended by Shri Sunil Kumar Verma – Jt Secretary (Admin), Smt Roshni Sohni – DDG (Estt) DoT, Shri Virendra Prasad – DDG (SR) DoT and other officers from DoT Side. BSNL was represented by Shri Kalyan Sagar Nippani – Director (HR), BSNL Board, Shri Adhir Singhal – PGM (Pers), Smt. Anita Johri – PGM (SR), Shri S P Singh – PGM (Estt) and other officers from BSNL HR unit. BMS Affiliated Association and Unions (AIGETOA, BTEU-BSNL, BDPS) were represented by Shri Veerabhadra Rao, Shri Ravi Shil Verma, Shri R C Pandey, Shri Aftab Ahmad Khan, Shri Badri Kumar Mehta, Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, Shri Sunil Kumar Gautam and Shri Veerendra Yadav.

The holding of Tripartite discussions between DoT, BSNL and BMS Affiliated Associations and Unions is one of the landmark occurrences and the need for same was felt because every time, with respect to our issues, the ball kept rolling between DoT and BSNL leading to the delay in resolution and a big communication gap. That was the reason, Hon’ble MoC desired that a tripartite meeting be convened so as a well deliberated and informed discussion can take place.

The meeting started with a welcome note by Hon’ble Member (Services) who assured that DoT is open to all suggestions and committed to resolve the long pending issues. JS (Admin) also welcomed all the participants and assured that DoT and BSNL will work as team for addressing the issues pertaining to employees. GSs of AIGETOA and BTEU thanked Hon’ble MoC, Secretary DoT and Member (Services) for convening this tripartite meeting which was the need of the hour. The General Secretaries also extended the gratitude on behalf of employees to the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India and Hon’ble MoC for ensuring the series of revival packages to BSNL which was almost on ventilator few years ago. We expressed that but for the support received from government, the National Telecom career was almost in a state of Peril. We expressed our thankfulness to Government of India for providing the much-needed support for BSNL and assured that each and every employee of BSNL is committed to the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat in Telecom and will stand firmly in support of all the endeavours taken by Government of India for the benefit of organisation in general and for the benefit of Nation in Particular. The employees of BSNL have also performed to perfection in realising this dream of nation and now its high time that the employees must be rewarded with resolution of their long pending dues.

Discussions on all the agenda points submitted to Hon’ble MoC was held in a positive and cordial manner.

1] Residual issues of 2nd PRC related to implementation of standard pay scales of E2 and E3 for the initial two levels of executive grade to BSNL Recruited Executives and issue related to various pay losses:

Association side informed the chair that issue has been pending since long and it is a residual issue of 2nd PRC. It was highlighted that two issues of 2nd PRC (Pay Scales for initial two grades and 30 % SAB) was left out to be implemented by BSNL and the irony is that the issue was affecting mostly the new recruits and a huge pay loss is being faced by executives due to this negation of the Pay Scales. We further said that the contentions raised by DoT while negating the Standard Pay Scales of E2 and E3 for initial two grades do not hold true and the issue can very well be settled without cascading effect. We also told that while DoT has mentioned that DPE has given concurrence to the Presidential orders of 2017, in an RTI reply filed by AIGETOA, DPE has replied that no such endorsement or concurrence has been given. We presented the documents in support of our submissions. We also told that DoT’s contention of giving the E1A scale to BSNL recruits erroneously also do not hold any substance as there is no mention of E1 scales for BSNL recruits in the PO issued for notification of E1A and E2A Pay scales by DoT in 2004 and it is categorically mentioned that all the BSNL Recruits at the level of JTO/JAO shall be placed in the E1A Payscale of 9850/- as the initial basic. All the details were explained to the chair and notably the DoT side was convinced on the submissions from association/union side.

JS (Admin) queried that how cascading effect can be avoided. The same was very well explained and demonstrated by our team that issue can be resolved without cascading effect and also the 5 Time Bound Upgradations shall be kept intact. Inputs were sought from BSNL side also which was given in a positive manner. A consensus view emerged that the issue needs to be re-examined in light of the submissions put forward by the Association.

It was agreed that issue shall be jointly examined by the team of BSNL officers and officers from DoT and inputs shall be taken from AIGETOA on the methodology suggested.

We also raised the issue of pending proposals of BSNL Board for extending E1 plus five increments and Notional Pay Fixation from 01.10.2000 for the Civil/Electrical/PA/PS/PPS etc. streams which were agreed to be examined. It was also informed that BSNL has currently three set of initial basics and due to this many executives are a subject of Pay Loss. The committee constituted for resolving the pay loss issues by BSNL must submit its report and resolve the issues.

2] Implementation of 30% Superannuation benefit to the Direct Recruits of BSNL as per the recommendation of 2nd PRC including creation of PRMB fund:

The issue was briefed to the chair and it was highlighted that despite provisions made by DPE, BSNL while implementing the 2nd PRC benefits in totality for all other groups, didn’t implement the 30% Superannuation Benefit for BSNL Recruits. We informed that even DoT, while issuing the Presidential Orders has directed BSNL to recommend on the 30% Superannuation Benefit but still the same was completely negated by BSNL. The necessary documents were presented in the meeting.

BSNL side updated the current status. Further details were sought by DoT team. Director HR said that management is considerate on the issue and discussions with AIGETOA and BTEU has been held in this regard. BSNL side affirmed that they shall be taking all necessary action to extend due justice. JS (Admin) directed BSNL team to discuss with AIGETOA and BTEU and share the final conclusion in this regard.

3] Implementation of 3rd PRC:

AIGETOA/BTEU team strongly demanded to extend 3rd PRC benefits to BSNL employees and expressed that given the role of BSNL in nation building and realizing the dream of Swadeshi 4G, affordability clause for implementing 3rd PRC must be waived off in respect of BSNL. DoT team asked about the inputs in respect of moving the case for waiver of affordability clause. It was explained by our team and supporting reasons were also submitted. The inputs provided by AIGETOA/BTEU side regarding exemption from affordability clause were appreciated and it is decided that it needs further deliberations between DOT and Association with more inputs to move in correct path to achieve the goal.

4] Extending the Promotional Avenues for BSNL Executives:

The issue of pending promotions was explained in detail to the chair. The treatment given to the executives of BSNL wrt the career progression, extending only one promotion to the professionally qualified executives in a span of 23 years, the competitive qualified candidates being made junior despite qualifying for the earlier vacancy years, not extending sufficient promotional posts to the executives/non-executives was explained in detail along with supporting documents. We also highlighted that 1200 vacancies are available in DGM grade which can very well be utilized to extend promotions in the grade of AGM to DGM, SDE to AGM and JTO to SDE. We also highlighted the fact that despite the issue of Rota-Quota remaining pending before BSNL Board, BSNL has gone ahead with revising the seniority, ignoring its own approval of the proposal by Management Committee of BSNL and also the directions of DoT to not to make “the Dewan Chand Case a precedence in future cases”. We strongly demanded promotions for the all eligible SDEs to AGM grade which is the only way to ensure justice. We also highlighted the need for increasing the promotional posts so that career aspirations can be met especially in view of the new Projects of BharatNet, 4G Saturation etc. being handled by BSNL. We said that there is huge need to extend the pending promotions across all grades and stream viz Telecom, Finance, Civil, Electrical, Architecture, CSS, PA-PS-PPS etc. grades.

BSNL side was asked to inform the status vis-à-vis the promotions across various grades and streams and was directed to take suitable actions to ensure justice. BSNL side assured that the issue raised with respect to promotions shall be considered and deliberations have been held with AIGETOA in this regard. BSNL team assured that all necessary action shall be taken to extend relief to the executives with respect to their career progressions aspects. AIGETOA and BTEU was asked to submit their inputs with respect to increase in promotional posts and it was assured that suggestions shall be considered holistically during the restructuring review exercise.

5] Revision in Transport, TA/DA and other allowances at par with current market conditions:

Our Team explained to the chair that employees of BSNL are being forced to work on 1996 rates of TA/DA/Transport etc. and there is a need to review the same at par with current rates else there will be huge reluctance in the employees to perform the outstation duties and also route duties. BSNL Team assured to revisit the rates and informed that management remains firm on the commitments made in the recently held agenda meeting with AIGETOA.

6] Pension Revision of BSNL/MTNL Pensioners at par with Central Government Pensioners and implementation of Hon’ble PB CAT Judgement Dated 20/09/2023:

The issue was deliberated by the team in detail. It was informed by DoT side that their team is working on the issue with close co-ordination with Ministry of Expenditure. It was also informed that possible options are being worked upon and all necessary efforts shall be taken in line with the earlier assurances given to the forum. DoT expressed their support on the issue and assured that needful will be done to ensure the settlement of this long pending due.

7] Exercising option for Old Pension Scheme and most humble request to grant one time option to be covered under the CCS (Pension) Rules 1972 for the executives/non-executives whose recruitment process was initiated by DoT before formation of BSNL:

Team AIGETOA/BTEU explained the issue to the chair and requested for giving due consideration to the employees of BSNL whose recruitment was notified during DoT period.

DDG (Estt) informed that the issue was referred to DoP&T who have negated the same for employees of BSNL. We said that the issue has not been dealt properly and same needs re-consideration especially in view of the recent judgments by Hon’ble Supreme Court. It was agreed to consider the fresh inputs given by AIGETOA/BTEU.

It was decided that DDG (Estt) shall be holding a separate meeting with AIGETOA/BTEU to discuss on the fresh inputs. It was categorically assured that issue shall be given its due consideration and every possible attempt shall be taken by DoT to ensure the option for these BSNL recruits provided the inputs and documents are sufficient to prove the same before DoP&T.

8] Extending the facilities for person with disabilities (PwBDs) which is defined under RPwD Act 2016 or instructions given by DOPT time to time by BSNL in its true spirit:

Association side explained that the guidelines with respect to extending the facilities for PwBDs have not been implemented in totality. Further we also requested for directing BSNL to implement the recently notified DoP&T guidelines with respect to reservation in promotions. BSNL was directed to ensure the applicable guidelines expeditiously.

9] Restoration of Outdoor Medical Limits to its initial constitution of BSNL MRS scheme:

BSNL side was asked to examine the request.

10] Revision in NEPP (Non-Executives Promotional Policy):

The issue was very well explained by the BTEU team and they requested for its revisit. BSNL side was directed to examine the possibility of revision for ensuring a smooth career progression.

11] Lifting the ban on compassionate ground appointments:

The need for lifting the ban on Compassionate Ground Appointments was explained to the chair by the team. We emphasized upon the hardships faced by the dependents in the case of untimely demise of the earning member of the family. We requested for immediate lifting of the ban.

DoT/BSNL team was not very committal on the same. However, the need for creation of death relief fund was acknowledged and suitable action in this regard was assured.

12] Restoration of LTC:

The issue was discussed however no commitment was received in this regard.

The meeting concluded with vote of thanks. It was assured that another review shall be done through a tripartite meeting with respect to the progress and development made on the decisions taken in today’s meeting. It was also assured by the DoT side that an officer from DoT shall be deputed for participating in the deliberations with BSNL on need basis so that time bound action on the issues raised can be ensured and any communication gap can be avoided.

We also wish to inform that the meeting was held in the backdrop of the assurances made by Hon’ble MoC to the team of AIGETOA, BTEU and BDPS and all the progress is being directly monitored by the Hon’ble MoC office. We have also apprised the office of Hon’ble MoC and our Umbrella organization BMS about the discussions and deliberations held and decision taken. We expect that with such an active involvement of all concerned parties, that day is not very far when all such issues shall be resolved in totality.

Friend’s, today’s development proves the fact that for resolution of issues, you need to have Perseverance, Pursuance and Patience. Issues are resolved with amicable discussions across table and firmness in the approach and we firmly affirm that we will not be lagging in any of these aspects. We will consider today’s discussions as fruitful only when each issue sees the light of the day and reaches to every member in the form of resolution. We also take this opportunity to request all to support the endeavours of the AIGETOA, BTEU-BSNL and BDPS under the umbrella of Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh and make us stronger to ensure the resolution of all the long pending HR issues of BSNL employees.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Hon’ble MoC and his office for personally monitoring the developments, Secretary DoT, Member (Services), JS (Admin), DDG (Estt), DDG (SR) and their team for initiating the discussions at DoT Level. We also extend our thanks to Hon’ble CMD BSNL, Director HR, PGM (Pers), PGM (Estt), PGM (SR) and HR team for the meeting.

Above all, we are thankful to our umbrella organisation BMS for their consistent patronage and pursuance of HR issues of BSNL employees at the highest level.

Click Here for the Glimpses of Meeting at DoT

Click Here for details in PDF

Dear Esteemed Executives,

We are pleased to inform you of the forthcoming tripartite meeting aimed at addressing longstanding HR concerns. Through a series of constructive discussions with Hon’ble MoC Shri Ashwini Vaishnav Ji, Team AIGETOA and BTEU BSNL, operating under the aegis of Bhartiya Mazdoor Sangh, have made significant strides towards resolution of the long pending HR issues.

In our latest engagement, Hon’ble MoC underscored the necessity of convening a tripartite dialogue comprising representatives from the Department of Telecommunications, BSNL Management, and the BMS-affiliated Associations and Unions of BSNL. This pivotal meeting aims to meticulously deliberate on the issues raised by AIGETOA and BTEU BSNL, with an earnest commitment towards resolution.

In accordance with the assurance provided by Hon’ble MoC, the tripartite meeting has been scheduled for February 16, 2024. During this session, the concerns delineated in the memorandum submitted by AIGETOA and BTEU BSNL will be thoroughly examined to chart a well-informed course of action. Subsequently, the outcomes of our deliberations will be communicated to Hon’ble MoC and Hon’ble Secretary DoT, facilitating prompt action on pending matters and conclusive resolutions.

We are heartened by the empathetic stance adopted by Hon’ble MoC towards the issues confronting the BMS-affiliated Associations and Unions of BSNL. With a positive outlook, we anticipate constructive discussions, particularly regarding resolution of Standard Pay Scales, Pay Loss issues, 30 Percent SAB, Government Pension for BSNL recruited whose recruitment process was initiated by DoT before the formation of BSNL, Promotions for all eligible executives, NEPP Review, 3rd PRC relaxing the affordability clause, Perks and Allowances Revision, Pension Revision, among others. The meeting will also focus on the issues pertaining to Pan India Roll out of 4G/5G services and other viability related issues of BSNL. Rest assured, our collective efforts thus far are poised to culminate in success, buoyed by the unwavering support and well wishes of the entire BSNL family.

Tripartite Meeting (DoT, BSNL & AIGETOA-BTEU) on 16th Feb 2024. Click here for Notice

A detailed discussion on the matter of E2-E3 was held with the Hon’ble Member (Finance). Team AIGETOA at Karnataka Circle has submitted various inputs and justifications with respect to the proposal of E2 scales for JTO/JAO/Equivalent and E3 scales for SDE/AO/Equivalent to Member (Finance) and seeks his help to settle the long matter, which is to be approved by the DOT.

Member (Finance) has listened to the AIGETOA viewpoint very carefully & assured the AIGETOA team to help in the resolution of the matter.

The Team AIGETOA was led by Shri Kunal Kumar, ACS Karnataka who is also a member of the AIGETOA Pay Scale committee.

Click here for Memorandum Submitted

Click here for Glimpses of Meeting

Team AIGETOA comprising of Shri Badri Kumar Mehta, Shri Vivek Kumar Singh and Shri Wasi Ahmad met senior officers in DoT i.e. Dr Mahesh Shukla Member Services, Shri S K Verma JS Admin, Smt. Roshni Madam DDG Estab, Shri Raiti Madava Rao Director PSU and held discussion in continuity of our earlier submission on E2-E3 Scale and discussed about the status of our representation on E2-E3 scale, which is to be approved by the DoT.

Click here for the letter

We taken up the matter of our representation with supporting documents on standard scale E2-E3, which was submitted on 23rd Sep’2022. It was apprised to us that the representation given by us has been processed as per request of the association to re-examine the case for approval of E2-E3 scale meant for JTO/JAO and SDE/AO Equivalent grades in BSNL. It is important to note that with the consistent and aggressive follow up meeting of AIGETOA on the matter of E2-E3 Scale in DoT has resulted in reopening of the case. The case has been reopened after a gap of almost 4-5 years by the DoT and it is going to be vital in coming days towards the permanent settlement of E2-E3 case for BSNL Executives. The file related to standard Pay Scale is currently with establishment Section in the DoT.

In the meeting with Member Services and JS Admin, we appraised the merit of the case once again and replied the queries raised to us. Both the senior officers have assured to examine the issue positively and see the best possibilities in the matter. Earlier we met the Director PSU and DDG Estab also on the matter and spoken in detail on the issue. Here onwards a regular follow up meeting will be held in the DoT towards every movement on the subject matter till final approval of E2-E3 scale is not accorded by the DoT to BSNL.

Later the Team AIGETOA met with DDG Estab and enquired about the SDE RR concurrence by the DoT as assured to us in last visit. She told that the file is with the section and it is being examined and very soon, the necessary consent will be sent to the BSNL after approval from the competent authority in the DoT.

We are highly thankful to the Member Services, JS Admin and Director PSU for accepting our request to reopen the case, an important step towards approval of E2-E3 Scale for JTO/JAO and SDE/AO in BSNL. Team AIGETOA extended Deepawali Greetings to all senior officers.

Click here for snaps

Earlier, Team AIGETOA also met to PS to the Hon’ble MOC, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw ji for seeking meeting with the Hon’ble Minister in continuity of our previous meeting held on 29.07.2022. He was kind enough to discuss the matter and assured to appraise the request to the Hon’ble Minister and meeting will be schedule soon at his convenience.

Team AIGETOA comprising of Shri Wasi Ahmad GS, Shri Badri Kumar Mehta FS and Shri Vivek Kumar Singh AGS visited the Sanchar Sadan, New Delhi to meet officials of the DoT for follow up meeting on SDE RR clearance and Standard Pay Scale E2-E3.

After approval of BSNL Board, the new SDE RR was sent to DoT for clearance to notify the RR. The association was continuously following up in the DoT for its concurrence as sought by BSNL. After continuous follow up the matter, Estab Section of DoT cleared and sent to Fin section for assessing any Pensionary liabilities due to the stagnation clause introduced in the SDE RR and possible conflicts with EPP if any. It is important to note here that SDE RR has a clause of the promotion from JTO to SDE through Personal up-gradation after completion of fix amount of period. In the finance wing, various queries raised and questionnaire sent to the BSNL. After following up in the BSNL, reply of all queries of the DoTwas sent last week. It was confirmed that the reply has been received in the DoT. Teams AIGETOA elaborated all replies in detail with the DDG dealing the subject in DoTand convince him about no financial outgo of the DoT on pension due to the introduction of the stagnation system as well as cleared other doubts also raised in the meeting. It was assured in the meeting to us that after internal deliberation, the file will be processed by next week positively paving the way for clearance of the DoT. In view of above, we are expecting notification of SDE RR by next month surely. Once the notification will be issued, the process of left out JTO Promotion to SDET will be issued immediately through stagnation clause and process for LDCE will also be initiated. 

The discussion on standard pay scale E2-E3 couldn’t be held yesterday as the Member Services was attending the ongoing session at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. So, nowthe matter of Pay Scale will be taken up next week with the Hon’ble Member Services