Today on 2nd Aug 2024, Team AIGETOA had the privilege of meeting with Hon’ble Member of Parliament Lok Sabha, Shri Etela Rajender Ji, representing the Malkajgiri constituency, Telangana, BJP. The meeting focused on critical issues related to BSNL and long pending HR issues.

We apprised the Hon’ble Member of Parliament about current developments within BSNL and emphasized the need for his intervention to resolve long-pending HR issues. Despite minimal financial implications, promotional issues have been ignored, with employees receiving only one promotion over a service span of 22-23 years. Since 2007, there has been no pay revision (3rd PRC) for BSNL employees, which was due in 2017. We also discussed the need for the implementation of standard pay scales (E2 for JTO/JAO and E3 for SDE/AO) and the pay loss for executives recruited on E1A. We strongly urged Shri Etela Rajender Ji to take up these HR issues with the honorable Minister Of Communication at the earliest possible.

During the meeting, we presented the Hon’ble MP with a Bouquet, a BMS Diary, and a Memorandum for forwarding to the Hon’ble Minister of Communication.

Shri Etela Rajender Ji graciously agreed to take up the matter with the Ministry of Communication (MoC) and requested a detailed meeting for AIGETOA and BTEU (BMS-affiliated association and union of BSNL). He also assured us that he would strive to arrange a tri-party meeting with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), BSNL, and AIGETOA & BTEU.

The Hon’ble Member of Parliament expressed his continued support for AIGETOA and BTEU and promised to advocate for our issues with the Hon’ble Minister of Communication. He praised the efforts of BMS in safeguarding employees’ interests across various sectors.

On behalf of AIGETOA – BMS, we extend our heartful thanks for honorable MP sir for sparing his valuable time and for patient listening and also positive assurances in the above issues.

Today Team AIGETOA and BTEU met Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani Ji and had detailed discussion on the issues pertaining to employees especially those of 3rd PRC, Wage Revision for Non Executives, Standard Pay Scales, 30% SAB, PRMB, TA/DA at par with current rates, Promotions in various cadres and Pay Fixation for non executives, Rule 8 Transfers, NEPP etc. We explained each issue in detail and the Hon’ble Minister also responded positively. Details Follow.

Time and again we have been emphasizing on the role of BMS in settling the issues and we once again firmly state that we will resolve all issues in due course. However, employees also need to come forward and extend full support to the AIGETOA and BTEU.

Click here for the Photos of the meeting

Today Team AIGETOA and BTEU met Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar ji, and had detailed discussion with respect to issues related to BSNL and HR. We apprised the Hon’ble Minister about the developments taking place at BSNL and requested for his intervention in extending resolution on the crucial HR issues of BSNL employees which are in a neglected state for almost years. We also highlighted that even promotional issues which are having a zero financial burden are being ignored like anything and they have been extended a single promotion in the entire service length of 22-23 years. We urged for his intervention in settling the HR issues of BSNL.

We also presented the Hon’ble Minister with a bouquet, Shawl and a BMS diary. The Hon’ble Minister was kind enough to immediately take up with the MoC and requested for a detailed meeting for the AIGETOA and BTEU ( BMS affiliated association and union of BSNL). He assured of his continued support to AIGETOA and BTEU and assured that he will take up all the issues with Hon’ble MoC. He also praised the efforts of BMS in protecting the interests of employees spread across various sectors.

Click here for the Photos of the meeting

The recognized Associations and Unions, including AIGETOA, BTEU, SNEA, BSNLEU, and NFTE, along with the Welfare Association SEWA, were invited to a meeting with the CMD BSNL today. The primary purpose of this engagement was to discuss the appointment of BCG Consultancy services for strategic organizational transformation within BSNL, with the aim of establishing the company as a leading brand in the telecom sector.

AIGETOA was represented by Shri Ravi Shil Verma, GS & Shri Pavan Akhand, Dy GS and BTEU was represented by Shri R C Pandey, GS & Shri Ajay Singh, Dy GS.

Key Discussion Points:

Quality of Service (QoS): BCG’s role in enhancing BSNL’s QoS, ensuring reliable and consistent services for customers.

⁠Customer Centricity: Strategies to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, making BSNL the provider of choice.

⁠Sales and Distribution: Optimizing sales strategies and distribution channels for better market reach and revenue growth.

Cost Reduction: Identifying areas to reduce operational costs without compromising service quality.

Performance Management: Implementing effective performance evaluation and improvement systems for employees.

Brand Strengthening & Growth: Developing BSNL’s brand identity and market presence to attract new customers and retain existing ones.

During the meeting, we raised concerns about the rumors of BSNL planning another Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) with the appointment of BCG. The CMD BSNL categorically denied these rumors, confirming that there is no proposal for a VRS and the consultant has also been directed to suggest the measures of utilising the full existing strength.

We also brought attention to the issue of low motivation among field staff, emphasizing the need to address HR issues promptly. GS AIGETOA categorically raised the issue of promotions, Pay Scales and 3rd PRC and sought support of management in addressing these concerns at priority. We also raised the concern on conducting this exercise when multiple rounds of such consultancies have already been done in BSNL with not much appreciable results. CMD BSNL explained that Project Shikhar has helped the organisation in bringing some major structural changes like creation of vertical wise operations, creation of a new vertical of EB, many structural reforms which helped in sustaining this organisation. He said though few consultants couldn’t give desired results but all efforts shall be made to convert BSNL into a profitable organisation through this consultancy exercise. We said unless the internal customers of the organisation i.e. employees of BSNL are motivated and unless their HR issues are addressed, any such exercise will not give the desired results and requested to address the HR issues on priority.

GS BTEU requested that mobile reimbursement be extended to non-executives, recognizing their similar use of BSNL applications in the field. GS BTEU also raised the concerns of non executives like stagnation and lack of promotions and requested to solve them on priority. GS BTEU also requested for implementation of 3rd PRC in BSNL. He also emphasized upon the need for utilisation of JEs in a proper way in organisation and provide them more opportunities of promotion through provisioning of more posts.

In conclusion, we highlighted the importance of addressing HR concerns and transforming BSNL in parallel, ensuring that employee welfare and organizational growth go hand in hand. The meeting concluded with a positive outlook, and we look forward to further constructive dialogue and action towards making BSNL a leading telecom brand.

There shall be a meeting with CMD BSNL on Friday 4.30pm wherein a one to one discussion shall be held on the Purpose, Way Forward, Queries and Suggestions from the association on the proposal for organization transformation.

Click here for letter

All CS/CPs are requested to discuss the provisions within their circles and send the queries/Suggestions to Dy GS Shri Pavan Akhand.

Yesterday, We requested for an informed and interactive session to understand the view points of each other.

AIGETOA extends its thanks to Hon’ble CMD BSNL for accepting the request and PGM SR for arranging the session with Recognized Associations and Unions.

BSNL Work Order (WO) for supply of Consultancy services for Organizational Transformation in Strategic areas of BSNL to become a Leading Brand in Telecom Sector.

Click here for letter

Team AIGETOA consisting of GS AIGETOA Shri Ravi Shil Verma, Dy. GS AIGETOA Shri Pavan Akhand, AGSs Shri Vivek Kumar Singh and Shri Sunil Gautam and All India Convener Shri A A Khan met CMD BSNL on dated 06.05.2024. The meeting was held in the backdrop of proposed meeting between Senior officers of BSNL and DoT for way forward on the Standard Pay Scales issue. The details of the discussion are as stated below:

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

We appraised about the progress on the issue of standard pay scales and requested for the need to push the same from BSNL side. We informed that after much persuasion, DoT has finally reopened the issue and has sought inputs from BSNL. We appraised CMD BSNL that BSNL is likely to submit their inputs in an upcoming meeting which is scheduled to be held on 09.05.2024 at the JS Admin Office in DoT at 3:00 pm. We requested CMD BSNL to give the positive inputs in the upcoming meeting regarding the long pending issue of standard pay scales of E2-E3. It is understood that HR team is working diligently on the issue and is likely to give an impartial input which will help in resolution of the issue. Thereafter association shall be having another meeting at DoT for further discussion on the issue after the BSNL meeting on 09/05/2024.

2] Promotions issue in various Grades and Streams – SDE to AGM through DPC/LICE, AO to CAO, JAO to AOs, AGM to DGM and introduction of Stagnation Clause:

We requested for intervention of Hon’ble CMD BSNL on the struck career progressions of BSNL Executives across all cadres and streams. Somewhere issue is litigation/stay from court of law and somewhere issue is lack of sufficient vacancies. We once again explained CMD BSNL that the only solution to this mess is to introduce the mechanism of promotion through personal upgradation of the post by introduction of an upper cap on the residency period across a grade. We said its high time that citing the road blocks, BSNL must restart working on this proposal take up this matter once again to BSNL Board for approval. CMD BSNL stated that normally it’s very difficult to reopen a closed chapter but still he will try to push it again. CMD BSNL was positive on the suggestion but was non-committal as of now and advised us to wait for some time.

Discussion also took place on the ongoing DPC and LICE process for SDE to AGM Promotions.

We expressed our disappointment for unnecessary hold on the promotions and requested for expediting the same. We also requested CMD BSNL for inclusion of 1000+ vacancies in AGM cadre by executing promotions in SDE to AGM as well as AGM to DGM grade. We also requested for diversion of 300 SET quota vacancies to Promotions Quota as a lot many of the SDEs appearing in the LICE Exams have proved their merit by securing good percentage of marks (Written as well as Apar grades) and it becomes duty of BSNL to give maximum promotional avenues to the executives who have completed their residency in the grade. 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. CMD BSNL appreciated the concern and assured to talk to HR team for exploring what best can be done.

We also requested the intervention of Hon’ble CMD BSNL in completing the review process of PWD executives expeditiously. We emphasised that Personnel cell must be directed to issue the Promotions of all the eligible executives whose DPC was completed in November 2022. We also highlighted the attention of CMD BSNL on the precarious condition of SDE 2007 reversal affected candidates. We requested for an early implementation of the orders from CAT Lucknow Bench.

It was assured to look into the issue expeditiously.

3] Laptop reimbursement, Mobile reimbursements & TA/DA Issue:

We thanked CMD BSNL for directing to 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 which has been approved by Management Committee of the BSNL Board.

We also objected on the approved amount being very low and requested for reconsidering our proposal for enhancing the limits to minimum Rs 20,000/- across the executives irrespective of their grade or posts. CMD BSNL told that sometimes slow start gives rise to many things and didn’t rule out the enhancement further more in future. We also highlighted the attention of CMD BSNL on the slow progress with regard to revision of TA/DA/Transport Allowance and requested for his intervention in this regard.

4] Reviewing of Comprehensive Renting Out Policy (Crop – 2020):

It was intimated to CMD BSNL that various query from the officers has been received regarding Crop-2020 policy in which the BSNL serving employee who took the quarter under CROP policy has to face lots of hardship in the renewal of the quarter after two years on the routine manner. As per clause no-1.8 of the CROP 2020, the CROP Policy shall be reviewed every two years. Association requested CMD BSNL that almost 4 (four) years has passed and same has not been reviewed yet. CMD agreed to review the policy based on the Association inputs after discussing with the team.

GS AIGETOA Shri Ravi Shil Verma and Convener Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch Shri R C Pandey met Director HR and discussed about the immediate resolution of the SDE 2007 reversal issue. In view of the positive order pronounced on 12.03.2024, by Hon’ble CAT Lucknow bench in favour of the suffering executives regarding SDE reversal issue, We requested Dir(HR) to issue necessary directions down the line for immediate implementation and issuance of promotion orders.

We informed Dir(HR) that as per the judgment dated 12th March 2024, Hon’ble CAT Lucknow quashed an order issued by BSNL that reversed an employee’s seniority & promotion and directed the respondents to restore the name of applicants in the seniority list of SDEs within a period of two months.

We requested Dir(HR) that seeing the historical perspective of the case & assurances made in the past in various meetings/occasions to AIGETOA by the management to kindly give positive consideration to the issue and settle this on immediate basis.

Dir(HR) responded positively on the same and told that management is waiting for the written orders from Chennai CAT to take a decision after going through the judgement. We informed that due to some administrative reasons, the written orders from Hon’ble Chennai CAT is a bit delayed. However now that orders from Hon’ble Lucknow CAT has been issued, management can act upon immediately.

Director HR assured that after going through the written orders, the necessary decision shall be taken.

AIGETOA Team is consistently following up on the issue and will try to ensure the resolution expeditiously.

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

Team AIGETOA consisting of GS Shri Ravi Shil Verma, All India Convener Shri A A Khan, Dy GS Shri Pavan Akhand, AGS Shri Vivek Kumar Singh, FS Shri Badri Kumar Mehta and AGS Shri Sunil Gautam met Director HR Dr. N Kalyan Sagar Ji and thereafter CMD BSNL Shri P K Purwar Ji on dated 19th Jan 2024. The team had an extensive discussion on the issue of Pending Promotions across various grades, Remedial actions pertaining to co-existence of the ALTTC and DoT, Protection of UG Cables from theft lying in duct in exchanges. We apprised CMD BSNL about our discussions with respect to issues of Pay, Promotions and Pension with Hon’ble MoC during the series of meetings done in one month by CHQ team and other representatives across India.

1] Promotions across various Cadres:

We apprised CMD BSNL of our recent discussions with Hon’ble MoC on the issue and the assurance of Hon’ble MoC to ensure the promotions across various grades and streams. The pending promotions across various cadres were discussed in detail with association suggesting various measures on how to ensure the promotions of all eligible executives.

We requested CMD BSNL to initiate the process of promotions from AGM to DGM grade across Telecom and other streams. Discussions on our submissions given earlier took place and CMD BSNL informed that he has already directed his team to ensure promotions wherever there is no stay from court of law. We emphasized that there is a way out and efforts can be undertaken to ensure the promotions from AGM to DGM in Telecom stream also. We once again explained and presented our suggestions on how the promotions can be achieved in Telecom Stream also. CMD BSNL was convinced by our submissions and told that he has no issues if any legal complexity doesn’t arise and there is no contempt before any court. CMD BSNL assured us that he will discuss with his team and if found feasible, he will direct the concerned section to initiate the promotions across AGM to DGM in Telecom Stream also.

We also informed that despite discussions many a time, the seniority list of AGMs promoted in 2018 has still not been issued and requested for his intervention in issuance of their regular seniority list. CMD BSNL assured that he will discuss the issue with concerned section.

We once again placed our request for deputing a Senior Supreme Court Lawyer at Chandigarh CAT for speedy disposal of the pending cases in DGM (Ad-hoc to Regular) case which was reciprocated in a positive manner by Hon’ble CMD.

We requested CMD BSNL for exploring the ways as suggested by AIGETOA earlier so that all the eligible executives can be covered for the promotion from SDE to AGM Telecom grade through SCF route, so that further delay in promotions can be avoided and justice can be extended to the candidates waiting for their long-awaited promotions since long. We also suggested the way out on how the promotions from AGM to DGM can take place and the consequential vacancies arising out of these promotions can be utilized for covering the promotions in SDE to AGM cadre. We also requested Hon’ble CMD BSNL for ensuring that DPC in SDE to AGM Cadre is done without any further delay.

CMD BSNL was very positive on the contentions raised by us in this regard and appreciated the fact that there is need to resolve the issue. He said that as per the earlier discussions with AIGETOA and his assurances, He got the mechanism of Promotions through Personal Upgradation in a fixed time bound manner approved from Board but the same was negated by DoT because of the objections raised by some corners. We requested for trying the same once again on which CMD BSNL though non-committal but was not negative. (AIGETOA doesn’t want to take any names but leave it open for the executives to decide who were those corners who derailed this mechanism and what action they have taken till date to ensure promotions through regular mode after derailing that mechanism).

We also requested to increase the sanctioned posts in promotional cadres across various streams which can very easily be accommodated within the existing total sanctioned strength of the organization. We also requested CMD BSNL for directing the section for placing a fresh prayer before Hon’ble Chandigarh CAT for pronouncing the judgment in AO to CAO case.

CMD BSNL has given his positive assurance on consideration of the consequential vacancies for promotions in the lower grade simultaneously, which will open the channel for promotions in all grades including AGM to DGM, SDE to AGM, JTO to SDE and similarly AO to CAO, JAO to AO. AIGETOA CHQ will continue its pursuance to ensure that all the pending promotions happen at the earliest and slowly and steadily, we are moving towards the goal.

Discussion on the promotional issues of CSS cadre, PA, PS and PPS cadre also took place and we requested for expediting the pending promotions also. We also highlighted that there is some issue in Roster preparation and calculation of posts also on which, no response has been received from the nodal section. We also requested CMD BSNL to consider the promotions from AGM to DGM in CSS cadre also which is pending since long despite availability of the vacancies. CMD BSNL assured for a positive action on the same. We also impressed upon the need for increasing posts in these streams also as there will be a huge stagnation in the respective cadres as per the existing strength.

2] Protection of UG Cables from theft and its disposal on “as is where is basis”:

We highlighted that there has been a continuous reporting of theft cases of UG Cables from the duct of exchanges. We expressed that the cables are very costly and suggested their disposal on as is where is basis at local level at least for those primary ug cables which are lying in the duct connected to exchanges. We said that at least these cables must be asked to be extracted immediately and may be auctioned immediately after extraction as per the prevailing rules. Just because, it is difficult to extract the cables lying outside the exchange should not be a reason to delay the cables within the ducts connected to exchange premises.

CMD BSNL appreciated our concern and assured for issuance of necessary instructions to field units.

3] Issue related to co-existence of ALTTC with DoT, Shifting to Jaipur:

We informed our discussions on this issue with Hon’ble MoC and his assurance with respect to the co-existence of ALTTC with DoT. CMD BSNL told that Hon’ble MoC has discussed the same with him also and has expressed his desire to finding out a solution where the existence of both the institutions can be ensured. CMD BSNL informed that accordingly a meeting of Member (Services), Director General and Director HR BSNL is scheduled to be held tentatively on 24th Jan 2024 in this regard to discuss the way forward and to explore if an amicable solution protecting the interests of both the organizations can be found out. We gave our suggestions so that shifting ALTTC to any other city can be avoided and by exploring ways with mutual understanding between BSNL and DOT for Co-existence.

4] Discussion on SDE Reversal issue:

We highlighted the status of the court case before hon’ble CMD and apprised him of AIGETOA Team’s discussions with the committee members and the assurances made by management on the issue. We requested that now that applicants have won in court, BSNL should now issue the promotion orders as per earlier assurances made to this association instead of trying to make the issue more complex under the influence of some other groups and disgruntled elements within the system who doesn’t want this issue to be resolved.

5] Targeting the Whistle blowers by local management, request for intervention by CMD BSNL :

We also highlighted the recent incidences wherein the whistle blowers are being targeted by the local management and requested for his intervention in directing circles to ensure that such whistle blowers are not targeted just because they dared to raise the issue of wrong doings. We also requested CMD BSNL to ensure parity in actions while dealing with cases of corruption and financial misappropriation. We highlighted the instances of recently highlighted cases where management has failed to take any action while the cases of much lesser gravity has been dealt very harshly. CMD BSNL assured us that he is determined to ensure zero tolerance with regard to corruption and action shall be ensured in all such cases which has come to his notice. CMD BSNL also assured that whistle blowers shall be given due protection.

6] Discussion on clearing Rule 8 cases:

We also raised the issue with respect to non-clearance of Rule 8 by many circles. We highlighted another issue faced wherein if any rule 8 applicant changes the option for circle, his application is being counted at the bottom while ideally his waiting list should remain the same. We requested for ensuring a mechanism wherein JTOs can get transferred to their circles. Especially the problem in hard tenure circles and bigger circles like MH is quite grave where there is huge waiting list and accommodation is not being extended to the cleared cases also. We requested for issuance of suitable directions to the concerned circles.

The meeting lasted for almost an hour and various aspects were discussed in detail and we extended our thanks to Hon’ble CMD BSNL for sparing his valuable time and appreciating the concern of the employees associated with the issues.

Earlier the team met Dr. N Kalyan Sagar, Director (HR) and discussed all the above issues and the proposed way forward. We also apprised him of our discussion with Hon’ble MoC. Discussion on Long Stay Transfers, clarification in immunity guidelines also took place with the team.

The issues of Pay and Pension shall be taken up in the next meeting. We have informed management about our discussions with Hon’ble MoC on these issues and we expect a firm positive outcome on the residual issues of 2nd PRC very soon.

Friends,

Team AIGETOA believes in consistent persuasion and rigorous follow ups. We don’t believe in creating propaganda as we know that issue will be resolved with persuasion, suitable presentation and pointed discussion and not through flattery, personality cult or event management. Accordingly, we have involved ourselves for point-to-point discussions at various levels including that of BSNL Management, DoT, Hon’ble MoSC and Hon’ble MoC. We discuss the issue on merit and we don’t hesitate in raising the issues even if it is unpleasant to management. The results of these efforts will be visible to all very soon. While post MV, others have gone into hibernation and have stopped even updating about the issues, Team AIGETOA remains at forefront in pursuance of issues and is working with same sincerity and seriousness.

We leave it on to the executives to decide by themselves. We request your firm and unparalleled support from for the resolution of the issues.

A delegation from the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), representing BSNL employees, met with Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw Ji, the Honorable Minister of Communications (MoC), on the evening of January 15, 2024. The meeting, which lasted for approximately one hour was led by Shri Ram Nath Ganeshe Ji, All India Secretary and Prabhari Telecom of the BMS.

Key Representatives in the delegation included:

From AIGETOA: All India President Shri Veerabhadhra Rao, General Secretary Shri Ravi Shil Verma, Deputy General Secretary Shri Pavan Akhand and Assistant General Secretary Shri Vivek Kumar Singh.

From BTEU: President Shri V V S Satyanarayana and General Secretary Shri R C Pandey.

Click here for Glimpses of Meeting

The following issues were discussed in detailed:

Implementation of Standard Pay Scales of E2 and E3 for the initial two levels of executive grade to BSNL Recruited Executives:

Hon’ble MoC was very receptive to the issue and told that he is aware of the issue and will definitely resolve the same. We informed that this is a very old issue pending since 01.01.2007 for implementation and doesn’t holds any relationship with the current financial status of BSNL. We also informed that BSNL may be the only PSU which is having three initial basics as on date and all the executives’ recruited/promoted post 01.01.2007 are facing huge pay losses due to such disparities. While all PSUs resolved this issue by upgrading the scales, BSNL instead lowered the scale.

Hon’ble MoC listened the issue with patience and assured that he will direct DoT and BSNL to discuss the issue of Pay Scale, Pay loss and Pay Parity with AIGETOA/BTEU BSNL and resolve the same.

Extending the Promotional avenues for BSNL Executives:

The issue of promotions in various cadres was informed to Hon’ble MoC. We explained the number of pending promotions across various cadres, how many executives are affected out of it. We informed that instead of creating avenues for regular promotions, the management is forcing executives to appear in LICE despite all being eligible for promotions through regular channel. We also told that it is highly unjustified for the executives who have been performing and giving their day and nights to BSNL for maintaining the network will not be able to study while those manning the relatively easier positions will get more opportunity for study. Hence this creates a complete imbalance in the system, especially for those working in field units. The issue of seniority was also explained in detail and all the relevant documents, various judgements and legal opinion taken from the retired Justice of Hon’ble Supreme Court was also submitted to him. We told that there is an immediate need for directing BSNL to ensure the promotions of all eligible executives across various grades.

Hon’ble MoC was appreciative of the presentation of AIGETOA and told that he is in concurrence with our submissions that the sufficient opportunities must be provided to each executive so that they can reach to the position of AGMs with sufficient age on their side. He said that he will discuss with CMD BSNL on the issue and will ensure that the BSNL executives get the much awaited promotions without any further delay.

He also assured that he will ensure a promotion mechanism which will be non-discriminatory and that executives must be promoted to AGM/ Equivalent grade with sufficient age profile on their side through regular channel of promotions so that they can aspire to reach to higher positions.

Implementation of 30% Superannuation benefit to the Direct Recruits of BSNL as per the recommendation of 2nd PRC (Pending to be implemented since 01.01.2007 (In fact Pension scheme was to be incorporated after formation of BSNL from 01.10.2000)):

Hon’ble minister understood the issue in detail, sought many clarifications and was ultimately satisfied on the merit of the issue and assured for positive action on the same. We explained the terms of Gazette Notification of 2000, 2014, BSNL orders wrt 2nd PRC, DPE orders etc. Hon’ble MoC appreciated the concern and sought information on how many employees are affected out of it and reasons for BSNL not extending the same for so long. We informed Hon’ble MoC that almost 38000 thousand employees are affected out of it and hence the issue needs the priority consideration by BSNL and DoT. We also informed the financial implication associated with the issue and reasons given by management for negating the full 30% SAB for so long.

Hon’ble MoC was very sympathetic and considerate on the issue and assured that he shall be directing BSNL/DoT to consider the issue on merit.

Revision in TA/DA, mobile reimbursement policy, other allowances at par with current market conditions, restoration of LTC facility :

The issue was explained in detail to Hon’ble MoC and it was highlighted that the executives below DGM grade are still working on 2002 TA/DA rates and are subject to loss while performing outstation Jobs for BSNL. We told employees are being paid a very meagre amount as TA/DA which discourages all to go for outstation Jobs. We also told that with a mobile of Rs 1500/- BSNL is expecting executives to perform IT oriented Jobs through various Apps and software packages. Without increasing the Mobile Reimbursement Limit, it will be difficult to perform the duties associated with mobile Apps and packages. Hence it is utmost necessary to revise the reimbursement limit to current market conditions.

Hon’ble MoC assured to discuss the same with BSNL management for a reasonable policy for various TA/DA, mobile reimbursement allowances and Restoration of LTC facility.

Implementation of 3rd PRC in BSNL by waiving off the affordability clause for BSNL and finalising the wage negotiation for non-executives:

Hon’ble MoC told us to remain patient and focussed on the growth and development of BSNL and for 4G rollout.

Hon’ble MoC assured that 3rd PRC will definitely become a reality for the BSNL executives, if the current trends continue and BSNL employees who have already proved their worth continue to do so. He further assured BTEU delegates that BSNL shall be asked to complete the wage negotiation at the earliest.

Pension Revision of BSNL/MTNL Pensioners, at par with Central Government Pensioners:

Hon’ble MoC assured categorically that the issue is under active consideration and the same shall be resolved expeditiously.

Discussion on issue of takeover of ALTTC by DoT:

We informed Hon’ble MoC that DoT has taken over the administrative control of ALTTC, but now BSNL’s trainings are suffering and some talks are going on in the direction of shifting the campus to some other place. We requested Hon’ble MoC that BSNL and NTI PRIT should continue to co-exist in line with his earlier assurances.

Hon’ble MoC told that focus of government is to make ALTTC a world class Telecom Centre and research centre of repute. He said that BSNL employees should not worry and their interests shall be protected.

Revision in Non-Executive Promotion Policy:

The issues pertaining to the promotions of non-executives were also discussed in detail. We pressed upon revisiting the policy which was last revised in 2010.

Hon’ble MoC assured that he will direct BSNL and DoT to discuss the matter with BMS BSNL Team and to consider the genuine suggestions given by BTEU with regard to the Non-Executive Promotion Policy.

Lifting the ban on appointments on compassionate grounds:

The issue shall be discussed with the management and DoT.

Increase in medical reimbursement from the current 15 days’ salary to at least 25 days’ salary for outdoor treatment:

Hon’ble MoC assured to discuss the issue with BSNL Management for a positive consideration.

Extending the facilities for person with disabilities (PwBDs) which is defined under RPwD act 2016 and implementation of recent Hon’ble Supreme Court Directions wrt promotions for PwBD candidates from 30.06.2016:

We requested for directing BSNL and DoT to issue directions for the strict following of the recent DoP&T orders wrt promotions. We also informed that the directions wrt other facilities available to PwBD has also not been implemented by BSNL in totality.

Hon’ble MoC assured to look into the matter.

Issue of Presidential orders to the employees whose recruitment process was initiated during DoT period but appointment was given after 01.10.2000:

We once again raised the matter before Hon’ble MoC and requested for his intervention on the matter.

Hon’ble MoC sought some more details in this regard which will be submitted by us in due course.

Dear friends,

The discussion with Hon’ble MOC was very detailed, exhaustive and touched all the burning HR issues of BSNL employees. We are extremely thankful to the BMS Central Leadership who are remaining in constant touch with Hon’ble MoC directly and are personally involved in the discussion over the issues of BSNL. The issues as on date are appearing to be on a distant note but we firmly assure you that a lot of distance has been covered and the outcome shall be visible soon.

We don’t believe in creating propaganda but believe in working continuously with perseverance. The Team of AIGETOA, BTEU under the patronage of BMS is totally determined to resolve the issues and we seek your unparalleled support.