DOWA Cochin has charity and philanthropy as one of its charter. Recently two of our friends came forward to offer a few seats for the deserving wards of ESM in the Engg Colleges. The effort was appreciated by all.
It has been the suggestion of some of our members to take up Paliative Care as an activity by DOWA. It is a noble and benevolent suggestion. But what does it involve? It is not only money but constant care and attendance to the patient. Can the members undertake this? Most of them are engaged in some or other activity and they hardly find time to attend the monthly meeting itself.
Have you got time? Can we spend? Cancer treatment needs lots and lots of money. Can we gather enough funds? I invite your concerted views on these aspects before we take up this in an AGM and make it official.
Jul 13, 2009
Jul 2, 2009
New Pension Scales to MNS Officers
New Pay Scales for MNS Officers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19:35 IST
The Ministry of Defence has notified the new paybands along with grade-pay and Military Service Pay for Military Nursing Service (MNS) Officers following the recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission.
(in Rs.)
Post Pay Band Grade Pay Military Service Pay #
Lieutenant /
equivalent 15600-39100 5400 4200
Capt /
equivalent 15600-39100 5700 4200
Major /
equivalent 15600-39100 6100 4200
Lt. Col /
equivalent 15600-39100 6600 4200
Colonel/
equivalent @37400-67000 7600 4200
Brigadier/
equivalent @37400-67000 8400 4200
Major Gen/
equivalent 37400-67000 9000 Nil*
# No arears on account of Military Service Pay shall be payable.
* The element of Military Service Pay shall be taken on account for purposes of fitment at the time of promotion from Brigadier/equivalent to Major General / equivalent.
@ Colonels and Brigadiers to be placed in the Revised Pay Band IV (Rs. 37400-67000/-)
Samir/RAJ
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19:35 IST
The Ministry of Defence has notified the new paybands along with grade-pay and Military Service Pay for Military Nursing Service (MNS) Officers following the recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission.
(in Rs.)
Post Pay Band Grade Pay Military Service Pay #
Lieutenant /
equivalent 15600-39100 5400 4200
Capt /
equivalent 15600-39100 5700 4200
Major /
equivalent 15600-39100 6100 4200
Lt. Col /
equivalent 15600-39100 6600 4200
Colonel/
equivalent @37400-67000 7600 4200
Brigadier/
equivalent @37400-67000 8400 4200
Major Gen/
equivalent 37400-67000 9000 Nil*
# No arears on account of Military Service Pay shall be payable.
* The element of Military Service Pay shall be taken on account for purposes of fitment at the time of promotion from Brigadier/equivalent to Major General / equivalent.
@ Colonels and Brigadiers to be placed in the Revised Pay Band IV (Rs. 37400-67000/-)
Samir/RAJ
Pension Calculator
Dear Veteran Members,
Hopefully, you will soon see that calculating pension and arrears is easier than you think. You only need to enter some data in the cells coloured yellow. The current sheet shows a sample calculation using assumed data for a Lt Col with 30 years service. Entering your own data will do the job! Please download the attached spreadsheet if you need or wish to use it.
Background: First a small explanation of how we reached the current stage. Till 1995 our pension was quite meagre. The Pay Commission of 1996 increased
Hopefully, you will soon see that calculating pension and arrears is easier than you think. You only need to enter some data in the cells coloured yellow. The current sheet shows a sample calculation using assumed data for a Lt Col with 30 years service. Entering your own data will do the job! Please download the attached spreadsheet if you need or wish to use it.
Background: First a small explanation of how we reached the current stage. Till 1995 our pension was quite meagre. The Pay Commission of 1996 increased
Medical facilities to ECOs and SSCOs
Army Headquarters clarify that medical facilities to SSCOs and ECOs have not been withdrawn
Well, this should end the controversy perpetrated by some self-styled interpreters in M-Block who brought disrepute to the medical top brass and in a way to the entire services medical set-up by writing to all Commands that SSCOs and ECOs were not entitled to medical facilities in service hospitals.
Earlier, Medical facilities were only available to the following categories of retired defence personnel :
(i) Ex-Service Pensioners
(ii) Families of Ex-Service Pensioners
(iii) Families of deceased personnel drawing pension of some kind
Then in the year 1996, the Ministry of Defence in the name of HE The President of India amended Paragraph 296 (O) of the Regulations of Medical Services Armed Forces (RMSAF, 1983) and directed that the term ‘Ex-Service Pensioners’ shall be replaced by the term ‘Ex-Servicemen’ thus leading to the following entitled categories with effect from 26 Sept 1996 :
(i) Ex-Servicemen covered under the definition of ‘Ex- Serviceman’ issued by Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) from time to time
(ii) Families of Ex-Servicemen
(iii) Families of deceased personnel drawing pension of some kind.
In 1998, an amendment to the existing Army Order on the subject of entitlement was also issued vide AO 08/98 whereby the term ‘ex-service pensioners’ was replaced by the new term ‘ex-servicemen’, needless to say, the AO was issued under the hand and seal of the COAS. The following was explicitly stated in the AO 08/98 :
“AO 10/97 is amended as follows :- (a) The term ‘Ex Service Pensioners wherever used in the AO is replaced with the term ‘Ex Servicemen’.”
However despite the fact that the above mentioned amendments had been carried out more than a decade ago and Regulation 296 (O) RMSAF stood amended, still in blatant contravention of the Presidential sanction, no correction was carried out in the copies of RMSAF available in service medical establishments and the old (unamended) Para 296 (O) in which the word ‘pensioners’ appeared was being quoted to refuse treatment to SSCOs and ECOs who were ex-servicemen but not pensioners. Vague letters were also issued asking MHs to withdraw such facilities from SSCOs and ECOs.
The Army HQ has now clearly stated that such facilities have not been withdrawn and the Secretariats of COAS and AG have also been informed about the same.
It is only hoped that such letters leading to total chaos in the system are not allowed to be floated by functionaries in the M-Block again. It is also hoped that the executing authorities give due regard to Presidential and govt sanctions by proper application of mind rather than to locally issued letters by self-styled interpreters which have no value in the eyes of law.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh
Well, this should end the controversy perpetrated by some self-styled interpreters in M-Block who brought disrepute to the medical top brass and in a way to the entire services medical set-up by writing to all Commands that SSCOs and ECOs were not entitled to medical facilities in service hospitals.
Earlier, Medical facilities were only available to the following categories of retired defence personnel :
(i) Ex-Service Pensioners
(ii) Families of Ex-Service Pensioners
(iii) Families of deceased personnel drawing pension of some kind
Then in the year 1996, the Ministry of Defence in the name of HE The President of India amended Paragraph 296 (O) of the Regulations of Medical Services Armed Forces (RMSAF, 1983) and directed that the term ‘Ex-Service Pensioners’ shall be replaced by the term ‘Ex-Servicemen’ thus leading to the following entitled categories with effect from 26 Sept 1996 :
(i) Ex-Servicemen covered under the definition of ‘Ex- Serviceman’ issued by Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) from time to time
(ii) Families of Ex-Servicemen
(iii) Families of deceased personnel drawing pension of some kind.
In 1998, an amendment to the existing Army Order on the subject of entitlement was also issued vide AO 08/98 whereby the term ‘ex-service pensioners’ was replaced by the new term ‘ex-servicemen’, needless to say, the AO was issued under the hand and seal of the COAS. The following was explicitly stated in the AO 08/98 :
“AO 10/97 is amended as follows :- (a) The term ‘Ex Service Pensioners wherever used in the AO is replaced with the term ‘Ex Servicemen’.”
However despite the fact that the above mentioned amendments had been carried out more than a decade ago and Regulation 296 (O) RMSAF stood amended, still in blatant contravention of the Presidential sanction, no correction was carried out in the copies of RMSAF available in service medical establishments and the old (unamended) Para 296 (O) in which the word ‘pensioners’ appeared was being quoted to refuse treatment to SSCOs and ECOs who were ex-servicemen but not pensioners. Vague letters were also issued asking MHs to withdraw such facilities from SSCOs and ECOs.
The Army HQ has now clearly stated that such facilities have not been withdrawn and the Secretariats of COAS and AG have also been informed about the same.
It is only hoped that such letters leading to total chaos in the system are not allowed to be floated by functionaries in the M-Block again. It is also hoped that the executing authorities give due regard to Presidential and govt sanctions by proper application of mind rather than to locally issued letters by self-styled interpreters which have no value in the eyes of law.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh
Jun 1, 2009
Benefits to Senior Citizen
Hi All,
Some info which some of us may use at some time!!.
Bala
I. Transportation:Ministry of Road Transport and Highways:
i) Reservation of two seats for senior citizens in front row of the buses of the State Road Transport Undertakings.
ii) Some State Governments are giving fare concession to senior citizens in the State Road Transport Undertaking buses and are introducing Bus Models, which are convenient to the elderly..
Under Delhi Transport Corporation:
1. Special Hire Service: - Apart from the normal services, the Corporation also provides buses to the Citizen of Delhi on Special Hire for marriage parties, picnics, etc.
2. Free/Concessional Passes: - DTC also offers Free Passes to disabled persons, war-widows & their dependents, eminent sport personalities, Freedom Fighters etc. and Concessional Passes to various categories of commuters viz. Students, Senior Citizens, Residents of Resettlement Colonies, Journalists, etc.
For Senior citizens above the age of 60 years, Bus pass for all routes at Rs. 50 per month. Income has to be below Rs. 75000 per year.
Ministry of Railways:
1. Indian Railways provide 30% concession in all classes and trains including Rajdhani/Shatabadi trains for both males and females aged 60 years and above.
2. Indian Railways also have the facility of separate counters for Senior Citizens for purchase/booking/cancellation of tickets.
3. Wheel Chairs for use of older persons are available at all junctions, District Headquarters and other important stations for the convenience of needy persons including the older persons.
4.. Ramps for wheel chairs movement are available at the entry to important stations.
5. Specially designed coaches with provisions of space for wheel chairs, hand rail and specially designed toilet for handicapped persons have been introduced.
Ministry of Civil Aviation:
1. Indian Airlines is providing 50 per cent Senior Citizen Discount on Normal Economy Class fare for all domestic flights to Indian senior citizens who have completed the age of 65 years in the case of male senior citizens and 63 years in the case of female senior citizens subject to certain conditions.
2. Air India is offering discount of 55% to senior citizens of 60 plus on flights to USA , UK and Europe on economy class. Further, Air India has now decided to reduce the age of 60 plus for discount on their domestic routes as well with immediate effect. For Identity card, 2 passport sized photographs have to be submitted along with the form.
3. Sahara Airlines is offering 50% discount on basic fare for travel on its domestic flights only to senior citizens who have attained the age of 62 years. Discount is applicable in economy class only.
4. Kingfisher Airlines offers discount in Business class only for citizens of 65 years or above on sectoral basis. Age proof required.
5. Jetlite offers a discount of 50% on economy class for citizens of 65 years or above. One passport sized photograph required on the form along with age proof.
6. Jet Airways offers discount to senior citizens of 65 years or above.
For availing discount in domestic flights, senior citizens have to fill up a discount form along with a passport sized photograph and Age proof certificate. Jet Airways also provides Senior Citizen I-Card which is available in all ticket counters and requires 2 passport sized photographs and age proof certificate. For the I-Card a very nominal amount is charged.
II. Telecommunications:
i) Faults/complaints of senior citizens are given priority by registering them under senior citizens category with VIP flag, which is a priority category.
ii) Senior citizens are allowed to register telephone connection under N-OYT Special Category, which is a priority category. iii) MTNL in NCR offers a discount of 25% on Rs. 250 per month Plan. Age limit is 65 years or above.
III. Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution:
i) Under the Antyodaya Scheme, the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families which also include older persons are provided food grains at the rate of 35 kgs. per family per month. The food grains are issued @ Rs.3/- per kg. for rice and Rs.2/- per kg. for wheat. The persons aged 60 years above from the BPL category were given priority for identification.
(ii) Under the Annapoorna Scheme being implemented by the States/UT Administration, 10 kgs. of food grains per beneficiary per month are provided free of cost to those senior citizens who remain uncovered under the old age pension scheme.
iii) Instructions to State Governments for giving priority to the Ration Card holders who are over 60 years of age in Fair Price Shops for issue of rations.
IV. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare:
1. Separate queues for elderly persons in hospitals for registration and clinical examination.
2. Special Clinics, every Sunday between 10 am to 12 noon, for elderly persons available at the following hospitals in New Delhi.
a) Lok Nayak Hospitalb) GTB Hospitalc) Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospitald) Aruna Asafjahan Ali Hospitale) Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospitalf) Dr. Joshi Memorial Hospitalg) Babu Jagjeevan Ram Hospitalh) Ram Rao Tula Memorial Hospitali) Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital
The services include health check-ups, operations, treatment of physically invalid, gynecology, ENT and ophthalmology along with pathological and radio therapy facilities.
V. Income Tax (Ministry of Finance):
1. For senior citizens the exemption limit is Rs. 2,25,000 upto which senior citizen pays no income-tax at all. The benefit of higher exemption limit for a senior citizen is available only when a person has completed 65 years of age.
2. The senior citizen should also take full advantage of section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 whereby deduction upto Rs. 1.00 lakh is available for investment by way of insurance premium, repayment of the housing loan or investment in Senior Citizens Savings Scheme as also the Bank Fixed Deposit.
3. Similarly as also the Bank Fixed Deposit. Similarly, the citizen can also take advantage of the Mediclaim Policy. In case senior citizen or any member of his family suffers from serious medical problem of suffers from some disability he can claim certain other deductions under the tax law.
VI. MINISTRY OF SOCIAL & EMPLOYEMENT
1. Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is the nodal Ministry responsible for welfare of the Senior Citizens. It has announced the National Policy on Older Persons which seeks to assure older persons that their concerns are national concerns and they will not live unprotected, ignored and marginalized. The National Policy aims to strengthen their legitimate place in the society and to help older people to live the last phase of their life with purpose, dignity and peace. The National Policy on Older Persons inter alia visualizes support for financial security, health care and nutrition, shelter, emphasis upon education, training and information needs, provision of appropriate concessions, rebates and discounts etc. to Senior Citizens and special attention to protect and strengthen their legal rights such as to safeguard their life and property. The National Policy on Older Persons confers the status of senior citizen to a person who has attained the age of 60 years.
2.. The Ministry is also implementing following schemes for the benefit of Senior Citizens:
(a) An Integrated Programme for Older Persons (Plan Scheme) – This Scheme has been formulated by revising the earlier scheme of “Assistance to Voluntary Organisations for Programmes relating to the Welfare of the Aged”. Under this Scheme, financial assistance upto 90% of the project cost is provided to NGOs for establishing and maintaining Old Age Homes, Day Care Centres, Mobile Medicare Units and to provide non-institutional services to older persons.
(b) The Scheme of Assistance to Panchayati Raj Institutions/ Voluntary Organizations/Self Help Groups for Construction of Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centres for older persons (Non Plan Scheme) - Under this Scheme, one time construction grant for Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centre is provided to non-governmental organizations on the recommendation of the State Governments/ UT Administrations.
VII. Ministry of Rural Development:
1. Under the National Old Age Pension Scheme, Central Assistance of Rs. 75/- p.m. is granted to destitute older persons above 65 years. This Scheme has been transferred to the State Plan w.e.f. 2002-03.
2. Under the Annapurna Scheme, free food grains (wheat or rice) upto 10 kg. per month are provided to destitute older persons 65 years or above who are otherwise eligible for old age pension but are not receiving it.
Some info which some of us may use at some time!!.
Bala
I. Transportation:Ministry of Road Transport and Highways:
i) Reservation of two seats for senior citizens in front row of the buses of the State Road Transport Undertakings.
ii) Some State Governments are giving fare concession to senior citizens in the State Road Transport Undertaking buses and are introducing Bus Models, which are convenient to the elderly..
Under Delhi Transport Corporation:
1. Special Hire Service: - Apart from the normal services, the Corporation also provides buses to the Citizen of Delhi on Special Hire for marriage parties, picnics, etc.
2. Free/Concessional Passes: - DTC also offers Free Passes to disabled persons, war-widows & their dependents, eminent sport personalities, Freedom Fighters etc. and Concessional Passes to various categories of commuters viz. Students, Senior Citizens, Residents of Resettlement Colonies, Journalists, etc.
For Senior citizens above the age of 60 years, Bus pass for all routes at Rs. 50 per month. Income has to be below Rs. 75000 per year.
Ministry of Railways:
1. Indian Railways provide 30% concession in all classes and trains including Rajdhani/Shatabadi trains for both males and females aged 60 years and above.
2. Indian Railways also have the facility of separate counters for Senior Citizens for purchase/booking/cancellation of tickets.
3. Wheel Chairs for use of older persons are available at all junctions, District Headquarters and other important stations for the convenience of needy persons including the older persons.
4.. Ramps for wheel chairs movement are available at the entry to important stations.
5. Specially designed coaches with provisions of space for wheel chairs, hand rail and specially designed toilet for handicapped persons have been introduced.
Ministry of Civil Aviation:
1. Indian Airlines is providing 50 per cent Senior Citizen Discount on Normal Economy Class fare for all domestic flights to Indian senior citizens who have completed the age of 65 years in the case of male senior citizens and 63 years in the case of female senior citizens subject to certain conditions.
2. Air India is offering discount of 55% to senior citizens of 60 plus on flights to USA , UK and Europe on economy class. Further, Air India has now decided to reduce the age of 60 plus for discount on their domestic routes as well with immediate effect. For Identity card, 2 passport sized photographs have to be submitted along with the form.
3. Sahara Airlines is offering 50% discount on basic fare for travel on its domestic flights only to senior citizens who have attained the age of 62 years. Discount is applicable in economy class only.
4. Kingfisher Airlines offers discount in Business class only for citizens of 65 years or above on sectoral basis. Age proof required.
5. Jetlite offers a discount of 50% on economy class for citizens of 65 years or above. One passport sized photograph required on the form along with age proof.
6. Jet Airways offers discount to senior citizens of 65 years or above.
For availing discount in domestic flights, senior citizens have to fill up a discount form along with a passport sized photograph and Age proof certificate. Jet Airways also provides Senior Citizen I-Card which is available in all ticket counters and requires 2 passport sized photographs and age proof certificate. For the I-Card a very nominal amount is charged.
II. Telecommunications:
i) Faults/complaints of senior citizens are given priority by registering them under senior citizens category with VIP flag, which is a priority category.
ii) Senior citizens are allowed to register telephone connection under N-OYT Special Category, which is a priority category. iii) MTNL in NCR offers a discount of 25% on Rs. 250 per month Plan. Age limit is 65 years or above.
III. Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution:
i) Under the Antyodaya Scheme, the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families which also include older persons are provided food grains at the rate of 35 kgs. per family per month. The food grains are issued @ Rs.3/- per kg. for rice and Rs.2/- per kg. for wheat. The persons aged 60 years above from the BPL category were given priority for identification.
(ii) Under the Annapoorna Scheme being implemented by the States/UT Administration, 10 kgs. of food grains per beneficiary per month are provided free of cost to those senior citizens who remain uncovered under the old age pension scheme.
iii) Instructions to State Governments for giving priority to the Ration Card holders who are over 60 years of age in Fair Price Shops for issue of rations.
IV. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare:
1. Separate queues for elderly persons in hospitals for registration and clinical examination.
2. Special Clinics, every Sunday between 10 am to 12 noon, for elderly persons available at the following hospitals in New Delhi.
a) Lok Nayak Hospitalb) GTB Hospitalc) Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospitald) Aruna Asafjahan Ali Hospitale) Sanjay Gandhi Memorial Hospitalf) Dr. Joshi Memorial Hospitalg) Babu Jagjeevan Ram Hospitalh) Ram Rao Tula Memorial Hospitali) Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital
The services include health check-ups, operations, treatment of physically invalid, gynecology, ENT and ophthalmology along with pathological and radio therapy facilities.
V. Income Tax (Ministry of Finance):
1. For senior citizens the exemption limit is Rs. 2,25,000 upto which senior citizen pays no income-tax at all. The benefit of higher exemption limit for a senior citizen is available only when a person has completed 65 years of age.
2. The senior citizen should also take full advantage of section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961 whereby deduction upto Rs. 1.00 lakh is available for investment by way of insurance premium, repayment of the housing loan or investment in Senior Citizens Savings Scheme as also the Bank Fixed Deposit.
3. Similarly as also the Bank Fixed Deposit. Similarly, the citizen can also take advantage of the Mediclaim Policy. In case senior citizen or any member of his family suffers from serious medical problem of suffers from some disability he can claim certain other deductions under the tax law.
VI. MINISTRY OF SOCIAL & EMPLOYEMENT
1. Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment is the nodal Ministry responsible for welfare of the Senior Citizens. It has announced the National Policy on Older Persons which seeks to assure older persons that their concerns are national concerns and they will not live unprotected, ignored and marginalized. The National Policy aims to strengthen their legitimate place in the society and to help older people to live the last phase of their life with purpose, dignity and peace. The National Policy on Older Persons inter alia visualizes support for financial security, health care and nutrition, shelter, emphasis upon education, training and information needs, provision of appropriate concessions, rebates and discounts etc. to Senior Citizens and special attention to protect and strengthen their legal rights such as to safeguard their life and property. The National Policy on Older Persons confers the status of senior citizen to a person who has attained the age of 60 years.
2.. The Ministry is also implementing following schemes for the benefit of Senior Citizens:
(a) An Integrated Programme for Older Persons (Plan Scheme) – This Scheme has been formulated by revising the earlier scheme of “Assistance to Voluntary Organisations for Programmes relating to the Welfare of the Aged”. Under this Scheme, financial assistance upto 90% of the project cost is provided to NGOs for establishing and maintaining Old Age Homes, Day Care Centres, Mobile Medicare Units and to provide non-institutional services to older persons.
(b) The Scheme of Assistance to Panchayati Raj Institutions/ Voluntary Organizations/Self Help Groups for Construction of Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centres for older persons (Non Plan Scheme) - Under this Scheme, one time construction grant for Old Age Homes/Multi-Service Centre is provided to non-governmental organizations on the recommendation of the State Governments/ UT Administrations.
VII. Ministry of Rural Development:
1. Under the National Old Age Pension Scheme, Central Assistance of Rs. 75/- p.m. is granted to destitute older persons above 65 years. This Scheme has been transferred to the State Plan w.e.f. 2002-03.
2. Under the Annapurna Scheme, free food grains (wheat or rice) upto 10 kg. per month are provided to destitute older persons 65 years or above who are otherwise eligible for old age pension but are not receiving it.
May 25, 2009
Latest News
www.indianmilitary.info
Monday, May 25, 2009
Execution of ‘non-functional financial upgradation’ with effect from 2006 ordered for all Group-A organised services
The govt has finally issued orders for non-functional financial upgradation for all Organised Group-A Civil Services on 21 May 2009.With this, whenever an IAS officer gets empanelled at a particular post in the Centre, all other Group-A service officers shall also be moved up to the same pay level after a period of two years from the date of empanelment. The upgradation of other Group-A officers shall not have any functional effect, that is, the upgradation shall only result in a higher pay or grade pay and would not lead to an enhanced status. Such officers shall maintain the status of their functional grade pay. To take an example, if an officer of the IAS of 1999 batch is empanelled as a Deputy Secretary to Govt of India in 2008 (Pay Band-3 / Grade Pay 7600), then all other Organised Group-A civil officers of the 1997 batch shall also be placed in GP 7600 in a non-functional capacity, their functional GP shall remain 6600. With these orders, all organised Group-A civil services are set to move into Pay Band-4 after 16 years of service.The following is the PB-4 empanelment schedule for the IAS with effect from 20061992 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Director to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 8700) in July 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1990 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 8700 on a non-functional basis with effect from July 2006.1986 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Joint Secretary to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 10000) in October 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1984 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 10000 on a non-functional basis with effect from October 2006.1975 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Additional Secretary to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 12000) in March 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1973 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 12000 on a non-functional basis with effect from March 2006.The complete Govt sanction letter can also be viewed by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 5:44 AM 8 comments
Labels: Grade Pay, Misc, Pay Commission
Friday, May 22, 2009
Retired Lt Colonels can rejoice
Refer to this previous post on this blog (20 May 2009).Consequent to the placement of Lt Cols and equivalent in Pay Band-4, the revised orders for grant of enhanced pension have been issued by the Ministry of Defence. The full pension of pre-06 Lt Colonels is now Rs 25,700.Of course, DA @ 22% is admissible in addition to the above mentioned amount as on date.The complete govt letter / notification can be viewed and downloaded by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 8:26 PM 45 comments
Labels: Pay Commission, Pension, Policy and Benefits
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Benefit of rounding off / bunching of disability percentage for calculation of disability element would be applicable to superannuating personnel too
The 5th Central Pay Commission had recommended the benefit of rounding-off / bunching of disability percentages for grant of disability element of disability pension. It was recommended that persons with disability till 50% should be paid a disability element calculated by taking the disability at 50%, those with a disability between 50-75% should be granted a disability element by taking the disability as 75% and those with a disability above 75% should be granted a disability element @ 100%.The said modalities were notified by the Govt in 2001 with effect from 1996. However, the govt sanction letter provided that the said benefit would only be made available to those who were invalided out and not to those who were discharged on completion of terms or on superannuation with a disability, and that the latter would be granted a disability element in accordance with the actual percentage of disability and hence would not be provided the benefit of rounding off / bunching.The Hon’ble Punjab & Haryana High Court however did not take this kindly. The Hon’ble High Court in 2008, in the case Paramjit Singh Vs Union of India, ruled that even those who are discharged on completion of terms or on superannuation would be entitled to the rounding off and bunching of disability percentage thereby leading to an enhanced pension. The same was done by relying on Regulation 179 (Regulation 53 for officers) of the Pension Regulations for the Army. The said Regulations provide that persons retiring or superannuating with a disability would also be ‘deemed to have been invalided out’ or service.The govt however filed a review petition in the said Writ Petition but the same has been dismissed by the Hon’ble Court and it has been re-iterated that the benefit should be granted to all disabled personnel including those discharged / retiring with a disability and not only to those who have been invalided.The Court has also held that AGIF is liable to pay disability cover even to discharged / superannuating personnel and that AGIF is very much a body under the control of the govt, the actions of which can be challenged in the High Court. It was contended by the Govt that AGIF was not a body of the ‘State’ and hence writ jurisdiction could not be invoked against it.The Times of India has also reported this and the same can be viewed by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 8:20 AM 9 comments
Monday, May 25, 2009
Execution of ‘non-functional financial upgradation’ with effect from 2006 ordered for all Group-A organised services
The govt has finally issued orders for non-functional financial upgradation for all Organised Group-A Civil Services on 21 May 2009.With this, whenever an IAS officer gets empanelled at a particular post in the Centre, all other Group-A service officers shall also be moved up to the same pay level after a period of two years from the date of empanelment. The upgradation of other Group-A officers shall not have any functional effect, that is, the upgradation shall only result in a higher pay or grade pay and would not lead to an enhanced status. Such officers shall maintain the status of their functional grade pay. To take an example, if an officer of the IAS of 1999 batch is empanelled as a Deputy Secretary to Govt of India in 2008 (Pay Band-3 / Grade Pay 7600), then all other Organised Group-A civil officers of the 1997 batch shall also be placed in GP 7600 in a non-functional capacity, their functional GP shall remain 6600. With these orders, all organised Group-A civil services are set to move into Pay Band-4 after 16 years of service.The following is the PB-4 empanelment schedule for the IAS with effect from 20061992 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Director to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 8700) in July 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1990 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 8700 on a non-functional basis with effect from July 2006.1986 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Joint Secretary to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 10000) in October 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1984 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 10000 on a non-functional basis with effect from October 2006.1975 batch of the IAS was approved for functional empanelment as Additional Secretary to Govt of India (PB-4 / GP 12000) in March 2006, hence all other organised Group-A civil services of the 1973 batch would move to PB-4 / GP 12000 on a non-functional basis with effect from March 2006.The complete Govt sanction letter can also be viewed by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 5:44 AM 8 comments
Labels: Grade Pay, Misc, Pay Commission
Friday, May 22, 2009
Retired Lt Colonels can rejoice
Refer to this previous post on this blog (20 May 2009).Consequent to the placement of Lt Cols and equivalent in Pay Band-4, the revised orders for grant of enhanced pension have been issued by the Ministry of Defence. The full pension of pre-06 Lt Colonels is now Rs 25,700.Of course, DA @ 22% is admissible in addition to the above mentioned amount as on date.The complete govt letter / notification can be viewed and downloaded by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 8:26 PM 45 comments
Labels: Pay Commission, Pension, Policy and Benefits
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Benefit of rounding off / bunching of disability percentage for calculation of disability element would be applicable to superannuating personnel too
The 5th Central Pay Commission had recommended the benefit of rounding-off / bunching of disability percentages for grant of disability element of disability pension. It was recommended that persons with disability till 50% should be paid a disability element calculated by taking the disability at 50%, those with a disability between 50-75% should be granted a disability element by taking the disability as 75% and those with a disability above 75% should be granted a disability element @ 100%.The said modalities were notified by the Govt in 2001 with effect from 1996. However, the govt sanction letter provided that the said benefit would only be made available to those who were invalided out and not to those who were discharged on completion of terms or on superannuation with a disability, and that the latter would be granted a disability element in accordance with the actual percentage of disability and hence would not be provided the benefit of rounding off / bunching.The Hon’ble Punjab & Haryana High Court however did not take this kindly. The Hon’ble High Court in 2008, in the case Paramjit Singh Vs Union of India, ruled that even those who are discharged on completion of terms or on superannuation would be entitled to the rounding off and bunching of disability percentage thereby leading to an enhanced pension. The same was done by relying on Regulation 179 (Regulation 53 for officers) of the Pension Regulations for the Army. The said Regulations provide that persons retiring or superannuating with a disability would also be ‘deemed to have been invalided out’ or service.The govt however filed a review petition in the said Writ Petition but the same has been dismissed by the Hon’ble Court and it has been re-iterated that the benefit should be granted to all disabled personnel including those discharged / retiring with a disability and not only to those who have been invalided.The Court has also held that AGIF is liable to pay disability cover even to discharged / superannuating personnel and that AGIF is very much a body under the control of the govt, the actions of which can be challenged in the High Court. It was contended by the Govt that AGIF was not a body of the ‘State’ and hence writ jurisdiction could not be invoked against it.The Times of India has also reported this and the same can be viewed by clicking here.
Posted by Navdeep / Maj Navdeep Singh at 8:20 AM 9 comments
May 22, 2009
IESM Political touch
Dear All,
As you know, I am not a member of the IESM, but since I am concerned with veteran issues, I am appending my take on the post-election controversy, which has ruled the e-mail circuit since the election results were announced.
Now that tempers seem to have cooled down amongst the veterans, the need is for some introspection by all the organizations, big and small, which are looking after the interests of the veterans. This includes the Core Group of the IESM.
One has seen in the past that everyone wants to take credit for anything achieved and this was quite discernable in the various e-mails that were on the web from time to time. These also contributed to discord at times.The fact of the matter is that it is the contribution of every organization and some individuals too which resulted in the veterans getting some issues resolved. When one organization wants to take credit, it creates bad blood unnecessarily and hence should be avoided.
When something adverse happens, all organizations initially react in a manner which can best be described as ‘digging ones heels’, rationalization and trying to justify one’s actions. This phase is in reality counter-productive. Instead, what the members want is reassurances that the decision makers do realize that they got carried away by promises made and the presence of more or less committed persons who pushed the agenda of their favourite party and that they would be more pragmatic and less impulsive in future. Humility and not brashness is needed at this stage, if veteran organizations want to win back and retain their flocks and even get fresh aspirants. This is applicable to all veteran organizations and not just the IESM. After all, they all supported one or the other political parties, for their own reasons.
This is also the time to think rationally, with the head and not the heart, of how to make the best of a bad bargain and re-think on the future course of action. The following points come to my mind, but I am sure more knowledgeable persons would be able to refine and redefine them:
Ø Should the agitational approach continue or should there be a pause, if not an abandonment of this approach altogether?
Ø Is the organization ready to make ‘peace’ (I am not sure whether that is the correct word) with other veteran organizations and chalk out a coordinated, if not joint programme which can help the veterans collectively? It automatically means all concerned to give way partly (of both their egos and programmes) for the common good.
Ø It is quite obvious that one of the earlier actions to be taken is to co-opt more than just the Core Group in the deliberations, as the Group can never be as objective as desirable. If a General Body Meeting can be organized, it may be a good option, but unless a few generally acceptable options are first decided and circulated, such a meeting may well be counter-productive, with a large number just articulating emotions! There may also be a logistics problem. There are two options to overcome the problem, as under:
- Firstly, a brain-storming session should be held by say about 50 selected members, who should debate all issues dispassionately and come up with a working plan for further implementation.
- Secondly, if Option I is not feasible, then another possible solution is to nominate a small cell which can tour major locations in each state to discuss and find out views of a large cross-section of members and even others if feasible.
- Irrespective of the option adopted, the outcome should then be disseminated and members be asked to vote on the issues recommended, thus obviating members from outstations being called for a General Body Meeting.
Ø My view is that time is NOT at a premium. The newly established cabinet and government will need time to settle down to their jobs and deal with more weighty issues. For them, the issue of OROP or other issues agitating the veterans are, I feel, of lesser importance. In the interim, issues considered important by the veterans should be listed out and sent to them so that they are flagged till the concerned veteran organization is ready to commence a more comprehensive dialogue.
The above suggestions are not only for the IESM, but all veteran organizations. Simultaneously, efforts should be re-initiated, separately, to reach understandings amongst all veteran organizations, as all are undoubtedly working for the benefit of the veteran community, in their own way. It may be utopian, at least at this stage, to think that the different organizations will merge and become one entity. However, coordination and cooperation are eminently feasible. What is needed is appreciation of others viewpoints and an accommodative approach.
I have deliberately refrained from commenting on the following issues, as they are highly sensitive and can be read wrongly, when one is trying to mend matters and reach a consensus:
Ø The agitational or the lobbying approach.
Ø Rationalization of the bigger question whether veterans and active service personnel should go their separate ways or adopt the theory of the umbilical chord, stressed by many, including me.
Ø The major question of being politically aligned or being apolitical; many views have already been expressed. In addition, what constitutes being ‘political’ and the parameters of being ‘apolitical’.
.Warm regards.
Vijay Oberoi
Former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)Former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS)RESIDENCELt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM 'DAULAT'#673, Sector - 6Panchkula - 134109Telephone - 0172 - 2587642, 2587648e - mail : http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=oberoivijay@hotmail.comOFFICELt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM PresidentWar Wounded Foundation313, MIG (Ground floor), Pkt-I,Sector-23, Dwarka,New Delhi- 110075 Telephone - 011-45604116E-mail - http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=warwounded@rediffmail.com ; http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=enquiry@warwounded.org.Web site http://www.warwounded.org/
As you know, I am not a member of the IESM, but since I am concerned with veteran issues, I am appending my take on the post-election controversy, which has ruled the e-mail circuit since the election results were announced.
Now that tempers seem to have cooled down amongst the veterans, the need is for some introspection by all the organizations, big and small, which are looking after the interests of the veterans. This includes the Core Group of the IESM.
One has seen in the past that everyone wants to take credit for anything achieved and this was quite discernable in the various e-mails that were on the web from time to time. These also contributed to discord at times.The fact of the matter is that it is the contribution of every organization and some individuals too which resulted in the veterans getting some issues resolved. When one organization wants to take credit, it creates bad blood unnecessarily and hence should be avoided.
When something adverse happens, all organizations initially react in a manner which can best be described as ‘digging ones heels’, rationalization and trying to justify one’s actions. This phase is in reality counter-productive. Instead, what the members want is reassurances that the decision makers do realize that they got carried away by promises made and the presence of more or less committed persons who pushed the agenda of their favourite party and that they would be more pragmatic and less impulsive in future. Humility and not brashness is needed at this stage, if veteran organizations want to win back and retain their flocks and even get fresh aspirants. This is applicable to all veteran organizations and not just the IESM. After all, they all supported one or the other political parties, for their own reasons.
This is also the time to think rationally, with the head and not the heart, of how to make the best of a bad bargain and re-think on the future course of action. The following points come to my mind, but I am sure more knowledgeable persons would be able to refine and redefine them:
Ø Should the agitational approach continue or should there be a pause, if not an abandonment of this approach altogether?
Ø Is the organization ready to make ‘peace’ (I am not sure whether that is the correct word) with other veteran organizations and chalk out a coordinated, if not joint programme which can help the veterans collectively? It automatically means all concerned to give way partly (of both their egos and programmes) for the common good.
Ø It is quite obvious that one of the earlier actions to be taken is to co-opt more than just the Core Group in the deliberations, as the Group can never be as objective as desirable. If a General Body Meeting can be organized, it may be a good option, but unless a few generally acceptable options are first decided and circulated, such a meeting may well be counter-productive, with a large number just articulating emotions! There may also be a logistics problem. There are two options to overcome the problem, as under:
- Firstly, a brain-storming session should be held by say about 50 selected members, who should debate all issues dispassionately and come up with a working plan for further implementation.
- Secondly, if Option I is not feasible, then another possible solution is to nominate a small cell which can tour major locations in each state to discuss and find out views of a large cross-section of members and even others if feasible.
- Irrespective of the option adopted, the outcome should then be disseminated and members be asked to vote on the issues recommended, thus obviating members from outstations being called for a General Body Meeting.
Ø My view is that time is NOT at a premium. The newly established cabinet and government will need time to settle down to their jobs and deal with more weighty issues. For them, the issue of OROP or other issues agitating the veterans are, I feel, of lesser importance. In the interim, issues considered important by the veterans should be listed out and sent to them so that they are flagged till the concerned veteran organization is ready to commence a more comprehensive dialogue.
The above suggestions are not only for the IESM, but all veteran organizations. Simultaneously, efforts should be re-initiated, separately, to reach understandings amongst all veteran organizations, as all are undoubtedly working for the benefit of the veteran community, in their own way. It may be utopian, at least at this stage, to think that the different organizations will merge and become one entity. However, coordination and cooperation are eminently feasible. What is needed is appreciation of others viewpoints and an accommodative approach.
I have deliberately refrained from commenting on the following issues, as they are highly sensitive and can be read wrongly, when one is trying to mend matters and reach a consensus:
Ø The agitational or the lobbying approach.
Ø Rationalization of the bigger question whether veterans and active service personnel should go their separate ways or adopt the theory of the umbilical chord, stressed by many, including me.
Ø The major question of being politically aligned or being apolitical; many views have already been expressed. In addition, what constitutes being ‘political’ and the parameters of being ‘apolitical’.
.Warm regards.
Vijay Oberoi
Former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)Former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS)RESIDENCELt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM 'DAULAT'#673, Sector - 6Panchkula - 134109Telephone - 0172 - 2587642, 2587648e - mail : http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=oberoivijay@hotmail.comOFFICELt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM PresidentWar Wounded Foundation313, MIG (Ground floor), Pkt-I,Sector-23, Dwarka,New Delhi- 110075 Telephone - 011-45604116E-mail - http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=warwounded@rediffmail.com ; http://in.mc948.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=enquiry@warwounded.org.Web site http://www.warwounded.org/
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