Latest 7th Pay Commission News

All India Protest day on 12.10.2018 – AIRF

LARSGESS Termination Suspend – Railway Board Orders

Termination of LARSGESS Scheme – Railway Board to suspend the orders(RBE 151/2018) on LARSGESS

Great Victory! – Com. Shiva Gopal Mishra made Railway Board to suspend draconian orders on LARSGESS – Railway Board has issued orders RBE 151/2018 in this regard!

Dear Comrades,

As a result of General Secretary AIRF’s untiring efforts and his discussions today, i.e. 28.09.2018, with the Chairman and Member Staff, Railway Board, Railway Board vide their letter No.E(P&A)I-2015/RT-43 dated 28.09.2018(RBE No.151/2018)(copy enclosed) have issued amended letter to the General Managers of All Indian Railways, superseding their earlier letter of even number dated 26.09.2018(RBE No.150/2018.]

Meeting of AIRF to discuss promotional prospects of staff, particularly in GP Rs.1800 and Rs.4600

All India Railwaymen’s Federation

4, State Entry Road, New Delhi – 110055

No.AIRF/24(C)

Dated: September 26, 2018

The General Secretaries,

All Affiliated Unions

Dear Comrades,

Sub: Meeting of AIRF to discuss promotional prospects of staff, particularly in GP Rs.1800 and Rs.4600

Meeting on the subject cited above was held in the chamber of DG(Personal), Railway Board, today.

After detailed deliberations; the following decisions were arrived:-

(a) There will not be any recruitment in GP Rs.4600 in any category except Medical Department.

(b) The condition of direct recruitment to at least 25% or more in respective categories for holding GDCE will be done away.

(c) Board orders permitting GMs to hold GDCEs up to 50% of DR Quota will be further enhanced up to 75%, keeping in view the serious frustrations in serving employees having higher academic/technical qualifications so as to enhance their promotional prospects on similar parameters of Direct Recruitment in higher categories.

(d) On the issue of career progression of the SSEs, though AIRF insisted for timebound promotion for JEs and SSEs, the administration agreed to pursue the matter, providing 75% upgradation of staff in GP Rs.4600 to Rs. 4800.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

Source: AIRF

Wrong Analysis and recommendations about NDA under 7th CPC report

Board’s attention is invited towards this federation’s letter of even number dated 2nd April, 2018 (copy enclosed), vide which it was pointed out that, on implementation of new formula, recommended by the VII CPC, rates of Night Duty Allowance get reduced rather than any improvement therein……

Dated: September 17, 2018

Sub: Wrong Analysis and recommendations about NDA under 7th CPC report

Ref.: (i) Report of 7th CPC(Para 8.17.71 to 77) reg. Night Duty Allowance

(ii) RBE No.61/2016(Last NDA Rate of 6th CPC when DA at 125%)

(iii) RBE No.36/2018 No.E(P&A)II-2017/HW-1 dated 08.03.2018

Board’s attention is invited towards this federation’s letter of even number dated 2nd April, 2018 (copy enclosed), vide which it was pointed out that, on implementation of new formula, recommended by the VII CPC, rates of Night Duty Allowance get reduced rather than any improvement therein.

A calculation table was also appended in our letter referred to above, explaining the actual reduction in Night Duty Allowance on implementation of current formula, recommended by the VII CPC, which we are again quoting hereunder for ready reference:-

Rates of Night Duty Allowance, as per 6th CPC formula (mean value of Pay Band + GP) + DA)/215, changed by the 7th CPC, i.e. (Basic Pay + DA)/200, will decline by 20% to 40% from the existing, i.e.

Also rates of the NDA were not declared by the Railway Board on 01.07.2016 and 01.01.2017 as per 6th CPC.

It is, therefore, reiterated that, the issue may be looked into afresh in the light of the foregoing, and improvement in the formula, recommended by the VII CPC, may be done, so that, rates of Night Duty Allowance get improved rather than any reduction therein.

This may kindly be treated as “Most Urgent” as there is serious discontentment brewing among the staff, particularly Running and Traffic Staff and other Safety Categories Staff who have to invariably perform night duty.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Clarifications regarding payment of Breakdown Allowance – RBE 138/2018

“Technician Gr.III though drawing pay in higher pay level under MACPS are entitled for Breakdown Allowance at the rates prescribed for the post held by them”

RBE 138/2018

RBE No.138/2018

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

No.E(P&A)II-2017/BDA-l

New Delhi, dated 14.09.2018

The General Mangers/OSDs/ CAOs,

All Indian Railways & Production Units.

(As per mailing list)

Sub: Clarifications regarding payment of Breakdown Allowance.

Ref:- Board’s letter of even number dated 30.08.2017 (RBE No.1 06/ 2017)

In context of Board’s letter cited above. references hove been received in Board’s office from some Zonal Railways. seeking clarifications regarding entitlement of Breakdown allowance to Technician Gr.III drawing pay in higher level i.e. Pay level 3 under MACPS rather than the pay level available for the post. The issue has also been raised by AIRF in PNM Forum as item No.15/2018 and NFIR in their letter dated 11.04.2018.

2. The matter has been examined in Board’s office and it has been observed that the MACP Scheme provides for grant of financial upgradation to the employees on personal basis and there occurs no change in the designation. classification or status. The concerned employees continue to discharge the duties and responsibilities of the post held by them. In view of this it is clarified that the Breakdown Allowance has lo be paid at the rate(s) as prescribed against the respective post mentioned in para- l of Board’s letter dt. 30.08.2017. Accordingly, Technician Gr.III though drawing pay in higher pay level under MACPS are entitled for Breakdown Allowance at the rates prescribed for the post held by them.

3. The other terms and conditions relating to Breakdown Allowance will remain the some.

4. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

5. Please acknowledge receipt.

(N.P.Singh)

Joint Director/ Estt.(P&A).

Railway Board

Source: AIRF

Revision of rates of Running Allowance and Incentive Bonus

Inordinate delay in revision of rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff and Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus to Maintenance Workshops and Production Units Staff over the Indian Railways

No.AIRF/24(C)

Dated: August 28, 2018

The Chairman,

Railway Board,

New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: Inordinate delay in revision of rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff and Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus to Maintenance Workshops and Production Units Staff over the Indian Railways

Your kind attention is invited towards the above subject matter. It may be recalled that, revision of rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff is pending for quite a long time. This issue has been deliberated at length several times with Railway Board officials as also with Hon’ble MR; besides your goodself, and despite several assurances from the highest level no fruitful result has emerged as yet. There is serious discontentment and resentment brewing among the Running Staff on account of such an inordinate delay in revision of rates of this allowance. It would not be out of context to mention here that, on previous occasions quick action used to be taken by the Railway Board to revise the rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff after implementation of reports of the successive Pay Commissions, but this time it is quite unfortunate that, so much time is being taken in settling the genuine issue without any valid reason.

Similarly, Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus also used to be revised on every occasion after implementation of recommendations of the successive Pay Commissions. Last time also Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus were revised w.e.f. 2009. It would not be out of place to point out here that, last meeting with the committee, constituted to revise Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus, was held on 18th July, 2018, but despite elapse of substantial time, nothing appears to have been done in this regard till date, for which lot of discontentment is prevailing among the employees of Production Units and Maintenance Workshops over the Indian Railways.

AIRF, therefore, desires that, necessary action be taken on the above issues to revise the rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff as also Hourly Rates of Incentive Bonus to the employees of Production Units and Maintenance Workshops over the Indian Railways with retrospective effect, allowing payment of consequential arrear etc., keeping in view the discontentment prevailing among these vulnerable categories of the Railway Staff.

An early action in the matter shall be highly appreciated.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Source: AIRF

Procedure for Direct Recruitment in Level-1 (7th CPC pay matrix)

Direct recruitment from open market in Level-1 (7th CPC pay matrix) – Procedure-regarding

RBE No. 102/2018

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

No. E(NG)II/2008/RR-I/33 (3010339)

RBE No. 102/2018

New Delhi, dated 18.07.2018

The General Manager (P),

All Zonal Railways/Production Units,

(As per standard mailing list).

Sub: Direct recruitment from open market in Level-1 (7th CPC pay matrix) – Procedure-regarding.

The non-materialization of full panel despite all out efforts made by the Railway recruiting agencies has been engaging the attention of the Board. Accordingly, the procedure for recruitment from open market in Level-1 was reviewed and following decisions taken with respect to different instructions issued from time to time:-

i) Para I (ii) of instructions contained under RBE No. 138/2014 dated 10.12.2014 lays down that “the number of candidates called for Physical Efficiency Test (PET) should be 02 (two) times the number vacancies”.

In modification of above, the number of candidates to be called for PET should now be 03 (three) times the number notified vacancies.

ii) Para 3 of instructions contained in RBE No. 73/2008 dated 17.06.2008 lays down that “the number of candidates called for Document Verification (DV) shall be 20% over & above the number of vacancies”.

In modification of above, henceforth, the number of candidates to be called for DV shall be twice the number of notified vacancies.

iii) Para 2 of instructions contained in RBE No. 06/2014 dated 10.01.2014 stipulates that “no replacement panels are to be given against non-joining of selected candidates”.

In modification of the above, it has been decided that the panel will now be formed to the extent of the notified vacancies with a standby panel of 50% of the notified vacancies. In case the main panel plus stand-by is also exhausted and still there is a shortfall vis-à-vis notified vacancies, the recruiting agency may further go down in the list of candidates which meet the requirement of minimum qualifying marks in their respective community for conducting PET(If needed) and DV/ME to the extent of shortfall community-wise. This may be done till the demand from the concerned Railway administration w.r.t indent placed and vacancies notified is fully met. These provisions shall be subject to currency of the panel.

2. The above guidelines will also be applicable to recruitment notification published under centralized Employment Notice No. 02/2018, issued by Railway Recruitment Boards.

Please acknowledge receipt.

sd/-

(Neeraj Kumar)

Dir. Estt.(N)-II

Railway Board

Source: AIRF

• 7th CPC Pay Matrix Chart for Level 6 to 9 (GP 4200 to 5400)
• 7th CPC Pay Matrix Chart for Level 10 to 12 (GP 5400 to 7600)
• 7th CPC Pay Matrix Chart for Level 13 to 14 (GP 8700 to 10000)
• AIRF - Granting promotion opportunity as JE against 25% intermediate Apprentice Quota
• Railway Board - Grant Of Over Time Allowance To Employees
• Railway Board - Air Travel Entitlements For Journeys On Tour Or Training
• Criteria Of Benchmarking For MACP – AIRF & NFIR

Granting promotion opportunity as JE against 25% intermediate Apprentice Quota

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

E(NG)I/2011/PM 717

New Delhi, dated: June 27.2018

The General Secretary,

All India Railwaymen Federation,

(AIRF) 4, State Entry Road,

New Delhi- 110055.

Sub: Granting promotion opportunity as JE against 25% intermediate Apprentice Quota to those Technicians initially appointed as Technician-III on compassionate grounds – (PNM/ AIRF Item No.25/2011 and PNM/NFIR Item No.38/2015- agenda sent to Railway Board on 11.06.2015) – reg.

The undersigned is directed to refer to Item No.25/2011 of PNMI AIRF and Item N0.38/2015 of PNM/NFIR on the above subject and to state that the matter has been further deliberated upon in the light of the last round of discussion with both the Federations in the respective PNMs. It may be recollected that while AIRF have expressed their reservation on Board’s proposal sent to both the Federations for comments vide letter of even number dated 16.03.2015, NFIR have completely rejected the same. In view of this, it was decided that Board’s proposal referred to above may be dropped and status-quo may be maintained. The Federation were informed accordingly vide letter of even number dated 28.03.2016.

It is felt that both the Federations should encourage those who are appointed on Compassionate Grounds as Trainee Artisans to appear in RDAT, so that they have a formal qualification, which would be better for their own future also.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

for Secretary/Railway Board

Source: AIRF

New Pension System (NPS) – NC JCM Staff Side

“Demand of the NC/JCM has always been to restore the “Defined Pension/Family Pension Scheme”

Shiva Gopal Mishra

Secretary

National Council (Staff Side)

Joint Consultative Machinery

for Central Government Employees

13-C, Ferozshah Road, New Delhi – 110001

E-Mail : nc.jcm.np@gmail.com

No.NC/JCM/2018

Dated: May 17, 2018

The Cabinet Seretary,

(Government of India),

Cabinet Secretariat,

Rashtrapati Bhawan,

New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: New Pension System (NPS)

As had been discussed with you previously, I met the Secretary (Pension), Government of India, who told me that, he had sent the recommendations to the Secretary (Financial Institution), Government of India, and henceforth whatever is required would be done by his department only.

Since this issue is of utmost importance, particularly to younger blood recruited after 01.01.2004 and they are in quite anguish, we hope, the staff covered under NPS must be given some relief, and as has been discussed many a times, the Government of India must provide Guaranteed Pension/Family Pension Scheme where at least they should be able to draw 50% of their wages at the last pay drawn.

It has been observed that in all the countries where such scheme is in prevalent, the government is paying much more contribution, and in case of any market failure the same is covered by different government Social Security Schemes. The demand of the NC/JCM has always been to restore the “Defined Pension/Family Pension Scheme”.

We hope that, the government will consider the demand of the NC/JCM (Staff Side) and relief will be given to the staff covered under NPS.

Sincerely yours,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

Secretary (Staff Side)

National Council (JCM)

Source: AIRF

Grant of OTA to Railway Employees Consequent upon Revision of Pay Scales and Allowances

“Grant of Overtime Allowance (OTA) to Railway employees Consequent upon revision of pay scales and allowances- date of effect”

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(Railway Board)

S.No. PC-VII/ 98

No.PC-V/2017/A/OTA/1

RBE No. 41/2018

New Delhi, dated 20.03.2018

The General Managers

All Indian Railways and Production Units.

(as per mailing list)

Sub: Grant of Overtime Allowance (OTA) to Railway employees Consequent upon revision of pay scales and allowances- date of effect.

Ref: Board’s letter of even No. dated 28-11-2017 (RBE No. 175/2017)

Pursuant to the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission, the rates of OTA have been revised w.e.f. 01-7-2017 vide Board’s letter of even number dated 28-11-2017 (RBE No.175/2017). The issue of revising the date of effect of OTA w.e.f. 01-01-2016 had been under consideration and it has been decided that the basic pay and DA element for the purpose of OTA may be antedated to 01-01-2016 and other elements constituting emoluments for the purpose of OTA viz. HRA and Transport allowance etc. shall be taken into account at revised rates w.e.f. 01-7-2017 as per the 7th CPC recommendations.

2. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

3. Hindi version is enclosed.

sd/-

(Subhankar Dutta)

Deputy Director, Pay Commission-V

Railway Board

Source: AIRF

Air Travel Entitlements for Journeys on Tour or Training

Air Travel entitlements for journeys on tour or training; revision of instructions reg – RBE 61/2018

RBE No.61/2018

Government of India/Bharat Sarkar

Ministry of Railways/Rail Mantralaya

(Railway Board)

RBE No.61/2018

New Delhi, dated 24.04.2018

No. F(E}I/2017/AL-28/41

General Manager,

All Indian Railways, PUs etc.

(As per Standard Mailing List}

Sub: Air Travel entitlements for journeys on tour or training; revision of instructions reg.

In partial modification of Board’s letters of even number dated 24.08.2017 & 25.09.2017 on the subject, it has been decided by Board to revise the Air Travel entitlements of railway officers for journeys on tour or training in the following manner:

A. Journeys by Air within the Country

2. Further, in partial modification of Board’s letter of even number dated 25.09.2017, it has also been decided by Board that grant of Air Travel permission to officers on Indian Railways, either one way or two way, may be approved personally by GMs of Railways with the prior personal concurrence of PFA.

3. As delegated vide para 22 of Board’s letter No. F(X)II-2015IPW17, dated 12.06.2017 of delegation of powers to GMs, these powers may be exercised personally by Chief Administrative Officer with the prior personal concurrence of PFA In case of COFMOW, New Delhi, DCWIPatiala and MTPI Chennai. ‘

4. The competent authority while approving Air Travel would apply his mind and consider whether the available train connectivity and time taken justifies the same. For example; while Delhi-Bangalore-Delhi may qualify for Air Travel, Delhi-Mumbai-Delhi can easily be covered by train comfortably. General Manager while using his discretion to permit one way or two way Air Travel may consider both the need of the journey and the urgency that necessitates Air Travel.

5. It may be ensured that permission for Air Travel is given judiciously and restricted only to absolutely essential official requirement that is recorded, subject to availability of budgetary provisions.

6. This has the approval of Board (FC & CRB).

7. These orders will take effect from the date of issue of this letter.

8. Please acknowledge receipt.

(Jitendra Kumar)

Dy. Director Finance (Estt.),

Railway Board.

Source: AIRF

LTC to Railway employees (and Government servants whose spouse are Railway Servants)

No.31011/1512017-Estt.A-IV

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Department of Personnel & Training

Establishment A-IV Desks are Railway servants)

North Block New Delhi

Dated March 27, 2018

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: LTC to Railway employees (and Government servants whose spouses are Railway servants)

The undersigned is directed to say that as per extant LTC instructions, Government servants and their spouses who are working in Indian Railways are not entitled for the facility of LTC as the facility of “Free Pass” is available to them. However, Seventh CPC in its report has recommended for bringing Railway employees (and employees whose spouses are Railway servants) into the fold of LTC.

2 The matter has been considered in this Department in consultation With Ministry of Railways. It has been decided that Railway employees may be allowed to avail All lndia LTC once in a block of four years under CCS(LTC) Rules, 1988, subject to the following conditions·

(i) The railway employees shall continue to be governed fully by the Railway Servants (Pass) Rules only and availing of “All India LTC” under CCS (LTC) Rules by them will be facilitated through a Special Order under the relevant provision of the said Pass Rules.

(ii) “All India LTC” will be purely optional for the railway employees.

(iii) Even after availing “All India LTC” in a year, it will not be mandatory for the railway employee to opt for “All India LTC” 1n the next or subsequent block years

(iv) No “Home Town LTC” will be admissible to Railway employees and on the same analogy, no Home Town converted LTC shall be allowed to them.

(v) The railway employees will surrender the Privilege Passes admissible to them In the calendar year in which they intend to avail the LTC facility. However they would continue to be eligible for Privilege Ticket Orders and other kinds of Passes viz., Duty Pass. School Pass, Special Passes on Medical grounds. etc., as admissible under the Pass rules. Further, if the railway employee has already availed of a Privilege Pass, then LTC will not be allowed in that year.

(vi) The railway employees on deputation to any other organization, Including Railway PSUs, would also continue to be eligible for optional LTC in lieu of Privilege Pass entitlement.

(vii) The definition of beneficiaries e g members of family, dependents etc. and other conditions as laid down in the CCS(L TC) rules will be applicable for availing ‘All India LTC” facility by the railway employees even if such beneficiaries are not entitled for Privilege Pass under the Pass Rules.

(viii) If both spouses are Railway employees then both will surrender admissible in the calendar year, if they opt for All India LTC.

(ix) In case of the Government employees whose spouse is working In Railways, want to avail All India LTC, either Independently or with family members, then he/she they may be allowed subject to the condition of surrendering privilege passes admissible in that calendar year for him/her/them and an undertaking in this regard shall be given by the Government servant to his office

3. Hindi version will follow.

sd/-

(Sanjiv Kumar)

Deputy Secretary to the Government of India

Source: AIRF

Criteria of Benchmarking for MACP – AIRF & NFIR

“The demand raised by both Federations e.g. AIRF & NFIR to this effect , Board have decided that the employees who had been awarded “Good” or below Grading their previous three years APARs (for years 2014-201 5, 2015-2016 a~d 2016-2017) may be given a chance, as a one time measure, to represent against the same within 30 days from communication of this order.”

Providing opportunity, for submitting representation, to the employees who have been awarded below “Very Good” Grading in their last three years’ APARs (for the purpose. of MACPs) – RBE No. 29/2018

RBE No. 29/2018

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ·

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

No. E(NG)I-2018/CR/2

New Delhi, dated 27.02.2018

The General Managers(P)

All Zonal Railways and Production Units.

(As per standard list).

Sub:- Providing opportunity, for submitting representation, to the employees who have been awarded below “Very Good” Grading in their last three years’ APARs (for the purpose. of MACPs)

As the. Railways ·are aware, based on recommendations of the 7thCPC, the benchmark for grant of MACPs benefit has been enhanced from “Good” to “Very Good” w.e.f. 25.07.2016, for which, three (03) years’ APARs are taken into consideration. The step has debarred certain number of staff from this financial upgradation.

2. Since the earlier “Good” benchmark for MACPs. was applicable upto 25.07.2016, the employee, having “Good” Grading in their APARs for the previous three years before 25.07.2016 may not have had a reason to represent against the Gradings given, as they met the then prescribed criteria of benchmarking for MACPs. Now since the benchmark for MACPs has been raised to “Very Good”, there seems a justification to allow the emplpyees having “Good” or below Grading for a period of three years’ APAR Grading immepiately preceding the cut off date ibid an opportunity to represent against the same.

3. Considering the above and the demand raised by both Federations e.g. AIRF & NFIR to this effect , Board have decided that the employees who had been awarded “Good” or below Grading their previous three years APARs (for years 2014-201 5, 2015-2016 a~d 2016-2017) may be given a chance, as a one time measure, to represent against the same within 30 days from communication of this order. The representation submitted by such employees may be considered and decided by the Accepting Authority and, in case where the accepting authority has demitted office for whatever the reason it may be, by the authority higher than accepting authority within a period of 30 days in term’s of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-91/CR/2 dated 10.06.1993. This dispensation ~as been made for the purpose of MACPs only and may be given wide publicity among the officials concerned.

Please acknowledge receipt.

Hindi version shall follow.

Deputy Director.Estt.(N)

Railway Board

Source: AIRF

Split Medical Card to Serving Railway Employees Covered by RMA Rules

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(RAILWAY BOARD)

New Delhi, dated 09.02.2018

In terms of provisions contained in Para 626 (1) of India Railway Medical Manual (IRMM) -2000, it is necessary to produce medical identity Card for availing of medical facilities in Railway Hospitals. It has been brought to the notice of Board that serving Railway employees/their eligible dependent family members find difficult to avail of medical facilities when one of the family member move out of station carrying Medical Identity Card provision for RELHS beneficiaries though exist vide letter under reference but no such facility existed for serving Railway Employees. The issue has, therefore, been examined and it has been decided to extend the facility of split Medical Card to serving Railway employees covered by RMA rules. Original Medical Identity Card may be deposited with the issuing authority who may issue split Medical Identity Card to the beneficiaries as requested by them. Issuing authority of Split Medical Card will be the office of controlling authority where the employee is working and the registering authority of Split card will be authorised Medical officer (AMO) of nearest Health Unit/Hospitals where the dependants are staying.

Mrs.H.K.Sanhotra

Dy.Director/H&FW

Railway Board

Charges against the Ticket Checking Staff – AIRF

D.O.No.AIRF/66

Dated: January 21, 2018

Dear Shri Sharma Ji!

Sub: Charges against the Ticket Checking Staff

Ref.: Your circular dated 19.01.2018

We are very much pained after going through your circular referred to above; alleging the Ticket Checking Staff about taking bribe from the general travelling public for accommodating them in the Sleeper Class.

I believe that, Hon’ble MR has not been properly briefed by the administration about the yeoman’s service rendered by the Ticket Checking Staff. In spite of their shortage, they are meeting every target fixed by the Railway Board as well as many a times they are forced by their local officers for such targets which are never possible to achieve, even then they are serving their valued passengers to a great satisfaction. There are orders from the Railway Board that, any passenger found unauthorizedly travelling should be issued ticket up to the next station and then he should be de-trained at the next station, but all the local CCMs are forcing the Ticket Checking Staff to charge them for farthest end to increase the earnings of the Railways. This is happening in blatant disobedience to Railway Board’s orders and the Ticket Checking Staff are forced to accommodate them in the Sleeper Class.

There might be some black sheep in the organization, and AIRF has always supported the administration to deal with these black sheep. They may be staff or officers, but issuing such instructions, demoralizing the Ticket Checking Staff, who are the bread earner of the Indian Railways, is very unfortunate.

It is very earnestly requested that, the above cited circular, issued by your goodself, should immediately be withdrawn, and any such activity, defaming the Ticket Checking Staff as a whole, will definitely not only demoralize them, but also result in industrial unrest. You are, therefore, requested to take action against the cuprites, but dealing every Ticket Checking Staff with the same stick will not only humiliate the Ticket Checking Staff, but also lead to serious agitations all over the Indian Railways.

Hope, you will take this matter seriously and give a healing touch to the Ticket Checking Staff who are much aggrieved and agitating all over the Indian Railways on this letter of yours.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiv Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Source: AIRF

Grant of MACP to the SOMs/Sr. PWSs of the Civil Engineering Department – AIRF

No.AIRF/MACPS

Dated: January 16, 2018

The EDPC-I,

Railway Board,

Metro Station Building,

Pragati Maidan,

New Delhi

Dear Sir,

Sub: Grant of MACP to the SOMs/Sr. PWSs of the Civil Engineering Department

Ref.: 

(i)AIRF’s PNM Item No.06/2012

(ii)Railway Board’s letter No.PC-III/2003/CRC/6 dated 09.10.2003(RBE No.177/2003)

(iii)Railway Board’s letter No.PC-III/2004/CRC/1(Pt.1)dt.22.03.07(RBE No.45/2007)

(iv)Railway Board’s letter No.PC-III/2004/CRC/1(Pt.1) dated 17.04.2007 addressed to AIRF

(v) Railway Board’s letter No.PC-V/2009/ACP/2 dated 10.06.2009(RBE No.101/2009)

(vi)Railway Board’s letter No.PC-III/2012/FE-II/2 dated 03.07.2013(RBE No.64/2013)

On demand of AIRF, on the basis of functional, operational and administrative requirements, restructuring of the Group `C’ & `D’ Cadres w.e.f. 01.09.2003 was notified by the Railway Board, covering detailed instructions vide its orders dated 09.10.2003. These instructions also covered multi-skilling of various grades/cadres of various departments of the Railways, viz. Transportation, Personnel, S&T, Stores, Ministries of all the Engineering Departments. Under Para 13(a) of the aforesaid letter of the Railway Board, all the posts of the Supervisors(erstwhile Ministries) in Grade Rs.4500/7000+Rs.100 as Special Allowance (excluding P. Way Supervisors) should en-block be upgraded to the post of Jr. Engineer Grade II in the pay scale Rs.5000-8000 and merged with the respective cadres of Technical Supervisors with its spread effects in the higher grades, i.e. Rs.5500-9000, 6500-10500 and 7450-11500 as per revised percentage, distribution of posts prescribed for Supervisors in these orders.

In case of Supervisors, the posts being held by the erstwhile PWMs was allowed this benefit up to a maximum of 17.26% of the sanctioned cadre of PWMs and was to be upgraded and merged with the posts of Jr. Engineer Grade-II(P. Way) in pay scale Rs.5000-8000 with its spread effects as extended to the other Mistries described in the foregoing para. These instructions of the Railway Board were implemented by all the Zonal Railways for the purpose of grant of restructuring benefits applicable w.e.f. 01.09.2003. Further, Railway Board vide its later orders dated 22.03.2007 abolished the category of PWMs by merging such Track Supervisors (erstwhile PWMs) working in scale Rs.4500-7000+Rs.100 as Special Allowance applicable to all those appointed prior to 01.11.2003 and introduced the category of Sr. PWS in scale Rs.5000-8000 with the terms and conditions mentioned in the Board’s letter referred under caption (iii) above. Accordingly, all Mistries of all departments, including SOMs and PWSs of the Civil Engineering Department, appointed prior to 01.11.2003, stood upgraded and merged with the Technical Supervisors, namely JE-II in pay scale Rs.5000-8000 with its spread effects in the higher grades. Ironically, no complaint was received, wherein aforementioned Cadre Restructuring orders with regard to the Ministries of all the department was allowed treating them merged with JE(II) GP Rs. 5000-8000 (RSRP). However, one case of the Ministries of S&T Department was referred by Northern Railway to the Railway Board for filing SLP against the orders passed by the Hon’ble CAT/NDLS and upheld by Hon’ble High Court of Delhi in WP(C) No.4601/2015 – Titled UoI & Ors. Versus Satyendra Kumar case of restructuring orders. Railway Board’s SLP in question, which was dismissed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India vide its orders dated 01.07.2016.

Now, it is a matter of great concern that various Zonal Railways, having allowed the benefits of MACP in compliance of Para 5 of Board’s orders dated 09.10.2003, are being challenged by the Associated Finance of the respective Zones/Divisions in cases of grant of MACP benefits to such Ministries, treating their grade of Rs.4500-7000 + Rs.100 as Special Allowance, upgraded to Rs.5000-8000 as merged grade for the purpose of MACP benefits. It has invited litigation in various Divisions and Zones on Indian Railways and Railway Administrations are allowing the benefit of MACP, so extended in compliance of Para 5 of Board’s letter dated 09.10.2003 to avoid contemptuous action, but those who are unable to pay huge legal expenses are suffering and lakhs of rupees are being recovered at the time of retirement of such SOMs/PWSs of the Civil Engineering Department. Railway Board vide their letter No.PC-III/2004/CRC/1(Pt.1) dated 17.04.2007, referred to above, had also clarified that Track Supervisors(erstwhile P. Way Ministries) in scale Rs.4500-7000 + (Rs.100 as Special Allowance), appointed prior and after 01.11.2003, are eligible for placement in the scale Rs.5000-8000, subject to the conditions mentioned in the Board’s letter dated 22.03.2007. Thus, there was no scope left for treating such Track Supervisors, merged/upgraded with JE-II pay scale Rs.5000-8000, after required financial implications were met out by the respective Divisions/Zones.

Moreover, it shall also be pertinent to mention that, there cannot be discriminatory view of the Railway Administration with regard to benefit of upgradation and merger of Ministries of various departments, including SOMs and PWSs, appointed before 01.11.2003, merged and upgraded with the JE-II pay scale Rs.5000-8000 well before issue of MACP orders dated 10.06.2009.

In view of the discussions in the foregoing paragraphs, it is demanded that a clarification immediately be issued to all the Zonal Railways that instructions contained under Para 5 of the Railway Board’s order issued under RBE No.101/2009 dated 10.06.2009, be implemented for SOMs and PWMs/Sr. PWSs to avoid hardships being faced to the affected Railwaymen and also to save time and money being spent in various courts on this ground.

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiv Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Source: AIRF

Brief of the meeting held today with Hon’ble Minister for Railways

A meeting between All India Railwaymen’s Federation(AIRF) and Hon’ble Minister for Railways, was held today, which was continued from 14:00 hrs. to 16:00 hrs. The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere.Item-wise discussion is stated below…….

 No.AIRF/24(C)

Dated:-  December 28, 2017

The General Secretaries,

All Affiliated Unions,

Sub: Brief of the meeting held today with Hon’ble Minister for Railways

A meeting between All India Railwaymen’s Federation(AIRF) and Hon’ble Minister for Railways, was held today, which was continued from 14:00 hrs. to 16:00 hrs. The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere.

Item-wise discussion is stated below:-

1. Proper Meetings – The issue was discussed threadbare. The MR assured that, he would meet the representatives of AIRF bi-monthly, and mostly on first Wednesday of the alternate month.

2. Safety – Regarding filling-up of vacancies, the MR assured that, 50% posts in Safety Categories would be filled-up within a period of six months. He also assured that, all steps would be taken to have branded materials/equipments. Training facilities would be streamlined. We have also raised the issue of creation of posts for additional train services and additional workload without insisting on “Matching Saving”. The Minister directed the Member Staff and Director General(Pers.), Railway Board, to make a brief and put-up the papers to him in next week. We have raised the matter of recruitment in the lowest grade Level 1. The MR assured that, the matter of recruitment of the local people region-wise would explored.

3. Seventh Central Pay Commission – The matter was discussed in detail. The Minister has advised the Member Staff to see how National Pension System(NPS) can be streamlined. The MR also promised that, he would raise the issues of Minimum Wage and Fitment Formula with the Finance Minister.

4. Grievances of the Running Staff – Regarding Allowances related to Running Staff and other grievances of the Running Staff , the MR advised the MS to expedite the matter.

5. Continuance of the LARSGESS all over, except jurisdiction of the respective High Courts – There was detailed discussion in respect of continuance of LARSGESS in the states where there is no embargo. The matter was discussed at length. Ultimately, the Minister advised the MS to see how best the cases, already processed, can be dealt with. He also directed the Railway Board to pursue the case in the Supreme Court and move an application for early hearing.

6. Absorption of the Course Completed Act Apprentices in the Railways – This issue was discussed at length. On our ultimate suggestion to de-link appointment of the Course Completed Act Apprentices from regular recruitments. The MR agreed to re-examine. He also asked the Board to enhance the quota for recruitment of the Act Apprentices for training.

7. Absorption of the quasi-administrative offices staff in the Railways – The matter was discussed at length. The Minister advised the MS to submit a brief in this regard.

8. Closure of the Railway Printing Presses – On the request of AIRF, the Minister has agreed to discuss the matter further.

9. Closure of Parel Workshop of Central Railway – On the request of AIRF, the Minister has agreed to discuss the matter further.

10. Shifting of Central Railway Headquarters Building and its conversion into World Class Rail Museum – – On the request of AIRF, the Minister has agreed to discuss the matter further.

11. Improvement in the condition of the Railway Quarters – The Minister said that, he is in favour of the demand made by AIRF in respect of constructing multi-storyed buildings having restricted entry with boundary wall.

12. Improvement in the medical facilities – The Minister is in agreement for improvement in the matter of medical facilities, provision of Mobile Medical Vans in each Division. He also urged the MS to explore the possibilities of reimbursement of medical expenses, specifically for the staff working at the roadside stations as a “Special Case”.

13. Deployment of the wards of the Railwaymen as “Gate Mitras” at the Unmanned Level Crossings – The matter was discussed.

14. Outsourcing – The matter was discussed at length. The Minister advised the MS to see that, all the instructions issued in regard to Payment of Wages, adherence to social security and to take action against the contractors who would be found exploiting the workers, including black listing them.

AIRF strongly demands that, perennial nature of jobs should not be outsourced.

15. Non-implementation of the recommendations of the Trackmen Committee – It was pointed out to the Minister by us that, decision was taken to restructure the cadre of Trackmen in the ratio of 10:20:20:50, and the exercise would be completed by 31.12.2017. During discussion it was pointed out by the MS that the Finance has raised objection in the matter. The Minister asked the MS to put-up the whole papers to him during next week.

16. Employees’ Charter – The matter was discussed, particularly in reference to fill the posts in Ministerial and Accounts Cadres.

17. The issues in respect of extending medical facilities to the parents of the employees and the issue of Companion Pass in the same class were also raised by us. The Minister assured to examine the issues and directed the MS to submit a brief in this regard.

18. The issues of enhancement of production capacity of MCF/RBL and construction of additional Railway Quarters were also raised by us, to which Minister replied that, present target of 1,000 coaches per year would be enhanced to 5,000 coaches per year and availability of the staff would also be explored.

19. On the complaint of AIRF that, hundreds of Railwaymen lay their lives while running the Railways, but they are the unsung heroes, nobody bothers for them, and demanded that, they should also be respected at par with the Martyrs of the Army and Paramilitary Forces. The MR immediately asked the MS that, on all such occasions, some officials must visit and they must be given proper respect.

Source: AIRF

Ist January, 2018 to be observed as All India Protest Day against the Anti Worker policies of Railway Board

As you all are aware, revision of rates of the Running Allowances and other allowances related to Running Staff are overdue and are delayed inordinately by the Ministry of Railways. You also know that AIRF has been making all out sincere efforts with the Railway Board to get the rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff revised, but till date no fruitful outcome has emerged……

The General Secretaries,

All Affiliated Unions,

Dear Comrades!

Sub: Revision of the rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff

At the outset I convey my hearty best wishes to all of you, along with the entire family members, for a very very

Happy and Prosperous New Year 2018.

As you all are aware, revision of rates of the Running Allowances and other allowances related to Running Staff are overdue and are delayed inordinately by the Ministry of Railways.

You also know that AIRF has been making all out sincere efforts with the Railway Board to get the rates of Running Allowance and other allowances related to Running Staff revised, but till date no fruitful outcome has emerged.

It has, therefore, been decided that, while celebrating New Year on 1st January, 2018, a “Protest

Day” would simultaneously be observed by holding mass meetings, dharnas, rallies at all the Branches, Installations and Divisional levels to lodge our strong anguish against the dillydallying attitude of the Ministry of Railways on the subject.

You are, therefore, requested to take necessary steps in this regard, and the comprehensive reports may be sent to this office for better appreciation of the same.

With Fraternal Greetings!

Yours faithfully,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Source: AIRF

Benchmarking for financial upgradation under MACPS – AIRF

Brief on the discussion with the CRB on date 01.12.2017

No.AIRF/24(C)

Dated: December 1, 2017

The General Secretaries,

All Affiliated Unions,

Dear Comrades!

Sub: Brief on the discussion with the CRB on date

I met the CRB in the forenoon on date and had discussion on the following issues:-

1. Benchmarking for financial upgradation under MACPS consequent upon implementation of VII CPC – I explained the CRB that, prior to implementation of VII CPC recommendations, benchmarking for financial upgradation under MACPS, and that for regular promotion had been similar. With the implementation of higher benchmarking for financial upgradation under MACPS, there is serious resentment among the Railwaymen as majority of them is deprived of this legitimate benefit. The CRB assured to look into the matter on priority.

2. Appointment on Compassionate Ground of the wards/widows of the Railwaymen either died in harness or medically incapacitated – With the direct recruitment qualification for open market recruitment in erstwhile GP Rs.1800 having been upgraded to High School + ITI or Course Completed Act Apprenticeship, appointment on Compassionate Ground to those wards of the Railwaymen who are not in possession of this qualification is being denied. I had, therefore, raised this issue and the CRB has assured us that this issue shall also be dealt with on priority and the provision as existed earlier, i.e. placing them in -1S pay scale would be considered.

On the issue of Compassionate Ground Appointment, in general, the CRB said that, it would continue on Indian Railways on 1:1 basis.

3. Implementation of upgraded pay scales as recommended by the VII CPC to certain categories of Railwaymen – I had also discussed this issue with the CRB, explaining that the VII CPC has recommended upgraded pay scales to certain categories of Railwaymen, viz. SSO(A/Cs)/Sr. Travelling Inspector(A/Cs)/ Sr. Inspector(Stores A/Cs), Chemical & Metallurgical Asstt., Chemical & Metallurgical Supdt., Asstt. Chemist & Metallurgist, but the same are yet to be implemented, and the Ministry of Railways have unnecessarily referred the issue to the DoP&T, which is quite unfair and urged upon the CRB to implement the same without further delay. He also assured a positive action in the matter.

4. Absorption of Course Completed Act Apprentices in the Railways – AIRF has raised this issue many times, wherein we have requested that, the Apprentices who have completed their course before making quota of 20% should be regularized without subjecting them to any RRCs examination as has been done earlier with paper screening. The CRB assured that he would definitely do the needful and would try that this skilled workforce should join the Indian Railways at an earliest.

5. Improvement in the condition of Railway Quarters and Colonies – Regarding complaints pertaining to maintenance of railway quarters and colonies, I suggested the CRB to think on the subject out of the box. He appreciated the sincere suggestion given by me that, old railway colonies should be demolished and replaced with multi-storey railway colonies, equipped with lift, CCTVs, boundary etc., so that, the employees and their families, living therein, should feel secure. I also mentioned that, till they get proper railway quarter maintenance, the staff should be paid “Maintenance Allowance” for petty repairs, whitewash and painting etc.

This is for information and wide publicity.

Comradely yours,

sd/-

(Shiva Gopal Mishra)

General Secretary

Source: AIRF

Revised rates of stipend to Special Class Railway Apprentices

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

(Railway Board)

RBE No. 144/2017

New Delhi, dated 06.10.2017

Consequent upon the promulgation of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 on the basis of the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission, the issue of revision of the rates of stipend to Special Class Railway Apprentices has been under consideration. The President is pleased to decide the following revised rates of stipend ofr SCRAs:-

Year	Existing rate of stipend (Rs.)	Amount of fixation (2.57 times of stipend) (Rs.)	Increment @ 3% of previous rate of stipend at col. (5) (Rs.)	Proposed rate of stipend (Rounded off to next hundred) (Rs.)
(1)	(2)	(3)	(4)	(5)
1st year	9100	23387		23400
2nd year	9100			23400
3rd year	9400		702	24200
4th year (first six months)	9400			24200
4th year (last six months)	9700		726	25000

2. These order will take effect from 01.8.2016.

3. The apprentices will draw the revised rates of Dearness Allowance appropriate to the revised rates of stipend.

4. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

sd/-

(N.P. Singh)

Dy. Director/ Pay Commission-V

Railway Board