India Post Ties-up with MoneyGram International for Money Transfer Solutions

India Post, the largest distribution postal network in the world, and the MoneyGram International, the fastest growing global money transfer company joined hands today to offer convenient money transfer solutions to Indians. Shri Kapil Sibal, the Union Minister of Communications and Information Technology commenced the scheme by conducting a remittance transaction through the MoneyGram service and displayed the ease in the transaction through the new system. The transaction was made from UAE to Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sibal said that more than fifty percent Indians do not have bank accounts and international inward remittances to rural areas to support financial inclusion initiatives of the Government of India. Transacting money without a bank account will make a difference in the lives of the citizens.
Starting today, 100 important Post Offices in Delhi, Punjab and Tamil Nadu Circles will begin offering MoneyGram instant inward money transfer services. MoneyGram’s services will be extended to other Post Offices and Circles in the country in a phased manner. The service is expected to be available in 5,000 Post Offices in the country by 2014. India Post and MoneyGram have planned a joint marketing endeavor in a number of states.
Earlier Shri Sachin Pilot, Ministers of State for Communications and IT said that 30 million Indians are living abroad and this number is growing. Money remittance services have huge market potential as banks have only five percent rural presence in the country. This partnership with MoneyGram will provide valuable service to those customers, particularly in rural areas, who are not fully served by banks and other financial institutions, he added.
Ms. Radhika Doraiswamy, Secretary, Department of Posts said, “India Post has long been in international money transfer service through its traditional paper-based Money Order service to many countries The social relevance of India Post has gained momentum in the recent past through active participation of Post Offices in disbursement of wages to the rural poor under the Mahatma Gandhi National Employment Guarantee (MNEGR) Scheme throughout the country. We work tirelessly to extend access not only to mail services, but to financial services for all, and it is in this context that our association with MoneyGram, a leading global money transfer company, is significant. This tie-up will help India Post to provide valuable service to our customers in a fast, convenient and cost-effective manner.”
Smt. Manjula Prasher, Member (Operations & Technology) Postal Services Board said “all departmental post offices numbering around 25,000, which are already computerized, are expected to be covered under Core Banking Solution (CBS) by 2012-13. Plans are afoot to provide Rural ICT to all 1.3 lakh branch post offices in the country. India Post is undertaking diversified activities by leveraging its network to augment revenues. Our Post Offices have more than 10 years of experience in providing instant international money transfer service. This valuable experience will be of great help to make the association with MoneyGram a successful and long-lasting one.
Harsh Lambah, MoneyGram’ Senior Regional Director for South Asia said, “MoneyGram’s teaming with India Post reaffirms the company’s commitment to serving its hundreds of thousands of customers in the world’s largest remittance receive market and the value MoneyGram brings India Post’s business and customers. Bringing India Post, one of the world’s largest postal services to our network is very exciting.
MoneyGram International is a leading global money transfer company offering money transfer services worldwide through a global network of more than 244,000 agent locations—including retailers, international post offices and financial institutions—in 192 countries and territories around the world.

 Source : PIB

Applicability of Private Charge for booking of Holiday Home, Guest House, Touring Officers’ Hostel - Regarding

                                                            No.D-11016/16/2010-Regions
                                                                 Government of India
                                                              Ministry of Urban Development
                                                                  Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi
                                                                 Dated - 12th September, 2011

                                                               OFFICE MEMRORANDUM

Subject : Applicability of Private Charge for booking of Holiday Home, Guest House, Touring Officers’ Hostel - Regarding.

It has been decided that in case an applicant applies for booking of only one Room/Suit and visitors' combination includes applicant as well as his/her guest/relative, then the applicant is required to pay charges as applicable to him/her. However, in case the booking is only for the guest/relative of the applicant, then the applicant is required to pay private charge i.e. charge applicable under the head ‘Private persons accompanying as Guest of MP/Govt. employee”.
2. The above provisions come into effect from the date of issue of this O.M. This O.M. will have no bearing on the bookings already confirmed. The applicants, whose booking is yet to be confirmed, may replace their draft in accordance with amount applicable as per the revised instructions as stated above, before their booking is confirmed. Once the booking is confirmed, excess amount, if any, will not be refunded.

                   sd/-
               (R.N.Yadav)
Deputy Director of Estates(Policy)

Source: www.holidayhomes.nic.in

Removal of ceiling of maximum balance to be retained in a post office savings account - amendment to Rule - 4 of POSB Accounts Rules-1981 - regarding

SB ORDER NO. 20/2011

No. F.No.113-23/2005-SB

Government of India

Ministry of Communications & IT

Department of Posts

Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg,

New Delhi-110001,

Dated: 27.09.2011

To All Heads of Circles/Regions/ Addl. Director General, APS, New Delhi.

Subject:- Removal of ceiling of maximum balance to be retained in a post office savings account- amendment to Rule-4 of the Post Office Savings Account Rules 1981 regarding.

Sir/Madam,

The undersigned is directed to say that issue of removal of ceiling of Rs.1 lac in single savings account and Rs.2 Lac in Joint Savings Account fixed in the year 2000 was under consideration in the Min. of Finance (DEA). This issue was linked to the benefit of exemption in Income Tax on the interest earned in Post Office Savings Account under Section10(15) (i) of Income Tax Act, 1961 by the CBDT and Min. of Finance (DEA). After sustained efforts on the part of this Directorate, Min. of Finance (DEA) has now amended Rule-4 of the Post Office Savings Account Rules 1981 vide G.S.R.681(E) F.No.2/5/2006-NS-II dated 15.9.2011 (copy enclosed). Some major benefits of this amendment are given below:

(i) From 1.10.2011, there will be no limit for retaining balance in single as well as joint savings account.

(ii) A depositor or depositor(s) can deposit any amount into single as well as joint savings account.

(iii) Maturity value of any savings instrument can be credited into savings account of the depositor standing in the same post office irrespective of the balance in the account.

(i) Any cheque either issued by Postmaster or any other authority irrespective of any amount can be credited into post office savings account irrespective of the balance in the account.

(ii) From the Financial year 2011-12, Interest income of Rs.3500/- in the case of single account and Rs.7000/- in case of Joint account will be exempted from Income Tax. (Section 10(15) (i) of Income Tax Act, 1961 amended vide Notification No. 32/2010 {F.No. 173/13/2011-IT A.I}/S.O.1296(E) dated 03.06.2011)

(iii) It is the duty of the depositor(s) to show the interest income earned from Post Office Savings Account(s) beyond the limit prescribed above in the Income Tax return and pay due Income Tax.

1. It is requested that all field units may be directed to give wide publicity to these changes in the shape of Public Notice and printing of leaflets.

2. This issues with the approval of DDG(FS).

Yours faithfully,

(Kawal Jit Singh)

Assistant Director (SB)

Declining promotion to Postmaster Grade-I by the officials declared successful in Postmaster Grade-I Departmental Competitive Examination held on 12.06.2011

Postal Directorate No. 4-24/2011-SPB-II dated 26 Sep, 2011 is reproduced below :-

            I am directed to refer to Directorate's letter of even number dated 9.8.2011 on the above subject and to say that in the aforesaid letter the Circles were advised that declination of appointment by the candidate to the post of Postmaster Grade-I after passing the Departmental examination, but before his appointment ,may be accepted.

2.         References are being received seeking clarification with regard to acceptance of declination of appointment by the candidate to the post of Postmaster Grade-I after issue of order of appointment but before joining by the candidate to the post of Postmaster Grade-I.

3.         The Directorate's letter of even number dated 9.8.2011 is very clear. Declination of appointment by the officials can be accepted by the Circles only if the same is received before issue of order of appointment. No deviation is permissible in the matter.

Confirmation in Government Service - Service Matters

Confirmation in Government Service – Service Matters

            Consequent on issue of Govt. orders, with effect from 1/4/88 confirmation will be made only once in the service in the entry grade, Confirmation de-linked from the availability of permanent vacancies in the grade. Therefore, an officer who has successfully completed the probation period may be considered for promotion

The Departmental Promotion committee will determine fitness for confirmation, and the confirmation orders issued based on DPC recommendations when the case is cleared from all angles.

When recruitment rules do not provide any probation period to the post to which the officer has been promoted (based on the confirmation in the entry grade after following DPC procedure), the officer thus promoted to the grade will enjoy all the benefits that are available to the officer confirmed in that post.

When probation period is prescribed for the higher post, the appointing authority should assess the performance of the officer and declare him fit to cross the probation period or otherwise revert to lower post if his performance is not satisfactory. Rigorous screening of performance is necessary as confirmation is done only in the entry grade.

As a result of introduction of one time confirmation as the entry grade, lien to hold substantive post has undergo change.

Source: www.cgstaffnews.com

No commercial calls, unwanted SMS

TRAI clears confusion over SMS limit, exempts certain services

Regulator TRAI has exempted various service providers, including the dealers of telecom operators, e-ticketing agencies and social networking sites, from the new limit of one hundred SMSes per day per SIM, which was imposed to block pesky calls and messages.

On 5th September, after much delay, Trai had come out with recommendations to stop pesky calls and text messages from 27th September, ordering that no access provider (operators) shall permit the transmission of more than 100 SMSes per day per SIM.

"Hereby directs all access providers to exclude the following persons from the limit of one hundred SMS per day per SIM -- dealers of the telecom service providers and DTH operators for sending request for electronic recharge on mobile numbers," Trai said in a statement on Tuesday.

The directive from the regulator had come in the wake of concerns raised by telecom lobby COAI on limiting the SMS entitlement per SIM to 100 per day.

It will also exempt e-ticketing agencies for responding to e-ticketing request made by its customers, SMSes from social networking sites Facebook, Twitter, Orkut, LinkedIn and GooglePlus to their members in connection to activities relating to their accounts, based on verifiable options; and agencies providing directory services, such as Justdial, Zatse, Callezee, Getit and Askme, Trai added.

Earlier, COAI had asked Trai to reconsider its recommendation to limit the number of SMSes per sim to 100 per day, saying that such a regulation may pose a potential challenge to the "fundamental rights" of an ordinary users.

There are several instances where SMSes are an important mode of communication.

There could be a situation where a customer has exhausted the limit and suddenly some emergency occurs, COAI had said.

Further, this limit will not also be applicable on "blackout days" (festive occasions), when the customer is free to send as many messages he wants.

In the case of post-paid telephone numbers, the access provider shall not permit more than 3,000 SMSes per SIM per month, the Trai recommendations had said.

However, Trai said, "The access provider shall, before excluding the persons, obtain an undertaking from such person that he shall not use the said facility in any manner for sending commercial communications."

Subscribers have the option of choosing to be under the 'Fully Blocked' category, which is akin to the 'Do Not Call Registry'.

If a user selects the 'Partially Blocked' category, he/she will receive SMSes in categories chosen.

For registering under the fully blocked list, a customer has to SMS 'START 0' to 1909.

Source : DDI News

Up-gradation of Grade Pay from Rs 4200/- to Rs 4600/- for Inspector, Posts w.e.f.01.01.2006.

To
The Director General (Posts)
Department of Posts
Dak Bhawan, N. Delhi-110001

No.CHQ/IPASP/SCPC                                                                                                Dated 27.09.2011

Sub: Up-gradation of Grade Pay from Rs 4200/- to Rs 4600/- for
        Inspector, Posts w.e.f.01.01.2006.

Ref:- Postal Directorate No. 4-12/2009-PCC dated 22-03-2010

Respected Madam,

At the outset, the Association conveys its sincere thanks for giving us an opportunity to meet you on 11.08.2011 to discuss the issues raised by us in our charter of demands submitted to the Department on 04.07.2011.

The views of the Department on the issue of up-gradation of Grade Pay of Inspector, Posts from Rs.4200/- to Rs.4600/- with effect from 01.01.2006 and merger of post of Assistant Superintendent, Posts with the post of PS Group "B" as both are having Gazetted status and difference in Grade Pay is only Rs.200/- were conveyed to the Association vide Postal Directorate No. 01/01/2011-SR dated 25.08.2011 which is reproduced below:-

" The Association was apprised that the proposal to revise the Grade Pay of Inspector Posts from Rs.4200 to Rs.4600 did not find favour with the Ministry of Finance on the ground that there cannot be two levels in the same hierarchy i.e., IPOs & ASPOs drawing the same grade pay. They were further informed that the proposal could be considered only if IPOs & ASPOs cadres are merged into one cadre and the gazetted status of ASPOs is foregone. The Association agreed to submit a revised proposal to be considered by the Department."

The above view of the Department was discussed in the CWC held at Patna from 23.09.2011 to 24.09.2011 and the members of CWC had expressed their concern for withdrawal of Gazetted status conferred to the post of ASP vide Postal Directorate No. 25-18/2000-PE-I dated 28.07.2005 as there is no instance/precedence in Central Government that Gazetted status conferred to a post has been withdrawn subsequently and the CWC had concluded that it is not agreeable for withdrawal of Gazetted status conferred to the post of ASP. It amounts to de-promotion of ASP to the post of IP. The arguments put forth by the MoF that there cannot be two levels in the same hierarchy is not acceptable as such kind of two levels exist in Audit / Accounts Departments under the Govt. of India viz. A.O. and its next promotional post Sr. A.O. are in the same Grade Pay of Rs.5400/- in PB-2. While considering the IP cadre, the Department of Expenditure, MoF is applying different norms which are neither relevant nor logical, which this Association strongly opposes.

In view of above, it is requested that the Grade Pay of Inspector Posts be upgraded from Rs. 4200/- to Rs.4600/- w.e.f. 01.01.2006 without insisting the condition of withdrawal of Gazetted status to the post of ASP.

We hope that above revised proposal will be considered by the Department favourably.

With regards,

Yours sincerely,

(ROOP CHAND)
General Secretary

Pay Scales of Inspector Posts and Asstt. Supdt. Posts

It is for the information of the members that Pay Scales of Inspector Posts and Asstt. Supdt. Posts were as under during different Pay Commissions.

                                                           IPOs                                 ASPOs

III CPC                                             425-700                             550-900

IV CPC                                           1400-2300                          1640-2900

V CPC                                          5500-175-9000                6500-200-10500

VI CPC                                    9300-34800+4200(GP)     9300-34800+4600(GP)

DPC for promotion to cadre of JTS, IPoS Group 'A'

Today, I visited Postal Directorate and it came to notice that DPC has been held yesterday and allotment orders are likely to be issued shortly.

Central Working Committee meeting at Patna (Bihar) on 23rd & 24th September,2011

Central Working Committee meeting at Patna (Bihar) on 23rd & 24th September,2011



As notified, Central Working Committee meeting of the Association was held at Patna (Bihar) on 23rd & 24th September,2011 under the president ship of Sh. Dinesh Khare, President. CWC was attended by 16 Circle branches except Assam, Haryana, H. P., Punjab and Uttrakhand. J&K Circle Branch is defunct. CWC was well attended as expected. S/ Sh. S. Samuel, Former G. S,. Janardan Sharma, SSPOs Meerut, Shyam Pandey, SSPOs Patna, D.C. Sharma , AD (Admn),GPO, New Delhi attended the CWC as Special Invitees . The meeting was held in cordial atmosphere and healthy deliberations took place on the agenda of the meeting. After confirmation of minutes of last CWC held at Ambaji (Gujarat) and detailed discussions , following decisions were taken by the CWC unanimously:


1 Upgradation of Grade Pay of IP from Rs 4200/- to Rs 4600/- w e f 01.01.2006


The subject matter was discussed in detail. All the 16 Circles branches actively participated in the debate and pros and cons of merger of the post of IP with the post of ASP, withdrawal of Gazetted status to the post of ASP & its merits / demerits and also benefit of MACP up to the level of Rs 5400/- Grade Pay was discussed in thread bare. After that, 5 Circles (Chhattis Garh, Karnataka, N.E.,Orissa,Uttrakhand ) expressed their decision in favour of merger and also withdrawal of Gazetted Status to the post of ASP. 2 Circles (U.P., W.B.) supported the merger of the post of ASP with PS Group “ B”. No opinion was received from 2 Circles (Haryana, H.P.). Remaining 12 Circles (A.P., Assam, Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Kerala, M.P., Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamilnadu) supported the merger of the post of IP with the post of ASP without withdrawal of Gazetted status to the post of ASP. Finally, it was decided to put pressure on the Postal Directorate to upgrade the GP of IP from Rs 4200/- to Rs 4600/- without disturbing the Gazetted status conferred to the post of ASP vide No.25-18/2000-PE-I dated 28.07.2005 failing which agitational programme will be initiated by the CHQ after waiting for outcome of final orders from CAT, Ernakulam.

2 Restructuring of Inspector, Posts cadre

General Secretary explained the august body the importance of restructuring of IP cadre and also developments taking place in other cadres after VI CPC. Members from various Circles expressed that workload of IP cadre has increased manifold due to introduction of new schemes and induction of technology. The norms for sanctioning the post of IP/ASP were framed long back. Though, norms for other cadres i.e. PA, Postman, MTS have been revised, the same has not yet been touched by the Department. Hence, it was decided to discuss the matter by the Circle Working Committees and suggest the CHQ the lines on which the restructuring should be taken up with the Postal Directorate. Circle Secretaries were requested to finalize the draft recommendations of their Circles and send the same to the CHQ by 30.11.2011.

3 Revision of rates of remuneration for invigilation duty

General Secretary informed that matter is under process in the Postal Directorate and orders are likely to be issued very soon.

4 Regular Promotion to PS Group “B”


G. S. informed that he is in touch with the Postal Directorate on the issue. Release of list for the year 2011 is being delayed due to non settlement of below bench mark cases by some Circles. List is expected to be released shortly.

5 MACP Scheme


As decided in the last CWC, matter regarding non issue of MACP memo in Chhattisgarh, M. P. & Uttrakhand Circles was taken up by the CHQ with the Department. Now, no MACP memo is pending for issue in any of the Circles.

6 Postmaster cadre in Postal Wing and its effect on IP & PS Group “B” cadres


G. S. informed the CWC that revised recruitment rules for PS Group “B” are being framed by the Department and quota of General Line officials is being reduced from 6% to 3% as they have been given 29 out of 116 (25%) posts of Senior Postmaster by promotion through DPC in Postmaster cadre.

7 Supply of Laptops for all the IPs/ASPs

G. S. informed the CWC that above issue has been taken up with the Department and issue is being examined by the Technology Division of the Postal Directorate.

8 Non issue of combined All India Seniority List of IPs from the year 1999

G. S. will issue reminder to the D. G. (Posts) in this regard.

9 Postal Inspector

Important matters are being published in the web blog of the CHQ. So far, two issues of Postal Inspector have been brought out after last A.I.C.

10 Quota to CHQ by Circle branches

Circle branches are not remitting due quota to the CHQ. G. S. requested all Circle Secretaries to remit due quota to the CHQ Treasurer in order to improve financial position of the CHQ.

11 Next All India Confernce

Karnataka Circle informed that they will host 37th AIC of the Association and the same will be held at Bangalore from 27.01.2012 to 29.01.2012. Donation Coupons were distributed to all 16 Circle branches present in the CWC. Donation Coupons to remaining Circle branches will be sent by the Reception Committee. CHQ requested all Circle Secretaries to make sincere efforts to sell donation coupons and remit sale proceeds to Karnataka Circle.

Elaborate arrangements were made for conducting CWC at PATNA by Sh. Rajdeo Prasad, Circle Secretary, Bihar and his team. CHQ conveys its sincere thanks to them as well to all the CWC office bearers / Circle Secretaries for their co-opertion during CWC.






.

Development in CAT Case 381/2010 filed at CAT Ernakulam

     Above case has been heard on 22.09.2011 by the Tribunal and the decision is kept  reserved. It is expected that the judgement will be out in next 15-20 days approx.

Source: Postal Inspector Blog for Grade Pay Hike

PLB for the year 2010-11

Postal Directorate has issued orders for payment of 60 days bonus to the employees of the Department vide No. 26-07/2011-PAP dated 23.09.2011.

Family Planning Allowance to Central Government employees – FAQ

Family Planning Allowance to Central Government employees :- Family Planning Allowance, it is one of the severe steps taken by the Central Government to check growing population. At that time incentives were announced to Government employees, those having three children. In the following days it was reduced to two children.
The sterilisation operation which is performed for this is known as tubectomy(for women) and vasectomy(for men). This is a permanent method of family planning, which means once you opt this and undergo this procedure the reversal of the condition is not possible.
Before 5th CPC the Family Planning Allowance was noted as Personal Pay and 6th CPC has recommended that the rates of Family Planning allowances has been doubled. According to the provisions contained in Finance Ministry’s O.M.No. 7(39)/E dated 4th December 1979, O.M.No.6(39)/98-IC.II dated 6th July 1999 and O.M.No.F.No.7(20)/2008-E.III(A) dated 24th September 2008, Central Government employees who undergone sterilisation were entitled to a Special Increment. One would get incentive according to the pay scale-grade, not to be absorbed in future increases in pay. The rate of increment was equal to the amount of the next increment due at the time of grant of the incentive and it remain fixed during the entire service.
We are here try to several informations through simple questions and answers…If there is any differences of opinion please write to us.
Is there any age limit..?
Yes, Employees must be within the reproductive age group. If male employee should not be over 50 years and his wife should be between 20 to 45 yrs, Female employee should not be over 45 years and her husband must not be over 50 yrs.
Upto how many children is permissible for this allowance..?
The employees should have not more than two surviving children (upto three children prior to 21.07.1999). If twins are born after first surviving child and the number of surviving children crosses the ceiling of two children in second /subsequent delivery (ies) shall also be admissible.
Submission of hospital certificate made compulsory or not..?
Family Planning allowance would be granted only on production of sterilisation certificate issued by an authorised competent authority of Government hospital or Government aided hospital.
If the operation was prior to employment is eligible..?
The allowance is not admissible if the operation was prior to joining the Central Government services.
How do know the increment amount..?
The rate of increment (prescribed in the O.M.) applicable to the post held by you at the time of sterilisation.
If spouses died after operation..?
If the employee is drawing allowance and if his spouse dies, allowance cannot be stopped.
Is there any special leave for Family Planning..?
Male Employee :-
(i)  Maximum of 6 working days for vasectomy operation and for second time similar operation another 6 working days.
(ii)  Maximum of 21 working days for recanalization operation.
(iii)  Maximum of 7 working days to follow the date of operation, if his wife undergoes tubectomy, laproscopy or salpingetomy operation
Female Employee  :-
(i)  Maximum of 14 working days if she undergoes tubectomy/laproscopy and another 14 days for second occasion.
(ii)  Maximum of 14 working days for salpingectomy operation after Medical Termination of Pregnancy.
(iii)  One day’s Special CL on the day of IUCD/IUD insertion/re-insertion.
(iv)  Maximum of 21 working days for recanalization operation. Special CL for one day for her husband’s vasectomy operation.
The DA crossed 50%, the allowance also enhanced by 25% or not..?
No. The allowance not to be absorbed in future increase in pay.
Any time limit for this claim..?
No. However, claims submitted after 6 months of operation would be treated as delayed claim.  For such cases, employee is required to submit the reasons for delayed claim.
The new rate of this allowance with effect from 1st January 2008 as indicated in the table below…

Pre-revised Pay Scale	Grade Pay	Rate of Allowance
Upto 4000-100-6000	Upto 2400	210
4500-125-7000	2800	250
Upto 6500-200-10500	Upto 4200	400
7450-225-11500	4600	450
7450-250-12000	4800	500
Upto 9000-275-9550	Upto 5400	550
Upto 10650-325-15850	Upto 6600	650
Upto 12000-375-18000	Upto 7600	750
Upto 15100-400-18300	Upto 8700	800
Upto 16400-450-20900	Upto 8900	900
Upto 18400-500-22400	Upto 10000	1000

Source: www.cgstaffnews.com

Indian Railways introduced new mode of ticket verification

Electronic Reservation Slip (ERS) - The printout in standard specified Performa containing reservation particulars, and instructions for use which cn be used by the passenger along with the relevant authorized Identification, as travel authority for performing the journey.
  Virtual Reservation Message (VRM) - A screen-shot of the e-ticket displayed through laptops/palmtops/ Mobile phone is referred as Virtual Reservation Message (VRM).
  ERS/VRM along with any one of the eight prescribed ID proofs in original and the indication of the passenger(s)' name(s) in the Reservation Chart will authorize the passenger to travel.
VRM combined with valid photo-id in original will be treated as an instrument on par with the ERS.
  ERS/VRM along with one of the eight prescribed proofs of identity in original will also authorize the passenger to enter the platform on the day of journey and he/she will not be required to purchase platform ticket. ERS/VRM along with original id proof will be required to be produced on demand of Ticket Checking Staff on the platform.
 
Reference : Railway Board Letter No.2008/TG-I/10/P/SMS dated 20.07.2011

CCS(LTC) Rules, 1988-Relaxation for travel by air to visit J&K

                                                  No.31011/2/2003- Estt. (A)

                                                       Government of India
                                       Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
                                                 Department of Personnel & Training

                                          New Delhi, dated the 25th August, 2011

                                                    OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- CCS(LTC) Rules, 1988-Relaxation for travel by air to visit J&K

The undersigned is directed to refer to the O.M. of even number dated the 18.6.2010 and to state that the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) have clarified that the term ‘Entitled class” mentioned in para 1(ii) of the above quoted O.M. refers to “Economy class” only. All LTC claims for travel by air may accordingly be restricted to LTC-80 Economy class air fare of Air India from the date of issue of this Office Memorandum.

2. Past cases already settled will not be re-opened.

                                                                                                                    sd/-
                                                                                                              (B.Bandyopadhyay)
                                                                                       Under Secretary to the Government of India.
Source: www.persmin.nic.in

Constitution of Committee to look into promotional prospects of IPOs/ASPOs

No. CHQ/IPASP/ROC/2011                                                                                     Dated : 19.09.2011

To
The Secretary (Posts)
Department of Posts
Dak Bhawan
New Delhi - 110001

Sub: Constitution of Committee to look into promotional prospects of IPOs/ASPOs  - reg.

Ref: Postal Directorate No. 01/01/2011-SR dated 9th September 2011.

Respected Madam,

        At the outset, the Association is thankful to the Department for constitution of Committee to examine the above issue. From staff side, only two members of the Association have been nominated in the said Committee. The Association requests that one more member i.e. Circle Secretary, Punjab Circle may also be nominated from the staff side to put forth its views before the Committee.

2.   We hope positive action will be taken in this regard by the Department.

Yours sincerely,

(Roop Chand)

General Secretary

Merits & Demerits of merger of the post of IP with the post of ASP

Merits & Demerits of merger of the post of IP with the post of ASP



                                                    MERITS


1. All officers working in Inspector, Posts cadre will definitely get Grade Pay of Rs.4800/- or Rs.5400/- in PB-2, as case may be, as many officers in the cadre are stagnating at the Grade Pay of Rs.4600/- or Rs.4800/- and also retiring as ASPOs or with out getting regular promotion in PS Group "B".


2. All existing incumbents in ASP grade will get bonus.


3. Merger will be beneficial at the time of next Central Pay Commission for parity with other Inspectors in CBDT/CBEC and Assistants in CSS.


4. All direct recruit Inspectors through SSC will get Grade Pay of Rs.5400/- in PB-3 as IIIrd MACP( Rs.4800/-, Rs.5400 in PB-2, Rs.5400 in PB-3 with additional increment).


5. Every officer in the Inspector, Posts cadre will get financial benefit through this merger.


6. Consequent upon merger, merged post and its next promoted post of PS Group 'B' will be at par with Inspectors in CBDT/CBEC and Assistants in CSS and their next promoted post i.e. Income Tax Officer/ Superintendent/ Section Officer.


7. Anomoly created by the MoF in the year 2004 as well as 2009 will be settled for ever and merged post in the Department of Posts will be comparable with the other Inspectors in the Central Government.


                                                        DEMERITS


1. The existing incumbents working as ASP will loose their social status of Gazetted Officer after merger.


2. The immunity of ASP will be withdrawn after merger i.e. change in Appointing / Disciplinary Authority.


3. In the next Central Pay Commission, it may be possible that existing GP of Rs. 4600/- and Rs. 4800/- in Gazetted Group 'B' may get single GP which will not be available for GP of Rs. 4600/- in Non-Gazetted Group 'B'.


4. Facility of issuing a Demi-Official letter given to existing incumbents as ASP will be no more.

Grant of family pension to the eligible member of the family of a pensioner - regarding.

                                                  F.No.1/17/2011-P&PW(E)

                                                       Government of India
                                         Ministry of Personnel, P.G. & Pensions
                                      Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare
                                                           Lok Nayak Bhawan,
                                                            Khan Market, New Delhi
                                                               Dated: 14th Sept, 2011

                                                               OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Grant of family pension to the eligible member of the family of a pensioner - regarding.

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s earlier office memoranda No. 1/17/86-P&PW(E), dated 29th August, 1986, 25th January,1991 and 18th February, 1993 and No. 1/28/04-P&PW(E) dated 31st March, 2009 and 2nd July, 2010 regarding grant of family pension to the eligible members of the family of an employee/pensioner reported missing and whose where abouts are not known.

2. As per this Department’s O.M. Dt. 29.8.1986, subject to fulfilment of certain conditions, the family pension can be granted to the family of an employee reported missing and whose whereabouts are not known after a period of one year reckoned from the date of filing the FIR with the police authorities. Subsequently, it was clarified vide this Department’s O.M. dated 25th January, 1991, that the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare’s O.M. dated 29th August, 1986, would be applicable in the case of missing pensioners mutatis mutandis. It was further clarified vide this Department’s O.M. No. 1/17/86-P&PW(F), dated 28.02.1993 that family pension to the eligible family member of an employee reported missing, would accrue from the date of lodging the FIR or expiry of leave in the case of an employee who had disappeared, whichever is later.

3. While providing that the family pension to the family of the missing employee/ pensioner may be sanctioned after a period of six months from the date of registration of an FIR with the police vide this Department’s O.M. dated 2nd July, 2010, it was also made clear that the earlier instructions did not make any distinction between the government servant and the pensioner and cover both of them for the purpose of grant of family pension. However,doubts have been raised by some quarters to the effect as to whether family pension will accrue from the date of lodging the FIR in the case of missing pensioners as well.

4. The matter has been considered in this Department in consultation with Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. It is hereby clarified that as the previous instructions did not make any distinction between the Government servant and the pensioner, the family pension to the family of a missing pensioner would accrue with effect from the date of lodging the FIR or from the date immediately succeeding the day till pension had been last paid to the pensioner, whichever is later. Accordingly, arrears in past cases would also be admissible.

5. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure vide their U.O. No.263/E.V/2011, dated 12.9.2011.


                                                                                                                                         sd/-
                                                                                                                                       (K.K.Mittal)
                                                                                                                                          Director



Source: www.pensionersportal.gov.in

Income Tax exemption on Education Loans

Income Tax exemption on Education Loans under Income Tax Rule Section under 80E.
The entire amount of interest that you pay on your education loan is deductible from your total income.
There is a deduction for entire amount of interest paid on a loan taken for pursuing higher education for self and kids or spouse. Entire interest amount is deducted from the taxable income without any upper limit. This benefit under section 80E is available, assessee starts paying the interest on the loan and it continues upto eight years.
Income Tax Act, 1961 – Section 80E :-
“For section 80E of the Income-tax Act, the following section shall be substituted with effect from the 1st day of April, 2006, namely:—
Deduction in respect of interest on loan taken for higher education.
In computing the total income of an assessee, being an individual, there shall be deducted, in accordance with and subject to the provisions of this section, any amount paid by him in the previous year, out of his income chargeable to tax, by way of interest on loan taken by him from any financial institution or any approved charitable institution for the purpose of pursuing his higher education or for the purpose of higher education of his relative.
The deduction specified in sub-section shall be allowed in computing the total income in respect of the initial assessment year and seven assessment years immediately succeeding the initial assessment year or until the interest referred to in sub-section is paid by the assessee in full, whichever is earlier”.
For the purposes of this section,—
(a) “approved charitable institution” means an institution specified in, or, as the case may be, an institution established for charitable purposes and notified by the Central Government under clause (23C) of section 10 or an institution referred to in clause (a) of sub-section of section 80G;
(b) “financial institution” means a banking company to which the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (10 of 1949) applies (including any bank or banking institution referred to in section 51 of that Act); or any other financial institution which the Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, specify in this behalf;
(c) “higher education” means full-time studies for any graduate or post-graduate course in engineering, medicine, management or for post-graduate course in applied sciences or pure sciences including mathe-matics and statistics;
(d) “initial assessment year” means the assessment year relevant to the previous year, in which the assessee starts paying the interest on the loan.

Revision of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance as a result of enhancement of Dearness Allowance w.e.f. 1.1.2011

No. 4/6/2008-Estt.(Pay II)
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Department of Personnel & Training

New Delhi, dated the 13th September, 2011

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject: Revision of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance as a result of enhancement of Dearness Allowance w.e.f. 1.1.2011

This Department has been receiving references regarding revision Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance subsequent to increase in the rate of DA @ 51% w.e.f. 1.1.2011.

2. This Ðepartment’s O.M. No.4/6/2008-Estt,(Pay II) dated 1st October, 2008 states that the rates of Special Allowance and Cash Handling Allowance will be automatically increased by 25% every time the Dearness Allowance payable on revised pay scales goes up by 50%.

3. All Ministries/Deptts. are, therefore, advised to take necessary action accordingly.

sd/-

(Mukesh Chaturvedi)

Deputy Secretary to the Govt. of India

Source: www.persmin.nic.in

DPC for promotion to JTS Group "A"

It has come to the notice of the CHQ from Postal Directorate that Union Public Service Commission has tentatively fixed the date 26.09.2011 to hold   DPC for promotion to  JTS Group "A" in respect of  54 vacancies.

Release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners.

Ministry of Finance

Release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners.
On 15.09.2011, the Union Cabinet approved release of additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners as due from 01.07.2011 at the rate of 7 per cent over the existing rate of 51 per cent.
The total financial implications on account of both Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief would be Rs.7228.76 crore per annum and Rs.4819.22 crore in the current financial year.

Source: PIB

CCS (Leave) (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2011

CCS (Leave) (Fourth Amendment) Rules, 2011

[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE OF INDIA. EXTRAORDINARY.

PART II. SECTION-3, SUB-SECTION (i)]

Government of India
Ministry of Personnel. Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training

Notification

New Delhi, the 27th August. 2011.

       G.S.R -In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to article 309 read with clause (5) of article 148 of the Constitution and after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in relation to persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department, the President hereby makes the following rules further to amend the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972. namely :-

1.    (i)  These rules may be called the Central Civil Services (Leave) (Fourth Amendment) Rules. 2011

      (2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the official Gazette.

2. For Rule 43-Col the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972. the following rule shall be substituted, namely:—

43—C(I). Subject to the provisions of this rule, a woman Government servant may be granted child care leave by an authority competent to grant leave for a maximum period of 730 days during her entire service for taking care of her two eldest surviving children. whether for trearing or for looking after any of their needs, such as education, sickness and the like.

(2) For the purposes of sub—rule (I). “child” means

     (a) a child below the age of eighteen years: or

     (b) a child below the age of twenty—two years with a minimum disability of forty per cent as specified in the Government of India in Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment's Notification No.16-18/97-NI.I. dated the 1st June. 2001.

(3) Grant of child care leave to a woman Government servant under sub-rule (I) shall be subject to the following conditions namely:

     (i) it shall not be granted for more than three spells in a calendar year:

     (ii) it shall not be granted for a period less than fifteen days at a time: and

     (iii) it shall not ordinarily be granted during the probation period except in case of certain extreme situations where the leave sanctioning authority is satisfied about the need of child care leave to the probationer. Provided that the period for which such leave is sanctioned is minimal.

(4) During the period of child care leave,  the woman Government servant shall be paid leave salary equal to the pay drawn immediately before proceeding on leave.

(5) Child care leave may he combined with leave of any other kind.

(6) Notwithstanding the requirement of production of medical certificate contained in sub-rule (I) of rule 30 or sub-rule (I) of rule 31, leave of the kind due and admissible (including commuted Leave not exceeding sixty days and Leave Not Due) upto a maximum of one year, if applied for, be granted in continuation with child care leave granted under sub-rule (1).

(7) Child care leave shall not be debited against the leave account.

[F.No. 13018/4/2011-Estt.(L)

sd/-
(Mamta Kundra)
Joint Secretary to the Government of India

Source: www.persmin.nic.in

CCS (Leave) (Third Amendment) Rules, 2011

CCS (Leave) (Third Amendment) Rules, 2011

[TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE GAZETTE OF INDIA. EXTRAORDINARY.
PART II. SECTION-3, SUB-SECTION (i)]

Government of India
Ministry of Personnel. Public Grievances and Pensions
Department of Personnel and Training

Notification

New Delhi, the 26th August. 2011.

      G.S.R - In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to article 309 read with clause (5) of article 148 of the Constitution and after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in relation to persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department, the President hereby makes the following rules further to amend the Central Civil Services (Leave) Rules, 1972. namely :-

1.   (i) These rules may be called the Central Civil Services (Leave) (Third Amendment) Rules. 2011 
     (2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the official Gazette.

2.   For rule 38- of the Central Civil Services (l.eave) Rules, 1972. the following rule shall be substituted, namely:—

"38-A. Encashment of Earned Leave along with Leave Travel Concession while in service. -

(1)  A Government servant may be permitted to encash earned leave up to ten days at the time of availing of Leave Travel Concession while in service, subject to the conditions that-

     (a) a balance of atleast thirty days of earned leave is available to his credit after taking into account the period of encashment as well as leave being availed of:

     (b) the total leave so encashed during the entire career does not exceed sixty days in the aggregate;

(2) The cash equivalent for encashment of leave under sub-rule (1) shall be calculated as follows namely :-

Cash equivalent =

Pay admissible on the date of availing of availing of the Leave Travel Concession plus Dearness Allowance admissible on that date -------------------------------------------------------------------------         X 30

Number of days of earned leave being encashed subject to the maximum of ten days at one time.

                                              
(3) No House Rent Allowance shall be included in the cash equivalent calculated under sub-rule (2);

(4) The period of earned leave encashed shall not be deducated from the quantum of leave that can normally be encashed by the Government Servant under rules 6, 39,39-A,39-B,39-Cand 39-D:

(5) If the Government Servant fails to avail the Leave Travel Concession within the time prescribed under the Central Civil Services (Leave Travel Concession) Rules. 1988, then he shall be required to refund the entire amount of leave so encashed along with interest at the rate of two percent above the rate of interest allowed by the Government as applicable to Provident Fund balances and shall also be entitled for credit bank of leave so debited for leave encashment."

sd/

(Mamta Kundra)

Join Secretary to the Government of India

Source: www.persmin.nic.in

Railway Employees Cadre Restructuring Meeting

              After the implementation of 6 CPC  recommendations with effect from 01-01-2006, subsequently cadre re structuring proposals in all the Departments would have been worked out for implementation well before.If sources are to be believed,very few Departments only asked the Federations of unions to come out with cadre review proposals for discussion.As for as settling the issues related to government servants,the railway federations are doing well comparing to the other federations. Now the General Secretaries of AIRF and NFIR are invited by railway board to attend  the meeting of Cadre Restructuring Committee,which is scheduled to be held on 20.9.2011 and 21.9.2011.

AIRF News

Railway Employees Cadre Restructuring meeting is scheduled to be held on 20.9.2011 and 21.9.2011

The Railway Board has informed to the General Secretaries of AIRF and NFIR that the meeting of Cadre Restructuring Committee will be held on 20.09.2011 and 21.09.2011 at 1500 hrs in the Committee Room, 3rd Floor, Rail Bhawan, New Delhi. Board also requested to them to attend along with their nominated members.

Source: www.gservants.com

Admissibility of commission to SAS Agents

                                                  SB ORDER NO. 17/2011

                                                     No.116-01/2007-SB
                                                    Government of India
                                           Ministry of Communications & IT
                                                   Department of Posts
                                             Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg,
                                     New Delhi-110001, Dated: 09.09.2011

                         To
                             All Heads of Circles/Regions
                            Addl. Director General, APS, New Delhi.

Subject: - Admissibility of commission to SAS Agents.

Sir / Madam,

The undersigned is directed to say that there are lot of audit paras raised by teams of DG P&T Audit in many circles regarding irregular commission paid to SAS agents where the investment was made exceeding the limit of Rs.50,000/- by cash at a time. One Draft Audit Para relating to Delhi and NE Circles has become CAG Para.
2. As per agency rules, prior to issue of SB Order No.3/2011 dated 11.3.2011, limit for acceptance of cash at a time from SAS agents was Rs.50,000/- which has now been reduced to Rs.10,000/-. In 2004, Regional Director, National Savings Institute, New Delhi vide letter no. Misc/2004 dated 3.11.2001 had intimated the Delhi Circle that agents are not entitled for commission on cash deposits of more than Rs., 50,000/- at a time. CAG Para was also referred to Min. of Finance (DEA) which opined that commission if paid in such cases is irregular and recovery of commission paid cannot be waived.
3. It is therefore requested that where any SAS agent deposited cash more than Rs.50,000/- at a time in any post office and commission was paid to him, the commission paid has to be recovered from the concerned agent if his agency is active and action should be taken against the officials responsible for accepting cash deposits exceeding the prescribed limit. Where the agent is inactive but his agency is not lapsed, his appointing authority may be asked to recover the amount from his security deposit. In case the agency of agent is expired and not further renewed or agent has already expired, such cases may be referred to this office.
4. In future, it may be ensured that no cash more than the prescribed limit of Rs.10,000/- at a time should be accepted from the SAS agents as no commission is payable on such irregular deposits.
5. It is requested that necessary action may be taken immediately to circulate this letter to field units and any violation of these orders by postal staff should be viewed seriously.
6. This issues with the approval of DDG(FS).

                                                                                                                            Yours faithfully,

                                                                                                                            (Kawal Jit Singh)

Income Tax exemption limit for Children Education Allowance should be revised

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen(NFIR) General Secretary Mr.M.Raghavaiah has expressed his views in a letter on 1st September, 2011 to the Hon’ble Finance Minister regarding the exemption limit for Children Education Allowance under Income Tax Act.

He explained that the present exemption limit for Children Education Allowance (CEA) under section 10 (14) of the Income Tax Act is Rs.I00 per month per child. This limit as fixed more than 2 decades back when the maximum amount of Children Education AIlowance for Central Government Employees was fixed at Rs. 100/- per month per child under the IVth Central Pay Commission. Now the current rate of this allowance is Rs.1000 per child.

He further stated that the Federation feels that this can never be the intention of the Government as education and developing knowledge of youth is top priority matter for the country. The distortion has taken place due to non—revision of the exemption limit for payment of income tax.

Finally, NFIR requests the Hon’ble Finance Minister to kindly consider and grant enhancement of exemption limit as suggested above and make it effective from the financial year 2011—12.

Enhancement of Income Tax exemption limit for Transport Allowance

Enhancement of Income Tax exemption limit for Transport Allowance in the case of Central Government Employees.

National Federation of Indian Railwaymen(NFIR) General Secretary Mr.M.Raghavaiah requested the Finance Minster to enhance the Income Tax limit for Transport allowance in the case of salaried Central Government employees. He said in his letter that the Transport allowance was introduced for the first time in the year 1997 and the maximum rate of the same was kept at Rs.800 per month. The exemption limit from income tax for this allowance in the case of salaried Central Government employees was also fixed at Rs.800 per month in the same year through a notification by CBDT.

He also noted that the exemption limit prescribed in 1997 has been continuing at the same level till date. Over this long period of 14 years, the cost of transport has increased manifold and recognizing this fact the Central Government has itself enhanced the allowance upto Rs.3200 to its employees.

He suggested that the exemption limit may be raised to the level of transport allowance admissible to Central Government employees as was done in the year 1997 as a policy.

Probation in various Central Civil Services

G.I., Dept.of Pers. & Trg., O.M.No.18011/1/2010-Estt. (C) dated 8.9.2011
Probation in various Central Civil Services.

The undersigned in directed to say that the period of probation to be prescribed for different posts/services in Central Government have been laid down in this Department’s 0M. No. F 44/1/59-Ests(A) dated 15.4 1959 as amended from time to time. With a view to prevent Government servants from becoming possible victims of arbitrary actions or inordinate delay in considering completion of probation/confirmation, the existing instructions on provisions regarding probation in the service recruitment rules relating to Central Civil Services and Posts have been reviewed. It is proposed that in the service / recruitment rules for all Central Civil Services and Posts, in addition to the period of probation, wherever prescribed, corresponding provisions as envisaged in the draft guidelines enclosed herewith, may be incorporated in consultation with this Department.

2.Before the guidelines in the draft O.M. is finalized, all Cadre Controlling Authorities are requested to offer their comments/views in this regard, if any. by 8.10.2011 to the undersigned or by e-mail at dse@nic.in

sd/-
(P.Prabhakaran)
Director

**********************************************************************************************************************************************
G.I., Dept.of Pers. & Trg., O.M.No.18011/1/2010-Estt. (C) dated September, 2011

Probation in various Central Civil Services.

The undersigned in directed to say that the period of probation to be prescribed for different posts/services in Central Government have been laid down in this Department’s O M No.F 44/1/59-Ests(A) dated 15.4 1959 as amended from time to time. Although instructions exist to the effect that save for exceptional reasons probation should not be extended for more than a year and no employee should be kept on probation for more than double the normal period apart from instructions for timely action on completion of probation/confirmation, these are not invariably followed.

2. With a view to prevent Government servants from becoming possible victims of arbitrary actions or inordinate delay in considering completion of probation/confirmation, the existing instructions on provisions regarding probation in the service/recruitment rules relating to Central Civil Services and Posts have been reviewed, lt has now been decided that:

(i) 1f during the period of probation, a probationer has not undergone the requisite training course or passed the requisite departmental examinations.if any prescribed, or has not been on duty/training for at least 75% of the probation period the period of probation may be extended by such period or periods as may be necessary subject to the condition that the total period of probation does not exceed double the prescribed period of probation except in the cases mentioned in (ii) below:

(ii) the period of probation may be extended for such period as the Central Government may think fit in the circumstances of the case in respect of a probationer who is:

(a) under suspension
(b) against whom disciplinary proceedings are pending: or
(c) against whom prosecution for criminal charge is pending

(iii) Where a probationer who has completed the period of probation to the satisfaction of the Central Government is required to be confirmed, he shall be confirmed in the Services/Post at the end of his period of probation, having been completed satisfactorily. In such cases, where no order extending the probation period has been issued and no order of confirmation is issued within one year of completion of the prescribed period of probation, the probationer would be deemed to be confirmed in the service/post.

3. In the Service/Recruitment Rules for all Central Civil Services and Posts, in addition to the period of probation. wherever prescribed, corresponding provisions, as in para 2 above, may be incorporated in consultation with this Department in the light of the above instructions.

The Hindi Version of this O.M. will follow

sd/-
(P. Prabhakaran)
Director

Source: www.persmin.nic.in

Constitution of Committee to look into promotional prospects of IPOs/ASPOs

Postal Directorate has issued Office Order on the above subject vide No. 01/01/2011-SR dated 09.09.2011 which is reproduced below:-

Sub:- Secretary (P)'s meeting with All India Association &Asstt. Superintendent Posts on 11.08.2011- Para (ii)- Constitution of Committee to look into promotional prospects of IPOs/ASPOs-reg.

2.   This has reference to minutes of Secretary (P)'s meeting dated 11.08.2011 circulated vide communication of even number dated 25.08.2011 on the above subject.

3.   As per decision taken in regard to Para (ii) dealing with promotional prospects of IPOs/ASPOs, a Committee comprising the following is constituted to examine the issue and submit its report.

           OFFICIAL SIDE                                                            STAFF SIDE
Member (Personnel)- Chairperson                                    President, AIAIPASP
DDG (Personnel)                                                              General Secretary, AIAIPASP
DDG (Establishment)
Director (T&C)

                                                                                                                               -Sd-
                                                                                                                (Subhash Chander)
                                                                                                               Director (SR&Legal)

Govt officials may be allowed to use Facebook

Ahmedabad, September 9

The government is planning to put in place a framework for officials that would allow them to leverage the power of the social media, a top official of the Department of Information and Technology (DIT) said here today.

“We are creating a framework that would help Central departments and officials to use social media like Facebook, Twitter effectively,” said Additional Secretary DIT, Shankar Aggarwal.

“We expect to give a final shape to it (framework) over the next two or three months and notify it,” he said.

“The idea is that they can enter into a dialogue with the public more freely, take suggestions, feedbacks and provide updates. It shall be more of a two-way rather than a one-way communication,” Aggarwal stated.

“Social media is being used extensively by civil society, but unfortunately, we do not have any framework for the Central government and state government,” he said.

“The government officials are scared of using the social media because they are not sure whether they are allowed to use it or not,” he added.

Meanwhile, the government is planning to introduce the Right to Public Services Act soon that would make it mandatory for the government entities to deliver public services in an electronic form too.

“We have already created a framework and for this (Act) and the framework is to be converted into a law. We think we will be able to introduce it in the next session of the Parliament and this will become a law,” he said.

“Under this, we shall be trying to ask the government entities to deliver all the public services in an electronic form also. It has to be achieved over the next five years,” he informed.

Aggarwal said they had been planning to develop a payment gateway for the entire country so that the people could pay electronically for various services. — PTI

Source: Tribune India