Invitation to Tripartite Meeting from DoT – “A Meeting of DoT, BSNL & Association side AIGETOA & BTEU on 16th Feb 2024 for addressing the HR concerns in BSNL” :

Invitation to Tripartite Meeting from DoT – “A Meeting of DoT, BSNL & Association side AIGETOA & BTEU on 16th Feb 2024 for addressing the HR concerns in BSNL” :

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

Flash News: Convening of CPCs for promotions from PA to PS Grade

In the agenda meeting held on 9th February 2024 between AIGETOA and management, one of the issues raised was convening of pending CPCs in PA/PS/PPS cadre. Today management issues reminder circles for completing the process and furnishing the CPC report to BSNL CO for further necessary action.

Friends, slowly and steadily, progress is visible and AIGETOA remains duty bound to fulfill the commitments made at the time of MV. One by one, progress on all issues as per the discussions held in agenda meeting and the commitments made shall be visible to all.

We seek your support in ensuring the resolution of all the issues pertaining to executives.

Click here for the letter

The details of discussions, deliberations and decisions taken in agenda meeting held on 9th Feb 2024 between BSNL Management and AIGETOA.

An agenda-based meeting was held between Team AIGETOA consisting of CHQ/Circle office bearers with management on 9th February 2024. The meeting started at 10.30 AM and continued till 4 PM. A very informative, productive and positive discussions took place which resulted into some very important and crucial decisions taken in favour of executives and assurances given by management on other issues of importance. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Director (HR) Dr N Kalyan Sagar Ji, PGM (Pers) Shri Adhir Kumar Singhal Ji, PGM (SR) Smt Anita Johri Ji, PGM (Admin) Shri Sanjeev Tyagi Ji, PGM (Establishment) Shri S P Singh Ji, PGM(EF) Shri Puran Chandra Bhatt Ji, PGM(NWP-GSM) Shri D. K. Agrawal Ji, Sr GM(CIT) Shri Rajeev Sharma Ji, GM (Rectt) Smt Samita Luthra Ji and other senior officers from SR, HR, Pers, IT & ERP wing. Association side was represented by All India President Shri Veerabhadra Rao, GS Shri Ravi Shil Verma and other CHQ/Circle office bearers.

Click here for Details of the Agenda Meeting

The details of discussions, deliberations and decisions taken in the meeting is as stated below:

[I] Pay, Pension, Perks & Allowances Related Issues

  1. Revision in TA/DA Transport, Child Education and other allowances at par with current market conditions, restoration of LTC. Provisioning of Laptops to the executives on PAN India basis and to increase the limit of such reimbursement to a minimum of Rs 50,000/-. Increase in Mobile Set Reimbursement at par with market cost.

Association and management entered into detailed deliberations in this regard. The issue was discussed in the backdrop of recently served notice for organisational action by AIGETOA for provisioning of proper resources and revision in TA/DA/Allowances etc.

  • Demand for the revision of TA/DA, Transport, in line with current market conditions-Need for revision in TA/DA, Transport allowance agreed by Management. Establishment/PAT cell shall examine the whole scenario and will prepare a comprehensive proposal in this regard.
  • Child Education and Restoration of LTC benefitsNot agreed in view of the current financial scenario of BSNL. Association requested for reconsideration of the same.
  • Proposal for provisioning of laptops to executives on PAN India basis with a uniform reimbursement limit of Rs 50,000 – 60,000 across all gradesManagement agreed to implement it on PAN India basis. Instructions shall be issued by Corporate-IT cell of BSNL CO to all CGMs on the methodology and the implementation plan. On the issue of increasing the Limits, management agreed to examine based on the average purchase value/cost of Laptops at BSNL CO, on which association suggested to explore the same on analysing the needed configuration instead of average purchase value. Issue of Laptop retention on transfer to be examined and approved, on case-to-case basis. Cost of Laptop Insurance to be allowed along with Laptop cost/amount was also discussed. Management agreed to examine this as well.
  • Request for increase in Mobile Set Reimbursement to align with current market rates: Agreed by Management. The Mobile Set Reimbursement to be reviewed and increased to enable the executives to buy at least android-based smartphones to cater to the needs of the organisation. Admin Cell of BSNL CO shall initiate the proposal and shall take necessary action to increase the reimbursement limit. Association requested for making the attendance marking through App as optional till the limit is increased. The same was agreed to be examined and considered by management.
  1. Intervention at the highest level to ensure that approval for E2 pay-scales for JTO/JAO/Equivalent and E3 pay-scales for SDE/AO/Equivalent cadres is received.

Management clarified that the issue lies with DoT and DoT has denied the same. The same has been informed by DoT after the meeting of Dy CLC with one of the associations. However, AIGETOA side explained about their recent deliberations with Hon’ble MoC on the matter and his assurance for resolving the same and requested for sending the proposal once again countering the DoT response as their denial is based upon non-existent grounds. Team AIGETOA presented the documentary evidences obtained through RTI in counter to the averments made by DoT in their denial to one particular association. Association side also emphasized on the need for intervention at highest level instead of dealing the issue in routine manner. AIGETOA also highlighted the need for making SG-JAG Level scale uniform as E7 which is the way to extend and replace initial two scales without cascading and keeping the five time bound upgradations intact.

AIGETOA also explained that Standard Pay Scales, 22820, JE Period Pay loss, Pay loss of JEs recruited as JTO from outside quota are residual issues of 2nd PRC and the current financial position of BSNL should not be presented as an excuse for denying these issues. AIGETOA categorically told that one group can not be forced to bear the burden of financial losses of BSNL. If the loss is there, the same should be borne by all instead of making new recruits and promoted executives a subject to pay loss.

Management side said that they firmly stand with executives on this issue but they expressed their helplessness citing that the issue is to be decided by DoT. Management side asked for association inputs once again along with all details including the submission with respect to AIGETOA’s recent discussions at DoT and with Hon’ble MoC and stated that they will forward them to DoT with positive recommendations. Director (HR) assured that he will personally intervene and take up the matter with Higher Ups at DoT. Association side also assured for the persuasion at highest level with the support of BMS in this regard for taking up the issues with Hon’ble MoC and if needed with PMO also.

  1. Start of discussions of association with Pay Loss Committee to extend 22820 as initial basic to the executives recruited in pre-revised E1A scales post 01.01.2007:

Establishment Section initiated the discussions and presented the management’s view with respect to the cutoff date for 2nd PRC. Association side explained that the cutoff date of 01.01.2007 for 2nd PRC for already working employees before implementation of the pay revision is not sacrosanct and same can be relaxed. In fact, BSNL itself as relaxed the cut-off date for pay revision 4 times, then why the same cannot be relaxed for the executives recruited/promoted in pre-revised E1A scales. Association side presented the documentary evidences and supporting arguments and pressed hard for resolving the same.

Decisions:

  • Management agreed to update the constitution of the committee as new members have joined on the posts of PGM (Pers) and PGM (Establishment).
  • Commitment to start deliberations with the association to address the concerns effectively and with a holistic consideration.
  • The Reply in the court case shall also be expedited.

JE Period Pay Loss:

  • A committee shall examine the issue in light of the submissions made by AIGETOA.
  • The reply in the court cases by BSNL shall be expedited.
  1. Extending E1 plus 5 increments to all the JAOs and JTOs recruited in provisional E1 scales post implementation of 2nd PRC recommendations of BSNL. (Establishment Section).

The management side mentioned that the approved E2 proposal by the Board would automatically resolve the matter. However, association emphasized that E1 plus 5 is an interim relief and the same must be implemented. Association also highlighted about the pendency of the matter before BSNL Board and need for extending the same to executives of all batches recruited/promoted in E1 Scale. Management side assured to look into the same.

  1. Implementation of 3rd PRC in BSNL and intervention at highest level for relaxation of affordability clause in view of the BSNL’s involvement in development of Home Grown 4G/5G Technology and fulfilling the Telecom Objectives including the social and national duties as the national telecom carrier of India.
  • The management highlighted that the BSNL Board has already approved the 3rd PRC with 15% recommendations and DoT has to consider the same.
  • Association side affirmed with the need for pursuing the same at the highest level and assured that while AIGETOA and BMS will take all efforts to escalate the issue at the highest level, at the same time, management should also aggressively follow the same with DoT.
  1. Increase in Quantum of SAB to make it 30% and creation of PRMB fund. Implementation of Death Relief Scheme for BSNL employees as assured to this association in July 2022 and extension of Group Term Insurance by employer.

Association side explained the issue and also raised the objection on the unnecessary comparison between defined contribution and defined benefit by management. Association emphasised that if management want to compare, then the comparison should be from the date of formation of BSNL and not from the current date. Further instead of comparison, management should either ensure the at par defined benefits for BSNL recruits and those covered under CCS rules, else management should ensure that DPE guidelines with respect to BSNL Recruits must be followed in totality. We also requested for the PRMB fund creation for BSNL Recruits. We said last regime agreed for processing the case for increase in SAB and the same must be done now.

Director HR assured to explore the possibility of increase in SAB contribution and creation of PRMB funds and directed PGM establishment to examine the proposal.

  1. Implementation of Death Relief Scheme (DRF)/ GTI by employer:

A pressing concern was the urgent implementation of the Death Relief Scheme (DRF), as promised by the CMD in earlier meetings latest by July 2022. The need for DRF was underscored, particularly given the significant loss of BSNL-recruited employees during the pandemic, with their families currently receiving meagre amount as family pension. As alternate, management side was urged to consider and take action on implementing Group Term Insurance with employer contributing the premium.

The DIR HR directed establishment and admin cell to reinitiate the earlier process with respect to the creation of Death Relief Fund for BSNL Executives expeditiously with active inputs from association in this regard.  

  1. Implementation of Group Health Insurance (GHI) by BSNL, the employer should pay the premium instead of forcing the employees to pay.

AIGETOA strongly advocated for the implementation of Group Health Insurance (GHI) by BSNL, emphasizing that the employer should bear the premium instead of burdening the employees. Management side appreciated the concerns but at the same time emphasised that the BSNLMRS is the preferred choice of majority of employees and hence efforts should be on ensuring the cashless indoor treatment. AIGETOA emphasised that despite categorical directions by BSNL CO for empanelment of hospitals on cashless basis in each Circle/BA, much progress has not been observed at Circles/BA level. AIGETOA suggested that empanelment of hospitals should be entered as the KPI for assigning the targets in IPMS so that circles and BAs completes the job of cashless empanelment of hospitals in targeted time. Management side agreed to consider making the empanelment of the hospitals on cashless basis as a KPI in the IPMS for assigning the targets and the same may be incorporated from next quarter. The formal assignment of targets in this regard will help in attaining the target of empanelment of hospitals on cashless basis.

  1. Enhancement/restoration of outdoor limit of medical reimbursement and also fixing of medical outdoor limit DA rates of current year instead of 2020.
  • Enhancement/Restoration of Outdoor Limit: Request for enhancing/restoring the outdoor limit of medical reimbursement. Proposal to fix the medical outdoor limit with reference to the DA rate of current year instead of 2020. Management agreed to explore the same with a positive consideration.
  • Restoration of Old Policy: Request to restore the old policy for outdoor medical bills limit and revise it. Emphasis on aligning with the previous policy for enhanced financial entitlements. Management was non-committal and requested to wait for some more time to explore what best can be done.
  1. The case of the CCS pension for the BSNL recruited TTAs whose recruitment was initiated by DoT during pre-BSNL era may be taken up by BSNL with DoT in line with the Gazette Notification issued by GoI.

AIGETOA raised the issue of Central Civil Services (CCS) pension for BSNL recruited Telecom Technical Assistants (TTAs) whose recruitment was initiated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) during the pre-BSNL era. AIGETOA urged BSNL to take up the matter with DoT, aligning with the Gazette Notification issued by the Government of India.

Management agreed to send the fresh inputs to DOT for consideration and asked AIGETOA to submit their inputs in this regard so that the same may be incorporated. AIGETOA assured to submit the inputs in a time bound manner.

  1. Clearance of HR proposals pending in Board for along time:

We highlighted that many proposals including that of E1 plus Five Increments, Notional Pay Fixation of E1 A scales for Civil/Electrical and other cadres are pending before board for a long period of time. We expressed that these were placed before board after long discussions and deliberations with associations and hence management must take all necessary steps to ensure the clearance of these proposals from BSNL Board.

Management side agreed to get the same examined.

[II] Promotion and Restructuring Related Issues

  1. AGM Promotions for all Eligible SDEs:

AIGETOA pressed for the consideration of all SDEs up to list 13 for SDE to AGM promotions in Telecom Cadre. The team explained the historical perspective, the incidences of the past, lapses made by HR wing while pursuing the SK Dubey Vs BSNL at Hon’ble Supreme Court. AIGETOA emphasised upon the issue of BSNL’s submission through affidavit in Hon’ble PCAT for protecting the vacancy year-based seniority. AIGETOA team also highlighted the various injustices made to the competitive qualified SDEs by BSNL and requested that its high time that BSNL must extend justice to these deprived candidates. We said that we are not against anybody’s promotions but at the same time we also firmly asserted that we will not accept the injustice either. Hence management must consider extending the promotions to all eligible SDEs without any further delay.   

AIGETOA once again presented their proposed methodology and insisted that forgetting about every technicality as arguments and counter arguments can be many, BSNL must act to ensure justice.

Director HR and PGM Pers appreciated the concerns raised by AIGETOA and assured that Pers Team is working in this direction. Discussions have been held and every effort shall be taken to maximise the promotions. They categorically assured that they are not averse to the AIGETOA’s proposal and the HR team is working expeditiously on the inputs given by association with a positive mindset.  

  1. AGM to DGM (Telecom) Promotions:

AIGETOA side presented the current status of the issue both from the administrative angle as well as legal perspective. Association highlighted that they fail to understand the reason behind this delay when clarity has been obtained through legal opinion that AGM promotions made in year 2018 can be regularised and Seniority List can be issued now. We also expressed that we do understand that regular promotions to DGM cadre requires clearance from Hon’ble Court but nothing stops BSNL from executing these promotions on Ad-hoc basis. By doing this, BSNL will not be only filling the DGM Posts but also will make around 1150 vacancies available for SDE to AGM and further down to JTO to SDE promotions. Just by one simple step, so many promotions can be done. Association side presented the necessary documents to press their points

Management side agreed with the view point of association. It was agreed that Seniority Lists for AGM Promotions held in 2018 shall be issued and actions shall be initiated for executing ad-hoc promotions at least which can be regularised after clearance from Hon’ble Court of Law. It was assured that expeditious actions shall be initiated after discussing the matter in totality with Hon’ble CMD BSNL. The meeting with CMD BSNL on the issue is expected to be done in a week’s time.  

  1. Issuance of promotions across various cadres including AO to CAO, JTOs to SDE, promotions under PWD Quota, JAO to AO, JAO to AO(LICE), DGM (Adhoc) to DGM Regular, AGM (T) to DGM (T), and AGM (CSS) to DGM (CSS). Issuance of Seniority List in AGM (T) Grade.

a) Issuance of AO to CAO Promotions:

Association requested for mentioning the case at Hon’ble CAT Chandigarh for pronouncement of Judgment which was agreed upon by Management.

b) Issuance of JAO to AO Promotions:

Promotions from JAO to AO to fill vacancies created by AO to CAO promotions was agreed upon.

c) JAO to AO LICE :  

We raised the concern that why JAO to AO LICE for available vacancy as on 01.01.2023, has not been notified with other streams exams to be conducted in the month of  March-2024. It has to be notified even if vacancy for one post is available. Management side intimated that it could not be notified due to non-receipt of vacancies data from SEA branch. We will arrange the available vacancies data and notify the examination program for the same at the earliest possible.

d) Issuance of promotions from DGM (Adhoc) to DGM Regular (T):

Association requested for engaging a senior Supreme Court advocate for pursuing the court case which was agreed to be considered by the Management.

e) Issuance of Promotions for the PWD candidates:

We requested for issuance of promotions of the eligible SDEs whose DPCs has been completed by management in 2022. Management expressed its inability citing the pending case at Hon’ble PCAT. Association expressed that with pronunciation of Hon’ble Supreme Court judgment, there is no issue with issuance of promotion orders and it will be highly unjustified to leave the eligible PWDs out of the purview of the promotions.  

Finally, management agreed and informed that a decision shall be taken based on the outcome of the case which is slated for hearing in next week, i.e. on 14 Feb 2024. It was once again firmly pressed for issuance of promotion orders of the eligible PWD candidates on which management expressed its positive intent.

f) Issuance of promotions in AGM to DGM (CSS) cadre, Issue of roster calculation in CSS cadre, Convening of CPCs in PS to PPS and PA to PS cadres, Promotions in Civil, Electrical wings:                      

Management side informed that Pers Team will ensure all possible steps to expedite the process and few promotions can be expected in a week’s time. On the roster issue in CSS cadre, management informed that there is no such discrepancy and it was agreed to have detailed discussion on the issue with Pers Legal team and inform the outcome to Director (HR) for further discussion.

g) Start of Training of JE batch for vacancy Year 2015-16:

It was submitted that notification and exams of JTO LICE for the vacancy year 2015-16 was conducted PAN India by corporate office. BSNL Punjab circle notified 25 seats for VY 2015-16 vide letter no HRD/EX-35/JTO(T)/50%/15-16/PB-2016/07 dated 15/09/2016.

Result of all these exams declared on time and successful candidates become JTO after completion of training in all the telecom Circles except Punjab due to some Court cases on VY 2014-15. Now all the Court cases causing hurdles in declaration of result in Punjab circle has been disposed off and Punjab circle has already deputed candidates of VY 2014-15 on training.

Result of VY 2015-16 has also been declared by corporate office vide letter no 12-4/2016-Rectt dated 03/04/2017 but Punjab circle has not endorsed the result as training process of VY 14-15 was pending due to court cases. Now all court cases causing hurdle are disposed of and training of VY 2014-15 has already started.

Association side requested management to look into the matter and start the training of next batch 2015-16 as result is already declared by corporate office as soon as possible.

JEs of Punjab are already very junior to all of their batch mates of 2008, 2009. It was assured to look into the same.

  1. Resolution of the long pending SDE reversal issue of LDCE 2007 executives in line with the commitments made earlier by management in various meetings and at various platforms.

Association side apprised the HR team about the historical perspective of the case, assurances made in the past and the positive outcome at Hon’ble CAT Chennai. It was informed that based on the earlier discussions and assurances, now that Hon’ble Court has given a positive verdict in favour of the suffering executives, any deviation from earlier stand taken by management will result into a huge negativity and association remains dutybound to take all necessary actions to protect the interest of its members. We further emphasized that management is also equally dutybound ensure the sanctity of the commitments made at the highest level.

Director HR assured that issue will be given a positive consideration and let the written orders be received by BSNL and action as per commitment given shall be taken thereafter.   

  1. Discussion on Restructuring and increase in number of posts in various grades of various streams (Telecom, Finance, Civil, Electrical, Architecture, CCS, PA/PS/PPS) in view of the BBNL merger to BSNL and Projects like 4G saturation, pilot project for connecting 5 lakh villages etc.

The current status of the restructuring review was discussed and deliberated in detail. It was highlighted by management side that if the current norms are taken into consideration, situation doesn’t seem bright especially in view of the closing of the copper-based connections and decreasing of landline assets. Association side pressed for exploring and revisiting the operational and positional norms as the current norms are neither sufficient to cater to the operational and managerial needs of the company nor they are doing any good to the career aspirations of the executives. We also requested for consideration of the new projects like 4G saturation and Bharatnet while reviewing the cadre strength.

PGM (Restg) acknowledged the need for revisiting the norms and assured that management remains open to all the noteworthy suggestions by association. She further told that AIGETOA may give their suggestions with respect to the positional and operational norms and also the inputs with respect to the review of the strength. She assured for a holistic consideration of the inputs.

  1. Convening of CPCs for PS to PPS in field units who are waiting for long despite availability of vacancies. Creation of a greater number of PS and PPS posts in Field Units as well as BSNL CO for extending smooth career progression to the executives belonging to these cadres. Creation of sufficient number of AGM (OL) Posts for extending smooth career progression to the executives belonging to these cadres. (Personnel Section)

We expressed the long wait faced by Private Secretaries (PS) for their promotions to Personal Private Secretaries (PPS), despite available vacancies. The imperative need to convene Centralized Promotion Committees (CPCs) promptly was stressed to address the prolonged wait and provide timely career advancement. We also requested for the creation of an increased number of PS and PPS posts in both field units and BSNL CO. Additionally, we also highlighted the importance of creating an ample number of Assistant General Manager (Official Language) [AGM (OL)] posts.

Management side agreed to explore the possibilities.

[III] Other Major Issues

  1. Discussions and Suggestions with respect to OTP and Longest Stay Policy.

Association has given the following suggestions with regard to OTP Process and discussed on automating the OTP policy and potential changes in the system :-

a] Consideration of Transfers on need basis instead of routine long stay transfer: The request was politely turned down with an assurance to revisit the same in future.

b] Separate OTP windows for Inter and Intra Circle which should be kept independent of each other: Proposal for fixed OTP windows which should be independent, separate for Inter and Intra Circle to eliminating the six-month waiting clause. Management side agreed to consider the same.

c] One time modification of the options given in OTP portal: Association requested to allow the executives to exercise their options and to allow the modification of the options at a later period of time:

Management side agreed for One time modification in the OTP during the OTP window of 15 days and also instructed the ERP team to develop this option in ESS.

d] Association’s Suggestions to implement the OTP for JTO/JAO transfers from Non-Territorial circle/Units to Territorial circle: As of now, it is not implemented in OTP(ESS) system and assurance was given that the association’s suggestions on the OTP process will be considered. Until implementation, they can apply through hard copy of Application. A clarification shall be issued by Pers Section to the circles in this regard whereby Hard Copy applications for such requests shall be asked to be considered.

e] Separate OTP window for Long Stay Transfer List: Executives on long stay transfer list to have a brief window to apply afresh OTP. Special consideration for deficit circles was requested which was agreed to be explored.

f] Provision for Station Selection: System possibility will be checked to extend a provision for executives to select station/territory while applying for Non-Territorial and Specialized Circle postings.

g] OTP Waiting List & seniority to be maintained for the Executives: It was agreed by management to ensure that the OTP seniority of the executives whose OTP requests have been cancelled due to any reason will be maintained, if such executives are willing to be considered themselves in next OTP window.

h] Tenure OTPs and Priority Accommodation and also relieving the executives. Urgency to clear all pending tenure OTPs applied so far: Consideration of accommodating OTP transfers as per priority options during the one-time execution of long-standing transfers. The ERP relieving for the executives from the Tenure stations should be ensured if circles do not relieve them in time.

i] KTK OTP Relieving/Cancellation Cases: Specific discussion on Karnataka OTP relieving/cancellation cases.

j] Clearing All Circles’ OTP Cases: Emphasis on clearing all the applied OTP cases across circles.

k] Display of the executives circle wise for Long Stay transfers before issuing the orders: Suggestion to display of the executives circle wise for Long Stay transfers before issuing the orders for executives with stays surpassing 22/23/24 years.

AIGETOA has requested management for the review of longest stay policy and management assured to examine the same.

l] Exemption of the Single parent from the long stay transfers: Explained the cases and their difficulties. Management agreed to exempt the Single parent from the long stay transfers and assured to explore the possibilities.

m] Immunity/Relaxation to the WOMEN Executives in the long stay transfers: Team AIGETOA highlighted the challenges that women employees in BSNL face in managing both their household responsibilities and their work commitments simultaneously, which includes time constraints, emotional strain, financial pressures, and societal expectations. We request management that these unique challenges require a need for understanding, support, and possibly policy interventions to address them effectively. Management side appreciated, acknowledges and values the concerns raised by AIGETOA that have been brought to their attention. Management side responded positively and assured to explore the possibilities of relaxation which can be extended to the WOMEN Executives in the long stay transfers.

n] Care giver to be included in the list to get the immunity from the transfers: Association side explained the Care giver cases and their difficulties in entering the same in ERP owing to non-availability of entry of care giver in case the parents do not fall in dependent lists. Management agreed and directed ERP team to explore the possibilities and probable case scenarios.

o] Critical diseases to be included in the specified list in the ERP to get the immunity from the transfers: Association explained there are many diseases which are not there in the list of critical diseases but are equally critical and some are in fact life threatening as well. Hence, management must make provisions to develop a procedure where such cases can be incorporated in the system for extending medical immunity to such employees.

Management side agreed to explore the possibilities and directed Pers and ERP team to work upon the same.  

p] Review in the Tenure and Soft Tenure Stations: We highlighted that many stations have been left to be incorporated in the list. We also requested for inclusion of the Headquarters as soft tenure stations, failing which this policy is bound to fail. Management agreed to review the same and asked for requisite input from association.

q] Facility of retention of quarters on transfer where the transfer from one station to other doesn’t results in break of station tenure: Association requested for extending the facility of quarter retention on transfer where there is no break in station tenure for example stations spread across NCR Regions. Directed HR assured to get the same to be examined. Dir(HR) assured to direct BW cell for examining the same.

  1. Consideration and streamlining of the Rule 8 cases especially for those posted in Hard Tenure Circles and unequal treatment given to the recently promoted JTOs who have been promoted against the posts of external quota.

Association discussed the issue of consideration and streamlining of Rule 8 cases, particularly for those posted in Hard Tenure Circles. The association emphasized that Rule 8 cases must be considered especially for officers working in hard tenure places. Management give positive assurance to consider the association’s perspective and take all necessary steps to clear the Rule 8 cases on expeditious basis.

Association also highlighted another very important issue involving the recently promoted JTOs who have been promoted against the post of external quota. AIGETOA team highlighted that these candidates have been promoted by diverting the posts from external quota to internal quota and they must be treated at par with earlier promoted internal candidates and must be extended similar facilities. We also stressed upon consideration of their Rule 8 requests by counting their service in the JE Period and make them eligible for Rule 8 transfers after a period of two years.  

Management understood and appreciated our concern and assured to examine with a positive consideration. Input was sought from AIGETOA for examining the case. Association shall be submitting the same in due course.

  1. Issues related to attendance management system and streamlining thereof.

i) Attendance Management System Issues: Discussions were held on streamlining the attendance management system, especially addressing concerns of field units.

ii) Attendance Portal Window Timing: Association suggested to open the attendance portal window from 9 am to 9 pm instead of current time line of extending relaxation of one-hour i.e. 30 mins before and 30 mins after official timings. We said, if we enable this window, the executive will have the flexibility of completing their scheduled work time of 7.30/8 hours within the 9 to 9 window. This will also lessen the leaves taken by the employees as they will have a flexibility in the attendance timings. Management liked the idea and assured to explore the same especially in view of the difficulties faced by the field units.   

iii) Optional Use of App based Attendance System: AIGETOA requested the management to make App based Attendance System as “optional” for the employees till the mobile reimbursement limit is reviewed. The same was responded positively by management.

  1. Discussion on rotation of officers from the sensitive posts as per the CVC guidelines (Personnel/Establishment Section)

After having detailed discussions, the management has agreed to implement the rotation of officers from sensitive posts in accordance with Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) guidelines. This decision underscores a commitment to transparency and accountability. The Association raised concerns about potential misuse of sensitive post orders by rotating executives within the same section, defeating the purpose of the policy. The proposal advocates for a change in section & not just the chair, to prevent any undue advantage for executives posted for an extended period in sensitive roles, ensuring a more effective and unbiased rotation policy.

The same was appreciated by management and it was assured to issue necessary directions in this regard.

  1. Discussion on Implementation of 4G services and the complete Roll out of 4G services. Roadmap to the 5G Rollout thereafter:

The issue of 4G implementation and roll-out of 4G services on PAN India basis was discussed at length. Association side raised its apprehensions regarding the delay in equipment supply, Issues of Core, High Port-out of BSNL sub’s in Pilot BA/SSA/OA’s where 4G is being roll out & testing in progress, IMS issue for certain regions and different integration issues in the 4G roll out all over India. Management side explained the details about the 4G project in totality. They said the issues during roll out time, implementation phase are bound to come. 4G indigenous project of BSNL is the prestigious project of DoT, MoC and Govt of India. Huge grant has been given by Govt for this project and it will create a distinguished image of BSNL. RAN issues are being taken care and stabilising of core equipment is under process. We are setting target for 4G roll out by 31st Dec 2024. Manpower and team issue for implementation at Field is being handled and slowly-slowly things are settling down. TCS is doing SI Part. TCS has also deployed M/s Mckinsey to monitor the project. Different vendors have been empanelled by TCS so that work due to negligence of one vendor doesn’t stop. Core has been stabilised at Chandigarh and Ambala.  Secretary DoT is taking daily basis meetings with CMD, TCS, Vendors and other concerned sections and briefing to the highest level on daily basis.

After 4G roll out there will be around 25000 Govt funded sites also which will be additional revenue source to BSNL.

Association side highlighted the issues faced by the executives in the installation and commissioning of the sites and raised apprehension about the competency of the team being deputed for the installation and commissioning as at many places it has been observed that team deputed by the vendor for the purpose even do not have the basic idea which will definitely hamper the progress and smooth rollout. Management side affirmed that all such issues are being taken care of and no such issues will be faced anymore as the consultant appointed by the SI is taking care of such issues. We also informed that slowly the executives are losing hope and its high time that progress on ground wrt development and rollout of 4G needs to be made visible in practice

On the query with respect to the readiness of 5G, it was informed that the system is made 5G ready and shall not take much time in changeover from 4G to 5G.

  1. Issues arising out of takeover of ALTTC Campus by DoT and next course of action with regard to the training requirements of BSNL especially North zone. Discussion with respect to the Syllabus for LICE across various cadres.

It was informed by management that The ALTTC Ghaziabad training centre is undergoing construction to become a world-class facility. While the buildings are under construction, training will continue at the ERP Building. Additionally, RTTC Jaipur in Rajasthan is identified as a second location, set to be developed into a modern training center to provide top-notch telecom training. The focus is on ensuring continued high-quality training for BSNL employees during this transition period.

Association highlighted the issues which arose from the takeover of ALTTC Campus by DoT, prompting discussions on the next steps for BSNL’s training requirements, especially in the North Zone. We highlighted the imperative need for keeping the training facility open at ALTTC Ghaziabad to encash upon the brand value which ALTTC has earned over a period of time. Further AIGETOA also highlighted the needs for utilising the zonal/regional training centres also. We said that it was really sad to witness that the vast infrastructure available at these facilities are being wasted. We requested for an immediate consideration of re-establishing the zonal training centres and turning them into profit centres with suitable tie ups with reputed Universities and Institutions. AIGETOA team pressed upon the need for keeping the training activities continued at Ghaziabad and suggested the possible way out of utilising the ERP building as a permanent facility.

Management assured that one small facility at ALTTC campus at Ghaziabad and a top notch international advanced level facility at Jaipur shall be established.  Further Director HR assured to examine the proposal mooted by AIGETOA for re-establishing the discontinued zonal and regional training centres with suitable tie ups and convert them into profit centres.

  1. Time to time Training requirement of BSNL Executives.

Team AIGETOA emphasised on imparting training to the executives on various modules/units of BSNL, New technologies being adopted by BSNL. It was informed by GM(Rectt) that currently 20 Job roles have been identified by the training cell which requires insights and awareness. Training videos, information brochure with PPT and lectures are being prepared and the same will be made available on “igotkarmayogi” portal for the benefits of all. Further any training requirements of executives are also being looked into.

  1. Discussion on further refinement and betterment in the IPMS system and assigning of Targets on yearly basis along with provision of remarks/feedback for entering the reasons for shortfall in achieving the targets.

Management Side appreciated our concerns and stated that IPMS is not intended towards harming the career aspects and management is open to all suggestions and improvement in the system. At present IPMS are more towards Numerical driven and not towards task driven.  Following were points of discussion in respect to the association’s suggestions and apprehensions: –

i) Annual IPMS and Group Targets:  Association requests IPMS to be annual instead of quarterly.  Proposal for financial targets to be assigned for the group, not individual targets for better achievability. Management agreed to examine the same.

ii) Review Facility for Targets: Request for a review facility to analyze reasons for not achieving targets. Emphasis should be on the importance of group targets as opposed to individual targets. PGM Restg informed that the facility of review is available in ESS now and it needs proper awareness and popularisation amongst the executives. In case of any executive not able to achieve his/her targets due to any issue, he can put forth the same in ESS while filing IPMS and the same will be considered. We put forward the genuine grievances and practical difficulties faced by the executives in field, how the Group targets are given to Individuals, How the executives in fields are not able to achieve their targets due to lack of resources and reasons/factors beyond their control.  We requested for issuance of suitable directions to circles by highlighting the same. Management also assured for consideration of all genuine feedback given from time to time.

  1. Status of Verification and Forwarding of the options exercised by executives for the higher pension to the EPFO. Appointment of a nodal officer as custodian of the EPF Records at various BAs as many records were found missing while scrutinizing the requests.

The Process is on and BSNL CO is actively monitoring the same.

  1. Removal of freeze on deputation to outside organizations:

It was assured by Hon’ble Director HR to explore the same after discussion with CMD BSNL.

Remarkable achievement by Smt Binsi Mohan of Kerala Circle in the national sports arena:

JTO BBM, Kandassankadavu, Thrissur, BA Smt Binsi Mohan who is an active Member and office bearer of AIGETOA family, clinched a remarkable 4 gold medals at the national masters athletics meet in Goa. Dominating the 200m and 400m races, along with exceptional performances in the 1004 and 4004 relays (35+ age category), she represented Kerala state .

As we revel in her success, Binsi Mohan is gearing up to carry the Indian flag 🇮🇳 at the international Masters Athletics Meet in TAIPEI 2025.

AIGETOA congratulates Smt Binsi Mohan on achieving this remarkable feat. We are proud of her and wish our good luck to her for achieving more and more such accomplishments in future.

Click here for the Photographs

Update on GTI (Group Term Insurance) Negotiations :

For last three days, back to back meetings have been held for negotiations on GTI. The meeting was attended by AIGETOA all India President Shri Veerabhadra Rao and Finance Secretary Shri Badri Kumar Mehta.

While LIC team once again presented a very high initial quote of Rs 3 per Thousand of GTI, team AIGETOA has categorically clarified that any rates above the initial 2019 rates of Rs 1.6 per thousand are not acceptable as the claim ratio has gone down substantially. The team AIGETOA insisted to revise the quote and has negotiated firmly on the matter. The LIC team will revert with their fresh quotes in a day or two.

We extend our thanks to all India President Shri Veerabhadra Rao and Finance Secretary Shri Badri Kumar Mehta for firmly negotiating with LIC team.

Let’s hope for the best. But one thing is very sure that in the absence of proper rates quoted by LIC, the team AIGETOA is not going to accept will insist upon further negotiations

Reservation in Promotion for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBDs) – Compliance with DOP&T Letter :

The BSNL SCT Cell has explicitly endorsed to all the Circle Heads of BSNL the DOP&T letter (DOP&T O.M.No.36012/1/2020-Estt.(Res-II) dt. 28.12.2023), emphasizing the strict compliance and prompt action in line with the directives laid out by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) vide its letter No. DPE-GM/43/2014-GM(FTS-1899) dated 23.01.2024. It is imperative that BSNL adhere to these guidelines to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all employees, including those with benchmark disabilities.

Click here for the Letter

Calling Off the Lunch Hour Demonstration on the appeal of BSNL Management :

Dear Members,

We are pleased to inform you that following a series of productive discussions and meetings, the recent organizational action notice issued by AIGETOA CHQ has been withdrawn. We would like to extend our gratitude to all members for their patience, cooperation, and support throughout this process.

A brief overview of the developments leading to the withdrawal of the action notice is as follows:

Re-conciliatory Meeting with Management:

A meeting chaired by the Director HR, with the presence of PGM (Pers) and PGM (SR), was held on 2nd February 2024. Management acknowledged the concerns raised by AIGETOA and assured prompt and appropriate action on the demands raised, particularly demand number 1.

Assurance on Provisioning of adequate resources and Revision of various Allowances:

Management committed to revisiting the issues related to resource allocation, revision of TA/DA, accommodation, mobile reimbursement limit, Pan India Laptop Policy and other allowances. These matters were slated for detailed discussion in the agenda meeting scheduled for 9th February 2024.

Thereafter an appeal was issued by management for withdrawal of the organisational action program. However, we expressed our unwillingness on the withdrawal in the absence of firm actions from management especially on the issue number 1.

Click here for the Appeal by Management

Meeting with UP (West) Circle Management: Following the issuance of an appeal by management, another meeting was held on 02.02.2024 wherein it was informed that UP West Circle has been directed to investigate and act urgently on the matter. The UP (West) circle management thereafter convened a meeting with AIGETOA at Ghaziabad which was attended by the BA head of Ghaziabad, Representatives of UP West administration, Representatives of Ghaziabad BA admin and District/ Circle office bearers of AIGETOA and CHQ nominees from AIGETOA.

Click here for the Meeting Notice

In the bilateral discussion, the issue was discussed in detail and was resolved to the satisfaction of both the sides.

Follow-up Meeting with BSNL Corporate Office:

Subsequent to the bilateral meeting held at Ghaziabad BA, the report of the UP West Circle was forwarded to BSNL CO along with the minutes. Thereafter the CHQ officers of AIGETOA along with GS had another meeting with Director (HR), PGM (Pers), BSNL CO and PGM (SR), BSNL CO on dated 05.02.2024. The updates of the action taken by UP (West) circle administration and also the issue of lack of resources were discussed and the assurances given on 2nd February 2024 were reaffirmed.

Click here for the Minutes of the Meeting

Withdrawal of Organizational Action Notice:

In light of the positive developments and reaffirmed commitments from management, AIGETOA CHQ has decided to withdraw the organizational action notice. We remain hopeful for further positive outcomes, including the consideration of the revision of TA/DA/Allowances in the upcoming agenda meeting on 9th February 2024.

Click here for the AIGETOA Letter with respect to the withdrawal of lunch hour demonstration

Friends, it’s the matter of fact and record that AIGETOA is never hesitant in raising the issues of genuine concern and we once again re-affirm that whenever the need arises, we will be there standing firmly with the executives on the genuine issues. However, at the same time we believe that the approach should be pragmatic and result oriented and give all possible chances to amicable resolution with pointed discussions across the table.

We sincerely appreciate the efforts of all involved parties in resolving these issues amicably. We express our gratitude to Hon’ble Director (HR), PGM (Pers), PGM (SR) and CGM (UP–West) for their active involvement in resolving the issue to the satisfaction of all concerned. We also express our appreciation for our CHQ nominees Shri A A Khan and Shri Vaibhav Goyal, Circle AIGETOA Team of UP (West) under the leadership of Shri V K Yadav CP AIGETOA, Shri Nageendra Pratap Yadava, CS AIGETOA and the District Team of AIGETOA Aligarh Shri Vikas Kumar for handling the issue in perfection. We also express our gratitude to the leaders of Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) for their active support, guidance and involvement in the matter.

Let us continue to work together towards the betterment of our beloved organization BSNL and the welfare of all members.

Countrywide Notice for Lunch Hour Demonstration on 6th Feb 2024 served by all Circle Bodies of AIGETOA :

Notice for Lunch Hour Demonstration on 6th Feb 2024 served by all Circle Bodies of AIGETOA across the country in response to the AIGETOA CHQ notice dated 24.01.2024 for LHD.

Zone wise Notice Served by All Circles :

Central Zone

Chhattisgarh. Click here for Notice

Madhya Pradesh. Click here for Notice

UP East. Click here for Notice

UP West. Click here for Notice

West Zone

Gujarat. Click here for Notice

Maharashtra. Click here for Notice

Rajasthan. Click here for Notice

East Zone

Andanam & Nicobar. Click here Notice

Assam. Click here for Notice

Bihar. Click here for Notice

Jharkhand. Click here for Notice

North East-I. Click here for Notice

North East-II. Click here for Notice

Odisha. Click here for Notice

North Zone :

ALTTC. Click here for notice

Delhi CO. Click here for notice

Haryana. Click here for notice

Himachal Pradesh. Click here for notice

Jammu & Kashmir. Click here for notice

NTR – Delhi. Click here for Notice

Punjab. Click here for Notice

Uttarakhand. Click here for Notice

South Zone :

Andhra Pradesh. Click here for notice

Chennai Telecom District (CHTD). Click here for notice

Karnataka. Click here for notice

Kerala. Click here for notice

Telangana. Click here for notice

Tamilnadu. Click here for notice

AIGETOA countrywide Lunch Hour Demonstration at BSNL CO, all Circle Headquarters and BA Headquarters by executives on 6th February 2024 highlighting the critical issues impacting the working environment and resource allocation within the organization.

Click here for the notice for Lunch Hour Demonstration

Special CL approval for PWD Employees – BSNL issued orders, PWD Commission Court Mandates BSNL to Grant Additional Special Casual Leave, Upholding Rights of PWD Employees :

Congratulations to all…💐💐

AIGETOA first of all congratulates Sh Ketan chauhan for fighting case in PWD commission court which forced management to accept the rightful need of Disabled employees…Even though management was adamant on 8+4 theory with false explanation, PWD court directed them to implement 4 additional Special CL.

The issue has been lingering for long and despite several times discussion on the matter, management was reluctant to issue the order. In fact, even after getting a positive verdict from PWD commissioner court management was showing unwillingness to implement the same. The issue was raised by AIGETOA CHQ in the recently held meeting with Hon’ble MoC also wherein we apprised him of this injustice to the PWD employees of BSNL. The issue was being consistently pursued by AIGETOA CHQ team at various levels and today finally the rightful due has been extended.

We take this opportunity to once again thank Shri Ketan Chauhan for getting the things in favour from the Hon’ble Chief Commissioner Court for Persons with Disabilities.

We also assure one and all that the issue of reservation in promotions is being actively pursued by AIGETOA CHQ Team and we remain committed to ensure that the rightful promotions are extended to one and all. We are prepared to take this matter at all levels including with Hon’ble supreme court also, if the rightful due is denied to the PWD candidates in ensuring the reservation in promotions from 30.06.2016 i.e. the cut off date stipulated by Hon’ble Supreme Court.

Click here for the orders issued by BSNL CO for 4 additional special casual leaves

Click here for the order by Hon’ble Chief Commissioner Court for Persons with disabilities