General Secretary Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS) Shri Surendra Kumar Pandey Ji writes to the Hon’ble Minister of Communications (MoC) Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia Ji, raising serious concerns over the continued non-implementation of the IDA increase for BSNL/MTNL employees and pensioners, despite clear orders issued by DPE dated 24.04.2026.

Click here for Letter by GS BMS

BMS highlighted that the IDA revision is a statutory, formula-based adjustment linked to CPI and not a discretionary financial decision. Despite compliance by BSNL/MTNL in updating the required details on the PE Portal, DoT has directed BSNL to place the matter before its Board to assess affordability, which is contrary to established norms and undermines the very basis of IDA revision.

BMS has strongly objected to this approach, stating that converting a mandatory wage revision into an affordability-linked decision is unjustified and will set a dangerous precedent. It was emphasized that such actions can lead to indefinite delays in future IDA revisions and will severely impact employee morale as well as financial stability of pensioners.

The letter further pointed out that pensioners draw their pension from the Government of India and not from BSNL/MTNL, and therefore linking their IDA revision to BSNL’s financial position is completely illogical and against established principles.

BMS has requested immediate intervention of the Hon’ble Minister with the following key demands:

1] Immediate directions to delink IDA revision from affordability conditions and ensure implementation through BSNL Board without delay.

2] Full implementation of DPE order dated 24.04.2026 with IDA revision effective from 01.01.2026.

3] Release of arrears along with revised payment at the earliest, preferably in May 2026 salary.

4] Clear assurance that future IDA revisions will not be subjected to such arbitrary conditions.

BMS has urged the Government to correct this deviation urgently and restore confidence among the BSNL/MTNL workforce and pensioners.

AIGETOA has submitted a comprehensive representation on HR reforms in BSNL to the HR Reforms Committee chaired by the Additional Secretary (T), DoT Government of India. The submission responds to the recent communications from DoT and BSNL Board on HR reforms and places a structured roadmap to correct long-pending anomalies in personnel management and career progression of BSNL executives.

Click here for the Letter to AST, DoT (Chairman of the Committee)

Click here for the Detailed Presentation – Structural Issues, Critical Analysis & Suggestions for BSNL

Click here for Summary of Presentation through PPT

Annexures : Annexure-1, Annexure-2, Annexure-3, Annexure-4, Annexure-A

AIGETOA, has underlined that the representation captures the ground realities of BSNL’s executives and suggests practical reforms aimed at both organizational sustainability and employee motivation. The association has also requested an opportunity to present the issues and proposals in person before the Committee.

AIGETOA highlighted that despite having a highly qualified, experienced and committed workforce, BSNL continues to suffer from deep-rooted structural issues in governance and management. The continued dependence on officers on deputation for key decision-making roles for more than two decades has resulted in lack of ownership, weak accountability, and discontinuity in policy implementation.

The association strongly brought out the issue of severe career stagnation wherein a large number of executives have received only a single promotion in their entire service span. The situation is further aggravated due to non-filling of vacancies, with around 1000 DGM posts lying vacant, coupled with absence of a time-bound and structured promotion policy.

AIGETOA also raised serious concerns regarding the discriminatory HR practices prevailing in BSNL, particularly the dual pay structure between BSNL executives and officers on deputation. While officers on deputation continue to draw benefits as per Central Government norms, BSNL executives are governed by outdated and inadequate pay structures, leading to widespread dissatisfaction and erosion of morale.

It was further highlighted that recommendations of various committees constituted over the years have largely remained unimplemented, resulting in policy inertia. The increasing trend of lateral recruitment at higher levels has also created a trust deficit among internal executives and has adversely impacted the natural career progression framework.

AIGETOA has placed concrete and implementable suggestions before the Committee, including introduction of a time-bound promotion framework with provision of maximum residency period and personal upgradation, immediate filling of all vacant posts across levels, and adoption of CPSU-aligned promotion policies to ensure structured career growth.

The association has also recommended a calibrated and time-bound phase-out of the deputation system and development of a stable, internally driven leadership framework. It has been emphasized that leadership roles must progressively be filled from within BSNL to ensure continuity, accountability, and institutional strength.

Further, AIGETOA has demanded implementation of the 3rd PRC, removal of dual pay structure, and revision of outdated allowances such as TA/DA, HRA, transport allowance, and other benefits in line with present-day realities. Recruitment policies should be aligned with CPSU practices, with focus on entry-level recruitment and restricted lateral entry only in specialized non-core areas with proper benchmarking.

The need for a robust accountability framework was also emphasized, wherein performance of senior leadership is directly linked with organizational outcomes through defined KPIs. Transparent and merit-based selection mechanisms for leadership positions have also been proposed to strengthen governance.

AIGETOA reiterated that the revival of BSNL is intrinsically linked to empowerment of its internal workforce through fair, transparent and equitable HR policies. The association has requested the Committee for a detailed interaction to present its submissions and deliberate on the critical issues in detail.

AIGETOA firmly believes that without comprehensive HR reforms focusing on inclusiveness, accountability and internal capacity building, long-term sustainability and growth of BSNL cannot be achieved.

Team AIGETOA CHQ Shri Ravishil Verma (General Secretary), Shri G. Veerabhadra Rao (All India President), Shri Aftab Ahmed Khan (Chief Patron & National Convenor) and Shri Pavan Akhand (Deputy General Secretary) on 28th April 2026 attended the meeting with the CMD BSNL and discussed in detail the long-pending issue of HR Committee Reports, transfers under the OTP, including hard tenure transfers, and cases on humanitarian grounds. The association highlighted the urgency of early execution of all pending OTP cases to address growing concerns among executives.

1] HR Committee Reports & Implementation:

AIGETOA also discussed the status of various committees constituted on HR issues and strongly urged the CMD to approve the pending committee reports at the earliest. It was further requested that the approved recommendations be implemented in toto and that the present rates/benefits be extended to BSNL employees without further delay, as these measures are crucial for addressing long-standing HR concerns and improving employee welfare.

2] Pending OTP Transfers & Hard Tenure Relieving:

AIGETOA brought to the notice of CMD that many executives serving in hard tenure circles have already completed their tenure but are still awaiting transfer and relieving orders since July 2025. At the same time, several executives empanelled under OTP are also awaiting posting orders to hard tenure circles. It was emphasized that due to the variation in tenure periods (1½, 2, and 2½ years) and annual execution of OTP, many executives completing tenure between June 2026 and March 2027 may be deprived of consideration. AIGETOA requested that OTP orders may be issued up to March 2027 based on submitted choices, with relieving upon completion of tenure, and that all eligible applicants for hard tenure postings be duly considered without omission.

3] Consideration of Cut-off Date for 31.03.2027 or atleast 31.12.2026:

It was firmly proposed that the cut-off date be extended to 31.03.2027 instead of 31.03.2026 as being contemplated by management. At the very least, 31.12.2026 should be considered to ensure fairness and uniformity.

4] Consideration of Own Cost OTP Duration of 2 years:

The proposal to extend Own Cost OTP duration to 4 years was opposed. AIGETOA demanded continuation of the existing provision of 2 years.

5] Humanitarian Grounds & Family Hardships:

The association strongly urged that OTP requests be considered sympathetically on humanitarian grounds, including medical issues of self and dependents, caregiver responsibilities, spouse grounds, children’s education, and cases of executives above 58 years or nearing retirement. It was emphasized that such considerations are essential to balance organizational requirements with employee welfare.

6] Return to Parent Circle (Non-Hard Tenure Cases):

AIGETOA requested that executives transferred from their home circles to other non-hard tenure circles on long-stay grounds be given an opportunity to return to their preferred circles. It was further requested that all such cases due up to 31.03.2027 be considered, especially in view of the annual transfer cycle.

7] Utilization of Experienced Executives in Non-Territorial Circles:

AIGETOA highlighted the need for optimal utilization of experienced executives posted in specialized/non-territorial circles. It was requested that such executives be retained or posted within similar specialized environments to effectively utilize their expertise and maintain operational efficiency.

8] Return to Parent Circle for LICE AGM Cases:

The association raised the issue of executives transferred due to LICE AGM promotions and requested that they be allowed to return to their parent circles, especially where long-stay criteria were not met. It was also highlighted that many executives had earlier moved under OTP on genuine grounds but were subsequently transferred again due to promotion, creating hardship and a perception of promotion acting as a penalty. AIGETOA requested a one-time relaxation to address such cases.

AIGETOA urged CMD for expeditious execution of all the HR Committee Reports and its implementation at the earliest possible, all pending OTP transfers, including hard tenure cases, AGM LICE cases, inter-circle transfers, and humanitarian cases, ensuring a balanced approach between organizational needs and employee welfare. It was emphasized that timely action would significantly reduce hardships, improve morale, and strengthen confidence among executives.

AIGETOA remains hopeful for a fair and timely decision that will address the long-pending concerns of executives.

On 28.04.2026 (Tuesday), Team AIGETOA comprising of Shri Ravishil Verma (General Secretary), Shri G. Veerabhadra Rao (All India President), Shri Pavan Akhand (Deputy General Secretary) and Shri Ansal Mohammed C H (Assistant General Secretary) attended the meeting with Director HR and PGM ( Legal) and discussed the following points.

1] Meeting with Director (HR):

A detailed meeting was held with Director (HR) Shri Kalyan Sagar Nippani, wherein various long-pending and critical HR issues concerning BSNL executives were discussed at length. The discussion was comprehensive and focused on addressing key concerns affecting executives across cadres.

a] OTP Transfers & Compassionate Considerations:

The issue of OTP transfers was discussed extensively, with AIGETOA strongly advocating for extended consideration in genuine cases such as hard tenure postings, medical grounds, spouse joining requests, and medical caregiver situations. The association emphasized the need for a humane, flexible, and case-specific approach to ensure relief to affected executives. Strong emphasis was also laid on consideration of the cut off date as 31st March 2027 or at least 31st December 2026 to ensure a judicious approach and uniformity in future annual transfers.

b] Promotions & Seniority Issues:

AIGETOA raised serious concerns regarding the delay in promotions across various cadres and the urgent need for finalization of pending seniority lists. It was highlighted that such delays are adversely impacting career progression and morale, and timely action is essential to maintain organizational efficiency.

c] Perks & Allowances Revision:

The long-pending issue of revision of perks and allowances was discussed in detail. AIGETOA urged the management to expedite the process, highlighting the necessity to address existing disparities and improve the overall welfare of executives. We reminded Director HR about his earlier assurance about informing the conclusive decisions in a week. Director HR told that due to some senior officers on leave, it could not be done and positively assured that he will be reverting with the same within this week.

d] Internal Opportunities vs External Recruitment:

The association expressed concerns regarding external recruitments without adequate consideration of internal talent. It was stressed that priority should be given to eligible internal candidates to ensure fair career growth opportunities and optimal utilization of experienced manpower.

e] Stagnation in E6 Scale:

The growing concern of stagnation among executives in the E6 scale was deliberated. AIGETOA requested immediate corrective measures to address this issue and ensure proper career progression avenues.

f] Promotions from AO to CAO:

We expressed our deep displeasure for Delay in issuing promotion orders and also Request for early issuance of promotion orders. The Dir HR said that as per legal opinion from ASG, BSNL has sought Supreme court concurrence to protect this promotion from any other legal complications in the near future. He assured that he is personally pushing the team for early resolution.

2] Meeting with PGM Legal:

Subsequently, the AIGETOA team met PGM Legal Shri Nelli Ramakrishna to deliberate on AO to CAO promotions, legal aspects impacting the other promotions, including promotion blockages and possible remedies within the legal framework. Discussions were also held on Seniority issues, SAB pension-related issues to address pending concerns.

It is understood that DOT has referred the Department of Public Enterprises’ OM dated 27.02.2026 w.r.t increased IDA w.e.f 01.01.2026 to BSNL Board citing the fragile financial condition of BSNL for ascertaining if the current IDA revision can be met from the internal accruals of BSNL with a direction to furnish a suitable recommendation of the Board to DoT for further necessary action by the Department.

Click here for DoT Letter

The clause 5 was introduced in the last OM as most of the CPSUs failed to fill up the information on CPSE survey portal.

Click here for letter

Now that the CPSE have filled up the portal, DPE has restored its original format. The aforesaid order vindicates the stand of AIGETOA that IDA increase should not have been made a issue as the government can not deny increase in Dearness Allowance citing non affordability due to losses.

To the best of our knowledge, The Jan to March IDA increase is also going to be implemented soon.

Now one association will start a rhetoric of having brought this order by going to moon and stars to obtain this but the fact remains that the issue was always procedural in nature and everything was just procedural in nature. Their own website exposes their false claims.

We again emphasize and request that larger need is to concentrate on the actual core issues of Pay, Pension, Promotions, 3rd PRC, Residuals of 2nd PRC and issues pertaining to BSNL viability. Sooner they realize, better it would be.

Team AIGETOA on behalf of Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch, comparing of General Secretary Sh Ravi Shil Verma, President Sh Veerabhadra Rao and Dy General Secretary Sh Pavan Akhand held a pre-scheduled meeting with Hon’ble Minister of State for Communications (MoSC) Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar Ji on 24 April 2026 at Sanchar Bhawan, New Delhi to discuss important issues concerning BSNL w.r.t appointment of Regular CMD BSNL, 3rd PRC, Residual issues of 2nd PRC, Promotions, Implementation of IDA increase for BSNL, One PSU One Policy,  Operational issues and the current state of affairs of BSNL.

1] Appointment of Regular CMD, BSNL :

During the meeting, Team AIGETOA raised the issue of appointment of a regular CMD in BSNL, underlining that stable and full-time leadership at the top is essential for strategic continuity, faster decision-making and stronger institutional confidence. The matter was presented as a priority in the context of the present challenges as well as the future direction of BSNL.

To which Hon’ble MoSC updated that directions for search committee has already been given and it is under process.

2] Implementation of 3rd Central Pay Revision Commission (PRC) for BSNL :

AIGETOA again strongly pressed for immediate implementation of the 3rd PRC. The prolonged delay has significantly impacted morale and motivation of executives. It was emphasized that pay revision is not merely financial in nature, but are essential for restoring parity, dignity, and confidence among the workforce.

The issue of affordability clause was also raised, with a clear demand for its waiver considering BSNL’s unique operational and financial constraints.

Hon’ble Minister extended empathy in the matter and assured to help.

3] Residual Issues of 2nd PRC & Allowances :

Pending issues related to the 2nd PRC, including TA/DA and Transport Allowance revisions, were discussed. It was pointed out that despite repeated assurances, these matters remain unresolved due to procedural delays and lack of ownership at different levels.

Hon’ble MoSC directed his team to take up the matter once again with concerned section in DoT as well as Director HR in BSNL

4] Promotions & Career Progression :

The matter of promotions was also discussed at length. The team highlighted serious concerns regarding stagnation due to delays in promotions across cadres. The absence of time-bound promotions is affecting organisational efficiency and employee motivation.

AIGETOA also stressed the need for a structured in-house management cadre, reducing dependency on deputation and ensuring internal leadership growth.

Hon’ble MoSC said that the submissions and suggestions of Bharatiya Doorsanchar Manch (BDM) on Proposal for development of BSNL’s own Management Cadre, Structured Succession Planning, and rationalization of organizational hierarchy which was made on 09.01.2026 has been taken note of and the necessary action in this regard is being explored through the committee constituted for the purpose.

5] Implementation of IDA Increase for BSNL :

Another important point raised was the implementation of IDA increase for BSNL employees. In this regard, Team AIGETOA explained the seriousness of the issue and sought intervention for early resolution. The Hon’ble MoSC assured that he would discuss the matter with the Secretary Telecom, which is a positive development in the follow-up of this issue.

6] One PSU, One Policy :

Team AIGETOA also raised the issue of One PSU One Policy, pointing out the need for uniformity and fairness in the treatment of employees across similarly placed public sector organizations. Team raised the issue of discriminatory service conditions within the same organization. The officers on deputation continue to receive CDA pay scales and benefits of Central Pay Commissions, while regular BSNL employees remain on IDA scales and are denied PSU benefits on affordability grounds, even though both draw from the same BSNL financial system. It is imbalance inequitable and demoralizing for the permanent workforce.

7] HR Hierarchy and Transformation :

A significant part of the discussion focused on the DoT letter issued to BSNL regarding creation of internal managerial hierarchy. Team AIGETOA shared its concerns and submissions on this issue and explained the organisational implications of any restructuring exercise that does not adequately recognise the existing pool of qualified and experienced internal officers in BSNL. The same was noted and assured to be looked into.

8] Cadre Strength & Internal Capabilities :

The meeting also covered AIGETOA’s submissions regarding the recent committee constituted by DoT for HR Transformation. Team AIGETOA apprised the Hon’ble Minister about the availability of qualified and experienced officers within BSNL across levels from E1 to E9, and strongly conveyed that any HR restructuring or managerial framework for BSNL must give due weight to this internal strength and experience base.

Team AIGETOA provided a level-wise detailed status of qualified and experienced internal officers from E1 to E9 level to demonstrate the robust in-house talent pool available for leadership roles.

This point was particularly important because the future internal structure of BSNL cannot be viewed in isolation from the competence, exposure and service experience already available within the organization. Team AIGETOA conveyed that internal officers are fully capable of handling managerial responsibilities across the hierarchy and that policy decisions must reflect this institutional reality.

AIGETOA presented its submissions and highlighted the availability of a large pool of experienced and qualified internal officers from E1 to E9 levels capable of managing BSNL effectively.

9] Operational concerns :

In addition to HR and pay-related matters, Team AIGETOA also discussed various operational issues and the current state of affairs of BSNL. The broader concern placed before the Hon’ble Minister was that HR stability, financial equality and operational strengthening must move together if BSNL is to function with renewed confidence and purpose.

The association conveyed that policy uncertainty, pending HR matters and leadership gaps affect not only executives but also the overall working environment of the organization. Timely intervention at the appropriate level would therefore have a positive impact on both the workforce and the institution.

The Hon’ble MoSC listened patiently to all submissions and acknowledged the concerns raised. He conveyed that the Government is aware of the challenges faced by BSNL and assured that necessary steps are being examined for strengthening the organization.

He also directed his team to call for a follow-up meeting with BSNL management, along with status updates on the issues raised by AIGETOA.

A follow-up meeting is expected shortly, wherein detailed inputs and data sought by the Hon’ble Minister will be presented by Team AIGETOA.

GS AIGETOA submits request for issuance of directions to Circle Heads to withhold force relieving of Executives under Intra Circle transfers till finalization of pending & fresh OTP requests by Pers Cell, BSNL CO.

Click here for the letter

AIGETOA writes to CMD BSNL reminder letter seeking immediate communication of the final decision on the long-pending proposal of “One PSU – One Executive Association.”

Click here for Letter

Despite the formation of a committee in Feb 2025 and subsequent deliberations, the final recommendations have not yet been shared with stakeholders. This prolonged delay, even after consensus among major executive associations, is creating uncertainty among executives.

AIGETOA reiterated that the proposal was jointly supported by all major associations with the objective of ensuring unity, improving efficiency, and enabling faster resolution of HR issues. The association emphasized that the concept offers clear organizational benefits, including reduction in administrative overheads, elimination of inter-association conflicts, and establishment of a single-point interface for smoother decision-making.

Expressing concern over the delay, AIGETOA stated that keeping the matter unresolved for over a year gives an impression that either there is reluctance at the management level or certain elements within the committee or outside are not inclined towards implementation, despite the consensus among major associations. The association has demanded transparency in case of any objections and called for a joint discussion if required.

AIGETOA is deeply saddened to inform you about the passing of Shri Jagdish Chhabra (Retired DGM Finance, BSNL), the beloved father of Shri Yogesh Chhabra, Circle Secretary of AIGETOA Punjab. He left for his heavenly abode on Monday 20th April, 2026.

AIGETOA family extends its heartfelt condolences to Shri Yogesh Chhabra and the bereaved family during this difficult time. We pray to the Almighty to grant the departed soul eternal peace and give the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.