Relief of the railway employees in the event of a transfer request

Railway transfer request

Relief of the railway employees in the event of a transfer request

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

RB.No: 203/2019

No.E(NG)I/2019 /PM2/ 18CC

New Delhi, dated November 26-11-2019

The General Managers
All Zonal Railways & Production Units.
(as per srandard mailing list)

Sub: Relieving of Railway employees in time after order of transfer in cases of request transfer.

As the Railway administrations are aware, instructions already exist which provide that in cases of request transfer, the requests should be dealt with in an organized and expeditious manner so that there is no occasion for any grievance in the mind of the staff in regard to the handling of their request.

It has been observed that despite the existence of such instruction, due to administrative exigencies,it sometimes becomes difficult to relieve the transferred employee a within a reasonable time, which results in loss of seniority to the employee in his new place of posting. The loss is even greater when he goes to posts one grade below, and new recruits from subsequent batches join before him.

Also check: Comprehensive Transfer Policy – Exemption from 5 years service condition – Indian Railways – NFIR

The loss in seniority in such cases resulting from delayed relieving of the emproyee often leads to litigation, and structures passed by Hon’able Courts.

In one such case recently, the Hon’ble CAT/Chennai in OAs, No.751/2019 and other similar OAs, vide their common order dated 05.07.2019, inter-alia observed as under:

Since it is submitted by the applicants that IREC is silent on the above issue and accordingly there is a void in this regard in the policy, we deem it appropriate to direct the first respondent to consider the concerned raised in the OAs as a policy issue and take an appropriate decision on whether and if so, how the interests of such transferred employees should be protected in regard to their seniority at-least from the date from which they where approved for IRT, if they could not be relieved soon thereafter in public interest. Such policy decision may be taken and orders issued within a period of six month from the date of receipt of a copy of this order.”

The matter has accordingly been considered in the Board. while it may not be desirable / feasible to assign seniority to transferred employee of approval of in the new unit from the date of approval of the transfer, when the employees is still actually working in the parent unit, every effort should be made to relieve her/him at an early date. Where delay in relieving of the employees after orders are issued exceeds is likely to exceed 3 months, the case should be put up by Sr.DPO/ WPO to DRM/ CWM as the case may be giving specific reasons for the delay and likely date of relief.

Please acknowledge receipt.

(D.Joseph)

Railway Board

Source: NFIR

Extending the benefit of Special Allowance to Traffic Gatemen

Extending the benefit of Special Allowance to Traffic Gatemen

NFIR

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
RAILWAY BOARD

No. E(P &A)I-2013/FE-2/4a(pt.)
The General Secretary,
NFIR
3, Chelmsford Road,
New Delhi-110055.

New Delhi, dated: 23.10.2019

Sub.:- Extending the benefit of Special Allowance to Traffic Gatemen.

Sir,
The undersigned is directed to refer to your letter No. 1/5(g)/2019 dated 10.10.2019 on the subject noted above. In this regard it is stated that the issue regarding extending the benefit of LC Gate Allowance to Gatemen (now Track Maintainers) manning the Traffic Gates at par with the Gatemen (now Track Maintainers) manning the Engg. Gates is under consideration in Board's office in consultation with Ministry of Finance. A consolidated proposal in respect of payment of Special Allowance to the traffic Gatemen deployed to work on Level Crossing Gates (LC Gate) alongwith an another proposal has been sent to Ministry of Finance (MoF) vide U.O. dated 16.08.2019. However, no reply has since been received from Ministry of Finance so far.

For Secretary Railway Board

Source: NFIR

Railway Vacancies in 7th CPC Pay Level-1 twent per cent quota reserved for Course Completed Act Apprentices

Railway Vacancies in 7th CPC Pay Level-1 twent per cent quota reserved for Course Completed Act Apprentices

NFIR

No. II/94/Part I

Dated: 08/11/2019

The Member (Staff),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: 20% quota vacancies in 7th CPC Pay Level-1 reserved for "Course Completed Act Apprentices" - need for delegation of powers to GMs to fill the posts promptly - reg.

Ref:  (i) Railway Board’s reply to NFIR vide letter No. E(NG)II/2019/RR-I/5 dated 23/04/2019
(ii) NFIR’s letter vide No.II/94/Part I dated 17/08/2019 to the Member Staff, Railway Board.

Responding to Railway Board’s reply dated 23/04/2019, the Federation vide its letter dated 17/08/2019 has again conveyed to the Railway Board certain valid points with regard to fulfillment of 20% quota vacancies in GP 1800 Level-1 by Course Completed Act Apprentices of Railways.

Also check: 7th Pay Commission Pay Matrix Table Level 1 to 5

NFIR once again re-iterates the following for re-consideration :-

• The 20% quota meant to be filled by Railways trained Act Apprentices has, in fact, not been fulfilled due to inexplicable reasons which are beyond the control of RRCs. This is causing adverse impact on the IR system as the vacancies in Level-l particularly in Safety categories of Technical Departments continued to remain unfilled while at the same time the Course Completed Act Apprentices of Railways are out of job despite the fact that they possess required skills for performing technical jobs in Railways.
• In Workshops and Depots/Sheds, the Act Apprentices (under training) are utilized by the authorities on regular jobs during training period due to heavy shortage of manpower, with the objective of achieving out turn targets fixed by the Railway Board. The earmarked 20% quota vacancies, if allowed to be filled under GM’s powers, the trained apprentices will have job opportunities and equally their skills will be of greater advantage for Railways to improve quality and efficiency.
• Another important factor causing negative impact on the IR system is non-consideration of Inter Railway transfer requests of Level-l safety category staff (Track Maintainers, Helpers etc.,) due to non-availability of replacement. Even the options of optees to different projects on Indian Railways are not being forwarded by the Zonal Railways despite communications from Project Organisations in view of heavy vacancy position.
• For ensuring quality and efficiency of Railways, adequate manpower possessing required skills is the need of the hour. The field position reveals that in Depots, Sheds and Workshops the staff strength is very much inadequate and for this reason, the GMs are required to be given powers for induction of course completed act apprentices against 20% vacancies in Level-l for meeting the exigency and urgency.

NFIR, therefore, once again requests the Railway Board (MS) to kindly re-consider the matter for delegating powers to the General Managers to induct Course Completed Act Apprentices against 20% quota vacancies of Level-1 posts as laid down in RBE No. 71/2016 dated 21/06/2016 de-linking with the recruitment process of RRC. Federation may kindly be replied on action taken on this letter.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr.M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Comprehensive Transfer Policy – Exemption from 5 years service condition – Indian Railways – NFIR

Comprehensive Transfer Policy – Exemption from 5 years service condition – Indian Railways – NFIR

NFIR

No.II/4/2018-I

Dated: 07/11/2019

The Chairman,
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir.

Sub: Comprehensive transfer policy – exemption from 5 years service condition-reg.

Ref: (i) NFIR’s PNM Item No. 18/2016.
(ii) Railway Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2005/TR/20 dated 10/02/2017.
(iii) NFIR’s letter No. II/14/Part VII dated 21st Feb,2017, 23/02/2017 and 12/04/2017.
(iv) NFIR’s letter No. II/4/Part VII dated 15/05/2017 & 04/12/2017.
(v) Railway Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2015/TR/20 dated 17/01/2018.
(vi) NFIR’s letter No. II/14/Part VII dated 30/01/2018,
(vii) NFIR’s letter No. II/14/2018 dated 23/07/2018.
(viii) NFIR’s letter No. II/14/2018-I dated 22/07/2019 & 25/03/2019.

Federation brings to the kind notice of the Railway Board (CRB) that NFIR’s PNM Agenda Item No. 18/2016 relating to relaxation of service condition of minimum five years service in the case of re-employed Defence Forces Personnel seeking inter Railway transfer on request has been pending since the last three years. During NFIR’s PNM meeting held with the Railway Board on 25/26-04-2019, the Official Side conveyed through Action Taken Statement as under:-

Also check: Comprehensive transfer policy – exemption from 5 years service condition

“The matter is presently under consideration. Feedback has been called for, from all the Zonal Railways. Responses from some of them are still awaited.”

Federation feels sad to state that though a period of over six months passed, progress made into the matter is yet to be conveyed.

In this connection, Federation also brings to the notice of the Board (CRB) that the NFIR General Secretary held discussions at the level of CRB more than once (last discussions held on 22/11/2018), when the CRB gave assurance that the relaxation has been processed and the final orders would be issued very shortly, but unfortunately relaxation decision has not been issued so far.

May I once again seek the intervention of CRB to kindly see that order issued granted relaxation to five years service condition in favour of former Defence Personnel re-employed in Railways, facilitating their inter Railway transfer requests soon.

Yours faithfully,

(Dr. M.Raghavaiah)

General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Reckoning Grade Pay Rs.4200/- Level 6 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix as entry Grade Pay for granting financial upgradation under MACPS to the Station Master category in Railways

NFIR

Reckoning Grade Pay Rs.4200/- Level 6 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix as entry Grade Pay for granting financial upgradation under MACPS to the Station Master category in Railways.

No. IV//MACPS/ 09/2019

Dated: 09/09/2019

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Reckoning Grade Pay Rs.4200/- Level 6 of 7th CPC Pay Matrix as entry Grade Pay for granting financial upgradation under MACPS to the Station Master category in Railways - reg.

Federation feels disappointed that despite the above subject was listed in the PNM Agenda two years ago, there has been no decision from Railway Board till date.

Vide NFIR's letter of even no. dated 09/04/2019, merits of the case have been adequately explained besides extract of Item No. 31 of Railway Board's letter PC-V/99/1/1/1 dated 19/02/2002 has also been furnished. In terms of item No. 31 of Board's letter dated 19/02/2002, the Station Masters are entitled for 3rd financial upgradation under MACPS in GP 5400/ Level-9 (7th CPC). In this connection, Railway Board's letter No. PC- V/2019/ CC/7/WCR dated 05/04/2019 addressed to General Manager (P), W.C. Railway, Jabalpur allowing 3rd financial upgradation in terms of Board's letter dated 19th February,2002 (para 1.4) may be connected. It is however unfortunate that although the case of Station Master category gets covered by Railway Board's letter dated 19th February, 2002 for the purpose of entitlement of 3rd financial upgradation (GP 5400/Level-9) under MACPS, the Railway Board have not responded to Federation's PNM Item No. 15/2017 even after lapse of two years.

Attention is also invited to 7th CPC recommendation contained in para 11.40.55 of the report, relevant extract of which is placed below:-

"Keeping in mind the identical educational qualifications required for the posts of ASM and SM, with practically no difference in the functions performed by .them, and the historical importance of the post, it is recommended that the ASMs in GP 2800 should first be upgraded to GP 4200 and then fitted in the revised Pay Matrix. The cadre will then have 60 percent posts in Level 60 and 40 percent in Level 7. The designation of ASM may be abolished".

Federation once again urges upon the Railway Board to expedite action and decision, granting 3rd financial upgradation under MACPS to Station Master category in GP 5400/ Level-9.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah).
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to the Railway employees for the year 2018-19

Railway Bonus

Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to the Railway employees for the year 2018-19

No. I/10/Part IV

Dated: 19/08/2019

The Chairman,
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to the Railway employees for the year 2018-19.

NFIR brings to your kind notice that the Productivity Linked Bonus formula was conceptualized in November, 1979 by an agreement between the Federations and Railway Ministry. So far as the Salary Calculation Ceiling for the purpose of payment of P.L. Bonus is concerned, you may kindly be aware that the notional salary at Rs. 7000/- p.m. is taken into account and amount arrived at NFIR has been repeatedly urging upon the Railway Ministry to remove salary calculation ceiling for making payment of P.L. Bonus to the Railway employees on actual wages as the payment is linked with productivity. This was also part of Charter of Demands of NFIR placed before the Railway Ministry when Strike Notice was served on 09th June, 2016. However, this issue is yet to be resolved.
So far as payment of P.L. Bonus for the year 2018-19, to be paid to Railway employees before the commencement of Dussehra Puja Holidays is concerned, NFIR places the following facts for kind appreciation : -

• Despite over 2 & half lakh vacancies, the Railway employees have given qualitative output during the year 2018- 19, shouldering additional burden which fact needs to be given greater consideration for the purpose of revising the number of days wages upwardly for payment of P.L. Bonus.
• Over two lakh employees have been performing twelve hours duty per day, despite justification exists for introduction of eight hours duty under "Continuous" classification on the basis of Job Analysis. The Zonal Railways are yet to comply with Railway Board's instructions dated 30th September, 2016 for revising the classification from 'EI' to 'Continuous' . This also needs to be given due weightage.
• The overall performance of Railway employees has been 'Very Good' as there has been no dislocation/ detention on employees' account.
• During the previous seven years, the P.L. Bonus was paid to Railway employees equivalent to 78 days wages (with notional salary calculation). Upward revision of P.L. Bonus days beyond 78 days wages, would motivate Railway employees to continue to perform with determination.
• Federation insists that Capital input should not be taken as criteria at all, as the utilization of the said Capital is in the hands of management as workers are not concerned with said investment. It is further placed on record that at no point of time, consultations were made with the Federations on the need for capital investment or otherwise.

Summing up, NFIR urges the Railway Board (CRB) to kindly consider for enhancement of number of days wages than previous years for payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to Railway Employees before commencement of Dussehra Puja Holidays.

Yours faithfully,

(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: Railway Bonus 2019

Railways - Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme RELHS-97

Railways - Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme RELHS-97

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen
3, CHELMSFORD ROAD, NEW DELHI . 110055

Affiliated to :
Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
International Transport Workers' Federation (lTF)

No.II/13A/Part II,
The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme (RELHS-97) - reg.

Ref: Railway Board's letter No. 2011/H/28/1/RELHS/Court Case dated 31/05/2012.

Kind attention of Railway Board is invited to the instructions issued vide Board's letter dated 31/05/2012 wherein the Railway Board had decided to allow pre-March 2009 retirees to be members of the RELHS-97 and also for post March 2009 onwards, the retirees shall be the Members of the Scheme. The Railway Board while allowing pre-March 2009 retirees the RELHS-97 Membership without any time limit, had imposed restriction of one year for March, 2009 onwards retirees to become Members of the Scheme.

Instances have been brought to the notice of the Federation by our affiliated Unions that on many Zonal Railways/PUs there are good number of retired Railway employees or their dependent family members belonging to the period post March 2009 and upto 3110512012 who could not avail the opportunity during the one year period, are now requesting to joining the Scheme. These retired employees or their dependent families have been living in rural areas and were unaware of the provision for joining RELHS-97 at that point of time. Some of our affiliated Unions took up the issue aI Zonal level in the PNM forum where the same has been pending for more than two years due to the reason that decision on this subject is required to be given by the Railway Board. Federation feels that the Railway Board would appreciate the circumstances under which the retired employees could not join the Scheme when opportunity was provided.

NFIR, therefore, requests the Railway Board to kindly consider the above points and issue modified instructions to enable the retired employees/ widows who retired during the period March, 2009 upto 31/05/2012 to join as members of RELHS-97 without any time limit. A copy of the instructions issued may be endorsed to the Federation.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Copy to the Director General (RHS), Railway Board, DFCC Building, Tilak Bridge, Pragati Maidan, Metro Bhavan, New Delhi for information and necessary action please.

Copy to the General Secretary, NCRES, Allahabad with reference to letter No. 104A/NCRES/19 dated 07/04/2019.

Copy to the General Secretaries of affiliated Unions of NFIR (expect NCRES).
Media Centre / NFIR.

Source : NFIR

Request for reckoning the Additional Allowance granted to Loco Pilot (Mail), Loco Pilot (Passenger) and Mail Guard for the purpose of computation of retirement benefits to Running Staff

Request for reckoning the Additional Allowance granted to Loco Pilot (Mail), Loco Pilot (Passenger) and Mail Guard for the purpose of computation of retirement benefits to Running Staff.

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen

No. IV/RSAC/2018

Dated: 18/04/2019

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Request for reckoning the Additional Allowance granted to Loco Pilot (Mail), Loco Pilot (Passenger) and Mail Guard for the purpose of computation of retirement benefits to Running Staff.

Ref:
(i) NFIR's PNM ItemNo. 08/2011.
(ii) NFIR's letter No. IV/RSAC/Con./Part VIII dated 13/10/2017.
(iii) Railway Board's letter No-E(P&A)II-2011/FE2/2 dated 11/12/20l7.

Kind attention of Railway Board is invited to NFIR's PNM Agenda Item No. 08/2011, Federation's letter and Railway Board's reply thereon, iited under reference.

The Railway Board through Action Taken Statement during NFIR's PNM meeting held on 10th/11th May, 2018 conveyed that the issue has been referred to the Ministry of Finance vide Board's letter dated 14/09/2016 and reminders vide dated 22/11/2016, 16/02/2017 and 17/05/2017 have also been sent to the Ministry of Finance (DoE), but however reply was still awaited. Railway Board may kindly appreciate that this is more than eight years old PNM Item without finality.

NFIR, therefore requests the Railway Board to kindly make special effons for obtaining approval of Ministry of Finance in order to finalize this long pending PNM Item.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr. M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Copy to the Executive Director, PC-I, Railway Board, DFCC Building, Tilak Bridge, Pragati
Maidan, Metro Bhavan, New Delhi.
Copy to the Executive Director (IR), Railway Board, New Delhi.
Copy to the General Secretaries of Zonal Unions of NFIR.
File No.8/2011 (PNM).
File No. IV/NFIR/RSAC-JC.

Source: NFIR

NFIR’s Meeting with Chairman, Railway Board on 11th April, 2019

NFIR’s Meeting with Chairman, Railway Board on 11th April, 2019

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR) Meeting with Chairman, Railway Board on 11th April, 2019

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen

3, CHELMSFORD ROAD, NEW DELHI - 110055

Affiliated to:
Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF)

Dated: 12/04/2019

No. II/95/2019
The General Secretaries of
Affiliated Unions of NFIR

Dear Brother,
Sub: NFIR’s Meeting with Chairman, Railway Board on 11th April, 2019-reg.

The affiliates are advised that the NFIR leaders (President, General Secretary and Joint General Secretary Shri B.C. Sharma) met Railway Board Chairman Shri V.K. Yadav on 11nd April, 2019 and discussed the subjects listed below:-

(a) LARSGESS: Need for granting appointment to the wards of safety category staff selected/medically found fit prior to 27th October, 2017.

CRB’s response: This matter is being pursued on daily basis for finding solution being legal matter wherein Legal Opinion/AG’s Opinion to be obtained for solving the problem.

NFIR however requested to see that Railway Board accords approval for appointment of wards presently waiting with anxiety.

(b) Quasi Administrative Unit Staff: CRB’s attention was invited to NFIR’s note vide No.II/1B/2018 dated 12/03/2019 and requested to see that Railway Board considers absorption of Quasi Administrative Unit Staff in view of the fact that these staff are being appointed by the management headed by Officer of the rank of not lower than JA Grade.

CRB’s response: CRB said that he will look into the matter again.

(c) Metro Railway, Kolkata - granting Zonal Railway status to RPF Department:
NFIR explained that all Departments of Metro Railway, Kolkata are functioning independently under the overall control of General Manager, Metro Railway while the RPF Department of Metro Railway is continued to be part of Eastern Railway and in this context NFIR conveyed that the General Manager, Metro Railway, Kolkata also wrote to Railway Board to accord independent Zonal Railway status to RPF wing of Metro Railway, Kolkata.

CRB has assured to take necessary action for treating RPF Department as independent Zonal Railway Organization under the command of PCSC, Metro Railway, Kolkata and under the overall control of General Manager, Metro Railway.

(d) Deployment of RPF Ministerial Staff to other Departments on option basis as per their request - implementation of the decision arrived at in the Joint Meeting:

NFIR reminded the CRB of its letter dated 11/02/2019 and back round of the case with request to give approval.

CRB said that the papers are with him and matter is under consideration.

Above is for information of affiliates for conveying to the field staff.

Yours fraternally,
sd/-
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Non-Grant of Revised Pension (7th CPC) to Pre-2016 Retirees

Non-Grant of Revised Pension (7th CPC) to Pre-2016 Retirees

NFIR
National Federation of India Railwaymen
3, Chelmsford Road, New Delhi - 110 055

No.II/35/2018

Dated: 16/11/2018

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Non-grant of revised pension 7th CPC to pre-2016 retirees - reg.
Ref: NFIR’s letter No. II/35/20l8 dated 08/09/2018

In view of difficulties faced for revision of pension (w.e.f. 01/01/2016 -7th CPC) of retired Running Staff consequent upon non-reckoning of 55% add on pay element to retired Running Staff, 30% add on pay element for retired Loco inspectors (pre-2016) and non-reckoning of 'Charge Allowance' granted to JA Grade Officers (worked on adhoc basis and retired) which is counted as pay for all purposes as per extant instructions, NFIR vide its letter dated 08/09/2018 requested the Railway Board to make adequate provisions in the ARPAN software to enable the zonal Railways tb redress the grievances of retired staff.

Along with its communication dated 08/09/2018, Federation also enclosed copies of Western Railway and Sourh Central Railway's letters dated 06/07/2018 & 10/08/2018 wherein specific difficulties/problems faced by the zonal Railways were highlighted’ Federation feels disappointed that though a period of more than two months passed, neither.rectification in the software ARPAN has bleen don. no, Federation apprised of steps taken to mitigate problem.

While enclosing copy of Federation's letter dated 08/0912018 (together with enclosures), NFIR once again requested Railway Board to kindly intervene to see that rectification in the software is ensured soon. Federation may please be apprised of the action taken in the matter.

Yours faithfully,
sd/-
(Dr.M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Provision of GP 42001- in PB-2/Level 6 of 7th CPC to the Dressers/OT Assistants working in Railway Hospitals/Health Units

Provision of GP 42001- in PB-2/Level 6 of 7th CPC to the Dressers/OT Assistants working in Railway Hospitals/Health Units

NFIR

No. IV/NFIR/ 7th CPC(Imp)/2016/R.B/Part II

Dated: 24/10/2018

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: Provision of GP 42001- in PB-2/Level 6 of 7th CPC to the Dressers/OT Assistants working in Railway Hospitals/Health Units - reg.

Ref: (i) NFIR's PNM IItem No. 11/2017.
(ii) NFIR's letter No.IV/NFIR/7th CPC (Imp)/2016/R.B./Part I dated 07108/2017.
(iii) NFIR's letter No. IVNFIR/7th CPC (Imp)/2016/R.B./Part II dated 12/03/20l8.
(iv) Railway Board's letter No. PC-VII/2016/R-U/35 dated 19/04/2018 addressed to GS/NFIR duly enclosing copy of Railway Board's O.M. No. PC-VII/2016/R-U/35 dated 12/04/2017sent to (Dep of Exp).

Kind attention of the Railway Board is invited to the minutes of NFIR's PNM meeting held with the Railway Board on l0th/1lth May,2018, pertaining to Agenda Item No. 1812018, wherein the Official Side conveyed that after finalization of revision of entry pay of Dressers (proposal presently being pursued with MoF), this demand can be looked into. Though five months passed, unfortunately no progress has been made relating to grant of entry pay of GP 2000/Level-3 in respect of Dressers/OT Assistants working in the Railway Hospitals/Health Units.

In this connection, Federation desires to bring to the notice of Railway Board that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, (the nodal Ministry), has since approved restructuring of the cadre of Operation Theatre in one of the Hospitals vide letter No. V-17020118912018-INI-II dated 7th September, 2018 as follows:-

(i) OT Technician: Entry Level Scale of Pay (PB-2+GP 4200/Pay Matrix Level-6).
(ii) Sr. Technician OT (on promotion from GP 4200) to be placed in PB-2+GP 4600.
(iii) Sr. Technician OT is eligible for promotion as Technical Officer (OT) in PB-2+GP 5400. (iv) The Technical Officer (OT) GP 5400 is eligible for promotion as Sr. Technical Officer (OT) in PB-3+GP 6600.

Federation suggests that the Railway Board may consult the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for formulating structure for allotment of GP 4200 in favour of Dressers/OT Assistants.
NFIR, therefore, requests the Railway Board to take necessary action at the level of Ministry of
Health & Family Welfare.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Reckoning service for entitlement of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes

Reckoning service for entitlement of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes

NFIR

No. I/15/Part III

Dated: 03/10/2018

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Reckoning service for entitlement of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes-reg.

Ref: (i) NFIR's PNM Item No. 06/2016.
(ii) Board's letter No. E(W)2006/PS5-1/28 dated 18/04/2007 & 08/05/2008.
(iii) Board's letter No. E(W)2013/PS5-1/7 dated 16/12/2013.
(iv) Board's letter No. E(W)2013/PS5-1/28 dated 12/03/2014.
(v) Board's letter No. E(W)2016/PS5-8/2 dated 19/04/2018.
(vi) NFIR's letter No. I/15/Part III dated 06/07/2018 & 17/08/2018.

Kind attention of Railway Board is invited to Federation's demand contained in Agenda Item No. 06/2016, wherein it was requested to restore previous instructions issued under Railway Board's letter dated 18/04/2007 facilitating the benefit of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes to ex-servicemen working in the Railways duly respecting the announcement of Hon'ble MR on the floor of the House during the course of presentation of Rail Budget 2007-2008. Though the Railway Board have issued instructions vide letter dated 19/04/2018, unfortunately these are not being implemented on Zonal Railways etc., on the pretext that such staff have not completed 20 years service or more in the Railways. In this connection, Federation vide its letter dated 17/08/2018, cited the specific case of North Western Railway, unfortunately no instructions have been issued though discussions were held by General Secretary, NFIR with ED(IR) on 3rd July, 2018. Thereafter a period of over two months has passed, unfortunately instructions duly modifying Board’s letter dated 19/04/2018 are yet to be issued.

NFIR, therefore, requests the Railway Board to issue clarification duly amplifying the instructions issued vide letter dated 19/04/2018 to facilitate the ex-servicemen or Central Government employees joined Railways, to avail the benefit of Post Retirement Complimentary Passes on the basis of length of service in Railways and in the previous Central Government Organization. A copy of the instructions issued may be endorsed to the Federation.

Yours faithfully

(Dr. M. Raghavaiah),
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Non-redressal of issues discussed by the Federations - Grant of regular absorption of staff working in Quasi Administrative Offices/Units in the erstwhile Group 'D' posts

Non-redressal of issues discussed by the Federations - Grant of regular absorption of staff working in Quasi Administrative Offices/Units in the erstwhile Group 'D' posts

NFIR
National Federation of Indian Railwaymen
3, Chelmsford Road, New Delhi - 110055
Affiliated to:
Indian Natinal Trade Union Congress (INTUC)
International Transport Workers’Federation (ITF)

No.II/1B/2018

Dated: 24/09/2018

The Chairman,
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Non-redressal of issues discussed by the Federations - Grant of regular absorption of staff working in Quasi Administrative Offices/Units in the erstwhile Group 'D' posts - reg.

Ref: Federations Joint letters No.II/IB dated 09/05/2016 & I5/05/20I7 to CRB.

Federations have repeatedly been inviting kind attention of the Railway Board at all levels including at the level of Hon'ble MR, CRB to the DC/JCM item No.27/2006, urging decision for absorption of staff working in the Quasi Administrative Office/Units against erstwhile Group 'D' vacancies since long.

The subject was also discussed by NFIR and AIRF in full Board meetings held on 07/02/2014, 01/10/2015 and 04/02/2016. Federations are deeply disappointed that though years passed, the issue is still pending unresolved. The Federations Joint communications to the Railway Board Chairman vide letters dated 09/05/2016 and 15/05/2017 have unfortunately not yielded positive result.

The Federations have re-iterated through joint letter dated 09/05/201, the justification for restoration of the earlier policy formulated in the year 1973 & 1977 to facilitate regular absorption of staff working in Quasi Administrative Offices/Units. The Federations had sent another letter dated 15/05/2017 requesting to arrange a meeting at the level of Hon'ble MR and CRB, unfortunately no meeting has been convened as yet. Federations desire to state that 12 valid points were conveyed to the Railway Board on the legal opinion tendered by the Learned ASG relating in this particular case, but however there has been no positive response yet. Federations once again enclose a copy of 12 points for consideration at the level of Railway Ministry which we feel are sufficient to keep the policy alive. The subject was also highlighted by the Federations during. Standing Committee Meetings held between the Federations and the Railway Board (MS, DG/P etc.) on 7th Feb, 2018, 4th April, 2018 without any positive result which is unfortunate

The Federations also reiterate that the decision of Railway Board vide dated 10/06/1997 was arbitrary as the same was issued without consultations with us which amounts to breach of agreement reached with the Federations during previous periods.

We therefore requests the CRB again to kindly intervene and see that a meeting takes place at your level early to settle this long pending issue besides other issues where agreements have been reached but not implemented so far. Alternatively we suggest a special meeting with Hon'ble Railway Minister early.

Yours faithfully

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
General Secretary/AIRF

(Dr.M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary/NFIR

Source: NFIR

Incidents of violent attacks on Railway employees in the course of performing their duties

Incidents of violent attacks on Railway employees in the course of performing their duties

NFIR

No. II/34/2018-Part I

Dated: 19/09/2018

The Chairman,
Railway Board,
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
Sub: Incidents of violent attacks on Railway employees in the course of performing their duties-reg.

Of late, it is noticed that the Railway employees are becoming targets of physical attacks by the unruly people/antisocial elements. In this connection, NFIR cites the case of recent physical attack on Travelling Ticket Examiner of S.C. Railway (Secunderabad Division) by a group of people who are habituated of travelling unauthorizedly and threatening on duty staff. It has further been reported that three persons have attacked the Gate Keeper (Track Maintainer) at Level Crossing Gate on Northern Railway and chopped off his left arm on 17th September, 2018. Similar attacks on staff were also reported from different places and no adequate action has been taken by the concerned Law & Order Authorities to deter the miscreants.

The Railway Staff who perform duties in the field and at remote places are developing constant fear of criminal attacks on them by the miscreants. In order to maintain the morale of staff, it would be necessary to urge upon the concerned high level authorities who are accountable for maintaining Law & Order situation to take effective measures. So far as Level Crossing Gates are concerned, provision of CCTV cameras may be considered seriously to facilitate detecting the culprits for further action.

NFIR, therefore, requests the Railway Board to kindly see that concrete steps are taken to protect the Railway Staff working in the field and in the remote sections of the Railway system. Federation may please be kept advised of action being taken by the Railway Board early.

Yours faithfully
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Revision of flat rate of license fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation in Railways w.e.f. 01/07/2010, 01/07/2013, and 01/07/2016

Revision of flat rate of license fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation in Railways w.e.f. 01/07/2010, 01/07/2013, and 01/07/2016

NFIR

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen

No.II/23/Part III

Dated: 11/09/2018

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board.
New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: Revision of flat rate of license fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation in 
Railways w.e.f. 01/07/2010, 01/07/2013, and 01/07/2016-reg.

Ref: (i) Railway Board's letter No. F(X)I-2002/11/2 dated 26/2/2017.
(ii) NFIR's letter No. II/23/Part III dated 12/03/2018.
(iii) Railway Board's reply vide No. F(X)I-2002/11/2 dated 09/05/2018 addressed to GS/NFIR.
(iv) NFIR's PNM Agenda Item No.18 sent to Railway Board on 26/06/2018.

Federation desires to invite kind attention of Railway Board to the letter dated 26/12/2017 wherein instructions have been issued for revision of flat rate of license fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation in Railways with retrospective effect i.e. 01/07/2010, 01/07/2013, and 01/07/2016. Federation expresses its anguish over non-appreciation of ground reality highlighted by the Federation vide its letter dated 12/03/2018 for taking remedial action and instead, sent reply vide letter dated 09/05/2018 that the revision in the flat rate of license fee is based on the pattern of Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Due to this negative approach, the Federation was compelled to raise the issue vide PNM Agenda Item No. 18 (sent to Railway Board on 26/06/2018), but unfortunately, instructions have not been modified yet.

Besides above, the Federation desires to convey to the Railway Board that the reports are received from the NFIR affiliated Unions that though outstanding dues towards office rent, electricity, telephone and water charges have already been cleared by the affiliates, the Divisional Administrations have raised bills for payment arrears towards rentals of office accommodation from 01/07/2010 to 30/06/2013, 01/07/2013 to 30/06/2016 and 01/07/2016 to 31/03/2018. While the Board's instructions dated 26/12/2017 are unjustified, the action of Railway Administration, demanding payment of arrears on account of Office rent of the accommodations in possession of the affiliated Unions is totally wrong.

As the subject has already been taken up by the Federation in the PNM fora at Board's level, it is urged that the instructions dated26/12/2017 be kept in abeyance or withdrawn.

Yours faithfully,
(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Filling up of vacancies on the Railways.

Filling up of vacancies on the Railways.

---

NFIR

---

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
{RAILWAY BOARD}

RBE No. 119/2018
No. E(NG)II / 2018/RR-1/22

New Delhi, dated 20.08.2018

The General Manager (p),
All Zonal Railways/ Production Units,
(As per standard mailing list).

Sub: Filling up of vacancies on the Railways.

Attention is invited to instructions contained in Board's letter no. E(NG)II/2007/RR-1/10/Pt.(110865) dated 25.06.2014 specifying the carious factors which must be taken into account while computing vacancies for placing indents. It was inter alia mentioned therin that staff likely to go on transfer to other Railways/Divisions in a particular calendar year must also be accounted for in the pool of vacancies while placing indents with the Recruiting Agencies.

It has been observed that large number of applications for Inter Railway transfers are pending on Railways. Such transferd have a direct bearing on railway working, especially in terms of manspower because of huge gap between outflow and inflow of staff.

It is, therefore, reiterated that while placing indents for fresh recruitment notifications in future the computation done duly of vacancies must be done duly taking.into account all the pending requests of Inter-Railway transfers. For this purpose, requests forwarded to the recipient Railway/Division as on the cut off date of assessment of vacancies should be regarded as pending requests. Action may be taken accordingly henceforth.

Please acknowledge receipt.

(M.M.Rai)
Jt.Director/E(NG)II
Railway Board

Source: NFIR

Grant of financial upgradation under ACP & MACP schemes for the central Government Civilian Employees including Railway employees

NFIR

Grant of financial upgradation under ACP & MACP schemes for the central Government Civilian Employees including Railway employees
No. IV/MACPs/09/part II

Dated: 21/08/2018

The Secretary / DoP&T
(Department of personnel PG & pension),
Department of personnel & Training,
North Block,
New Delhi.

Dear Sir,

Sub: Grant of financial upgradation under ACP & MACP schemes for the central Government Civilian Employees including Railway employees - reg.

Ref: (i)  Dop&T oM No.35034/1/97-Estt (D) dated 09/08/1999.
        (ii) Dop&T oM No.35034/3/2008-Estt (D) dated 19/05/2009.

NFIR invites kind attention to the OM dated 09/08/1999 wherein the Government of India (DoP&T) had introduced 'Assured career Progression Scheme' (ACPs) for the central Government civilian Employees pursuant to the recommendation of 5th central pay commission. The ACP Scheme was made effective in the Central Government departments from 1999. The ACP Scheme remained functional until 31/08/2008 (as clarified by the DoP&T vide para 9 its OM dated 19/05/2009) due to the fact that the 'Modified Assured Carrer Progression Scheme' was introduced by the DoP&T, replacing ACPS w.e.f. 01/09/2008, pursuant to the recommendations of 6th CPC.
The Federation has however been receiving representations from the Central Government civilian Employees, mainly railway employees from all corners of the country to make the MACP Scheme operational w.e.f. 01/01/2006
01/01/2006 instead from 0l/09/2008, pursuant to the order dated 08th December, 2017 passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court in Civil Appeal Diary No.3744 of 2016. In this connection, NFIR places following facts for consideration:-

• on perusal of the order of the Apex court, it is found that the Hon'ble Apex court has held that the MACP is a part of pay structure recommended by the 6th CPC, the same cannot be considerd as allowance which had been given effect from 01/09/2008. The said order has also cited the Resolution dated 30/08/2008 of the Government which was referred in the notification issued by the Ministry of Finance wherein MACP has been defined part of 'Pay structure' and not as 'Allowance' and therefore should be given effect from 01/01/2006.
• The order dated 8th Dec 2017 passed by the Apex court has already been implemented by the Ministry of Defence, giving effect to the MACPs w.e.f.01/01/2006 through an OM dated 25/07/2018.
• DoP&T may kindly take note that in para 6.5.2 & 6.5.4 of the report of 6th CPC, the Commission had recommended for implementation of the revised pay structure consisting of Pay Band and Grade Pay w.e.f. 01/01/2006 while the revised allowances were given effect from prospective date i.e. 01/09/2008.
• Ministry of Finance vide Gazette of India, Extraordinary Notification of Resolution No. 1/1/2008-IC dated 29/08/2008 had implemented revised pay structure (Pay Band & Grade Pay) w.e.f. 01/01/2006 whereas the implementation of MACPS was made effective from 0110912008, Accordingly, Ministry of Railways also implemented revised Pay structure w.e.f. 01/01/2006 vide its order dated 04/09/2008 while the rates of Non Practicing Allowance (NPA) were revised w.e.f. 01/01/2006 vide Board's order dated 22/09/2008. Therefore, the MACPS which is part of Pay structure as decided by Apex Court should be given effect from 01/01/2006 in railways and all other Central Government departments.
• Another important fact which cannot be ignored is, that the Apex Court had held that the benefit of ACP granted to an employee is part of the Pay structure which not only affects the pay but also pension of the employee, therefore, decided that the ACP is not allowance but a part of pay. At the same time, the Hon'ble Supreme Court further held that there can be no dispute that grant of ACP is part of pay structure and that the resolution dated 30/08/2008 relating to implementation of 6th CPC recommendations on pay structure, pay bands, grade pay etc have been given effect from 0110112006 and also added that this is the decision of the Cabinet which could not have been modified by issuing executive instructions.
• NFIR suggests that while issuing modified instructions, in compliance with Apex Court order, the DoP&T may allow option opportunity to all those beneficiaries of ACPS as well MACPS to exercise their option for financial upgradation from the dates advantageous to them so as to avoid further grievances.
• Summing up, NFIR urges upon the DoP&T to kindly consider the above points and issue modified instructions for granting financial upgradation under MACPS with effect from 01/01/2006 as was done by the Ministry of Defence. A copy of the instructions issued may be endorsed to this Federation.

Yours faithfully,

(Dr.M.Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Revision of rates of Daily Allowance (T.A.) to Railway employees on tour - Reimbursement of Hotel charges when no rest house facility made available

Revision of rates of Daily Allowance (T.A.) to Railway employees on tour - Reimbursement of Hotel charges when no rest house facility made available

NFIR

No. I/5 (F)

Dated: 20/08/2018

The Secretary (E),
Railway Board.
New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: Revision of rates of Daily Allowance (T.A.) to Railway employees on tour - Reimbursement of Hotel charges when no rest house facility made available-reg.

Ref: (i) Railway Board's letter No. F(E)1/2017/AL-28/40 dated 08/08/2017(PC-VII-31 & RBE No. 84/2017).
(ii) Railway Board's letter No. F(E)I/2017/AL-28/41 dated 24/08/2017(PC-VII-45 & RBE No. 103/2017).
(iii) NFIR's letter No.1/5 (F) dated 22/06/2018.
(iv) Railway Board's letter No.F(E)l/2017/AL-28/40 dated 31/07/2018.

While appreciating the prompt reply of the Railway Board not agreeing with the proposal made by the Federation through its letter dated 22/6/2018, NFIR reiterates again the following facts:

• There are many places where there is no rest house at all,
• Wherever there are rest houses for subordinate staff, their accommodation is totally inadequate and the employees do not get even Cot/Bed,
• The condition of rest houses is very bad so much so, the bed sheets, pillow covers etc., are not even washed regularly (i.e. the condition is unhygienic),
• Mattresses in the rest houses are very dirty and not fit for use.

The Railway Board's contention for denying the legitimate entitlement, citing 7th CPC recommendation and Government of India’s approval thereon is not only illogical but also highly improper. It needs to be appreciated that when employee is ordered to undertake tour on duty, he is rightly entitled for facilities as well Daily Allowance / Travelling Allowance. The case cited by NFIR is that in those cases where the staff proceed on duty to other places where the rest house facility is not available or condition of rest house is so bad that no human being can live, in such situations the reimbursement of hotel charges has to be ensured by the employer. Therefore the simple reply in one paragraph given by the Railway Board not agreeing the legitimate demand of NFIR is unacceptable to the Federation and we surmise that the Railway Board never wanted to take the ground situation into consideration for extending legitimate benefit to the staff. It is also unfortunate that while the Central Government has allowed reimbursement charges towards hotel accommodation to its employees when they undertake tour on duty, the Railway Board is unwilling to adopt Government of India’s rules probably with an intention to deny the legitimate benefit%to railwaymen deliberately.

Federation therefore urges upon the Railway Board to review the matter with judicious intention and issue instructions to the GMs etc., for ensuring reimbursement of accommodation/rest house/hotel charges in those cases where the resting facilities or either inadequate or not provided or not available.

Yours Faithfully

(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)
General Secretary

Source: NFIR

Representation of NFIR regarding upgradation of pay structure of JEs/SSEs

Representation of NFIR regarding upgradation of pay structure of JEs/SSEs

NFIR

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(RAILWAY BOARD)

No. PC-VII/20151R-U19 (Part.)

New Delhi, dated: 06/08/2018

To
The General Secretary,
National Federation of Indian Railwaymen
3, Chelmsford Road,  New Delhi - 55.

Sub: Representation of NFIR regarding upgradation of pay structure of JEs/SSEs.

Ref: NFIR's letter No. IV/NFIR/7 CPC(Imp)2017/R.B - Part. II dated 23.07.2018.

Please refer to NFIR's representation dated 23.07.2018 addressed to Hon'ble MR requesting intervention of Hon'ble for obtaining approval of Ministry of Finance (MoF) for upgradation GP-4600 to GP-4800.

2. With respect to above, it is stated that Railway Board have been making persistent efforts with various levels for obtaining approval of proposal sent MoF vide Board's OM dated 08.02.2017 proposing revision of pay structure of Sr.Supervisors in Group 'C' of all departments (other than Account Department) to upgrade 75% of such Supervisor posts from Level-7 (erstwhile GP-4600) to Level-8 (erstwhile GP - 4800) and to bring parity in the pay scales of Group 13 Officers Accounts/Non-Accounts department.

3. It has already been intimated to NFIR through ATS on PNM-NFIR Item Nos. 3 & 10/2018 that a D.O. letter dated 20.04.2017 was sent from Hon'ble MR to Hon'ble FM for expediting approval on above proposal. Thereafter, a reminder dated 15.05.2018 from EDPC-­II to JS(Pers)/MoF was also sent in this connection. Recently, a D.O. letter dated 13.07.2018 (Annex-I) from Board (CRB) to Finance Secretary has also been sent requesting them to expedite approval on Board's proposal dated 08.02.2017.

For Secretary,
Railway Board

Source: NFIR

Rectification of MACPS Anomalies - Stepping up of pay of Senior incumbents at par with Juniors - Case of Railway Accounts Department

Rectification of MACPS Anomalies - Stepping up of pay of Senior incumbents at par with Juniors - Case of Railway Accounts Department

NFIR

No.IV/NFIR/7 CPC (Imp)/2016/R.B. -Part II

Dated: 25/06/2018

The Secretary,
Department of Personnel & Training, (Establishment Division)
North Block,
New Delhi-110001

Dear Sir,
Sub: Rectification of MACPS Anomalies - Stepping up of pay of Senior incumbents at par with Juniors - Case of Railway Accounts Department-reg.

The above subject has been taken up by the National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR), a recognized Federation of Railway employees, in the Permanent Negotiating Machinery (PNM) fora with the Railway Ministry. In the last meeting held between the Railway Board Members and the Federation on 17/05/2016, following agreement was recorded :-

"It was explained to the Federation that the 7th CPC have addressed this issue in one of their recommendations. Therefore, we may await for the final outcome on the 7th CPC recommendations. If their recommendation is accepted by the Government, past cases of similar nature may be examined accordingly. The General Secretary/NFIR requested to see that injustice done to the Senior qualified staff is removed duly granting them the benefit of GP 5400/-."

Federation has since learnt that case file bearing No. PCV/2016/MACPS1(Pt1) dealing with the above subject has been sent by the Railway Ministry to the DoP&T to obtain NOC and has been pending since long period. The delay in granting NOC is causing frustration and resentment among the staff of Accounts Department on the Railways.

NFIR, therefore, requests the Secretary/DoP&T to kindly see that clearance from DoP&T to implement the recommendation of 7th Central Pay Commission is granted to the Railway Ministry soon.

Federation may please be kept advised of the action taken in the matter.

Yours faithfully

S/d,

(Dr. M. Raghavaiah)

General Secretary &

Leader Staff Side (JCM)

Source : NFIR