Instructions regading No Limit for Withdrawals in Post Offices as per RBI relaxation

Respected Sir/Madam,

Please find attached the RBI Notification regarding relaxation in the limit of withdrawal of cash from bank deposit accounts. The instructions of RBI stipulates that withdrawals may be allowed for deposits made in current legal tender notes on or after 29.11.2016 beyond the current limits preferably, available higher denomination bank notes of Rs. 2000/- and 500/- are to be issued for such withdrawals. 

This instructions of RBI is applicable only for those depositors who deposits valid legal tender notes and seeking withdrawal, for whom the current limit of (Rs. 24000/-) is relaxed. 

The following are the procedure to be followed:-

1.The withdrawal exceeding the current limits may be allowed only in the home SOL of the account holder.

2.The Finacle application should validate the withdrawals exceeding the limit for those depositors who deposit the current legal tender notes on or after 29.11.2016. For this purpose a Patch needs to be deployed.

3.The counter PA should maintain a separate register for entering details of such deposit transactions.

The proforma of the register is as follows:-

S.No. Date Name of the Account Holder SB Account Number Amount Deposited through current legal tender notes Deno. of legal tender notes Counter PA Sign. PM/SPM/ Counter Supervisor Signature, Date and amount of withdrawal, if any

4. The depositors who are depositing current legal tender notes on or after 29.11.2016 should write the denomination of currency notes on the pay in slip.

5. After acceptance of deposit by post office, the concerned PA should acknowledge the tendering of currency notes on the back side of the counterfoil of the pay in slip and write the Sl. No. of the entry in above mentioned register.

6. While allowing withdrawal the Counter PA should consult the prescribed Register and make necessary entries for the cash withdrawal from the respective account.

7. Counter PA should maintain the details of cash received and remitted to Treasurer separately for WOS Notes and Current Legal Notes.

CEPT team/FSI vendor is requested to put in place necessary validation by deploying a Patch in Finacle application. Further detail will be intimated in due course. 

In the meanwhile, necessary instructions may be issued to all concerned. 

With regards,

Sachin Kishore

Director (CBS)

Sansad Marg,

Dak Bhavan

Conduct of Limited Department Competitive Examination for promotion to the cadre of P.S. Group 'B' scheduled on 04th December, 2016

Directorate has now issued to instruction to Circles vide DE Section Letter No.A-34012/08/2016-DE dated 29th November,2016 to issue Admit Cards to the eligible candidates of the Examination scheduled on 04th December, 2016.

CHQ wishes all the best to its members who are appearing for the above Examination. 

Hon'ble High Court of Kerala vacated the interim order of CAT Ernakulam Bench

It has been informed by the applicants that interim order given by Hon'ble CAT Ernakulam Bench in OA No.180/953/2016 (M.A. 180/1242/2016) "to hold the examination separately for each vacancy year with a gap of minimum 40 days advance notice" is vacated by Hon'ble High Court of Kerala. The result of the examination is subject to the outcome of the OA. 

Status of Contempt Petition regarding up-gradation of Grade Pay of Inspector Posts w.e.f 01.01.2006

Contempt case filed before Hon'ble CAT Ernakulam for up-gradation of GP of Inspector Posts w.e.f. 1/1/2006 was listed yesterday. As per the request of the respondent, three weeks time has been granted to file their counter reply. 

Convening of DPC for promotion to PS Group B Cadre

No. CHQ/AIAIPASP/DPC-PS Gr B/ 2016                  Dated :    28/11/2016

To,

Shri A. K. Dash,

Member (P),

Department of Posts, 

Dak Bhavan, Sansad Marg, 

New Delhi 110 001. 

Subject: Convening of DPC for promotion to PS Group B Cadre.

Respected Sir,

          With profound regards, this Association invites your kind attention to OM No. 22011/1/2011-Estt(D) dated 27.10.2016 of Department of Personnel and Training, New Delhi, on the vital subject of timely and advance action in convening of Departmental Promotion Committee meeting in terms of Model Calendar. With a view to having the approved select panels for promotion ready in advance in a time-bound manner, Nodal Department has strongly advised for meticulous adherence of  Model Calendar for DPCs issued vide OM No. 22011/9/98-Estt.(D) dated 08/09/1998, modified vide OM No. 22011/4/2013-Estt.(D) dated 28/01/15. It was desired that prescribed time-line may be followed so as to ensure readiness of panel in time and its utilization as and when the vacancies arise during the course of vacancy year.

         

This Association is constrained to inform that objective of timely promotions has lost its way with these abnormal delays. While at this juncture, we ought to have a list of elevated PS Group B officers, but, regretfully, nothing seems to have finalized till now, and the last month of this calendar year is starting in a day or so. Sir, you would be well aware of the loss of increment benefit, in case promoted officers are not able to join on or before of 2^nd January. So as to avoid pecuniary loss, it is requested to kindly intervene and cause timely DPC of PS Group B Cadre. Association also like to request your kind honour for issuance of repatriation orders before issuing promotion and postings in Postal Service Group “B” cadre.  

It is therefore earnestly requested your honour to kindly look into this matter sympathetically and cause issuance of repatriation orders, apart from convening timely DPC in PS Group B cadre.

         

With seasonal greetings,

Yours sincerely,

 Sd/-

Vilas Ingale

(General Secretary)

Appeal to members for Donation to CHQ ....

Our all members are aware that the issue of donation to CHQ was discussed in last CWC held at Ujjain and it was decided by few circles that they will collect the amount from their members (after getting arrears of 7CPC) and then credit to CHQ account to buildup the fund position healthy. GS has explained the need of money. Our Association’s sanction strength is 4000 plus. Few senior ASPs are working on adhoc basis in PS Gr. B cadre for years together. There was very poor response found from the members and circles to donate the amount to CHQ. Even few circles have not paid their due CHQ quota for the year 2015.

The members who have credited special donation amount directly in the following CHQ account, their names were published time to time on CHQ blog. Now, everyone is thinking about whether PS Gr. B exam will be conducted or not. If there is no support from circles and members it is very difficult to achieve the goal.

It is therefore requested to all members to credit the amount in the following account and send photocopy of pay-in-slip on whatsApp to GS on his No. 09869417961 with name, designation and office address to enable him to publish on the CHQ blog.

Name of the account holder       : Vilas S. Ingale and Yadagiri G. Nyalapelli

SB Account No.                         : 3049419758 

Name of PO                               : Dadar HO, Mumbai 400014

SOL No.                                     : 40001400

Please think seriously and decide whether CHQ need money or not. 

Withdrawal of cash per week - RBI Instructions on 25.11.2016

RBI/2016-17/158

DCM (Plg) No.1424/10.27.00/2016-16

November 25, 2016

To,

The Chairman / Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer,

Public Sector Banks/ Private Sector Banks / Foreign Banks/ Regional Rural

Banks / Urban Cooperative Banks/ State Cooperative Banks/ District Central Cooperative Banks

Dear Sir,

Withdrawal of cash – Weekly limit

Please refer to our circulars DCM (Plg) Nos. 1272/10.27.00/2016-17 and 1273/10.27.00/2016-17 dated November 13 and November 14, 2016, respectively. 

The banks are hereby advised that they may continue to allow their existing customers to withdraw cash from their accounts upto Rs. 24,000/- per week, till further instructions. 

The said limit include withdrawals from ATMs as stipulated in our circular DCM (Plg) No.1304/10.27.00/2016-17 dated November 20, 2016.

Please acknowledge receipt.

Yours faithfully,

(Suman Ray)

General Manager

Next Meeting on Allowances to be held on 28.11.2016: Nomination of Representatives of Recognized Federations of Indian Railways

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS

RAILWAY BOARD

No. PC-VII/2016/COS/3

New Delhi Dated: 25.11.2016

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Nomination of Representatives of recognized federations of Indian Railways to attend the meeting on Allowances to be held on 28.11.2016.

The undersigned is directed to refer Ministry of Finance’s OM dated 21.11.2016 advising this Ministry to nominate names of representatives of recognized Federations/Staff Associations of Indian Railways to present their views on Allowances pertaining to Ministry of Railways in the meeting scheduled to be held on 28.11.2016 at North Block.

2. It is advised that the following representatives would be representing the recognized Staff Federations of Indian Railways in the aforesaid meeting.

(i) Shri Shiv Gopal Mishra, General Secretary, AIRF

(ii) Dr. M. Raghavaiah, General Secretary, NFIR.

3. With regard to the request forwarded by All India Train Controllers Association and All India Guard Council to call them for the aforesaid meeting, it is stated that this Ministry is of the view that the request may not be acceded to as both associations are un-recognized and acceding such request will result in similar demands from large number of un-recognized associations in Ministry of Railways. It is also stated that All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) and National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR) are only two recognized federations of Indian Railways.

Rs 32,631 cr deposited in post offices since demonetisation

New Delhi, Nov 27 (PTI) People have deposited a staggering Rs 32,631 crore in nearly 1.55 lakh post offices across the country following demonetisation of Rs 500/1000 currency notes.

The post offices have also exchanged about Rs 3,680 crore of old currency notes between November 10 and 24, Department of Posts Secretary B V Sudhakar told PTI.

"From November 10 to November 24, we have exchanged 578 lakh notes of value of about Rs 3,680 crore. If you look at the deposits, 43.48 crore old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes were accepted as deposits, and their value is about Rs 32,631 crore," he said.

As many as 1.55 lakh post offices -- about 1.30 lakh in rural areas and the rest 25,000 in urban and semi-urban areas -- are playing a "prominent role" in the entire exercise, he added.

During the same period, Rs 3,583 crore was withdrawn from post offices, Sudhakar said.

Following demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes from midnight of November 8, people rushed to banks and post offices to deposit or exchange old currency notes. Serpentine queues were seen in front of banks, ATMs and post offices with people lining up to get valid currency notes.

Those without postal savings accounts were also permitted to exchange the old notes up to a certain limit in the post offices by producing their identity cards.

While the window of a fortnight to exchange these currency notes over-the-counter at banks and post offices ended on November 24, the old notes can be deposited in bank accounts until December 30.

One more CAT case filed for stay in holding PS Gr. B examination

All India Association of Postmaster Cadre filed OA No. 291/00818/2016 before Hon'ble CAT Jaipur Bench for stay in holding of PS Gr. B examination scheduled to be held on 4-12-2016 and 100% posts of Sr. PM for Postmaster Cadre. 

It is requested to all members of IP/ASP Association to study the second demand made by All India Association of Postmaster Cadre and submit their views/comments thereon through their Circle Secretary to CHQ. 

WB Govt. will take strict action for absence on 28th and 29th Nov due to "Bandh"

"Now, the Governor has been pleased to decide that absence of employees on those dates will be treated as dies non and no salary will be admissible unless such absence is covered by grounds as mentioned in Finance Department Memorandum No. 2013-F(P)dated 06.03.2012 which are reproduced below:

a) Hospitalisation of the employee 

b) Bereavement in the family 

c} Severe illness and absence continuing from before 

d) Employees who had been on Child Care Leave, Maternity Leave, Medical Leave and Earned Leave Sanctioned and continuing prior to issue of this order 

e) Compelling reasons of similar nature, where the employees could not report for duty for circumstances beyond his/her control. (Specific reasons with documentary proof will have to be furnished in each case).
It is mentioned here that dislocation of traffic will not be a reason for granting leave"

Click here for full Circular

Central Government Employees likely to get new allowances from January 2017

It is reported from sources in the Ministry of Finance that centre likely to start disbursing allowances at higher rate in the next calendar year.

It is learnt that due to demonetization and cash crunch, the process is delayed. It is likely to be paid from January 2017. 

Regarding date of effect, though the decision is yet to be taken but it is widely anticipated that fatter allowances will be effected from August 2016 and arrears to be paid in one go in January 2017.

As far as rate of allowances, the source added that the committee will stick to the pay commission recommendation. So the possibility to get something higher looks remote.

It is also reported that Govt. may consider only against abolishing of a few allowances as a populist measure.

Rs.500, Rs.1000 Banknotes can be used for paying School, College Fess and Mobile Recharge

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Ministry of Finance

24-November-2016 19:43 IST

After due consideration of all relevant aspects, the Central Government takes various decisions relating to certain operational aspects of the Scheme relating to cancellation of legal tender character of old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes; No over the counter exchange of old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes after midnight of 24.11.2016;.Certain other exemptions continued till 15th December, 2016 with certain additions and modifications.

The Central Government has been reviewing the issues related to the cancellation of legal tender character of old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes. The Government has also been receiving various suggestions in this regard. After due consideration of all relevant aspects, the following decisions relating to certain operational aspects of the Scheme have now been taken:

(i) It has been observed that over the counter exchange of the old currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 denomination has shown a declining trend. It has further been felt that people may be encouraged and facilitated to deposit their old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes in their bank accounts. This will encourage people who are still unbanked, to open new bank accounts. Consequently, there will be no over the counter exchange of old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes after midnight of 24.11.2016.

(ii) Government had also permitted various exemptions for certain transactions and activities wherein payment could be made through old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes. It has been decided that all these exemptions, with the additions and modifications as detailed below, may be continued for a further period from the midnight of 24.11.2016 up to and inclusive of 15.12.2016 :-

(a) Payments for the transactions under all the exempted categories will now be accepted only through old Rs. 500 notes;

(b) Payment of School fees up to Rs. 2000 per student in Central Government, State Government, Municipality and local body schools;

(c) Payment of fees in Central or State Government colleges;

(d) Payments towards pre paid mobile top-up to a limit of Rs. 500 per top-up;

(e) Purchase from Consumer Cooperative Stores will be limited to Rs. 5000 at a time;

(f) Payment of current and arrear dues to utilities will be limited to only water and electricity. This facility will continue to be available only for individuals and households;

(g) Considering that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways have continued the toll free arrangement at the toll plazas up to 2.12.2016, it has been decided that toll payment at these toll plazas may be made through old Rs. 500 notes from 3.12.2016 to 15.12.2016.

(h) Foreign citizens will be permitted to exchange foreign currency up to Rs. 5000 per week. Necessary entry to this effect will be made in their passports. (Necessary instructions in this regard will be issued by the RBI).

Directorate called for information regarding transfers under Rule 38

As everyone aware that Directorate vide memo No. 22-244/2016-SPB-II dated 9-11-2016 has called for the information regarding transfer of Rule 38 cases of Inspector Posts cadre from all circles on or before 11/11/2016. 

It is learnt that many circles have yet not submitted requisite information to Directorate. It is requested to IPs/ASPs working in circle offices to confirm the submission of information by their circle to GS through whatsapp. 

WOS currency notes will not be exchanged in Post Offices after midnight on 24.11.2016

GDS COMMITTEE REPORT REACHED AT DIRECTORATE

It is learnt that Chairman, GDS committee has submitted its report to Secretary (Posts) and DG (Posts) in the morning. 

Cabinet moves in to tax post demonetisation deposits

The Union Cabinet on Thursday night is believed to have discussed amending laws to levy close to 60 per cent income tax on unaccounted deposits in banks above a threshold post demonetisation of high-denomination currency notes.

The move comes amid banks reporting over Rs. 21,000 crore being deposited in zero-balance Jan Dhan accounts in two weeks after the Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes were banned, which authorities apprehend may be the laundered black money.

There was no official briefing on what transpired in the meeting that was called at short notice as Parliament is in session. Traditionally, there could no disclosures outside on any policy decision taken during the sitting of Parliament.

Sources said the government was keen to tax all unaccounted money deposited in bank accounts after it allowed the banned currency to be deposited in bank accounts during a 50-day window from November 10 to December 30.

There have been various statements on behalf of the government ever since the demonetisation scheme was announced on November 8, which has led to fears of the taxman coming down heavily on suspicious deposits that could be made to launder black money.

Officials have even talked of a 30 per cent tax plus a 200 per cent penalty on top of a possible prosecution in cases where black money holders took advantage of the 50-day window for depositing the banned currency.

Sources said the government plans to bring an amendment to the Income Tax Act during the current winter session of Parliament to levy a tax that will be higher than 45 per cent tax and penalty charged on black money disclosed in the one-time Income Disclosure Scheme that ended on September 30.

As for those black money holders who did not utilise the window, they would be charged a higher rate which could be close to 60 per cent that the foreign black money holder had paid in 2015.

Sources said the government is keen to root out benami deposits, particularly in Jan Dhan accounts.

There was also talk of the government imposing a limit on domestic gold holding, but it is not clear if the proposal was discussed at the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday night.

The Cabinet meeting, summoned at a very short notice, comes amid reports of high tax penalty terrifying people from putting their cash savings in the formal banking system.

The sources said the government wants all of the Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 banknotes to be deposited and not burnt or destroyed for the fear of penal action.

The Income Tax Department had previously warned that cash deposits above Rs. 2.5 lakh threshold post demonetisation decision could attract tax plus a 200 per cent penalty in case of income mismatch.

It was stated that the department was tracking all cash deposited during the period of November 10 to December 30, 2016, above a threshold of Rs. 2.5 lakh in every account.

This had instilled fear in people with reports of the banned currency even being destroyed.

The sources added that the government may come out with a deposit scheme or an instrument like bond where the cash savings in the banned notes could be deposited.

A 50-day window was given to holders of the old currency to deposit in their bank accounts. But the penal tax provisions were deterring many.

Source : http://www.thehindu.com/

Discontinuation of Indian Postal Orders (IPOs)

Efficient booking, transmission and delivery arrangement for parcels during upcoming festive season-reg.

Directorate issued DA order @7% to GDS staff

Directorate directed circles not to issue admit cards for PS Gr. B examination but preparatory work continue

Subject: PS Group B Exam to be held on 04.12.2016

Respected Sir/Madam,

This is regarding conduct of the P.S. Group B Examination scheduled to be held on 04.12.2016

2. It is informed that CAT Ernakulam Bench has issued following directions dated 24.11.2016 in OA No. 180/953/2016 filed by Sh. Ajith Kurian, ASP, CO Kerala and others:-

“The respondent is directed to hold the examination separately for each vacancy year with a gap of minimum 40 days advance notice as per Appendix 37 of Postal manual Volume IV so that the applicants can avail the year-wise chance of appearing in the Examination. The respondents can notify the dates of five Examinations, if necessary, in advance, so that the applicants appearing in each year would get prior information of the dates”

3. In this connection, 12 Circles were provided with the details of the eligible candidates for issue of admit cards so far. It is requested that admit cards may not be issued to the candidates till further instructions from this office as the order of the CAT is being examined by this office. Meanwhile the preparatory work may be continued.

4. This issues with the orders of competent authority.

Regards,

ADG (DE)

24.11.2016

Hon'ble CAT Ernakulam Bench directed Department to hold examination separately for each vacancy year

S B order No. 13 / 2016 : WOS notes will be accepted only in PO Savings Bank Accounts and not in other accounts like RD, TD, MIS, SSA, SCSS, PPF, KVP, NSC etc.

Regarding exchange of currency notes at post offices - DO from Directorate

CAT cases filed for holding of PS Gr. B examination separately for year wise vacancies

Case filed at Madras Bench by All India Association of Inspectors and Assistant Superintendents, Posts, Tamil Nadu circle branch under MA No. MA/310/00911/2016 (LTJ) listed for admission on 22^nd November 2016 heard and posted on 30/11/2016 for instructions to respondents.

Case filed at Ernakulam Bench by Shri Ajit Kurian and others under OA No. 180/953/2016 and M.A 180/1242/2016 heard on 23/11/2016. It is learnt that stay has not been granted by Hon’ble CAT and some orders are passed thereon. The copy of order passed by Hon’ble CAT Ernakulam Bench is expected on 24/11/2016.

Till date CHQ has not received any reply from administration to the letter No. CHQ/AIAIASP/PS Gr. B Exam 12-17/2016 dated 17/11/2016.

All Circle Secretaries and CHQ Office bearers are requested to offer their views/comments on further course of action to be taken by CHQ and also by the applicants of above two CAT cases.

Withholding Annual Increments of Non-performers after 20 Years

Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

23-November-2016 17:04 IST 

Pay Hike

The 7th Central Pay Commission in its Report contained in Para 5.1.46 titled 'Withholding Annual Increments of Non-performers after 20 Years' has inter-alia recommended for withholding of annual increments in the case of those employees who are not able to meet the benchmark either for Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) or a regular promotion within the first 20 years of their service. The Government of India vide Resolution No.1-2/2016-IC dated 25.7.2016 has accepted this recommendation. 

This was stated by the the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in written reply to a question by Shri Ram Charitra Nishad in the Lok Sabha today.

Cadre Restructuring of Group 'C' employees in Department of Posts - Clarification - reg.

To view, please CLICK HERE. 

Model Recruitment Rules for the various categories of posts in the Draughtsman cadre - reg.

To view DoPT OM dated 23rd November 2016, please CLICK HERE. 

Airtel launches India’s first Payment Bank with massive 7.25% interest on Savings Accounts

Airtel Payments Bank Limited or Airtel Bank, a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel Limited on Wednesday rolled out a pilot of its banking services in Rajasthan. The pilot is aimed at testing systems and processes ahead of a full scale pan Indian launch. With this, Airtel Bank became the first payments bank in the country to go live. Customers in towns and villages across Rajasthan will now be able to open bank accounts at Airtel retail outlets, which will also act as Airtel banking points and offer a range of basic, convenient banking services. Airtel Bank will commence the pilot with banking points at 10,000 Airtel retail outlets. Airtel Bank plans to expand its merchant network in Rajasthan to 100,000 by the end of the year, giving a big boost to digital payments ecosystem.

Airtel Bank’s services can be accessed by Airtel customers on their mobile phones through the Airtel Money app, through USSD by dialing *400#; or via a simple IVR by dialing 400. Both the USSD & IVR options are available in Hindi and English language and work on simple feature phones as well. Non Airtel customers can access Airtel Bank’s services by dialing 8800688006. Customers can also visit any designated Airtel retail outlet to access services (and not just the outlet where they have opened the account). Airtel Banking points will offer bank account opening services and cash deposit & withdrawal facilities.

1. Digital Banking: Quick and paperless account opening using Aadhaar based e-KYC. This requires no documents at all, only the customer’s Aadhaar number is needed

2. Customer’s Airtel mobile number will be his/her bank account number

3. Interest rate of 7.25 % p.a. on deposits in savings accounts

4. Money transfer to any bank account in India (Free money transfer from Airtel to Airtel numbers within Airtel Bank)

5. Personal Accidental Insurance of Rs 1 Lac with every Savings Account

6. Deposit and withdrawal facility across a network of Airtel retail outlets

Vasundhara Raje, chief minister of Rajasthan, said, “Congratulations to Airtel for making Rajasthan the first state in India to have Airtel Payments Bank. This initiative, perfectly in sync with Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for financial inclusion and Digital India, will be a boon to residents in far flung areas who are yet to have access to formal banking. I look forward to Airtel reaching every corner of Rajasthan.”

Shashi Arora, MD & CEO, Airtel Payments Bank, said, “Airtel Payments Bank is fully committed to the Government’s vision of financial inclusion and banking for all. Airtel Payments Bank will play an important role in taking banking services to the last mile in a quick and efficient manner and benefit millions of unbanked citizens of this country. With this pilot, we have taken a big step towards the launch of our banking services and will be testing our operational readiness for full-scale launch across India. We would also like to use feedback from our customers to further improve our processes and look forward to serving them.”

On April 11, 2016, Airtel Bank became the first entity in India to receive a payments bank license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Source : http://www.financialexpress.com/

Odisha Postal Circle won by 9 wickets in the knock-out match of 30th All India Postal Cricket Tournament held at Pune

No service charge on debit card & smartphone transactions till Dec 31, says government

The government has stepped in to ease the demonetisation pain by incentivising e-payments. Today, Economics Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das announced a slew of measures to lessen cash purge blow on consumers. Here's what was announced 

1) No service charges on use of debit cards till December 31.

2) For RUPAY cards all switching charges and other charges have been waived till December 31. 

3) No service charge will be levied on digital financial transactions using smartphones till Dec 31. 

4) New vehicles to come with Radio-Frequency Identification devices to ease e-payment of tolls at national highways. 

5) Service charge of Railway online ticketing has been waived off till 31st Dec 2016. 

6) All government organisations, have been advised to use only digital payment methods to make payment to their employees. 

7) Banks told to ensure chain of activities related crop loan sanction & flow of funds etc to be done in smooth manner. 

Das also stated that 82,000 ATMs have been re-calibrated so far. Further adding, that it is only a matter of few days by when all the ATMs will be re-calibrated.

Source : The Economic Times

PM invites views from the people, on decision taken regarding currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000

Press Information Bureau
Government of India
Prime Minister's Office

22-November-2016 13:33 IST 

PM invites views from the people, on decision taken regarding currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has invited views from the people, on the recent decision taken by the Union Government regarding currency notes of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000. 

People can submit their views through a survey consisting of 10 questions, which is available through the Narendra Modi App. Sharing the link to this survey, the Prime Minister tweeted today that he wants a first-hand view from the people, regarding this decision. 

The ten questions in the Survey are as follows: 

1. Do you think that black money exists in India? a. Yes b. No 

2. Do you think the evil of corruption and black money needs to be fought and eliminated? a. Yes b. No 

3. Overall, what do you think about the Government's moves to tackle black money?

4. What do you think of the Modi Government's efforts against corruption so far? Scale of 1 to 5 - outstanding, very good, good, ok, useless 

5. What do you think of the Modi Government's move of banning old Rs 500 & Rs 1000 notes? a. Great move in the right direction b. Good move c. Will make no difference 

6. Do you think demonetisation will help in curbing black money, corruption & terrorism? a. It will have an immediate impact b. There will be impact in medium to long term c. Minimal impact d. Don't know 

7. Demonetisation will bring real estate, higher education, healthcare in the common man's reach a. Completely Agree b. Partially Agree c. Can’t say

8. Did you mind the inconvenience faced in our fight to curb corruption, black money, terrorism and counterfeiting of currency? a. Not at all b. Somewhat, but it was worth it c. Yes 

9. Do you believe some anti-corruption activists are now actually fighting in support of black money, corruption & terrorism? a. Yes b. No 

10. Do you have any suggestions, ideas or insights you would like to share with PM Narendra Modi? 

This survey is in sync with the Prime Minister's vision of participative governance and directly seeking the views of the people of India on key policy and execution matters.

The Prime Minister has sought answers on very pointed and direct aspects of the decision of 500 and 1000 rupee notes ceasing to be legal tender. He has also sought feedback from the people on how to make the implementation stronger.

The Prime Minister's core beliefs of direct engagement with people are yet again on full display in the survey.

Declaration of undisclosed Black Money

Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Ministry of Finance

22-November-2016 17:53 IST 

Declaration of undisclosed Black Money

A total number of 64,275* declarants have made declaration of undisclosed income of Rs.65,250* crore under the Income Declaration Scheme, 2016. (*Provisional). Under the Income Declaration Scheme, 2016 the amount of tax, surcharge and penalty is payable in three instalments. The notified date for payment of first instalment is 30th November, 2016. Hence, the quantum of tax collected as part of the Scheme cannot be quantified at this stage.

Government has taken several measures, by way of policy initiatives and enforcement action, to curb black money. Such measures include –

(i) Constitution of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Black Money under Chairmanship and Vice-Chairmanship of two former Judges of Hon’ble Supreme Court.

(ii) Enactment of ‘The Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015’ to specifically deal with the issue of black money stashed away abroad. The Act inter alia provides stringent provisions for concealment penalties (equal to three times the amount of tax payable) and contains stringent provision for prosecution.

(iii) Constitution of Multi-Agency Group (MAG) consisting of officers of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) for investigation of recent revelations in Panama paper leaks.

(iv) Proactively engaging with foreign governments with a view to facilitate and enhance the exchange of information under Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs)/Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEAs)/ Multilateral Conventions.

(v) Joining the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement in respect of Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) and having information sharing arrangement with USA under its Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).

(vi) Renegotiation of DTAAs with other countries to bring the Article on Exchange of Information to International Standards and expanding India’s treaty network by signing new DTAAs and TIEAs with many jurisdictions to facilitate the exchange of information and to bring transparency.

(vii) Enabling attachment and confiscation of property equivalent in value held within the country where the property/proceeds of crime is taken or held outside the country by amending the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 through the Finance Act, 2015.

(viii) Enactment of the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016 to amend the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 with a view to, inter alia, enable confiscation of Benami property and provide for prosecution. The provisions of the amended Prohibition of Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988 have come into effect from 01.11.2016.

(ix) Initiation of the information technology based ‘Project Insight’ by the Income Tax Department for strengthening the non-intrusive information driven approach for improving tax compliance and effective utilization of available information.

(x) Withdrawal of Rs.500 and Rs.1000 denominations of Bank Notes of the existing series issued by Reserve Bank of India vide Notification No.2652 [S.O.3407(E)] dated 08.11.2016.

(xi) Amendment of Rule 114B of the Income-tax Rules to mandate quoting of PAN, for transactions of sale or purchase of goods or services of any nature above Rs.2 Lakh.

This was stated by Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance in written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

GDS Committee Report

It is learnt that GDS Committee is going to submit their report to Secretary (Posts) on 24/11/2016.

Efficient booking, transmission and delivery arrangements for parcels during upcoming festive season - reg

Commemorative Stamp on Third Battalion The Garhwal Rifles released on 19th November 2016.

The Garhwal Rifles is one of the most decorated infantry regiments of the Indian Army. It was originally raised in 1887 as the 39th (Garhwal) Regiment of the Bengal Army. It then became part of the British Indian Army, and after the Independence of India, it was incorporated into the Indian Army. The 3rd Battalion 39th Garhwal Rifles was formed on 20 August 1916 from transfers from the 1st and 2nd Battalions and was stationed in India for the duration of the First World War. It became the 3rd Battalion 39th Royal Garhwal Rifles in 1921 and then the 3rd Battalion 18th Garhwal Rifles in 1922. The Battalion was first inspected by Brigadier-General O. M. R. Thackwell, Commanding 7th (Meerut) Divisional Area on 18 March 1917.

Commemorative Stamp on Third Battalion The Garhwal Rifles was released on 19th November 2016 jointly by Maj Mukesh Kapila of Army Postal Service and General Officer Command-in-Chief, South Western Command Lieutenant General Sarath Chand, UYSM, AVSM, VSM at Meerut Cantt.

Guidelines on treatment of effect of penalties on promotion - role of Departmental Promotion Committee.

To view DoPT OM dated 21st November 2016, please CLICK HERE. 

Seventh Pay Commission Allowances to Govt Employees: Official Answer in Lok Sabha

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF FINANCE

LOK SABHA

STARRED QUESTION NO: 57

ANSWERED ON:  18.11.2016

Allowances to Govt. Employees

VIJAY KUMAR S.R.

SUDHEER GUPTA

Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government has deferred the Seventh Pay Commission’s recommendations on various allowances, perks and perquisites and referred the matter to a Committee;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the terms of reference and aims and objectives of this move;

(c) whether the Committee has submitted its report to the Government and if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons for the delay; and

(d) the timeframe drawn for the Committee to submit its report to the Government and the date from which the allowances including house rent, education and transport allowances are likely to be made effective?

ANSWER

FINANCE MINISTER (SHRI ARUN JAITLEY)

A Statement is laid on the Table of the House

Statement Annexed with the Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 57 for 18.11.2016 by Shri S. R. Vijayakumar and Shri Sudheer Gupta on Allowances to Government Employees

(a) & (b): In view of the number of representations received with regard to substantial changes with the existing provisions relating to Allowances recommended by the 7th Central Pay Commission, the Government has set up a Committee to examine the recommendations of the Commission on allowances (except Dearness Allowance). The Committee has been asked to go into the recommendations of the Commission on various allowances and, having regard to the representations made by the staff associations as also the suggestions of the concerned Ministries/Departments and to make recommendations as to whether any changes in the recommendations of the Commission are warranted and, if so, in what form. Till a final decision is taken by the Government based on the recommendations of this Committee, all allowances (except Dearness Allowance) will continue to be paid at existing rates in the existing pay structure. The Committee, constituted vide order dated 22.7.2016, is to submit its report within four months. 

(c) & (d): The Committee has been interacting with various stake-holders to discuss their demands and has so far held discussions with National Council (Staff Side), Joint Consultative Machinery, representatives from staff associations and officials from Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Home Affairs and Department of Posts. The Committee may also interact with the representatives of some other major Ministries/Departments and stakeholders with whom consultations are yet to be held before finalizing its Report. On submission of the Report, the matter pertaining to allowances will be considered by the Government and appropriate decision will be taken thereafter.