personnel branch establishment serial circulars with classified ...

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SOUTH CENTRAL RAILWAY

PERSONNEL BRANCH

ESTABLISHMENT SERIAL CIRCULARS WITH

CLASSIFIED SUMMARY

2020

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INDEX OF SOUTH CENTRAL RAILWAY ESTABLISHMENT SERIAL CIRCULARS ISSUED DURING THE YEAR 2020

INDEX No. & SUBJECT IN BRIEF RBE No. SC No. Page No. 1014 Advances General Rate of interest to be charged on advances sanctioned during the year 2020-21 for purchase of Computer is 9.8%

-- 82/2020 148

1016 Allowances other than HRA Board have clarified Nursing Personnel of all categories at all levels working in Railway Hospitals are eligible for grant of Dress Allowance @ Rs.1800/- per month. ANOs are also eligible for Dress Allowance if they had been receiving uniform material and associated allowances like Uniform Allowance, Washing Allowance etc. prior to 01.07.2017.

-- 50/2020 100

Board have circulated the instructions for grant of Conveyance Allowance at the revised rates to Railway Medical Officers.

43/2020 57/2020 110

Board have advised that all the requests for air travel including those seeking relaxation/ permission to travel by other than Air India flight must be submitted to Railway Board at least 07 working days in advance from the schedule date of travel along with all necessary documents through email only (preferable by NIC mail).

50/2020 61/2020 114

Board have now decided that Group ‘B’ & ‘C’ Railway servants may be allowed reimbursement of scooter or bus fare as the case may be and Group ‘A’ Railway servants may be allowed reimbursement of taxi or scooter or bus fare, as the case may be, for local official journeys at or near Headquarters.

56/2020 66/2020 122

Board have decided that DA & HRA shall not admissible on Additional Post Allowance.

63/2020 71/2020 125

Hourly rate of NDA shall be equal to {(Basic Pay + Dearness Allowance)/200} which would be admissible to eligible categories of non-gazetted Railway Servants classified under chapter XIV of Railway Act, 1989 read with RS(HWPR) Rules, 2005 for work put in during the period from 2200 hrs. to 0600 hrs. The ceiling of basic pay for entitlement of Night Duty Allowance shall be Rs.43,600/- per month.

83/2020 94/2020 168

Board have decided that recovery of NDA from Railway employees who have become ineligible the same after issuance of Board’s letter dt.29.09.2020 be deferred until further orders.

96/2020 111/2020 193

Board have clarified that Transport Allowance to -- 114/2020 196

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Railway Employees working from home for entire calendar month(s) in view of COVID-19 Pandemic is not admissible in terms of clarification No.1 of Annexure-II of Board’s letter dt.24.11.2003 Clarifications regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance during Nation-wide Lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic were circulated.

104/2020 118/2020 199

Reckoning of Charge Allowance for revision of pre-post-2016 Pension cases.

-- 128/2020 230

Board have decided to continue rates of Daily Allowance for journeys on duty abroad without any change adopted in Railways vide letter dated 07.12.2010.

107/2020 129/2020 232

Board have advised that payment of any allowance not mentioned in 7th CPC’s report shall be stopped with immediate effect and any payment that has been made inadvertently, recovery may also be made w.e.f 01.07.2017/date of such payment being made.

46/2020 130/2020 233

1019 Substitutes Board have decided that any appointment of fresh face substitutes as TADK should not either be processed or made with immediate effect. Further, all cases approved for such appointments since 1st July 2020 may be reviewed.

64/2020 72/2020 126

1021 Confidential Reports Board have revised the timelines for generation of PAR and submission of self- appraisal for PAR for the year 2019-20.

-- 54/2020 105

1022 Compassionate ground appointment Board have decided that children born to the second wife may also be considered for compassionate appointment even where the second marriage has not been specifically permitted by the administration. A child born to the second wife can be considered for such appointment only after ascertaining that there is no objection to this from the first wife or her children.

218/2019

05/2020 28

Board have decided that CGA into SSE grade to be ordinarily avoided. Whenever CGA into SSE is being recommended in rare cases (such as where candidate has graduated from premier institutions such as IIT or NITs), the case be recommended to HQ for consideration by an SAG committee nominated by GM.

217/2019

06/2020 29

1025 Correction slips to IREC, Vol.I ACS No.139 – substitution to clauses (i) and (ii) 30/2020 40/2020 84

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of sub-rule (3) of Rule 13 of RS (Conduct) Rules, 1966; ACS No.140 – substitution to sub-rule (4) of Rule 13 of RS (Conduct) Rules, 1966 were circulated. ACS No.142 – Railway Staff Benefit Fund – The Following clause may be added to Rule 807 and Rule 808: Railway Ministry’s decision 3: There is no objection to substitute taking the place of nominated member in Committee meetings/camps of SBF provided the reasons therefor and alternative arrangement is duly informed in advance by the concerned association ie., AISCSTREA & AIOBCREA.

57/2020 84/2020 150

1028 Corrections to IREM Advance Correction Slip No. 271 – Amendment to Para 203.1 of IREM, Vol.I – Rules governing promotion from Group C staff to Group B posts

05/2020 09/2020 32

Advance Correction Slip No.272 – Amendment to Para 125 (1) of IREM, Vol.I- Posts of Section Controller in GP Rs.4200 (Level-6) may be filled up as under: (a) 75% by promotion from the feeder category in the following proportion: i. Station Master 55% ii. Guards 10% iii. Shunting/TNC 10% (b) 25% by LDCE from all eligible categories.

40/2020 55/2020 107

1031 Dearness Allowance The additional installment of Dearness Allowance payable to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to Pensioners due from 1st January, 2020, 1st July 2020 and 1st January, 2021 shall not be paid. No arrears for the period from 1st January,2020 till 30th June, 2021 shall be paid.

-- 45/2020 90

1033 Discipline & Appeal Rules In case of deviation from the advice of Vigilance/CBI cases, second stage advice shall be sought before taking final decision on conclusion of disciplinary proceedings.

-- 23/2020 49

Railways may dispose off all the pending cases at the level of General Manager, as provided for in Rule 24(2) of RS (D&A) Rules, 1968, without any reference to RRT, which has since ceased to exist based on the promulgation of Finance Act, 2017.

-- 43/2020 88

Board have circulated Govt. of India’s decision not to count the period of lock down for adhering

35/2020 46/2020 91

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to the timelines in various administrative and quasi-judicial processes, for strict compliance by Railways/Production Units. Board have clarified that it is incorrect to infer that RS (D&A) Rules, 1968 are not applicable to the Railway Probationers. On the contrary, if a stigma is to be attached to a probationer, it is necessary to institute an appropriate proceeding under RS (D&A) Rules, 1968 against such a probationer.

-- 131/2020 233

1036 Fixation of Pay Board have been approved that the employees who have been regularly promoted or granted financial upgradation on or after 01.01.2016 and desire to exercise/re-exercise option for pay fixation under FR 22(I)(a)(1) shall be given an opportunity to exercise or re-exercise of the option there under. Such an option shall be exercised within one month of issue of this order.

212/2019 01/2020 19

Board have clarified that the issues related to restriction of Officiating Pay are under examination in consultation with concerned Directorates and shall be issued in due course.

-- 17/2020 43

With a view to obviate repeated/multiple litigations Board has decided, as a special dispensation, to allow stepping up of pay to senior Loco Inspectors appointed prior to 01.01.2006 at par with their juniors appointed after 01.01.2006 who are identically placed to the employees involved in cases referred in the letter.

07/2020 19/2020 45

Board have issued instructions in connection with fixation of pay in case of employees transferred to a lower post on their own request under Rule 227(a)(2) of IREC, Vol.I[FR-15(A)] and subsequently promoted to higher post in the new unit.

12/2020 20/2020 46

Fixation of initial pay of Nursing Cadre in the revised pay structure – provisional fixation tables in respect of Chief Matron/Matron in the pre-revised scale of 6500-10500 & 7450-11500 (placed in the revised pay scale of 15600-39100 + GP 5400) are circulated.

09/2020 27/2020 53

Clarification regarding fixation of pay under Rule 13 on promotion in various situations where feeder and promotional categories lie in same level in the Pay Matrix (cases of Chief Matron, Sr.Technician, LP/Goods, LP/Passenger and Passenger Guard)

23/2020 29/2020 56

Fixation of pay of Running staff promotion in the -- 30/2020 57

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6th CPC pay structure – Once the pay of any existing employee (already in service as on 01/01/2006) is fixed in revised pay structure in the applicable pay band as per the provisions of Rule 7 or 11 and he is subsequently promoted to a post in same or other pay band, his fixation has to be made as per Rule 13. Even at this stage, the minimum of applicable pay band (PB-1 to PB-4) or scale (HAG or above) as applicable is to be ensured. The Department of Expenditure has approved for extending the benefits of the MACPS to the Central Autonomous/Statutory Bodies under various Ministries/Departments subject to satisfying the four conditions stipulated in DoPT’s letter dated 03.08.2010.

13/2020 31/2020 59

Consolidated guidelines regarding Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme for Railway employees on the basis of 7th CPC recommendations.

16/2020 34/2020 66

Board have decided that promotion from the post of ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) may not be reckoned for the purpose of MACPS. The benefit of MACPS ignoring promotion from ASM to SM shall be admissible w.e.f 16-2-2018.

26/2020 36/2020 75

Board have circulated detailed FAQ alongwith suitable illustrations regarding restriction of Officiating Pay under FR-35 (Rule 1329, IREC, Vol.II) in the context of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 in lieu of Charge Allowance.

-- 49/2020 94

Guidelines on protection of pay to the Central Government servant consequent to appointment to a new post in different service or cadre in Central Government, through direct recruitment where either higher duties and responsibilities are involved or not, as the case may be, under FR 22 – B(1) [Rule 1315 of IREC Vol.II], in the 7th CPC scenario.

69/2020 80/2020 142

The benefit of pay protection will be available to Direct Recruits appointed in Central Government to those posts for which the relevant Recruitment Rules prescribe a requirement of minimum number of years of experience in a specified area from the field sources (autonomous bodies, PSUs etc.) for appointment under the method of direct recruitment irrespective of whether the post is filled by the recruiting agency on the basis of interview or open competitive exam or combination of both.

70/2020 81/2020 146

Provisional fixation benefit under Rule 13 of -- 87/2020 158

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RS(RP) Rules, 2016 granted for promotion from Chief Matron to ANO, Sr.Technician to JE, LP(Goods) to LP(Pass), LP(Pass) to LP(Mail/Express) and Passenger Guard to Mail/Express Guard posts has now attained finality as concurred by Finance Directorate. Board have clarified that promotion earned in the new organization either to the same level (i.e. level from which the employee was reverted in the old organization before transfer) or to a higher level, is to be counted as an offset against entitlement for further financial upgradation under MACPS.

81/2020 93/2020 166

Board have decided to extend the benefit allowed under DoE’s OM dated 28.9.18 to employees promoted between 1.1.2006 to 31.12.2015 to a post having an element of direct recruitment by allowing re-fixation of pay of employees on the date of their regular promotion at the stage equivalent to the minimum entry level pay, if on the date of their regular promotion it is lower than the minimum entry level pay prescribed for direct recruits.

88/2020 99/2020 174

Board have decided that the benefit of not reckoning the promotion/financial upgradation from ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) for the purpose of MACPS would also be extended to such employees who have progressed to other cadres by way of lateral induction/selection or due to medical de-categorization.

100/2020 115/2020 196

Grant of financial upgradation under MACPS to Station Masters – RBE No.99/2020 may be read as RBE No.100/2020

105/2020 119/2020 201

1039 HOUSE BUILDING ADVANCE Interest rate on House Building Advance (HBA) for Railway employees from 01.10.2019 is 7.9% for a period of one year.

19/2020 25/2020 51

1040 HONORARIUM Board have advised that rates of Honorarium to Inquiry Officers revised vide Board’s letter dt.07.10.2015 will also be applicable to those Non-Vigilance cases in which Inquiry Officer has been appointed after the issue of the letter dt.07.10.2015.

-- 16/2020 42

1046 Leave Rules Board have decided that Study Leave may be granted to the selected candidates for NIS Diploma Course for the academic session 2020-21 as per the extant rules.

-- 121/2020 202

1051-13 Pay scales & Designations

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Board have circulated an FAQ on exercise of option for switching over to 7th CPC under Rule 5 & 6 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016.

-- 88/2020 159

1051-24 MISCELLENEOUS Filling up of posts in ongoing electrification projects undertaken by CORE – Zonal Railway concerned need not ask for option or willingness from any staff and arrange to post the technical/ non-technical staff working at any level after assessing suitability and requirement of the project.

79/2020 85/2020 151

1051 – 25 Productivity Linked Bonus PLB equivalent to 78 days wages to all eligible non-gazetted railway employees (excluding all RPF/RPSF personnel) for the financial year 2019-20 is circulated.

91/2020 100/2020 177

1051-28 Advance increments Prior to 09.07.2009: advance increments granted to sportspersons/coaches are treated as pay for all purpose and count for all benefits of pay on promotion, retirement benefits etc. are admissible. On or after 09.07.2009: Advance increments granted to sportspersons are to be drawn at the same rate till retirement and these increments are not counted for any service benefits like pay fixation on promotion, retirement benefits etc.

15/2020 22/2020 48

1056 Pass rules Railway Board have decided that CCPs (Complimentary Card Passes) issued to the recipients of PPMG and PMG Awardees will be valid for a period of two years from the date of issue of CCPs.

-- 02/2020 22

Amendment to Rule 4 of RSPR-1986 to provide for issuance of Passes/ PTOs in digitized/ electronic mode.

24/2020 32/2020 61

Board have advised all the Zonal Railways and Pus to take note of the instructions contained in Board’s letter dated 19.07.2019 wherein it was advised that ‘Pass Issuing Authorities shall discontinue the practice of mentioning the type of disability on the passes and indicate only as “PwD” wherever necessary’ and issue necessary instructions to all PIAs.

-- 42/2020 88

Competent authority in Commercial Directorate of Rly.Boardhas accorded approval for extension of validity of Passes/PTOs keeping in view the extraordinary circumstances of COVID-19.

45/2020 56/2020 108

Board have decided to extend the validity of Complimentary Card Passes(CCPs) to THREE

-- 58/2020 112

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years for all Gallantry Awardees (both Police and Defence) i.e., recipients of Chakra Awards, PMG and PPMG Awards. Boardhave circulated the guidelines for e-Privilege Pass/PTO Module of HRMS.

66/2020 75/2020 131

Boardhave circulated the instructions on modificationin the All India Leave Travel Concession (AILTC) Scheme to facilitate unblocking of PPA in exceptional circumstances.

74/2020 83/2020 149

Board have decided to extend the Special Cash Package (i.e., cash equivalent to deemed AILTC fare and Leave Encashment), on the same terms and conditions notified by MoF. The SCP will be admissible to all those eligible for AILTC facility in terms of Board’s letter dt.10.09.2018 and Privilege Pass Surrender Certificate will be a mandatory prerequisite for availing SCP.

95/2020 109/2020 185

Board have decided that issuance of physical passes may be extended up to 31.12.2020 with the corresponding extension of time for booking across PRS counters for serving employees as per the validity of the Passes. (ii) From 1st January, 2020 onwards the system may be invariably shifted to e-Pass module in respect of serving Railway employees. (iii) For pensioners, considering the logistical issues and considering the age factors of the end users, physical passes may continue to be issued to pensioners till 31.03.2021 with the corresponding extension of time for booking across PRS counters for pensioners as per the validity of Passes.

-- 113/2020 194

Board have decided only those unused Passes/PTOs of the Calendar Year 2020 will be allowed to be credited back on which no journey has been performed though reservation has been made and no depositing the physical Passes/PTOs to the respective Pass Issuing Authority (PIA).

114/2020 133/2020 235

1058 Pension Rules Revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners in 7th CPC – Board have circulated the corrigendum to Concordance Table No.29.

-- 64/2020 116

Board have circulated the instructions on regulation of pension and other retirement benefits of Railway servants who were on EOL/ unauthorized absence/suspension as on 01.01.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty.

-- 65/2020 119

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In order to avoid hardship of retiree and family members, it has been decided to dispense with the requirement of BSR code for processing all type of pension cases with immediate effect. Only the bank account detail along with IFSC will be taken for processing the pension claim.

55/2020 67/2020 122

Mobility of personnel – It has been decided that those employees who joined Central Government/Central Autonomous body under NPS during 1.1.2004 to 28.10.2009 after submitting technical resignation from Central Govt./Central Autonomous Body or a State Govt./ State Autonomous Body and who fulfill the conditions for counting of past service, may be given an option for induction in old pension scheme and to get their past service rendered in the Central/State Government or Central/State Autonomous Body counted for the purpose of pensionary benefits on their final retirement from the Central Govt./Central Autonomous Body.

-- 76/2020 133

Relaxation of Rule 96 of RS(Pension) Rules, 1993 – In order to avoid any hardship to the family of the deceased employee, it has been decided to relax the provisions of Rule 96 of RS(Pension) Rules, 1993 to the extent that if a claim for family pension in Form 10 along with death certificate and bank account details of the claimant has been received and Head of Office is satisfied about the bonafide of that claim, he shall sanction provisional family pension immediately and may initially continue for a period of six months from the date, following the date of death of the employee.

72/2020 77/2020 136

Board have issued instructions on grant of disability pension, comprising service element and disability element to pre-2006 disability pensioners, who were boarded out from service, with less than 10 years of qualifying service, due to an injury/disability, attributable to Govt. service.

73/2020 79/2020 140

Board have clarified that only details of disabled child or sibling along with disability certificate will suffice for processing the case of a dependent for co-authorisation in the PPO for family pension. Pensioners may not be persuaded to furnish information such as name of guardian, photo of guardian and their Bank account details.

RBA No. 68/2020

91/2020 163

It is decided that pension contribution payable in respect of a Government servant during the

93/2020 108/2020 183

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active period of his foreign service shall be based on the basic pay in the level (Pay Matrix) of the post held by him/her at the time of proceeding on foreign service. In respect of Government employees covered by NPS, 24% of basic pay + DA admissible from 01.01.2026 and 28% + DA admissible w.e.f 01.04.2019. Board have circulated the consolidated orders/instructions issued in implementation of the decisions taken by the Government on the recommendations of 7th CPC for revision of pension/family pension, with effect from 01.01.2016 of pre-2016 pensioner/family pensioners.

-- 126/2020 209

Railway Pensioners may submit Life Certificate from 1st November, 2020 onward, till 28th February, 2021.

RBA No.92/2020

132/2020 234

1059 National Pension System Grant of Additional benefits on death/disability of Government servants covered under National Pension System (NPS) – Railway servant/family member in the case of death of Railway servant or his discharge from service on account of invalidation/disability, is entitled to pension/family pension under old pension scheme under RS(Pension) Rules, 1993, if the Railway servant/family wants to subject to some conditions.

08/2020 15/2020 41

Board have decided that in all cases where the results for recruitment were declared before 01.01.2004 against vacancies occurring on or before 31.12.2003, the candidates declared successful for recruitment shall be eligible for coverage under RS(Pension) Rules, 1993. These candidates may be given a one-time option to be covered under RS (Pension) Rules, 1993. This option may be exercised by the Railway employees latest by 31.05.2020.

28/2020 37/2020 76

Instructions on grant of retirement gratuity and counting of service for gratuity on mobility of an NPS employee were circulated.

29/2020 39/2020 81

PFRDA have circulated the operational guidelines for National Pension Scheme Tier II – Tax Saver Scheme, 2020 (NPS-TTS)

82/2020 92/2020 165

Clarifications on coverage under RS(Pension) Rules, 1993 in place NPS in terms of DoPPW OM dated 17.02.2020.

84/2020 95/2020 169

1060 Promotion Rules Board have clarified that instructions contained in their letter dated 22.09.14 inter-alia, the

17/2020 24/2020 50

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erstwhile categories of Mate and Keyman have been shown designated as Track Maintainer Gr.I in GP Rs.2800 (Level-5) is meant to show only the standard/usual assignment of duties in the various grades of Track Maintainer category and it may be distinguished from the AVC and normal residency period for promotion in this category. Board have clarified that the minimum of 50% marks in aggregate may not be insisted upon in the case of those candidates who possess qualification higher than 12th (+2 stage) to appear in the selection for promotion as Junior Clerk, Office Clerk etc. against 16-2/3% promotional quota.

62/2020 74/2020 131

Board have advised that, it may not be a practical solution to offer promotion with retrospective effect, Zonal Railways have been requested that the selection process may be expedited to the extent feasible, taking any special measures during the lockdown etc.

71/2020 78/2020 140

1061 Provident Fund Rate of interest on SRPF for January 2020 to March 2020 is 7.9%.

21/2020 26/2020 52

Rate of Interest on State Railway Provident Fund is 7.1% for the period from April to June 2020.

-- 44/2020 89

State Railway Provident Fund – Rate of interest during the period July, 2020 – September, 2020 is fixed at 7.1%.

-- 68/2020 123

Rate of interest on PF during the year 2019-20 [October, 2020 – December, 2020] is fixed at 7.1%.

110/2020 125/2020 209

1062 Quarters Board have decided that Railway officers proceeding on deputation to State JV companies set up in partnership with Ministry of Railways shall be allowed retention of quarter up to a maximum limit of 02(two) quarters per Joint Venture in lieu of equivalent leased accommodation being made available to Railway by State JVs. This dispensation will be available for a period of 03 years from the date of expiry of the previous order i.e. from 12.08.2019.

06/2020 12/2020 39

Board has decided that Railway officers proceeding on deputation to National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) may be allowed to retain Railway quarters allotted to them in Delhi/NCR up to a maximum limit of 04 (four) quarters in lieu of equivalent leased accommodation being made available to Railways by NCRTC.

220/2019 13/2020 40

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Full Board have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting for officers and staff posted to East Central Railway may be further extended upto December, 2020.

22/2020 28/2020 55

Board have decided to allow suo-motu retention of railway accommodation by officers/staff for the period from17.03.2020 to 30.06.2020 on payment of licence fees. No damage rent will be charged for this period.

38/2020 51/2020 101

Board have in partial modification of their letter dated 19.05.2020 decided to allow additional 15 days i.e., up to 15.07.2020 to railway officers/staff on the same terms and conditions.

47/2020 59/2020 112

Board have further extended the retention of railway quarters at previous place of posting of Officers/staff posted to Modern Coach Factory/Raebareli beyond 30.06.2019 to 31.12.2020 on payment of normal rent.

59/2020 69/2020 124

Board have now decided that officers who have retained accommodation at the previous place of posting under existing rules on the specified date i.e. 14.02.2020 when quarter retention was allowed to Zonal Railways etc. the retention shall be regularized.

75/2020 90/2020 163

Board have decided that retention of Railway accommodation shall be allowed for the period from 17.03.2020 to 30.11.2020 by the officers/staff who were/are due to vacate their flats/houses during the above period. No damage rent will be charged for this period.

89/2020 &

61/2020

101/2020 178

Board have revised the flat rate of license fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation all over Indian Railways w.e.f 01.07.2020.

-- 110/2020 191

Board have decided that Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway officers/staff on deputation to DFCCIL in occupation of Railway accommodation in Delhi/NCR area shall be extended from 1st April, 2020 to 31st March, 2022.

97/2020 112/2020 193

Board have circulated the revised provisions on retention of Railway quarter on transfer, deputation, retirement etc.

99/2020 116/2020 197

Board, as a final one time measure, have decided to grant suo-moto retention for further one month i.e. upto 31st December, 2020 duly issuing necessary guidelines, to allow officers/staff to retain accommodation who were/are due to vacate their flats during the

103/2020 117/2020 198

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period from 17th March, 2020 to 30th November,2020. Board have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting in favour of officers/staff posted to Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW), Chittaranjan be allowed for a period of TWO (2) years on payment of normal rent.

115/2020 135/2020 237

Board have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting in favour of officers/staff posted to Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi be allowed for a period of TWO (2) years on payment of normal rent.

116/2020 136/2020 237

1063 Recruitment Rules Board have decided to restart the recruitment of sportspersons in Men football for the years 2019-20 & 2020-21 in two categories i.e., Junior & Senior/normal categories.

204/2019 03/2020 22

Clarifications on operation of New Post Based Roster for Direct Recruitment for SC, ST, OBC and EWS circulated.

209/2019 33/2020 62

Board have decided that henceforth the 20% DR quota of SSE may be transferred to the Promotional Quota (from JE to SSE) until the prohibition of DR intake into SSE continues. SSE posts may now be filled up 100% through promotion from JE as long as DR intake into SSE is kept on hold duly accommodating any pending inter railway transfer requests or any compassionate appointment cases in SSE that may have been approved.

27/2020 35/2020 74

Inclusion of Officers promoted on the basis of Sports achievements in Trial Committee – Board have made changes in Paras 8.1.6(iv), 8.2.11.1(iii), 8.1.7 & 8.2.11.2 of their letter dt.31.12.2010

25/2020 38/2020 80

Board has reiterated that in selection trials for recruitment against sports quota, trials by the Trial Committee shall be in the presence of all the members of the trail committee and recruitment committee.

44/2020 60/2020 113

Board have issued clarification on age group of Junior National Bridge Championship for the purpose of recruitment of sportspersons against Sports quota.

76/2020 89/2020 162

Board have decided that the category of Track Maintainers may also be made eligible to be considered for promotion to the posts of Technician-III (Level-2) in the

94/2020 107/2020 182

15

P.Way/Engineering Department. Board have issued comprehensive instructions on policy of appointment of TADK on the Railways.

102/2020 120/2020 201

Boardhave decided to delegate the power to Zonal Railways to grant additional increments to sportspersons for excellence of International and National level for the cases prior to 31.12.2010 also.

111/2020 127/2020 230

1064 Re-employment Re-engagement of retired employees in exigencies of service is a purely temporary and limited measure and it must be scrupulously ensured that such contractual engagement in no way affects adversely promotional prospects of serving regular employees.

-- 14/2020 41

Full Board have decided that General Manager’s may review and personally decide the quantum of re-engaged Group ‘C’ staff to continue only where it is absolutely necessary for safety reasons.

52/2020 62/2020 115

Board have decided that no retired employees should be re-engaged on expiry of the scheme on 02.12.2020. These instructions do not cover only staff engaged in para-medical category which has been allowed upto 31.12.2020.

113/2020 134/2020 236

1065 Reservation rules Board have decided to appoint a Liaison Officer of the level of JA Grade Officer or above in each Zonal Headquarters and Divisional Headquarters for enforcement of orders of reservations in posts and services of the Railways.

106/2020 124/2020 205

1067 Retirement Board have decided that Accident Free Service Award will be paid as per 7th CPC pay structure w.e.f.01.07.2017.

-- 08/2020 31

Board has decided that since charge allowance may have been paid w.e.f 01.01.2016 to 30.06.2017 at old rates which was admissible before 2016, the same may be reckoned for calculation of retirement benefits of employees who retired between the periods from 01.01.2016 to 30.06.2017.

14/2020 18/2020 44

Grant of annual increment due on 1st July to the employees retiring on 30th June of the year –Hon’ble High Court of A.P has observed that “A person who retires on the last working day would not be entitled for any increment falling due on the next day and payable next day thereafter, because he would not answer the tests in the

-- 53/2020 102

16

Fundamental Rules”. Boardhave advised to dispose off the pending representations on the issue on above position. Provisional pension may be sanctioned in accordance with Rule 91 and Rule 16(5) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993, initially for a period of 6 months from the date of retirement. Para 3(f) of the proforma for sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity will include the provision of Rule 16(8) of the RS(Pension) Rules, 1993 in cases of railway servant who have been allotted railway quarters and are in occupation of that at the time of retirement.

58/2020 73/2020 126

Guidelines on Periodic Review of Railway employees for strengthening of Administration under FR 56(j)/ (l) {Rules 1802(a)/ 1803(a)/ 1804(a) of IREC, Vol.II, 1987 Edition} – Premature Retirement.

78/2020 86/2020 151

Board have circulated the instructions/ guidelines regarding the requests received for voluntary retirement from service (VRS) from Persons with Disabilities.

108/2020 123/2020 203

1070 Selection Rules Classification of posts as Safety categories in Electrical and Mechanical Departments.

02/2020 07/2020 30

Board have issued clarifications in regard to filling up of the post of Instructors in recognized Training Institutes.

04/2020 11/2020 38

Board have clarified that qualification of MBA/HR can be treated equivalent to the qualification of MBA with relevant papers in Personnel Management for purpose of recruitment/selection of Staff & Welfare Inspector.

11/2020 21/2020 48

Filling up the post of Instructors in recognized Training Institutes – corrigendum: Final panel should be drawn in the order of merit.

39/2020 52/2020 101

Board have decided that the currency of the GDCE scheme (for filling up of 25% net direct recruitment quota vacancies in Group ‘C’ categories) may be extended for a further period of two years i.e., up to 31.03.2022.

49/2020 63/2020 116

Board have decided that in departmental selections to the posts of Station Master, ALPs and Motormen, employees should be called for appearing in the Aptitude Test, either a day prior to the actual date of holding of the test, or on the same day as may be needed in future. Other terms and conditions contained in Board’s letter

87/2020 98/2020 173

17

dt.29.03.2005 (SC No.61/2005) remains unchanged. 1074 Special Casual Leave Board have decided to grant 30 days Special Casual Leave during one calendar year to the Railway employees for pursuing Mountaineering and Coursed besides trekking expeditions, subject to the course being organized by YHAI or has the approval of IMF for 30 days in a calendar year.

-- 10/2020 32

Correction Slip No.8 to MSOP, 2018 – Grant of Special Casual Leave to Gazetted/Non-Gazetted employees for absence due to Bandh, Curfew & other disturbances – regarding was circulated.

-- 41/2020 85

1077 Training Revised rates of stipend with effect from 25.09.19 to the Trade Apprentices engaged on the Indian Railways under the Apprentices Act, 1961.

202/2019 04/2020 23

Payment of stipend to apprentices and reimbursement of stipend to establishments under NAPS during COVID-19 lockdown - The period of apprenticeship training of an Apprentice shall be extended for a period equal to the period of strike or lockout or layoff, as the case may be, and shall be paid stipend during the period of such strike or lockout or layoff or for a maximum period of six months, whichever is less.

37/2020 47/2020 93

Board have circulated the revised rates of stipend of Ticket Collector consequent upon revision of Grade Pay of Ticket Collectors from GP Rs.1900 to GP Rs.2000.

80/2020 96/2020 172

Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazetted Staff of Electrical Department.

10/2020 102/2020 179

Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazetted Staff of Mechanical Department (Supervisors)

32/2020 103/2020 179

Revised Training Modules for New Assistant Loco Pilots for Dual Traction (Induction training as well as Conversion training programme).

41/2020 104/2020 180

Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazetted Staff of Signal & Telecommunication Department.

42/2020 105/2020 181

Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazetted Staff of Mechanical Department (Non-Supervisors)

191/2019 106/2020 181

Board have decided to release the payment of withheld stipend to trainees for the period they stayed back at home, subject to a maximum period of six months, due to nation-wise Lockdown imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

109/2020 122/2020 203

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1078 Transfers The unimplemented periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts be reviewed and pended till 31st July, 2020 due to the extraordinary situation created by the pandemic COVID-19.

-- 48/2020 94

Board have decided that the periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts be pended till 31st March, 2021 in view of the ongoing pandemic situation.

65/2020 70/2020 125

Board has decided that NOC issued by the receiving Railway should be valid for a period of six months, and if transfer of the employees concerned are not effected within this period, the NOC in such cases should be mandatorily revalidated. The employees should be relieved on transfer only after re-confirming the validity of the NOC.

85/2020 97/2020 173

****

19

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.01/2020 No. P[R] 481/XI Date: 06.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2017/R-I/7 dated 18.12.2019 [RBE No.212/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 31.07.2017 and 31.08.2018 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 107/2017 and 154/2018, respectively.

The one month period mentioned in Para 5 of Board’s letter shall be one month from the date of issue of this circular for receipt of such options from eligible employees. Wide publicity may be given amongst the staff on the Division/Unit.

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2017/R-I/7 dated 18.12.2019 [RBE No.212/2019] PC-VII No.147

Sub: Date of next increment under Rule 10 of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016-regarding.

***** Consequent to implementation of 7th CPC recommendations, various doubts have arisen over the issue of Date of Next Increment (DNI) in case of an employee promoted or granted financial upgradation including upgradation under MACP on 1st July, 2016, whose pay was fixed on 01.07.2016 in terms of the rules governing fixation of pay on promotion. 2. Clarification on the above issue was provided by Ministry of Finance/Department of Expenditure vide their OM No. 4-21/2017-IC/E.III(A) dated 31.07.2018 which was adopted in Railways vide letter No.PC-VII/2017/R-I/7 dated 31.08.2018 [RBE No.126.2018].

3. In continuation to above, Ministry of Finance/ Department of Expenditure vide their OM No. 4-21/2017-IC/E.III(A) dated 28.11.2019 (copy enclosed) has provided further clarifications on the following issues:-

Issue No.1: Whether after promotion on 1st July and fixation of pay with two increments, the date of next increment will be 1st January or 1st July.

Issue No.2: Accrual of next increment in case of regular promotion/financial up-gradation of an employee on any date other than the date of annual increment and option for fixation of pay is exercised under FR 22(1)(a)(1).

(Note: Department of Personnel & Training vide their OM.No. 13/02/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 27.07.2017 provided clarification on availability of option for fixation of pay on promotion from the Date of Next Increment (DNI) in the lower post and method of pay fixation from DNI, if opted for, in context of CCS (RP) Rules, 2016. The same was adopted in Railways vide Board’s Letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/6/2 dated 31.07.2017 (RBE.No.79/2017).

20

4. The clarification issued by Ministry of Finance/Department of Expenditure as mentioned above shall be applicable mutatis mutandis in Railways too with respect to Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016.

5. The ‘one month’ period mentioned in para 7 of aforesaid OM dated 28.11.2019 of Ministry of Finance/Department of Expenditure shall be one month from the date of issue of these instructions.

sd/- (Jaya Kumar G) DD. Pay Commission-VII

Copy of Ministry of Finance DOE’s OM.No.4-21/2017-IC/E.IIIA dated 28.11.2019

Sub: Date of next increment under Rule 10 of Central Civil Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016- Clarification-regarding.

***** The undersigned is directed to invite the attention to Rule 10 of the CCS (RP) Rules, 2016 which provides for the entitlement of employees for drawal of annual increment either on 1st January or 1st July depending on the date of appointment, promotion or grant of financial upgradation. The Sub-Rule (2) thereof provides that increment in respect of an employee appointed or promoted or granted financial up-gradation including up-gradation under Modified Assured Carrier Progression scheme (MACPS) during the period between the 2nd day of January and 1st day of July (both inclusive) shall be granted on 1st day of January and the increment in respect of an employee appointed or promoted or granted financial up-gradation under MACPS during the period between the 2nd day of July an 1st day of January (both inclusive) shall be granted on 1st day of July.

2. A number of references were received in the Ministry of Finance seeking clarification regarding drawal of next increment by the employees promoted on 1st July, 2016. On consideration of the matter, Department of Expenditure vide it’s Office Memorandum of even number dated 31.07.2018 has clarified that in case an employee is promoted or granted financial up-gradation including up-gradation under MACP scheme on 1st January or 1st July, where the pay is fixed in the Level applicable to the post on which promotion is made in accordance with the Rule 13 of the of CCS (RP) Rules, 2016, the first increment in the Level applicable to the post on which promotion is made shall accrue on the following 1st July or 1st January, as the case may be, provided a period of 6 months qualifying service is strictly fulfilled. The next increment thereafter shall, however, accrue only after completion of one year.

3. Consequent upon issues of Office Memorandum dated 31.07.2018 different Ministries/Departments have sought clarification on applicability of DOE’s O.M. dated 31.07.2018 keeping in view the provisions of Rule 10 of CCS (RP) Rules, 2016, Rule 22(1)(a)(1) of Fundamental Rules & provisions of Stepping up of pay. The issues on which various Ministries/Departments have sought clarifications and decisions thereon are brought in the succeeding paragraphs.

21

Issue No.1: Whether after promotion on 1st July and fixation of pay with two increments, the date of next increment will be 1st January or 1st July.

4. During the regime of 6th CPC, when the annual increment was admissible uniformly on 1st July every year, employee completing 6 months and above in the revised pay structure as on 1st July were eligible for grant of increment. In the 7th CPC regime there are two dates of increments 1st January and 1st July. Keeping in view the spirit of 6th CPC, O.M dated 31.07.2018 was issued providing for accrual of next increment on 1st July/1st January in respect of employees getting promotion on 1st January/1st July provided 6 months qualifying service is strictly fulfilled.

5. The instructions contained in the O.M dated 31.07.2018 are self-explanatory in respect of the cases of promotion/financial up-gradation falling on 1st July or 1st January. These instructions provide that in case of promotion/financial up-gradation on 1st July or 1st January and getting fixation of pay in the Level applicable to the post in which promotion is made in accordance with Rule 13 of the CCS (RP) Rules 2016, the first increment in the Level in which promotion is made shall accrue on the following 1st January or 1st July, as the case may be, provided a period of 6 months’ qualifying service is fulfilled.

Issue No.2: Accrual of next increment in case of regular promotion/financial up-gradation of an employee on any date other than the date of annual increment and option for pay fixation is exercised under FR 22(I)(a)(1).

6. The opportunity to exercise of option for pay fixation under FR 22(I)(a)(1) is available to employees in case of promotion/financial up-gradation. Therefore, the Central Government Employee promoted on regular basis/granted financial up-gradation on any date other than the date of his/her annual increment in lower grade and exercises the option under FR 22(I)(a)(1) read with Department of Personnel & Training’s OM No.13/02/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 27.07.2017 for fixation of pay from the date of accrual of next increment in the scale of pay in lower grade, he may be allowed the 1st increment in promotional grade on 1st January/ 1st July as the case may be after completion of 6 months’ qualifying service after such fixation on 1st July/1st January (i.e the date of increment in lower grade) on the analogy of Department of Expenditure’s OM dated 31.07.2018. The next increment, thereafter, shall however, accrue only after completion of one year.

7. Since there is material change, it has also been approved that the employees who have been regularly promoted or granted financial up-gradation on or after 01.01.2016 and desire to exercise/re-exercise option for pay fixation under FR 22(I)(a)(1) shall be given an opportunity to exercise or re-exercise of the option there under. Such an option shall be exercised within one month of issue of this O.M.

8. These instructions will be applicable with effect from 01.01.2016.

22

9. In so far as persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department are concerned, these orders issue after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

***** PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 02/2020

No. P[R]473/X dated 06.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(W)/2009/PS5-10/2 dated 11.12.2019 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 23.02.1996, 29.10.1996, 06.10.2004, 01.04.2013 and 22.07.2013 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos.69/1996, 142/1996, 189/2004, 32/2013 and 67/2013, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(W)/2009/PS5-10/2 dated 11.12.2019 Sub: Extension of validity period of Complimentary Card Passes (CCPs) issued to the recipients of President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) and Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG) Awardees.

***** Please refer to Board’s letters dated 23.02.1996, 29.10.1996, 06.10.2004, 01.04.2013 and 22.07.2013 regarding grant of facility of 1st Class/2nd AC CCPs to the recipients of PPMG and PMG Awardees with a validity period of one year from the date of issue. Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) have now decided that CCPs issued to aforesaid recipients will be valid for a period of two years from the date of issue of CCPs. All other terms and conditions will remain the same.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.03/2020 No. P[R] 563/XIII Date: 06.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/E(Sports)/RSPB/2/7(FBL) dated 26.11.2019 [RBE No.204/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/E(Sports)/RSPB/2/7(FBL) dated 26.11.2019 [RBE No.204/2019, clarification/corrigendum No.108]

Sub: Recruitment of Men Football players on Indian Railways. *****

Attention is invited to letter No.2015/RSPB/2(15)/6 FBL dated 06.09.2017 wherein it was decided not to recruit men footballers under sports quota till further directives. 2. In view of requests received from various zones, discussion made during AGM of RSPB for participation of Indian Railways team in Senior Men Football Nationals for Santosh Trophy, the matter has been reviewed.

23

3. It has been decided by Board (MS), utilizing his powers to grant age relaxation for sports recruitment under talent scouting quota, to restart the recruitment of sportspersons in Men football for the years 2019-20 & 2020-21 in two categories i.e., Junior & Senior/normal categories as under: (a) Under Junior category (under Talent Scouting Quota): For 2019-20: players born on or after 01.01.2001 and on or before 01.04.2003. For 2020-21: players born on or after 01.01.2002 and on or before 01.04.2004. (b) Senior/normal category (both Talent scouting and open advertisement): sportsperson in the age group of 18-25 years not covered in (a) above. However, the number of such recruitees will not exceed the number of men footballers recruited by railway/unit in the junior category as mentioned in (a) above. This issues with the prior approval of Board (MS) and President/RSPB.

***** PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.04/2020

No. P[R]96/III Date: 06.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(MPP)/2018/6/1 dated 26.11.2019 [RBE No.202/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(MPP)/2018/6/1 dated 26.11.2019 [RBE No.202/2019]

Sub: Forwarding the Gazetted Notification No.G.S.R.686 (E) dated 25.09.2019- regarding enhancement of rates of stipend for Act Apprentices under the apprentice Act, 1961 and amendments in the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992.

***** Please refer to Ministry of Railways letters No. E(MPP)/2007/6/3 dated

23.08.2007 (RBE No.109/2007), dated 09.03.2011 (RBE No.31/2011), E(MPP)/2013/6/7 dated 15.01.2014 (RBE No.08/2014 and E(MPP)/2015/6/2 dated 09.03.2015 (RBE No.16/2015).

It has been decided that the Trade Apprentices engaged on the Indian Railways under the Apprentices Act. 1961 should be paid stipend with effect from 25.09.2019 at revised rates as notified in the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneur’s Notification No.G.S.R.686 (E) published in Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i) of Section 37 of Apprentices Act 1961 (52 of 1961) the Gazette of India on 25th September, 2019 (copy of the notification enclosed). The expenditure should be met from within the existing budget allotment.

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

Sd/- (Ajay Jha) JD/[MPP]

24

MINISTRY OF SKILL DEVEOPMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP NOTIFICATION

New Delhi, the 25th September, 2019

G.S.R.686(E):- In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section 1 of section 37 of the Act Apprentices Act, 1961 (52 of 1961) and after consulting the Central Apprenticeship Council, the Central Government hereby makes the following rules further to amend the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992, namely:-

1 (1) These rules may be called the Apprenticeship (Amendment) Rules, 2019.

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

2. In the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992 (hereinafter referred to as the principal rules) in rule 2.

(i) After clause (1) the following clause shall be inserted, namely:-

“(1A) “ Degree apprentice “ means an apprentice undergoing a course in order that he may hold a degree granted by any recognised institution or university and undergoing apprenticeship training as an integrated component of the curricula.

(ii) After clause (3), the following clause shall inserted, namely:-

“(3A) “Fresher apprentice: means a non-graduate apprentice, who has not undergone any institutional training or skill training before taking up on the job training or practical training under the Apprentices Act 1961.

(iii) After clause (4), the following clause shall inserted, namely:-

“(4A) “National or State Certificate holder” means person, who holds a certificate issued by National Council for Vocational Training or State Council for Vocational Training or any authority recognized by Central Government for awarding such certificates or any other successor entity for vocational training of one year and more.

(iv) After clause (6), the following clause shall inserted, namely:-

“(6A) “Regional Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship” means the regional offices of the Directorate General of Training which is an attached office of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

(v) After clause (7), the following clause shall inserted, namely:-

(7A) “School pass out” is a person, who has done his or her schooling from a recognized School or Board.

(7AA) “Sector Skill Council” means an industry led organization set up as an autonomous body as provided under National Skill Qualifications Framework by National Skill Development Corporation or any other body as decided by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

(7AAA) “Skill Certificate holder” means a person, who holds a skill certificate for training of less than one year, issued by an awarding body recognized under National Skills

25

Qualifications Framework or any other authority recognized by the Central government in this regard.

3. In rule principal rules, in rule 7A.

(i) for sub-rule (3) the following sub- rule shall be substituted namely:-

“(3) The period of apprenticeship training for optional trade shall be a minimum of six months to a maximum of three years.

(ii) sub-rule (8) sub-rule (10) sub-rule (11) sub-rule (12) and sub-rule (13 shall be omitted.

(iii) sub-rule (17), the following sub-rule shall be inserted, namely:-

“(18) (a) Every apprentice undergoing apprenticeship training in an establishment shall be a trainee and not a worker.

(b) The provisions of any law with respect to labour shall not apply to or in relation to such an apprentice”

4. In the principal rules, in rule 7B.

(i) for sub-rule (1), the following sub-rule shall be substituted, namely:-

(1) The employees having four or more workers shall only be eligible to engage apprentice and engagement of apprentices by establishment having thirty or more number of workers shall be obligatory.

(ii) for sub-rule (3) and (4), the following sub-rules shall respectively be substituted, namely:-

(3) Within a financial year, each establishment shall engage apprentices in a band of 2.5 per cent to 15 per cent of the total strength of the establishment including contractual staff, subject to a minimum of 5 per cent of the total to be reserved for fresher apprentices and skill certificate holder apprentices.

(4) In no month, number of apprentices should be less than 2 per cent of the total strength of the establishment and more than 18 per cent of the total strength of the total establishment subject to the condition that he shall fulfil apprentice months corresponding to minimum 2.5 per cent obligation in a financial year.

5. In the principal rules, in rule 11


(1) The minimum rate of stipend payable to apprentices per month shall be as per the qualifications stipulated in the curriculum. The minimum rate of stipend payable to apprentices per month shall be follows, namely.

26

S.No. Category Prescribed minimum amount of stipend

(1) (2) (3) (i) School pass-outs (class 5th – class 9th) Rs. 5000 per month (ii) School pass-outs (class 10th) Rs. 6000 per month (iii) School pass-outs (class 12th) Rs. 7000 per month (iv) National or State Certificate holder Rs. 7000 per month (v) Technician (vocational) apprentice or Vocational

Certificate holder or Sandwich Course (Students from Diploma Institutions)

Rs. 7000 per month

(vi) Technician apprentice or diploma holder in any stream or sandwich course (Students from Degree Institutions)

Rs. 8000 per month

(vii) Graduate apprentices or degree apprentices or degree in any stream.

Rs. 9000 per month

(1A) In this case of Skill Certificate Holder, stipend payable per month shall be as per his/her educational qualification as mentioned in the table above.

(1AA) During the second year of apprenticeship training, there shall be an increase of 10 per cent in the prescribed minimum stipend amount and further 15 per cent increase in the prescribed minimum stipend amount during the third year of apprenticeship training.

(1AAA) In the case of National or State Certificate holder the period of training already undergone by him or her in a school or other institution recognized by the National Council or State Council, shall be taken into account for the purpose of determining the minimum payable rate of stipend.

(1AAAA) In the case of Fresher apprentice, during Basic Training for a period up to three months, the stipend amount to be paid by the establishment shall be 50 per cent. of the prescribed stipend. Further, in case of simultaneous Basic Training (BT) and On- the –Job Training full amount of the stipend is to be paid.

(i) for sub-rule (2) shall be omitted,

6. In the principal rules, in rule 12’


(2) An establishment can engage apprentices of age eighteen and above in normal working hours of the establishment. Apprentices under the age of eighteen shall be engaged in such training between the hours of 8.00 am and 6.00 pm. Any relaxation in the same shall be approved by the Apprenticeship Adviser, on case to case basis.

(ii) for sub-rule (3) shall be omitted,

7. In the principal rules, in the Schedule – 1.

(i) Under Group No.14 relating to the “Printing Group of Trades- (iv) Litho Offset group” against serial numbers 2.

(a) In column 5, the entry “1 Litho Offset Machine Minder” shall be inserted.

27

(b) In column 6, against item 1 relating to Litho Offset Machine Minder the “One year” shall be inserted.

(ii) Under Group No. 21, relating to the “Leather Crafts Trades Group” against serial number 2,

(a) In column, 5 in place of the entry “Manufacturer of suitcase and other Leather Goods” the entry “1 Manufacturer of suitcase and other Leather goods” shall be substituted.

(b) In column 5, after the existing entry, the entry “2 leather goods maker” shall be inserted.

(c) In column 6, against item 2 relating to Leather goods maker, the entry “One year” shall be inserted.

(iii) Under Group No.21 relating to the “Leather Crafts Trades Group” against serial number 3.

(a) In column 5, in place of the entry “ Manufacture of Footwear, the entry “1 Manufacturer of footwear “ shall be substituted.

(b) In column 6, against item 1 relating to Manufacturer of Footwear, the entry “One year” shall be substituted.

(c) In column 5, after the existing entry , the entry ‘2 Footwear Maker” shall be inserted;

(d) In column 6,against item 2 relating to Footwear Maker, the entry “One year” shall be inserted

(iv) Under Group No.35, relating to the “Centre of Excellence Trades Group Leather Craft Trades Group” against serial number 38.

(a) In column 5, after the existing entry, the entry “2 Computer Hardware and Network Technician” shall be inserted:

(b) In column 6, against item 2 relating to Computer Hardware and Network Technician, the entry “One year” shall be inserted.

8. In the principal rules, in SCHEDULE- V’-

(i) Under paragraph 1 relating to “Obligations of Employer” for item 5b and the entries relating thereto:-the following shall be substituted namely:-

(5b) An establishment can engage apprentices of age eighteen and above in normal working hours of the establishment, Apprentices under the age of eighteen shall be engaged in such training between the hours of 8.00 am and 6.00 pm. Any relaxation in the same shall be approved by the Apprenticeship Adviser, on case to case basis.

Note: The principal rules were published in the Gazette of India vide notification number G.S.R. 356 dated the 15th July, 1992 and last amended vide notification number G.S.R. 1525(E) dated the 20th December ,2017.

*****

28

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.05/2020 No. P[R]268/II Date: 09.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2016/RC-1/CR/12 (Pt) dated 30.12.2019 [RBE

No.218/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 02.01.1992 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 05/1992.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2016/RC-1/CR/12 (Pt) dated 30.12.2019 [RBE No.218/2019]

Sub: Appointment on Compassionate Grounds- cases of second wife and her wards.

***** Attention is invited to Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/91/RC-1/136 dated 02.01.1992

[RBE No.01/1992) wherein it has been laid down that in the case of railway employee dying in harness, etc. leaving more than one widow along with children born to the second wife, while settlement dues may be shared by both widows due to Court orders or otherwise on merits of each case, appointment on compassionate grounds to the second widow and her children are not be considered unless the administration has permitted the second marriage in special circumstances, taking into account the personal law, etc.

2. In the case of Union of India vs. V.R.Tripathi, the Hon’ble Supreme Court had, vide their order dated 11.12.2018 in OA No.12015/2018 (arising out of SLP (C) No.32004/2016) dismissed on merits the Appeal filed against the Hon’ble Bombay High Court’s Order WP No.910/2015 and in WP No.892/2015 in two Central Railway cases that permitted consideration for grant of compassionate appointment to the child of the 2nd wife of the deceased Railway employee. Subsequently, several other judgments of Hon’ble High Courts have been received in which consideration for grant of compassionate ground appointment to a child born to the 2nd wife of the employee has been directed based on similar ratio.

3. The matter has, therefore, been reviewed by Board in view of above Judicial pronouncements considering also the views of the Central Agency Section of the Ministry of Law & Justice. In partial supersession of Board’s Circular No. E(NG)II/91/RC-1/136 dated 02.01.1992 (RBE No.1/1992) referred to, it has now been decided that children born to the second wife may also be considered for compassionate appointment even where the second marriage has not been specifically permitted by the administration. However, since compassionate appointment after demise of the Railway employee can be considered for granting to only one dependent family member on merits, a child born to the second wife can be considered for such appointment only after ascertaining that there is no objection to this from the first wife or her children. Where the first wife (legally wedded wife) opts for such compassionate

29

appointment either for herself or one of her own children, such claim will have priority over any competing claim made by the second wife for any of her children.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.06/2020 No. P[R]268/II Date: 13.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2018/RR-1/31 dated 30.12.2019 [RBE

No.217/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 25.10.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 188/2018, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2018/RR-1/31 dated 30.12.2019 [RBE No.217/2019]

Sub: Compassionate Ground Appointment as Sr. Section Engineer (SSE). *****

Consequent upon temporary ban on direct recruitment of SSE vide Board’s letters No. E(NG)/2018/RR-1/31 dated 25.10.2018, Board had clarified vide letter dated 06.03.2019 that this temporary ban on DR intake of SSEs does not apply to Compassionate Ground Appointments (CGA).

2. In the ongoing JE recruitment conducted by RRB, lakhs of B.Tech graduates have applied. Earlier recruitment data also suggests that though Diploma is the minimum qualification for DR intake into JE through RRB examinations, a majority of those eventually selected on merit were indeed B.Tech candidates. In such a competitive milieu, therefore, it would be adequate and reasonable for B.Tech qualified CGA to be generally not considered for grades higher than JE in GP 4200/ Level-6, if found suitable for the same.

3. While SSE is the most common post in the grade of GP 4600/ Level-7 to which CG appointments, whenever approved in the grade of Level-7, are made, there are other posts like CLA/Public Prosecutor, Staff Nurse, Teachers in this grade too where DR exists and where CGA can, therefore, be offered as per extant provisions. DR intake into these categories has not been stopped.

4. In view of the above, the need for restricting CGA into Apex Group ‘C’ Level-7 (GP 4600) for SSEs and all such categories has been considered carefully by Board. Balancing the objectives of the need for compassion to deceased employee’s family to extend to a reasonable Level with the need for quality intake at senior supervisory levels and the fierce level of competition in open market recruitment to these categories, it has been decided that:-

(a) CGA into SSE grade to be ordinarily avoided.

30

(b) Wherever CGA into SSE is being recommended in rare cases (such as where candidate has graduated from premier institutions such as IITs or NITs); the case be recommended to HQ for consideration by an SAG Committee nominated by GM. Papers to be set to be of adequate technical standard.

(c) Recommendation of any case as at (b) above, is contingent to the candidate passing the general qualifying examination for lower Group- ‘C’ posts along with other CG applications, and in the first attempt.

5. Analogous procedure/ protocol as cited at para-4 above be followed for considering CGA into Level-7 into the other eligible categories where DR is permissible, including those categories mentioned at para-3 above.

6. Past cases already decided otherwise need not be reopened.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/2010/PM1/19 dated 06.01.2020 [RBE

No.02/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 31.05.1982 and 19.02.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 130/1982 and 93/2019 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/2010/PM1/19 dated 06.01.2020 [RBE No.02/2020]

Sub: Filling up of non-gazetted posts on Railways – Clarification of posts as Safety Categories in Electrical and Mechanical Department.

***** Pursuant in the acceptance of recommendations of High Powered Committee constituted to review the list of safety category posts on the Railways, the list of safety category posts in the Electrical and Mechanical Departments has been reviewed in consultation with the concerned Departments. Accordingly, in modification of the existing list of Safety category posts in the Electrical and Mechanical Departments, as contained in Board’s letter No. E(NG)II-75/PM1/44 dated 31.05.1982, and No. E(NG)I/2018/PM1/51 dated 19.02.2019, the list of posts as mentioned below have been classified as belonging to Safety category in these Departments: S.No. Posts 1. Assistant Loco Pilots, Loco Pilots (Goods/Mail/Passenger)/Loco Pilots

(shunting), Loco Inspectors/Driving Instructions, Power Controller/Traction Loco Controller/Traction Power Controller/Traction Sub-Station Operator, Crew Controllers in all grades.

2. SSEs/JEs of Open line and Workshops including loco sheds & depots. 3. Technicians (including Sr.Technicians) of all grades in the trades of Fitter,

Electrician. Millwright, Welder, Machinist/Turner, Riveter, Blacksmith, Motor Vehicle Driver, Tower Wagon Driver, Motor Trolley Driver, Auto/Forklift/Crane Driver, Traverse Driver, Slinger and Gunner in Open Line and

31

Workshop/Depot, Loco Sheds/DEMU/MEMU Sheds, in TRD and TL/AC of Elect. (G)

4. SPA/Machine, Pump, Compressor Operator. 5. Assistants in Level-1 (erstwhile Helper Grade-II and Grade-I Khalasi/Khalasi

Helper) attached to Supervisors and Technicians listed in SN-2 above.

The existing terms and conditions regulating filling up of Safety category posts continue to remain in force.

These instructions will be effective from date of issue.

*** PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.08/2020

No. P[R] 583/Awards/Rewards Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/Safety(DM)/18/2 dated 13.01.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/Safety(DM)/18/2 dated 13.01.2020

Sub: Accident Free service award to the employee retired after 01.01.2016.

Ref: Board’s letter of even no. dated 28.11.2018.

*****

Vide Board’s letter referred above, it was clarified that the Accident Free Service Award to the staff retired after 01.01.2016 shall be paid as per the salary structure of 7th CPC and no arrears shall be admissible to whom the award is already disbursed.

2. Various Railways have brought out that some of the staff that had retired between 01.01.2016 & 28.11.2018 have been paid Accident Free Service Award as per 6th CPC pay structure while some of them have still not been paid the award due to various reasons and would therefore, be eligible for award as per 7th CPC pay structure. This would lead to different treatment meted out to two sets of staff retired during the same period.

3. In this respect, Board has examined the matter and it has been decided that the Accident Free Service Award will be paid as per 7th CPC pay structure w.e.f. 01.07.2017, the date on which revised rate of allowances as per the 7th CPC came into effect. Therefore, the staff who have retired between 01.07.2017 & 28.11.2018 and have been paid as per 6th CPC pay structure will be eligible for payment of arrears of the Accident Free Service Award as per 7th CPC pay structure.

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

*****

32

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.09/2020 No. P[R] 436/IREM/VIII Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(GP)2005/2/69 dated 16.01.2020 [RBE.No.05/2020]

is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(GP)2005/2/69 dated 16.01.2020 [RBE.No.05/2020]

Sub: Amendment to IREM Volume I. *****

In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution, the President is pleased to direct that the Indian Railway Establishment Manual Vol.I, Revised Edition-1989 (First Re-print Edition-2009), may be amended as in the Advance Correction Slip No.271 enclosed.

INDIAN RAILWAYS ESTABLISHMENT MANUAL, Vol. I

(Revised Edition-1989, First Re-print Edition-2009)

Advance Correction Slip No.271

Chapter II, Section ‘A’.. Rules governing promotion of Group ‘C’ staff to Group ‘B’ posts. 1. Para 203.1 For the existing para 203.1, substitute the following:

Group ‘C’ employees working in Level 6 and above in Pay Matrix with 3 years of non-fortuitous service in Level 6 and above in Pay Matrix (including non-fortuitous service rendered in the corresponding pre-revised grade pay) are eligible for Group ‘B’ Selections (70% quota) in the departments having organised services.

For Selections for promotion to Group ‘B’ posts in Accounts department, Group ‘C’ employees fulfilling the abovementioned condition should also have qualified the Appendix-3 IREM Examination.

(Authority: Ministry of Railways letter Nos. E(GP)2019/2/25 dated 27.12.2019)

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.10/2020 No. P[R] 418/III Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2019/LE-1/9 dated 26.12.2019 is published for

information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 02.02.1990 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 31/1990 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2019/LE-1/9 dated 26.12.2019

33

Sub: Grant of Special Casual Leave to the Railway employees for Mountaineering/training cum trekking expeditions for 30 days in a calendar year.

Ref:- i) Board’s letter No.E(W)89SP1-5 dated 02.02.1990.

ii) DOP&Ts O.MS- (a) No.6/1/85 Estt. (Pay-I) dated 16.07.1985, (b) No.6/1/85-Estt. (Pay-I) dated 07.11.1988 & (c) No.28016/3/89-Estt (A) dated 25.10.1989.

*****

Pursuant to the issue of DOP&Ts OM.No.125/1/2015-16/CCSCSB dated 04.12.2015 in connection with Scheme for promotion of Adventure Sports and similar activities amongst Central Government employees, it has been decided now to grant 30 days Special Casual Leave during one calendar year to the Railway employees for pursuing Mountaineering Courses besides trekking expeditions subject to the following conditions that:-

(i) The course is organized by YHAI (Youth Hostels Association of India) or has the approval IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) for 30 days in a calendar year.

(ii) The Special Casual Leave to be given to an employee does not exceed 30 days in a calendar year.

Apart from the above, all the instructions contained in DOP&Ts O.M. mentioned above may be followed.

Copy of Ministry of Railways/Rail Mantralaya letter No.E(W)89 SP 1-5 dated 02.02.1990 (RBE No.21/1990)

Sub: Grant of Special Casual Leave to the Railway servants participating in Trekking Expeditions.

***

Reference this Ministry’s letter No.E(W)85 SP 1-4 dated 16.07.1985 regarding regulation of absence from duly of Railway servants participating in Trekking Expeditions by grant of Special Casual Leave (SCL) not exceeding 30 days in a calender year subject inter alia to the condition that the expedition has the approval of the Indian Mountaineering Federation.

I. (a) that the expedition is organised by Youth Hostels Association of India or has the approval of the Indian Mountaineering Federation ; and (b) there will be no change in the overall limit of 30 days of special casual leave for an individual Railway servant for one calender year for participating in ordinary sporting events.

34

II. The period of absence in excess of 30 days should be treated as regular leave of the kind admissible under the leave rules applicable to the persons concerned. For this purpose Railway servants may be permitted as a special case, to combine special casual leave with regular leave.

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

Name of Govt. Apex Body may be read as “Indian Mountaineering Federation” in place of “Indian Mountaineering Federation” vide Railway Board’s letter No.E(Sports)98/Mountaineering/SCL dated 7.3.2000.

Special Casual Leave and Special Passes for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi) vide Railway Board’s letter No.E(Sports)2005/Policy/15(KMY/SCL) dated 21.3.2000.

***

DOP&Ts OM.No.6/1/85-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 16.07.1985

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub:- Participation by Central Government Servants in sporting events and tournaments of national or international importance.

*****

At present Special casual leave is granted to Central Government servants for a period not exceeding 30 days in any one calendar year for.

(i) Participating in sporting events of national/international importance;

(ii) coaching/administration of teams participating in sporting events of national/ international importance;

(iii) attending coaching or training camps under Rajkumari Amrit Kaur Coaching Scheme or similar All India Coaching or Training Schemes;

(iv) attending coaching or training camps at the National Institute of Sports, Patiala;

(v) participating in mountaineering expeditions;

(vi) attending coaching camps in sports organised by National Sports Federation/Sports Boards recognised by All India Council of Sports; and

(vii) participating in trekking expeditions;

2. Special Casual Leave is also granted to Central Government servants for a period not exceeding 10 days in any one calendar year for participating in inter-ministerial and inter-departments and sporting events held in and outside Delhi.

35

3. The Government of India have had under consideration for some time past the question of granting some further incentives/facilities to sportsmen and sportswomen. The matter has been examined and the President.

DOP&Ts OM.No.6/1/85-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 07.11.1988

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub:- Participation by Central Government servants in sporting events and tournaments of national or inter-national importance.

***** In accordance with the provision contained in this Department’s Office

Memorandum No.6/1/85-Estt.(Pay-I) dated the 16th July, 1985, Central Government employees who participate in sporting events and tournaments of national or international importance are granted special increment(s) in the form of personal pay not to be absorbed in future increments in pay. The rate of personal pay is equal to the amount of the next increment due at the time of grant of the concession and remains fixed during the entire service.

2. Consequent on the revision of pay scales from 01.01.86 on the recommendations of the Fourth Pay Commission, the matter relating to the revision of rate of personal pay in respect of those Central Government employees who had already participated in sporting events and tournaments of national or international importance and were in receipt of personal pay prior to 01.01.86 in terms of the provisions contained in the aforesaid O.M. will be an amount equivalent to the lowest rate of increment in the revised scale corresponding to the pay scale of the post against which the individual had earned the personal pay in the pre-revised scales of pay and they will be allowed the same number of increments in the revised scale as had been allowed in the pre-revised scale.

3. The question of clarifying certain provisions contained in this Department’s O.M. dated 16.07.85 and also providing for certain further incentives/facilities has been examined by the Government and in this connection the following decisions have been taken;

(i) Para 1(vi) of this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 16.7.85 may be read as follows:-

“(vi) Attending coaching camps in sports organised by National Sports Federations/Sports Boards recognised by Government (Department of Youth Affairs & Sports)”

(ii) For the purpose of availing the facilities mentioned in the O.M. referred to above, National Championships being conducted by the recognised National Sports Federations in individual disciplines and National Games conducted by Indian Olympic Association should be recognised as events of national importance.

36

Is pleased to decide as follows:-

(i) In the case of Central Government servants who are selected for participating in sporting events of national /international importance, the period of the actual days on which they participate in the events as also the time spent in travelling to and from such tournaments, may be treated as duty. Further, if any pre-participation Coaching Camp is held in connection with the above mentioned events and the Government servant is required to attend the same, this period may also be treated as on duty. Consequently the existing provisions regarding grant of Special Casual leave for the purpose mentioned in this item may be treated as cancelled.

(ii) The quantum of Special Casual leave for a period not exceeding 30days in a Calendar year allowed to Central Government employees for purposes indicated at items (iii) to (vii) in para 1 above will cover also their attending the pre-selection trials/camps connected with sporting events of national/ international importance.

(iii) The Central Government employees who are select for participating in sporting events of national/ international importance within India, may be allowed to travel by First Class by train. In the case of events of international important held outside India, they may be entitled to travel by economy class by air.

(iv. a) The number of increments to be awarded for achieving excellence in National events should laid sown at a scale lower than for excellence in International events , say one increment for National level and two increments for Internal events.

(b) The total number of increments to be awarded to an individual should not exceed five in his/her entire career.

(c) The increments so granted would continue to be drawn at the same rate will retirement and would count for the purpose of retirement benefits but not for pay fixation on promotion on the anology of incentive increments awarded for promoting small family norms.

(iii) For the purpose of availing the facilities mentioned in the O.M quota above, the events recognised by the International Sports Bodies in the concerned disciplines and in which participation has been with the prior approval of the Government (Department of Youth Affairs Sports) may be treated as sporting events of international importance.

(iv) Managers/ Coaches / Masseurs /Doctors as may be approved or required by the Federations under rules to administer/ Coach/Manage the teams participation in s ports events of National/International importance may be treated as an integral part of the teams and these officials may also be allowed the same facilities as are available to sports persons for such participation except that the question of grant of rewards in the form of advance increments could be considered on merits, if and when sponsored by the Departments concerned. However, the technical officials concerned with the administration of the tournaments will not be treated as part of the teams but will be given the facilities of availing of special casual leave as is admissible in the case of

37

persons covered in para 1(iii) to (vii) of this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 16.7.85.

(v) The sports-persons from the All India Civil services Sports Control Board attending coaching camps and participating in various All India Civil Services sporting events are also covered under the O.M. with a view to giving them the facilities of special casual leave.

(vi) Para 3(iv) (c) of this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 16.7.85 may be read as follows:-

“(iv) (c) The increments so granted would continue to be drawn at the same rate till retirement but this will not count for any service matter like pay fixation on promotion, retirement benefits or DA/CCA etc.”

4. In so far as persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Department are concerned, these orders issue after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India

DOP&Ts O.M. No.28016/3/89-Estt(A) dated 25.10.1989

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub:- Grant of Special Casual Leave to Government servants participating in Trekking Expeditions.

*****

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M. No.28016/2/84-Estt(A), dated 11.4.1985 which provides for grant of special casual leave to government employees participating in Trekking Expeditions and to say that it has been decided that special casual Leave may also be granted to Government servants who participate in Trekking Expeditions organised by Youth Hostels Association of India as well as Expeditions which have the approval of the Indian Mountaineering Federation.

2. Therefore, the period of absence from duty of Central Government employee participating in Trekking Expeditions may be regulated by grant of special casual leave not exceeding 30 days in one calendar year subject to the following conditions:-

1. (a) That the expedition has the approval of the Indian Mountaineering Federation or is organised by Youth Hostels Association of India; and

(b) There will be no change in the overall limit of 30 days of special casual leave for an individual Government servant for one calendar year for participating in sporting events of national or international importance.

II. The period of absence in excess of 30 days should be treated as regular leave of the kind admissible under the leave rules applicable to the persons concerned, For this

38

purpose Government servants may be permitted as a special case, to combine special casual leave with regular leave.


No. P[R] 605/XIV Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/2017/PM 1/11 dated 14.01.2020 [RBE No.04/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 13.05.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 71/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2017/PM 1/11 dated 14.01.2020 [RBE No.04/2020]

Sub: Filling up the post of Instructors in recognized Training Institutes- clarification-reg.

*****

Reference detailed guidelines regarding filling up the posts of Instructor in recognized Training Institutes, issued vide letter of even number dated 13.05.2019.

In the context of the aforesaid guidelines, one of the Zonal Railways has sought the following clarifications:

(a) Whether an employee should obtain minimum qualifying marks of 60% separately in the written examination as well as in the class room lecture trial;

(b) Whether the 60% qualifying marks is on the aggregate of written examination and class room trail.

(c) Clarification on the criteria of drawing final panel may be given duly indicating the weightage /marks to be given for service record viz. Service Register, Qualifications APARs etc.

The matter has been examined and it is clarified that on the analogy of provisions contained in Para 219 (i)(ii) and (iii) of IREM Vol.I, all those candidates who score not less than 60% marks in the written test (professional ability) should be called for class room lecture trial, and the final panel should be “drawn in the order of seniority” from amongst those who secure a minimum of 60% marks in the professional ability and 60% marks in the aggregate (“modified corrected to read as in the order of merit as per RBE No.39/2020”)

As regards the allotment of marks under the heads “Written Test” and “Classroom lecture trial” in the instructions dated 13.05.2019 ibid, which is a deviation from the IREM provisions, it is clarified that it was a conscious decision taken by the Board (MS), and hence there is no need for review in this regard.

****

39

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.12/2020 No. P[R] 554/VIII Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2007 RN2-5 dated 17.01.2020 [RBE No.06/2020]

together with [RBE No.47/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 13.08.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 159/2018, respectively.


Sub: Permission to retain Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting by Railway officers/staff going on deputation to Joint Venture Companies (JVs) set up in partnership with Ministry of Railways.

Ref: Board’s letter No.E(G)2007 RN2-5 dated 13.08.2018 [RBE.No.113/2018] and 11.03.2019 [RBE No.47/2019] .

*****

In terms of Railway Board’s letter No.E(G) 2007 RN 2-5 dated 13.08.2018 [RBE No.113/2018] instructions had been issued to permit retention of two quarters per State JV at Non-Metro locations and one quarter per State JV at Metro locations for the officers/staff going on deputation to Joint Venture Companies (JVs) set up by Ministry of Railways with State Government, for a period of one year. In partial modification of the above order, Board, vide letter No.E(G) 2007 RN 2-5 dated 11.03.2019 (RBE No.47/2019) decided to dispense with the distinction between Metro and Non-Metro locations and permit parity in retention of accommodation at Metro and Non-Metro locations with the stipulation that the overall ceiling should not change and quarter retention permission will not be admissible at Delhi.

2. In exercise of the powers vested with the full Board to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the provisions regarding house allotment/retention, in supersession of letters under reference full Board have now, decided that Railway officers proceeding on deputation to State JV companies set up in partnership with Ministry of Railways shall be allowed retention of quarter up to a maximum limit of 02(two) quarters per Joint Venture in lieu of equivalent leased accommodation being made available to Railways by State JVs. This dispensation will be available for a period of 03 (three) years from the date of expiry of the previous order i.e. from 12.08.2019.

3. Regarding the railway quarters already retained by the railway officers/staff in pursuance of the earlier orders for which leased accommodation has not been made available to Railways by the State JVs, it is advised that the amount of lease applicable in the concerned JV or HRA plus rent whichever is higher may be charged.


40

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2007 RN 2-5 dated 11.3.2019 [RBE No.47/2019]

Sub:- Permission to retain Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting by Railway officers/staff going on deputation to Joint Venture Companies (JVs) set up by Ministry of Railways with various State Governments.

***** In terms of Railway Board’s letter of even number dated 13.08.2018 [RBE

No.113/2018] instructions had been issued to permit retention of 02(two) quarters/State JV at Non-Metro locations and 01(one) quarter/State JV at Metro locations for the officers/staff going on deputation to Joint Venture Companies (JVs) set up by Ministry of Railways with State Government, for a period of one year with the further stipulation that quarter retention permission will not be admissible for deputationists to State JVs in Delhi.

2. In exercise of the powers to relax in public interest the existing provisions regarding allotment/retention of Railway quarters and the rent to be charged therefore for a class/group of employees, the full Board, in partial modification of the above order, have now decided to dispense with the distinction between Metro and Non-Metro locations and permit parity in retention of accommodation at Metro and Non-Metro locations. However, the total number of quarters has to be within the same ceiling i.e. the overall ceiling should not change. Further, quarter retention permission will not be admissible for deputationists to State JVs at Delhi.



No. P[R] 554/VIII Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2019 RN2-7 dated 31.12.2019 [RBE No.220/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.


Sub: Retention of Railway accommodation by Railway officers/staff on their deputation to National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).

***** This issue of retention of Railway accommodation by officers/staff going on

deputation to National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has been considered by Railway Board.

2. In exercise of the powers vested with the full Board to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the provisions regarding house allotment/retention, full Board has decided that Railway officers proceeding on deputation to National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) may be allowed to retain Railway quarters allotted to them in Delhi/NCR up to

41

a maximum limit of 04 (four) quarters in lieu of equivalent leased accommodation being made available to Railways by NCRTC. This facility of retention of quarters will be available till the officers are on deputation or for a period of 03 (three) years initially whichever is earlier.


*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.14/2020 No. P[R] 288/I Date: 24.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1 dated 16.01.2020 is

published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 28.11.2019 quoted therein was circulated as SC No.164/2019.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1 dated 16.01.2020

Sub: Re-engagement of retired employees in exigencies of service. *****

With reference to Railway Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1 dated 28.11.2019, one of the staff Federations (AIRF) has emphasized the point that there should be no re-engagement of retired employees against Promotee Quota Vacancies. Railways are aware that re-engagement of retired employees in exigencies of service is a purely temporary and limited measure and it must therefore be scrupulously ensured that such contractual engagement in no way affects adversely promotional prospects of serving regular employees.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.15/2020 No. P[R] 500/NPS Date: 28.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/4/2018-F(E)III dated 20.01.2020 [RBE

No.08/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 29.05.2009, 27.05.2016 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 97/2009 and 54/2017, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. D-43/4/2018-F(E)III dated 20.01.2020 [RBE No.08/2020]

Sub: Grant of Additional Benefits on death/disability of Government servants covered under National Pension System (NPS) – reg.

***** Attention is invited to Board’s letter No.2008/AC-II/21/19 dated 29.05.2009 vide

which instructions were issued providing for additional relief on death/disability of Government servants covered by New Defined Contribution Pension System (NPS), Instructions issued vide letter ibid will be applicable to those Government Servants who joined Government service on or after 01.01.2004 and will take effect from the same

42

date i.e. 01.01.2004. Further, attention is invited to the letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/3 dated 27.05.2016 vide which Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (Exits and Withdrawals under NPS) Regulation, 2015 notified vide Gazette notification dated 11.05.2015 was adopted and circulated on Railways. It is prescribed in these regulations that if the subscriber or the family members of the deceased subscriber, upon his death, avails the option of additional relief on death or disability provided by the Government, the Government shall have right to adjust or seek transfer of the entire accumulated pension wealth of subscriber to itself.

2. References were received in this office seeking clarification whether the rule allowing option for drawal of pension/family pension, instead of NPS corpus, is also applicable retrospectively for the cases where corpus of NPS has already been paid to the deceased employee’s legal heirs before issue of Board’s letter NO.2008/AC-II/21/19 dated 29.05.2009. If the date of application of additional benefit is retrospective, whether it is from the date the employee deceased or from the date of issue of Board’s letter dated 29.05.2009. Also, whether the arrears of pension/family pension is to be paid (upon surrender of NPS corpus) or not, as the amount is likely to be huge which would impact the Railway Finances. Clarification was, also, sought whether the interest on the corpus is to be charged from the date of payment of corpus is to be charged from the date of payment of corpus amount till the date of its surrender and if so, at what rate.

3. The above issue has been examined in consultation with Department of Pension & Pensioners ‘Welfare (DOP&PW), the nodal Department on pensionary matters. DOP&PW has clarified that Railway servant/family member in the case of death of Railway servant or his discharge from service on account of invalidation/disability, is entitled to pension/family pension under old pension scheme under Railway Service (Pension) Rules, 1993, if the Railway servant/family wants to DOP&PW have further clarified that the entire accumulated pension funds under NPS may be recovered from him/family with interest for the period from the date of receipt of entire accumulated pension wealth to the subscriber under NPS to the date of refund to the Government at the rate and manner applicable to GPF deposits from time to time.

4. The aforesaid clarification may be kept in view while dealing with cases covered under National Pension System (NPS).

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.16/2020 No. P[R] 299/VI Date: 28.01.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G)2012/HO1-13 dated 16.12.2020 is published for

information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 07.05.2015 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 44/2015, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G)2012/HO1-13 dated 16.12.2020

43

Sub: Grant of Honorarium to the Inquiry Officer (IO) and Presenting Officer (PO) for conducting Departmental Inquiries in cases other than Vigilance Investigation. Ref: Board’s letter number E(G)2012/HO1-13 dated 07.05.2015 (RBE No.44/ 2015)

*****

Vide Board’s letter under reference the provision for grant of honorarium to Inquiry officer (IO) and Presenting officer (PO) for conducting Departmental enquires in cases other than Vigilance investigation has been extended on the same remuneration as applicable to the Vigilance cases as per Boards letter No.2009/V-I/DAR/6/1 dated 22.9.2011. In the said letter, it was stated that the rates of honorarium for various posts as and when enhanced by Vigilance Directorate will automatically be applicable to those conducting non-vigilance cases.

2. The rates of Honorarium to the Inquiry Officers have since been revised vide Board’s letter No.2012/V-I/DAR/6/2 dated 07.10.2015 (Issued in partial modification of Board’s letter dated 22.09.2011)

3. Accordingly, as per Board’s letter dated 07.05.2015, the revised rates issued vide Board’s letter No. 2012/V-I/DAR/6/2 dated 07.10.2015 will be also be applicable to those Non Vigilance cases in which the Inquiry Officer has been appointed after the issue of the letter i.e. 07.10.2015.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2017/I/7/5/8 dated 10.12.2019 is published for

information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 08.08.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 112/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2017/I/7/5/8 dated 10.12.2019

Sub: Clarification on restriction of Officiating Pay under FR-35 (Rule 1329 IREC Vol.II) in the context of RS(RP)Rules, 2016.

***** Subsequent to adoption of Department of Personnel & Training’s OM

No.1/4/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 28.02.2019 regarding restriction of Officiating Pay under FR-35 (Rule 1329 IREC Vol.II) in the context of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 in lieu of Charge Allowance vide Board’s letter RBE No.127/2019 dated 08.08.2019, clarification has been sought by various Railways on issues related to FR-35.

2. With respect to above, it is stated that issues related to restriction of Officiating Pay are under examination in consultation with concerned Directorate(s). Detailed clarification shall be issued in due course.

44

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.18/2020

No. P[R] 500/XXVI Date: 03.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. D-43/15/2019-FIII dated 30.01.2020 [RBE No.14/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 23.6.1995, 10.8.2016, 22.5.2017 and 08.08.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 93/1995, 83/2016, 73/2017 and 127/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. D-43/15/2019-FIIII dated 30.01.2020 [RBE No.14/2020]PC-VII-148/2020

Sub: Reckoning of Charge Allowance for the purpose of revision of Pension of Pre-2016 retirees in terms of 7th CPC recommendations- reg.

*****

Consequent upon the recommendations of 7th CPC, instructions were issued vide Board’s letters No.2016/FIII/1(1)/7 dated 10.8.2016 and 22.5.2017, regarding revision of pension/family pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners. A number of references have been received in this office for reckoning of Charge Allowance for the purpose of notional fixation of pay and accordingly revision of pension w.e.f.01.01.2016.

2. The true nature of charge allowance was earlier considered by the Board and it was decided that the charge allowance, which is actually in the nature of pay restricted under FR-35, should be reckoned as ‘Pay’ as defined in Rule 1303 (FR-9)(21)(a)(i)R-II/6th Edition and as such, it would count as pay for the purposes of pension, gratuity etc. as well as for leave encashment. Accordingly, instructions were issued vide letter No. FIII/94/PN1/26 dated 23.6.1995.

3. The issue has again been examined in Board keeping in view the earlier decision on charge allowance cited in para 2 above and it has been decided as follows:-

(i) Since, Board had already decided to treat the charge allowance as pay restricted under FR-35 and to reckon it as emoluments for pensionary benefits vide letter dated 23.6.1995, the charge allowance may be taken into account for notional fixation of pay for the purpose of revision of pension/family pension of pre-2016 retirees w.e.f. 01.01.2016 in terms of first formulation as conveyed by Board’s letter No.2016/FIII/1(1)/7 dated 22.5.2017.

(ii) Pay fixed in terms of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2017/I/7/5/8 dated 08.08.2019 w.e.f. 01.07.2017 may also be treated as emoluments in terms of Rule 49 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 for the purpose of fixation of pension.

(iii) Since, Charge Allowance may have been paid w.e.f. 01.01.2016 to 30.06.2017 at old rates which was admissible before 2016, the same may be reckoned for

45

calculation of retirement benefits of employees who retired between the periods from 01.01.2016 to 30.06.2017.


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(P&A) II/2008/RS-37 dated 27.01.2020 [RBE

No.07/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 14.11.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.161/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(P&A) II/2008/RS-37 dated 27.01.2020 [RBE No.07/2020]

Sub: Stepping up of pay of Loco Inspectors appointed prior to 01.01.2006 at par with their junior appointed after 01.01.2006 and drawing more pay than the seniors.

*****

The issue of allowing stepping up of pay to senior Loco Inspectors appointed prior to 01.01.2006 at par with their junior appointed after 01.01.2006 and drawing more pay than the seniors has been under consideration for quite some time pursuant to dismissal of several SLPs on this issue by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in limine at the admission stage itself without going into merit of the case. The Federations have also raised this issue in PNM Forum as well as in DC/JCM Forum (item No.10.2012) demanding stepping up in such cases due to dismissal of SLPS. In view of the persistent dismissal of the SLPs by the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India though without going into merit of the case or disputing any of the statutory provisions in this regard, the Board has considered the matter and with a view to obviate repeated/multiple litigations Board has decided, as a special dispensation, to allow stepping up of pay to senior Loco Inspectors appointed prior to 01.01.2006 at par with their juniors appointed after 01.01.2006 who are indentically placed to the employees involved in the following cases:-

Sr. No SLP(C) No(s). WP No(s) Name of the Hon’ble High Court

Name of the applicant(s)

1 4568/2014 3529/2013 Madras UOI & Ors. Vs. V.Murugesan & Ors

2 4569/2014 3528/2013 Madras UOI & Ors. Vs. S.Sakthivel & Ors

3 20656/2014 17528/2013 Madras UOI & Ors. Vs. A.R.Muzzmmil

4 22931/2014 17145/2013 Madras UOI & Ors. Vs. M.Thiyagarajan

5 23789/2019 35569/2013 Andhra Pradesh UOI & Ors. Vs. P.Amos 6 23788/2019 38421/2018 Andhra Pradesh UOI & Ors. Vs. Chedimela

46

Venkata Sridhar & Ors 7 24512/2019 39113/2018 Andhra Pradesh UOI & Ors. Vs. Namburi

Surapa Raju & Ors 8 25587/2019 47740/2018 Andhra Pradesh UOI & Ors. Vs.

B.Ramakrishna & Ors 9 33654/2014 OP (CAT)

No.225/2011(z) Kerala/Erakulam UOI & Ors. Vs.

K.S.Rajendra

2. Attention is further invited to Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2019/PM 7/5, dt. 14.11.2019 whereby necessary clarifications have been issued with a view to remove the perceived ambiguity in respect of the term “cadre” in context of Loco Running Staff. The Board has further decided that the future cases of stepping up of pay of CLIs may be regulated keeping in view the aforementioned clarifications.

3. This issues with the concurrences of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.


No. P[R] 481/XI Date: 04.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)II/2003/FOP/I(Misc.) dated 28.01.2020 [RBE No.12/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)II/2003/FOP/I(Misc.) dated 28.01.2020 [RBE No.12/2020]

Sub: Fixation of Pay in case of pay in case of employees transferred to a lower post on their own request under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a) and subsequently promoted to higher post in the new unit- clarification regarding.

**** Instructions regarding fixation of pay in case of employees transferred to a lower

post on their own request under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a) have already been circulated on Railways from time to time. In this regard, doubts have been raised by various Railways as to the method of fixation of pay of such employees when they subsequently become eligible for promotion to the next higher grade or same higher grade from which they have been transferred to the lower post, in the transferred department i.e. in the new unit.

2. Since Ministry of Railway follows instructions circulated by Department of Personnel & Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions in this regard, the matter was referred to them for seeking their clarification of the matter. They have now given clarification in the two different situations as follows:

Situation 1:-

47

An employee, who joined railway service in a particular grade/scale of pay, after being regularized but before getting any promotion to higher grade/scale, was transferred to a lower post on his own request under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a). Accordingly, his pay was fixed in terms of Rule 1313 (I) (a) (3) of IREC Vol.II (FR-22 I(a)3). Subsequently, he has become eligible for regular promotion to a higher grade/scale which may be the same or lower to his old grade/scale of pay from which he was transferred. Whether his pay on subsequent regular promotion is to be fixed under Rule 1313 (I) (a) 1 (FR-22 1(a)1) or Rule 1313 (I) (a) 2 (FR-22 I(a)2) of IREC Vol.II,

Clarification received from DOP&T on the matter:

It is seen that the railway servant has been transferred to lower post under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol. I (FR-15(a) and his/her is protected in terms of Rule 1313 (I) (a) of IREC Vol.II (FR-22 I(a)3). However, if subsequent regular promotion in the adopted cadre in higher post/grade/level happens to be in same or lower grade/Level/post than the grade/post/Level of the higher post held on regular basis from which he/she is transferred to a lower post/Level under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a)), such Railway servant may not be allowed any promotional increment till he/she reaches to the Level equal to the Level from which he/she is transferred to a lower post on regular basis in the same or another cadre under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a)) in view of the fact that it has potential to create double/additional pay fixation benefits and also while determining the pay structure/pay scale of any post, promotional aspects/relativity with the lower Level(s) are also taken into account.

Situation 2:-

An employee, who joined railway service in a particular grade/scale of pay and after getting promotion to higher grade/scale, was transferred to a lower post on his own request under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a)) and his pay has been fixed in terms of Rule 1313 (I) (a) (3) of IREC Vol.II (FR-22 I(a)3). Subsequently, he has become eligible for regular promotion to that higher grade/scale from which he has been transferred to lower grade/scale. Whether his pay on subsequent regular promotion is to be fixed under Rule 1313 (I) (a) 1 (FR-22 I(a)1) or Rule 1313 (I) (a)2 (FR-22 1(a)2) of IREC Vol.II or otherwise.

Clarification received from DoP&T on the matter:

Same mechanism of pay fixation mentioned for situation I may be adopted in cases where the Railway servant is promoted to a higher grade/scale of pay/Level and after getting promotion to a higher grade/scale/Level was transferred to a lower post/Level/grade on his/her own request under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a) and subsequent promotion in higher grade in the adopted cadre happens to be in same or lower post/level than the promotional grade/post/level from which he/she is transferred to a lower post under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC. Vol.I (FR-15(a)). Thus such Railway servant would not draw any promotional increment in the adopted cadre till

48

he/she surpasses the level from which he/she was transferred to a lower post/Level under Rule 227 (a) (2) of IREC Vol.I (FR-15(a) in that cadre.

3. It is, therefore, advised to deal with the cases similar in situations 1 and 2 as per the aforementioned clarifications furnished by Department of Personnel & Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/PM 4/2 dated 27.01.2020 [RBE

No.11/2020] together with Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2019/RR 1/3 dated 08.02.2019 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.


Sub: Selection for the post of Staff & Welfare Inspector against 35% LDCE quota- clarification reg. Educational Qualification.

*****

A question has been raised as to whether the qualification of MBA/HR is a valid qualification for selection to the post of Staff & Welfare Inspector in Level-6 against the 35% LDCE quota.

A copy of the clarification issued to Northern Railway on the issue earlier vide letter No.E(NG)II/2019/RR 1/3 dated 08.02.2019 is enclosed herewith for information and guidance.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2019/RR 1/3 dated 08.02.2019

Sub: Recruitment/Selection of Staff & Welfare Inspector-III in Northern Railway.

*****

Please refer to Northern Railway’s letter dated 07.02.2019 on the above subject. It is clarified that qualification of MBA/HR can be treated equivalent to the qualification of MBA with relevant papers in Pers. Management for purpose of recruitment/selection of Staff & Welfare Inspector.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.22/2020 No. P[R] 359/V Date: 10.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/E(Sports)/4(1)/7/INC dated 30.01.2020 [RBE

No.15/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s

49

letters dated 24.07.2000 and 09.07.2009 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 173/2000 and 118/2009, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2018/E(Sports)/4(1)/7/INC dated 30.01.2020 [RBE No.15/2020clarification/corrigendum]

Sub: Clarification of grant of Advance incentive increments to sportspersons.

*****

Attention is invited to Board’s letter No.2018/E(Sports)/2000/Policy/INC/4 dated 24.07.2000 wherein it was clarified that advance increments granted to sportspersons and coaches will be treated as pay for all purposes and these increments will not be absorbed in further increment. All benefits such as calculation of DA/HRA, CCA fixation of pay on promotion, retirement benefit etc. will be admissible on such increments.

1. In a further letter No.2018/E(Sports)/2003/Policy/INC/1 dated 09.07.2009, it was advised that “the inventive increments granted to sportspersons would continue to be drawn at the same rate till retirement and these increments will not be counted for any service matters like pay fixation on promotion, retirements or DA/CCA etc. These increments will be in the form of personal pay, equal to the amount of the next increment due at the time of grant of the concession and will remain fixed during the entire service”.

2. The matter has been reviewed and the following are clarified:-

(i) Prior to 09.07.2009: advance increments granted to sportspersons/coaches are treated as pay for all purposes and count for all benefits of pay on promotion, retirement benefits etc. are admissible.

(ii) On or after 09.07.2009: Advance increments granted to sportspersons are to be drawn at the same rate till retirement and these increments are not counted for any service benefits like pay fixation on promotion retirement benefits etc.

This is issued in consultation with Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways (Railway Board).


No. P[R] 227/XVII Date: 11.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2019/V1/IRVM/1/2 dated 22.11.2019 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2019/V1/IRVM/1/2 dated 22.11.2019

Sub: CVC/CVO advice in Vigilance and CBI cases.

*****

50

It has come to notice of Railway Board vigilance that in a case pertaining to Regular Departmental Action (RDA) arising out of CBI investigation, Disciplinary Authority, without consulting CVC, exonerated the charged official. In disciplinary cases arising out of CBI/Vigilance investigation, the DA before initiating action or passing the final order of exoneration or penalty is expected to follow proper consultation procedures with UPSC/CVC/Vigilance as prescribed in IRVM-2018.

In such cases, first stage advice of CVC/CVO shall be sought after conclusion of investigation and before issue of charge sheet. In cases where charge sheet has been issued on the basis of first stage advice and if the disciplinary authority proposes to impose a penalty which is not in line with first stage advice the second stage advice shall be sought before taking final decision on conclusion of disciplinary proceedings. Further, there are certain provisions in IRVM 2018 to approach CVC/CVO for reconsideration of its 1st stage or 2nd stage advice for one time at each stage when there are new facts which have been not considered earlier. In this regard, the provisions of paras 319, 526, 527 & 528 of IRVM-2018 shall be referred. It may please be noted that any deviation from above consultation procedures stipulated in IRVM 2018 may be viewed adversely by CVC.

This issues with the approval of PED(Vig) & CVO of Ministry.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2019/PM 5/10 dated 04.02.2020 [RBE

No.17/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 17.08.2012, 13.08.2013 and 14.10.2014 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 89/2012, 75/2013 and 127/2014, respectively.


Sub: Norms/procedure for promotion in the unified cadre of Track Maintainer- Clarification.

*****

Consequent to instructions issued vide Board’s letter No.2010/CE-1/Spl)/GNS/15 Pt.1 dated 17.08.2012 for restructuring/reorganization of the staffing pattern of Trackmen on the Indian Railways, further instructions were issued vide letter No.E(NG)I/2012/PM5/1 dated 13.08.2013 and letter of same number dated 14.10.2014 laying down the norms/procedures for future promotion in the unified cadre of Track Maintainers.

Subsequently, instructions were issued vide letter No.2010/CE-1/Spl)/GNS/15 Pt.1 dated 22.09.2014, stipulating the assignment of duties to the various Grades of Track Maintainers, wherein inter-alia, the erstwhile categories of Mate and Keyman have been shown designated as Track Maintainer Grade-I in GP Rs.2800 (Level-5)

51

whereas in the earlier letter dated 17.08.2012 ibid, these categories are shown in GP 1800 (Level-1) and GP Rs.1900 (Level-2) respectively.

The aforesaid anomaly in the instructions dated 22.09.2014 ibid has lead to a number of court cases in the matter of promotions in the category of Track Maintainers.

In view of the above, to obviate arising of such ambiguity in the matter, it is clarified that instructions contained in letter No.2010/CE-1/Spl)/GNS/15 Pt.1 dated 22.09.2014 is meant to show only the standard/usual assignment of duties in the various grades of Track Maintainers category and it may be distinguished from the AVC and normal residency period for promotion in this category, which is laid down in Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2012/PM 5/1 dated 13.08.2013 and letter of same number dated 14.10.2014.

In case of similar issue arising in future Court cases, the aforesaid clarification may be brought to notice while defending the matter.

This issues in consultation with the Civil Engineering Directorate of Railway Board.


Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)Spl./2008/ADV.3/6 (7th CPC) dated 04.02.2020

[RBE No.19/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 05.12.2017 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 206/2017, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)Spl./2008/ADV.3/6 (7th CPC) dated 04.02.2020 [RBE No.19/2020] PC _VII no.150/2020]

Sub: Interest Rate on House Building Advance (HBA) for Railway Employees.

Ref: This Ministry’s letter of even number dated 05.12.2017 on the above cited subject.

*****

A copy of Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoH&UA)’s OM. No.I-17011/2(2)/2019-H.III dated 01.10.2019 regarding modification to para-7(i) of their OM No.I-17011/11(4)/2016-H.III dated 09.11.2017 on House Building Advance Rules-2017 circulated to Railways/PUs vide Board’s letter of even no. dated 05.12.2017, is enclosed. The modification shall be applicable mutatis-mutandis on the Railways.

Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs OM. No.I-17011/2(2)/2019-H.III dated 01.10.2019

Sub: Interest Rate on House Building Advance (HBA) for Central Government Employees.

52

*****

The undersigned is directed to say that in partial modification to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs OM bearing No. I-17011/11(4)/2016-H.III dated 09.11.2017 regarding House Building Advance Rules (HBA) – 2017, the competent authority has approved to modify the provision of Para 7(i) in place of the existing provision.

2. Para 7(i) may be read as under.

“The interest rate on House Building Advance (HBA) for Central Government Employees will be 7.9% from October 1, 2019 for a period of one year”

3. All the other existing provisions in the said OM of even no dated 09.11.2017 shall remain same.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.26/2020 No. P[R] 541/IV Date: 17.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1 dated 12.02.2020 [RBE

No.21/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1 dated 12.02.2020 [RBE No.21/2020]

Sub: State Railway Provident Fund – Rate of interest during the year 2019-20 (January, 2020-March, 2020).

*** A copy of Government of India’s Resolution No.5(2)-B(PD)/2019 dated 15th

January, 2020 issued by the Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) prescribing interest at the rate of 7.9% (Seven point nine percent) w.e.f. 1st January, 2020 to 31st March, 2020 on accumulations at the credit of the subscribes to State Railway Provident Fund, is enclosed, for information and necessary action.

Copy of Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) New Delhi’s, Resolution F.No.5(2)-B(PD)/2019 dated 15.01.2020

R E S O L U T I O N

It is announced for general information that during the year 2019-2020, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 7.9% (Seven point Nine per cent) w.e.f. 1st January, 2020 to 31st March, 2020. This rate will be in force w.e.f. 1st January, 2020. The funds concerned are:

1. The General Provident Fund (Central Services) 2. The Contributory Provident Fund (India). 3. The All India Services Provident Fund.

53

4. The State Railway Provident Fund. 5. The General Provident Fund (Defence Services). 6. The Indian Ordnance Department Provident Fund. 7. The Indian Ordnance Factories Workmen's Provident Fund. 8. The Indian Naval Dockyard Workmen's Provident Fund. 9. The Defence Services Officers Provident Fund. 10. The Armed Forces Personnel Provident Fund.

2. Ordered that the Resolution be published in Gazette of India. *****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.27/2020

No. P[R] 481/XI Date: 17.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VI/2009/I/6/5 dated 11.02.2020 [RBE No.09/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 11.09.2008, 22.09.2008 and 11.11.2008 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 110/2008, 120/2008 and 168/2008, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VI/2009/I/6/5 dated 11.02.2020 [RBE No.09/2020]PC VI No.402.

Sub: Fixation of initial pay of Nursing Cadre in the revised pay structure – Circulation of Fixation Tables- reg. Ref: Board’s letters No.PC-VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.09.2008 & 22.09.2008.

*****

Consequent upon implementation of recommendations of 6th CPC as accepted by Govt. of India, posts of Chief Matron & Matron in the pre-revised scale of Rs.7450-11500 & Rs.6500-10500 were granted a revised pay structure of PB-3 (Rs. 15600-39100) + GP Rs. 5400.

2. Fixation tables were issued as Annexure ‘E’ to Board’s letter No. PC-VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.09.2008 for fixation of initial pay in 6th CPC pay structure in respect of existing employees (already in service as on 01.01.2006) in cases where normal replacement pay structure were prescribed. Further clarifications were issued vide letter No. PC-VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.11.2008 regarding methodology for fixation of pay where upgraded pay structure were given.

3. References were received from various Zonal Railways seeking necessary clarification/fixation tables regarding correct methodology for fixation of pay (indicating benefit of bunching) for the posts of Chief Matron/Matron (pre-revised scale of Rs. 7450-11500 & 6500-10500) where various stages in pre-revised scales are getting bunched at minimum of PB-3 (Rs. 15600)

4. The matter has been examined in consultation with Finance Dte of this Ministry and accordingly, provisional fixation tables in respect of Chief Matron/Matron in the pre-

54

revised scale of Rs. 6500-10500 & 7450-11500 (placed in revised pay scale of 15600-39100 + GP 5400) are annexed herewith for utilizing the same for initial pay fixation in 6th CPC pay structure for the above posts.

5. This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of this Ministry.

*****

PAY FIXATION CHART FOR MATRON/CHIEF MATRON IN TERMS OF RULE 7(1)(A)(II) (Pre-Revised Scale: Rs.6500-10500)

(Revised Upgraded Pay Scale: Rs.15600-39100 + GP Rs.5400)

Stage in Pre-Revised Scale

Pay in the Revised Pay Band

as per Rule 7(1)(a)(ii)

Grade Pay Revised Basic Pay

6500 15600 5400 21000

6700 15600 5400 21000

6900 16070 5400 21470

7100 16070 5400 21470

7300 16560 5400 21960

7500 16560 5400 21960

7700 17060 5400 22460

7900 17060 5400 22460

8100 17580 5400 22980

8300 17580 5400 22980

8500 18110 5400 23510

8700 18110 5400 23510

8900 18660 5400 24060

9100 18660 5400 24060

9300 19220 5400 24620

9500 19220 5400 24620

9700 19800 5400 25200

9900 19800 5400 25200

10,100 20400 5400 25800

10,300 20400 5400 25800

10,500 21020 5400 26420

10,700 21020 5400 26420

10,900 21650 5400 27050

11,100 21650 5400 27050

55

PAY FIXATION CHART FOR MATRON/CHIEF MATRON IN TERMS OF RULE 7(1)(A)(II) (Pre-Revised Scale: Rs.7450-11500)

(Revised Upgraded Pay Scale: Rs.15600-39100 + GP Rs.5400)

Stage in Pre-Revised Scale

Pay in the Revised Pay Band as per Rule 7(1)(a)(ii)

Grade Pay Revised Basic Pay

7450 15600 5400 21000 7675 15600 5400 21000 7900 16070 5400 21470 8125 16070 5400 21470 8350 16560 5400 21960 8575 16560 5400 21960 8800 17060 5400 22460 9025 17060 5400 22460 9250*

*Stages are not getting bunched as such no bunching benefit is required from this stage onward). (Normal Fitment Table for pre-revised pay scale of Rs. 7450 -11500 as already circulated vide Board’s letter No.PC-VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.09.2008 to be followed for fixation of pay in pay band for these stages.

9475

9700

9925

10,150

10,375

10,600

10,825

11,050

11,275

11,500

11,725

11,950

12,175


56

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2009 QR 1-2 dated 14.02.2020 [RBE No.22/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 14.01.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 15/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2009 QR 1-2 dated 14.02.2020 [RBE No.22/2020]

Sub: Extension of the period of retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting in favour of officers posted to East Central Railway.

Ref: Board’s letter No.E(G)2009 QR 1-2 dated 14.01.2019.

*****

The issue of permitting the Railway officers/staff posted on East Central Railway to retain Railway quarters at their previous place of posting beyond 31.12.2019 has been considered by the Board.

2. In exercise of the powers vested with the full Board to make reasonable relaxation in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the provisions regarding house allotment/retention, the full Board, in its meeting held on 28.01.2020 have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting for officers and staff posted to East Central Railway may be further extended up to December, 2020.

3. Board have also approved retention of Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting for SAG and above officers posted to North Eastern Railway, South Western Railway, West Central Railway and East Coast Railway for a period of two years. Similar facility shall also be extended to AM level officers posted outside Delhi who are not already covered under the house retention policy for CTIs.

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

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/6/7 dated 18.02.2020 [RBE No.23/2020]

is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 12.09.2013 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 86/2013, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/6/7 dated 18.02.2020 [RBE No.23/2020]

57

Sub: Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016- clarification regarding fixation of pay under Rule 13 on promotion in various situations where feeder and promotional categories lie in same level in the Pay Matrix.

***** Consequent to implementation of 7th CPC recommendations, doubts have been arisen on applicability of provisions under Rule 1313 (FR-22) (I) (a) (1) of R-II vis-à-vis Rulee 13 of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 in cases where certain feeder and promotional posts of Railways lie in the same/identical Level(s) in the Pay Matrix.

2. During 6th CPC pay regime, similar situations were arisen and the matter was examined in consultation with Ministry of Finance and Federations and detailed instructions were issued vide Board’s letter No.PC-VI/2011/IC/1 dated 12.09.2013 (RBE No.95/2013).

3. In the Pay Matrix recommended by 7th CPC, only replacement scales have been recommended for the categories covered under Board’s letter dated 12.09.2013 and no changes in circumstances have been observed, therefore, the guidelines contained therein will continue to be applicable in respect of following categories:-

S.No Feeder category Promotional Category

Pay Scale and Grade Pay in 6th CPC

Corresponding Level in Pay Matrix under 7th CPC.

1 Chief Matron Assistant Nursing Officer

PB-3, GP Rs. 5400

Level-10

2 Sr.Technician Junior Engineer PB-2, GP Rs. 4200

Level-6

3 (i) Loco Pilot (Goods) (ii) Loco Pilot (Passenger) (iii) Passenger Guard

(i) Loco Pilot (Passenger) (ii) Loco Pilot (Mail/Express) (iii) Mail/Express Guard

PB-2, GP Rs. 4200 PB-2, GP Rs.4200 PB-2, GP Rs. 4200

Level-6 Level-6 Level-6

4. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways. However, above have been done only on provisional basis and is subject to the concurrence of Ministry of Finance. Further, it may be ensured that before the benefit is extended, a declaration from the concerned employee may be obtained to refund the amount in case, Ministry of Finance does not agree to this proposal.

*****

ERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.30/2020 No. P[R] 481/XI Date: 20.02.2020

58

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2018/R-U/NFIR/1 dated 13.02.2020 together with Board’s letter of even No. dated 28.08.2018 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 12.10.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 178/2018, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2018/R-U/NFIR/1 dated 13.02.2020

Sub: Fixation of pay of running staff on promotion in the 6th CPC Pay structure.

***** Clarifications have been sought by some of the Zonal Railways regarding minimum pay applicable on promotion of running staff in the 6th CPC pay structure. A detailed clarification in this regard had been issued to Western Railway and North Western Railway vide Board’s letter of even no.dated 28/8/2018 clarifying the position in terms of various provisions of RS(RP) Rules, 2008. A copy of Board’s above letter dated 28/8/2018 is being forwarded to all zonal Railways/Production units to be read along with Board’s letter No.PC VI/2018/I/RSRP/1 dated 12/10/2018 (RBE No.158/2018) for information and necessary action.

Copy of Ministry of Railways letter No.PC VI/2018/RU/NFIR/1 dated 28/08/2018

Sub: Clarification regarding irregular fixation of pay of Running Staff promoted on or after 01.01.2006.

Ref: i) NFIR’s letter No.IV/RSAC/Conf./PartIX dated 23/7/2018.

ii) Rajkot/Jodhpur Division’s letter dated 12.01.2018/29.06.2018 respectively. iii) Board’s letter No. PC VI/2017/CPGRAMS/1 dated 17.08.2018 addressed to GM/WR regarding irregular pay fixation of running staff in Rajkot Division (Copy annexed).

*****

This office is in receipt of NFIR’s letter dated 23/7/2018 (copy enclosed) wherein it has been stated that there has been discrepancy in fixation of pay of Running Staff promoted on or after 01.01.2006 in Rajkot/Jodhpur Division under Western Railway/North Western Railway respectively. In support of this, they have relied upon Rajkot/Jodhpur Division’s letter dated 12.01.2018/29.06.2018 respectively (copy enclosed).

2. Prima facie observation of the concerned Division’s letter indicates there exists some confusion in the methodology of pay fixation of Running Staff promoted on or after 01.01.2006. As the Railways are aware, the pay fixation of existing staff, already in service on the date of effect of RS(RP) Rules, 2008 viz. 01.01.2006, in the revised pay structure is governed by Rule 7 above rules notified vide Gazette Notification No.GSR 643 (E) dated 04.09.2008 (RBE No.103/2008). For the above purpose, fitment tables were issued vide Board’s letter No.PC.VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 11.9.2008 (RBE

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No.108/2008) which are applicable to non-running Staff. Since existing Running Staff (already in service as on 01.01.2006) was in receipt of Dearness Allowance on Pay Element, separate fixation tables were issued for fixation of their pay in revised pay structure in terms of Rule 7 of RS(RP) Rules, 2008 vide Board’s letter No. No.PC.VI/2008/I/RSRP/1 dated 12.9.2008 RBE No.019/20008). As prescribed in rule 7 of RS(RP) Rules, 2008, if fixation of pay as per rule 7(1)(A)(i) is short of minimum of applicable revised pay band (viz. Minimum of PB-1 to PB-4 as applicable to the employee) or pay scale (applicable to HAG & higher grades), such minimum would be allowed, as laid down in Rule 7(1)(A)(ii). The provisions of Rule 7(1)(A)(ii) have already been taken care of while issuing fitment tables vide Board’s letter dated 11/09/2008 & 12.09.2008. The fitment tables are also applicable in the cases where an existing employee (already in service as on 01.01.2006 opts to have his pay fixation from a date later than 01.01.2006, in terms of Rule 5, 6,& 11 of RS(RP) Rules, 2008 as clarified vide Clarification No.3 of Board’s letter No.PC.VI/208/I/RSRP/1 dated 25.09.2008 (RBE No.132/2008).

There is no prescribed minimum, other than minimum of the applicable pay band in the case of those promoted on or after 01.01.2006, where an employee is fixed in any of the applicable pay bands. The minimum pay in pay band as prescribed in First Schedule Part A, Section II of RS(RP) Rules, 2008 and corresponding stipulation in first schedules annexed with Board’s letter dated 11.9.2008 (RBE No.108/2008) is applicable only for direct recruits appointed on or after 01.01.2006 belonging to Running as well as nonrunning categories. The position has been clarified in detail in Board’s letter No.PC.VI/2010/I/RSRP/1 dated 17/02/2010 (RBE No.28/2010). As such once the pay of any existing employee (already in service as on 01.01.2006) is fixed in revised pay structure in the applicable pay band as per the provisions of Rule 7 or 11 and he is subsequently promoted to a post in same or other pay band, his fixation has to be made as per Rule 13. Even at this stage, the minimum of applicable pay band (PB-1 to PB-4) or scale (HAG or above) as applicable is to be ensured.

3. In view of this, it is requested that the Rajkot/Jodhpur Division’s letters dated 12.01.2018/29.06.2018 respectively be examined in light of relevant instructions and the necessary corrective action taken and thereafter, the position be advised to this office. Further, if any specific point of doubt arises, the same may be referred to this office for clarification along with the views of PFA of the Railways.


No. P[R] 535/XI Date: 25.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 29.01.2020 [RBE No.13/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 10.06.2009 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 85/2009, respectively.

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Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 29.01.2020 [RBE No.13/2020, PC.VI/401]

Sub: Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme for Railway Employees- clarification regarding.

*****

Reference is invited to Board’s letter No. PC-V/2009/ACP/2 dated 10.06.2009 regarding 138/09 introduction of Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) for Railway Employees based on recommendations of 6th Central Pay Commission. DOP&T vide their OM No. 35034/3/2010-Estt.(D) dated 03.8.2010 issued clarification regarding MACPS for the Central Government civilian employees. The same shall apply mutatis-mutandis on the Railways also.

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

Copy of DOP&Ts OM. No. 35034/3/2010-Estt.(D) dated 03.08.2010

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme for the Central Government civilian employees - clarification regarding.

*****

The undersigned is directed to invite reference to the Department of Personnel & Training (DOP&T)’s Office Memorandum of even number dated the 19th May, 2009 on the subject cited above. Consequent upon introduction of the Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS), in view of para 14 of the Annexure-I of the Scheme, a number of proposals/references seeking extension of the Scheme to Central Autonomous/Statutory Bodies under various Ministries/Departments have been received by the Department of Expenditure. The Department of Expenditure has felt that keeping the large number of Central Autonomous/Statutory Bodies in view, it would be appropriate to delegate the power the approving such proposals to the administrative Ministries/Departments concerned. The Department of Expenditure has accordingly approved for extending the benefits of the MACPS to the Central Autonomous/Statutory Bodies under various Ministries/Departments subject to them satisfying the following four conditions:

(i) The earlier ACP Scheme was also implemented/adopted by the said Autonomous/statutory Body.

(ii) The proposal to adopt MACP Scheme has been approved by the Governing Body/Board of Directors.

(iii) The Administrative Ministry/Financial Adviser of the Ministry has concurred with the proposal.

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(iv) The financial implications of adoption of MACP Scheme have been taken into account by the Organisation/Body and the additional financial implications can be met by it within the existing Budget Grants.

2. As per the revised arrangement, the proposal shall be processed by the Financial Advisor concerned in the first instance and subject to it meeting the requirements spelt out at (i), (ii) and (iv) above, he would obtain the orders of the administrative Head/Secretary concerned for approving the extension of MACPS to such a body.

3. Above is brought to the notice of all concerned Ministry/Department in continuation of para 14 of Annexure-I of MACPS dated 19.05.2009.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.32/2020 No. P[R] 473/IX Date: 25.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W) 2016/PS5-1/9 dated 21.02.2020 [RBE

No.24/2020, ACS No.84] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W) 2016/PS5-1/9 dated 21.02.2020 [RBE No.24/2020, ACS No.84]

Sub: Amendment in the Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986 (Second Edition-1993) [RSPR—1986] to provide for issuance of Passes/PTOs in digitized/electronic mode.

*****

In order to enable issuance of all kinds of Passes/PTOs to Railway Servants as well as to non-Railway Servants (wherever applicable) in digitized/electronic mode, it has been decided with the approval of the Competent Authority to amend Rule 4 of the RSPR-1986. Accordingly, Rule 4 of RSPR-1986 is hereby substituted as per following:-

“4. Kinds of Passes:-

(1) A railway servant or the entitled members of his/her family and dependent relatives as defined in these Rules may be issued the following kinds of passes, namely:

(i) Duty Pass:

(ii) Privilege Pass including passes while on deputation;

(iii) School Pass;

(iv) Post-Retirement Complimentary Pass;

(v) Widow Pass;

(vi) Residential Card Pass; and

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(vii) Special Pass.

(2) The Passes specified in sub-rule (1) and PTOs may be issued in the form of:-

(i) Metal Pass; or

(ii) Card Pass; or

(iii) Cheque Pass; or

(iv) Electronic format as prescribed in relevant administrative instructions issued by Ministry of Railways (Railway Board).’

(3) In Case of passes (i.e. Complimentary etc.) being issued to non-Railway Servants, the form (i.e Electronic/otherwise) shall be as prescribed in relevant administrative instructions issued by Ministry of Railways (Railway Board).”

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

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 10.12.2019 [RBE

No.209/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 05.02.2019 and 07.02.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 18/2019 and 24/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 10.12.2019 [RBE No.209/2019]

Sub: Operation of New Post Based Roster for Direct Recruitment for Scheduled Casted, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections – Clarification regarding.

Ref: i) Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 07.02.2019.

ii) Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2019/Misc/2 dated 05.02.2019.

*****

Attention is invited to railway Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 07.02.2019 (RBE No.21/2019) enclosing therewith a copy of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Personnel & Training’s O.M. No.36039/I/2019-Estt (Res) dated 31.01.2019 regarding reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) in direct recruitment in civil posts and services in the Government of India.

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2. Clarifications have been sought from Railway Board regarding the method for operating the new post based roster issued by Railway Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 07.02.2019 (RBE No. 21/2019)

3. In this regard, attention is invited to Para 6.2 of DOP&T’s OM No. 36039/I/2019-Estt- (Res) dated 31.01.2019, which states that every Government establishment shall now recast group-wise post-based reservation roster register for direct recruitment in accordance with format given in Annexure II, III, IV and V, as the case may be for effecting 10% reservation for EWSs interpolating them with the SCs, STs and OBCs, While fixing roster point, if the EWS roster point coincides with the roster points of SCs/STs /OBCs the next available UR roster point has been allotted to the EWSs and also the principle of “squeezing” has been kept in view. While drawing up the roster, the cadre controlling authorities may similarly “squeeze” the last points of the roster so as to meet prescribed 10% reservation.

4. Further para 6.1 of DOP&T’s O.M.No. 36039/I/2019-Estt- (Res) dated 31.01.2019 mentions that the general principles for making and operating post based reservation roster would be as per the principles laid down in DOP&Ts OM.No.36012/2/96-Estt. (Res) dated 02.07.1997 regarding implementation of Post Based Reservation Roster. The principles in this regard are under the heading ‘INITIAL OPERATION’ in the DOP&T’s OM No. 36012/2/96-Estt. (Res) dated 02.07.1997.

5. As far as backlog vacancies of SC/ST/OBC’s are concerned, they will be treated as separate and the ceiling of 50% reservation on filling of reserved vacancies would apply only to the vacancies which arise in the current year. Further, on recasting of roster, the excess persons belonging to SC/ST/OBC category may be adjusted as per principles prescribed in ‘Para 4’ above Also, to adjust excess/additional persons belonging to SC/ST/OBC category (including backlog vacancies) in Model Roster for cadre strength up to 13 posts (small scale Roster/ L Shape Roster). It may be stretched to the next cycle/cycles.

6. As the reservation for EWS category will be applicable only on 10% of vacancies notified on after 01.02.2019, the roster points belonging to EWS category can only be filled upto 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019 and the remaining rosters points of EWS in the cadre will be vacant. Also, in new post based roster issued by Railway Board’s letter No.2019-E(SCT)I/25/1 dated 07.02.2019 (RBE No. 21/2019), as the number of roster points allocated to the UR category has mainly got shrunken so the persons of UR category will be in excess than the roster points allocated to UR category. Thus, persons belonging to UR category which are in excess of UR roster points needs to be accommodated against EWS roster points which are in excess of 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019 for EWSs. Still, if there are vacant roster points of EWSs (despite allocating 10% of notified vacancies to EWS on or after 01.02.2019 & adjusting excess UR persons), the remaining roster points belonging to EWS category (which could not be operated as present incumbency/vacancies being sent belonging to EWS category is having the ceiling limit of 10% of notified vacancies

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on or after 01.02.2019) may be operated by indenting UR vacancies against them. In due course of time, EWS roster points will be filled up with EWS category persons and UR persons will vacate the EWS roster points. Thus, in a span of time, all the roster points belonging to EWS category will get operated by persons belonging to EWS category.

7. An illustration in this regard is enclosed as Annexure-I.

Annexure-I

The following illustration clarifies the operation of new post based reservation rosters:-

(i) Suppose there is a cadre of 1000 posts which was filled by direct recruitment on all India basis by open competition. The number of SC, ST and OBC employees to be appointed by reservation in the cadre should ideally be 150, 75 and 270 respectively when all posts are filled. [Reservation for SCs, STs and OBCs in such a case is 15%, 7.5% and 27% respectively]. Also, the number of SC, ST, and OBC employees appointed by reservation is 150, 75 and 270 respectively.

(ii) (a) Suppose 200 vacancies occur in the cadre in the recruitment year 2018, out of which 38 are vacated by SCs, 10 by STs, 72 by OBCs. There is thus, a shortfall of 38 SCs, 10 STs and 72 OBCs in the cadre in that year. Though there is a higher shortfall of SCs, STs and OCBs in the cadre, only 100 of these vacancies could be earmarked reserved because all the 200 vacancies are current vacancies and ceiling limit 50% on reservation in a year would apply on these vacancies.

(b) Shortfall of STs is 10 i.e. less than 7.5% of total vacancies. Therefore, 10 vacancies could only be earmarked reserved for STs. Shortfall of SCs and OBCs is more than 15% and 27% respectively of the current vacancies. Therefore, 15% of the current vacancies straightway earmarked reserved for SCs and 27% for OBCs i.e. 30 vacancies earmarked reserved for SCs and 54 vacancies for the OBCs. Applying the above principle, 94 vacancies are earmarked reserved. Thus, this left room for 6 {100-(10+30+54)} more vacancies to be earmarked reserved to make up the shortfall. These 6 vacancies are to be apportioned between SCs and OBCs in the ratio of percentage of reservation prescribed for these categories viz; 15; 27 subject to the condition that the number of vacancies earmarked reserved any category is not more than the shortfall of that category. Thus, the earmarking of reservation in respect of the vacancies of the year 2018 would be 32 for SCs, 10 for STs and 58 for OBCs.

(c) Suppose only 20 SC candidates, 5 ST candidates and 50 OBC candidates could be appointed in the recruitment year 2018 against the vacancies reserved for them. Thus, 12 vacancies of SCs, 5 vacancies of STs and 8 vacancies of OBCs which earmarked reserved could not be filled and remained vacant. These 12 vacancies of SCs, 5 vacancies of STs and 8 vacancies of OBCs which are earmarked reserved but remained in the recruitment attempt will be treated as backlog reserved vacancies for

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the subsequent recruitment year. After the recruitment process for the year 2018 concludes, total number of posts filled would be 975, out of which 132, 70 and 248 will be held respectively by SCs, STs and OBCs. It may be noted that shortfall of reservation of SCs, STs and OBCs at this stage is 18, 5 and 22 respectively but number of backlog reserved vacancies of SCs, STs and OBCS is 12, 5 and 8 respectively.

(iii) (a) Suppose 200 vacancies arise in the recruitment year 2019 of which 30 are vacated by SCs, 10 by STs and 50 by OBCs. At this stage shortfall of SCs, STs and OBCs will be 48, 15 and 72 respectively. Total vacancies in the year would be 200+12+5+8=225, of which 200 are current vacancies and 25 are backlog vacancies. 25 backlog reserved vacancies of SCs, STs and OBCs will be treated as a separate and distinct group and will be kept reserved -12 for SCs, 5 for STs and 8 for OBCs. Of the 200 current vacancies, not more than 100 can be earmarked reserved for SC/ST/OBC. By applying the same principles as in the year 2018, out of 200 current vacancies, 32 are earmarked reserved for SCs, 10 for STs and 58 for OBCs. Thus, the number of vacancies reserved for SCs, STs and OBCs in the recruitment year 2019, including the backlog reserved vacancies, will be 44, 15 and 66 respectively. Suppose, these vacancies are notified on or after 01.02.2019, thus reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) has to be provided upto 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019. therefore, 10% of the current year vacancies (200) are straightway earmarked reserved for EWSs i.e. 20 vacancies. As the cadre strength is 1000, there will be 100 roster points belonging to EWSs. However, only 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019 can only be allotted to EWSs, i.e. 20 number of vacancies can be reserved for EWSs in the recruitment year 2019, and remaining points can be utilised as UR vacancies. Thus, the number of vacancies reserved for SCs, STs, OBCs and EWSs in the recruitment year 2019 (notified on or after 01.02.2019), will be 44, 15, 66 and 20 respectively and the remaining vacancies (80) are to be treated as UR vacancies.

(b) Suppose only 34 SC candidates, 5 ST candidates, 56 OBC candidates and 15 EWSs candidates could be appointed in the recruitment year 2019 against the vacancies reserved for them. Thus, 10 vacancies of STs, 10 vacancies of OBCs and 5 vacancies of EWSs which are earmarked reserved could not be filled and remained vacant. These 10 vacancies of SCs 10 vacancies of STs and 10 vacancies of OBCs which are earmarked reserved but remained vacant in the recruitment attempt will be treated as backlog reserved vacancies for the subsequent recruitment year (vacancy earmarked for EWSs which not filled due to non-availability of suitable candidate belonging to EWSs, shall not be carried forward to next recruitment year as backlog). After the recruitment process for the year 2019 concludes, total number of posts filled would be 955, out of which 136, 65, 254 and 15 will be held by SCs, STs, OBCs and EWSs respectively. It may be noted that shortfall of reservation of SCs, STs and OBCs at this stage will be 14, 10 and 16 respectively but number of backlog reserved vacancies of SCs, STs and OBCs is 10, 10,10 and respectively.

(iv) Suppose 200 vacancies occur in the recruitment year 2020, out of which 35 are vacated by SCs 10 by STs, 50 OBCs and 5 by EWSs. At this stage shortfall of SCs,

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STs, OBCs will be 49, 20 and 66 respectively. Total vacancies in the year would be 200+10+10+10=230, of which 200 are current vacancies and 30 are backlog vacancies. 30 backlog reserved vacancies of SCs, STs, OBCs will be treated as a separate and distinct group and will be kept reserved-10 for SCs, 10 for STs and 10 for OBCs. Of the 200 current vacancies not more than 100 can be earmarked reserved for SC/ST/OBC. By applying the same principles as in the year 2018 & 2019, out of 200 current vacancies, 34 are earmarked reserved for SCs, 10 for STs and 56 for OBCs. Thus, the number of vacancies reserved for SCs, STs and OBCs in the recruitment year 2019 including the backlog reserved vacancies, will be 44, 20 and 66 respectively. As these vacancies will be notified on or after 01.02.2019 hence reservation of Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) has to be provided upto 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019. Therefore, 10% of the vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019 would be reserved for EWS which means 10% of vacancies notified in 2019 and 2020 (200+200=400), subject to 10% of the total strength of the cadre. Thus 10% of 400 i.e. 40 roster points can be reserved for EWSs upto recruitment year 2020 out of which 10 has already been occupied by EWSs (15 could be appointed in the recruitment year 2019 against EWSs reservation out of which 5 vacated). As the cadre strength is 1000, there will be 100 roster points belonging to EWSs. However, only 10% of vacancies notified on or after 01.02.2019 can only be allotted to EWSs, i.e. 30 (40-10) number of vacancies can be reserved for EWSs in the recruitment year 2020 (10 already occupied by the EWSs, as out of 15 appointed in the year 2019 against EWS reservation, 5 got vacated) leading to a total of 40 i.e.10% the vacancies (400) notified on or after 01.02.2019, and remaining points can be utilised as UR vacancies. Thus, the number of vacancies reserved for SCs, STs, OBCs and EWSs in the recruitment year 2020, will be 44, 20, 66 and 30 respectively and the remaining vacancies (70) will be treated as UR vacancies.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 04.02.2020 [RBE No.16/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 19.12.2016, 31.07.2017, 26.12.2017 and 29.01.2020 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 134/2016, 107/2017, 05/2018 and 31/2020 , respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 04.02.2020 [RBE No.16/2020]

Sub: Consolidated guidelines regarding Modification Assured Career Progression Scheme for Railway Employees.

*****

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Reference is invited to Board’s letter of even number dated 19.12.2016 regarding implementation of Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) for Railway employees on the basis of 7th Central Pay Commission recommendations. Now DOP&T vide their OM dated 35034/3/2015-Estt.(D) dated 22.10.2019 has issued Consolidated Guidelines regarding MACPS for the Central Government Civilian Employees. A copy thereof is sent herewith for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis-mutandis on the Railways also.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to the DOP&T’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid OM dated 22.10.2019 are given as under:-

S.No DOP&T’s instructions Railway Board’s corresponding instructions

1. OM.No.35034/3/2008-Estt.(D) dated 19.05.2009

letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 19.12.2016

2. OM.No.13/02/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 27.07.2017

letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/6/2 dated 31.7.2017

3. OM.No.2/11/2017-Estt.(Pay-II) dated 24.11.2017

letter No.F(E)II/2017/DE/1/2 dated 26.12.2017

4. OM.No.35034/3/2010-Estt.(D) dated 03.8.2010

letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 29.01.2020 [RBE No.13/2020]


Copy of DOP&Ts OM.No.35034/3/2015-Estt.(D) dated 22.10.2019

Sub: Consolidated guidelines regarding Modification Assured Career Progression Scheme for the Central Government Civilian employees.

*****

The Seventh Central Pay Commission in Para 5.1.44 of its report, has recommended Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme [MACPS] will continue to be administered at 10, 20 and 30 years as before. In the new Pay matrix, the employees will move to the immediate next Level in the hierarchy. As per the recommendations, the Scheme will be available to all posts, including Group “A” posts, whether isolated or not. However,, Organised Group “A” Services will not be covered under the Scheme. In other words, MACPS will continue to be applicable to all employees up to HAG level, except members of Organised Group “A” Services.

2. The Government has considered the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission for continuation of MACPS and has accepted the same. The MACPS will continue to be administered at 10, 20 and 30 years as before. Under the scheme, the employee will move to immediate next Pay Level in the new Pay Matrix.

3. The Scheme shall continue to be applicable to all regularly appointed Group “A” (except officers of the Organised Group ‘A’ Services). ‘B’ and ‘C’ Central Government Civilian Employees. Casual employee, including those granted ‘temporary status’ and

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employees appointed in the Government on adhoc or contract basis shall not qualify for benefits under the aforesaid Scheme. The details of the MACP Scheme and conditions for grant of the financial upgradation under the Scheme are given in Annexure-I

4. A Screening Committee shall be constituted in each Department to consider the case for grant of financial upgradations under the MACP Scheme. The Screening Committee shall consist of a Chairperson and two members. The members of the Committee shall comprise officers holding posts which are at least one level above the level in which the MACP is to be considered and not below the rank of Under Secretary equivalent in the Government. The Chairperson should generally be a level above the members of the Committee.

5. In cases where the Appointing Authority is the President and the Screening Committee is constituted in the Secretary of the Ministry / Department, then the power to approve the recommendations of the Screening Committee is delegated to the Secretary of such Ministry or Department. In cases where the Appointing Authority is the President and the Screening Committee is constituted in an organization (for e.g., field office, attached/subordinate office, etc), then the power to approve the recommendations of the Screening Committee is delegated to the Head of such organized. In all other cases, the power to approve the recommendations of the Screening Committee shall be with the Appointing Authority.

6. In order to prevent undue strain on the administrative machinery, the Screening Committee shall follow a time-schedule and meet twice in a financial year. Accordingly, cases maturing during the first-half of a particular financial year [April – September] shall be taken up for consideration by the Screening Committee meeting in the first week of January. Similarly, the Screening Committee meeting in the first week of July shall process the cases that would be maturing during the second-half of the financial year [October – March].

7. In so far as persons serving in the Indian Audit and Accounts Departments are concerned, these orders issue after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

8. Any interpretation/clarification of doubt as to the scope and meaning of the provisions of the MACP Scheme shall be given by the Department of Personnel and Training (Establishment-D). The MACP Scheme continues to be effective from 01.09.2008.

9. No stepping up of pay in the pay level would be admissible with regard to junior getting more pay than the senior on account of pay fixation under MACP Scheme.

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ANNEXURE-I

O.M .No.35034/3/2015-Estt.(D) dated 22.10.2019

1. There shall be three financial upgradations under the MACPS, counted from the direct entry grade on completion of 10, 20 and 30 years services, respectively or 10 years of continuous service in the same Level on Pay Matrix, whichever is earlier.

2. The MACPS envisages merely placement in the immediate next higher level in the hierarchy of the Pay Matrix as given in PART A of Schedule of the CCS [Revised Pay] Rules, 2016. Thus, the Level at the time of financial upgradation under the MACPS can, in certain cases where regular promotion is not between two successive Pay Levels, be lower than what is available at the time of regular promotion. In such cases, the higher level attached to the next promotion post in the hierarchy of the concerned cadre / organization will be given only at the time of regular promotion.

3. The financial upgradations under the MACPS would be admissible up to level 15 in the Pay Matrix, corresponding to the Higher Administrative Grade (HAG).

4. (i) Benefit of pay fixation available at the time of regular promotion shall also be allowed at the time of financial upgradation under the Scheme. [as prescribed in Para 13 of CCS (Revised Pay] Rules), 2016].

(ii) There shall, however, be no further fixation of pay at the time of regular promotion if it is in the same Pay level as granted under MACPS.

(iii) However, at the time of actual promotion if it happens to be in a post carrying higher Pay level than what is available under MACPS, then he shall be placed in the level to which he is promoted at the cell in the promoted level equal to the figure being drawn by him on account of MACP. If no such cell is available in the level to which promoted, he shall be placed at the next higher cell in that level. The employee may have an option to get this fixation done either on the date of promotion w.e.f the date of next increment as per the option to be exercised by him.

5. Promotions earned /upgradation granted under the MACP Scheme in the past to those grades which are in the same Level in the Pay Matrix due to merger of pay scales / upgradations of posts recommended by the Seventh Pay Commission shall be ignored for the purpose of granting upgradations under Modified ACPS. The benefit of merger will accrue w.e.f. the date of notification of the Recruitment Rules for the relevant post.

6. Fixation of pay on grant of financial upgradation under MACPS on or after 01.01.2016 shall be made as per Rule 13 of CCS(RP) Rules, 2016 issued vide Department of Expenditure notification dated 25th July, 2016 and in terms of provisions contained in DoP&T OM. No. 13/02/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 27.07.2017.

6.1 In cases where financial upgradation had been granted to Government Servants in the next higher Grade Pay in the hierarchy of Grade Pays as per the provisions of the

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MACP Scheme of 19th May, 2009, but whereas as a result of the implementation of Seventh CPC’s recommendations, substantive post held by him in the hierarchy of the cadre has been upgraded by granting a higher Pay Level, in such cases the MACP already granted to him prior to 7th CPC shall be refixed in the revised pay structure at the next higher level of Pay Matrix. To illustrate, in the case of Postal Inspector (GP 4200/-) in Department of Posts, who was granted 1st MACP in the Grade Pay of Rs.4600/- in PB-2, he will now be granted (grade pay of Rs.4800 in pay band PB-2) Level 8 of the Pay Matrix consequent upon upgradation of the post of Postal Inspector from GP 4200 to GP of Rs.4600/Level 7 in the Pay Matrix. However, all the financial upgradations under the Scheme should be done strictly in accordance with the hierarchy of Levels in the Pay Matrix as notified vide CCS (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016.

7. With regard to fixation of his pay on grant of promotion / financial upgradation under MACP Scheme, a Government servant has an option under Rule FR22[1] (A) [1] to get his fixed in the higher post /Pay Level either from the date of his promotion /upgradation or from the date of next increment viz., 1st July or 1st January, subject to the provisions in the Scheme.

8. Promotions earned in the post carrying same Pay Level in the promotional hierarchy as per Recruitment Rules shall be counted for the purpose of MACPS.

9. ‘Regular Service’ for the purposes of the MACPS shall commence from the date of joining of a post in direct entry grade on a regular basis either on direct recruitment basis or on absorption /re-employment basis. Service rendered on casual, adhoc /contract basis before regular appointment on pre-appointment training shall not be taken into reckoning. However, past continuous regular service in same/ another Central Government Department in a post carrying same pay level in the Pay Matrix prior to regular appointment in a new Department, without a break, shall also be counted towards qualifying regular service for the purposes of MACPS only [and not for the regular promotions]. However, benefits under the MACPS in such cases shall not be considered till the satisfactory completion of the probation period in the new post.

10. Past service rendered by a Central Government employee in a State Government /statutory body / Autonomous body / Public Sector organization, before appointment in the Central Government shall not be counted towards Regular Service.

11. ‘Regular service’ shall include all periods spent on deputation /foreign service, study leave and all other kinds of leave, duly sanctioned by the competent authority.

12. The MACPS shall also be applicable to work charged posts, if their service conditions are comparable with the staff of regular establishment.

13. Existing time-bound promotion scheme, including in-situ promotion scheme, or any other kind of promotion scheme existing for a particular category of employees in a Ministry/Department or its offices, may continue to be operational for the concerned category of employees if it is decided by the concerned administrative authorities to

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retain such Schemes, after necessary consultations or they may switch-over to the MACPS. However, these Schemes shall not run concurrently with the MACPS.

14. The MACPS is directly applicable only to Central Government Civilian employees. The scheme may extended to employees of Central Autonomous / Statutory Bodies under the administrative control of a Ministry/Department subject to fulfilment of conditions prescribed in DoP&T’s OM No.35034/3/2010-Estt.(D) dated 03.08.2010.

15. If a financial upgradation under the MACPS is deferred and not allowed after 10 years in a level, due to the reason of the employees being unfit or due to departmental proceedings, etc., this would have consequential effect on the subsequent financial upgradation which would also get deferred to the extent of delay in grant of first financial upgradation.

16. On grant of financial upgradation under the Scheme, there shall be no change in the designation, classification or higher status. However, financial and certain other benefits which are linked to the pay drawn by an employee such as HBA, allotment of Government accommodation shall be permitted.

17 (i) For grant of financial upgradation under the MACP Scheme, the prescribed Benchmark shall be ‘Very Good’, for all levels. This shall be effective for upgradations under MACPS falling due in or after 25.07.2016 and the revised benchmark shall be applicable for the APARs for the year 2016-17 and subsequent years.

17 (ii) While assessing the suitability of an employee for grant of MACP, the Departmental Screening Committee (DSC) shall assess the APARs in the reckoning period. The benchmark for the APARs for the years 2016-17 and thereafter shall ‘Very Good’. The benchmark for the year 2015-16 and earlier years shall continue be as per the MACP guidelines issued vide DoPT O.M. dated 19.05.2009.

“The financial upgradation would be on non-functional basis subject to fitness, in the hierarchy of Grade Pay within the PB-1. Thereafter for upgradation under the MACPS the benchmark of ‘good’ would be applicable till the grade of pay of Rs.6600/- in PB-3. The benchmark will be ‘Very Good’ for financial upgradation to the Grade Pay of Rs.7600 and above.

For example, if a particular MACP falls due on or after 25.07.2016, the following benchmarks for APARs are applicable.

APAR for the year

Benchmark grading for MACP for Level 11 and below

Benchmark grading for MACP for Level 12 and above

2013-14 and earlier years

Good Very Good

2014-15 Good Very Good 2015-16 Good Very Good

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2016-17 Very Good Very Good 2017-18 and subsequent years

Very Good Very Good

18. In the matter of disciplinary /penalty proceedings, grant of benefit under the MACPS shall be subject to rules governing normal promotion. Such cases shall, therefore, be regulated under the provisions of the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965 and instructions issued thereunder.

19. The MACPS contemplates merely placement on personal basis in the immediate higher Pay Level/grant of financial benefits only and shall not amount to actual/ functional promotion of the employees concerned. Therefore, no reservation orders/rosters shall apply to the MACPS, which shall extend its benefits uniformly to all eligible SC/ST employees also. However, the rules of reservation in promotion shall be ensured at the time of regular promotion. For this reason, it shall not be mandatory to associate members of SC/ST in the Screening Committee meant to consider cases for grant of financial upgradation under the Scheme.

20. Financial upgradation under the MACPS shall be purely personal to the employee and shall have no relevance to his seniority position. As such, there shall be no additional financial upgradation for the senior employees on the ground that the junior employee in the grade has got higher pay/ Level under MACPS. However, in cases where a senior Government servant granted MACP to a higher Grade Pay before 1st day of January, 2016 draws less pay in the revised pay structure than his junior who is granted MACP to the higher Level on or after 1st day of January, 2016, the pay of senior Government servant in the revised pay structure shall be stepped up to an amount equal to the pay as fixed for his junior in that higher post and such stepping up shall be done with effect from the date of MACP of the junior Government servant subject to the fulfillment of the following conditions, namely:-

(a) both the junior and the senior Government servants belong to the same cadre and they are in the same pay Level on grant of MACP.

(b) the existing pay structure and the revised pay structure of the lower and higher posts in which they are entitled to draw pay are identical;

(c) the senior Government servants at the time of grant of MACP are drawing equal or more pay than the junior;

(d) the anomaly is directly as a result of the application of the provisions of Fundamental Rule 22 or any other rule or order regulating pay fixation on such grant of MACP in the revised pay structure:

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Provided that if the junior officer was drawing more pay in the existing pay structure than the senior by virtue of any advance increments granted to him, the provisions of this sub rule shall not be invoked to step up the pay of the senior officer.

21. Pay drawn in the level of Pay Matrix under the MACPS shall be taken as the basis for determining the terminal benefits in respect of the retiring employee.

22. In case an employee is declared surplus in his /her organization and appointed in the same pay-scale or lower scale of pay in the new organization, the regular service rendered by him / her in the previous organization shall be counted towards the regular service in his /her new organization for the purpose of giving financial upgradation under the MACPS.

23. In case of transfer ‘including unilateral transfer on request’, regular service rendered in previous organisation/office shall be counted alongwith the regular service in the new organisation/office for the purpose of getting financial upgradations under the MACPS. However, financial upgradation under the MACPS shall be allowed in the immediate next higher Pay Level in the Pay Matrix as given in CCS (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016. Wherever an official, in accordance with terms and conditions of transfer on own volition to a lower post, is reverted to the lower Post/Grade from the promoted Post/Pay Level before being relieved for the new orgainsation /office, such past promotion in the previous orgainsation/office will be ignored for the purpose of MACPS in the new organisation/office.

24. If a regular promotion has been offered but was refused by the employee before becoming entitled to an upgradation under the scheme, no financial upgradation shall be allowed as the employee has not been stagnated due to lack of opportunities. If, however, financial upgradation has been allowed due to stagnation and the employees subsequently refuse the promotion, it shall not be a ground to withdraw the financial upgradation. He shall, however, not be eligible to be considered for further financial upgradation till he agrees to be considered for promotion again and in such case, the second or the next financial upgradation shall also be deferred to the extent of period of debarment due to the refusal of promotion.

25. Cases of persons holding higher posts purely on ad hoc basis shall also be considered by the Screening Committee along with others. They may be allowed the benefit of financial upgradation on reversion to the lower post.

26. Employees on deputation need not revert to the parent Department for availing the benefit of financial upgradation under the MACPS. They may exercise a fresh option to either draw pay in the level of Pay Matrix attached to the post held by them on deputation or the pay in the pay level admissible to them under the MACPS, whichever is beneficial. In case, the employee opts to draw pay in the pay level admissible to him/her under the MACPS, the deputation (duty) allowance shall be regulated in terms of the instructions issued by DoPT vide O.M.No.2/11/2017-Estt.(Pay-II) dated 24.11.2017, as amended from time to time.

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27. Illustrations

A. (i) If a Government servant in Level 2 gets his first regular promotion in the Level 4 on completion of 8 years of service and them continues in the Level for further 10 years without any promotion then he would be eligible for 2nd financial upgradation under the MACPS in the Level 5 after completion of 18 years (8+10 years).

(ii) (a) In case he does not get any promotion thereafter, then he would get 3rd financial upgradation in the Level 6 on completion of further 10 years of service i.e. 28 years [8+10+10]

(ii) (b) However, if he gets 2nd promotion after 5 years of further service in the grade say in the Level 7 [i.e. on completion of 23 years [8+10+5 years)], then he would get 3rd financial upgradation in Level 8 after completion of 30 years.

(iii) (a) if he gets 2nd promotion before 20th year (say 19th year), then he gets 3rd MACP, at the end of 29th year, (i.e. 10 years from 2nd promotion) provided he does not get 3rd promotion.

(iii) (b)if he gets 2nd promotion before 20th year (say 23rd year), and there is no 3rd promotion before 30 years, then he may be allowed 3rd MACP at the end of the 30 years.

B. If a Government servant in Level 2 is granted financial upgradation under the MACPS on completion of 10 years of service in the Level 3 and 5 years later he gets 1st regular promotion in Level 4, the 2nd financial upgradation under MACPS [ in the next level w.r.t. level held by Government servant] will be granted in Level 5 on completion 20 years of service. On completion of 30 years of service, he will get 3rd MACP in the Level 6. However, if two promotions are earned before completion of 20 years, only 3rd financial upgradation would be admissible on completion of 10 years of service in Level from the date of second promotion or at the 30th year of service, whichever is earlier. C. If a Government servant has been granted either two regular promotions or 2nd financial upgradation under the ACP Scheme of August,1999 after completion of 24 years of regular service then only 3rd financial upgradation would be admissible to him under the MACPS on completion of 30 years of service provided that he has not earned third promotion in the hierarchy.


No. P[R] 536/XIII Date: 28.02.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/PM1/2 dated 26.02.2020 [RBE No.27/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 25.10.2018 and 02.09.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 188/2018 and 130/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/PM1/2 dated 26.02.2020 [RBE No.27/2020]

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Sub: Discontinuance of Direct Recruitment to the posts of Senior Section Engineers (SSEs)- clarification reg.

*****

As per extant provisions, SSE posts are filled up partly by DR (20%) and partly by promotion (80%).

2. Instructions issued vide Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2018/RR/1-31 dated 25.10.2018 provisionally discontinued direct recruitment in the posts of SSEs, initially for a period of one year, and also provided that all direct recruitment in all technical supervisory categories should be done only in the post of JEs by adding the DR vacancies of SSEs to those of JEs for the purpose of Direct Recruitment till the period of discontinuance of DR in SSE. The provisional discontinuation of DR of SSE has further been extended for a period of one year beyond 24.10.2019 vide Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2018/RR/1-31 dated 02.09.2019.

3. The transfer of the DR intake for SSEs into the lower grade of JE has resulted in increase in strength of the JE cadre with a corresponding decrease in SSEs. To offset this as well as to protect the promotional interest of JEs, the matter has been examined in consultation with both the staff Federation i.e. AIRF and NFIR. It has been decided that henceforth the 20% DR quota of SSE, may be transferred to the Promotional Quota (from JE to SSE) until the prohibition of DR intake into SSE continues. In other words, SSE posts may now be filled up 100% through promotion from JE as long as the DR intake into SSE is kept on hold. Adequate cushion may however be factored in for accommodating any pending inter Railway transfer requests or any compassionate appointment cases in SSE that may have been approved.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2018/MACP/1(SM) dated 25.02.2020 [RBE No.26/2020, PC-VII/153] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 02.08.2016, 16.02.2018 and 04.02.2020 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 80/2016, 26/2018 and 34/2020, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2018/MACP/1(SM) dated 25.02.2020 [RBE No.26/2020, PC-VII/153]

Sub: Grant of financial upgradation under MACPS to Station Masters.

*****

Arising out of the decision to upgrade Assistant Station Masters in GP 2800 to GP 4200 and merge them with the post of Station Masters in GP 4200 communicated vide Note 2 of Annexure B of Board’s letter dated 02.8.2016 (RBE No. 93/2016), the

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issue of ignoring promotion from ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) for the purpose of MACPS has been under Board’s consideration. This issue has also been raised by AIRF in PNM forum as item No. 5/2018 and NFIR as item No.15/2017.

2. The matter has been considered by the Board in terms of para 5 of Annexure to DOP&T’s OM dated 22.10.2019 circulated vide Board’s letter dated 04.02.2020 (RBE No. 16/2020) and it has been decided that promotion from the post of ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) may not be reckoned for the purpose of MACPS. As the necessary amendment in the recruitment provisions for Station Masters has been notified vide Board’s letter dated 16.2.2018 (RBE No.22/2018), the benefit of MACPS ignoring promotion from ASM to SM shall be admissible w.e.f. 16.2.2018.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated 03.03.2020 [RBE No.28/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 31.12.2003 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular 10/2004.

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated 03.03.2020 [RBE No.28/2020]

Sub: Coverage under Railway Services (Pension) Rule, 1993, in place of National Pension System, of those Railway employees whose selection for appointment was finalized before 01.01.2004 but who joined Railway service on or after 01.01.2004.

***** It may please be endured that the options may be obtained from such of those employees fulfilling the conditions stipulated in DoP&T’s OM before 31.05.2020. The option once exercised shall be final. As clarified in Para 7 of DoP&T’s OM dated 17.02.2020, it is made clear that the one-time option to be covered under RS (Pension) Rules, 1993 would be available to only those railway servants who were declared successful for recruitment before 01.01.2004, against vacancies pertaining to the period prior to that date. This option shall, however, not be available to the railway servants appointed on or after 01.01.2004, if they fall in any of the categories indicated in Para 7 of DoP&T’s OM dated 17.02.2020, supra.

These instructions may be given wide publicity amongst the eligible staff on the Divisions/Workshops/Depots/Stations/Units etc. for exercising one time option to be covered under RS (Pension) Rules, 1993.

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated. 03.03.2020

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Sub: Coverage under Railway Services (Pension) Rule, 1993, in place of National Pension System, of those Railway employees whose selection for appointment was finalized before 01.01.2004 but who joined Railway service on or after 01.01.2004.

***** A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No. 57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 17th February, 2020 is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993. The Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance’s Notification No. 5/7/2003-ECB&PR dated 22.12.2003, mentioned in the DOP&PW’s OM dated 17.02.2020, has been circulated on Railways vide this office’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PN1/24 dated 31.12.2003.

2. Similar to the amendments made in the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 and other connected rules, as mentioned in para 1 of the DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 17.02.2020, the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 and other connected rules were also amended vide Notification No.F(E)III/2003/PN1/38 dated 30.12.2003.

3. Further, separate instructions with respect to para 9 of the DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 17.02.2020 will be issued by the Accounts Directorate for accountal of the corpus available in the NPS account of the railway servant.

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 17th February, 2020.

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Coverage under Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 in place of National Pension System, of those Central Government employees whose selection for appointment was finalized before 01.01.2004 but who joined Government service on or after 01.01.2004.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that consequent on introduction of National Pension System (NPS) vide Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) Notification No.5/7/2003-ECB & PR dated 22.12.2003, all Government servants appointed on or after 01.01.2004 to the posts in the Central Government service (except armed forces) are mandatorily covered under the said scheme. The Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 and other connected rules were also amended vide Notification dated 30.12.2003 and, after the said amendment, those rules are not applicable to the Government servants appointed to Government service after 31.12.2003.

2. Representations have been received in this Department from the Government servants appointed on or after 01.01.2004 requesting for the benefit of the pension scheme under Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 on the ground that their

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appointment was delayed on account of administrative reasons or lapses. Similar references have been received from Ministries/Departments seeking advice of this Department on the question whether the Government servants who were appointed on or after 01.01.2004 could also be extended the benefit of pension scheme under CCS (Pension) Rules, if their appointment was delayed beyond 31.12.2003 on account of administrative reasons and the delay in appointment was beyond the central of the said Government servants.

3. From the representations of the Government employees and the references received from Ministries/Departments, it has been observed that in many of the cases referred to this Department, selection process (including written examination, interview and declaration of result) for recruitment had been completed before 01.01.2004 but the employee joined the Government service on or after 01.01.2004. A few illustrations where the selection was finalized before 01.01.2004 but actual joining took place on or after 01.01.2004 are as under:

(i) The result for recruitment was declared before 01.01.2004 but the offer of appointment and actual joining of the Government servant was delayed on account of police verification, medical examination etc;

(ii) Some of the candidates selected through a common selection process were issued offers of appointments and were also appointed before 01.01.2004 whereas the offers of appointment to other selected candidates were issued on or after 01.01.2004 due to administrative reasons/constraints including pending Court/CAT cases.

(iii) Candidates selected before 01.01.2004 through a common competitive examination were allocated to different Departments/organisation. While recruitment process was completed by some Department(s)/organisations on or before 31.12.2003 in respect of one or more candidates, the offers of appointment to the candidates allocated to the other Departments/organisation were issued on or after 01.01.2004.

(iv) Offers of appointment to selected candidates were made before 01.01.2004 with a direction to join on or after 01.01.2004.

(v) Offers of appointment were issued to selected candidates before 01.01.2004, and many/most candidates joined service before 01.01.2004. However, some candidate(s) were allowed extension of joining time and they joined service on or after 01.01.2004. However, their seniority was either unaffected or was depressed in the same batch or to a subsequent batch, the result for which subsequent batch was declared before 01.01.2004.

(vi) The result for recruitment was declared before 01.01.2004 but one or more candidates were declared disqualified on the grounds of medical fitness or verification of character and antecedents, caste or income certificates, Subsequently, on review, they were found fit for appointment and were issued offers of appointment on or after 01.01.2004.

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In all the above illustrative cases, since the result for recruitment was declared before 01.01.2004, denial of the benefit of pension under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 to the affected Government servants is not considered justified.

4. The matter has been examined in consultation with the Department of Personnel & Training, Department of Expenditure and Department of Legal Affairs in the light of the various representations/references and decisions of the Courts in this regard. It has been decided that in all cases where the results for recruitment were declared before 01.01.2004 against vacancies occurring on or before 31.12.2003, the candidates declared successful for recruitment shall be eligible for coverage under the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972. Accordingly, such Government servants who were declared successful for recruitment in the results declared on or before 31.12.2003 against vacancies occurring before 01.01.2004 and are covered under the National Pension System on joining service on or after 01.01.2004, may be given a one-time option to be covered under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. This option may be exercised by the concerned Government servants latest by 31.05.2020.

5. Those Government servants who are eligible to exercise option in accordance with para-4 above, but who do not exercise this option by the stipulated date, shall continue to be covered by the National Pension System.

6. The option once exercised shall be final.

7. It is clarified, that the above option would be available to only those Government servants who were declared successful for recruitment before 01.01.2004, against vacancies pertaining to the period prior to that date. This option shall, however, not be available to the Government servants appointed on or after 01.01.2004 if they fall in any of the following categories:

(i) Government servants whose names were included in a panel of selected candidates before 01.01.2004 for recruitment against vacancies occurring on or after 01.01.2004 and were, accordingly, recruited on or after 01.01.2004.

(ii) Government servants whose names were included in a panel of selected candidates prepared before 01.01.2004 for vacancies arising before and after 01.01.2004 but was actually appointed after 31.12.2003 against a vacancy arising on or after 01.01.2004.

(iii) Government servants who were selected against vacancies pertaining to the period prior to 01.01.2004 on the basis of an advertisement/notification issued before 01.01.2004 or a written examination/interview held before 01.01.2004 but results for recruitment were declared on or after 01.01.2004.

(iv) Government servants who joined on or after 01.01.2004 after they were granted extension of joining time on their own request and, in accordance with the instructions issued by the Department of Personnel & Training, their seniority was depressed on account of such extension of joining time to a batch for which the result for recruitment was declared on or after 01.01.2004.

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8. The matter regarding coverage under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 based on the option exercised by the Government servant shall be placed before the appointing authority for consideration in accordance with these instructions. In case the Government servant fulfils the conditions for coverage under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, in accordance with these instructions, necessary order in this regard shall be issued latest by 30th September, 2020. The NPS account of such Government servants shall, consequently, be closed w.e.f. 01st November, 2020.

9. The Government servants who exercise option to switch over to the pension scheme under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, shall be required to subscribe to the General Provident Fund (GPF). Regarding account of the corpus in the NPS account of the Government servant, Controller General of Accounts (CGA) has furnished the following clarification vide letter No.1(7)(2).2010/cla./TA III/390 dated 14.11.2019:

(i) Adjustment of Employees’ contribution in Accounts: Amount may be credited to individual’s GPF account and the account may be recasted permitting up-to-date interest (Authority- PR-16 &Rule 11 of GPF Rules).

(ii) Adjustment of Government contribution under NPS in Accounts: To be accounted for as (-) Dr. to object head 70 – Deduct Recoveries under Major Head 2071 – Pension and other Retirement benefit – Minor Head 911 – Deduct Recoveries of overpayment (GAR 36 and para 3.10 of List of Major and Minor Heads of Accounts).

(iii) Adjustment of increased value of subscription on account of appreciation of investments – May be accounted for by crediting the amount to Govt. Account under. M.H.0071- Contribution towards Pension and Other Retirements Benefits 800- Other Receipts (Note under the above Head in LMMHA).

10. All Ministries/Departments are requested to give wide publicity to these orders. The cases of those Government servants who fulfil the conditions mentioned in this O.M. and who exercise option to switch over to the pension scheme under CCS (Pension) Rules may be settled by the administrative Ministries/Departments in accordance with these orders.

11. These orders issue with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure, vide their LD. Note No.1(7)EV/2019 dated 08.01.2020.

12. In their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued after consultation with Comptroller and Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution.


Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/E(Sports)/4(1)/1 dated 24.02.2020 [RBE No.25/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s

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letters dated 31.12.2010 and 27.01.2011 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos 09/2011 & 15/2011, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/E(Sports)/4(1)/1 dated 24.02.2020 [RBE No.25/2020]

Sub: Inclusion of Officers promoted on the basis of Sports achievements in Trial Committee. Ref: (1) Board’s letter No.2010/E(Sports)/4(1)/1(Policy) dt. 31.12.2010.

(2) Board’s letter No.2011/E(Sports)/4(1)/1(Policy) clarifications dt. 27.01.2011

***

Attention is invited to para 8.1.6, 8.1.7, 8.2.11.1 & 8.2.11.2 of Board’s letter dated 31.12.2010 as amended by Board’s letter dated 27.01.2011, laying down the constitution of Trail Committees for recruitment of sportspersons through Talent Scouting and through Open Advertisement.

The matter has been reviewed by the Board and the following changes have been made

Para No.

Existing para Revised as

8.1.6 (iv) & 8.2.11.1 (iii)

Assistant sports Officer/Sports officer (as per clarification/ corrigendum No.4 dated 27.01.2011)

Assistant Sports Officer/Sports Officer/Officers who have been promoted on the basis of sports achievement.

8.1.7 & 8.2.11.2

Assistant sports Officer/Sports officer in the Trail committee should be from the approved panel of Railway Board. (as per policy dated 31.12.2010)

Assistant Sports Officer/Sports Officer/Officers who have been promoted on the basis of sports achievement in the Trial committee should be from the approved panel of Railway Board/Railway Board’s order/ promoted as per Railway Board’s policy.

This is issued with the approval of Board (MS).

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2005/PN1/35 dated 04.03.2020 [RBE No.29/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 29.05.2009 & 05.09.2016 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos 97/2009 and 93/2016, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)III/2005/PN1/35 dated 04.03.2020 [RBE No.29/2020]

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Sub: Counting of service on joining new service in State Government/Central Government/ Autonomous Body for the benefit of gratuity in respect of Railway employees covered under National Pension System (NPS).

***

A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No.7/5/2012-P&PW(F)/B dated 12th February, 2020 is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to the DOP&PW’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid O.M. dated 12th February, 2020 are given under:-

S.No DOP&PW’s instructions Railway Board’s corresponding instructions.

1. O.M. No. 38/41/06-P&PW(A) dated 05.05.2009

Letter No.2008/AC-II/21/19 dated 29.05.2009.

2. O.M. No. 7/5/2012-P&PW(F)/B dated 26.08.2016

Letter No.2012/F(E)III/1(1)/4 dated 05.09.2016.

Sd/- G.Priya Sudarsani, DF(Estt.)

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 7/5/2012-P&PW(F)/B dated 12.02.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub:- Counting of service on joining new service in State Government/Central Government/ Autonomous Body for the benefit of gratuity in respect of Central Govt. employees covered under National Pension System (NPS).

***

The undersigned is directed to say that vide this Department’s OM No. 38/41/06-P&PW(A) dated 05.05.2009, in the event of death/disability during service, the benefits of Invalid/Disability pension. Family pension and retirement/death gratuity were provisionally extended to NPS employees at par with the employees appointed before 01.01.2004. Subsequently, the benefit of retirement gratuity and death gratuity has been extended to all Central Government employees covered under National Pension System (NPS) vide this Department’s OM No. 7/5/2012-P&PW(F)/B dated 26.08.2016 on the same terms and conditions as are applicable to employees covered by CCS (Pension) Rules. 1972.

2. References have been received in the Department seeking clarification with regard to the benefit of retirement gratuity on mobility from one organization to another organization. This matter has been considered in consultation with Department of Expenditure. It has been decided that the grant of retirement gratuity and counting of service for gratuity on mobility of an NPS Government employee may be regulated in the following manner.

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(i) On mobility from a Central Government service to another Central Government service, the service rendered in the previous Department in the Central Government shall be counted for the purpose of grant of gratuity. There shall be no sharing of gratuity liability between the two Departments of Central Government.

(ii) On mobility from a Central Government service to State Government service having National Pension System with provision for Retirement/Death Gratuity for its employees similar to those in Central Government. The service rendered in the Central Government shall be counted for the purpose of grant of gratuity. Same provisions shall apply on mobility of an NPS employees of the State Government to Central Government Department. There shall be no sharing of gratuity liability between the Central and State Governments.

(iii) On mobility from Central Government service to a Central or State Autonomous Body service having National Pension System with provision of retirement/ death gratuity for its employees similar to that in the Central Government. the service rendered in the Central Government would be counted for grant of gratuity. The Government will discharge its gratuity liability by paying the amount of retirement gratuity for the service rendered in the Government to the Central or State Autonomous body. This procedure shall be followed mutatis mutandis in respect of NPS employees going over from one autonomous body to another autonomous body or from an autonomous body to Central Government/Department/organisation both having National Pension System with provision of retirement/death gratuity for its employees similar to that in the Central Government.

(iv) On mobility from Central Government service to a Central or State Autonomous Body or to a State Government where the provision for grant of gratuity similar to that in Central Government does not exist or to a Public Sector Undertaking the NPS Government employees shall be granted retirement gratuity as per rule for the service rendered in the Central Government subject to the condition that the total gratuity admissible in respect of the service rendered under the Government of India and that under the later organization, shall not exceed the amount that would have been admissible, had Government servant continued in Government service and retired on the same pay which he/she drew on retirement from the later Organization.

The above provisions would be applicable to Government employees covered under NPS who resign to take up with proper permission, another appointment in the Central/State Government or Central/ State Autonomous body or a PSU.

3. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure vide their U.O.Note No.1(4)/EV/2006-II dated 30.10.2019.

4. In their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders issued after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution.

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5. All the Ministries/ Departments are requested to bring the above instruction to the notice of all offices field formation working under their administrative control.

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(D&A)2020 GS1-1 dated 06.03.2020 [RBE No.30/2020 ACS Nos 139 & 140] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(D&A)2020 GS1-1 dated06.03.2020 [RBE No.30/2020 ACS Nos 139 & 140]

Sub: Amendment to sub-rule (3) (i) & (ii) of Rule 13 and sub-rule (4) of Rule 13 of Railway Service (Conduct) Rules, 1966.

***

In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to Article 309 of Constitution, the President hereby directs that sub-rule (3) (i) & (ii) of Rule 13 and sub-rule (4) of Rule 13 of Railway Servant (Conduct) 1966 contained in Appendix I of the Indian Railway Establishment Code-Vol.I, 1989 edition, 2019, (First Re-print Edition, 2009) may be amended as in Advance Correction Slips No.139 & 140 enclosed.

Sd/- (Renuka Nair) DD/E(D&A)

IREC, Vol-I (1989 Edition, First Re-print Edition-2009)


The following may be substituted as clauses (i) and (ii) of sub-rule (3) of Rule 13 of Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, 1966 at Appendix –I of IREC-I

(3) In any other case, a Railway servant shall not accept any gift without the sanction of the Government if the value exceeds-

(i) Rupees five thousand in the case of railway servants holding any Group’ ‘A’ or Group ‘B’ post

and

(ii) Rupees two thousand in the case of railway servants holding any Group’ ‘C’ or Group ‘D’ post.

[Authority: Railway Board’s Letter. No. E(D&A) 2020/GS1-1 dated 06.03.2020]

IREC, Vol-I (1989 Edition, First Re-print Edition-2009)


85

The following may be substituted as sub-rule (4) of Rule 13 of Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, 1966 at Appendix –I of IREC-I:-

(4) Not withstanding anything contained in sub-rules (2) and (3), a Government servant, being a member of the Indian delegation or otherwise, may receive and retain gifts from foreign dignitaries in accordance with the provisions of the Foreign Contribution (Acceptance or Retention of Gifts or Presentation) Rules, 2012, as amended from time to time, if the market value of gifts received on one occasion does not exceed rupees one thousand, In all other cases, the acceptance and retention of such gifts shall be regulated by the instructions issued by the Government in this regard from time to time.

[Authority: Railway Board’s Letter. No. E(D&A) 2020/GS1-1 dated 06.03.2020]

***


Copy of GM/SC’s letter No.G.203/Policy/Trans/Vol.V dated 16.04.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of memorandum issued under GM/SC’s letter No.G.203/Policy/Trans/Vol.V dated 16.04.2020

Sub: Grant of Special Casual Leave to Gazetted/Non-Gazetted for absence due to Bandh, Curfew & other disturbances- Correction slip No.8 to the MSOP, 2018- Delegation of powers.

***

Copy of GM/SC’s letter No.G.203/Policy/Trans/Vol.V dated 16.04.2020

MEMORANDUM

Sub: Correction Slip No.8 to the Model Schedule of Powers 2018- Introduction of New Items under Part ‘F’ Establishment Matters of MSOP, 2018 as Item No.12(G) (iii) (Non-Gazetted) and 1(G)(i) (Gazetted) Matters.

***

The introduction of New items under Part ‘F’ Establishment Matters as 12(G)(iii) (Non-Gazetted) and 1(G)(i) (Gazetted Matters), regarding Special Casual Leave for Absence due to Bandh, Curfew and other disturbances, is to be read as follows:

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Introduction of New item as 12(G)(iii) under Part ‘F’ Establishment Matters. SUB –PART-II (NON-GAZETTED

SL.No Nature of Powers PHOD/CHOD/HOD

DRM/ADRM/SAG Officers in Field Units

Divisional officers, Extra- Divisional officers & officers in headquarters

Remarks.

12 (G) (iii) (New)

Special Casual Leave- Absence due to Bandh, Curfew and other distrubances.

Full Powers DRM/ADRM/(SAG) CWM (SAG)/ Medical Director (SAG)

Full Powers

NIL 1. Finance concurrence is not necessary. 2. Spl. Casual Leave under these powers can be sanctioned as per this delegation for the Railway Personnel who are under the Administrative Control of the Sanctioning Authority. 3. All cases sanctioned by various authorities in HQ/Divns/Field Units, however, shall be forwarded to PCPO monthly for sending a report to Railway Board, Vide authority mentioned below: Authority: Para 7.9 of Master Circular No.10 (Special CL). [Railway Board’s letters No.E(G)66 LE 2-38 dt.20.08.1966; No.E (LR) 71/ST2/9, dt. 29.11.1972; No.E (LR)II/71/ST2/2 dt. 24.08.1979; No.E (LR) II/81/ST2/1 dt. 03.11.1981; & No. E (LR) II/81/ST2/1 Dt. 28.04.1982]

87

Introduction of New item as 1(G)(i) under Part ‘F’ Establishment Matters. SUB –PART-I (GAZETTED)

S.No Nature of Powers PHOD/CHOD/HOD

DRM/ADRM/SAG Officers in Field Units

Divisional officers, Extra- Divisional officers & officers in headquarters

Remarks.

1(G) 1(G)(i) (New)

Special Casual Leave- Special Casual Leave- Absence due to Bandh, Curfew and other distrubances.

Full Powers

DRM/ADRM/(SAG) CWM (SAG)/ Medical Director (SAG)

Full Powers

NIL

1. Finance concurrence is not necessary. 2. Spl. Casual Leave under these powers can be sanctioned as per this delegation for the Railway Personnel who are under the Administrative Control of the Sanctioning Authority. 3. All cases sanctioned by various authorities in HQ/Divns/Field Units, however, shall be forwarded to PCPO monthly for sending a report to Railway Board, Vide authority mentioned below: Authority: Para 7.9 of Master Circular No.10 (Special CL). [Railway Board’s letters No.E(G)66 LE 2-38 dt.20.08.1966; No.E (LR) 71/ST2/9, dt. 29.11.1972; No.E (LR)II/71/ST2/2 dt. 24.08.1979; No.E (LR) II/81/ST2/1 dt. 03.11.1981; & No. E (LR) II/81/ST2/1 Dt. 28.04.1982]

This issues with the concurrence of Finance and the approval of the General Manager.

***

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PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.42/2020 No. P[R] 473/X Date: 01.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-2/1 dated 18.03.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 19.07.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 103/2019.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-2/1 dated 18.03.2020

Sub: Complaint regarding issuance of passes indicating the type of Disability.

Ref: Board’s letter No.E(W)2017/PS5-1/6 dated 19.07.2019.

*** Details of amendments made in the Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986 (Second Edition-1993) to make it compatible with the provisions contained in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act-2016 and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rules-2017, were communicated vide Board’s above referred letter. Specific directives, as reproduced below, were also issued vide Para 2 thereof:

“Pass Issuing Authorities shall discontinue the practice of mentioning the type of disability on the passes and indicate only a “PwD”, wherever necessary.”

2. However, Hon’ble Court of Chief commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) (CCPWD) has forwarded a compliant of a retired Railway Servant wherein the complainant has stated that Board’s instructions are still not followed in the Railways and enclosed photocopies of passes issued by a Divisional Pass Issuing Authority indicating therein his PwD son as “Invalid son”. Hon’ble CCPWD has directed to look into the matter and take appropriate action.

3. Keeping the above in view, all the Zonal Railways and PUs are advised to take note of the instructions contained in Board’s letter cited under reference and issues necessary directives also to the Pass Issuing Authorities at all levels/Units in the Railway to sensitize them in the matter and to ensure issuance of Passes with due care and strictly in accordance with the extant rules/instructions.


No. P[R] 227/XVII Date: 04.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(D&A)2017 RG6-24 dated 16.03.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(D&A)2017 RG6-24 dated 16.03.2020

Sub: Referring the cases to RRT for advice under Rule 24(2) of Railway Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1968 – Clarification.

***

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References have been received from various Zonal Railways seeking clarification on the subject matter.

2. As the Railways are aware, promulgation of the Finance Act, 2017 and publication of Extra-Ordinary Gazette Notification No.S.O.1696 (E) dated 26.05.2017, has led to transfer of the jurisdiction, powers and authority conferred on the RRT under Chapter VII of the Railways Act, 1989 to RCT; and RRT has since ceased to exist. Railways are also aware that the jurisdiction, powers and authority now transferred to RCT does not include any provisions related to disciplinary matters of non-gazetted employees. Also, Finance Act, 2017 neither makes any mention nor takes any cognizance of Rule 24(2) of RS (D&A) Rules, 1968. As a result of this, the provisions of Rule 24(2) of RS (D&A) Rules, 1968 to the extent.

“..... he may, if he chooses, request the General Manager to refer the case to the Railway Rates Tribunal for advice before he disposes of the revision petition. On receipt of such a request, the General Manager shall refer the case to the Chairman, Railway Tribunal for advice sending all the relevant papers.

On receipt of the revision application by the General Manager, or on receipt of advice from the Railway Rates Tribunal, as the case may be, the General Manager shall dispose of the application in accordance with the procedure laid down in Rule 25 and pass such orders as he may think fit.”

Have become defunct and redundant.

3. Accordingly, Railways may dispose off all the pending cases at the level of General Manager, as provided for in Rule 24(2) of Railway Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1968, without any reference to RRT, which has since ceased to exist.

4. This also disposes off all references made to this office on the subject matter.

5. Necessary changes/amendments to Rule 24(2) of Railway Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1968 shall follow.


No. P[R] 541/IV Date: 04.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1 dated 09.04.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1 dated 09.04.2020

Sub: State Railway Provident Fund- Rate of interest during the year 2020-2021 (1st April, 2020 to 30th June, 2020)

***

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A copy of Government of India’s Resolution No.5 (2)-B(PD)/2020 dated 7th April 2020 issued by the Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) prescribing interest at the rate of 7.1% (Seven point one percent) w.e.f. 1st April, 2020 to 30th June, 2020 on accumulation at the credit of the subscribes to State Railway Provident Fund, is enclosed, for information and necessary action.

Copy of Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) New Delhi’s, Resolution F.No.5(2)-B(PD)/2020 dated 07.04.2020

R E S O L U T I O N

It is announced for general information that during the year 2020-2021, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 7.1% (Seven point one per cent) w.e.f. 1st April, 2020 to 30th June, 2020.This rate will be in force w.e.f. 1st April, 2020. The funds concerned are:

1. The General Provident Fund (Central Services) 2. The Contributory Provident Fund (India). 3. The All India Services Provident Fund. 4. The State Railway Provident Fund. 5. The General Provident Fund (Defence Services). 6. The Indian Ordnance Department Provident Fund. 7. The Indian Ordnance Factories Workmen's Provident Fund. 8. The Indian Naval Dockyard Workmen's Provident Fund. 9. The Defence Services Officers Provident Fund. 10. The Armed Forces Personnel Provident Fund.

2. Ordered that the Resolution be published in Gazette of India.

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.45/2020 No. P[R] 53/VI Date: 04.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/7/2/3 dated 27.04.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/7/2/3 dated 27.04.2020

Sub: Freezing of Dearness Allowance to Railway Employees and Dearness Relief to Railway Pensioners at current rates till July 2021.

***

A copy of the Office Memorandum No.1/1/2020-E-II(B) dated 23.4.2020 of Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) on the above mentioned subject is enclosed herewith for necessary action and compliance. This order shall apply mutatis mutandis on Railways also.

2. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority and concurrence of Associate Finance Railway Board.

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Copy of Ministry of Finance Department of Expenditure O.M.No.1/1/2020-E-II (B) dated 23.04.2020

Sub: Freezing of Dearness Allowance to Central Government Employees and Dearness Relief to Central Government Pensioners at current rates till July 2021.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that in view of the crisis arising out of COVID-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of Dearness Allowance payable to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to Central Government pensioners, due from 1st January 2020 shall not be paid. The additional instalments of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief due from 1st July 2020 and 1st January 2021 shall also not be paid. However, Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief at current rates will continue to be paid.

2. As and when the decision to release the future instalment of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief due from 1st July 2021 is taken by the Government, the rates of Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief as effective from 1st January 2020, 1st July 2020 and 1st January 2021 will be restored prospectively and will be subsumed in the cumulative revised rate effective from 1st July 2021. No arrears for the period from 1st January 2020 till 30th June 2021 shall be paid.

3. These orders shall be applicable to all Central Government employees and Central Government pensioners.


No. P[R] 227/XVII Date: 13.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020/MISC/04 dated 27.04.2020 (RBE.No.35/2020) is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020/MISC/04 dated 27.04.2020 (RBE.No.35/2020)

Sub: Exclusion of the lock down period while adhering to the timelines in various administrative and quasi- judicial processes.

***

Government of India’s decision not to count the period of lock down for adhering to the timelines in various administrative and quasi- judicial processes as contained in DoP&T’s Office Memorandum F.No.11012/09/2016-Estt A-III dated 30.03.2020 is hereby circulated for strict compliance by Railways/Production Units in the context of the corresponding rules and subsidiary instructions if any as applicable on the Railways.

Copy of DoP&T’s O.M.No. 11012/09/2016-Estt A-III dated 30.03.2020

Sub: Counting of the limitation period for the diverse purposes under CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965, CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972- reg.

***

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The undersigned is directed to refer to Central Civil Services (Classification, Control & Appeal ) Rules, 1965 [CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965] and Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 [CCS (Pension) Rules 1972] and the instructions issued under these Rules wherein certain timelines have been prescribed for various activities/events/procedures relating to procedures under the said Rules for instance, in the said Rules/ Instructions, time limits have been prescribed for the following:

(i) Review of order of suspension before its expiry date (Rule 10(6) of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965)

(ii) Submission of written statement of defence on the charge-sheet by the charged officer [Sub Rule 4 in Rule 14 of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965]

(iii) issuance of charge sheet once a decision is taken by the Disciplinary Authority to initiate Disciplinary proceedings (DoP&T’s O.M. No. 425/04/2012-AVD-IV(A) dated 29.11.2012)

(iv) completion of inquiry and submission of report by the inquiring Authority [Sub rule (24) in Rule 14 of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965]

(v) disciplinary proceedings initiated against a Pensioner shall not be in respect of an event which took place four years before such initiation [Rule 9 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972]

(vi) Acceptance of notice of VRS under Rule 48A of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 (The list is only illustrative and not exhaustive)

2. Consequent upon the outbreak of COVID-19 and considering the unprecedented situation of the Lockdown w.e.f. 24th March 2020, it may not be feasible to adhere to the timelines prescribed in the said Rules and to the instructions issued under the Rules. It has accordingly been decided not to count the period of the Lockdown for the purposes of adherence to the prescribed timelines, including those listed above. For example, if the due date for completing a process/work/event at the start of the Lockdown falls after 20 days, then the due date will get postponed by the number of Lockdown days and the same number (20) of days will be available to complete the work after the Lockdown is lifted.

3. However, after the Lockdown is lifted, if the time left to complete the task is less than 15 days then the processes may be allowed to be completed within 15 days.

4. In addition, timelines may have been prescribed for receipt of applications for direct recruitment deputation etc., where the last date of receipt of application for direct recruitment deputation etc, falls within the period of the Lockdown, the last date shall be extended by the number of days of the Lockdown. Similarly, the time limits prescribed in the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, for various purposes shall also be extended by the number of days of the Lockdown.

93

5. These instructions are applicable only in such cases where there is an intervening Lockdown period and it will not be applicable otherwise.

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP)2020/6/1 dated 30.04.2020 (RBE.No.37/2020) is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP)2020/6/1 dated 30.04.2020 (RBE.No.37/2020)

Sub: Forwarding of MSDE’s Notification regarding- clarification on payment of stipend to apprentices and reimbursement of stipend to establishments under NAPS during COVID-19 lockdown.

***

A copy of Office Memorandum No.MSDE-1(3)/2020/AP(PMU) dated 30.03.2020 issued by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship regarding payment of stipend to apprentices and reimbursement of stipend to establishments under NAPS during COVID-19 lockdown is enclosed for information and necessary action.

***

Copy of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship O.M.No. MSDE-1(3)/2020AP(PMU) dated 30.03.2020

Sub: Clarification on payment of stipend to apprentices and reimbursement of stipend to establishments under NAPS during COVID-19 lockdown.

*** As per reference of Apprentices Act, 1961 amended up to 2014 and Apprenticeship Rules, 1992 amended up to 2019. Sub-rule2(b) of Rule 7 states that if a trade apprentice is unable to complete the period of apprenticeship training due to strike or lockdown or layoff in an establishment where he is undergoing training and is not instrumental for the same, the period of his apprenticeship training shall be extended for a period equal to the period of strike or lockout or layoff, as the case may be, and shall be paid stipend during the period of such strike or lockout or layoff or for a maximum period of six months, whichever is less. 2. In view of the above, as per the lockdown imposed by Government of India due to COVID-19 pandemic, all establishments shall pay full stipend as applicable to the apprentices engaged in their respective establishments under both designated and optional trade during this time period. Further, reimbursement of stipend to establishments under National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) shall be paid by the Government for the lockdown period as per the NAPS guidelines.

3. This issues with approval from competent authority.

***

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Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 12.05.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 12.05.2020

Sub: Cancellation of Periodical Transfers of the staff.

*** Taking into account the extraordinary situation created by the pandemic COVID-19, it has been decided by the Competent Authority that the unimplemented periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts be reviewed and pended till 31st July, 2020.

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2017/I/7/5/8 dated 11.05.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 08.08.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 112/2019.


Sub: Clarification on restriction of Officiating Pay under FR-35 (Rule 1329 IREC Vol.II) in the context of RS(RP) Rules, 2016.

***

Subsequent to adoption of Department of Personnel & Training’s (DoP&T) OM No.1/4/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 28.02.2019 regarding restriction of Officiating Pay under FR-35 (Rule 1329 IREC Vol.II) in the context of RS (RP) Rules, 2016 in lieu of Charge Allowance vide Board’s letter RBE. No. 127/2019 dated 08.08.2019, clarification has been sought by many Railways on issues related to FR-35.

2. The crux of the issues raised by all the Railways is broadly as under:-

(i) Pay fixation methodology on regular promotion to JAG following officiating appointment after 01.07.2017.

(ii) Pay fixation as per Para-4 (illustration-3) of DoP&T’s OM dated 28.02.2019.

(iii) Pay fixation after adoption of instant instructions in respect of Railways servants who have otherwise been officiating in higher grade prior to 01.07.2017.

3. The other issues raised by the Railways relate to (i) quantum of increment which in certain cases turns out to be less than 3% (ii) date of adoption of DoP&T’s OM on

95

FR-35, (iii) drawal of higher pay by a junior officer in case his officiating appointment was made earlier to a senior officer etc.

4. In order to address the various issues raised by Zonal Railways, a detailed FAQ alongwith suitable illustration to be followed in different circumstance are enclosed as Annexure-I

5. This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate and Competent Authority.

Encl: As above

Annexure-I

S No Query Clarification 1. Fixation of pay in case an officer

of junior batch gets the benefit of officiating pay and his pay in the officiating level fixed higher to pay of senior officer drawing pay in lower level.

Pay fixation methodology is enclosed at Annexure ‘A’.

2. Fixation of pay in case of different dates of officiating in higher grade in respect of officers of same batch working in different railways .

Pay fixation methodology is enclosed at Annexure ‘B’.

3. Fixation of pay as per Para-4 (Illustration 3) of DoP&T’s OM dated 28.02.2019.

Pay fixation methodology is enclosed at Annexure ‘C’.

4. Pay fixation after adoption of instant instructions in respect of railway servants who have otherwise been officiating in higher grade prior to 01.07.2017.

Pay fixation methodology is enclosed at Annexure ‘D’.

5. As per instructions contained in DoP&T’s OM, in case of where pay of the officials (in Level-11) is fixed after granting the maximum benefit under FR-35 (i.e. 12.5% of Basic Pay subject to a maximum of Rs.6700) falls below the first Cell in the officiating grade (Level-12), their pay after grant of increment as per the given condition of one year after reaching/surpassing minimum of the level of the officiating grade turns out to be only Rs.300.

Instructions issued by DoP&T cover all the Ministries under Government of India. While granting benefit under FR-35, the conditionality specified therein has to be adhered to and no unilateral deviation with respect to the instructions issued by DoP&T can be made.

6. Fixation of pay in case of an officiating railway servant working in one Railway is transferred to

Benefits under the instant instructions are to be given to an officer when he is officiating in a higher level. When the

96

another Railway and posted in substantive capacity.

officer is posted in his substantive capacity, he will not be entitled for any of the benefit under these instructions.

7. Date of adoption of DoP&T’s instructions with effect from 01.07.2017 whereas the DoP&T has adopted the same with effect from 01.01.2016.

Prior to 7th Central Pay Commission, Charge Allowance was granted in Indian Railways to officers officiating on a higher post in administrative exigencies and this date till which the allowance under the 6th CPC regime in force. It was only from 01.07.2017 that grant of Charge Allowance has to be discontinued, as such a conscious decision has been taken by the Competent Authority after considering all aspects to adopt the instructions issued by DoP&T regarding restriction of officiating pay under FR-35 with effect from 01.07.2017.

8. Pay fixation after regular promotion in the respective grade.

Pay fixation shall be done on the basis of substantive pay in the feeder grade.

# Note: After pay fixation in any of the case(s), annual increment shall be accrued strictly in terms of relevant provisions of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 and subsequent instructions in this regard.

Annexure’A’

CASE-I: In case an officer of junior batch gets the benefit of officiating pay and his pay in the officiating level fixed higher to pay of senior officer drawing pay in lower level.

S.No. Event Employee A (Senior) Employee B (Junior) working in another Railway

1. Pay as on 01.07.2017 (Senior Scale)

80900 in Level -11 78500 in Level -11

2. Date of officiating in JAG (Level-12)

15.01.2019 10.07.2017

3. (i) Pay on officiating in Level-12 as per Rule 13 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016

Pay as on 01.07.2017: 80900 in Level-11 Pay as on 01.07.2018: 83300 in Level-11 Pay as on 15.01.2019 ( Date of Officiating in higher grade): 86100 in Level -12

Pay as on 01.07.2017: 78500 in Level-11 Pay as on 10.07.2017 ( Date of Officiating in higher grade): 81200 in Level -12

(ii) Pay after restriction under FR-35 in terms of para 2 & 3 of DoP&T’s OM.

86100 in Level -12 (w.e.f. 15.01.2019)

81200 in Level -12 (w.e.f. 10.07.2017. From this date Junior officer started drawing higher pay in

97

officiating level w.r.t. senior officer drawing lower pay in lower level. No Stepping Up of Pay is admissible in this case)

4. Date of Regular Promotion in JAG (Level-12)

05.03.2020 10.01.2021

5. Pay fixation with effect from the date of Regular Promotion in JAG after grant of promotional increment as per Rule 13 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016*.

Pay as on 01.07.2017: 80900 in Level-11 Pay as on 01.07.2018: 83300 in Level-11 Pay as on 01.07.2019: 85800 in Level-11 Pay as on 05.03.2020 (date of regular promotion): 88700 in Level-12


Note: The Illustration is indicative only. Option for fixation of pay from Date of Next Increment under FR-22 (Rule 1313) is also available and Cell in Level-12 may change as per option exercised by the employee.

Annexure’B’

CASE-II: Different dates of officiating in higher grade in respect of officers of same batch working in different Railways

S.No. Event Employee A (Senior in the batch)

Employee B

1. Pay as on 01.07.2017 (Senior Scale)

80900 in Level -11 80900 in Level -11

2. Date of officiating in JAG

15.01.2019 10.07.2017 (employees B has been officiating in higher grade earlier to Employee A though both belonging to same batch)

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3. (i) Pay on officiating in Level-12 as per Rule 13 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016

Pay as on 01.07.2017: 80900 in Level-11 Pay as on 01.07.2018: 83300 in Level-11 Pay as on 15.01.2019 ( Date of Officiating in higher grade): 86100 in Level -12

Pay as on 01.07.2017: 80900 in Level-11 Pay as on 10.07.2017 ( Date of Officiating in higher grade): 83600 in Level -12

(ii) Pay after restriction under FR-35 in terms of para 2 & 3 of DoP&T’s OM.

86100 in Level -12 (w.e.f. 15.01.2019)

83600 in Level -12 (w.e.f. 10.07.2017. From this date Employee ‘B’ started drawing higher pay in officiating level w.r.t. employee ‘A’ drawing lower pay in lower level. No Stepping Up of Pay is admissible in this case)

4. Date of Regular Promotion in JAG grade (Level-12)

05.03.2020 05.03.2020

5. Pay fixation with effect from the date of Regular Promotion in JAG after grant of promotional increment as per Rule 13 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016*.



Note: The Illustration is indicative only. Option for fixation of pay from Date of Next Increment under FR-22 (Rule 1313) is also available and Cell in Level-12 may change as per option exercised by the employee.

Annexure’C’

CASE-III: Fixation of Pay as per Para-4 (Illustration-3) of DoP&T’s OM dated 28.02.2019

(a) Officiating in Level-7 from Level-6

S.No Event Particulars 1. Pay as on 01.07.2017 Rs. 36500 in Level-6 2. Date of Officiating in Level-7 15.08.2017 3. Pay after grant of one increment in Rs. 37600 in Level-6

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Level-6 4. Minimum Cell value in Level-7 Rs. 44900 5. Increase in Pay Rs. 44900- Rs. 37600= Rs.8400

The increase is more than increase of 12.5% of 36500 ( Rs. 4562.5) which is substantial increase for the purpose of restriction of pay under FR.

6. Pay fixation in Level-6 on the date of Officiating in higher grade.

Therefore, basic pay is to be fixed at Rs. 36500 + Rs. 4562.50= Rs. 41062.50 in Level-6 Since no such cell is available, the pay is to be fixed at next cell Rs.41100 in Level-6 breaching the limit of 12.5%

7. Pay as on 01.07.2018 after accrual of annual increment

Rs. 42300 in Level-6


Rs. 43600 in Level-6


Rs. 44900 in Level-6 The pay has reached to minimum of the Level of Officiating post i.e. Level-7. After one year of reaching/surpassing the pay fixation shall be done in Cell-2 of the Level of the Pay Matrix of the Officiating post i.e. Level-7.

10. Pay as on 01.07.2021 Rs.46200 (Cell-2 of Level-7)

(b) Officiating in JAG (Level-12) from Senior Scale (Level-11).

S.No Event Particulars 1. Pay as on 01.07.2017 Rs. 71800 in Level-11 2. Date of Officiating in Level-12 15.08.2017 3. Pay after grant of one increment in

Level-11 Rs. 74000 in Level-11

4. Minimum Cell value in Level-12 Rs. 78800 5. Increase in Pay Rs. 78800- Rs. 71800= Rs.7000

The increase is more than increase of Rs. 6700 which is substantial increase for the purpose of restriction of pay under FR.

6. Pay fixation in Level-11 on the date of Officiating in higher grade.

Therefore, basic pay is to be fixed at Rs. 71800+ 6700= Rs. 78500 in Level -11


Rs. 80900 in Level-11 The pay has surpassed the minimum of the Level of Officiating post i.e.

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Level-12. After one year of reaching/surpassing the pay fixation shall be done in Cell-2 of the Level of the Pay Matrix of the Officiating post i.e. Level-12.

8. Pay as on 01.07.2019 RS. 81200 in Level-12 The increment benefit comes to Rs.81200-80900 = Rs. 300 which is less than 3%. There are grievances to fix pay in such cases at next stage. In this regard, it is advised that deviation from DoP&T’s OM is not permissible.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.50/2020 No. P[R] 240/DR/IV Date: 22.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2019/I/7/5/5 dated 20.05.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 03.10.2017 and 20.06.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 170/2017 and 88/2019, respectively.


Sub: Dress Allowance to Nursing Personnel- clarification regarding.

***

The recommendations of 7th CPC on Dress Allowance, as accepted by Government of India, were adopted in Ministry of Railways vide RBE. No. 141/2017 dated 03.10.2017, followed by a clarification issued vide Letter No. PC-VII/2018/I/7/5/1 dated 20.06.2019. vide the said order dated 03.10.2017, Nurses were granted Dress Allowance @ Rs. 1800 per month w.e.f.01.07.2017.

2. Consequent to implementation of RBE No. 141/2017, clarification have been sought by Railways on whether Assistant Nursing Officers are eligible for grant of Dress Allowance of Rs. 1800 per month.

3. In this context, it is stated that as per the Office Memorandum No.Z.28015/50/2017-N dated 31.08.2017 issued by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Finance (Nursing section), Dress Allowance at the rate of Rs. 1800 per month shall be paid to the Nursing Personnel of all categories at all levels working in Central Government/UT Hospitals/Institutions and Centrally funded autonomous bodies. In view of the same, it is clarified that Nursing Personnel of all categories at all levels working in Railway Hospitals are eligible for grant of Dress Allowance @ Rs 1800 per month. Accordingly, Assistant Nursing Officers are eligible for grant of Dress Allowance of @ Rs 1800 per month if they had been receiving uniform material and associated

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allowances like Uniform Allowance, Washing Allowance etc. Prior to 1st July, 2017 i.e. date of admissibility of Dress Allowance.

4. The other terms and conditions stipulated in RBE No.141/2017 and clarification dated 20.06.2019 shall remain unchanged.


*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.51/2020 No. P[R] 554/VII Date: 26.05.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020 RN 2-COVID-19 dated 19.05.2020 [RBE No.38/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020 RN 2-COVID-19 dated 19.05.2020 [RBE No.38/2020]

Sub: One time relaxation for retention of railway accommodation in view of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

*** Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, vide their OM No.12035/2/2020-Pol-II dated 25.03.2020, has allowed suo-motu retention for the period from 17.03.2020 to 31.05.2020 for the allottees under the Central Government General Pool Residential Accommodation (CGGPRA) Rules 2017. This suo-moto retention has been further extended up to 30.06.2020 by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs vide their OM dated 05.05.2020.

2. Keeping in view the above, Board have decided to allow suo-motu retention of railway accommodation by officers/staff for the period from 17.03.2020 to 30.06.2020. The suo-motu retention period will be on payment of licence fees as applicable to the allottees under these rules. No damage rent will be charged for this period. These relaxations will be given to such allottees also where she/he has become unauthorized occupant of government accommodation before 17.03.2020. However, in such cases, after the retention period up to 30.06.2020, the damage charges at telescopic rates, as was continuing prior to this period, will be resumed.


***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.52/2020 No. P[R] 605/XIV Date: 02.06.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2017/PM 1/11 dated 22.05.2020 [RBE No.39/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 14.01.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 11/2020.

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Sub: Filling up the post of Instructors in recognized Training Institutes- clarification- reg.- corrigendum.

***

Attention is invited to instructions contained in Board’s letter of even number dated 14.01.2020, which inter-alia provides as under:

“ The matter has been examined and it is clarified that on the analogy of provisions contained in Para 219(j)(ii) and (iii) of IREM Vol.I all those candidates who score not less than 60% marks in the written test (professional ability), should be called for class room lecture trial, and the final panel should be drawn in the order of seniority from amongst those who secure a minimum of 60% marks in the professional ability and 60% marks in the aggregate.’

The term “the final panel should be drawn in the order of seniority” as appearing in Para 3 of the aforesaid instructions, should be corrected to read as’, “final panel should be drawn in the order of merit”.

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC VI/2018/R-I/1 Pt. dated 21.05.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC VI/2018/R-I/1 Pt. dated 21.05.2020

Sub: Grant of annual increment due on 1st July to the employees retiring on 30th June of the year.

***

A number of representations are being received in this office seeking grant of one notional increment as due on 1st July in favour of employee retiring on 30th June before drawing the same, exclusively for the purpose of pensionary benefits.

2. As the Railways are aware, the annual increment is granted to railway employees on completion of laid down qualifying service for the purpose. Based on the recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission, as accepted by the Government of India, Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008 were notified on the lines of Central Civil Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2008. As per Rule 10 of above Rules, it was stipulated that there will be a uniform date of annual increment, viz. 1st July of every year and employees completing 6 months and above in the revised pay structure as on 1st of July will be eligible to be granted the increment. There has been no change in the above rule/ extant policy so as to enable grant of increment (notional or actual) on 30th June, where it was due on the following 1st July.

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3. In the various representations being received in this office, certain judgements in the case of Shri. Ayyamperumal, an employee of Department of Revenue are being cited. As the details of above court matter and policy decision of concerned nodal departments were not available in this office, the matter was referred to concerned departments of Government of India seeking their advice/ guidelines.

4. DOP&T vide their O.M dated 11.11.2019 have stated that the judgement passed in the case of Shri P. Ayyamperumal is in personam. Further, the judgement pronounced by Hon’ble High Court of Madras in P.Ayyamperumal case, as endorsed by Hon’ble Supreme Court, is based on the decision in the case of M. Balasubramaniam, which was related to Fundamental Rules of State Govt. However Central Government employees are governed by Central Government Rules. Further, Hon’ble High Court of Andhra Pradesh at Hyderabad in C. Subbarao case has inter-alia observed that “A person who retires on the last working day would not be entitled for any increment falling due on the next day and payable next day thereafter, because he would not answer the tests in these Rules,: A copy of DOP&T O.M dated 11.11.2019 is enclosed herewith.

5. The Railways are therefore advised to take further necessary action to dispose off the pending representations on the issue based on above position and advice of DOP&T. The pending court cases may also be defended accordingly. Further, in case any clarification/ inputs are required relating to railway Fundamental Rules and Railway Penison Rules, Finance (Estt.) dte. may also please be consulted being the nodal directorate on these aspects. This issues with the approval of DG/HR, Railway Board.

Ministry of Personnel, P.G and Pensions

Copy of DOP&T’s O. M. No.1396752/2019-Estt (Pay-I) dated 11.11.2019

Sub: Representations regarding grant of annual increment to the employee, retires on 30th June of the year- regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to letter No. PC VI/2018/R-I/1 of Ministry of Railways dated 14/10/2019 on the subject cited above wherein comments of this Department has been sought on the directions of Hon’ble CATs issued in several court cases filed by Railways employees seeking the benefits of notional increment for the pensionary benefits as per the judgement in P.Ayyamperumal case.

2. In this matter, with reference to Central Government employees, the following is hereby stated:

2.1 In so far as P. Ayyamperumal case is concerned, referred in the instant cases also, it is stated that the judgement Hon’ble High Court of Madras in P.Ayyamperumal case is in personam.

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2.2. Further, the case of Sh. M. Balasubramaniam referred by Hon’ble High Court in it’s judgement in P.Ayyamperumal case is related to Fundamental Rules of Tamilnadu Government whereas P.Ayyamperumal case relates to Central Government Rules.

2.3 It is relevant to mention here that in a similar matter, Hon’ble High Court of Andhra Pradesh at Hyderabad in year 2005, in C.Subbarao case, has inter-alia observed as under:

“In support of the above observations, the Division Bench also placed reliance on Banerjee case (supra), we are afraid, the Division Bench was not correct in coming to the conclusion that being a reward for unblemished past service, Government servant retiring on the last day of the month would also entitled for increment even after such increment is due after retirement. We have already made reference to all Rules governing the situation. There is no warrant to come to such conclusion. Increment is given (See Article 43 of CS Regulations) as a periodical rise to a Government employee for the good behaviour in the service. Such increment is possible only when the appointment is “Progressive Appointment” and it is not a universal rule. Further, as per Rule 14 of the Pension Rules, a person is entitled for pay, increment and other allowances only when he is entitled to receive pay from out of Consolidated Fund of India and continues to be in Government service. A person who retires on the last working day would not be entitled for any increment falling due on the next day and payable next day thereafter (See Article 151 of CS Regulations), because he would not answer the tests in these Rules. Reliance placed on Banerjee case (supra) is also in our considered opinion not correct because as observed by us, Banerjee case (supra) does not deal with increment, but deals with enhancement of DA by the Central Government to pensioners. Therefore, we are not able to accept the view taken by the Division Bench. We accordingly, overrule the judgement in Malakondalah case (supra).”

2.4 In addition, subsequent to the judgement of Hon’ble High Court of Madras in P.Ayyamperumal case, Hon’ble CAT Madras Bench vide its Orders dated 19.03.2019 in O.A.No.310/00309/2019 and O.A No.310/00312/2019 and Order dated 27.03.2019 in O.A.No.310/00026/2019 has also dismissed the similar requests related with notional increment for pensionary benefits.

2.5 The Hon’ble Supreme Court, vide judgement date 29.03.2019, while dismissing the SLP (C) Dy. No.6468/2019 filed by D/o- Telecommunications against the judgement dated 03.05.2017 of Hon’ble High Court, Lucknow Bench in WP No.484/2010 in the matter of UOI & Ors. Vs Sakha Ram Tripathy & Ors., has inter-alia observed the following:

“There is delay of 566 days in filing the special leave petition. We do not see any reason to condone the delay. The Special leave petition is dismissed on delay, keeping all the questions of law open.”

3. Further, it is also stated that this Department’s OM No.20036/23/1988-Estt.(D) dated 06.01.1989 provides that since each case is to be contested on the basis of the specific

105

facts and circumstances relevant to it, the administrative Ministry/Department (D/o- Ministry of Railways in the instant case) will be in a better position to defend the case if required. If, however, any clarification is required on the interpretation or application of the rules or instructions relevant to the case, the concerned department in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions may be approached for that purpose. It further provides that the primary responsibility, however, for contesting such cases on behalf of the Government will be that of the administrative Ministry/Department concerned. Further, the Cabinet Secretariat D.O. letter No.6/1/1/94-Cab dated 25.02.1994 as also the Cabinet Secretary’s D.O. letter no.1/50/3/2016-Cab dated 16.06.2016 and the Department of Expenditure’s OM No. 7(8)/2012-E-III(A) dated 16.05.2012 inter-alia provide that (i) a common counter reply should be filed before a Court of Law on behalf of the Union of India by the concerned administrative Department/Ministry where the petitioner is serving or has last served; and (ii) a unified stand should be adopted instead of bringing out each Department’s/Ministry’s point of view in the said reply. It further provides that it is primarily the responsibility of the Administrative Ministry to ensure that timely action is taken at each stage a Court case goes through and that a unified stand is adopted on behalf of Government of India at every such stage. In no case should the litigation be allowed to prolong to the extent that it results in contempt proceedings.

4. Ministry of Railways is requested to take appropriate action in the light of above observations.


No. P[R] 184/V Date: 05.06.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2017/SCC/03/06 dated 22.04.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2017/SCC/03/06 dated 22.04.2020

Sub: Extension in timelines for generation of PAR and submission of self appraisal for PAR year 2019-20-reg.

Ref: Board’s letter of even number dated 15.03.2018 and 07.12.2018

***

With reference to the letters mentioned above a schedule for completion of APARs of Railway Officers was advised to all Zonal Railways.

2. In the light of situation arising out of spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). It has been decided to revised the time schedule for some of the activities relating to recording of APAR. This relaxation is a one-time measure only for the APAR year 2019-2020 and is subject to condition that no remarks shall be recorded in the APAR for the year 2019-20 after 31.12.2020. where the reporting, reviewing and accepting authority fail to record their comments within the time frame, the officer reported upon may be

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assessed on the basis of the overall record and self assessment for the year, if he has submitted his self appraisal within stipulated time.

2.1 The extended timelines shall also apply to the reporting/reviewing/accepting authorities, who have demitted office or retired from service on or after 29.02.20. They shall be allowed to record their remarks till the respective extended cut-off dates.

3. Accordingly, a revised time schedule is enclosed. Necessary action may be taken accordingly.

Annexure

Time schedule for recording and completion of APAR for the year 2019-2020 for Group ‘A’,‘B’ and ‘C’ officers of Central Civil Services.

S.No Activity Date by which activity to be completed.

(1) (2) (3) 1 Distribution of blank forms 31st May 2020 (May be

completed even a week earlier)

2 Submission of Self-appraisal to reporting officer

30th June 2020

3 Forwarding of report by reporting officer to reviewing officer

31st July 2020

4 Forwarding of report by reporting reviewing officer to APAR Cell/Accepting Authority (wherever provided)

31st August 2020

5 Appraisal by Accepting Authority, wherever provided

30th September 2020

6 (i) Disclosure of APAR to the officer reported upon where there is no accepting authority (ii) Disclosure of APAR to the officer reported upon where there is accepting authority

10th September 2020 10th October 2020

7 Receipt of representation, if any, on APAR 15 days from the date of disclosure

8 Forwarding of representation to the competent authority (a) Where there is no accepting authority for APAR (b) Where there is accepting authority for APAR

30th September 2020 31st October 2020

9 Disposal of representation by the competent authority

Within one month of the date of receipt of representation by the competent authority

10 Communication of the decision of the competent authority on the representation by

Within 15 days of finalization of decision by competent

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the APAR cell authority 11 End of entire APAR process, after which

APAR will be finally taken on record 31st December 2020

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.55/2020 No. P[R] 436 IREM/Vol.VIII Date: 10.06.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2018/PM2/1 dated 28/29.05.2020 [RBE No.40/2020] {ACS No.272} is published for information, guidance and necessary action. The word “Selection Controller” mentioned in the Board’s above letter may be read as ‘Section Controller’.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2018/PM2/1 dated 28/29.05.2020 [RBE No.40/2020] {ACS No.272}

Sub: Mode of filling up the posts of Section Controller- Amendment of Para 125 of IREM Vol.I.

***

Consequent to the discontinuation of Direct Recruitment of Traffic Apprentices, the issue of mode of filling up the posts in the cadre of Section Controller’s in modication of the provisions contained in Para 125(1) of IREM Vol.I, has been under consideration in consultation with the Traffic Directorate, and the two recognized Federation, i.e. AIRF and NFIR.

2. It has now been decided by the Board that the posts of Section Controller in GP. Rs 4200 (Level 6) may be filled up as under:-

a) 75% by Promotion from the feeder category in the following proportion:

i. Station Master 55%

ii. Guards 10%

iii. Shunting/TNC 10%

b) 25% by LDCE from all eligible categories.

3. Para 125 of Indian Railway Establishment Manual Vol.I, accordingly stands amended as per ACS No.272 enclosed Herewith.

***

Indian Railways Establishment Manual, Vol.I, 1989 (First Reprint Edition, 2009)


Chapter-1, Section ‘B’, Sub-Section-III containing rules governing recruitment and training of Group ‘C’ staff.

108

1.Substitute the following for existing Para 125(1) of IREM, Vol.I

125 a) 75% by Promotion from the feeder category in the following proportion:

i. Station Master 55%

ii. Guards 10%

iii. Shunting/TNC 10%

b) 25% by LDCE from all eligible categories.

(Authority:- Railway Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2018/PM2/1 dated 28.05.2020)

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.56/2020 No. P[R] 473/X Date: 15.06.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)/2020/PS5-2/7 dated 15.06.2020 [RBE No.45/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)/2020/PS5-2/7 dated 15.06.2020 [RBE No.45/2020]

Sub: Extension of validity of Passes/PTOs consequent to national lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

***

The requests received from National Federation of Indian Railwaymen (NFIR), All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) and others for extending the normal validity period of Passes/PTOs consequent to the situation emerged due to national lock down and cancellation of passenger train services have been examined in detail in consultation with Commercial Dte. of Railway Board.

2. Keeping in view the extraordinary circumstances, the Competent Authority has recorded his approval for extension of validity of Passes/PTOs, permitting issuance of year-ending Passes/PTOs, etc as per following guidelines:-

(i) The validity of Privilege Passes (PP)/PTOs, Post Retirement Complimentary Passes (PRCP) and Widow Passes (WP) shall be extended as indicated in the table below:-

Category Validity to be extended upto

I) PREVIOUS YEAR (2019) PASSES/PTOs ISSUED IN PREVIOUS YEAR a) Issued from 23rd Oct 2019 to 30th Nov. 2019 15th Jul.2020 b) Issued from 01 Dec 2019 to 30th Dec. 2019 15th Aug.2020 II) YEAR ENDING PASSES/PTOs OF 2019 a) Already issued on/after 31st Dec. 2019 OR b) To be issued with the notional date of 31st Dec. 2019

31st Aug

109

III) CURRENT YEAR (2020) PASSES/PTOs a) Issued from 01st Jan 2020 to 31st Jan 2020 15th Sep. 2020 b) Issued from 01st Feb 2020 to 29th Feb 2020 15th Oct.2020 c) Issued from 01st Mar 2020 to 31st Mar 2020 15th Nov.2020

(ii) The Pass Issuing Authorities (PIA) shall make endorsement as “Validity Extended upto ________" on the Passes/PTOs as per table under para 2(i) above. Even if ticked booking has been made on such Passes/PTOs for travel during the lockdown period, validity extension endorsement as stipulated shall be made, irrespective of ticket cancellation status.

(iii) The year-ending PP/PRCP/WP/PTOs of 2019, if due, may be issued till the last date of extended validity period ie. 31st Aug. 2020. However, such Passes/PTOs shall be issued with validity upto 31st Aug. 2020 only, irrespective of the date of issue.

(iv) The Railway Servants, who has retired during the lockdown period and could not draw PP/PTOs as per entitlement while in service, may be permitted to draw PPs/PTOs as admissible under Railway Servants (Pass) Rules as a special dispensation. PP/PTOs in such cases may be issued, reckoning the date of retirement as notional date of issue of PP/PTO, stipulating extended validity on the lines of table under para 2(i) above.

(v) In the case of full set Passes/PTOs, whose validity expired but only half-set has been used for onward journey, the validity of such Passes/PTOs may be extended as per table under para 2(i) above by the nearest PIA where the beneficiary is stuck. The PIA will also make an additional endorsement on such Passes/PTOs as “valid for return journey only”.

(vi) (a) In the case of Duty Card Passes, whose validity expired and the pass holder is stuck in any other Station, fresh Duty Cheque Pass with 15 days validity from the date of resumption of train services to his/her HQ may be issued by the nearest PIA with the same travel entitlement as stipulated in the expired Duty Card Pass.

(b) In the case of full set Duty Cheque Passes, whose validity expired but only half-set has been used for onward journey, the validity of such Duty Cheque Passes may also be extended by 15 days from the date of resumption of train services to his/her HQ by the nearest PIA with an additional endorsement as “valid for return journey only”.

(vii) The validity of Transfer Passes, Kit Passes, Settlement Passes, School Passes and Special Passes on medical grounds, etc. Which have already been issued, may be extended on the lines of table under para 2(i) above by the PIAs, taking due note of associated conditions of such Passes and requirements in view.

(viii) The validity of Passes/PTOs, etc issued to the officials of Railway Audit Department and also the officials of the other Departments serving Indian Railways on

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deputation, shall also be extended at par with that of Railway Servants as per table under para 2(i) above.

(ix) The validity of Complimentary ‘Admin’ Cheque Passes admissible to non-railway servants viz., Staff of Commission of Railway Safety, Sahayaks (Licensed Porters), full time regular staff employed in quasi-railway Institutions/Federations/Recognized Unions/SBF Units, etc with validity period at par with Railway Servants, may also be extended on the lines of table under para 2(i) above.

3. The Zonal Railways & PUs may advise all the PIAs under their control to make necessary endorsement(s) on the Passes/PTOs accordingly. The PIAs may also be advised not to stipulate any specific date/time limit on their own for receiving requests for endorsement, drawal of year-ending Passes/PTOs of 2019, etc and to entertain requests till the last day of extended validity period indicated in the table under para 2(i) above to avoid crowding and rush in Pass Sections.

4. Fresh Passes/PTOs to be issued henceforth against the current calendar year (i.e.2020) account shall be for the normal validity period of five months only.


***


Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2016/AL-7/1 dated 09.06.2020 [RBE No.43/2020]{PC-VII No.155} is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 28.08.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 153/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2016/AL-7/1 dated 09.06.2020 [RBE No.43/2020]{PC-VII No.155}

Sub: Recommendations of 7th Central Pay Commission- Grant of Conveyance Allowance at the revised rates to Railway Medical Officers.

***

Consequent to the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission, the Ministry Health & Family Welfare, vide their O.M. No.A-45012/04/2017-CHS-V (Pt.) dated 9th April, 2019 (copy enclosed), have decided in consultation with Ministry of Finance that revised rates of Conveyance Allowance admissible to Central Health Service Doctors working under the Central Health Service may be granted as per the rates mentioned in the DOE’s OM.No.1903903/2017-E.IV dated 19th July, 2017 (circulated vide Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2017/AL-4/3 dated 10.08.2017). MoH&FW’s O.M. dated 9th April, 2019 shall apply mutatis-mutandis to Railway Medical Officers also.

111

2. These orders are issued in supersession of all earlier orders including Board’s letter of even number dated 29.08.2018.

***

Copy of MoH&FW’s (CHS Division)O.M. No. A-45012/04/2017-CHS-V (Pt.) dated 9th April, 2019

[FTS No.3164690]

Sub: Recommendations of 7th Central Pay Commission- Grant of Conveyance Allowance at the revised rates to Central Health Service (CHS) working in Hospitals/Dispensaries/Stores in CGHS units under Central Government- regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that the recommendation of 7th Central Pay Commission regarding revision of rates of Conveyance Allowance admissible to Central Health Service (CHS) doctors working in Hospitals/Dispensaries/Stores in CGHS units under Central Government have been under consideration of the Government for some time in consultation with the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.

2. The Competent Authority has decided that the Conveyance Allowance to Central Health Service (CHS) doctors may be granted as per rates mentioned in the DoE’s OM No.1903903/2017-E.IV dated 19th July, 2017. The copy of the same is enclosed for ready reference.

3. These orders are issued in supersession of all the earlier orders on the subject including order No.Z-15025/DIR/CGHS/Conveyance/JACSDO/2017/174452 dated 02.02.2018 issued by Directorate General of CGHS.

4. This issues with the concurrence of Department of Expenditure vide their ID No.A-27023/1/2017/E.II B/7th CPC dated 13.03.2019.

***

Copy of Ministry of Finance & Department of Expenditure O.M.No. 19039/03/2017-E.IV dated 19.07.2017

Sub: Implementation of the recommendation of the Seventh Central Pay Commission- conveyance Allowances.

***

Consequent upon the acceptance of the recommendation of the Seventh Central Pay Commission and in supersession of this Department OM. No. 19039/02/2008-E.IV, dated 23rd September, 2008 the President is pleased to revise the rates of Fixed Conveyance Allowance admissible under SR-25 to Central Government employees as indicated below:

Average Monthly Travel on Official Duty

For Journey by Own Motor Car

For Journey by other Modes of Conveyance

201-300 km 1680 556

112

301-450 km 2520 720 451-600 km 2980 960 601-800 km 3646 1126 >800 km 4500 1276

2. These rates shall automatically increase by 25% whenever the Dearness Allowance payable on the revised pay structure goes up by 50%.

3. Conditions and provisions mentioned in SR 25 shall continue to apply

4. These orders will be effect from 1st July, 2017.

5. In so far as the staff serving in the Audit and Accounts Department are concerned, these orders issue in consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.58/2020 No. P[R]473/XI Date: 29.06.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2009/PS5-10/2 dated 11.06.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 23.02.1996, 04.07.1996 and 11.12.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 69/1996, 98/1996 and 02/2020 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2009/PS5-10/2 dated 11.06.2020

Sub: Extension of validity of Complimentary Card Passes (CCPs) issued to recipients of Gallantry Awardees (both Police and Defence)-reg.

***

Please refer to Board’s letters dated 23.2.96 and 04.07.96 and subsequent clarifications issued thereon regarding grant of facility of CCPs to the recipients of Gallantry Awardees- Defence and Police. Further, vide Board’s letter of even number dated 11.12.2019, validity of CCPs to PMG awardees was extended from one to two years.

2. In supersession of the Board’s letter dated 11.12.2019 ibid, it has now been decided to extend the validity of these CCPs to THREE years for all Gallantry Awardees i.e., recipients of Chakra Awards and PMG and PPMG Awards.

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.59/2020 No. P[R]554/VII Date: 06.07.2020

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Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020 RN 2-COVID-19 dated 01.07.2020 [RBE No.47/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 19.05.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 51/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2020 RN 2-COVID-19 dated 01.07.2020 [RBE No.47/2020]


***

Vide letter of even number dated 19.05.2020 (RBE No.38/2020), Board had allowed suo-motu retention of railway accommodation by officers/staff for the period from 17.03.2020 to 30.06.2020 in line with the decision taken by the ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for the allottees of General Pool Residential Accommodation Considering the hardships faced by allottees in hiring alternate accommodation, arranging labour for shifting due to increase in COVID-19 cases, Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs, vide their OM No.12035/2/2020.Poll.II dated 22.06.2020, have now allowed additional 15 days i.e. upto 15.07.2020 on the same terms and conditions contained in their OM dated 05.05.2020 and advised the concerned allottees to vacate the accommodation on or before 15.07.2020 to avoid levying of damage charges/market rent.

2. In line with the above decision of Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Board have, in partial modification of Board’s letter of even number dated 19.05.2020, decided to allow additional 15 days i.e. up to 15.07.2020 to all the railway employees occupying railway quarters on the same terms and conditions. Railway officers/staff occupying railway quarters are accordingly advised to vacate the railway accommodation on or before 15.07.2020 to avoid levying of damage charges/market rent.


***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 60/2020 No. P[R]563/XIII Date:13.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/E(Sports)/4(1)/11 dated 22.06.2020 [RBE No.44/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 31.12.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.09/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/E(Sports)/4(1)/11 dated 22.06.2020 [RBE No.44/2020]

Sub: Selection trials for recruitment against sports quota.

***

114

Attention is invited to para no. 8.2.11.4 of Railway Board’s instruction No.2010/E(Sports)/4(1)/1/Policy dated 31.12.2010 which states that “trials by the trial committee shall be conducted in the presence of all the members of the trial committee and recruitment committee.”

2. It has been observed in a vigilance case that members of Recruitment Committee were not present during trials of Sports recruitment. It is hereby reiterated that, strict compliance of the provision may be ensured in all Sports recruitment.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 61/2020 No. P[R]75/IX Date:13.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2020/AL-28/13 dated 08.07.2020 [RBE No.50/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 16.05.2016 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.138/2017.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2020/AL-28/13 dated 08.07.2020 [RBE No.50/2020]

Sub: Guidelines for air travel on Official Tours; sending requests through e- mail only.

***

In accordance with the instructions contained in the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure’s O.M. Nos .19024/1/2009-E-IV, dated 13.07.2009, 16.09.2010 & 28.07.2011 on the subject, as communicated by Ministry of Civil Aviation, certain guidelines (alongwith the proforma for seeking relaxation to travel by airline other than Air India, as issued by MoF) were circulated vide Board’s letter No. F(E)I/2016/AL-28/25 dated 16.05.2016 regarding grant of permission to travel by airlines other than Air India for official air travel (both domestic and international) by Railway officers. The guidelines were reiterated/ re-circulated and updated from time to time on the receipt of further instructions from MoF.

2. At present, the request of Railway officers for air travel including those seeking relaxation to travel by airline other than Air India are being received in Board’s Office for approval either by post or by fax, both are paper consuming media. More so, request by post are most often received after the scheduled date of journey, while these should reach at least 07 working days in advance from the date of journey.

3. For some time past, emphasis is being given on paper-less office. Recently, the use e- office has been made compulsory in Board’s Office and all files are to be put up electronically through e-office portal. Also, in the present situation of COVID-19 pandemic, handling of papers/ physical files are not advisable.

4. Recently economy, austerity and cost control measures have been circulated to all Indian Railways through Board (FC)’s D.O. Letter No. 2015-B-235, dated

115

19.06.2020. Para-I.(f) & V. (j) of Enclosure to this letter inter alia provides for reduction in instances of TA by 50% and curtailment of travel expenditure. While Para-V. (b) inter alia provides that for correspondences secure e-mail should be used.

5. In view of the above, all India Railways/PUs are advised that:

(i) travel by air should be avoided as far as possible, guidelines issued by Board’s Office in this regard from time to time should be strictly adhered to.

(ii) all the requests for air travel including those seeking relaxation/permission to travel by other than Air India flight must be submitted to Railway Board at least 07 working days in advance from the scheduled date of travel, in duly filled proforma prescribed by MoF, alongwith all necessary documents e.g. tour programme duly approved by competent authority, papers indicating the non-availability of AI flights etc. Through email only (preferable by NIC mail).

6. The email ID for the purpose is [email protected]. The request may be mailed under the subject line “Air travel Request”.

7. This issues with the approval of Board (FC).

8. Strict compliance of the letter may be ensured.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 62/2020 No. P[R]288/I Date:14.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1(Pt.) dated 10.07.2020 [RBE No.52/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1(Pt.) dated 10.07.2020 [RBE No.52/2020]

Sub: Review of policy regarding re-engagement of Group ‘C’ staff.

***

With a view to reduce cost and improve sayings in Establishment related expenditure, it has been decided by Full Board that General Managers’ may review and personally decide the quantum of re-engaged Group ‘C’ staff to continue only where it is absolutely necessary for safety reasons.

2. Railways may, therefore, review services of all re-engaged employees except services of those engaged in healthcare related services including para-medical staff. After review, General Managers’ may permit Railways to continue services of staff where it is absolutely necessary for safety reasons. As regards other re-engaged retired employees, whose services are not found to be absolutely necessary for safety reasons, their services may be considered for termination.

116

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 63/2020 No. P[R]563/XIII Date:21.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/PM 1/9 dated 06.07.2020 [RBE No.49/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 20.08.1993 and 10.04.2018 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos.90/1993 and 70/2018, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/PM 1/9 dated 06.07.2020 [RBE No.49/2020]

Sub: General Department Competitive Examination (GDCE) for filling up of 25% net direct recruitment quota vacancies in Group ‘C’ categories- Extension of currency upto 31.03.2022.

***

Since the introduction of the scheme of General Department Competitive Examination (GDCE) vide Board’s letter No.E(NG)192/PM 2/16 dated 20.08.1993 for a period of one year, the currency of the same, is being extended from time to time, and the same was last extended upto 31.03.2020 vide this Ministry’s letter No.E(NG)I-2011/PM1/2 dated 10.04.2018.

The matter regarding further extension of currency of the scheme has been considered and it has been decided by the Competent Authority that the currency of the GDCE scheme may be extended for a further period of two years i.e. upto 31.03.2022.

The instructions regarding the clarification/modification in the GDCE scheme issued from time to time may also be kept in view while implementing the same.

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 64/2020 No. P[R]500/XXVI Date:23.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 02.07.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 11.07.2017 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 94/2017.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 02.07.2020

Sub: Revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners in implementation of Government’s decision on the recommendation of the 7th Central Pay Commission- Concordance Table Corrigendum – regarding.

***

A copy of Department of Pension of Pensioner’s Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M.No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 18th June, 2020 with revised Table No.29 is enclosed for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis

117

mutandis on the Railways also. DOP&PW’s O.M. of even number dated 06.07.2017, referred to in the enclosed O.M. dated 18.06.2020, was circulated on Railways vide Board’s letter of even number dated 11.07.2017.

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 18.06.2020 OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners in implementation of Government’s decision on the recommendation of the 7th Central Pay Commission- Concordance Table Corrigendum – regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s OM of even number dated 06.07.2017 on the subject mentioned above and to say that there is some error in the entries relating to the pre-revised pay of Rs.21820/- (6th CPC Grade Pay Rs.5400/-, 7th CPC Level-9) in Table 29 enclosed therewith.

2. It is requested that the existing Table 29 may be substituted by the enclosed Table 29. The revised entries have been shown in bold letters.

*** Table No.29

Scale of pay /Pay in the pay Band & Grade Pay at the time of retirement

From 01.01.1986 to 31.12.1995

2200-75-2800-100-4000

From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

8000-275-13500

From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

9300-34800 GP 5400

Corresponding level w.e.f. 1.1.2016

Level-9 (53100-167800)

Basic Pay From 01.01.1986 to 31.12.1995

Basic Pay From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

Basic Pay From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

Pay range for pensioners retired during 1.1.2006 to 31.12.2015

Notional Pay as on 01.01.2016

Revised Pension/ Enhanced Family pension (if applicable) w.e.f. 1.1.2016

Revised Family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016

Minimum

Maximum

2200 8000 20280 20660 53100 26550 15930 2275 8000 20280 20660 53100 26550 15930 2350 8000 20280 20660 53100 26550 15930 2425 8275 20800 20670 21280 54700 27350 16110

118

2500 8275 20800 20670 21280 54700 27350 16110 2575 8275 20800 20670 21280 54700 27350 16110 2650 8550 21310 21290 21900 56300 28150 16890 2725 8550 21310 21290 21900 56300 28150 16890 2800 8550 21310 21290 21900 56300 28150 16890 2900 8825 21820 21910 22560 56300 28150 16890 3000 9100 22330 21910 22560 58000 29000 17100 3100 9375 22840 22570 23220 59700 29850 17910 3200 9650 23350 23230 23920 61500 30750 18450 9925 23870 23930 24630 63300 31650 18990 3300 10200 24380 23930 24630 63300 31650 18990 3400 10175 24890 24640 25360 65200 32600 19560 3500 10750 25400 25370 26140 67200 33600 20160 3600 10750 25400 25370 26140 67200 33600 20160 3700 11025 25910 25370 26140 67200 33600 20160 3800 11025 25910 25370 26140 67200 33600 20160 3900 11300 26420 26150 26920 69200 34600 20760 4000 11300 26420 26150 26920 69200 34600 20760 4100 11575 26930 26930 27740 71300 35650 21390 4200 11850 27450 26930 27740 71300 35650 21390 4300 11850 27450 26930 27740 71300 35650 21390 12125 27960 27750 28560 73400 36700 22020 12400 28470 27750 28560 73400 36700 22020 12675 28980 28570 29410 75600 37800 22680 12950 29490 29420 30310 77900 38950 23370 13225 30000 29420 30310 77900 38950 23370 13500 30510 30320 31200 80200 40100 24060 13775 31030 30320 31200 80200 40100 24060 14050 31540 31210 32140 82600 41300 24780 14325 32050 31210 32140 82600 41300 24780 32150 33110 85100 42550 25530 33120 34120 87700 43850 26310 34130 35130 90300 45150 27090 35140 36180 93000 46500 27900 36190 37270 95800 47900 28740 37280 38400 98700 49350 29610 38410 39570 101700 50850 30510 39580 40770 104800 52400 31440 40780 41980 107900 53950 32370 41990 43220 111100 55550 33330 43230 44510 114400 57200 34320 44520 45830 117800 58900 35340 45840 47190 121300 60650 36390 47200 48590 124900 62450 37470 48600 50030 128600 64300 38580 50040 51550 132500 66250 39750 51560 53110 136500 68250 40950 53120 54700 140600 70300 42180

119

54710 56340 144800 72400 43440 56350 58010 149100 74550 44730 58020 59760 153600 76800 46080 59770 61550 158200 79100 47460 61560 63380 162900 81450 48870 63390 65290 167800 83900 50340

******


Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 02.07.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 10.8.2016, 22.05.2017 and 06.03.2018 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 83/2016, 73/2017 and 54/2018, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 02.07.2020

Sub: Regulation of pension and other retirement benefits of Railway servants who were on Extraordinary leave/unauthorized leave/unauthorized absence/ suspension as on 01.01.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty-regarding.

***

A copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 22nd June, 2020 is enclosed for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Rule 33 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 corresponds to the Rule 49 of the Railway Service (Pension) Rules, 1993 and Rule 9(21)(a)(i) of the Fundamental Rules referred to therein corresponds to clause (i) of Rule 1303 of IREC-Vol.II/1987 Edition.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to the DOP&PW’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid O.M. dated 22nd June, 2020 are given under:-

S.No. DOP&PW’s instructions Railway Board’s Corresponding instructions.

1. O.M. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016

Letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 10.08.2016

2. O.M. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.05.2017


3. O.M. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.02.2018


***

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A) dated 22.06.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

120

Sub: Regulation of pension and other retirement benefits of Railway servants who were on Extraordinary leave/unauthorized leave/ unauthorized absence/ suspension as on 01.01.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty-regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that in accordance with Rule 33 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, for calculation of pension, the expression ‘emoluments’ means basic pay as defined in Rule 9(21) (a) (i) of the Fundamental Rules which a Government servant was receiving immediately before his retirement or on the date of his death. In accordance with Note 3 under this rule, if a Government servant immediately before his retirement or death while in service had been absent from duty on extraordinary leave or had been under suspension, the period whereof does not count as service, the emoluments which he drew immediately before proceeding on such leave or being placed under suspension shall be the emoluments for the purpose of this rule.

2. Doubts have been raised in regard to the manner in which the pension and other retirement benefits of Government servants, who were on extraordinary leave/unauthorized absence/suspension as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty, would be regulated. The matter has been examined in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) and the following clarifications are issued:

Category of Government servant Manner in which pension and other pensionery benefits are to be regulated

Government servant, who was on extraordinary leave/unauthorized absence the period whereof does not count as qualifying service- as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty.

In accordance with Rule 33 of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972, the basic pay which he drew immediately before proceedings on such leave shall be the emoluments for the purpose of pension. The pension/family pension thus calculated will be revised in the accordance with the instructions contained in the Department’s O.M No. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.05.2017 read with O.M. No. 38/37/16-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016 and will be paid to the pensioner/family pensioner from the date it becomes due. For the purpose of gratuity, the emoluments shall also include Dearness Allowance (as per 6th CPC) admissible on the date of retirement/death of the Government servant. The Pension/family pension/commutation of pension and

121

gratuity will be regulated in accordance with the rules/instructions applications applicable before 1.1.2016

Government servant, who was on extraordinary leave – the period whereof counts as qualifying service – as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty.

The pay of such a Government servant will be notionally revised w.e.f. 1.1.2016 and this notionally revised basic pay will be reckoned as emoluments for the purpose of pension. For the purpose of gratuity, the emoluments shall also include Dearness Allowance (as per 7th CPC) admissible on the date of retirement/death of the Government Servant. His pension/family pension, commutation of pension and gratuity will be regulated in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s O.M. No.38/37/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.05.2017 read with O.M. No. 38/37/16-P&PW(A)(i) dated 04.08.2016 and will be paid to the pensioner/family pensioner from the date it becomes due.

Government servant, who was under suspension as on 1.1.2016 and retired thereafter without joining duty.

Such a Government servant, on retirement, is entitled to only provisional pension. The emoluments which he drew immediately before suspension shall be the emoluments for the purpose of provisional pension. This provisional pension will be revised in accordance with Department’s O.M. No. 38/49/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.02.2018. The provisional pension will be reviewed/regularized on conclusion of the departmental/judicial proceedings and issue of final orders thereon.

3. These orders issue with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) vide their U.O. No. 1(23)/EV/2019 dated 05.02.2020.

4. n their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, the orders are issued under Article 148(5), of the Constitution with the concurrence of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

*****

122

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 66/2020 No. P[R]75/IX Date:28.07.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2020/AL-28/6 dated 23.07.2020 [RBE No.56/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 19.08.2010 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 120/2010, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2020/AL-28/6 dated 23.07.2020 [RBE No.56/2020]

Sub: Revised admissibility to travel by Taxi/reimbursement of Taxi hire charges for using one’s own car for local official journeys at or near Headquarters.

***

In terms of Board’s letter No.F(E)I/2009/AL-28/42, dated 19.08.2010 (RBE No.123/2010), post 6th CPC instructions regarding admissibility to travel by Taxi /reimbursement of Taxi hire charges for using one’s own car for local official journeys at or near Headquarters were issued.

2. In supersession to the above mentioned instructions dated 19.08.2010, it has now been decided with the approval of DG/HR & Board (FC & CRB) that Group ‘B’ & ‘C’ Railway servants may be allowed reimbursement of scooter or bus fare as the case may be and Group ‘A’ Railway servants may be allowed reimbursement of taxi or scooter or bus fare, as the case may be, for local official journeys at or near Headquarters.

3. These orders will come into force with immediate effect.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/43/2020-F(E)III dated 21.07.2020 [RBE No.55/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.


Sub: Dispensing with the requirement of BSR code of Bank from the pension claim forms- regarding.

*** A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No. 12/12/2020-P&PW(C)-6526 dated 27th June, 2020 is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Form 5 and Form 14 of the Central Civil Service (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to the Form 8 and Form 10 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993, respectively.

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Copy of DOP&PW’s OM. No.12/12/2020-P&PW(C)-6526 dated 27.06.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Dispensing with the requirement of BSR code of Bank from the pension claim forms.

***

While submitting pension claim form, a retiree or family member has to provide the detail of his/her bank account, IFSC and BSR code of concerned bank branch. This Department has received many representations from retirees to dispense with the requirement of BSR codes from pension claim form as it is neither written in the passbook nor available on the website of concerned bank. In order to get information of the BSR code, sometimes a retiree has to make multiple visits to the concerned bank branch.

2. Therefore in order to avoid hardship of retiree and family members, it has been decided to dispense with the requirement of BSR code for processing all type pension cases with immediate effect. Henceforth a retiree and family pensioner will not be required to provide detail of BSR code while submitting form 5 or form 14. Only the bank account detail along with IFSC will be taken for processing the pension claim.

3. The Administrative Divisions of all Ministries/Department and attached/subordinate offices are requested to bring these instructions to the notice of all concerned for compliance.

This issues with the approval of the competent authority.

****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 68/2020 No. P[R]541/IV Date: 04.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1pt. dated 29.07.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2003/PF1/1pt. dated 29.07.2020

Sub: State Railway Provident Fund- Rate of interest during the year 2020-21 (1st July, 2020 – 30th September, 2020).

***

A copy of Government of India’s Resolution No. 5(2)-B[PD]/2020 dt. 13th July, 2020 issued by the Ministry of Finance (Dept. of Economic Affairs) prescribing interest at the rate of 7.1% [Seven point one per cent] w.e.f. 1st July, 2020 to 30th September, 2020 on accumulations at the credit of the subscribers to State Railway Provident Fund, is enclosed for information and necessary action.

*** Copy of Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) New Delhi’s, Resolution F.No.5(2)-B(PD)/2020 dated 13.07.2020

124

R E S O L U T I O N

It is announced for general information that during the year 2020-2021, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the General Provident Fund and other similar funds shall carry interest at the rate of 7.1% [Seven point one per cent] w.e.f. 1st July, 2020 to 30th September, 2020. This rate will be in force w.e.f. 1st July, 2020. The funds concerned are: 1. The General Provident Fund (Central Services) 2. The Contributory Provident Fund (India). 3. The All India Services Provident Fund. 4. The State Railway Provident Fund. 5. The General Provident Fund (Defence Services). 6. The Indian Ordnance Department Provident Fund. 7. The Indian Ordnance Factories Workmen's Provident Fund. 8. The Indian Naval Dockyard Workmen's Provident Fund. 9. The Defence Services Officers Provident Fund. 10. The Armed Forces Personnel Provident Fund. 2. Ordered that the resolution be published in Gazette of India.

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 69/2020 No. P[R]554/VIII Date: 04.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2014 QR 1-3 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE No.59/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 06.11.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 209/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2014 QR 1-3 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE No.59/2020]

Sub: Permission to retain Railway quarters at previous place of posting by Railway personnel on posting to Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli.

***

In terms of Railway Board’s letter of even number dated 06.11.2018 (RBE No. 172/2018) approval of the Railway Board was conveyed by relaxing the existing rules/provisions permitting Railway officers/staff posted to Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli (erstwhile RCF/Raebareli) to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting on payment of normal rent upto 30.06.2019. 2. The issue of further extension of period for retention of Railway accommodation at previous place of posting on normal rent by Railway officials posted to Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli has been considered by full board and in exercise of the powers to relax in public interest the existing provisions regarding allotment/retention of Railway quarters and the rent to be charged therefore for a class/group of employees, Full Board have decided to extend the retention period beyond 30.06.2019 upto 31.12.2020.

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*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 70/2020 No. P[R]676/V Date: 07.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 07.08.2020 [RBE No.65/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 07.08.2020 [RBE No.65/2020

Sub: Cancellation of Periodical Transfers of the staff.

Ref: (1) This office letter of even No. dated 30.07.2020.

(2) Rly.Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 12.05.2020 (Circulated as Establishment Serial Circular No.48/2020)

***

Reference Board’s letter of even no. dated 12.05.2020, vide which Railways were advised that the unimplemented periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts be reviewed and pended till 31.07.2020 due to the extra ordinary situation created by the pandemic COVID-19.

2. In view of the ongoing pandemic situation, on request from both the Federation i.e. AIRF & NFIR, the matter has been further reviewed by the Board, and it has been decided by the Competent Authority that the periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts by pended till 31st March, 2021.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)Spl./2009/FR/1/3/(Part-2) dated 03.08.2020 [RBE No.63/2020, PC-VII No.156/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)Spl./2009/FR/1/3/(Part-2) dated 03.08.2020 [RBE No.63/2020, PC-VII No.156/2020]

Sub: Clarification regarding reckoning of Additional Post allowance (APA) for DA/HRA under 7th CPC.

***

Attention is invited to instructions contained in F(E)Spl.90/FR/Misc./2 dated 06.05.1992 (RBE No.64/92) providing reckoning of additional pay/presumptive pay for DA/HRA/CCA. References have been received in this office from Zonal Railways

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seeking clarification whether dearness allowance/house rent allowance etc. other than special pay will be payable on APA.

2. The matter has been examined in consultation with DoP&T and it is clarified that Dearness Allowance (DA) and House Rent Allowance (HRA) shall not be admissible on Additional Post Allowance.

(This disposes of Central Railway ‘s letter No.AC/EG/APA/DA dated 06.02.2019 and East Central Railway’s letters No.ECR/Fin/Estt./006/Misc/4017 dated 20.08.2019 & No.ECR/Fin/Estt./006/Misc/4618 dated 18.10.2019)

****


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2008/SB/19/BP/TADK/Pt. A dated 06.08.2020 [RBE No.64/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2008/SB/19/BP/TADK/Pt. A dated 06.08.2020 [RBE No.64/2020]

Sub: Policy of Appointment of TADK on the Railways.

***

The issue regarding appointment of TADK is under review in Railway Board. It has, therefore, been decided that any appointment of fresh face substitutes as TADK should not either be processed or made with immediate effect. Further, all cases approved for such appointments since 1st July 2020 may be reviewed and position advised to Board. This may be complied with strictly in all Railway establishments.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 73/2020 No. P[R]500/XXVI Date: 13.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. D-43/43/2020-F(E)III dated 28.07.2020 [RBE No.58/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.


Sub: Provisional release of retirement benefits as per Rule 91 of Railway Service (Pension) Rules, 1993- regarding.

*** A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No. 12/9/2020-P&PW(C)-6450 dated 17th July, 2020 along with proforma for sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Rule 64 and Rule 72(5) of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to

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Rule 91 and Rule 16(5) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 respectively. Also, Form 5 and Form 3 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, referred to in the aforesaid O.M. dated 17th July, 2020, correspond to Form 8 and Form 6 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993, respectively.

Para 3(f) of the proforma for sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity will also include the provision of Rule 16(8) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules,1993 in cases of railway servant who have been allotted railway quarters and are in occupation of that the time of retirement.

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 12/9/2020-P&PW(C)-6450 dated 17th July, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Provisional release of retirement benefits as per Rule 64 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 during Covid Pandemic time.

*** The undersigned is directed to say that in view of the unprecedented situation which has arisen due to the outbreak of COVID-19, there may be cases where the processing of pension case of a retiring Government servant gets delayed due to various factors. A Government servant may find difficulty in submission of his pension Forms (Form 5, Form 3, etc.) to the Head of Office (HOO) or the Head of Office (HOO) may not be able to forward the claim form in hard copy along with service book to the concerned Pay & Accounts Office in time, particularly when both the offices are located in different cities. There may also be cases where the Pay and Accounts Office is not able to process the case for authorization of pension before the retirement of the Government servant.

2. Rule 64 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 provides for sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity in cases where a Government servant is likely to retire before finalization of his pension and gratuity. In order to ensure timely payment of pension and retirement gratuity on retirement of a Government servant. Wherever a Government servant is likely to retire before finalization of his pensionary benefits, the Head of Office may rely upon the information as available in the official records and take action to sanction provisional pension and provisional gratuity, with the approval of the Head of Department. The provisional pension and provisional gratuity, may be sanctioned in those cases also, where retiring Government servant is unable to submit the pension claim Forms for any reason. In cases where it is not possible to verify the entire length of qualifying service immediately, provisional gratuity may be sanctioned in respect of the verified continuous spell of service immediately preceding the date of retirement. A copy of the draft letter for sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity is enclosed.

3. The Pay & Accounts Office shall consider the case on the basis of details of last emoluments and length of qualifying service indicated by the Head of Office and release the provisional pension and provisional gratuity in the same manner as pay and

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allowances of the establishment are paid. The Pay & Accounts Office shall not insist for complete documents of the case, including service book, at the stage of release of provisional pension and provisional gratuity.

4. These instructions shall also be applicable in cases where the Government servant retires otherwise than on superannuation, i.e. voluntary retirement, retirement under FR 56 etc.

5. In cases where the amount of provisional pension is later found to be in excess of the final pension, the excess amount to pension may be adjusted in the manner indicated in Rule 64 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

6. The payment of provisional pension sanctioned in accordance with para 2 above, may initially continue for a period not exceeding six months from the date of retirement. The period of provisional pension may be further extended, in exceptional cases, with the concurrence of PAO and after approval by the Head of Department. However, the total period or provisional pension shall, in no case, be more than one year from the date of retirement.

7. The date from which the final pension shall be commenced by the Pension Disbursing Authority (PDA), may be indicated by the Pay & Accounts Office in the PPO. The date for commencement of final pension by the PDA shall be at least two months after the date of issue of the PPO, taking into consideration the time likely to be taken by CPAO and CPPC to process the pension case. Pay & Accounts Office shall record a note in the PPO, as mentioned below, while authorizing the final pension.

“Provisional pension has been/shall be paid by the office for the period from____ to ____ @ Rs. ______ plus DA. The payment of final pension shall commence from the bank w.e.f. _____.”

The payment of provisional pension shall, accordingly, continue from the office till the date mentioned in the PPO for commencement of final pension by the PDA so that there is no gap between the date upto which the provisional pension is to be paid and the date of commencement of final pension by the PDA.

8. The instructions in this OM, in so far as they are at variance with the provisions of rule 64, shall be applicable till the work in offices is affected due to the outbreak of COVID-19. These instructions would be reviewed by this Department after normalcy is restored. The provisions of Rule 64 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 shall stand relaxed to the extent indicated above.

9. The Administrative Divisions of all Ministries/Department and attached/subordinate offices are requested to bring these instructions to the notice of all concerned for compliance.


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***

No________________

Government of India

Ministry of __________

Department/Office______

Dated the ________

To

Shri/Smt./Km.________

___________

___________

(Name, designation and address of the Government servant)

Sub: Sanction of provisional pension and provisional gratuity in favour of (Shri/Smt./Km________________)

Sir,

I am directed to say that Shri/Smt./Km_______ (Name and Designation) of this Ministry/ Department/office has retired/ is due for retirement from Government service with effect from ______ However there is likely to be a delay in assessment and settlement of his/her pension and gratuity and issuing Pension Payment Order. Shri/Smt./Km______ was drawing/ shall be drawing a basic pay of Rs ______ on the date of retirement and he/she has ________ submitted Form 5 on _______/has not submitted Form 5 so far.

2. In accordance with Rule 64 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, sanction of the competent authority is here by accorded authorizing payment of the following:

* (i) An amount of Rs _______ /- per month as provisional pension for a priod commencing from ________ (Date following the date of retirement of Government servant)

** (ii) An amount of Rs. _____/- as provisional gratuity

* The amount of provisional pension shall be 100% of pension calculated based on emoluments and qualifying service on the date of retirement.

** The amount of provisional gratuity shall be calculated after withholding 10% of the amount of gratuity from the amount of retirement gratuity calculated based on the emoluments and qualifying service on the date of retirement. In cases where it is not

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possible to verify the entire length of qualifying service immediately, provisional gratuity may be sanctioned in respect of the verified continuous spell of service immediately preceding the date of retirement.

3 The following are the details of Government dues which will be recovered out of the amount of provisional gratuity indicated in para 2 above. (a) Balance of the house-building or conveyance advance Rs. (b) Overpayment of pay and allowances including leave salary

Rs.

(c) Income Tax deductible at source under the Income Tax Act, 1961 (43 of 1961)

Rs.

(d) Arrears of license fee for occupation of Government accommodation

Rs.

(e) The amount of license fee for the retention of Government accommodation for the permissible period beyond the date of retirement

Rs.

(f) Amount to be withheld as per intimation of the Directorate of Estates under rule 72 (5), if any

Rs.

(g) Any other assessed/ dues and nature thereof Rs. (h) Amount to be withheld on account of unassessed govt. due

Rs.

Total 3. The payment of provisional pension shall continue for a period of six months

for the period from _____ to _____ OR

The payment of provisional pension has been further extended with the concurrence PAO for the period from ____ to ______ (Period to be specified, provided that provisional pension will not be extended in any case after one year of retirement.)

In case the PPO determining the amount of final pension and the amount of final gratuity is issued before the expiry of a period of six months from the date of retirement or the extended period, the payment of provisional pension shall discontinue from the date of commencement of final pension, to be indicated in the Pension Payment Order.

4. If the amount of provisional pension is found to be in excess of the final pension, the excess amount of pension shall be adjusted out of the withheld amount of gratuity failing which it shall be recovered in instalments by making short payments of the pension payable in future.

Yours faithfully,

Head of Office

Copy for information to: The Pay and Accounts Officer.

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***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 74/2020 No. P[R]605/XIV Date: 13.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2015/CFP/5 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE No.62/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 15.12.2015 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.151/2015.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2015/CFP/5 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE No.62/2020]

Sub: Clarification regarding educational qualification for promotion to the post of Jr.Clerk (Office Clerk) in Level -2 against 16 2/3% quota.

***

Attention is invited to Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2015/CFP/5 dated 15.12.2015 stipulating minimum educational qualification as 12th pass or its equivalent examination with not less than 50% marks in aggregate, for promotion to Gr-‘C’ posts against 16-2/3% quota.

2. The issue as to whether Railway servants in Level-1 having higher qualification in the stream of (10+2+3) but have not passed 12th (+2 stage) with 50% marks, could be considered eligible to appear in the selection to the post of Junior Clerk etc. aginst the said quota, has been engaging the attention of Board.

3. The matter has been considered by the Board and it is clarified that the minimum of 50% marks in aggregate may not be insisted upon in the case of those candidates who possess qualifications higher than 12th (+2 stage) to appear in the selection for promotion as Junior Clerk, Office Clerk etc. against 16-2/3% promotional quota.

(This disposes off MCF/Raebareli’s letter No.E-4/Promotion/Jr.Clerk/LDCE dated 06.02.2020).

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 75/2020 No. P[R]473/X Date: 24.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6 dated 14.08.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6 dated 14.08.2020

Sub: Guidelines for e-Privilege Pass/PTO Module of HRMS.

***

With a view to promote digital/paperless ticketing, E-Privilege Pass/PTO Module of IRMS has been launched on 10.08.2020 and the same has been operationalised

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across all Indian Railways. In order to facilitate the same, data entry in two modules of HRMS. Employees Master and E-SR has almost been completed across all Zonal Railways.

2. The salient features of E-Privilege Pass/PTO module are as under:-

(i) E-Privilege Pass/PTO module shall be available initially to all serving employees of Indian Railways w.e.f. 24.08.2020 and privilege pass/PTO generated through digital mode can be utilised for booking physical tickets across PRS/UTS counters and online tickets through IRCTC.

(ii) The user guidelines and SOP of this module provided by CRIS are enclosed herewith

(iii) No convenience fee shall be levied by IRCTC in case of online booking of tickets using E-Privilege Pass/PTO.

(iv) The provision of physical passes shall also be there upto 31.10.2020. Employees who wish to avail privilege Pass/PTO in the physical form can avail the same during this period. However, from 01.11.2020 onwards, Privilege Passes/PTOs will be available only in the digital form.

(v) The Complementary passes for retired employees in digital mode will be available tentatively w.e.f 1.10.2020. The details of the scheme will be circulated in due course.

(vi) Those employees who have once switched to E-Privilege Pass/PTO module shall not be able to avail physical passes.

(vii) There will not be any restriction on using the physical pass availed till 31.10.2020 for booking the tickets through PRS/UTS counters till the validity of physical privilege pass/PTO. Since as per extant instructions validity of privilege Passes/PTOs is five months, w.e.f. 01.04.2021, there shall be no booking on physical passes across computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS)/ Unreserved Ticketing (UTS) counters.

(viii) For reserved journey, ticket should be taken from PRS counters/IRCTC website. For unreserved journey, ticket should be taken from UTS counters. UTS Mobile App.

(ix) All rules pertaining to booking of tickets, revalidation, usage, charging etc. regarding privilege pass/PTOs in case of physical passes/PTOs shall remain same in e-privilege passes/PTO, with minor operational amendments, where ever required.

3. Necessary instructions may be issued to all concerned. The user guidelines and the SOP of this module may please be circulated amongst all concerned through all possible modes including e-mail, Notice Board etc. to create awareness.

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4. This issues in consultation with the Establishment and Traffic Commercial Directorates of this office.

5. The above instructions along with enclosures have been uploaded in website http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/railwayboard/ -> Corporate Overview -> Directorates-> Pay Commission-> Pay Commission-VII.

Annexure: E-pass- User Manual/Consolidated guidelines

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)III/2005/PN 1/35 dated 19.08.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 08.04.1985, 24.03.1986, 27.06.2002, 26.09.2005 and 04.11.2009 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 70/1985, 196/1988, 133/2002, 170/2005 and 176/2009, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2005/PN 1/35 dated 19.08.2020

Sub: Mobility of personnel amongst Central/State & Autonomous Bodies while working under Pensionable establishments – regarding.

***

A copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW)’s O.M. No.28/30/2004-P&PW (B) dated 11.06.2020 on the above subject is enclosed for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also.

2. Further, separate instructions with respect to para 9 of DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 11.06.2020 will be issued by Accounts Directorate for accountal of the NPS corpus of the railway servant.

3. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to DOPW’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid O.M. dated 11.06.2020 are given below:

S.No DOP&PW’s instructions Corresponding instructions of Railway Board

1. 28/10/1984-PU dated 29.08.1984 F(E)III/84/PN1/4 dated 08.04.1985 2. 28(10)/84-P&PW Vol.II dated

07.02.1986 F(E)III/84/PN1/4 dated 24.03.1986

3. 38/34/2001-P&PW(F) dated 29.04.2002 F(E)III/2002/PN1/17 dated 27.06.2002

4. 28/30/2004-P&PW (B) dated 26.07.2005

F(E)III/2005/PN1/35 dated 26.09.2005

5. 28/30/2004-P&PW (B) dated 28.10.2009

F(E)III/2005/PN1/35 dated 04.11.2009

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Copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare [DOP&PW]’s O.M. No. 28/30/2004-P&PW[B] dated 11th June, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Mobility of personnel amongst Central/State & Autonomous Bodies while working under Pensionable establishments – regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that the New Pension Scheme (now called as National Pension System) was introduced vide Department of Economic Affair’s notification No.5/7/2003-ECB.PR dated 22.12.2003. it was provided that NPS would be mandatory for all new recruits to the Central Government service from 1st of January 2004 except the Armed Forces.

2. In this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 26.7.2005, it was provided that all employees who joined Central Government service or in the service of an autonomous body set up by the Central Government before 1.1.2004 and who were governed by old pension scheme under the Central Civil Service (Pension) Rules, 1972 will continue to be governed by the same pension scheme/ rules and will count their past service if they take up new appointment in another Ministry / Department of the Central Government or a Central Autonomous Body covered by the CCS (Pension) Rules on or after 1.1.2004, subject to their satisfying the conditions laid down in Para 4 of DP & AR’s O.M.No.28/10/1984-PU dated 29.8.1984.

3. Subsequently, vide this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 28.10.2009, the benefit of counting of past service under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 was extending to those employees who were initially appointed before 1.1.2004 in (i) Central Government Departments covered under Railway Penson Rules or other similar non-contributing pensionable establishments of Central Government covered by old Pension Scheme/ rules other than CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 OR, (ii) State Government covered under old pension scheme similar to CCS (Pension) Rules, OR (iii) Central / State Autonomous Body covered by the old pension scheme and who resigned to join a Central Government Department / Officer or a Central Autonomous Body having pensionable establishment.

4. Representations have been received in this Department from employees who joined under NPS in Central Government / Central Autonomous Bodies after 1.1.2004 but before 28.10.2009, after technical resignation from pensionable establishment of a Central Government Department, State Government or Central / State Autonomous Body and who were denied the benefit of counting of past service in the old pension scheme in the Central Government.

5. The matter has been examined in consultation with Department of Personnel and Training and Department of Expenditure. It has been decided that those employees who joined Central Government / Central Autonomous body under NPS during 1.1.2004 to 28.10.2009 after submitting technical resignation from Central Govt. / Central

135

Autonomous Body or a State Government / State Autonomous Body and who fulfil the conditions for counting of past service in terms of this Department’s O.M. dated 28.10.2009, may be given an option for induction in old pension scheme and to get their past service rendered in the Central /State Government or Central / State Autonomous Body counted for the purpose of pensionary benefits on their final retirement from the Central Government / Central Autonomous Body, subject to fulfilment of all other conditions of counting of such past service in terms of DPAR’s O.M. dated 29.8.1984 read with this Department’s O.M. dated 7.2.1986 as mended from time to time.

6. Such option may be exercised within 3 months of issue of this O.M. Such employees who are appointed under NPS during 1.1.2004 to 28.10.2009 and are eligible to exercise option in terms of para 5 above but do not exercise the option within the stipulated period will continue to be covered by the provisions of National Pension System. Those employees who joined during 1.1.2004 to 28.10.2009, and have already been given the benefit of CCS (Pension) Rules in terms O.M dated 28.10.2009, will continue to be governed by those rules.

7. Those employees who exercise option for counting of past service in accordance with the above provisions may be allowed to avail the benefit under CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. The capitalized value of pension and gratuity for the past service in the Central / State Autonomous Body will be deposited by that Body to the Central Government / Central Autonomous Body in accordance with the instructions contained in the O.M. No.28/10/84- Pension Unit dated 29.8.1984. In case the employee concerned has received the pensionary benefits from the Central Government Departments, State Government, Central / State Autonomous Body, etc., he would be required to deposit the amount of such pensionary benefits (along with interest to be calculated in accordance with this Department’s O.M No.38/34/2001-P&PW(F) dated 29.07.2002) with the Central Government Department/ Central Autonomous Body in which he has joined, to enable counting of past service. The employee’s share in the accumulated wealth of National Pension System with interest / returns accrued thereon under the NPS, would be deposited in the GPF account of the employee. The employer’s share along with interest / returns accrued thereon under the NPS would be deposited in the account of Central Government / Central Autonomous Body in accordance with modalities provided in para 9 of this OM.

8. In some cases, due to non-availability of benefit of counting of past services under the old pension system during 01.01.2004 to 28.10.2009, the employees of State Government/ State Autonomous bodies etc. may have been compelled to take voluntary retirement before joining pensionable Central Government Department / Central Autonomous bodies after 01.01.2004 but before 28.10.2009. It has been decided that ‘voluntary retirement’ of such employees may be treated as ‘technical resignation’ and the benefit of provisions of para 5 to para 7 above may also be extended to them subject to fulfilment of all other conditions for counting of service.

8.1 The forwarding the application through proper channel for the post they had

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joined after getting voluntary retirement is a pre-requisite for considering it as technical resignation.

8.2 The provisions of this O.M is mandatory in all such cases.

9. The modalities of accounting of the NPS accumulation would be as under:

S.No Issues Adjustment process 1. Adjustment employee’s

contribution to NPS Amount may be credited to the individual’s GPF account and the account may be recasted permitting up to date interest. (FR 16 & Rule 11 of GPF Rules)

2. Adjustment of Government contribution to NPS

To be accounted for as (-) Debit to Object Head “70- Deduct Recoveries” under Major Head “ 2071- pension and other Retirement Benefits” and Minor Head “911 – Deduct Recoveries of overpayments” (GAR 35 and Para 3.10 of LMMH and Para 5.1.3 (iii) of Civil Accounts Manual refers)

3. Adjustment of increased value of subscription value of subscription in NPS on account of appreciation of investment

May be accounted for by crediting the amount to Government Account under Major Head “0071- Contribution & Recoveries towards Pension & other Retirement Benefits” and Minor Head “800-Other- Receipts” (Note under above Major Head in LMMH)

10. All Ministries / Departments are requested to bring the contents of these orders to the notice of Controller of Accounts/Pay and Accounts Officers and Attached, Subordinate Offices and Autonomous bodies under them.

11. This issues in consultation with of Ministry of Finance, Deptt. of Expenditure vide ID Note No. 25(6)/EV/2017 Dated 06.01.2020 and in consultation with Controller General of Accounts vide their I.D. Note No.1(7)(2)/2010/c/a/TA/860 dated 18.08.2017.

12. In their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued after consultation with Comptroller and Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution.


No. P[R]500/XXVI Date: 27.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/43/2020-F(E)III dated 25.08.2020 (RBE No. 72/2020) is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/43/2020-F(E)III dated 25.08.2020 (RBE No. 72/2020)

Sub: Relaxation of Rule 96 of Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 for payment of provisional Family Pension on death of a Government Servant during service – regarding.

***

137

A copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW)’s O.M. 1/11/2020-P&PW(E) dated 29th July, 2020 along with proforma for sanction of the provisional family pension is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Rule 54, Rule 80 and Rule 80-A of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to Rule 75, Rule 95 and Rule 96 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 respectively. Also, Form 14 and Form 18 of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, referred to in the aforesaid O.M. dated 29th July, 2020, correspond to Form 10 and Form 16 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993, respectively.

Copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare [DOP&PW]’s O.M. No. 1/11/2020-P&PW (E) dated 29th July 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Relaxation of Rule 80-A for payment of provisional Family Pension on death of a Government Servant during service.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that in accordance with Rule 80-A of the CCS (Pension) Rules 1972, on death of a Government servant during service, Head of Office shall sanction and draw provisional family pension and death gratuity in favour of claimant or claimants, after the family pension case, including Form 18 and other documents referred to in Rule 80, has been forwarded by the Head of Office to the Pay & Accounts Office. It has been brought to the notice of this Department that the process of forwarding the family pension case to Pay & Accounts office along with requisite documents itself takes a long time. It is also understood that, in a large number of cases, provisional family pension and gratuity are not being sanctioned on death of a Government servant. The delay in finalization of family pension and gratuity results in hardship to the family of the deceased Government servant.

2. The matter has been examined in this Department. In accordance with Rule 54 (2) (ii) of the CCS (Pension) Rules, on death of Government servant during service, the family of a deceased Government Servant becomes entitled to family pension even in cases where a government servant dies before completion of one year of continuous service, provided the deceased government servant concerned, immediately prior to his/her appointment to the service or post, was examined by appropriate medical authority and declared fit by that authority. Thus family pension is payable to the family of deceased Government servant irrespective of the length of service of the Government servant before his death. Therefore, verification of the entire service is not relevant for determining the amount of family pension. The amount of death gratuity, however, depends on the length of qualifying service of the deceased Government servant. Any Government dues in respect of the deceased Government servant are also required to be recovered from the amount of death gratuity.

3. Keeping in view the position mentioned in para 2 above and in order to avoid any hardship to the family of the deceased Government servant, it has been decided to

138

relax the provisions rule 80-A of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 to the extent that if a claim for family pension in Form 14 along with death certificate and bank account details of the claimant has been received and the Head of Office is satisfied about the bonafide of that claim, he shall sanction provisional family pension immediately. The Head of Office shall not wait for forwarding of the family pension case (including Form-14, Form- 18 and other relevant documents mentioned in Rule 80) to Pay & Accounts Office before sanctioning the provisional family pension.

4. The amount of provisional family pension shall not exceed the maximum family pension as admissible under Rule 54 of CCS Pension Rule, 1972.

5. In Central Armed Police Forces related cases, where death of an employee occurs, initially provisional family pension may be sanctioned without waiting for the final Operation Casualty Report.

6. The Pay & Accounts Office shall release the provisional family pension on the basis of sanction order issued by the Head of Office without insisting for any other documents including service book. The provisional family pension shall be paid in the same manner as Pay and Allowances of the establishment are paid.

7. A format for sanctioning the provisional family pension by the Head of Department is enclosed.

8. There will be no change in regard to the provisions for sanction of provisional gratuity under Rule 80-A. Action for sanction of death gratuity under rule 80-A may be taken by the Head of Office after forwarding Form-18 and other relevant documents to Pay & Accounts Office. In case the amount of provisional family pension is later found to be in excess of the final family pension, the same may be adjusted from the amount of death gratuity, failing which, it may be recovered in instalments from the family pension payable in future.

9. The payment of provisional family pension sanctioned as per Para 3 above may initially continue for a period of six months from the date, following the date of death of employee. The period of such provisional family pension sanctioned may be further extended, for not more than six months at a time, on the advice of Pay & Accounts Office and with the approval of Head of Department (HOD).

10. The provisional family pension may continue to be paid for two months succeeding the month in which the Pension Payment Order for final family pension is issued by the Pay & Accounts Office, keeping in view the time likely to be taken by Central Pension Accounting Office (CPAO) and Central Pension Processing Centre (CPPC) for processing the case. While authorizing final family pension after receipt of complete family pension case, the Pay & Account office shall indicate the date from which the family pension authorized in the Pension Payment Order is to be paid by the Pension Disbursing Authority. Accordingly, the Office of Pay & Account may record a

139

note in the Pension Payment Order, as mentioned below, while authorizing the final family pension:

“ Provisional family pension has been/shall be paid for the period from______ to _____ @ Rs. _______ plus Dearness Relief. The payment of final family pension may be commenced by the bank w.e.f. ________”

11. The Administrative Divisions of all Ministries/Department and attached subordinate offices are requested to bring these instructions to the notice of all concerned for compliance.

This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.

No……………………………………………………

Government of India

Ministry of………………………………………

Department/Office……………………………

Dated the……………………………………

To

Shri/Smt./Kumari…………………………………………………………… (Name and address of claimant)

Subject: Grant of provisional family pension.

Sir/Madam

I am directed to say that Shri/Smt./Kumari…………………………………… ………………………………………

(Name and designation) died on……………………………………… As per service record you are eligible to receive family pension.

2. In accordance with Rule 80-A of the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rule, 1972 read with the O.M. No.1/11/2020-P&PW(E) dated 29th July, 2020 of Department of Pension & Pensioner’s Welfare, sanction of the competent authority is hereby accorded for payment of an amount of Rs………………/- per month as provisional family pension commencing from…………… (Date following the date of death of Government servant)

* The amount of provisional pension shall be 100% of family pension as assessed based on the pay on the date of Government servant.

3. The payment of provisional family pension sanctioned as per Para 3 of the OM No. 1/11/2020-P&PW(E) dated 29th July, 2020 may initially continue for a period of six months from the date, following the date of death of employee. The period of such

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provisional family pension sanctioned may be further extended, for not more than six months at a time, on the advice of Pay & Accounts Office and with the approval of Head of Department (HOD).

4. If the amount of provisional family pension is found to be in excess of the final family pension, it shall be recovered from gratuity instalments from the family pension payable in future.

Yours faithfully

Head of Department

Copy for information to the Pay & Accounts Officer

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 78/2020 No. P[R]535/XI Date: 27.08.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/2020/PM 1/11 dated 24.08.2020 (RBE No. 71/2020) is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/2020/PM 1/11 dated 24.08.2020 (RBE No. 71/2020)

Sub: Grant of promotion with retrospective effect to the empanelled/selected staff against vacancies – reg.

***

NFIR has raised the issue that due to total Lock down on account of Covid-19 pandemic, the staff promotion have been delayed on Zonal Railways etc., although vacancies existed and staff entitled for promotion against vacancies. It has been stated that some employees entitled for promotion to higher pay levels have retired on superannuation in March and April, 2020, which has deprived them of status, financial and retiral benefits.

The Federation has requested that keeping in view that the legitimate promotions to staff should not be denied or delayed even in extraordinary situations arisen as a result of Covid–19, all such staff may be granted promotion with retrospective effect.

The matter has been considered by the Board, while it may not be a practical solution to offer promotion with retrospective effect, Zonal Railways have been requested that the selection process may be expedited to the extent feasible, taking any special measures during the lockdown etc.

*****


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Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2008/PN 1/20 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.73/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 31.12.2010, quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.07/2011.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2008/PN 1/20 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.73/2020]

Sub: Grant of disability pension, comprising service element and disability element to pre-2006 disability pensioners, who were boarded out from service, with less than 10 years of qualifying service, due to an injury/disability, attributable to Govt. service- regarding.

***

A copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW)’s O.M. No.1/7/2017-P&PW(F) dated 28.07.2020 on the above subject is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW)’s O.M. No.33/5/2009-P&PW(F) dated 10th December,2010 mentioned in the enclosed O.M. was adopted on Railways vide letter of even number dated 31.12.2010. The CCS(EOP) Rules, 1939 corresponds to the Railways Services (Extraordinary Pension) Rules, 1993.

Copy of Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions [DOP&PW]’s O.M.No.1/7/2017-P&PW(F) dated 28.07.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Grant of disability pension, comprising service element and disability element to pre-2006 disability pensioners, who were boarded out from service, with less than 10 years of qualifying service, due to an injury/disability, attributable to Govt. service- regarding

***

The undersigned is directed to say that, considering the hardship being faced by the disabled Government servants, covered under the provisions of CCS (EOP) Rules, the Government had decided to dispense with minimum service required for earning service element of disability pension, with effect from 01.01.2006 and orders were issued vide O.M. No.33/5/2009-P&PW(F), dated 10th December,2010.

2. A doubt has been raised whether the provision of the aforesaid OM, dated 10.12.2010, would be applicable to the Government servants who were boarded out of service, prior to 01.01.2006, with a qualifying service of less than ten years.

3. The matter has been examined and it is clarified that Central Civil Government servants who were boarded out, prior to 01.01.2006, with a qualifying service of less than ten years and were in receipt of only the disability element of disability pension, would also be eligible for the service element of disability pension, w.e.f. 01.01.2006, in addition to the disability element.

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4. For calculating the disability pension w.e.f. 01.01.2006, the disability pension comprising, both the service element and the disability element, will be notionally fixed from the date of boarding out and the same will be notionally revised in accordance with the orders for revision of disability pension, issued from time to time. The actual payment of such revised disability pension would be payable only w.e.f. 01.01.2006. No arrears on account of grant of service element, for the period prior to 01.01.2006, would be admissible. The amount of service gratuity, if any paid, to the Government servant at the time of boarding out would be adjusted from the arrears of pension accruing as a result of these orders.

5. This issues with the concurrence of the Ministry of Finance, Department or Expenditure, vide their I.D. Note No.1(9)/EV/2019 dated 25/06/2020.

6. In their application to the persons belonging to Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued under Article 148(5) of the Constitution and after consultation with the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

7. The Administrative Divisions of all Ministries/Department & attached/subordinate offices are requested to bring the contents of these instructions to the notice of all concerned for compliance.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/F(E)II/3/1 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.69/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/F(E)II/3/1 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.69/2020]

Sub: Protection of pay to the Central Government Servant consequent to appointment to a new post in different service or cadre in Central Government, through direct recruitment where either higher duties and responsibilities are involved or not, as the case may be, under FR-22-B(1) (Rule 1315 of IREC Vol.II, in the 7th CPC scenario- regarding.

***

DOP&T vide their O.M. No.12/02/2017- Estt(Pay-I), dated 5th August, 2020 have issued certain guidelines on Protection of pay to the Central Government Servant consequent to appointment to a new post in different service or cadre in Central Government, through direct recruitment where either higher duties and responsibilities are involved or not, as the case may be, under FR 22-B(1) (Rule 1315 of IREC Vol.II), in the 7th CPC Scenario. A copy of the same is sent herewith for information/guidance. These orders will apply mutatis-mutandis to Railway employees also.

2. This order takes effect from 01.01.2016.

Copy of Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions [DOP&PT]’s O.M. No.12/02/2017- Estt(Pay-I), dated 5th August, 2020

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OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Protection of pay to the Central Government Servant consequent to appointment to a new post in different service or cadre in Central Government, through direct recruitment where either higher duties and responsibilities are involved or not, as the case may be, under FR 22-B(1), in the 7th CPC scenario- regarding.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that consequent to various references received from Ministries/Departments on protection of pay under FR 22-B(1), a need has been felt to issue guidelines on the manner of fixation of pay in respect of the Central Government Servant who after technical resignation, is appointed to new post in the different service or cadre in Central Government through direct recruitment where either higher responsibilities are involved or not, as the case may be, in 7th Central Pay Commission scenario.

2. Provisions of FR 22-B(1) inter-alia provide as under:-

“F.R. 22-B(1) Notwithstanding anything contained in these Rules, the following provisions shall govern the pay of a Government servant who is appointed as a probationer in another service or cadre, and subsequently confirmed in that service or cadre-

(a) During the period of probation, he shall draw pay at the minimum of the time scale or at the probationary stages of the time scale of the service or post, as the case may be:

Provided that if the presumptive pay of the permanent post on which he holds a lien or would hold a lien had his lien not been suspended, should at any time be greater than the pay fixed under the clause, he shall draw the presumptive pay of the permanent post;

(b) On confirmation in the service or post after the expiry of the period of probation, the pay of the Government servant shall be fixed in the time-scale of the service or post in accordance with the provisions of Rule22 or Rule 22-C, as the case may be………”

3. Consequent upon the implementation of 7th CPC Report and CCS (RP) Rules, 2016 the President is pleased to allow protection of pay in the light of the provisions laid down under FR 22-B(1) to Central Government employee who is appointed as probationer in another service or cadre either carrying higher responsibilities or not, as the case may be and subsequently confirmed in that service or cadre, in the manner as illustrated below: (A) MANNER OF FIXATION OF PAY OF GOVERNMENT SERVANT UNDER FR 22-B CONSEQUENT TO HIS APPOINTMENT IN LOWER POST THROUGH DIRECT

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RECRUITMENT, WHERE HIGHER DUTIES AND RSPONSIBILITIES ARE NOT INVOLVED A Central Government Employee on his appointment to a post in lower Level in different service or cadre in Central Government which does not carry duties and responsibilities of greater importance than those attached to the post held earlier by him on regular basis before such appointment and having a provision of probation period in new post, may during probation draw the presumptive pay of the post held earlier by him on regular basis, if it is higher than the minimum of the Time Scale of the new post. He would also draw annual increments on such presumptive pay. However, it is to be ensured that during probation, presumptive pay should always be greater than pay of the new post after drawl of increments(s). Subsequently, on successful completion of his probation, his pay will be fixed under FR 22 (I)(a)(2). Protection of Pay in the above manner should not, at any of these stages, exceed the maximum of the Level of the new post in Pay Matrix. Illustration An officer was drawing pay of Rs.78,500 in Cell 6 in Level 11 (with DNI 01.07.2018) before his appointment to a post in Level 10 on 01.04.2018 which does not carry duties and responsibilities of greater importance than those attached to the post held earlier by him before such appointment. There is a provision of 2 years probation period in new post. Since the first Cell Value in Level 10 (Rs.56,100) is less than the Last Basic Pay i.e. Rs. 78,500/- in Level 11. Hence during probation, he will draw the presumptive pay i.e. Rs. 78,500/- in Level 11 and would also draw annual increments according to the pay drawn in his previous post in Level 11. On 01.04.2018- Rs. 78,500 (Level 11) On 01.07.2018- Rs. 80,900 (Level 11) On 01.07.2019- Rs. 83,300 (Level 11) On successful completion of his probation period and on confirmation w.e.f. 01.04.2020, the pay of the officer would be fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(2). Since no such Cell of Rs. 83,300/- is available in Level 10, his pay would be fixed at next higher cell i.e. Cell 15 in Level 10 at Rs. 84,900 with next date of increment 01.01.2021. (B) MANNER OF FIXATION OF PAY OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE UNDER FR 22-B(1) CONSEQUENT TO HIS APPOINTMENT TO A POST IN HIGHER LEVEL THROUGH DIRECT RECRUITMENT, WHERE HIGHER DUTIES AND RSPONSIBILITIES ARE INVOLVED A Central Government Employee on his appointment to a post in higher level in different service or cadre in Central Government carrying duties and responsibilities of

145

greater importance than those attached to the post held earlier by him on regular basis before such appointment and having a provision of probation period in new post, may during probation draw the presumptive pay of the post held earlier by him on regular basis if it is higher than the minimum of the Time Scale of the new post. He would also draw annual increments on such presumptive pay. However, it is to be ensured that during probation presumptive pay should always be greater than the pay of the new post after drawl of increments(s). Subsequently, on successful completion of his probation, his pay will be fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(1). Protection of Pay in the above manner should not, at any of these stages, exceed the maximum of the Level of the new post in Pay Matrix. Illustration An officer was drawing pay of Rs.58,600 in Cell 10 in Level 7 before his appointment on 01.04.2018 in Level 10 (with DNI 01.07.2018) which carries duties and responsibilities of greater importance than those attached to the post held earlier by him on regular basis before such appointment. There is a provision of 2 years probation period in new post. Since the first Cell Value in Level 10 (Rs.56,100) is less than the Last Basic Pay drawn in Cell 10 of Level 7 i.e. Rs. 56,100/- hence during probation, he will draw the presumptive pay of the post held earlier by him on regular basis and would also draw annual increments in Level 7 of his previous post as shown below:- On 01.04.2018- Rs. 56,100 (Level 7) On 01.07.2018- Rs. 60,400 (Level 7) On 01.07.2019- Rs. 62,200 (Level 7) On successful completion of his probation period and on confirmation w.e.f. 01.04.2020, the pay of the officer would be fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(2) read with Rule 13 of CCS (RP) Rules, 2016. Accordingly, an increment will be added in his pay in Level 7 and his pay will reach at Rs.64,100/-. Since there is no cell value equal to Rs.64,100/- available in Level 10, his pay would be fixed in Level 11 in Cell 6 at Rs. 65,000/- with next date of increment 01.01.2021. (C) MANNER OF FIXATION OF PAY OF CENTRAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE UNDER FR 22-B(1) CONSEQUENT TO HIS APPOINTMENT TO A POST IN EQUIVALENT LEVEL POST THROUGH DIRECT RECRUITMENT, WHERE HIGHER DUTIES AND RSPONSIBILITIES ARE NOT INVOLVED A Central Government Employee on his appointment to a post in higher level in equivalent Level in different service or cadre in Central Government through direct recruitment where higher duties and responsibilities are not involved and having a provision of probation period in new post, may during probation draw the presumptive

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pay of the post held earlier by him on regular basis. He would also get his increments on such presumptive pay. On successful completion of his probation, his pay will be fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(1). However, Protection of Pay in the above manner should not, at any of these stages, exceed the maximum of the Level of the new post in Pay Matrix. Illustration An officer was drawing pay of Rs.58,600 in Cell 10 in Level 7 before his appointment on 01.04.2018 in the same Level 7 (with DNI 01.07.2018). There is a provision of 2 years probation period in new post. Since the first Cell Value in Level 7 (Rs.44,900) is less than the Last Basic Pay i.e. Rs. 58,600/- in Level 7 drawn by Government Servant, hence during probation, he will draw the presumptive pay and also get his increments in the same Level of his previous post as shown below :- On 01.04.2018- Rs. 58,600 (Level 7) On 01.07.2018- Rs. 60,400 (Level 7) On 01.07.2019- Rs. 62,200 (Level 7) On successful completion of his probation period and on confirmation w.e.f. 01.04.2020, the pay of the officer would be fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(2). Since no increment would be admissible under FR 22(I)(a)(2), there will be no change in his pay on the date of confirmation i.e. 01.04.2020. Accordingly, his pay in Level 7 on 01.04.2020 would be Rs. 62,200 (Level7) with next date of increment on 01.07.2020, as Level remains same. 4. The above mentioned pay protection under FR 22-B(1) will be available to the Government servant if he holds a lien on his previous permanent post. 5. No stepping up of pay of senior Government servant shall be allowed on the

basis of the pay protection granted under FR 22-B(1) to junior Government servants of that particular service/cadre.


In their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued after consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution.

******


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Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/F(E)II/3/2 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.70/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 08.01.92, 16.07.92, 12.03.99, 12.02.01, 11.09.15 and 02.11.2017 quoted therein were circulated as Serial Circular Nos. 23/92, 104/92, 91/99, 48/2001 and 198/2017- respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/F(E)II/3/2 dated 25.08.2020 [RBE No.70/2020]

Sub: Protection of pay in respect of candidates from PSUs, Universities, Autonomous bodies, etc. on their appointment to Central Government posts on Direct Recruitment basis – reg.

***

Reference is invited to Board’s circulars No.F(E)II/91/PA/1/1 dated 08.01.1992, 16.07.1992, 12.03.1999, 12.02.2001 and No.2017/F(E)II/3/1 dated 11.09.2015 & 02.11.2017 on the above subject. DoP&T vide their O.M. No.5/2/2012-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 13.08.2020 have issued clarification regarding Guidelines for fixation of pay of candidates working in Public Sector Undertakings etc., recommended for appointment by the Commission by the method of recruitment by selection through interview or open competitive exam or combination of both. A copy of which is forwarded for information and guidance. Instructions contained therein would be applicable mutatis mutandis to Railway Employees also.


Copy of Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions [DOP&PT]’s O.M. No. No.5/2/2012-Estt.(Pay-I)(Vol.II), dated 13th August, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Protection of pay in respect of candidates from PSUs, Universities, Autonomous bodies, etc. on their appointment to Central Government posts on Direct Recruitment basis – reg.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s OM No.12/1/88-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 07.08.1989, OM No. 12/1/88-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 28.02.1992, OM No. 12/1/88-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 08.06.1993, OM No.12/1/96-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 10.07.1998, OM No. 12/3/2009-Pay-I dated 30.03.2010 and OM No. 12/03/2017-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 28.07.2017 on the subject cited above, whereby guidelines for fixation of pay of candidates working in Public Sector Undertakings etc. including Central Public Undertakings, State Government Undertakings, Universities, Semi- Government Institutions, Autonomous Bodies and Nationalised Banks including State Bank of India and Reserve Bank of India, on their appointment as Direct Recruits, on selection, through a properly constituted agency including Departmental authorities were issued.

2. On receipt of certain cases seeking clarification as to the exact scope of this Department’s OM dated 07.08.1989 and conditions under which the benefit under that OM is admissible, this Department vide OM No 12/1/96-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 10.07.1998

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clarified that the pay protection under the above orders is available only if, the selection is through interview and not through an open competitive examination.

3. However, in the light of various court judgements and references received from various quarters, the above mentioned policy of pay fixation of the candidates coming from field sources (PSUs, Universities etc) referred to in Para 1, has been reviewed.

4. The President is pleased to decide that notwithstanding the mode of selection, henceforth, the benefit of pay protection will be available to Direct Recruits appointed in Central Government to those posts for which the relevant Recruitment Rules prescribe a requirement of minimum number of years of experience in a specified area from the field sources (autonomous bodies, PSUs etc.) for appointment under the method of direct recruitment. The benefit will be allowed irrespective of whether the post is filled by the recruiting agency on the basis of interview or open competitive exam or combination of both.

5. This OM will be effective from the date of its issuance.

6. In their application to the employees of Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued after consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, as mandated under Article 148(5) of the Constitution.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.2020-B-308 dated 04.08.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020-B-308 dated 04.08.2020

Sub: Rate of Interest to be charged on advance for purchase of Computer during 2020-21.

***

A copy of Ministry of Finance, Department of Economic Affairs OM F.No.5(3)-B(PD)/2019 dated 16th March, 2020 regarding rate of interest to be charged on advances sanctioned during the year 2020-21, for purchase of Computer is enclosed.

2. The instructions contained therein will apply mutatis-mutandis to Railway employees.

Copy of Ministry of Finance, Department of Economic Affairs OM F.No.5(3)-B(PD)/2019 dated 16th March, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Advances to Government Servants- Rate of interest for purchase of Computer during 2020-21.

***

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The undersigned is directed to state that the rate of interest for advance sanctioned to the Government servants for purchase of Computer during 2020-21 i.e., from 1st April, 2020 to 31st March 2021 is as under:

(i) Advance for purchase of Computer Rate of interest per annum 9.8%

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-1/3 dated 31.08.2020 [RBE No.74/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 10.09.2018 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.166/2018

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-1/3 dated 31.08.2020 [RBE No.74/2020]

Sub: Modification in the ‘All India Leave Travel Concession’ (AILTC) Scheme to facilitate unblocking of Privilege Pass Account in exceptional circumstances. Ref: Board’s letter No.E(W)2017/PS5-1/3 dated 10.09.2018.

***

The Scheme of AILTC, as notified vide Board’s above referred letter, does not contain any provision for unblocking/reopening of Privilege Pass Account (PPA), after issuance of Privilege Pass Surrender Certificate (PPSC)/Confirmation Note (CN). Consequent to the national lockdown to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic and suspension of tourism activities, the Railway Servants who have surrendered their Privilege Passes and obtained PPSC could not avail AILTC. Requests are being received from the affected employees for cancellation of their PPSCs and to reopen their PPA.

2. In order to mitigate the difficulties being faced in this regard by the Railway Servants, it has been decided with the approval of the Competent Authority to modify the restrictive provision contained in Para 4 (viii) of Board’s letter cited under reference, by substituting the same as follow:-

“4(viii) Request for cancellation of PPSC and re-opening of PPA will be entertained only in exceptional cases. In such case, the applicant will submit an application to PIA, explaining the reasons for non-availing of AILTC with supporting documents, if any. The application must accompany the original PPSC and a Certificate to the effect that “the applicant has not drawn any LTC Advance or returned the advance drawn in full in accordance with the Rules regarding grant of LTC advance and adjustment thereof, as contained in CCS (LTC) Rules, 1988” from the Section handling LTC Claims. A decision on the request will be taken on the grounds whether the circumstances stated by the applicant are beyond his/her control or otherwise and by an officer of SAG level in the Personnel Department overseeing the Pass Section as Competent Authority. If

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approved by the Competent Authority, the PPSC as well as CN (wherever applicable), may be treated as ‘cancelled’ and PPA unblocked/reopened for the respective year. In such cases where both husband and wife are Railway Servants and their PIAs are different, decision taken will also be intimated to PIA who has issued “Confirmation Note” to facilitate unblocking of PPA of the spouse. Request for issue of a fresh PPSC/CN will not be entertained in the same calendar year.”

3. Zonal Railways and PUs may note the above procedure and dispose of the requests, if any, accordingly.


******

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 84/2020 No. P[R]436/IREC /IV Date: 07.09.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2019/FU-1/12 dated 05.08.2020 [RBE No.57/2020, ACS No.142] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Advance Correction Slip No.144 mentioned in the above letter may be read as Advance Correction Slip No.142.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2019/FU-1/12 dated 05.08.2020 [RBE No.57/2020, ACS No.142]

Sub: Amendment of provisions relating to Railway Staff Benefit Fund- Chapter 8 of Indian Railway Establishment Code Volume – I, 1985 Edition (Second Reprint Edition- 2003)

*** In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution, the President is pleased to direct that Rule 807 and 808 of the Indian Railway Establishment Code, Volume I, 1985 Edition be amended as per enclosed Advanced Correction slip No.144. This amendment is effective from the date of instructions issued vide letter No.E(W)2019/FU-1/12 dated 05.08.2020.

INDIAN RAILWAYS ESTABLISHMENT CODE VOLUME-I, 1985 EDITION (Second Reprint Edition – 2003)

CHAPTER – 8 Railway Staff Benefit Fund

Advance Correction Slip No.142 Following clause may be added to Rule 807 and Rule 808: Following Ministry’s decision 3:-

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There is no objection to substitute taking the place of nominated member in Committee meetings/camps of SBF provided the reasons thereof and alternative arrangement is duly informed in advance by the concerned Association i.e. AISCSTREA & AIOBCREA.

(Authority: Board’s letter No.E(W)2019/FU-1/12 dated 05.08.2020 RBE No.57/2020)

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2014/TR/17 dated 08.09.2020 [RBE No.79/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 05.10.2017 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.179/2017

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I-2014/TR/17 dated 08.09.2020 [RBE No.79/2020]

Sub: Filling up of posts in ongoing electrification projects undertaken by CORE.

*** Attention is invited to Board’s letter of even number dated 05.10.2017, wherein it was clearly stated that filling up of vacancies of CORE projects shall primarily be the responsibility of the Zonal Railway in whose territorial jurisdiction the electrification project is being undertaken. The concerned General Managers and Divisional Railway Managers should tie up with the concerned Heads of the Re project to ensure posting of sufficient number of staff in a manner similar to that for construction projects. It was also stipulated therein that the Zonal Railway concerned need not ask for option or willingness from any staff and arrange to post the technical/non-technical staff working at any level after assessing suitability and requirement of the project. 2. The General Manager/CORE, in the MCDO upto June, 2020, has pointed out that there is an acute shortage of supervisors in the projects; which is adversely affecting the progress of electrification works. He has requested that Zonal Railways may be impressed upon to spare the Non-Gazetted Supervisors. 3. The matter has accordingly been considered. It is observed that the difficulty of shortage of staff being faced by CORE may cause delay in the execution of the projects handled by them, impacting the unit cost of operations in Indian Railways adversely. 4. The instructions contained in Board’s letter dated 05.10.2017 ibid are accordingly reiterated for strict compliance. Necessary action may be taken to spare the Non-Gazetted Supervisors for the R.E. Projects at the earliest.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 86/2020 No. P[R]579/IX Date: 11.09.2020

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Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)I-2019/RT-21 dated 07.09.2020 [RBE No.78/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 08.08.2019 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.111/2019

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)I-2019/RT-21 dated 07.09.2020 [RBE No.78/2020]

Sub: Periodic Review of Railway employees for strengthening of administration under Fundamental Rule FR 56(j) (1) {Rule 1802(a)/1803(a)/1804(a) of IREC Vol.II, 1987 Edition} Ref: 1) DoP&T’s OM No.25013/03/2019-Estt.A-IV dt 28/8/20 (copy enclosed)

2) Board’s letter of even No. dated 08.08.2019.

***

On the issue of undertaking periodic review of performance of Government servants with a view to ascertain whether a government servant should be retained in service or retired from service prematurely, in public interest as per Fundamental provisions, instructions have been issued from time to time by DoP&T, the nodal Deptt. On the subject. Instructions issued by DoP&T on the subject have been adopted by the Ministry of Railways in respect of railway employees.

DoP&T’s recent OM dt 28/08/20 reviews, consolidates and reiterates the guidelines issued so far on periodic review of Central Government employees. These provisions shall apply mutatis mutandis in respect of railway employees. The corresponding provisions for Railway employees are contained in Rules 1802(a)/1803(a)/1804(a) – R.II, 1987 read with Rule 66(b) of RSPR, 1993.

Copy of Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions [DOP&PT]’s OM. No.25013/03/2019-Estt.A-IV dt 28/8/20

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Periodic Review of Central Government employees for strengthening of administration under Fundamental Rule FR 56(j) (1) Rule 48 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

***

Instructions have been issued from time to time for undertaking periodic review of performance of Government servants with a view to ascertain whether the Government servant should be retained in service or retired from service prematurely, in public interest, as per Fundamental provisions/Rule referred in the subject cited above. In order to bring in better clarity to the existing instructions and enable uniform implementation, an effort has been made to review, consolidated and reiterate the guidelines so far issued on the subject at one place.

2. The objective of Fundamental Rule (FR 56(j) (1) Rule 48 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, is to strength the administrative machinery by developing responsible and

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efficiency, economy and speed in the disposal of Government functions. It is clarified that premature retirement of Government servants under these rules is not a penalty. It is distinct from ‘Compulsory Retirement ‘, which is one of prescribed penalties under CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965.

3. Provisions relating to pre-mature retirement in the Fundamental Rules and CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972

3.1 The Appropriate Authority has the absolute right to retire a Government servant under FR 56(j), FR 56(I) or Rule 48(1) (b) of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 as the case may be, if it is necessary to do so in public interest.

3.2 FR 56(j):- The Appropriate Authority shall, if it is of the option that it is in the public interest so to do, have the absolute right to retire any Government servant by giving him notice of not less than three months in writing or three months pay and allowances in lieu of such notice:-

(i) if he is, Group ‘A’ or Group ‘B’ service or post in a substantive, quasi-permanent or temporary capacity and had entered Government service before attaining the age of 35 years;

(ii) In any other case after he has attained the age of 55 years.

3.3. FR 56(i):- Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (j) the Appropriate Authority shall, if it is of the option that it is in the public interest to do so, have the absolute right to retire a Government servant in Group C service or post who is not governed by any pension rules, after he has completed thirty years, service by giving him notice of not less than three months in writing or three months’ pay and allowances in lieu of such notice.

3.4 Rule 48 (1) (b) of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 :- At any time after a Government servant has completed thirty (30) years’ qualifying service, he may be required by the Appointing Authority to retire in the public interest and in the case of such retirement, the Government servant shall be entitled to a retiring pension, provided that the Appointing Authority may also give a notice in writing to a Government servant at least three months before the date on which he is required to retire in the public interest or three months’ pay and allowances in lieu of such notice.

4. Time Schedule to be followed:- The time schedule given in the following table, shall be followed for undertaking the exercise of review of performance of Government servants:-

Quarter in which review is to be made

Cases of Government servants, in the quarter indicated below to be reviewed

January to March July to September of the same year April to June October to December of the same year July to September January to March of the next year

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October to December April to June of the next year

5. Maintenance of Register:- A register of the Government servants who are due to attain the age of 50/55 years or to complete 30 years of service, has to be maintained. The register should be scrutinized at the beginning of every quarter by a senior officer in the Ministry / Department/ Cadre and review be undertaken according to the above schedule so as to ensure timely completion of the review for retention/pre-mature retirement of the Government servants.

6. Government may, at any time after a Government servant has attained the age 50/55 years or completed 30 years of service, as the case may be, retire him pre-maturely in public interest. However, non-adherence to the time-lines as indicated in para 4 above due to certain administrative exigencies shall not take away the powers of Appropriate Authority to pre-maturely retire a Government servant under FR 56(j), 56(l) and Rule 48 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. Therefore, review of a Government servant for the purposes of these cases covered by FR 56(j) or after he has completed 30 years of qualifying service under FR 56(l) /Rule 48 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

7. There is also no bar on the Government to review any such case again where it was decided earlier to retain the officer, but the Appropriate/Appointing Authority is of the opinion that it is expedient to undertake the review again on account of changed circumstances, in public interest. In such cases, the Appropriate Authority is expected to demonstrate visible meticulousness as such Government servants have been found effective on earlier occasion for retention in service.

8. Composition of Review and Representation Committee :-

8.1 The concerned Secretary of the Cadre Controlling Authority (CCA) will constitute Review Committees of two members at appropriate level as under:-

(i) In case of officers holding Group A posts:-

Review Committee shall be headed by the Secretary of the concerned CCA. Where there are Boards viz CBDT, CBEC, Railway Board, Postal Board, Telecom Commission etc, the Review Committee shall be headed by the Chairman of such Board.

(i) In case of Group B (Gazetted) officers :- (ii) In the case of Non-Gazetted employees :-

(a)An officer of the level of Joint Secretary will head the Committee. However, in case the Appointing Authority is lower in rank than a Joint Secretary, then an officer of the level of Director/Deputy Secretary will be Review Committee.

(b) In the case of Non-Gazetted employees in other than centralised cadres, Head of Department/Head of the Organisation shall decide the composition of the Review Committee.

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Chief Vigilance Officer, in case of Gazetted officers, or his representative in case of non-Gazetted officers, will be associated in case of record reflecting adversely on the integrity of any employee.

8.2 The composition of Representation Committee for all nominated by the Cabinet Secretary;

(a) A Secretary to the Government of India to be nominated by the Cabinet

Secretary; (b) Additional Secretary/ Joint Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat; and (c) One member nominated by the CCA.

9. Constitution of Internal Committee:- In addition to the above, Secretary of the CCA is also empowered to constitute an Internal Committee comprising of such officer(s) as deemed fit to assist the Review Committee. These Committee will ensure that the service record of the Government servants being reviewed, along with a summary, bringing out all relevant information, is submitted to the Cadre Authorities at least three months prior to the due date of review.

10. Board Criteria to be followed by the Review Committee :- The board criteria to be followed by the Review Committee while making the recommendations are as follows:-

(i) Government servants whose integrity is doubtful, shall be retired.

(ii) Government servants found to be ineffective shall also be retired. The basic consideration in identifying such Government servants should be their fitness/competence to continue in the post held.

(iii) No Government servant should ordinarily be retired on ground of ineffectiveness, if, in any event, he would be retiring on superannuation within a period of one year from the date of consideration of his case. However, in a case where there is a sudden and steep fall in the competence, efficiency or effectiveness of a Government servant, it would be open to review such a case also for premature retirement. The said instruction of not retiring the Government servant within one year on the ground of ineffectiveness except in case of sudden and steep fall in his performance is relevant only when he is proposed to be retired on the ground of ineffectiveness, but not on the ground of doubtful integrity.

(iv) No Government servant should ordinarily be retired on ground of ineffectiveness, if his service during the preceding 5 years or where he has been promoted to a higher post during that 5 year period, his service in the highest post, has been found satisfactory. There is no such stipulation, however, where the Government servant is to be retired on grounds of doubtful integrity. In case of those Government servants who have been promoted during the last 5 years, the previous entries in the ACRs may be

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taken into account if he was promoted on the basis of seniority cum fitness, and not on the basis of merit.

(v) The entire service record of a Government servant should be considered at the time of review. The expression ‘service record’ refers to all relevant records and therefore, the review should not be confined to the consideration of the ACR/APAR dossier. The personal file of the Government servant may contain valuable material. Similarly, his work and performance could also be assessed by looking into files dealt with by him or in any papers or reports prepared and submitted by him. It would be useful if the Ministry/ Department/Cadre puts together all the data available about the Government servant and prepares a comprehensive brief for consideration by the Review Committee. Even uncommunicated remarks in the ACRs/APARs may be taken into consideration.

11. Important judgement of Supreme Court

11.1 In the judgement in the case of UOl & Col. J.N.Sinha [1571 SCR (1) 791], the Hon’ble Supreme Court had not only upheld the validity of FR 56(j), but also held that no show-cause notice needs to be issued to any Government servant before a notice of retirement is issued to him under the aforesaid provisions. The Apex Court held that-

“Now coming to the express words of Fundamental Rule 56(j), it says that the appropriate authority has the absolute right to retire a government servant if it is of the opinion that it is in the public interest to do so. The right conferred on the appropriate authority is an absolute one. That power can be exercised subject to the conditions mentioned in the rule.’ One which is that the concerned authority must be of the opinion that it is in public interest to do so. If that authority bona fide forms that opinion, the correctness of that opinion cannot be challenged before courts. It is open to an aggrieved party to contend that the requisite opinion has not been formed or the decision is based on collateral grounds or that it is an arbitrary decision.”

11.2 In the case of State of Gujrat vs Umedbhai M.Patel, 2001 (3) SCC 314, Hon’ble Court held that-

“The law relating to compulsory retirement has now crystalized into definite principles, which could be broadly summarized thus:

(i) Whenever the services of a public servant are no longer useful to the general administration, the officer can be compulsorily retired for the sake of public interest.

(ii) Ordinarily, the order of compulsory retirement is not to be treated as a punishment coming under Article 311 of the Constitution.

(iii) For better administration, it is necessary to chop off dead wood, but the order of compulsory retirement can be passed after having due regard to the entire service record of the officer.

(iv) Any adverse entries made in the confidential record shall be taken note of and be give due weightage in passing such order.

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(v) Even uncommunicated entries in the confidential record can also be taken into consideration.

(vi) The order of compulsory retirement shall not be passed as a short cut to avoid Department enquiry when such course is more desirable.

(vii) If the officer was given a promotion despite adverse entries made in the confidential record, that is a fact in favour of the officer.

(viii) Compulsory retirement shall not be imposed as a punitive measure.”

12. The observations of the Supreme Court with regard to integrity and conduct unbecoming of a Government servant.

12.1 As far as integrity is concerned, the following observations of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the case of S Ramchandra Raju vs State of Orrisa {[1994) 3 SCC 424}, while upholding compulsory retirement in the case, may be kept in view:

“The officer would live by reputation built around him. In an appropriate case, there may not be sufficient evidence to take punitive disciplinary action of removal from service. But his conduct and reputation is such that his continuance in service would be a menace to public service and injurious to public interest. The entire service record or character rolls or confidential reports maintained would furnish the backdrop material for consideration by the Government or the Review Committee or the appropriate authority. On consideration of the totality of the facts and circumstances alone; the Government should form the opinion that the Government officer needs to be compulsorily retired from service. Therefore, the entire record more particularly, the latest, would form the foundation for the opinion and furnish the base to exercise the power under the relevant rule to compulsorily retire a Government officer.”

12.2 While considering the aspect of integrity of an employee, all material on record, including the actions or decisions taken by the employee which do not appear to be above board, complaints received against him, or suspicious property transactions, for which there may not be sufficient evidence to initiate departmental proceedings, may also be taken into account. The judgement of the Apex Court in the case of K. Kandaswamy vs union of India & Anr, 1996 AIR 277, 1995 SCC (6) 162 is relevant here. In this case, the apex court upheld the decision of the Government and held that:-

“The rights – constitutional or statutory – carry with them corollary duty to maintain efficiency, integrity and dedication to public service. Unfortunately, the latter is being overlooked and neglected and the former unduly gets emphasised. The appropriate Government or the authority would, therefore, need to consider the totality of the facts and circumstances appropriate in each case and would form the opinion whether compulsory retirement of a Government employee would be in the public interest. The opinion must be based on the material on record; otherwise it would amount to arbitrary or colourable exercise of power.”

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12.3 Similarly, reports of conduct unbecoming of a Government servant may also form basis for compulsory retirement. As per the judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court in State of U.P. and Others vs Vijay Kumar Jain, Appeal (civil) 2083 of 2002;

“If conduct of a government employee becomes unbecoming to the public interest or obsolute right to compulsorily retire such an employee in public interest.”

13. Approval of Appropriate /Appointing Authority :- The recommendations of Review Committee will be put up for consideration and approval Appropriate /Appointing Authority in those cases, where it has been recommended to retire the Government servant prematurely.

14. Representation against Premature Retirement :- After issue of the orders of premature retirement, the concerned Government servant may put up representation for orders otherwise, within three weeks from the date of service of such notice/ order and the matter may be placed before Representation Committee along with fresh input, if any. The examination of the representation should be completed by the Cadre Authorities within two weeks from the date of receipt of representation. The Representation Committee considering the representation shall make its recommendations within two weeks from the date of receipt of the reference from the Cadre Authorities concerned and the Appropriate /Appointing Authority should pass its orders within two weeks from the date if receipt of the recommendations of Representation Committee.

15. In so far as the provisions which are not covered in this OM, the provisions in the earlier OMs shall continue to be applicable.

16. All Ministries/Departments are requested to follow the contents of this OM strictly and to ensure its wide circulation amongst all concerned.

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Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2017/I/6/7 dated 01.09.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 18.02.2020 granting provisional fixation benefit under Rule 13 of RSRP (Rules), 2016 for promotion from Chief Matron to ANO, Sr.Technician to JE, LP(Goods) to LP(Pass) to LP(Mail/Express) and Passenger Guard to Mail/Express Guard has now attained finality as concurred by Finance Directorate and the Competent authority vide Board’s letter dated 01.09.2020, supra. Necessary action may be taken accordingly.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2017/I/6/7 dated 01.09.2020

Sub: Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 – Clarification regarding fixation of pay under Rule 13 of RSRP on promotion in various situations where feeder and promotional categories lie in the same level in the Pay

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Matrix. Ref: Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2016/I/6/7 dated 18.02.2020 (RBE No.23/2020)

***

Please refer to Board’s letter mentioned above wherein it was advised that categories mentioned in Board’s letter No.PC-VI/2011/IC/I dated 12.09.2013 (RBE No.95/2013) may continue to be granted the benefit under Rule-13 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 on provisional basis subject to concurrence of Ministry of Finance.

2. Now, Ministry of Finance vide their OM No.02-01/2018-E.III.A dated 17.06.2020 after examining the case in consultation with Department of Personnel and Training, has agreed to allow fixation of pay under Rule-13 of CCS(RP) Rules, 2016 [RS(RP) Rules, 2016 in Ministry of Railways] in case of functional promotion in identical level of the Pay Matrix in situations where it was not feasible to merge the feeder and the promotional posts and such posts continued to be operated as separate posts, provided the Ministry of Railways ensures that such benefit was being granted to such posts prior to 01.01.2016.

3. Accordingly, the instructions issued vide above referred letter dated 18.02.2020 ‘on provisional basis’ have now attained finality. Necessary action may be taken accordingly.

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

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Copy of Board’s letter No.PV-VII/2017/RSRP/1(pt.) dated 04.09.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 10.07.2019 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.100/2019

Copy of Board’s letter No.PV-VII/2017/RSRP/1(pt.) dated 04.09.2020

Sub: FAQ on exercise of option to come over to 7th CPC under Rule 5 & 6 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016- reg.

***

Clarification on exercise of option to come over to revised pay structure has been given to all Railways vide Board’s letter Nos. PC-VII/2018/RSRP/1 dated 10.07.2019 & dated 23.07.2019 and specific policy clarification in respect of officials placed in a higher grade pay or scale between 1st day of January, 2016 and 30.06.2016 on account of promotion or upgradation has also been given to WCR and CR vide letter No. PC-VII/2017/RSRP/1(pt.) dated 25.11.2019. subsequent to issue of these letters, doubts

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have been raised particularly by the officials of WCR and CR claiming that illustration enclosed with Board’s letter dated 10.07.2019 does not cover the case when employee is promoted/upgraded between 01.01.2016 and 30.06.2016 and elect to 7th Pay Commission with effect from Date of Next Increment (01.07.2016) as per Rule 5 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 and as per the format of option specified in the Pay Commission Report.

2. With respect to above, it is advised that clarification as mentioned above are explicit, self-explanatory and strictly in consonance with RS(RP) Rule, 2016 and as per clarification issued by Ministry of Finance to various Ministries, nevertheless, an FAQ on exercise of option for switching over to revised pay structure is enclosed as Annexure-I.

3. If any option has been allowed contrary to above guidelines the same shall be rectified and recoveries if any may also be made.

4. This issues with the concurrence of Associate Finance (Railway Board) and approval of Competent Authority.

Annexure-I

FAQ: Exercise of option to switch over to 7th CPC pay structure under Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016.

S. No

FAQ Answer Reason

1. A Railway Servant has been placed in a higher Grade Pay or Scale between 1st day of January, 2016 and 30.06.2016 on account of promotion or upgradation. Can he elect to switch over to 7th CPC pay structure from date of next increment (in lower grade) i.e. 01.07.2016 after availing benefit annual increment in lower grade (in pre-revised pay structure) and promotional pay fixation in pre-revised pay structure.

No Option to switch over to the revised pay structure either on 01.01.2016 or from a later date than 01.01.2016 i.e. on the date of promotion or the date of next increment, is applicable under Rule 5 in case of post held on 01.01.2016. Thus if the date of next increment on 01.07.2016 falls after the date of promotion, then the date of next increment for the post held on 01.01.2016 has no relevance for option, as this post is no longer held on 01.07.2016 to switch over to the revised pay structure. Hence, illustration 1(a) annexed with Board’s letter no. PC-VII/2018/RSRP/1 dated 10.07.2019 is in consonance with RS(RP) Rules, 2016.

2. A Railway Servant has been placed in a higher Grade Pay or

No Option for fixation of pay in the revised pay structure after

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Scale on a date after notification of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 (i.e 28.07.2016) on account of promotion or upgradation. Can he elect to switch over to 7th CPC pay structure from date of promotion/upgradation materialized after the date of notification of RS(RP) Rules, 2016

the date of notification of RS(RP) Rules, 2016. Cannot be exercised as Rule 5 of the said Rules provides option only for promotion taking place up to 28.07.2016 (date of notification of the said Rules)

3. A Railway Servant has been placed in a higher Grade Pay or Scale between 01.01.2016 and date notification of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 on account of promotion or upgradation. Can he opt for pay fixation from date of such promotion/ upgradation.

Yes Rule 5 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 stipulates that in cases where a Railway servant has been placed in a higher Grade Pay or Scale between 1st day of January, 2016 and the date of notification of these Rules on account of promotion or upgradation, the Railway servant may elect to switch over to the revised pay structure from the date of such promotion or upgradation, as the case may be. Date of Next Increment in such cases will be governed under RS(RP) Rules, 2016. Pivotal aspects of this Rule are given in Explanation -I & Explanation -II which are as under: Explanation 1- The option to retain the existing pay structure under the provisos to this rule shall be admissible only in respect of one existing Pay Band and Grade Pay or scale. Explanation 2- The aforesaid option shall not be admissible to any person appointed to a post for the first time in Railway Service or by transfer from another post on or after the 1st day of January, 2016, and he shall be allowed pay only in the revised pay structure. Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2018/RSRP/1 dated

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10.07.2019 which contains guidelines on opportunity for revision of option to come over to revised pay structure and pay fixation illustration in various circumstance is enclosed as Annexure-II.

# Note: The time period for exercise of option must strictly be in terms of Rule 6 of RS(RP) Rules, 2016 and further guidelines issued in this regard.

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PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 89/2020 No. P[R]563/XIII Date: 22.09.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2019/E(Sports)4(3)/8/Policy dated 07.09.2020 [RBE No.76/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 31.12.2010 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.09/2011.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2019/E(Sports)4(3)/8/Policy dated 07.09.2020 [RBE No.76/2020; Clarification/ Corrigendum No.112]

Sub: Age Group of Junior National Bridge Championship for the purpose of recruitment of sportspersons against Sports Quota. Ref: Railway Board’s policy letter No.2010/E(Sports)/4(1)/1(Policy) dated 31.12.2010 (RBE No. 189B/2010).

***

Please connect Annexure-I of Board’s policy letter referred to above containing a list of Junior National Championship recognized by RSRP for the purpose of recruitment of sportspersons on Indian Railways against sports quota.

2. In this connection Bridge Federation of India has clarified that the Jr. National Championship in Bridge takes place in age group of 16 to 25 years in Open category and is defined as U-26, since as per World Bridge Federation, the category of U-26 participation includes those players who are of 25 years or below in the year preceding to the Championship year.

3. In order to bring the recruitment age defined at S. No.10 of Annexure-I of Board’s instruction dated 31.12.2010 in line with the clarification given by the National Sports Federation, the same may be read as under:-

Existing

Revised

Men: Under 25 Women: Under 25

Open Category: Under 26

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*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2009/QR1-2 dated 03.09.2020 [RBE No.75/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 14.02.2020 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.28/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2009/QR1-2 dated 03.09.2020 [RBE No.75/2020]

Sub: Quarter retention allowed to Zonal Railways such as WCR, ECoR, SWR, NER etc. Ref: Board’s letter No.E(G)2009 QR 1-2 dated 14.02.2020.

*****

Vide para 3 of Board’s letter of even number dated 14.02.2020, Board had approved retention of Railway accommodation at the place of previous posting for SAG and above officers posted to North Eastern Railway, South Western Railway, West Central Railway and East Coast Railway for a period of two years. Board have reviewed the above decision in its Meeting held on 22.07.2020.

2. In exercise of the powers vested with the full Board to make reasonable relaxation in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the provisions regarding house allotment/retention, Board have now been decided that for officers who have retained accommodation at the previous place of posting under existing rules on the specified date i.e. 14.02.2020 when quarter retention was allowed to Zonal Railways etc. the retention shall be regularised.


*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 91/2020 No. P[R]500/XVI Date: 22.09.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/AC-II/21/3 dated 03.09.2020 [RBA No.68/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 25.11.2013 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.126/2013.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2020/AC-II/21/3 dated 03.09.2020 [RBA No.68/2020]

Sub: Co-authorisation of permanently disabled child/children in PPO for Family Pension - Reg. Ref: DOP&PW OM No.1/6/2020-P&PW(E) dated 03.3.2020.

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***

Please find enclosed copy of the DOP&PW’s instructions issued vide letter cited under reference above. The guidelines already issued on the subject matter i.e., co- authorisation of permanently disabled child/children in PPO for Family/Pension are reiterated to avoid hardship to pensioners while processing such cases.

1. DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 01.07.2013 mentioned in DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 03.03.2020 was adopted vide letter No.2013/AC-II/21/5 dated 25.11.2013.

2. Sub-rule 2(iv) of Rule 81 of the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972 mentioned in DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 03.03.2020 corresponds to sub-rule 2(vi) of Rule 100 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993.

3. Rule 54(6) of CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972 corresponds to Rule 75(6) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993.

Kindly note and notify all concerned. Strict Compliance to these guidelines may also be ensured.

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 1/6/2020-P&PW[E] dated 03.03.2020

Sub: Co-authorisation of permanently disabled child/children in PPO for Family Pension - Reg

*** It has come to the notice of this Department that pensioners are facing difficulties in co-authorizing their disabled child or sibling in the Pension Payment Orders (PPOs), due to the insistence of sanctioning authorities for supply of information such as passport size photographs of the guardian, copy of passbook/particulars indicating. Bank account details of the guardian, etc. The undersigned is directed to say that several guidelines have already been issued in the matter to avoid any hardship to pensioners while processing their case of co- authorization in favour of permanently disabled child/children or sibling. On the basis of OMs already issued. The process of co-authorization is being reiterated as under:-

1. Permanently disabled child/children or sibling can be co-authorized in the PPO issued to the retiring Government servant if there is no other eligible prior claimant for family pension other than the spouse (OM. No.1.27/2011-P&PW (E) dated 1st July, 2013)

2. The Pension Disbursing Authority shall authorize payment of family pension to a permanently disabled child or dependent parent or disabled sibling whose name has been included in the Pension Payment Order after receipt of claim on death or ineligibility of family pensioner. Bank will also facilitate in opening account if there is no account in the name of co-authorized individual. (As pr proviso under Sub-rule (vi) of Rule 81 of CCS (Pension) Rule, 1972)

3. In the case of a mentally disabled child/children or sibling, the family pension shall be payable to a person nominated by the Government servant on the

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pensioner. (As per proviso under Sub-rule 6 of Rule 54 of CCS (Pension) Rule, 1972)

4. In case no such nomination has been furnished to the Head of Office by such Government servant or pensioner during his lifetime, it will be payable to the person nominated by the spouse of such Government servant or family pensioners later on. (As per proviso under Sub-rule 6 of Rule 54 of CCS (Pension) Rule, 1972)

5. Certificate of guardianship issued by the local level committees under Section 14 of the National Trust Act, 1999 (the Act is issued on the authority of the law passed by the Parliament), may be accepted for nomination appointment of guardian for grant of family pension in respect of persons suffering from the above disabilities included in the Act. (As per proviso under Sub-rule 6 of Rule 54 of CCS (Pension) Rule, 1972)

6. The authorization shall be made in the PPO or by issuing a revised authority if a child/clarification or sibling is authorized for Family pension after issue of the PPO. (OM No. 1.27/2011-P&PW (E) dated 1st July, 2013). In view of above, it is clarified that Pensioners may not be persuaded to furnish information such as name of guardian photo of guardian and their Bank account details. Only details of disabled child or sibling along with disability certificate will suffiee, for processing the case of such a dependent for co-authorization in the PPO for family pension.

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PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 92/2020 No. P[R]500/NPS Date: 28.09.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/3 dated 21.09.2020 [RBE No.82/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.2016/F(E)III/1(1)/3 dated 21.09.2020 [RBE No.82/2020]

Sub: Operational guidelines for National Pension Scheme Tier II- Tax Saver Scheme, 2020 (NPS- TTS)

***

A copy of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)’s circulars No. PFRDA/10/01/1/0003/2018-PDES, dated 17th August 2020 providing operational guidelines for National Pension Scheme Tier-II-Tax Saver Scheme, 2020 (NPS-TTS) is enclosed for information and compliance. The instructions contained in this circular shall apply mutatis mutandis on Railways also.

Copy of Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA)’s Letter No. PFRDA/10/01/1/0003/2018-PDES, dated 17th August 2020.

Sub: Operational Guidelines for National Pension Scheme Tier II- Tax Saver Scheme, 2020 (NPS- TTS)

***

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In terms of the Government of India Notification No.45/2020/F.No.370142/26/2019-TPL dated 7th July 2020, the following operational guidelines are being issued in respect of National Pension Scheme Tier II- Tax Saver Scheme, 2020 (NPS- TTS).

S.No. Particulars Details 1. Eligibility Any Central Government NPS subscriber 2. Lock-in period 03 years from the date of unitization of contributions

by CRA 3. Accounts Types Tier-I- mandatory pension a/c

Tier-II- optional a/c and freely withdrawable Tier II (Tax Saver)- optional a/c with 80C benefit

4. Investment Choice & Pattern

No investment choice to the subscriber. It will be a composite scheme with the following investment limits for the Pension Funds:

Asset Class Limits Equity* 10%- 25% Debt** Upto 90% Cash/Money Market/Limit MFs

Upto 5%

Investment guidelines as applicable for E-II ** Investment guidelines as applicable for G-II and C-II

5. Choice of Pension Fund Subscribe can choose any Pension Fund. Subscribe will be allowed to have maximum 03 Pension Funds, separately for NPS-TTS. PF change will be allowed after the lock- in period. Such re-investments will be treated as fresh investments and will be again locked-in for 03 years

6. Withdrawals No withdrawals will be allowed during the lock-in period However, in case of death of subscriber, the corpus can be withdrawn by the nominee/legal heir.

7. Exit/Premature Closure In case of closure of Tier-I account due to exit from NPS, contributions to NPS-TTS will not be allowed and NPS-TTS will be closed after completion of lock-in period.

8. Minimum/Maximum Contributions, Charges, Operations, Others

Same as Tier-II – optional a/c which is freely withdrawable and has no tax benefits.

*****


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Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 18.09.2020 [RBE No.81/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 18.09.2020 [RBE No.81/2020]

Sub: Clarification on reckoning of re-promotion of an employee fixed under FR 22(I)(a)(2) for the purpose of financial upgradation under MACPS.

***

References have been received in Board’s Office from some of the Railways, seeking clarification on the abovementioned subject. The issue has been examined in consultation with DOP&T, the nodal department of the Government on MACPS. It has been observed that MACPS guidelines do not make a special provision for transferred employees vis-à-vis other employees in the new organization for determining their eligibility for further financial upgradation, as the actual pay drawn by a transferred employee on promotion/re-promotion in the new organization is of no consequence for determining his eligibility for further financial upgradation under MACPS. It has further been observed that MACPS does not allow for ignoring promotion earned in the new organization. As such it is clarified that promotion earned in the new organization either to the same level (i.e. level from which the employee was reverted in the old organization before transfer) or to a higher level, is to be counted as an offset against entitlement for further financial upgradation under MACPS. For better appreciation illustrations are cited in the enclosed annexure. The cases may be decided accordingly.


3. This disposes off Southern Railway’s letter No.P.481/TVC/E/VII/PC/MACPS dt. 05.12.2018 and East Coast Railway’s letter No.ECoR/Accts/BBS/Admn-Bills/4268 dated 26.12.2018.

Annexure

(PC-V/2016/MACPS/1 dated 18.09.2020)

1. Illustration cited by Southern Railway is as under:-

Post Pay Scale/G.P. Date Remarks

ASM 330-560/GP-2800 13.01.1983 Appointment SM 5000-8000/GP- 4200 01.03.1986 Promotion ASM GP-2800 15.09.1990 Transferred by

granting pay protection

SM 5000-8000/GP- 4200 01.10.1999 Re-promotion (pay fixed under FR22(1)(a)(ii)

GP-4600 01.10.2009 3rd Financial

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upgradation*

In this case the employee is eligible for 3rd financial upgradation in GP 4600 after 10 years from re-promotion or 30 years from the date of direct entry grade whichever is earlier. In this case it is 01.10.2009. It is also to be noted that the employee is not eligible for further financial Upgradation in GP 4800 as he has already been promoted twice and granted 3rd financial upgradation in GP 4600.

2. E. Coast Railway has cited the following illustration:- Post

Pay Scale Date Remarks

JAA 4500- 7000 01.06.1994 Appointment AA 5500- 9000 01.06.1997 Promotion JAA 4500- 7000 04.08.1998 Transferred to lower post with pay

protection. AA 5500- 9000 01.10.2003 Re-promotion but fixed with

FR(22)(I)(a)(ii) In this case the employee is eligible for 3rd financial upgradation after 10 years from re-promotion or 30 years from the date of direct entry grade, whichever is earlier.

***


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)II-2017/HW-1 dated 29.09.2020 [RBE No.83/2020; PC-VII/159] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 08.03.2018 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.50/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)II-2017/HW-1 dated 29.09.2020 [RBE No.83/2020; PC-VII/159]

Sub: Payment of Night Duty Allowance (NDA) pursuant to the recommendations of 7th Central Pay Commission-reg.

***

Please refer to Board’s letter of even number dated 08.03.2018 (RBE No.36/2018) whereby the rates for revision of Night Duty Allowance (NDA) have been issued.

2. The matter has been reviewed based on the orders received from DoPT, the nodal Deptt of Govt. on NDA. The President is pleased to decide that the hourly rate of

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NDA shall be equal to {Basic Pay + Dearness Allowance)/200} which would be admissible to eligible categories of non-gazetted Railway Servants classified under chapter XIV of the Railway Act, 1989 read with the Railway Servants (Hours of Work and Period of Rest) Rules, 2005 for work put in during the period from 2200 hrs to 0600 hrs. The ceiling of basic pay for entitlement of Night Duty Allowance shall be Rs.43600/- per month. The rate should be worked out separately for each employee. The present formulation of weightage of 10 minutes for every hour of duty performed between the hours of 22:00 and 06:00 would continue.

3. The grant of NDA shall be subject to furnishing of a certificate by the supervisor concerned that Night Duty is essential.

4. These instructions will be applicable w.e.f. 01.07.2017.


*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 95/2020 No. P[R]500/NPS Date: 01.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated 30.09.2020 [RBE No.84/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 03.03.2020, 26.09.2005, 04.11.2009 and 29.05.2009 quoted therein were circulated as Serial Circular Nos.37/2020, 170/2005, 176/2009 and 97/2009, respectively.


Sub: Coverage under Railway Services (Pension) Rule, 1993, in place of National Pension System (NPS) in terms of DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 17.02.2020- clarification- regarding.

***** A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW’s) O.M. No. 57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 25th June, 2020 is enclosed herewith for compliance and guidance. These instructions shall apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 correspond to the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to the DOP&PW’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid O.M. dated 25th June, 2020 are given under:-

S.No DOP&PW’s instructions Railway Board’s corresponding instructions.

1. O.M. No. 57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 17.02.2020.

Letter No.D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated. 03.03.2020

2. O.M. No. 28/30/2004-P&PW(B) Letter No. F(E)III/2005/PN 1/35 dated.

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dated 26.07.2005. 26.09.2005. 3. O.M. No. 28/30/2004-P&PW(B)

dated 28.10.2009. Letter No. F(E)III/2005/PN 1/35 dated. 04.11.2009.

4. O.M. No. 38/41/06-P&PW(A) dated 05.05.2009.

Letter No. 2008/AC-II/21/19 dated 29.05.2009.

5. Para 9 of DOP&PW’s O.M. No.57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 17.02.2020.

Instructions will be issued by Accounts Directorate.

Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 57/04/2019-P&PW(B) dated 25th June, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Coverage under Railway Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 in place of National Pension System in terms of DOP&PW’s O.M. dated 17.02.2020- clarification- regarding.

*****

The undersigned is directed to say that instructions have been issued vide this Department’s O.M. of even number dated 17th February, 2020, that in all cases where the results for recruitment were declared before 01.01.2004, against vacancies occurring on or before 31.12.2003, the candidates declared successful for recruitment shall be eligible for coverage under the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972. Accordingly, such Government servants who were declared successful for recruitment in the results declared on or before 31.12.2003, against vacancies occurring before 01.01.2004 and are covered under the National Pension System on joining service on or after 01.01.2004, may be given a one-time option to be covered under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

2. Reference have been received in this Department seeking clarification in regard to the implementation of the aforesaid instructions in certain circumstances. The issues raised by the various Departments have been examined in this Department and the position is clarified as under:

S.No. Issue raised Clarification 1 A Government servant joined

in a Department/ Office of the Central Government on or after 01.01.2004 on the basis of results declared before 01.01.2004 against vacancies occurred prior to 01.01.2004 and thereafter joined another Central Government Department /Office with proper permission after tendering technical resignation. Can the option

Such a Government servant is also eligible to exercise option under O.M. dated 17.02.2020. A decision on the option shall be taken by the appointing authority of the post in the Department/Office for which such option is exercised by Government servant. In case the Government servant has submitted his option in his latest Department/office, that Department /Office shall forward the option to the concerned Department/office, for taking an appropriate decision. The decision taken by the concerned Department/Office shall be

171

exercised by such a Government servant considered in accordance with the O.M. dated 17.02.2020 and, if so, which Department/office will take

communicated to his latest Department. In such cases, the instructions relating to mobility as contained in this Department’s O.Ms. No. 28/30/2004-P&PW(B) dated 26.07.2005 and 28.10.2009 shall also be applicable and further action for counting of past service for pension/gratuity shall be taken in accordance with the CCS(Pension) Rules, 1972 by the latest Department/Office.

2 Can an option exercised by a member of the family of the deceased Government servant be considered.

If a Government servant, who was otherwise eligible to exercise option in terms of the O.M. dated 17.02.2020, has already died, the option exercised by the member of the family, who is eligible to receive NPS benefits on death of the Government servant in accordance with PFRDA (Exits and Withdrawals under NPS) Regulations, may be accepted and processed in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s OM dated 17.02.2020. If, before his death, the Government servant had joined another Central Government Department/office with proper permission after tendering technical resignation, the option exercised by the such nominee shall be processed in accordance with the clarification No. (1) above.

3 In cases covered by clarification No. (2), how will the amount of the corpus in the NPS account, which was transferred to the Government consequent on death of the Government servant in accordance with the O.M. No. 38/41/06/P&PW(A) dated 05.05.2009, be adjusted.

The amount of the corpus in the NPS account, which was transferred to the Government consequent on death of the Government servant, shall be adjusted in the manner indicated in para 9 of this Department’s O.M. dated 17.02.2020, with the modification that the employee’s contributing in the NPS account along with up-to-date interest, calculated on the rates applicable to GPF from time to time, shall be paid to the person in whose favour a nomination to receive NPS amount was submitted by the Government servant under the Regulations notified by PFRDA.

4 Will the instructions contained in the OM dated 17.02.2020 be applicable in the case of Government servants who joined on or after 01.01.2004 on appointment on compassionate grounds. If so,

A Government servant, who joined on or after 01.01.2004 on appointment on compassionate grounds, shall be eligible to exercise option in terms of the OM dated 17.02.2020, if the competent authority had taken the decision on the recommendation of the Screening/Selection Committee to

172

how will the eligibility of such Government servants to exercise option under OM dated 17.02.2020 be determined.

appoint the Government servant on compassionate grounds before 01.01.2004.

3. All Ministries/ Departments are required to bring the contents of these clarifications to the notice of Controller of Accounts/Pay and Accounts Officers, Attached office and Subordinate Offices under them.


No. P[R]96/III Date: 05.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/PS/1(Stipend) dated 16.09.2020 [RBE No.80/2020; PC-VII/157] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 08.03.2018 quoted therein was circulated as Serial Circular No.50/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/PS/1(Stipend) dated 16.09.2020 [RBE No.80/2020; PC-VII/157]

Sub: Revision of rates of stipend to apprentices and trainees on Railways.

*** Consequent upon revision of Grade Pay/Pay Level of the category of Ticket Collector from GP 1900 to GP- 2000/Pay Level- 3 vide Railway Board’s letter dated 02.8.2016, one of the Federations (AIRF) raised the issue of revision of rates of stipend to Ticket Collector/Ticket Examiner. The matter has been considered and it has been decided to revise the rates of stipend of the category of Ticket Collector at S.No. 41. Of the Schedule of Board’s letters of even number dated 02.02.2017 and 11.9.2018 as under: S.No. Category Training

period Grade Pay in VI CPC Pay Structure (Rs.)

Corresponding Revised Pay Level in the 7th CPC Pay Matrix

Revised rates of stipend in the corresponding Pay Level (Rs.)

41. Ticket Collector (erstwhile Ticket Examiner)

26 days 2000 3 21700

2. The above revised rate of stipend is applicable with effect from 01.08.2016.


*****

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Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/TR/16 dated 01.10.2020 [RBE No.85/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/TR/16 dated 01.10.2020 [RBE No.85/2020]

Sub: Inter- Railway Request Transfer – Hardships being faced by the staff – Reg.

***

As the Railways are aware, transfers on request of officials working on the Zonal Railways cannot be claimed as a matter of right. However, enabling provisions under Ministry of Railways’ decision below Rule 226 of IREC Vol.I allows Transfer of Railway Servant in Group ‘C’ on request on the grounds of hardship from one Railway to another Detailed instruction/guidelines governing such transfers have been laid down by the Board from time to time.

2. Despite several executive orders issued by the Board from time to time to minimize the hardship of the officials, repeated complaints are being received from staff and the Federations that the transfer requests are not being processed properly. It has been observed that after issue of the NOC by the accepting Railway, the staff concerned are not relieved on time, at times taking more than one year, and by the time the staff are relieved on the basis of the NOC, the vacancies get filled up, and the Railway which had issued the NOC refuses to accept the transferred staff, putting such staff to considerable hardship as he is left with nowhere to go, having been relieved by the parent Railway.

3. The matter has been considered by the Board. To obviate such issues, it has been decided by the Board that NOC issued by the receiving Railway should be valid for a period of six months, and if transfer of the employees concerned are not effected within this period the NOC in such cases should be mandatorily revalidated. The employees should be relieved on transfer only after re-confirming the validity of the NOC.


No. P[R]535/XI Date: 08.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/PM1/18 dated 07.10.2020 [RBE No.87/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 29.03.2005 and 20.03.2007 quoted therein were circulated as Serial Circular Nos. 61/2005 and 47/2007 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2020/PM1/18 dated 07.10.2020 [RBE No.87/2020]

Sub: Aptitude Test (earlier Psychological Test) in departmental selection-

174

calling the candidates on or one day prior to the test. ***

As the Railways are aware, instructions contained in this Ministry’s letter number E(NG)I-2002/PM1/31 Vol.II dated 20-03-2007 provides that for Aptitude Test in departmental selection/promotion to the posts of Station Master, ALPs and Motormen, candidates be called a day prior to holding of the Aptitude Test, for the hands on practice session, so that they get familiar with the nature of the Test batteries with the aim of improving the performance of the candidates in the Aptitude Test.

A suggestion has been received from Research Designs & Standard Organisation (RDSO) that instead of calling one day before to give hands-on practice session, same can be done in forenoon session and actual test may be conducted in afternoon session ono same day. The matter has accordingly been considered in consultation with the concerned Directorates and it has been decided that employees should be called for appearing in the Aptitude Test, either a day prior to the actual date of holding of the test, or on the same day, as may be needed in future.

Other terms and conditions as contained in letter No.E(NG)I-2002/PM1/31 Vol.II dated 29.03.2005 remains unchanged.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACP/1 dated 13.10.2020 [RBE No.88/2020; PC-VI/404] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 10.06.2009 and 12.10.2018 quoted therein were circulated as Serial Circular Nos.85/2009 and 178/2018, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2016/MACP/1 dated 13.10.2020 [RBE No.88/2020; PC-VI/404]

Sub: Fixation of pay on grant of benefit under Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) – Extension of the benefit of entry level pay provided in Board’s letter dated 12.10.2018 (RBE No.158/2018)

***

Reference is invited to para 4 of Annexure to Board’s letter dated 10.6.2009 (RBE No.101/2009) regarding regulation of fixation of pay at the time of regular promotion in the same or higher Grade Pay as granted under MACPS. Now DOP&T vide their OM 35034/3/2015-Estt.(D) dated 08.9.2020 (copy enclosed) has issued revised guidelines for fixation of pay of the employees who have been granted regular promotion after grant of financial upgradation under ACP/MACPS. These instructions shall apply mutatis-mutandis on the Railways also.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to the DOP&T/DOE’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid OM dated 08.9.2020 are given as under:-

175

S.No DOP&T’s/DOE’s instructions Railway Board’s corresponding instructions

1. DOP&T’s OM No.35034/3/2008-Estt.(D) dated 19.5.2009

Letter No.PC-V/2009/ACP/2 dated 10.6.2009 (RBE No.101/2009)

2. DOP&T’s OM No.8-23/2017-E.IIIA dated 28.9.2018

Letter No.PC-VI/2018/I/RSRP/1 dated 12.10.2018 (RBE No.158/2018)


Copy of DOP&PW’s O.M. No. 35034/3/2015-Estt.(D) dated 08.9.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Fixation of pay on grant of benefit under Modified Assured Career Progression Scheme (MACPS) – Extension of the benefit of entry level pay provided in DoE’s OM dated 28.9.2018 -reg.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to the guidelines on MACPS (Para 4 of Annexure-I to OM No. 35034/3/2008-Estt.(D) dated 19.05.2009) which provides that the benefit of pay fixation available at the time of regular promotion shall be allowed at the time of financial upgradation under the Scheme i.e. the pay shall be raised by 3% of the total pay in the pay band and the grade pay drawn before such upgradation. The said guideline further provides that there shall, however, be no further fixation of pay at the time of regular promotion if it is in the same grade pay as granted under MACPS. However, at the time of actual promotion if it happens to be in a post carrying higher grade pay than what is available under MACPS, no pay fixation would be available and only difference of grade pay would be made available. Similar provisions had been prescribed for fixation of pay under ACP Scheme.

2. The Department of Expenditure (DoE) issued OM No.8-23/2017-E.IIIA dated 28.9.2018, inter alia providing that in respect of those posts where entry pay for direct recruits appointed on or after 1.1.2006, as per Section-II of Part A of First Schedule of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008, becomes applicable by virtue of the provision of the element of direct recruitment in the relevant recruitment rules, the pay of Central Government employees who were appointed to such posts by way of promotion on or after 1.1.2006 and whose pay, as fixed under Rule 13 of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008, happens to be lower than the said entry pay, shall not be less than such entry pay from the date of their promotion taking place on or after 1.1.2006.

3. A number of references have been received in this Department seeking clarification as to whether the benefit of entry level pay prescribed for direct recruits as per Section -II of Part A of First Schedule of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008 and allowed on promotion on or after 1.1.2006, in terms of DoE’s OM dated 28.9.2018, can be extended to cases where financial upgradation have been granted to employees under ACPS till

176

31.8.2008 or under MACPS on or after 1.9.2008, in the same Grade Pay which is also the Grade Pay applicable for the promotion post and the promotional post has an element of direct recruitment, irrespective of whether the employee has been subsequently promoted to the said promotional post or not on or after 1.1.2006, as the pay once fixed under ACPS/MACPS is final and no re-fixation of pay is allowed on actual promotion. It is clarified that the benefit of entry level pay prescribed for direct recruits in terms of DoE’s OM dated 28.9.2018 cannot be allowed at the time of grant of financial upgradation under ACPS between 1.1.2006 to 31.8.2008 or MACPS between 1.9.2008 to 31.12.2015 (6th CPC period), since financial upgradation under ACPS/MACPS cannot be treated strictly as a substitute for regular promotion.

4. However, due to the condition that pay once fixed on grant of financial upgradation is not to be re-fixed at the time of regular promotion, as provided in the guidelines on ACPS/MACPS, the issue of extension of benefit allowed under DoE’s OM dated 28.9.2018,to those employees, who were granted financial upgradation under ACPS and subsequently promoted on regular basis on or after 1.1.2006 or who were granted financial upgradation under MACPS and subsequently promoted on regular basis between 1.9.2008 till 31.12.2015 to posts carrying the same Grade Pay in which they have been granted financial upgradation, and where the promotional post has an element of direct recruitment and where the pay drawn by such employees at the time of their regular promotion is lower than the entry level pay prescribed for direct recruits in Section-II of Part A of First Schedule of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008, has been considered in consultation with the Department of Expenditure.

5. Accordingly, where promotion between 1.1.2006 to 31.12.2015 is to be a post having an element of direct recruitment, it has been decided to extend the benefit allowed under DoE’s OM dated 28.9.2018, in the following cases, by allowing refixation of pay of employees on the date of their regular promotion at the stage equivalent to the minimum entry level pay, if on the date of their regular promotion it is lower than the minimum entry level pay prescribed for direct recruits under Section-II of Part A of First Schedule of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008:-

(i) employees who have earned financial upgradation under ACPS prior to 1.1.2006 and have been subsequently promoted on regular basis on or after 1.1.2006;

(ii) employees who have earned financial upgradation under ACPS between 1.1.2006 and 31.8.2008 and have been subsequently promoted on regular basis; and

(iii) employees who have earned financial upgradation under MACPS on or after 1.9.2008 and have been subsequently promoted on regular basis to a post carrying the same Grade Pay in which they have been granted financial upgradation.

6. All Ministries/Departments are requested to bring these instructions to the notice of all concerned.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 100/2020No. P[R]583/Bonus/V Date: 21.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.No.91/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E[P&A]II/2020/PLB

Sub: Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to all eligible non Railway employees

The President is pleased to sanction Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent to 78 [Seventy Eight] days wages without any ceiling on wages for eligibility for the financial year 2019-20 to all eligible nonRPF/RPSF personnel). Where wages exceed Bonus will be calculated as if ‘wages’ are

2. ‘Wages’ for the purpose of calculating Productivity Li‘Basic pay’ as defined in the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 and dearness allowance drawn during the financial year 201method of calculation of wages, etc., as prescribed in this Ministry’s instructions and clarifications issued from time to time, shall remain unchanged. 3. It has also been decided that in the case of eligible employeesPara-1 above who were not placed under suspension, or had not quit service/ retired/expired during the financial year 201admissible is not less than that admissible on leave on average pay, may be pamount of 17,951/- towards Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 2012020. In the case of employees other than those mentioned above, the amount of Productivity Linked Bonus may be calculated in accordance with the extant instructions on the subject.

4. Further, in relaxation to the provisions in Rules 905(2), 908 and 909 of State Railway Provident Fund Rules, as contained in Chapter 9 of R.I/1985 edition [2003 Reprint Edition], such of the subscribers to the SRPF as are entitled to ProLinked Bonus may, if they so desire, deposit the whole or part of the amount admissible under the Scheme in their respective State Railway Provident Fund Accounts.

5. Disbursement of Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 201eligible non-gazetted Railway employees mentioned in para 1 above should be made on priority in the same mode as payment of salary before the ensuing Puja/Dussehra holidays.

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

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PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 100/2020No. P[R]583/Bonus/V Date: 21.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E[P&A]II/2020/PLB-1 dated

/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

No.E[P&A]II/2020/PLB-1 dated 21.10.2020 [RBE No.91/2020]

Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to all eligible non-gazettedRailway employees for the financial year 2019-2020.

******

The President is pleased to sanction Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent days wages without any ceiling on wages for eligibility for the to all eligible non-gazetted Railway employees (excluding all

RPF/RPSF personnel). Where wages exceed 7000/- per month, Productivity Linked Bonus will be calculated as if ‘wages’ are 7000/- p.m.

‘Wages’ for the purpose of calculating Productivity Linked Bonus shall include ‘Basic pay’ as defined in the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 and dearness allowance drawn during the financial year 2019-2020. Other conditions of eligibility, method of calculation of wages, etc., as prescribed in this Ministry’s instructions and clarifications issued from time to time, shall remain unchanged.

It has also been decided that in the case of eligible employees1 above who were not placed under suspension, or had not quit service/

retired/expired during the financial year 2019-2020. or were on leave where leave salary admissible is not less than that admissible on leave on average pay, may be p

towards Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 201In the case of employees other than those mentioned above, the amount of

Productivity Linked Bonus may be calculated in accordance with the extant instructions

Further, in relaxation to the provisions in Rules 905(2), 908 and 909 of State Railway Provident Fund Rules, as contained in Chapter 9 of R.I/1985 edition [2003 Reprint Edition], such of the subscribers to the SRPF as are entitled to ProLinked Bonus may, if they so desire, deposit the whole or part of the amount admissible under the Scheme in their respective State Railway Provident Fund Accounts.

Disbursement of Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 201gazetted Railway employees mentioned in para 1 above should be made

on priority in the same mode as payment of salary before the ensuing Puja/Dussehra

This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of the Ministry of

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 100/2020

dated 21.10.2020 [RBE /2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

1 dated 21.10.2020 [RBE No.91/2020]

gazetted

The President is pleased to sanction Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent days wages without any ceiling on wages for eligibility for the

gazetted Railway employees (excluding all per month, Productivity Linked

nked Bonus shall include ‘Basic pay’ as defined in the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 and dearness

. Other conditions of eligibility, method of calculation of wages, etc., as prescribed in this Ministry’s instructions and

It has also been decided that in the case of eligible employees mentioned in 1 above who were not placed under suspension, or had not quit service/

or were on leave where leave salary admissible is not less than that admissible on leave on average pay, may be paid an

towards Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 2019-In the case of employees other than those mentioned above, the amount of

Productivity Linked Bonus may be calculated in accordance with the extant instructions

Further, in relaxation to the provisions in Rules 905(2), 908 and 909 of State Railway Provident Fund Rules, as contained in Chapter 9 of R.I/1985 edition [2003 Reprint Edition], such of the subscribers to the SRPF as are entitled to Productivity Linked Bonus may, if they so desire, deposit the whole or part of the amount admissible under the Scheme in their respective State Railway Provident Fund Accounts.

Disbursement of Productivity Linked Bonus for the financial year 2019-2020 to all gazetted Railway employees mentioned in para 1 above should be made

on priority in the same mode as payment of salary before the ensuing Puja/Dussehra

This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of the Ministry of

178

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 20.10.2020 [RBE No.89/2020] together with letter No. E(G)2020 RN 2-5 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE No.61/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 19.05.2020 and 01.07.2020 quoted therein were circulated as Serial Circular Nos.51/2020 and 59/2020, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 20.10.2020 [RBE No.89/2020] together with letter No. E(G)2020 RN 2-5 dated 31.07.2020 [RBE

No.61/2020]


***

Board, in its meeting held on 29.09.2020, reviewed the following letters issued in connection with the one-time relaxation given to the allottees of Railway accommodation in view of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19):

(1) Letter No. E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 19.05.2020 (RBE No.38/2020) (2) Letter No. E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 01.07.2020 (RBE No.47/2020) (3) Letter No. E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 31.07.2020 (RBE No.60/2020) (4) Letter No. E(G) 2020 RN 2-5 dated 31.07.2020 (RBE No.61/2020)

Board have, in supersession of above orders, now decided that retention of Railway accommodation shall be allowed for the period from 17.03.2020 to 31.05.2020 by the officers/staff who were/are due to vacate their flats/houses during the above period. No damage rent will be charged for this period. These relaxation will be given to such allottees also who have become unauthorized occupants of Railway accommodation before 17.03.2020. However, in such cases, excluding the retention period from 17.03.2020 to 30.11.2020, the damage charges at telescopic rates, as was continuing prior to this period will apply.


Sub: Quarter retention for officers whose vacation date falls during COVID period.

***

Railway Board have considered the representations received from officers expressing difficulties in locating alternative accommodation and vacating Railway quarters on transfer/superannuation.

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2. In exercise of the powers vested with the full Board to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the provisions regarding house allotment/retention, full Board have decided that quarter retention for officers whose vacation date falls during COVID-19 period i.e. after 24th March shall be extended by a maximum period of four months subject to the outermost limit of 31st October, 2020. All the officers shall be advised to make arrangement to vacate the quarter within the extended period and in no case later than 31st October, 2020. This shall similarly apply to DRMs who have been allowed to retain railway quarters at their previous place of posting.


***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 102/2020 No. P[R]673/VII Date: 27.10.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2019/3/44 dated 27.01.2020 [RBE No.10/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2019/3/44 dated 27.01.2020 [RBE No.10/2020]

Sub: Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazette Staff of Electrical Department.

Ref: Chairman/Railway Board’s letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018 and Board’s letter dated 06.12.2018.

***

Vide Board (CRB) letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018, DG/NAIR had been authorized as the Head of the Academic Council of all CTIs to develop Training Modules of all categories of Non-Gazetted staff, Accordingly, training modules of Electrical Department was finalized and sent to this office.

2. Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) has reviewed the above Training Modules proposed and submitted by DG/NAIR. Board (MTR & MS) has approved the revised training modules.

3. The revised modules prepared have been scanned and uploaded under E(MPP) Training Circulars) and can be viewed or downloaded from railnet.

4. General Manager shall identify the locations for conducting training of staff on the above revised modules in their respective Zones.

*****


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Sub: Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazette Staff of Mechanical Department (Supervisors). Ref: Chairman/Railway Board’s letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018 and Board’s letter dated 06.12.2018.

***

Vide Board (CRB) letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018, DG/NAIR had been authorized as the Head of the Academic Council of all CTIs to develop Training Modules of all categories of Non-Gazetted staff, Accordingly, training modules of Mechanical Department (Supervisors) was finalized and sent to this office.

2. Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) has reviewed the above Training Modules proposed and submitted by DG/NAIR. Board (MRS & MS) has approved the revised training modules.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2009/3/14 Pt. dated 05.06.2020 [RBE No.41/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2009/3/14 Pt. dated 05.06.2020 [RBE No.41/2020]

Sub: Revised Training Modules for New Assistant Loco Pilots for Dual Traction (Induction training as well as Conversion training programme).

***

As per Board’s letter No.E(MPP)/2009/3/14 dated 05.06.2009 (RBE No.99/2009), the existing training period of Induction training programme (Dual Traction) and Conversion training programme of Assistant Loco Pilots is 151 days and 48 days, respectively.

2. In view of technological changes and changed job requirements, Ministry of Railways in consultation with Mechanical Directorate and Electrical Directorate has decided to revise the training period of Induction Training Programme (Dual Traction) and Conversion Training Programme of Assistant Loco Pilots as under:

* Induction Training Programme (Dual Traction) of ALPs – 109 days

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* Conversion Training Programme of ALPs – 36 days.

3. The Revised Training Modules/detailed course contents is enclosed herewith. It has also been scanned and uploaded under E(MPP) Training Circulars) and can be viewed or downloaded from Railnet.

*****




Sub: Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazette Staff of Signal & Telecommunication Department. Ref: Chairman/Railway Board’s letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018 and Board’s letter dated 06.12.2018.

***

Vide Board (CRB) letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018, DG/NAIR had been authorized as the Head of the Academic Council of all CTIs to develop Training Modules of all categories of Non-Gazetted staff, Accordingly, training modules of Signal & Telecommunication Department was finalized and sent to this office.

2. Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) has reviewed the above Training Modules proposed and submitted by DG/NAIR. Board (Member/S&T & MS) has approved the revised training modules.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2019/3/48 Pt. dated 08.11.2019[RBE No.191/2019] is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(MPP) 2019/3/48 Pt. dated 08.11.2019 [RBE No.191/2019]

Sub: Revised Training Modules of Non-Gazette Staff of Mechanical Department (Non-Supervisors). Ref: Chairman/Railway Board’s letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018 and Board’s letter dated 06.12.2018.

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***

Vide Board (CRB) letter No.E(MPP)/2016/3/20 dated 28.11.2018, DG/NAIR had been authorized as the Head of the Academic Council of all CTIs to develop Training Modules of all categories of Non-Gazetted staff, Accordingly, training modules of Mechanical Department (Non-Supervisors) was finalized and sent to this office.

2. Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) has reviewed the above Training Modules proposed and submitted by DG/NAIR. Board (MRS & MS) has approved the revised training modules.

3. The revised modules prepared have been scanned and uploaded under E(MPP) Training Circulars) and can be viewed or downloaded from railnet at http://www.Indianrailways.gov.in/railwayboard/viewsection, jsp?lang=0&id=0,1,304,366,530,1068.

4. It will be decision of General Manager/PHOD to identify the locations for conducting training of staff on the above revised modules in their respective Zones.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.107/2020 No. P[R]605/XIV Date: 04.11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/2019/PM 7/3 dated 02.11.2019 [RBE No.94/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 02.02.1998 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 67/1998.


Sub: Procedure for filling up the posts of Skilled Artisan against 25% quota.

***

As the Railway Administration are aware, instructions contained in Railway Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/96/PM 7/56 dated 02.02.1998 (RBE No.23/98) and Para 159 of IREM Vol.I, inter-alia provide that 25% posts of Technician -III in various Engineering Departments is filled up from serving semi-skilled and unskilled staff with educational qualification as laid down in the Apprentices Act and 50% by promotion of staff in the lower grade as per prescribed procedure.

It has been reported that the Railways were facing difficulty in filling up the vacancies in the aforesaid category in P.Way of the Civil Engineering Department due to lack of basic knowledge of P.Way working among the eligible feeder categories.

The matter has accordingly been considered by the Railway Board in consultation with the Zonal Railways and Civil Engineering Dte., and it has been decided that the category of Track Maintainers may also be made eligible to be

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considered for promotion to the posts of Technician-III (Level-2) in the P.Way/Engineering Department.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.108/2020 No. P[R]500/NPS Date: 09.11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2005/PN1 /12 dated 28.10.2020 [RBE No.93/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 23.11.2009 and 21.02.2019 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos. 188/2009 and 34/2019, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.F(E)III/2005/PN1 /12 dated 28.10.2020 [RBE No.93/2020]

Sub: Calculation of monthly contribution towards cost of Pension payable during foreign service- reg.

***

A copy of Department of Personnel & Training (Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions)’s O.M. No. 2/9/2017- Estt. (Pay-II), dated 09th October, 2020 on the above subject is enclosed for information and compliance. DOP&T’s O.M. No. 2/34/2008-Estt.(Pay-II) dated 19th November, 2009 and Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance)’s Gazetted notification No. 1/3/2016-PR dated 31st January, 2019, mentioned in the O.M. dated 09.10.2020 were circulated on the Railways vide this office’s letters No.F(E)III/2005/PN1/12 dated 23.11.2009 and D-43/12/2018-F(E)III dated 21.02.2019 respectively.

Copy of Min. of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions (DOP&T)O.M.No. 2/9/2017-Estt.[Pay II] dated 9th October, 2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Calculation of monthly contribution towards cost of Pension payable during foreign service – Reg.

***

The undersigned is directed to invite reference to this Department’s O.M. No. 2/34/2008-Estt. [pay II] dated 19th November, 2009 on the above subject and to say that according to this O.M. w.e.f. 1.1.2006 the pension contribution payable in respect of a Government employee during the active period of his foreign service shall be based on the existing basic pay (Pay in the Pay Band plus Grade Pay) of the post held by the Government servant at the time of proceeding on foreign service, and in case he receives Proforma promotion/financial upgradation while on foreign service, on the basic pay (Pay in the Pay Band plus Grade Pay) fixed on such promotion/financial up-gradation.

2. Consequent upon implementation of the recommendations of the 7th CPC, the matter of issuing revised instructions on the above subject has been engaging the attention of the Government of India. The President is now pleased to decide that

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pension contribution payable in respect of a Government servant during the active period of his foreign service shall be based on the basic pay in the level [in Pay matrix] of the post held by him/her at the time of proceeding on foreign service and in case he receives proforma promotion /financial up-gradation while on foreign service; the same shall be based on basic pay in the level (in pay matrix) fixed on such proforma promotion/financial up-gradation.

3 . In respect of Government employees covered by the NPS, during the active period of foreign service w.e.f. 1.1.2016, it has been decided to fix the monthly Pension contribution @24% of basic pay in the level (in Pay Matrix) of the post held by him/her at the time of proceeding on foreign service plus DA admissible on such basic pay (i.e. employee’s contribution @ 10%, employer’s contribution @ 10% and contribution by employer for gratuity @ 4%). However, consequent to revision of Government’s contribution for NPS from 10% to 14% w.e.f. 01.04.2019 vide Department of Financial Services Notification dated 31.01.2019, the monthly Pension contribution for Government employees covered by the NPS w.e.f. 01.04.2019 will be 28% of basic pay in the level (in Pay Matrix) plus DA of the post held by him/her, which will include employee’s contribution @ 10%, employer’s contribution @ 14% and contribution by employer for gratuity @ 4%. In case of grant of Proforma promotion/financial up-gradation while on foreign service, the same shall be based on basic pay in the Level (in Pay Matrix) fixed on such Proforma promotion/financial up-gradation.

4 In respect of the employees covered under the Old Defined Benefit Pension Scheme, it has been decided to fix their rates of monthly contribution of pension during the active period of foreign service as 14% of basic pay in the level (in Pay Matrix) of the post held by him/her at the time of proceeding on foreign service plus DA admissible on such basic pay during foreign service w.e.f. 01.01.2016. the monthly contribution of pension during the active period of foreign service w.e.f. 01.04.2019 will be 18% of the basic pay in Pay Matrix of the post held by the officer at the time of proceeding on foreign service plus DA admissible on such basic pay. In case of grant of Proforma promotion/financial up-gradation while on foreign service, the same shall be based on basic pay in the Level (in Pay Matrix) fixed on such Proforma promotion/financial up-gradation. 5 It has also been decided that these pension contributions would be in addition to the leave salary contributions for the period of foreign service, in respect of both NPS employees and the employees under Old Defined Benefit Pension Scheme.

6 In case of employees covered under NPS, during the period of active foreign service, the borrowing organisation shall make its part of contribution mandatorily to the NPS Accounts of the employee.

7 This OM will be effective from 01.01.2016. In respect of persons who are already on foreign service as on 01.01.2016, the pension contribution will be calculated at the

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above rates on the revised pay as per 7th CPC from the date which they opt to come over to the revised pay structure after implementation of 7th CPC recommendations, in their parent cadres. For the earlier period, the pension contributions will be as per extant orders i.e. the order in force during period prior to 01.01.2016 from time to time.

8 The modalities/mechanism of payment of pension contribution during the active period of foreign service in respect of NPS subscribes will be issued separately.

9 In their application to the persons belonging to Indian Audit and Accounts Department, these orders are issued under Article 148(5) of the Constitution and after consultation with the Comptroller & Auditor General of India.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.109/2020 No. P[R]473/X Date: 09.11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-1 /3 dated 05.11.2020 [RBE No.95/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 10.09.2018 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 166/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(W)2020/PS5-1 /3 dated 05.11.2020 [RBE No.95/2020]

Sub: Special Cash Package equivalent in lieu of All India Leave Travel Concession Fare for Railway Employees during the Block 2018-2021.

***

Ministry of Finance (MoF)/ Department of Expenditure vide their OM F.No.12(2)/2020-EII(A) dated 12th October 2020 have notified a Special Cash Package (SCP) equivalent in lieu of “Leave Travel Concession Fare” for Central Government employees during the block 2018-2021 stating that in view of Covid-19 pandemic and resultant nationwide lockdown as well as disruption of transport and hospitality sector, Central Government employees are not in a position to avail themselves of LTC for travel to any place in India or their Hometown in the current Block of 2018-2021. It has been further stated therein that with a view to compensate and incentivize consumption by Central Government employees thereby giving a boost to consumption expenditure, it has been decided that cash equivalent to LTC, comprising Leave Encashment and LTC fare of the entitled LTC may be paid by way of reimbursement, if an employee opts for this in lieu of one LTC in the Block of 2018-2021 subject to certain conditions. MoF have also issued and FAQ on LTC Cash Voucher Scheme and further clarifications vide their OM F.No.12(2)/2020-EII(A) dated 20.10.2020 & 04.11.2020, respectively.

2. As the Railway employees are also facing similar situation, it has been decided by the Competent Authority to extend the aforesaid SCP (i.e. Cash equivalent to deemed AILTC fare and Leave Encashment), on the same terms and conditions, as

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notified by MoF. The important conditions stipulated in MoF’s OM dated 12.10.2020 are reproduced below:-

(a) The employee spends the money of a large sum than the entitlement on account of LTC on actual expenditure.

(b) Cash equivalent of full leave encashment will be allowed, provided the employee spends an equal sum. This will be counted towards the number of leave encashment on LTC available to an employee.

(c) The deemed LTC fare for this purpose is given below:-

Category of employees Deemed LTC fare per person (round Trip)

Employees who are entitled to business class of airfare

Rs. 36,000

Employees who are entitled to economy class of airfare

Rs. 20,000

Employees who are entitled to Rail fare of any class

Rs. 6,000

(d). The cash equivalent may be allowed if the employee spends a sum 3 times of the value of the fare given above.

(e) The amount both on account of leave encashment and fare shall be admissible if the employee spends (i) an amount equal to the value of leave encashment and; (ii) an amount 3 times of the cash equivalent of deemed fare, as given above on purchase of such items/availing of such services which carry a GST rate of not less than 12% from GST registered vendors/service providers through digital mode and obtains a voucher indicating the GST number and the amount of GST paid.

(f) The admissible payment shall be restricted to the full value of the package [leave encashment as admissible for LTC and deemed fare] or depending upon the spending as per example given at Annexure-A to MoF’s OM dated 12.10.2020.

3. The extant leave encashment instructions applicable to Railway employees also stand relaxed and modified in the lines of instructions contained in MoF’s above referred OMs, if the employee opts to avail the SCP.

4. The SCP will be admissible to all those eligible for AILTC facility in terms of Board’s letter No.E(W)2017/PS5-1/3 dated 10.09.2018 and Privilege Pass Surrender Certificate will be a mandatory prerequisite for availing SCP. Hometown LTC is not admissible under the optional AILTC scheme and hence SCP equivalent to Hometown LTC is not permissible.

5. Copies of MoF’s OMs referred under Para I above are enclosed as Annexure-I, II & III. It may be noted that if any further instructions/clarifications in the context of SCP

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are issued/uploaded by MoF in their official website (i.e. https://doe.gov.in), the same will be applicable to Railway Servants also on mutatis mutandis, with immediate effect and they will not be circulated again by the Ministry of Railways.

6. Financial aspects connected with the SCP will be clarified by the Associate Finance at all levels. However, if any clarification is required at Board’s level, reference should be made with the approval of PFA of respective Railway/PU to Finance Establishment Dte., who as Nodal Dte. In Board’s Office will examine and issue appropriate clarification.

7. This issues in consultation and with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways.

ANNEXURE-I

Copy of MoF & Department of Expenditure EII(A) Branch OM. No. F.No.12(2)/2020-EII(A) dated 12.10.2020

Office Memorandum

Sub: Grant of Advance-Special Festival Package to Government Servants.

***

The undersigned is directed to say that with a view to enable Government servants to meet expenses relating to festivals and to encourage spending thereby giving a boost to economic activities, in pursuance of decision taken by the Government, it has been decided that a special festival package of advance will be accorded to all Government servants for any important festivals upto 31st March, 2021.

2. A Head of Office may sanction this special package on the eve of any important festival to any Central Government Servant under his administrative control. The term “important festival” is clarified as such festivals or one of such festivals as Head of Department may declare in respect of establishments under his/her administrative control.

3. The amount of the package is Rs. 10,000/- to be paid as advance to Government servant. This amount is interest free. The amount would be released through pre-loaded Rupay Card from SBI. DDOs, on receipt of application from Government servants for this package may process and acquire the prepaid cards from SBI for issue among the applicants. A detailed SOP for DDOs for obtaining these cards would be separately issued.

4. The festival package may be granted to a Government servant if he/she is on Government duty or on leave excluding leave preparatory to retirement, on the date on which the advance is disbursed. The amount paid under this package is recoverable in not more than ten (10) instalments.

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5. These orders will take effect from the date of issuance of this Office Memorandum and will be in force during the current financial year till 31st March, 2021.

6. All the Ministries/Departments are requested to bring the contents of this OM to the notice of all its Attached and Subordinate offices for their information/necessary action.

ANNEXURE-II

Copy of MoF & Department of Expenditure OM. No. F.No.12(2)/2020-EII(A) dated 12.10.2020

Office Memorandum

Sub: Clarification regarding queries being received in respect of Special cash package equivalent in lieu of Leave Travel Concession Fare for Central Government Employees during the Block 2018-21.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M of even no. dated 12th October, 2020 and to say that this Department has been receiving queries seeking clarification relating to Special Package equivalent in lieu of Leave Travel Concession Fare for Central Government Employees during the Block 2018-21 announced by the Government. A statement giving answers/clarifications to the queries is attached as annexure to this O.M.

2. This issues with the approval of Secretary (Expenditure).

FAQ on Cash Vouchers Scheme

S.No Queries Reply 1 Whether the individual employee is

required to take leave to avail this LTC-Cash Voucher Scheme? Whether an employee is required to undertake any travel?

An individual need not take leave for this purpose nor undertake any travel. This is a scheme in lieu of LTC travel.

2 If a particular LTC which is meant to be used for the scheme has been partially availed by either self or members of the family, whether this scheme is available and to what extent?

This scheme is applicable to the LTC fare left unutilized during the Block Year as mentioned in the O.M. dated 12.10.2020.

3 If an employee has already exhausted the prescribed limit of leave encashment for LTC, whether he will be eligible for the scheme? Whether an employee can only avail LTC fare without claiming leave encashment

An employee can avail this scheme utilizing the applicable LTC fare without leave encashment. The expenditure should be in accordance with the ratio as prescribed for LTC fare.

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4 As per the scheme, an amount of upto 100% leave encashment and 50% of the value of deemed fare is to be paid as an advance to the employee opting for the scheme. It has also been stated that non-utilization/ under – utilization of advance is to be accounted for by the DDOs in accordance with extent provisions relating to LTC advance. If an employee spends only the advance amount and makes a claim, how this claim will be regulated?

If as per the calculation suggested in O.M. No.12(2)/2020-E.IIA dated 12th October, 2020, the reimbursable amount is less than the advance drawn, this would be treated as under- utilization. However, after calculation of the claim, balance amount, if any may be recovered from the employee.

5 Newly joined Government employees are entitled for three Home Town and one Anywhere in India in a Block of four year. How this will be regulated?

The employee may use any one of the LTC available in a Block Year.

6 As per Special LTC provisions, an employee irrespective of his eligibility can travel by Air to places like Andaman & Nicobar, J&K and North-East under anywhere in India fare. In this case what will be the deemed fare?

The deemed fare has been calculated based on the normal eligibility of an employee and the special package would not be applicable for this scheme.

7 Whether a single bill of purchase of goods or services is to be submitted or multiple bills can be submitted?

Multiple Bills are accepted. The purchase should have been done from the date of issue of the O.M. till the end of the current Financial Year. The purchase should carry a GST of 12% and above and payment should have been made to digital mode.

8 Whether there is any prescribed format for applying for this scheme.

There is no prescribed format. A simple application conveying the desire of the employee for availing the scheme, if advance is required for the purpose the same is to be mentioned.

9 What are the items which will qualify for reimbursement under this scheme?

Any goods and service which attract GST of 12% and above would qualify. The invoice with GST details should be submitted and payment should have been made through digital mode.

10 An employee having four family members eligible for LTC wants to avail this facility for less than 4 members. Further he wants to avail LTC for rest of the Members later.

As replied to query at S.No. 2, an employee can avail the scheme in partial, i.e. of the LTC of part of the eligible family. Since this is an optional scheme, if the LTC fare of

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any members of the family has not been utilized for this purpose, those members can avail LTC subject to extent instructions under LTC rules.

11 An employee incurs the expenditure on or before 31/3/2021 on the basis of invoice. Actual product or service received in April, 2021.

The reimbursement is based on production of invoice with details of GST. As far as possible, the claim should be made and settled well before 31st March, 2021 to avoid any last minute rush and resultant lapse.

12 For digital payment an employee uses credit card of his/her spouse or any family members.

It is clarified that the invoice which is being submitted for reimbursement under the scheme should be in the name of the employee who is availing the scheme.

13 Can services like interior decoration and phone bills be included?

Any service which is having a GST component of more than 12% is permissible.

14 Any limit of number of transaction? As far as possible, the number of transactions may be limited to a minimum extent to avoid any difficulty / delay.

15 Is it allowed to do purchase from e-commerce platform?

Procurement from e-commerce platform is also permissible provided the relevant invoice/details are submitted.

ANNEXURE-III

Copy of MoF & Department of Expenditure OM. No. F.No.12(2)/2020-EII(A) dated 04.11.2020

Office Memorandum

Sub: Special Cash Package equivalent in lieu of Leave Travel Concession Fare for Central Government Employees during the Block 2018-2021- Clarification reg.

***

The undersigned is directed to refer to O.M. of even number dated 12th October 2020 and the Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) issued vide O.M. of even number dated 20th October, 2020 on the subject mentioned above.

2. Ministries/Departments have raised queries/clarifications with regard to (i) whether the advance taken as per the scheme shall be settled within 30 days of disbursal of advance and (ii) whether the invoice can be in the name of spouse and/or any family member who are eligible for LTC.

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3. The Special Cash Package Scheme in lieu of one LTC is to compensate and incentivise consumption by Government Employees and the benefits can be availed up to 31.03.2021. Para 4 of O.M dated 12.10.2020 provides for advance to Government employee in lieu of LTC fare and Leave encashment. As this is a Special Cash Package Scheme the rules relating to advance taken under LTC are not applicable in the presence scheme. Accordingly, it is clarified that:

(i) the advance taken under the scheme shall be settled on or before 31st March, 2021, and

(i) the invoices of the goods and services purchased as per the scheme may be in the name of spouse or any family member who are eligible for LTC Fare.

4. This issues with the approval of Secretary (Expenditure).

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.110/2020 No. P[R]554/VIII Date: 09.11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. F(X)I-2002/11 /2 dated 05.11.2020 is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 26.12.2017 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No. 56/2018.

Copy of Board’s letter No. F(X)I-2002/11 /2 dated 05.11.2020

Sub: Revision of flat rate of licence fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation all Indian Railways w.e.f.01.07.2020- reg.

***

The flat rates of licence fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation all over Indian Railways were last revised w.e.f. 01.07.2016 vide Board’s letter of even number dated 26.12.2017. Ministry of Railways has now decided to revise the licence fee (Standard Rent) for residential accommodation all over the Indian Railways w.e.f. 01.07.2020, as shown in the Annexure-A.

2. The revised rates will be effective from 01.07.2020. Further, revised rate as on 01.07.2020 will now be the fresh base for 10% increase per year for subsequent years, in terms of Board’s letter of even number dated 08.08.2019.

3. The revision shall be valid for residential accommodations all over the Indian Railways. However, it does not apply to sub-standard accommodation.

4. Immediate action may please be taken to give effect to these orders.

*****

Annexure-A

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(Enclosure to letter No. F(X)I-2020/11/2 dated. 05.11.2020)

REVISED FLAT RATES OF LICENCE FEE FOR DIFFERENT TYPE OF RAILWAY ACCOMMODATION W.E.F. 01.07.2020

Type Slab of Plinth Area (In Square Meter)

Rates of Licence Fee w.e.f. 01.07.2016

Revised rates of Licence fee w.e.f. 01.07.2020

Rupees per month Rupees per month I Upto 25 86 100 25-30 109 130 30-35 132 160 Above 35 144 170 II Upto 45 174 210 45-50 204 240 50-55 222 260 Above 55 240 290 III Upto 60 306 360 60-65 336 400 65-70 360 430 Above 70 384 460 IV Upto 80 450 540 80-90 504 600 90-100 558 660 100-120 660 790 Above 120 840 1000 V Upto 150 1236 1470 150-200 1554 1850 200-250 2196 2610 250-300 2508 2980 300-350 3096 3680 Above 350 3720 4430

Note: (i) For servant’s quarters and garages allotted, following flat rates may be recovered as under:-

Quarters Rate of Licence fee w.e.f. 01.07.2016

Revised Rate of Licence Fee w.e.f. 01.07.2020 (rounded to nearest 10)

Servant Quarter

84 100

Garages 60 70

(vi) Rates of licence fee for Type-IV quarters will also apply to officer’s Transit flats.

*****

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PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No.111/2020 No. P[R]66/IV Date:12 .11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)II-2017/HW-1 dated 06.11.2020 [RBE No.96/2020, PC-VII/160] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 08.03.2018 and 29.09.2020 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos.50/2018 and 94/2020, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(P&A)II-2017/HW-1 dated 06.11.2020 [RBE No.96/2020]

{PC-VII/160}

Sub: Recovery of Night Duty Allowance (NDA) from Railway employees who have become ineligible to get NDA after issue of Board’s letter dated 29.09.2020 (RBE No.83/2020)

*** Please refer Board’s letter of even number dated 08.03.2018 (RBE No.36/2018) whereby the revised rates of NDA for 7th CPC period effective from 01.07.2017 were conveyed to zonal Railways. Subsequent to issue of DoP&T’s O.M. dated 13.07.2020 on Night Duty Allowance, further instructions issued vide Board’s letter dated 29.09.2020 (RBE No. 83/2020) prescribing Rs.43600/- as ceiling of Basic Pay for entitlement of NDA. Federations have represented against the decision of ceiling-limit of pay and demanded for its review. While considering Federation’s demand, Board have decided to refer the matter to DoP&T for clarification and, in the interim, recovery of NDA from Railway employees who have become ineligible for the same after issue of Board’s letter dated 29.09.2020 be deferred until further orders. 2. Railways are accordingly, advised to defer recovery against NDA until further orders.



No. P[R]554/VIII Date:18 .11.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2008 QR 1-15(PSUs) dated 12.11.2020 [RBE No.97/2020] is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 01.08.2019 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.127/2019.

Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2008 QR 1-15(PSUs) dated 12.11.2020 [RBE No.97/2020]

Sub: Retention of railway accommodation by Railway officers/staff on their deputation to Railway PSUs.

Ref: Board’s letter No.E(G)2008 QR 1-15(PSUs) dated 01.08.2019 (RBE No.121/2019)

***

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Instructions issued vide letter under reference regarding retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by officials on deputation to Railway PSUs have been reviewed.

2. Now, in exercise of the powers to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees, in all or any of the existing provisions regarding house allotment/retention, full Board, in partial modification of Board’s letter No.E(G)2008 QR 1-15(PSUs) dated 01.08.2019 (RBE No.121/2019), have decided that Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway officers/staff on deputation to DFCCIL in occupation of Railway accommodation in Delhi/NCR area shall be extended further from 1st April, 2020 to 31st March, 2022.


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Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6(Part) dated 16.11.2020 together with the corrigendum dated 17.11.2020 on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 14.08.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.75/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6(Part) dated 16.11.2020

Sub: Continuation of issuance of Manual Pass to Railway Employees.

Ref: Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6 dated 14.08.2020

***

Sir/Madam,

Please refer to Board’s letter dated 14.08.2020 (RBE No.66/2020) containing the guidelines for e-Privilege Pass/PTO Modules of Human Resources Management System (HRMS) in Indian Railways which was launched on 10.08.2020. The following crucial aspects were mentioned in the said letter.

(i) E-Pass/PTO module shall be available to serving employee of Indian Railways w.e.f. 24.08.2020.

(ii) Provision of physical passes shall also be there upto 31.10.2020 and employees who want to avail Privilege Pass/PTO in the physical form can avail the same during the period i.e. up to 31.10.2020. However, from 01.11.2020, Privilege Pass/PTO will be available only in Digital Form.

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2. However, while carrying out the implementation of the e-Privilege Pass/PTO Module, certain practical issues regarding certain categories of employees have been communicated to Board’s Office from various quarters. Further, the e-Privilege Pass/PTO Module for Pensioners has not yet been launched due to certain logistical issues and that the same would be commissioned very shortly.

3. Taking into view the concerns raised by various stakeholders, the matter has been thoroughly and comprehensively examined in Board’s Office and following decisions have been made for implementation across whole Indian Railways:

(i) Issuance of physical passes may be extended up to 31.12.2020 with the corresponding extension of time for booking across PRS counters for serving employees as per the validity of Passes.

(ii) From 1st January, 2020 onwards the system may be invariably shifted to e-Pass module in respect of serving Railway employees.

(iii) For pensioners, considering the logistical issues and considering the age factors of the end users, physical passes may continue to be issued to pensioners till 31.03.2021 with the corresponding extension of time for booking across PRS counters for pensioners as per the validity of Passes.

(iv) As far as the Audit staff is concerned the issue has already been referred to CRIS and till such time improvisation may be made to continue the issuance of physical passes to them.

4. This issues with the approval of the Competent Authority.

5. This letter has been uploaded on the website of Indian Railways at the following location: http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/railwayboard/ -> About Indian Railways ->Corporate Overview -> Directorates-> Pay Commission-> Pay Commission-VII.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HRMS/6(Part) dated 17.11.2020

CORRIGENDUM

Sub: Continuation of issuance of Manual Pass to Railway Employees.

Ref: Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HMRS/6 dated 14.08.2020

Board’s letter No.PC-VII/2020/HRMS/6(Part) dated 16.11.2020

***

Please refer to Board’s letter of even number dated 16.11.2020 wherein instructions regarding continuation of Physical passes in certain cases have been issued.

2. It is clarified that Para 3(ii) of the letter dated 16.11.2020 shall be read as under:

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“From 1st January, 2021 onwards, the system may be invariably shifted to e-Pass module in respect of serving Railway employees”

3 Other contents of the letter dated 16.11.2020 shall remain unchanged.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2017/A/TA/I dated 16.11.2020 on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 24.11.2003 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.220/2003, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2017/A/TA/I dated 16.11.2020

Sub: Payment of Transport Allowance to Railway Employees working from home for entire calendar month(s) in view of COVID-19 Pandemic.

***

References have been received in Board’s office seeking clarification from Railways on the above mentioned subject. The matter has been considered in Board’s office and it has been decided that Transport Allowance is not admissible to such employees in terms of clarification No.1 of Annexure-II issued vide Board’s letter dated 24.11.2003 (RBE No.203/2003). This provision stipulates as under:

“… if a Government servant is absent form Headquarters/place of posting for a full calendar month, he will not be entitled to any Transport Allowance during that calendar month..”

Transport allowance in respect of such employees may be regulated accordingly.

2. It has also been decided that the above will be reviewed in the light of Department of Expenditure clarification as and when received from them.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2018/MACP/1(SM) dated 24.11.2020 [RBE No.100/2020, PC-VII/161] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 25.02.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.36/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2018/MACP/1(SM) dated 24.11.2020 [RBE No.100/2020] {PC-VII/161}

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*****

Reference from Federation (NFIR and AIRF) and a few Railways have been received for ignoring the promotion/upgradation from ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) for grant of financial upgradation under MACPS to those employees who have further been absorbed in other cadres by way of selection on lateral induction or due to medical de-categorisation. The matter has been examined in consultation with Finance Directorate and it has been decided that the benefit of Board’s letter dated 25.02.2020 (RBE No.26/2020) would also be extended to such employees who have progressed to other cadres by way of lateral induction/selection or due to medical de-categorization and would be granted financial upgradation under MACPS by ignoring their promotion/financial upgradation from ASM (GP 2800) to SM (GP 4200) irrespective of their progression in other cadres.

2. The benefit of the financial upgradation in such cases would accrue form 16.02.2018 onwards, even if financial upgradation happens to become due before 16.02.2018 as a consequence of ignoring the promotion from ASM to SM.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2000 QR 1-23 dated 24.11.2020 [RBE No.99/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 01.6.2001 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.119/2001.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G)2000 QR 1-23 dated 24.11.2020 [RBE No.99/2020]

Sub: Retention of Railway quarter on transfer, deputation, retirement etc.

***

The instructions contained in Board’s letter of even number dated 01.06.2001 (RBE No.100/2001) regarding retention of Railway quarter on transfer, deputation, retirement etc. have been reviewed in Ministry of Railways and full Board have decided to partially modify provisions mentioned in para 1 (a) and para 5.1 of the above-mentioned instructions as under.

1. Permanent Transfer (a) (i) A Railway employee on transfer from one station to another which

necessitates change of residence, may be permitted to retain the railway

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accommodation at the former station of posting for a period of two months on payment of normal licence fee plus six months on payment of double licence fee.

(ii) Further extension beyond the aforesaid period may be granted on educational ground only as mentioned below:

To cover the current academic session (i.e. end of the academic/scholastic session) plus 15 days. The end of academic/scholastic session shall, in this case, mean “last paper of annual examination.

When the ward of the railway employee is studying in Class 9th or Class 11th, retention of railway accommodation may be allowed on educational ground to cover the current academic session and also the next academic session (examination) of the ward, till end of the academic/scholastic session of class 10th or 12th respectively plus 15 days.

(iii)Beyond the permitted/permissible limits, however, no further extension will be allowed on any ground whatsoever. Therefore, no request or representation on this score shall be entertained. For all occupations beyond the permitted period, immediate action should be taken to cancel the allotment, declare the occupation as unauthorised and initiate eviction proceedings, charging damage rent for the over-stay.

5. Retirement

5.1 Railway employees on retirement, including voluntary retirees and those retired compulsorily, may be permitted to retain non-earmarked Railway accommodation for a period of 4 months on payment of normal rent/flat rate of licence fee and the next 4 months on payment of special fee, i.e. double the normal rent or double the flat rate licence fee. This is also applicable to audit staff doing Railway audit work. The cases of retirement on medical invalidation grounds are also to be treated at par with normal retirement.

2. Other provisions mentioned in Board’s letter No.E(G) 2000 QR 1-23 dated 01.06.2001 (RBE No.100/2001) will remain unchanged.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2000/ RN-2/COVID-19 dated 28.11.2020 [RBE No.103/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 20.10.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.101/2020.

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Copy of Board’s letter No.E(G)2000/ RN-2/COVID-19 dated 28.11.2020 [RBE No.103/2020]

Sub: Relaxation for retention of railway accommodation in view of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Ref: Board’s letter No.E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 20.10.2020

***

Vide Board’s letter No.E(G) 2020 RN 2- COVID-19 dated 20.10.2020 instructions were issued to allow officers/staff to retain accommodation who were/are due to vacate their flats during the period from 17th March, 2020 and 30th November, 2020. Several Railways have sought clarification on whether the relaxation was in addition to the normal retention allowed and whether the period from 17th March to 30th November, 2020 should be treated as dies non. Representations have also been received from some officers expressing difficulties to vacate the quarter and shift house hold effects in view of the current situation.

2. The matter has been reviewed by the Board, and as a final one time measure, Board have decided to grant suo-moto retention for further one month i.e upto 31st December, 2020. This relaxation has to be interpreted and operated within the following conditions/guidelines: * No damage rent will be charged for this period * The relaxation is not in addition to the normal entitlement as per rule. * The period from 17th March to 31st December, 2020 is not treated as dies non. * An officer will retain accommodation after transfer or superannuation as per extant

rules at the prevailing rates of licences fees and if the data of vacation falls during the specified period, retention upto 31.12.2020 shall be allowed on the payment of licence fee as applicable to the allottee on 16.03.2020 or on the due date of vacation, whichever is earlier.

3. The extension granted upto 31st December, 2020 is final and no further relaxation shall be granted. Any officer/staff in occupation of Quarter beyond the entitled period after 1st January 2021 shall be treated as unauthorized occupant and action be taken as per the laid down rules.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2017/A/TA (E) dated 03.12.2020 [RBE

No.104/2020, PC-VII/162] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No.PC-V/2017/A/TA (E) dated 03.12.2020 [RBE No.104/2020, PC-VII/162]

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Sub: Clarification regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance during Nation- wide Lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic.

*** References/queries have been received from various Zonal Railways/PUs seeking

clarification regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance to the employees who could not attend their offices during nation-wide Lockdown period. On this matter Ministry of Finance/Department of Expenditure vide their OM No.21/3/2020-EII(B) dated 01.12.2020 have issued necessary clarification, a copy of which is forwarded herewith for information and compliance. These instructions shall apply mutatis-mutandis on the Railways also.


Copy of Ministry of Finance and Department of Expenditure OM No.21/3/2020-EII(B) dated 01.12.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Clarification regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance during Nation- wide Lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic.

*** The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s OM No.21/5/2017-E. II(B)

dated 07.07.2017 regarding grant of Transport Allowance to Central Government employees wherein conditions have been mentioned regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance.

2. Several references are being received in this Department seeking clarification regarding admissibility of Transport Allowance during nation-wide Lockdown from 23rd March to 20th April and further upto 20th May 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic, as during this period various employees could not attend their offices.

3. The matter has been considered in this Department and the following is clarified:

i. Transport Allowance is granted to Central Government employees to compensate them for the cost incurred on account of commuting between residence and office. The Central Government employees, who could not attend office in a whole calendar month during Lockdown period, are not eligible to draw Transport Allowance for that month as these employees had not incurred any expenditure for commuting office.

ii. The Central Government employees, who could not attend office and worked from home in a whole calendar month, are not eligible to draw Transport Allowance for that month as these employees had not incurred any expenditure for commuting office.

iii. Physically disabled employees and pregnant women employees who were exempted to attend office are were directed to work from home during exempted period as per instructions issued by DOP&T, are not eligible to draw Transport Allowance during exemption period as these employees have not incurred any expenditure for commuting office.

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iv. The non-entitled officers/officials, who are temporarily provided with facility of official car for commuting between office and residences throughout the whole calendar month on account of non-availability of public transport facility due to COVID-19 pandemic, are also not eligible to draw Transport Allowance.

4. This is issued with the approval of the Secretary (Expenditure). ***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 119/2020

No. P[R]481/XI Date: 07.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2018/MACP/1 (SM) dated 03.12.2020 [RBE No.105/2020, PC-VII/163] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 24.11.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.115/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2018/MACP/1 (SM) dated 03.12.2020 [RBE No.105/2020, PC-VII/163]


CORRIGENDUM

Please refer to Board’s letter of even number dated 24.11.2020 wherein RBE No. was inadvertently mentioned as 99/2020. This number may be read as ‘RBE No.100/2020’.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 120/2020 No. P[R]564/BP/IV Date: 08.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2020/SB/5 dated 01.12.2020 [RBE

No.102/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 06.08.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.72/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2020/SB/5 dated 01.12.2020 [RBE No.102/2020]

Sub: Policy of Appointment of TADK on the Railways.

***

Further to Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2008/SB/19/TADK/Pt.A dated 06.08.2020, policy of TADK on the Railways has been reviewed comprehensively.

2. In continuation of the Board’s instructions ibid, the policy for appointment of TADK will henceforth be as under-

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(i) Engagement of fresh face substitute as TADK is discontinued with effect from 06.08.2020.

(ii) Existing posts and incumbent TADKs will continue and all issues related to their service conditions and regularisation will be governed by existing policy prevalent over Zonal Railways.

(iii) As regards posts of TADK that are currently vacant: a) General Managers may review requirement/ necessity for continuing with such

posts, keeping in view operational and functional consideration. b) Such posts may be filled from substitute TADKs available in Indian Railways.

Alternatively, these posts may also be filled by regular employees, from any unit in Indian Railways, Subject to willingness of the employee and the officer concerned. The lien and seniority of above employee shall be protected in their parent cadre.

3. General Managers can make further provisions to operationalize above arrangement in their railways.

4. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/E(Sports)/5(4)/10/NIS dated 13.11.2020 on the

above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 16.06.2016 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.67/2016, respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/E(Sports)/5(4)/10/NIS dated 13.11.2020

Sub: Selection of Railway Sportspersons for Diploma Course in Sports Coaching for the Academic Session 2020-21. Ref: i) This office letter of even no. dated 07.09.2020.

ii) Board’s letter No. 2016/E(Sports)/4(3)/1/NIS dated 16.06.2016 (Copy enclosed)

*** Every year a limited number of Sportspersons are selected by Railway Sports

Promotion Board for NIS Diploma Course. The fee and other charges for the sponsored candidates are paid by the respective Railways and the period of Diploma Course is treated as ‘On Duty’. Further, in terms of Board’s letter No. 2016/E(Sports)/4(3)/1/NIS dated 16.06.2016, sportspersons who are selected by NIS but are not sponsored by the Railways, are eligible for grant of ‘Study Leave”.

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2. However, it was decided vide Board’s letter of even no. dated 07.09.2020 that in view of the on-going financial position due to COVID-19 pandemic no sportsperson would be sponsored for the above course for the academic session 2020-21; but if any Railway Sportsperson is selected for said course, he/she may pursue the course at his own cost and leave.

3. A number of representations were received from sportspersons; selected for the NIS Diploma course in the academic year 2020-21, for reconsidering the decision regarding non-sponsoring of the sportspersons for the course. While considering the representations, it has been decided by Director General (HR)/Railway Board that study leave may be granted to the selected candidates as per the extant rules.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 122/2020 No. P[R]96/III Date: 10.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2016/PS/1(Stipend) dated 09.12.2020 [RBE


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-V/2016/PS/1(Stipend) dated 09.12.2020 [RBE No.109/2020, PC-VII/164]

Sub: Payment of stipend to trainees during the lockdown period.

*** References/queries have been received from a few Railways on the issue of

payment of stipend to trainees who had joined training and been sent home during lockdown period. The issue has been examined in consultation with Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways and it has been examined in consultation with Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways and it has been decided to release the payment of withheld stipend to trainees for the period they stayed back at home, subject to a maximum period of six months, due to nation-wise Lockdown imposed to contain the spread of Covid 19 pandemic.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2020/RE-3/4 dated 09.12.2020 [RBE

No.108/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

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Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2020/RE-3/4 dated 09.12.2020 [RBE No.108/2020]

Sub: Procedure for disposing off the cases of taking voluntary retirement of Medically unfit Railways’ employees- Implementation of Section 20 of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act, 2016) – Clarification regarding.

*** In the light of Section 20 of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and the

Hon’ble Supreme Court judgement in the case of Shri Bhagwan Dass and Anr Vs Punjab State Electricity Board (2008), 1 SCC579, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Department of Personnel & Training) vide their Office Memorandum No.25012/1/2015-Estt.A-IV dated 07.09.2020 have issued clarification regarding the requests received for voluntary retirement from service (VRS) from Persons With Disabilities. A copy of the same is enclosed herewith for necessary action and compliance. The instructions/guidelines contained therein will apply mutatis mutandis on Zonal Railways also.

Copy of DOP&Ts OM No. 25012/1/2015-Estt.A-IV dated 07.09.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Request received for Voluntary retirement from service (VRS) from Persons with Disabilities- Supreme Court Order in Bhagwan Dass and Anr Vs Punjab State Electricity Board (2008), 1 SCC 579- Clarification reg.

*** The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M. of even no. dated

19.05.2015 on the above subject noted above regarding the treatment of VRS notice given by a Government servant on medical grounds or on account of disability.

2. In this regard, it is stated that the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995 (PWD Act) has been replaced by the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (RPWD Act, 2016), which came into force on 19th April, 2017. Hence, section 47 of PWD Act, 1995 as stated in DoPT’s O.M. of even no. 19.05.2015 is replaced by the provisions of section 20 of the RPWD Act, 2016. 3. Section 20 of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 provides as under: “20. (1) No Government establishment shall discriminate against any person with disability in any matter relating to employment: Provided that the appropriate Government may, having regard to the type of work carried on in any establishment, by notification and subject to such conditions, if any, exempt any establishment from the provisions of this section. (2) Every Government establishment shall provide reasonable accommodation and appropriate barrier free and conducive environment to employees with disability (3) No promotion shall be denied to a person merely on the ground of disability.

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(4) No Government establishment shall dispense with or reduce in rank, an employee who acquires a disability during his or her service.

Provided that, if an employee after acquiring disability is not suitable for the post he was holding, shall be shifted to some other post with the same pay scale and service benefits:

Provided further that if it is not possible to adjust the employee against any post, he may be kept on a supernumerary post until a suitable post is available or he attains the age of superannuation, whichever is earlier. (5) The appropriate Government may frame policies for posting and transfer of employees with disabilities.” 4. In view of the above provision of RPWD Act, 2016 and Hon’ble Supreme Court’s judgement in case of Bhagwan Dass & anr vs Punjab State Electricity Board (2008) 1 Scc 579, it is stated that whenever a Government servant seeks voluntary retirement citing medical grounds, or when the said VRS notice has been submitted due to a disability, the Administrative authorities shall examine as to whether the case is covered under Section 20 (4) of RPWD Act, 2016. In case the provisions are applicable, the Government servant shall be advised that he/she has the option of continuing in service with the same pay scale and service benefits. In case a disabled Government servant reconsiders his decision and withdraws the notice for voluntary retirement, his case shall be dealt with the aforesaid provisions of Section 20 of RPWD Act, 2016. If however, in spite of being so advised, such Government servant still wishes to take voluntary retirement, the request may be processed as per the applicable rules. 5. All the Ministries and Departments are requested to keep the above in view while processing cases of requests for voluntary retirement from disabled Government servants.


No. P[R]171/V Date: 11.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020-E(SCT)I/34/1 dated 03.12.2020 [RBE No.106/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020-E(SCT)I/34/1 dated 03.12.2020 [RBE No.106/2020]

Sub: Nomination of Liaison Officer for SCs/STs in Zonal Railways/ Production Units at the level of JA Grade Officer.

*** A copy of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of

Personnel & Training’s O.M. No.43011/153/2010-Estt. (Res.) dated 04.01.2013 regarding nomination of Liaison Officer and setting up of cell in each Ministry/Department for enforcement of orders of reservations in posts and services of the Central Government, is enclosed herewith for information/compliance and bringing to the notice of all concerned.

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It has also been decided to appoint a Liaison Officer of the Level of JA Grade Officer (Deputy Secretary) or above in each Zonal Headquarters and Divisional Headquarters. Further, SC/ST from Personnel Department may be given the task of Liaison Officer but in absence of suitable JAG or above officer from Personnel department, SC/ST officers from other department may be deputed to look after the task of Liaison Officer. Reservation Cell should consist of at least one dedicated supervisor in the Ch.OS grade and to be assisted by dedicated one multitasking staff. As regard Workshop, Extra Divisional unit, the Liaison Officer of nearest Division or Headquarters may look into the matter.

This has the approval of DG/HR.

Copy of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Personnel & Training’s O.M. No.43011/153/2010-Estt. (Res.) dated 04.01.2013

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Nomination of Liaison Officer and Setting up of Cell in each Ministry/ Department for enforcement of orders of reservations in posts and services of the Central Government.

*** The undersigned is directed to say that the instructions have been issued by the

Department of Personnel and Training from time to time for nomination of Liaison Officers, their roles, duties & responsibilities and setting up of a Special Reservation Cell in each Ministry/ Department under the direct control of the Liaison Officer for enforcement of orders of reservation in posts and services of the Central Government.

2. It is reiterated that in each Ministry/Department/Attached and Subordinate Office, the Deputy Secretary in charge of administration (or any other officer at least of the rank of Deputy Secretary) should be designated as a Liaison Officer in respect of matters relating to the representation of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Persons with Disabilities. Similarly, instructions provide for nomination of separate Liaison Officer in Ministries/ Departments in respect of matters relating to the representation of the Other Backward Classes.

3. The provisions about Liaison Officer, his role, responsibilities, control etc. and setting up of reservation cell is contained in Annexure.

4. All Ministries/ Departments are requested to bring the contents of this O.M. to the notice of all the attached and subordinate offices under their control and also ensure that the cells are set up expeditiously in the Ministry/ Department and in Attached/ Subordinate offices under administrative control of Heads of Department.

ANNEXURE

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LIAISON OFFICER:

1. The Liaison Officer is especially responsible for:

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(i) Ensuring due compliance by the subordinate appointing authorities with the orders and instructions pertaining to the reservation of vacancies in favour of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and the Persons with Disabilities/ the Other Backward Classes and other benefits admissible to them.

(ii) Ensuring timely submission of SC/ST/OBC and PwD Reports I and II by each appointment authority in the Ministry/ Department concerned and ensuring scrutiny and consolidation of the above reports in the prescribed proforma to the Department of Personnel & Training.

(iii) The Liaison officers have to endorse the non-availability of an SC/ST/OBC Officer for being associated in the DPC before actually conveying the DPC. Therefore, it will be one of the duties of the Liaison officers to acquaint themselves well in time about the dates of various DPCs which will be held in future. He should have with him a ready list of officers of various levels belonging to SC/ST of a few system Deparments/Ministries so that whenever requirement arises, an SC/ST officer of appropriate level consistent with the level of the other members of the DPC and the level of appointment for which a DPC is proposed to be convened, can always be associated as a member. Such a list may be prepared by the Liaison officers by informally consulting the administrative wing of other Ministries/Departments.

(iv) Ensuring that while making a reference to the Department of Personnel and Training and to the National Commission for Scheduled Castes/ the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes for de-reservation of reserved vacancies, full details in support of the proposal for de-reservation are given.

(v) Ensuring the extension of necessary assistance to the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes in the investigation of complaints received by the Commission, in regard to service matters and in the collection of information for their annual reports.

(vi) Conducting annual inspection of the reservation registers/rosters maintained in the Ministry/Department/Offices under the control of the Ministry/Department with a view to ensuring proper implementation of the reservation orders.

(vii) Acting as Liaison Officer between the Ministry/Department and the Department of Personnel & Training for supply of other information, answering questions and queries and clearing doubts in regard to matters covered by the reservation orders.

RESERVATION CELL:

2. Each Ministry/Department is required to set up a Special Reservation Cell within the Ministry/Department under the direct control of the Liaison Officer to assist the Liaison Officer in discharging of his duties effectively.

PRIVILEGES OF THE LIAISON OFFICER:

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3. Cases of negligence or lapse in the matter of following the reservation and other orders relating to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, the Persons with Disabilities and the Other Backward Classes coming to the light through the inspections carried out by the Liaison Officer or otherwise, should be reported/ submitted by him to the Secretary/Additional Secretary to the Government of India in the respective Ministry/ Department or to the Head of the Department in respect of offices under the Heads of Department, as the case may be. The concerned Secretary/Additional Secretary/Head of the Department shall pass necessary orders on such reports to ensure strict compliance of the reservation orders by the appointing authority concerned.

LIAISON OFFICERS IN PSUs etc.

4. Each Public Sector Undertaking, Statutory and semi Government Body, Autonomous Body/ Institution including Municipal Corporations, Co-operative Institutions, Universities, Voluntary Agencies receiving grants in aid from the Government connected with appointment and promotion of the SC/ST candidates should appoint Liaison Officer in the same manner as is existing in the Ministries/Departments.

SPAN OF CONTROL OF LIAISON OFFICER OF MINISTRIES/DEPARTMENTS:

5. The Liaison Officer of a Ministry/Department has to act as Liaison Officer in respect of the matters relating to the representation of Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes/ PWDs and OBCs in all establishments and services under the administrative control of the Ministry/ Department. The instructions issued by the Department of Public Enterprises provide that each undertaking shall have Liaison Officer with functions similar to that of the Liaison Officer in the undertaking does not, however, dilute or alter or curtail the responsibilities of the Liaison Officer of the administrative Ministry/ Department in regard to implementation of reservation policy in the Undertaking. Liaison Officers of the Ministry/ Departments have special responsibility to monitor implementation of reservation in their attached & subordinate offices, Autonomous Bodies, PSUs under the administrative control of the concerned Ministry/ Department and Voluntary Agencies which are getting substantial grant-in-aid from the Government of India. In order to ensure due compliance of the reservation orders of the Government, the Liaison Officers may periodically visit/ inspect the offices/organizations under them. They should ensure that reservation roster for SCs/STs/OBCs/PHs have been maintained properly and there is no gap in the entries made in the rosters. Liaison Officers should carry out their duties in relation to reservation by calling for the records from them and by convening the meetings of the officer of such organizations who are responsible for ensuring reservation in organizations under their control. If Liaison Officers of Ministries/Departments notice that there is flouting of reservation instructions by any officers or complaint against any officer of harassment or deliberate

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manipulating things to damage the interests of the weaker sections they should feel free to report such lapses to the Secretary/ Additional Secretary of the Ministry/ Department concerned without fear & hesitation of hierarchical disobedience.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)III/2003/PF-1/1 pt. dated 11.11.2020 [RBE


Copy of Board’s letter No. F(E)III/2003/PF-1/1 pt. dated 11.11.2020 [RBE No.110/2020]

Sub: State Railway Provident Fund- Rate of interest during the year 2020-21 (1st October, 2020- 31st December, 2020)

*** A copy of Government of India’s Resolution No.5(2)-B(PD)/2020 dated 27th

October, 2020 issued by the Ministry of Finance (Department of Economic Affairs) prescribing interest at the rate of 7.1% (Seven point one percent) w.e.f. 1st October, 2020 to 31st December, 2020 on accumulatios at the credit of the subscribers to State Railway Provident Fund, is enclosed for information and necessary action.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. 2016/E(III)/1(1)/7 dated 29.11.2020 together with its

enclosures on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters quoted therein were circulated on this railway from time to time.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2016/E(III)/1(1)/7 dated 29.11.2020

Sub: Implementation of Government’s decisions on the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission- Revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/ family pensioners etc.

*** A copy of Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DOP&PW)’s O.M. No.38/02(01)/2020-P&PW(A)(6827) dated 12.11.2020 on the above subject is enclosed for information and guidance. The DOP&PW’s O.M. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 12.12.2018 mentioned in para 16.0 of the Annexure to O.M. dated 12.11.2020 may be read as O.M. dated 21.12.2018.

2. The Railway Board’s instructions corresponding to DOP&PW’s instructions referred to in their aforesaid O.M. dated 12.11.2020 are given below:-

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Sl. No

DOP&PW’s instructions Corresponding instructions of Railway Board

1 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016

2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 10.08.2016

2 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 12.05.2017

2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 22.05.2017

3 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 06.07.2017

2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 11.07.2017

4 38/33/12-P&PW(A) dated 09.07.2019 2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 11.07.2019 5 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(iii) dated

11.09.2017 2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 24.10.2017

6 1/4/2016-P&PW(F) dated 12.10.2017 F(E)III/2008/PN1/20 dated 30.11.2017 7 4/34/2017-P&PW(D) dated 19.07.2017 PC-V/2016/A/Med/1(FMA)dated

28.7.2017 8 1/4/2017-P&PW(F) dated 02.08.2017 F(E)III/2009/PN1/6 dated 22.08.2017 9 1/4/2017-P&PW(F) dated 03.10.2017 F(E)III/2009/PN1/6 dated 08.11.2017 10 4/34/2002-P&PW(D)Vol.II dt.

23.06.2017 F(E)III/2005/PN1/23 dated 13.07.2017

11 38/49/16-P&PW(A) dated 12.02.2018 2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 06.03.2018 12 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated

22.06.2020 2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 02.07.2020

13 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 18.01.2019

2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 07.03.2019

14 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 21.12.2018

2016/F(E)III/1(1)/7 dated 26.02.2019

Copy of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare O.M. No.38/02(01)/2020-P&PW(A)(6827) dated 12.11.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Sub: Implementation of Government’s decisions on the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission- Revision of pension of pre- 2016 pensioners/ family pensioners etc.

*** The undersigned is directed to say that, in implementation of the decisions taken by the Government on the recommendations of Seventh Central Pay Commission, various orders/instructions/clarifications have been issued by this Department from time to time for revision of pension/family pension, with effect from 01.01.2016, of all pre-2016 pensioners/ family pensioners. With a view to facilities easy access and reference to all the orders/ instructions issued in this respect, these orders/ instructions have been consolidated and are enclosed as Annexure. The details of the original OMs/orders have been indicated in the consolidated instructions. These original OMs/orders are also available on the website of this Department (https://pensionersportal.gov.in).

2. It is requested that these consolidated orders/instructions may be brought to the notice of all concerned for information, guidance and necessary action.

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Annexure

Consolidated orders/instructions issued in implementation of the decisions taken by the Government on the recommendations of Seventh Central Pay Commission, for revision of pension/family pension, with effect from 01.01.2016, of pre-2016 pensioners/ family pensioners.

1.0 Applicability

1.1 These orders/instructions apply to all pensioners/family pensioners who were drawing pension/family pension before 1.1.2016 under the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972, Central Civil Services (Extraordinary Pension) Rules and the corresponding rules applicable to Railway Pensioners and pensioners of All India Services, including officers of the Indian Civil Services retired from service on or after 1.1.1973. A pensioner/family pensioner who became entitled to pension/family pension with effect from 01.01.2016 consequent on retirement/death of Government servant on 31.12.2015, would also be covered by these orders. (Separate orders have been issued in respect of employees who retired/died on or after 01.01.2016).

1.2 Separate orders have been issued by the Ministry of Defence in regard to Armed Forces pensioners/family pensioners.

1.3 These orders also do not apply to retired High Court and Supreme Court Judges and other Constitutional/Statutory Authorities whose pension etc. is governed by separate rules/ orders.

(Department of Pension & PW OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016)

2.0 Definitions

In these orders:

(a) ‘Existing pensioner’ or ‘Existing Family pensioner’ means a pensioner/family pensioner to whom these orders are applicable in terms of para 1 above.

(b) ‘Existing pension’ or ‘Existing Family pension’ means the basic pension (inclusive of commuted portion, if any) or basic family pension, as had been fixed at the time of implementation of 6th CPC recommendations, which an existing pensioner or family pensioner was entitled to.

3.0 Revision of pension/family pension by multiplying the pre-revised pension/family pension by 2.57

3.1. For existing pensioners, who have retired before 01.01.2016, the revised pension/family pension with effect from 01.01.2016 shall be determined by multiplying the pension/family pension, as had been fixed at the time of implementation of 6th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations, by 2.57. The amount of revised pension/family pension so arrived at shall be rounded off to next higher rupee.

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3.2. For this purpose, the existing pension/family pension will be the basic pension/family pension only without the element of additional pension available to the old pensioners/family pensioners of the age of 80 years and above.

3.3. Since the consolidated pension will be inclusive of commuted portion of pension, if any, the commuted portion will be deducted from the said amount while making monthly disbursements.

3.4. Where the revised pension/family pension works out to an amount less than Rs.9000/- the same shall be stepped up to Rs.9000/-. This will be regarded as pension/family pension with effect from 1.1.2016.

3.5. All Pension Disbursing Authorities including Public Sector Banks handling disbursement of pension to the Central Government pensioners are hereby authorised to pay pension/family pension to existing pensioners/family pensioners at the revised rates in terms of the above instructions without any further authorities from the concerned Accounts Officers/Head of Office etc. Wherever the age of pensioners/ family pensioner is available on the pension payment order, the additional pension/family pension may also be paid by the pension disbursing authorities immediately without any further authorisation from the concerned Account Officer/Head of Office, etc.

3.6. A suitable entry regarding the revised pension shall be recorded by the pension Disbursing Authorities in both halves of the Pension Payment Order.

(Department of Pension & PW OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW (A) (ii) date 04.08.2016)

(Further orders for revision of pension by notional pay fixation method, as in para 4.0 below, have been issued vide OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 12.05.2017)

4.0 Revision of Pension/family pension by notional pay fixation. 4.1 The 7th Central Pay Commission, in its Report, recommended two

formulations for revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners. A Resolution No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) (ii) date 04.08.2016 was issued by this Department indicating the decisions taken by the Government on the various recommendations of the 7th CPC on pensionary matters.

4.2 Based on the decisions taken by the Government on the recommendations of the 7th CPC, orders for revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners in accordance with second Formulation were issued vide this Department’s OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016. It was provided in this O.M. that the revised pension/family pension w.e.f.1.1.2016 of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners shall be determined by multiplying the pension/family pension as had been fixed at the time of implementation of the recommendations of the 6th CPC, by 2.57.

4.3 In accordance with the decision mentioned in this Department’s Resolution No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 04.08.2016. and OM. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016, the feasibility of the first

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option recommended by 7th CPC was examined by a Committee headed by Secretary, Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare.

4.4 The aforesaid Committee submitted its Report and the recommendations made by the Committee have been considered by the Government. Accordingly, it has been decided that the revised pension/family pension w.e.f.01.01.2016 in respect of all Central civil pensioners/family pensioners, including CAPF’s, who retired/died prior to 01.01.2016, may be revised by notionally fixing their pay in the pay matrix recommended by the 7th CPC in level corresponding to the pay in the pay; scale/pay band and grade pay at which they retired/died. This will be done by notional pay fixation under cash intervening Pay Commission based on the Formula for revision of pay. While fixing pay on notional basis, the pay fixation formula approved by the Government and other relevant instructions on the subject in force at the relevant time shall be strictly followed. 50% of the notional pay as on 01.01.2016 shall be the revised pension and 30% of this notional pay shall be the revised family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 as per the first Formulation. In the case of family pensioners who were entitled to family pension at enhanced rate, the revised family pension shall be 50% of the notional pay as on 01.01.2016 and shall be payable till the period up to which family pension at enhanced rate is admissible as per rules. The amount of revised pension/family pension so arrived at shall be rounded off to next higher rupee.

4.5 It has also been decided that higher of the two Formulations i.e. the pension/family pension already revised in accordance with this Department’s OM No. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016 or the revised pension/family pension as worked out in accordance with above instructions, shall be granted to pre-2016. In cases where pension/family pension being paid w.e.f. 1.1.2016 in accordance with this Department’s OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016 happens to be more than pension/family pension as worked out in accordance with the above instructions, the pension/family pension already being paid shall be treated as received pension/family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016.

4.6 Instructions were issued vide this Department’s OM No.45/86/97-P&PW(A)(iii) dated 10.02.1998 for revision of pension/family pension in respect of Government servants who retired or died before 01.01.1986, by notional fixation of their pay in the scale of pay introduced with effect from 01.01.1986. The notional pay so worked out as on 01.01.1986 was treated as average emoluments/last pay for the purpose of calculation of notional pension/family pension as on 01.01.1986. The notional pension/family pension so arrived at was further revised with effect from 01.01.1996 and was paid in accordance with the instructions issued for revision of pension /family pension of pre-1996 pensioners/family pensioners in implementation of the recommendations of the 5th Central Pay Commission.

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4.7 Accordingly, for the purpose of calculation of notional pay w.e.f. 1.1.2016 of those Government servants who retired or died before 01.01.1986, the pay scale and the notional pay as on 1.1.1986, as arrived at in terms of the instructions issued vide this Department’s OM No.45/86/97-P&PW(A) dated 10.02.1998, will be treated as the pay scale and the pay of the concerned Government servant as on 1.1.1986. In the case of those Government servants who retired or died on or after 01.01.1986 but before 1.1.2016, the actual pay and the pay scale from which they retired or died would be taken into consideration for the purpose of calculation of the notional pay as on 1.1.2016 in accordance with the above instructions.

4.8 These orders would not be applicable for the purpose of revision of pension of those pensioners who were drawing compulsory retirement pension under Rule 40 of the CCS (Pension) Rules or compassionate allowance under Rule 41 of the CCS (Pension) Rules. The pensioners in these categories would continue to be entitled to revised pension in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s OM No. No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016.

4.9 A few examples of calculation of pension/family pension in the manner prescribed above are given in Appendix 1.

4.10 No arrears on account of revision of Pension/family pension on notional fixation of pay will be admissible for the period prior to 1.1.2016. The arrears on account of revision of pension/family pension in terms of these orders would be admissible with effect from 01.01.2016. For calculation of arrears becoming due on the revision of pension/family pension on the basis of this O.M., the arrears of pension and the revised pension/family pension already paid on revision of pension/family pension in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016 shall be adjusted.

4.11 It shall be the responsibility of the Head of Department and Pay and Accounts Office attached to that office from which the Government servant has retired or was working last before his death to revise the pension/ family pension of pre-2016 pensioners/ family pensioners with effect from 01.01.2016 in accordance with these orders and to issue a revised pension payment authority. The Pension Sanctioning Authority would impress upon the concerned Head of Office for fixation of pay on notional basis at the earliest and issue revised authority at the earliest. The revised authority will be issued under the existing PPO number and would travel to the Pension Disbursing Authority through the same channel through which the original PPO had travelled.

(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 12.05.2017)

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5.0 General Instructions

5.1 The minimum pension with effect from 01.01.2016 will be Rs. 9000/- per month (excluding the element of additional pension to old pensioners). The upper ceiling on pension /family pension will be 50% and 30% respectively of the highest pay in the Government (The highest pay in the Government is Rs. 2,50,000 with effect from 01.01.2016).

5.2 The Pension/family pension as worked out in accordance with provisions of Para 3.0 and 4.0 above shall be treated as ‘Basic Pension’ with effect from 01.01.2016. The revised pension / family pension includes dearness relief sanctioned from 1.1.2016 and shall qualify for grant of Dearness Relief sanctioned therefore.

5.3 The existing instructions regarding regulation of dearness relief to employed/re-employed pensioners/family pensioners, as contained in Department of Pension & Pensioners Welfare O.M. No. 45/73/97 P&PW(G) dated 02.07.1999, as amended from time to time, shall continue to apply.

5.4 The pension of the pensioners who are drawing monthly pension from the Government on permanent absorption in public sector undertakings/autonomous bodies will also be revised in accordance with these orders.

5.5 In cases where, on permanent absorption in public sector undertakings/autonomous bodies, the terms of absorption and /or the rules permit grant of family pension under the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 or the corresponding rules applicable to Railway employees/members of All India Services, the family pension being drawn by family pensioners will be updated in accordance with these orders.

5.6 Since the consolidated pension will be inclusive of commuted portion of pension, if any, the commuted portion will be deducted from the said amount while making monthly disbursements.

5.7 The quantum of age related pension/family pension available to the old pensioners/ family pensioners shall continue to be as follows:-

Age of pensioners/ family pensioners Additional quantum of pension From 80 years to less 85 years 20% of revised basic pension/

family pension From 85 years to less 90 years 30% of revised basic pension/



family pension 100 years or more 100% of revised basic pension/

family pension

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The amount of additional pension will be shown distinctly in the pension payment order. For example, in case where a pensioners is more than 80 years of age and his/her revised pension is Rs. 10,000 pm, the pension will shown as (i). Basic pension Rs. 10,000 and (ii) Additional pension = Rs. 2,000 pm. The pension on his/her attaining the age of 85 years will be shown as (i) Basic Pension= Rs.10,000 and (ii) additional pension Rs. 3000 pm/ Dearness relief will be admissible on the additional pension available to the old pensioners also.

(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) (iii) dated 4.08.2016 and OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 12.5.2017)

6.0 Concordance Tables for revision of pension 6.1 It was provided in Department of Pension & PW’s OM NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW

(A) dated 12.05.2017) that the revision of pension will be done by notional pay fixation under each intervening Pay Commission based on the formula for revision of pay. Based on the fitment tables provided by the Department of Expenditure, concordance tables for fixation of notional pay and pension/ family pension of employees who retired/ died in various grades during the 4th, 5th and 6th Pay Commission periods have been prepared. In the case of those employees who retired/ died before 01.01.1986, these concordance tables may be used based their notional pay as on 01.01.1986, which was fixed in accordance with this Department’s OM. No. 45/86/97-P&PW(D)(iii) dated 10.02.1998.

6.2 Separate tables have been given in respect of pre-01.01.2016 pensioners who retired in the Group ‘D’ pay scales corresponding to 5th CPC grade pay of Rs. 1300/- Rs. 1400/- , Rs. 1600/- and Rs. 1650/- (Tables No. 1 to Table No.4) and for pensioners who retired during 6th CPC period after upgradation to the Grade Pay of Rs. 1800/- (Table No.5 to Table No.8). The pension/family of such pensioners/family pensioners may be revised using the appropriate Table.

6.3 These concordance tables have been prepared to facilities revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners / family pensioners by the concerned pension sanctioning authorities. Due care has been taken to prepare these concordance tables based on the fitment tables for fixation of pay from 4th to 5th, 5th to 6th and 6th to 7th Pay Commission. In case of any inconsistency in the concordance tables vis-à-vis the relevant rules/ instructions, the notional pay and pension/family pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners may be fixed in accordance with the rules/instructions applicable for fixation of pay in the intervening Pay Commission periods.

6.4 It is requested that the pension of pre-2016 pensioners/family pensioners may be revised w.e.f. 01.01.2016 in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s OM of even no dated 12.05.2017 and using the concordance tables enclosed herewith.

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(The concordance tables were circulated vide Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 06.07.2017. Due to some errors in the tables, modified Tables No.43 and 44 relating to Level 13 were circulated vide OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 13.09.2017, modified Tables No.51 and 52 relating to Level 14 were circulated vide OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 13.09.2017 and Modified Table No.29 relating to Level 9 was circulated vide OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 18.06.2020. These OMs/Tables/Modified tables are available on the website of this Department (https://pensionersportal.gov.in)

7.0 Revision of pension w.e.f. 1.1.2006 of Pre-2006 pensioners who retired from the 5th CPC scale of Rs. 6500-10500/- or equivalent pay scale in the earlier Pay Commission periods.

7.1 Instructions have been issued vide this Department’s OM of even number dated 4.1.2019 that for the purpose of revision of pension/family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2006 under para 4.2 of the O.M dated 1.9.2008, the Grade Pay of Rs, 4600/- may be considered as the corresponding Grade pay in the case of pre-2006 pensioners who retired/died in the 5th CPC scale of Rs. 6500-10500/- or equivalent pay scale in the earlier Pay Commission periods. It was also provided that the revised pension w.e.f. 1.1.2006 in terms of para 4.2 of OM dated 1.9.2008, for the pre-2006 pensioners who retired from the pay scale of Rs. 6500-10500/- in the 5th CPC or equivalent pay scales in the earlier Pay Commissions would be Rs. 8345/-.The entries at serial number 13 in the annexure of this Department’s OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 28.01.2013 were also revised accordingly.

7.2 This Department has issued concordance tables for revision of pension, w.e.f. 1.1.2006, of pre- 2016 pensioners by notional fixation of pay in the 7th CPC vide this Department’s OM dated 6.7.2017, Tables No.24 & 25 in these concordance tables indicated the revised pension/family pension based on the corresponding 6th CPC grade pay of Rs. 4200/- in respect of pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners who retired/died in the 5th CPC scale of Rs. 6500/10,500/- or equivalent pay scale in the earlier Pay Commission periods. Consequent on the decision to consider the Grade Pay of Rs 4600/- as the corresponding Grade pay in the case of pre-2006 pensioners who retired/died in the 5th CPC scale of Rs. 6500-10500/- or equivalent pay scale in the earlier Pay Commission periods and based on the fitment tables provided by Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure), Tables No. 24 & 25 are enclosed herewith (Appendix-II)

7.3 All the Ministries/Departments are requested to revise pension/family pension w.e.f. 01.01.2016 in respect of pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners who retired/died in the 5th CPC scale of Rs. 6500-10500/- or equivalent pay scale in the earlier Pay Commission periods using the concordance tables enclosed herewith. The other provisions/instructions for revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners, as contained in this Department’s OM of even number dated 12.5.2017 and 6.7.2017 will remain unchanged.

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(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 38/33/12-P&PW (A) dated 9th July, 2019)

8.0 Revision of pension of pre-2016 retired medical officers.

8.1 In the case of medical officers, the emoluments reckoned for calculation of pension include Non-practicing Allowance (NPA). The pay of the medical officers is revised in accordance with the specific provision made in the Revised Pay Rules. The manner in which the pay of the medical officer is to be revised w.e.f. 1.1.2016 is prescribed in Rule 7 of the CCS (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016. Accordingly, for the purpose of revision of pension of pre 2016 retired medical officers in accordance with this Department’s O.M. dated 12.05.2017, their pay will be notionally revised w.e.f. 1.1.2016 based on the formula for revision of pay as applicable to the medical officers in the 7th CPC as well as in the intervening Pay Commissions. NPA at the rate as applicable as on 01.01.2016 shall be added to such notional pay as on 1.1.2016 to arrive at pension/family pension of retired medical officers w.e.f.1.1.2016.

8.2 NPA to serving medical officers has been revised @ 20% of basic pay w.e.f. 1.7.2017. Accordingly, the pension/family pension of retired medical officers shall be further revised w.e.f. 1.7.2017 by adding NPA @ 20% to the notional pay as on 1.1.2016, instead of the NPA admissible as on 1.1.2016.

8.3 The revision of pension/family pension of retired medical officers in the above manner will be further subject to the condition that the notional pay as on 1.1.2016 plus NPA does not exceed the average of basic pay of the revised scale applicable to the Apex Level and the level of Cabinet Secretary.

(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 38/37/16-P&PW (A) (iii) dated 11.09.2017)

9.0 Revision of Disability Pension/Family pension under CCS (EOP) Rules of Pre-2016 disability pensioners/Family Pensioners

9.1 Orders were issued vide D/o P&PW’s OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) (iii) dated 4.08.2016 for revision of pension/family pension of pre 2016 pensioners/family pensioners, including those drawing pension/family pension under CCS(EOP) Rules. In terms of the aforesaid OM, the revised disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP) w.e.f. 01.01.2016 was required to be determined by multiplying the disability pension/family pension, as had been fixed at the time of implementation of the 6th Central Pay Commission recommendations, by 2.57.

9.2 Subsequently, vide this Departments OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW(A) dated 12th May, 2017, it was decided that the revised pension/family pension w.e.f. 01.01.2016 in respect of all Central civil pensioners/family pensioners, including CAPFs who retired /died prior to 01.01.2016 and drawing pension/family pension under CCS (Pension) Rules may be revised by notionally fixing their pay in the pay matrix recommended by 7th CPC in the level corresponding to the pay in the pay scale/pay band and grade pay at which they retired/died. This will be done by notional pay fixation under each intervening Pay Commission based on the Formula for revision of pay. While fixing pay

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on notional basis, the pay fixation formulae approved by the Government and other relevant instructions on the subject in force at the relevant time shall be strictly followed.

9.3 The question of revision of disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP) Rules by pay fixation method has been considered by the Government. It has been decided that the disability pension/family pension under CCS (EOP) Rules will also be revised by notionally fixing the pay in the pay matrix recommended by the 7th CPC in the aforesaid manner. Accordingly, disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP) Rules w.e.f.01.01.2016 will be revised in the following manner:-

1. Family Pension for Categories B & C

(a) Where the deceased Government servant was not holding a pensionable post:

40% of notional pay as on 01.01.2016 subject to a minimum of Rs. 11,700/- per month.

(b) Where the deceased Government servant was holding a pensionable post:

60% of notional pay as on 01.01.2016 subject to a minimum of Rs. 18,000/- per month.

In case where the widow dies or remarries, the children shall be paid family pension at the rates mentioned at (a) or (b) above, as applicable, and the same rate shall also apply to fatherless/motherless children. In both cases, family pension shall be paid to children for the period during which they would have been eligible for family pension under the CCS (Pension) Rules. Dependent parents/brothers/sisters etc. shall be paid family pension one-half the rate applicable to widows/fatherless or motherless children.

II. Family Pension under Categories D & E

(a) Family pension to the widow shall be equal to the notional pay as on 01.01.2016 (b) If the Government servant is not survived by his widow but is survived by

child/children only, all children together shall be eligible for family pension at the rate of 60% of the notional pay as on 01.01.2016 subject to a minimum of Rs. 18.000/-

(c) If the Government servant died as a bachelor or as a widower without children, family pension will be admissible to parents without reference to pecuniary circumstances, at the rate of 75% of the notional pay as on 01.01.2016, if both parents are alive, and at the rate of 60% if only one of them is alive.

III. Disability Pension for Categories B & C (a) Disability pension would comprise of a service element equal to 50% of the

notional pay as on 01.01.2016 plus disability element equal to 30% of the same notional pay, for 100% disability.

(b) For disability less than 100%, disability element shall be reduced proportionately subject to the provisions of Rule 8 of CCS(EOP)Rules and subject to minimum disability pension of Rs. 18.000/- per month.

IV. Disability Pension for Category D:

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(a) Disability pension would comprise of a service element equal to 50% of the notional pay as on 01.01.2016 and disability element equal in amount to normal family pension.

(b) For lower percentage of the disability, the disability pension would be proportionately lower subject to the provisions of Rule 8 of CCS(EOP)Rules and subject to minimum disability pension of Rs. 18.000/- per month.

V. Disability Pension for Cases under Category E (a) Disability pension would comprise of a service element equal to 50% of the

notional pay as on 01.01.2016 and disability element equal to the same notional pay as on 01.01.2016 for 100% disability.

(b) For lower percentage of the disability, the disability element shall be proportionately lower subject to the provisions of Rule 8 of CCS(EOP)Rules.

9.4 It has also been decided that the higher of the two formulations, i.e. the disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP) Rules already revised in accordance with this Department’s OM No. 38/37/2008-P&PW (A) (ii) dated 4.08.2016 or revised disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP)Rules worked out in accordance with above instructions, shall be granted to pre 2016 disability pensioners/family pensioners under CCS(EOP)Rules w.e.f 01.01.2016. In cases, where disability pension /family pension being paid w.e.f.01.01.2016 in accordance with this Department’s OM No. 38/37/2008-P&PW (A) (ii) dated 4.08.2016 happens to be more than the disability pension/family pension as worked out in accordance with above instructions, the disability pension/family pension already being paid shall be treated as revised disability pension/family pension under CCS(EOP)Rules with effect from 01.01.2016.

9.5 The limit of maximum pension and family pension under para 8 of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare OM dated 12.05.2017 would not be applicable for disability pension under CCS(EOP)Rules.

9.6 All other terms and conditions of OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 12th May, 2017, in so far as they are relevant in the case of disability pension and family pension under CCS(EOP)Rules would also be applicable for revision of disability pension and family pension under CCS(EOP)Rules with effect from 01.01.2016.

9.7 These orders shall apply to all pensioners/family pensioners who were drawing disability pension/family pension before 1.1.2016 under the CCS (EOP)Rules or the corresponding rules applicable to Railway pensioners and pensioners of All India Services and will also be applicable to those pensioners/family pensioners who were granted disability pension/family pension in terms of this Department’s OM No.38/41/06/-P&PW(A) dated 05.05.2009 on death/disability of Government Servant covered by the National Pension System.

(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 1/4/2016-P&PW (F) dated 12.10.2017)

10.0 Enhancement of Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) to the Central Government Pensioners residing in areas not covered under CGHS.

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10.1 At present Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) is granted to the Central Government pensioners/family pensioners residing in areas not covered under Central Government Health Scheme administered by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and corresponding health schemes administered by other Ministries/Departments for their retired employees for meeting expenditure on their day-to day medical expenses that do not require hospitalization. Orders were issued vide this Department’s O.M. No. 1/25/2008-P&PW (D) dated 19.11.2014 for enhancement of the amount of Fixed Medical Allowance from Rs. 300/- to Rs. 500/- per month w.e.f. 19.11.2014.

10.2 Consequent upon the decision taken by the Government on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission on Allowance (with modification), sanction of the President is hereby conveyed for enhancement of the amount of Fixed Medical Allowance from Rs.500/- to Rs. 1000/- per month. The other conditions for grant of Fixed Medical Allowance shall continue to be as contained in this Department’s OMs No. 45/57/97-P&PW(C) dated 19.12.1997, 24.8.1998., 30.12.1998, 18.8.1999 and OMs No. 4/25/2008-P&PW(D) dated 19.11.2014.

10.3 These orders will take effect from 01.07.2017.

(Department of Pension & PW OM NO. 4/34/2017-P&PW (D) dated 19th July, 2017)

11.0 Enhancement of Constant Attendant Allowance.

11.1 At present Constant Attendant Allowance (CAA) is Granted to pensioners who retired on disability pension under the CCS (Extraordinary Pension) Rules 1939, with 100% disability (where the individual is completely dependent on somebody else for day-to-day function). The Constant Attendant Allowance is paid in addition to the disability pension. The present rate of Constant Attendant Allowance admissible is Rs. 4500/- per month.

11.2 Consequent upon the decision taken by the Government on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission on Allowances, Government has accepted the recommendation of 7th Central Pay Commission to increase the Constant Attendant Allowance by a factor 1.5 i.e to Rs.6750/- per month. Accordingly, sanction of the president is hereby conveyed for enhancement of the amount of Constant Attendant Allowance from the existing Rs.4500/- to Rs.6750/- per month.

11.3 These orders will take effect from 01.07.2017.

11.4 The rate of Constant Attendant Allowance payable to civilian pensioners shall be increased by 25% every time the dearness allowance on the revised pay in the pay matrix increase by 50%.

(Department of Pension & PW OM No. 1/4/2017-P&PW (F) dated 2nd August, 2017 and 3rd October, 2017)

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12.0 Applicability to pensioners who had earlier drawn one time lump sum terminal benefits on absorption in public sector undertakings, etc.

12.1 Those pensioners who had earlier drawn one time lump sum terminal benefits on absorption in public sector undertakings, etc. and whose full pension has been restored in accordance with this Department’s O.M No. 4/34/2002-P&PW (D) (Vol.II) dated 23.06.2017), shall also be eligible for revision of pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 in accordance with these instructions.

(Department of Pension & PW OM No. 4/34/2002-P&PW (D) (Vol.II) dated 23.06.2017)

13.0 Revision of provisional pension sanctioned under Rule 69 of the CCS (Pension ) Rules, 1972.

13.1 Instructions were issued vide this Department’s OM of even number dated 30.11.2016 for extending the benefit of OM dated 4.8.2016 to the following categories of pensioners drawing provisional pension under Rule-69 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972.

(i) Retired before 1.1.2016 and sanctioned provisional pension under Rule-69 of the CCS (Pension) Rules on account of departmental/judicial proceedings or suspension.

(ii) Suspended before 1.1.2016 and sanction provisional pension, based on their pre-revised pay under Rule-69 of the CCS (Pension) Rules on retirement on or after 1.1.2016.

13.2 It has now been decided that provisional pension sanctioned in the above cases may be revised w.e.f. 1.1.2016 in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s OM No.38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 12th May, 2017, Higher of the two formulation i.e. OM dated 4.8.2016 or OM dated 12.5.2017 would be the revised provisional pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 in such cases.

(Department of Pension & PW OM No. 38/49/16-P&PW (A) (Vol.II) dated 12th February, 2018)

14.0 Regulation of pension and other retirement benefits of Government servants who were on Extraordinary leave/ unauthorized absence/ suspension as on 1.1.2016 and retired/ died thereafter without joining duty.

14.1 In accordance with Rule 33 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, for calculation of pension, the expression ‘emoluments’ means basic pay as defined in Rule 9(21) (a) (i) of the Fundamental Rules which a Government servant was receiving immediately before his retirement or on the date of his death. In accordance with Note 3 under this rule, if a Government servant immediately before his retirement or death while in service had been absent from duty on extraordinary leave or had, been under suspension, the period whereof does not count as service, the emoluments which he drew immediately

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before proceeding on such leave or being placed under suspension shall be the emoluments for the purpose of this rule.

14.2 Doubts have been raised in regard to the manner in which the pension and other retirement benefits of Government servants, who were on extraordinary leave/unauthorized absence/ suspension as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty, would be regulated. The matter has been examined in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure) and the following clarifications are issued.

Category of Government servant Manner in which pension and other pensionary benefits are to be regulated.

Government servant, who was on extraordinary leave/ unauthorized absence the period whereof does not count as qualifying service as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty

In accordance with Rule 33 of the CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972 the basic pay which he drew immediately before proceedings on such leave shall be the emoluments for the purpose of pension. The pension/family pension, thus calculated will be revised in the accordance with the instructions contained in the Department’s O.M. No. 38/37/16-P&PW (A) dated 12.05.2017 read with OM. No. 38/37/16-P&PW (A)(ii) dated 04.08.2016 and will be paid to the pensioner/family pensioner from the date it becomes due, for the purpose of gratuity, the emoluments shall also include Dearness Allowance (as per 6th CPC) admissible on the date of retirement / death of the Government servant.

Government servant, who was on extraordinary leave the period whereof counts as qualifying service as on 1.1.2016 and retired/died thereafter without joining duty

The pay of such Government servant will be notionally revised w.e.f. 1.1.2016 and this notionally revised basic pay will be reckoned as emoluments for the purpose of pension. For the purpose of gratuity, the emoluments shall also include Dearness Allowance {as per 7th CPC} admissible on the date of retirement/death of the Government servant. His pension/ family pension, commutation of pension and gratuity will be regulated in accordance with the instructions contained in this Department’s O.M. No. 38/37/16-P&PW (A) dated 12.5.2017 read with OM No. 38/37/16-P&PW(A)(i) dated 04.08.2016 and will be paid to the pensioner/ family pensioner from the date it becomes due.

Government servant, who was under suspension as on 1.1.2016 and retired thereafter without joining duty.

Such a Government servant, on retirement, is entitled to only provisional pension. The emoluments which he drew immediately before suspension shall be the emoluments for

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the purpose of provisional pension. This provisional pension will be revised in accordance with Department’s O.M. No. 38/49/16-P&PW (A) dated 12.02.2018. The provisional pension will be reviewed/ regularized on conclusion of the departmental/ judicial proceedings and issue of final orders thereon

(Department of Pension & PW OM No. 38/37/16-P&PW (A) dated 22.06.2020)

15.0 Non- applicability of bunching of stage in the revised pay structure for revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners by notional fixation of pay

15.1 Representations/ references have been received in this Department seeking clarification on the applicability of the OM No. 1-6/2016-IC dated 3.8.2017 of Department of Expenditure regarding bunching of stages in the revised pay structure under Central Civil Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 for the purpose of notional pay fixation and revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners and family pensioners w.e.f. 1.1.2016.

15.2 The matter has been examined in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure). It is clarified that the issue of bunching has not been provided for in the CCS ((Revised Pay) Rules, 2016. The issue of bunching has been provided for in terms of orders of that Department dated 3.8.2017 as a post-pay fixation principle in respect of serving employees. Thus, the issue of bunching is not applicable in case of pensioners who retired before 1.1.2016.


16.0 Non-applicability of provision of Department of Expenditure’s OM 1-6/2016-IC dated 7.9.2016 regarding grant of benefit of additional increment for the purpose of notional pay fixation and revision of pension.

16.1 Reference/representations have been received in this Department seeking clarification on the applicability of the OM dated 7.9.2016 for the purpose of notional pay fixation and revision of pension of pre-2016 pensioners and family pensioners w.e.f. 1.1.2016. The matter has been examined in consultation with the Ministry of Finance (Department of Expenditure). It is clarified that the benefit of additional increment has been granted to those officers who were serving as on 1.1.2016. Those who retired/died before 1.1.2016 are, therefore, not eligible for increment after retirement for the purpose of pension.


APPENDIX-I

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EXAMPLES

(Reference Para 16 of OM No. 38/37/2016-P&PW (A) dated 12th May, 2017)

S.No Description 1st Class 2nd Class 3rd Class 4th Class 1. Date of Retirement 31.12.1984 31.01.1989 30.06.1999 31.05.2015 2. Scale of Pay (or

Pay Band & G.P.) at the time of retirement

OR Notional pay scale as on 1.1.1986 for those retired before 1.1.1986

975-1660 (4th CPC Scale

3000-4500 (4th CPC Scale)

4000-6000 (5th CPC Scale)

67000-79000 (6th CPC Scale)

3. Pay on retirement OR

Notional pay scale as on 1.1.1986 for those retired before 1.1.1986

1210 4000 4800 79000

4. Pension as on 01.01.2016 before revision

4191 12600 5424 39500

5. Family Pension as on 01.01.2016 before revision

3500 7560 3500 23700

6. Family pension at enhanced rate as on 01.01.2016 before revision (if applicable)

NA NA NA 39500

7. Revised pension by multiplying pre-revised pension by 2.57

10771 32382 13940 101515

8. Revised family pension by multiplying pre-revised family pension by 2.57

9000 19430 9000 60909

9. Revised family pension at enhanced rate by multiplying pre-revised enhance family pension by 2.57

NA NA NA 101515

10. Pay fixed on notional basis on

3710 (3200-4900)

11300 (10000-

NA NA

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1.1.1996 15200) 11. Pay fixed on

notional basis on 1.1.2006

8910 (PB-1, GP- 2000)

27620 (PB-3, GP- 6600)

11330 (PB-1, GP- 2400)

NA

12. Pay fixed on notional basis on 1.1.2016

23100 (Level-3)

71800 (Level-11)

29600 (Level-4)

205100 (Level- 15)

13. Revised pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 as per first formulation.

11550 35900 14800 102550

14. Revised family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 as per first formulation.

9000 21540 9000 61530

15. Revised family pension at enhanced rate w.e.f. 1.1.2016 as per first formulation.

NA NA NA 102550

16. Revised pension payable (Higher of S.No. 7and 13)

11550 35900 14800 102550

17. Revised pension payable (Higher of S.No. 8 and 14)

9000 21540 9000 61530

18. Revised family pension at enhanced rate payable (Higher of S.No .9 and 15)

NA NA NA 102550

APPENDIX-II

Tables No.25 (Revised)

Scale of pay/Pay in the pay Band & Grade Pay at the time of retirement

From 01.10.1986 to 31.12.1995

2000-60-2300-75-3200-100-3500

From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

6500-200-10500

From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

9300-34800 GP 4600


Level-7 (44900-142400)

227

Basic Pay From 01.01.1986 to 31.12.1995

Basic Pay From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

Basic Pay From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

Pay range for pensioners retired during 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

Notional Pay as on 01.01.2016



Minimum Maximum

2000 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2060 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2120 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2180 6700 17070 17470 44900 22450 13470 2240 6900 17440 17470 44900 22450 13470 2300 7100 17810 17480 17970 46200 23100 13860 2375 7300 18180 17980 18520 47600 23800 14280 2450 7500 18550 18530 19060 49000 24500 14700 2525 7700 18930 18530 19060 49000 24500 14700 2600 7900 19300 19070 19640 50500 25250 15150 2675 8100 19670 19650 20230 52000 26000 15600 2750 8300 20040 19650 20230 52000 26000 15600 8500 20410 20240 20850 53600 26800 16080 2825 8700 20790 20240 20850 53600 26800 16080 2900 8900 21160 20860 21470 55200 27600 16560 2975 9100 21530 21480 22140 56900 28450 17070 3050 9300 21900 21480 22140 56900 28450 17070 3125 9500 22270 22150 22800 58600 29300 17580 3200 9700 22650 22150 22800 58600 29300 17580 9900 23020 22810 23500 60400 30200 18120 3300 10100 23390 22810 23500 60400 30200 18120 3400 10300 23760 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 3500 10500 24130 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 3600 10500 24130 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 3700 10500 24130 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 3800 10500 24130 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 10700 24510 24210 24940 64100 32050 19230 10900 24880 24210 24940 64100 32050 19230 11100 25250 24950 25680 66000 33000 19800 25690 26450 68000 34000 20400 26460 27230 70000 35000 21000 27240 28050 72100 36050 21630 28060 28910 74300 37150 22290 28920 29760 76500 38250 22950 29770 30660 78800 39400 23640 30670 31590 81200 40600 24960 31600 32520 83600 41800 25080

228

32530 33500 86100 43050 25830 33510 34510 88700 44350 26610 34520 35560 91400 45700 27420 35570 36610 94100 47050 28230 36620 37700 96900 48450 29070 37710 38830 99800 49900 29940 38840 40000 102800 51400 30840 40010 41200 105900 52950 31770 41210 42450 109100 54550 32730 42460 43730 112400 56200 33720 43740 45050 115800 57900 34740 45060 46420 119300 59650 35790 46430 47820 122900 61450 36870 47830 49260 126600 63300 37980 49270 50730 130400 65200 39120 50740 52250 134300 67150 40290 52260 53810 138300 69150 41490 53820 55400 142400 71200 42720

Tables No.24 (Revised)

Scale of pay/Pay in the pay Band & Grade Pay at the time of retirement

From 01.01.1986 to 31.12.1995

2000-60-2300-75-3200

From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

6500-200-10500

From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

9300-34800 GP 4600


Level-7 (44900-142400)

Basic Pay From 01.01.1986 to 31.12.1995

Basic Pay From 01.01.1996 to 31.12.2005

Basic Pay From 01.01.2006 to 31.12.2015

Pay range for Notional Pay as on 01.01.2016



Minimum

Maximum

2000 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2060 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2120 6500 16690 17470 44900 22450 13470 2180 6700 17070 17470 44900 22450 13470 2240 6900 17440 17470 44900 22450 13470

229

2300 7100 17810 17480 17970 46200 23100 13860 2375 7300 18180 17980 18520 47600 23800 14280 2450 7500 18550 18530 19060 49000 24500 14700 2525 7700 18930 18530 19060 49000 24500 14700 2600 7900 19300 19070 19640 50500 25250 15150 2675 8100 19670 19650 20230 52000 26000 15600 2750 8300 20040 19650 20230 52000 26000 15600 8500 20410 20240 20850 53600 26800 16080 2825 8700 20790 20240 20850 53600 26800 16080 2900 8900 21160 20860 21470 55200 27600 16560 2975 9100 21530 21480 22140 56900 28450 17070 3050 9300 21900 21480 22140 56900 28450 17070 3125 9500 22270 22150 22800 58600 29300 17580 3200 9700 22650 22150 22800 58600 29300 17580 3275 9900 23020 22810 23500 60400 30200 18120 3350 10100 23390 22810 23500 60400 30200 18120 10300 23760 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 3425 10500 24130 23510 24200 62200 31100 18660 10700 24510 24210 24940 64100 32050 19230 10900 24880 24210 24940 64100 32050 19230 11100 25250 24950 25680 66000 33000 19800 25690 26450 68000 34000 20400 26460 27230 70000 35000 21000 27240 28050 72100 36050 21630 28060 28910 74300 37150 22290 28920 29760 76500 38250 22950 29770 30660 78800 39400 23640 30670 31590 81200 40600 24360 31600 32520 83600 41800 25080 32530 33500 86100 43050 25830 33510 34510 88700 44350 26610 34520 35560 91400 45700 27420 35570 36610 94100 47050 28230 36620 37700 96900 48450 29070 37710 38830 99800 49900 29940 38840 40000 102800 51400 30840 40010 41200 105900 52950 31770 41210 42450 109100 54550 32730 42460 43730 112400 56200 33720 43740 45050 115800 57900 34740 45060 46420 119300 59650 35790 46430 47820 122900 61450 36870 47830 49260 126600 63300 37980 49270 50730 130400 65200 39120 50740 52250 134300 67150 40290 52260 53810 138300 69150 41490 53820 55400 142400 71200 42720

230

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 127/2020 No. P[R]563/XIII Date: 16.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2014/E(Sports)/5(2)/16/GYM dated 10.12.2020 [RBE

No.111/2020, Clarification/Corrigendum No.113] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 31.12.2010 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.09/2011.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2014/E(Sports)/5(2)/16/GYM dated 10.12.2020 [RBE No.111/2020, Clarification/Corrigendum No.113]

Sub: Delegation of power to Zonal Railway to grant additional increments to sportspersons for their sports achievements prior to 31.12.2010. Ref: Railway Board’s letter no.2010/E(Sports)/4(1)/1 (policy) dated 31.12.2010 (RBE No.189/2010)

***

Sportspersons were granted incentive increments by the Railways on the advice of Railway Board prior to 31.12.2010. power to grant additional increments to sportspersons for excellence at International and National level were delegated to Zonal Railways vide Board’s letter No. 2010/E(Sports)/4(1)/1 (policy) dated 31.12.2010.

It has come to the knowledge of Board that there are a large number of cases where additional increments which were due to the sportspersons has not been given. Director General (HR) has taken serious note of this delay and has directed that reasons for such delay may be ascertained and responsibility fixed for the same.

It has further been decided to delegate the power to Zonal Railways to grant additional increments to sportspersons for excellence at International and National level for the cases prior to 31.12.2010 also. Zonal Railways may decide the cases in consultation with their Associate Finance. It may be ensured that the schemes are implemented strictly in accordance with the policy in vouge at the time of said achievements without any violation of norms on priority basis in a time bound manner without any further delay.

Action taken in this regard may be kindly be intimated to Board.


No. P[R]500/XXVI Date: 16.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2018/AC-II/21/2/ARPAN dated 11.12.2020 [RBA No.93/2020] addressed to PFA/N.E.Railway/Gorakhpur and copied to PFAs of all Zonal Railways/PUs, together with its enclosure, on the above subject is published for

231

information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 30.01.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.18/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2018/AC-II/21/2/ARPAN dated 11.12.2020 [RBA No.93/2020]

Sub: Reckoning of Charge Allowance for pre-post-2016 cases- Customisation of ARPAN.

Ref: (1) Railway Board’s letter no. D-43/15/2019-F(E)III dated 30.01.2020

[RBE.No.14/2020] (2) WR’s letter no. PEN/05372/E789/ARPAN/Charge Allowance dated 16.3.2020.

*** Please connect NER Letter No. Admn/79/180/23/Pt.IV dated 11.12.2020 on the

above subject. Suitable clarification has already been issued by Board in this regard vide letter cited under reference (1) above. ARPAN Team/ WR has also confirmed that the relevant module in ARPAN Portal has suitably been customized to facilitate pension revision on this account. The procedure for the same has also been notified to all concerned vide WR’s letter cited under reference (2) above (copy enclosed).

Suitable instructions may kindly be issued to the concerned.

Copy of PFA/Western Railway ‘s letter No. PEN/05372/E789/ARPAN/Charge Allowance dated 16.3.2020.

Sub: Reckoning of Charge Allowance for revision of Pre-post-2016 Pension cases. Ref: Railway Board’s letter no. D-43/15/2019-F(E)III dated 30.01.2020

***

In terms of clarifications issued vide Railway Board’s above referred letter, in order to revise the Pre-2016 as well as Post-2016 pension cases as per the recommendations of 7th CPC in ARPAN Module by reckoning the element of Charge Allowance as Pay which the following procedure may be adopted respectively.

1. Revision of Pre-2016 cases:

The cases that have been revised excluding element of Charge Allowance actually drawn by the ex-employee may be re-opened and re-processed by taking into account the last pay as Basic Pay plus Charge Allowance by applying same Concordance Table as originally selected at the time of revision under 7th CPC. Considering the methodology adopted in construction of National Pay Ready Reckoner Table, the modified last pay (basic pay + charge allowance) if does not fit the prescribed pay slab/pay range in the concordance table, the basic pay provided in very next range/slab, may be reckoned as basic pay for determining the Notional pay for revision of pension/family pension w.e.f. 1.1.2016 as per 7th CPC.

2. Revision of Pre-2016 cases:

232

In terms of para 3 (iii) Bd’s letter dt. 30.01.2020 in the cases of post-2016 settled in ARPAN, since both PPO as well as Settlement dues need to be revised, the affected cases may be initiated and re-processed in ‘ARPAN- Revision Module’ by selecting ‘Change in Pay’ option and basic pay may be modified by adding component of Charge Allowance actually drawn by the railway servant at the time of retirement as per the payroll detail. The entire cycle of settlement process at all levels of USERS may be completed for successful generation of Bills (different settlement bills) as well as revised PPOs. Due care may be taken to ensure correctness of settlement bills actually payable to the retired employee. The cases where PPOs were generated in ARPAN but payment of Settlement dues was made outside ARPAN, the same methodology may be adopted to avoid undue overpayment of revised settlement dues. Further, since the ARPAN generated Bills data needs to be pushed to IPAS platform though SFTP, the 8 digit PF number may be modified in Bill txt file data at par with IPAS party master (IPAS-PF Numbers) for seamless transition of bills.

In case of any difficulty, ARPAN Team may be contacted for technical assistance.


No. P[R]75/IX Date: 17.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/F(E)II/AL1/1 dated 08.12.2020 [RBE No.107/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 07.12.2010 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.178/2010.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/F(E)II/AL1/1 dated 08.12.2020 [RBE No.107/2020]

Sub: Rates of Daily Allowance for officials tours abroad – reg.

Ref: Board’s letter no. 2010/F(E)II/AL1/1 dated 07.12.2010 and 20.01.2011. ***

In pursuance of Ministry of Finance’s directives, 25% cut imposed on per diem allowance rates in various countries/territories was withdrawn in terms of the instructions issued by Ministry of External Affairs vide their order No.Q/FD/695/3/2010 dated 21.09.2010 which were adopted in Railways vide Board’s letter No. 2010/F(E)II/AL1/1 dated 07.12.2010 applicable on Railway officials w.e.f. date of issue of Board’s letter i.e. 07.12.2010.

2. Now, in pursuance of 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations and maintenance of status quo on the rates of Daily Allowance, it has been decided by Ministry of External Affairs to continue rates of Daily Allowance for journeys on duty abroad without any change in rates of Daily Allowances mentioned in MEA’s order dated 21.09.2010, adopted in Railways vide Board’s letter dated 07.12.2010.

*****

233


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2020/I/7/5/1 dated 25.06.2020 [RBE


Copy of Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2020/I/7/5/1 dated 25.06.2020 [RBE No.46/2020, PC-VII/154]

Sub: Payment on account of discontinued allowances- regarding

*** The recommendation of 7th CPC on allowances were accepted by Government

with 34 modifications as per Ministry of Finance’s Resolution No.11-1/2016-IC dated 06.07.2017 which was also adopted by Ministry of Railways and orders regarding various allowances admissible to Indian Railway personnel were issued by Railway Board. 2. In this regard, an Office Memorandum had been issued by Ministry of Finance in accordance with Para 8.2.5 of the Report of the 7th CPC wherein it was mentioned that any allowance not mentioned in the Report (and hence not reported to the Commission), shall cease to exist immediately. This order shall apply mutatis and mutandis in Ministry of Railways also.

3. In this regard, it is advised that payment of any allowance not mentioned in 7th Central Pay Commission’s Report or Ministry of Finance’s Resolution dated 06.07.2017 shall be stopped with immediate effect and any payment that has been made inadvertently, recovery may also be made w.e.f. 01.07.2017/ date of such payment being made. Further, if any such allowance is required to be restored, a detailed self contained proposal, containing suitable functional justification along with expected financial implications may be forwarded to the concerned Directorate in Railway Board after the same being concurred by Associate Finance of the concerned Railway and approval of Competent Authority for further processing in consultation with Ministry of Finance as mandated in the resolution dated 06.07.2017.

4. This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate and approval of competent authority of Ministry of Railways.


No. P[R]227/XVII Date: 21.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(D&A) 2019/RG6-2 dated 10.04.2019 addressed to the General Manager/East Coast Railway/Bhubaneswar on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(D&A) 2019/RG6-2 dated 10.04.2019

Sub: Clarification regarding Appeal against Punishment of Termination from Training as Probationary Traffic Apprentice.

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Ref: East Coast Railway’s letter No.ECoR/pers/R/Clarif/Termination/4 dated 08.03.2019.

***

With reference to the query raised by the Railway vide their letter cited above, it is pointed out that it is incorrect to infer that RS (D&A) Rules, 1968 are not applicable to the Railway Probationers. On the contrary, if a stigma is to be attached to a probationer, it is necessary to institute an appropriate proceeding under RS (D&A) Rules, 1968 against such a probationer.

2. As far as the issue of appeal against the order of termination preferred by the probationer is concerned, it is stated without offering any views on the merits of the action taken, that since the action has been taken under Rule 301 of IREC, Vol I, the handling of appeal needs to be done under the said Rule 301 of IREC, Vol I.

*****

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 132/2020 No. P[R]227/XVII Date: 21.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/AC-II/21/3-Part (1) dated 03.12.2020 [RBA

No.92/2020] together with its enclosure on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2020/AC-II/21/3-Part (1) dated 03.12.2020 [RBA No.92/2020]

Sub: Extension of period for submission of Life Certificate till February 28, 2021.

Ref: (1) Board’s letter No. 2020/AC-II/21/3-Part (1) dated 11.09.2020 [RBA No.73/2020]

(2) DOPPW’s O.M. no.18/1/2020-P&PW(C)-6681 dated 23.11.2020. ***

Please find enclosed a copy of Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOPPW)’s Office Memorandum no. 18/1/2020-P&PW(C)-6681 dated 23.11.2020 on the above subject for compliance and guidance. The instructions contained in the said Memorandum applies mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DOPPW)’s Office Memorandum no.1/20/2020-P&PW(C) 6681 dated 11.9.2020 mentioned in the enclosed OM was adopted on Railways vide letter of even no. dated 14.9.2020 (RBA No.73/2020).

May please note and notify all concerned. May also ensure compliance.

Copy of DOP&PW’s OM. No. 18/1/2020-P&PW(H)-Vol.III-6786 dated 23.11.2020

OFFICE MEMORANDUM

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Sub: Extension of period for submission of Life Certificate by Central Government pensioners till February 28, 2021.

*** The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department’s O.M. No. 18/1/2020-

P&PW(C)-6681 dated 11th September, 2020 regarding the extension of timeline for submission of Life Certificate by Central Government pensioners from 1st November, 2020 onward, till 31st December 2020.

2. This Department has been in receipt of numerous petitions from various Pensioners’ Associations as well as individuals requesting a further extension in the date for submitting Life Certificate, in view of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the vulnerability of elderly population to Corona Virus. After consultation with the office of Controller General of Accounts, it has now been decided to further extend the existing timeline for submission of Life Certificate. This year, all Central Government pensioners may submit Life Certificate from 1st November, 2020 onward, till February 28, 2021. During this extended period, the pension will be continued to be paid by the Pension Disbursing Authorities (PDAs) uninterrupted.

3. The above measures are expected to avoid rush at branches, stagger the submission of the LCs by the elderly population while maintaining social distancing, and to that extent, prevent the spread of Corona virus. PDAs shall also ensure proper arrangements and social distancing measures at the branches and prevent overcrowding.

4. All Pension Disbursing Authorities are requested to take note of this OM for compliance and give wide publicity to the same amongst pensioners.


*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(W) 2020/PS5-2/7 dated 28.12.2020 [RBE

No.114/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letter dated 15.06.2020 quoted therein was circulated under Serial Circular No.56/2020.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(W) 2020/PS5-2/7 dated 28.12.2020 [RBE No.114/2020]

Sub: Crediting back of Passes/PTOs already drawn but could not be used even during the extended validity period. Ref: Board’s letter of even number dated 15.06.2020.

*** The requests received from All India Railwaymen’s Federation for Cancellation of

already issued Passes/PTOs without debiting the respective pass accounts, on the

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grounds of reduced scale of train services and prevailing COVID-19 situation has been examined in consultation with Commercial Dte. of Railway Board and with the approval of Competent Authority, the following decisions have been taken:-

(i) In case of Passes/PTOs of Calendar Year 2019, they were available for the use of the beneficiaries during the entire year of 2019 and also during the current Calendar Year 2020 with extended validity. Hence, crediting back the unusual Passes/PTOs, etc of 2019 is not justification and would stand lapsed.

(ii) In case of Passes/PTOs of Calendar Year 2019, already drawn but could not be used despite of making reservation even during extended validity period on account of extraordinary circumstances emerged due to COVID-19 pandemic situation and non-operation of train services in normal scale, such Passes/PTOs (i.e. Privilege Passes/PTOs, Post retirement complimentary Passes and Widow Passes) may be credited back in respective Pass Accounts subject to the following conditions.

(a) Only those unused Passes/PTOs of the Calendar Year 2020 will be allowed to be credited back on which no journey has been performed though reservation has been made and on depositing the physical Passes/PTOs to the respective Pass Issuing Authority (PIA).

(b) In case of Passes/PTOs where the benefit of “Leave Encashment” has been taken by availing the Passes/PTOs of the year 2020, but could not undertake journey due to cancellation of the train, such Passes/PTOs may be treated as availed/used and the same should not be credited back to the Pass account. PIA’s may take declaration in this regard.

2. The Zonal Railways & PUs may advise all the PIAs under their control to take necessary action accordingly.

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

***

PERSONNEL BRANCH SERIAL CIRCULAR No. 134/2020 No. P[R]288/I Date: 31.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG) II/2020/RC-4/2 (Pt.) dated 22.12.2020 [RBE

No.113/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 28.11.2019 and 10.07.2020 quoted therein were circulated under Serial Circular Nos.164/2019 and 62/2020 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG) II/2020/RC-4/2 (Pt.) dated 22.12.2020 [RBE No.113/2020]

Sub: Re-engagement of retired Railway employees in exigencies of service.

Ref: (1) Railway Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1 dated 28.11.2019 (RBE No.207/2019).

(2) Railway Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2007/RC-4/CORE/1 (Pt.) dated 10.07.2020 (RBE No.52/2020).

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***

Engagement of retired employees had been allowed on Railways vide Board’s letter 28.11.2019 referred to above. Instructions were also issued vide Board’s letter dated 10.07.2020 to review services of all such employees. 2. The matter has since been reviewed further. It has been decided that no retired employees should be re-engaged following expiry of this Scheme on 02.12.2020. These instructions do not cover only staff engaged in para-medical category which has been allowed upon 31.12.2020 vide Railway Board’s letter No.E(NG)II/2005/RC-4/SC/2 Pt.1 dated 01.07.2020.

*****


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G) 2018 RN 2-9 dated 29.12.2020 [RBE


Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G) 2018 RN 2-9 dated 29.12.2020 [RBE No.115/2020]

Sub: Retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway offices/staff posted to Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW).

*** The issue of permitting the Railway officers/staff posted at the Chittaranjan

Locomotive Works, Chittaranjan to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting has been considered by the Board.

2. The full Board in exercise of the powers vested with them to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the existing provisions regarding house allotment/retention have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting, in favour of officers/staff posted to Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, Chittaranjan be allowed for a period of (02) two years on payment of normal rent to begin with.



No. P[R]554/VIII Date: 31.12.2020

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G) 2020 QR 1-1 dated 29.12.2020 [RBE No.116/2020] on the above subject is published for information, guidance and necessary action.

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Copy of Board’s letter No. E(G) 2020 QR 1-1 dated 29.12.2020 [RBE No.116/2020

Sub: Retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting by Railway offices/staff posted to Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW).

*** The issue of permitting the Railway officers/staff posted at the Banaras

Locomotive Works, Varanasi to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting has been considered by the Board.

2. The full Board in exercise of the powers vested with them to make reasonable relaxations in public interest for a class/group of employees in all or any of the existing provisions regarding house allotment/retention have decided that permission for retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting, in favour of officers/staff posted to Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi be allowed for a period of (02) two years on payment of normal rent to begin with.


*****

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NON-SERIAL CIRCULARS ISSUED DURING THE YEAR 2020 No.P[R] 676/V Dated: 10-01-2020

DRMs/CWMs Sr.DPOs/WPOs

Sub: Forwarding of IRRT applications of staff to other Railways/ Divisions- Registration of Request transfers – Reg.

*** Attention is invited to this office letter dated 05.11.2019 wherein DRMs/CWMs were advised to exercise their powers for forwarding/accepting Inter Railway Request Transfers of staff of Divisional/Workshop controlled posts as per Model Schedule of Powers, 2018. It was made clear that the priority number given on the Division/Workshop should alone be considered for forwarding the request transfer applications to other Zones/Divisions without altering the other terms and conditions of IRRT. The cadre officers in Headquarters were also advised to return all the pending request transfer applications received from the Divisions/Units etc., to respective Divisions/Units for further process. Subsequently on the request of the both the organized labour, General Manager decided that all the IRRT applications may be registered and forwarded in the order in which they are received and the applications of only those employees who are eligible for IRRT need to be dealt with as per existing instructions of Board. GM’s decision was communicated to all DRMs/CWMs under this office letter of even No. dated 19.12.2019. Despite the above instructions it has come to notice that the Divisions/Units are not forwarding the IRRT applications according to the priority number given earlier at the Divisional level [which were forwarded to Headquarters and returned thereafter]. In some cases, the Divisions have given fresh priority numbers and relieved those employees who were lower in priority number, overlooking the senior employees who had registered earlier. It is once again reiterated that no senior employee who had registered for IRRT earlier at Division/Unit level should be overlooked while forwarding/relieving the employees. Any deviation from the above should be dealt with seriously.

This issues with the approval of the competent authority. Copy to All Cadre Officers/HQ with an advice to return all the pending IRRT applications received from the Divisions/Units to the respective Divisions/Units immediately with a detailed statement, vis-à-vis, category-wise, if not already done.

***

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No.P(R) 535/XI Dated : 11.02.2020

All Sr.DPOs/WPOs Extra Divisional Officers

Sub: Ad hoc promotions – counting of service towards minimum period of service for eligibility for promotion to safety category post.

*** Attention is invited to Board’s letter dated 31.5.1982(S.C.No.130/82) , wherein Board have decided that in the safety categories, staff will be required to put in a minimum of two years of service in each grade before promotion to the higher grade. Subsequently, Board in their letter dated 26.5.84 (S.C.No.63/84) decided that for reckoning the period of minimum service of two years in the relevant grade, continuous ad hoc service immediately preceding regular service may also be counted. Further Rule 1313[FR-22(I)(a)1] of Indian Railway Establishment Code Vol.II (SC No. 49/2019) provides fixation of pay on grant of ad hoc promotion and that in cases where an ad hoc promotion is followed by regular appointment without break , the option is admissible from the date of initial appointment or promotion, to be exercised within one month from the date of such regular appointment. Despite existence of instructions, SCRE Sangh vide Sub.No. 152/15/19 pointed out that the ad hoc service followed by regular appointment is not counted towards the minimum residency period for promotion to higher grade on some divisions. Board instructions on the subject of counting of ad hoc service towards reckoning the minimum residency period for promotion to higher grade and fixation of pay and option benefit are reiterated for adherence. This issues with the approval of CPO/Admn.

***

No. P[R] 212 Dated : 20.02.2020. ALL CONCERNED

Sub: Alteration in the recorded date of birth. …

In terms of Rule 225 of IREC Vol.I, every person, on entering railway service, shall declare his date of birth which shall not differ from any declaration expressed or implied for any public purpose before entering railway service. In the case of literate staff, the date of birth shall be entered in the record of service in the railway servant’s own handwriting. In the case of illiterate staff, the declared date of birth shall be recorded by a senior railway servant and witnessed by another railway servant. Rule 225 (4) of IREC stipulates that the date of birth as recorded as per rules shall be held to be binding and no alteration of such date shall ordinarily be permitted subsequently. In terms of Board’s letter dt. 12.10.1998 [SC No. 285/98], there should be mandatory vetting of the list of retiring staff which is to be published in the Gazette every year in the month of January.

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In order to avoid retention beyond the date of superannuation instructions were issued under this office letter of even no. dated 20.07.2016 to take the following course of action: (i) The Service Register of each employee should be verified, especially the SRs of erstwhile Group D categories, regarding the entry of date of birth. (ii) If the recorded date of birth is not altered, the signature of the employee should be obtained and attested, if not already available.

While reiterating the above instructions for strict adherence, it may be ensured

that at no point of time, the date of birth once recorded is altered by any authority without prior sanction of the PCPO.

This issues with the approval of PCPO.

***

No. P[R]/612/II Dated : 25.02.2020 PHODs/DRMs/CWMs Sr.DPOs/WPOs

Sub: Determination of seniority of Non-gazetted railway servants- Reg. …

Divisions/Units are aware that seniority of Non-gazetted railway servants is to be determined as per the provisions contained in Chapter- III of Indian Railway Establishment Manual,Vol.I. Doubts have been raised by some of the Divisions/Units as to whether departmentally selected candidates against the quotas prescribed (LDCE/GDCE) is to be assigned seniority from the date of panel or from the date of joining the working post after successful completion of prescribed training.

The existing provisions contained in Para 302 & 303 of IREM are reiterated for

compliance to prevent seniority disputes especially in cases of recruitment through a specialized agency followed by training before taking over working post.

“302. Seniority in initial recruitment grades: Unless specifically stated

otherwise, the seniority among the incumbents of a post in a grade is governed by the date of appointment to the grade. The grant of pay higher than the initial pay should not, as a rule, confer on a railway servant seniority above those who are already appointed against regular posts. In categories of posts partially filled by direct recruitment and partially by promotion, the criterion for determination of seniority should be the date of regular promotion after due process in the case of promotee and the date of joining the working post after due process in the case of direct recruit, subject to maintenance of inter-se seniority of promotee and direct recruits among themselves. When the dates of entry into a grade of promoted railway servants and direct recruits are the same they should be put in alternate positions, the promotee being senior to the direct recruits, maintaining inter-se seniority of each group”.

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Note :- (i) In case the training period of a direct recruit is curtailed in the exigencies of service, the date of joining the working post in case of such a direct recruit shall be the date he would have normally come to a working post after completion of the prescribed period of training. [No. E (NG)I-78-SR-6-42 dt.7-4-1982 ACS 132]

(ii) The provision contained in Note(i) above will also apply to the Inter Apprentices and departmentally selected candidates against the quotas prescribed in certain categories to be filled by Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (Such as 10% in the case of Traffic and Commercial Apprentices). [Authority: Railway Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/89/SR6/35, dated 23.08.1991 – ACS No.2]. 303. The seniority of candidates recruited through the Railway Recruitment Board or by any other recruiting authority should be determined as under: (a) Candidates who are sent for initial training to Training Schools will rank in seniority in the relevant grade in the order of merit obtained in the examination held at the end of the training period before being posted against working post. Those who join the subsequent courses and those who pass the examination in subsequent chances will rank junior to those who had passed the examination. In case, however, persons belonging to the same RRB panel are sent for initial training in batches due to administrative reasons and not because of reasons attributable to the candidates, the inter-se seniority will be regulated batch wise provided persons higher up in the panel of RRB not sent for training in the appropriate batch (as per seniority) due to administrative reasons shall be clubbed along with the candidates who took the training in the appropriate batch for the purpose of regulating the inter-se seniority provided such persons pass the examination at the end of the training in the first attempt”. [Authority: Rly. Board’s letter No.E(NG)I/89/SR6/32(PNM)dated 19.3.1993–ACS No.9]

This issues with the approval of competent authority.

***

No. P[R]/481/XI Dated :16.03.2020 Sr.DPOs/WPOs Sr.DFMs/WAOs Extra Divisional Officers Sub: Date of next increment under Rule 10 of Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 2016 – regarding. Ref: (1) Rly.Board’s letter No. PC-VII/2017/R-I/7 dt.18.12.2019. (2) SCR Estt.Serial Circular No.01/2020 dated 06.01.2020.

*** The Divisions/Units are aware that Rly.Board in their letter dt.18.12.2019 while issuing clarifications on the subject, have also conveyed their decision that the employees who have been regularly promoted or granted financial up-gradation on or after 1.1.2016 and desire to exercise/re-exercise option for pay fixation under FR 22 (I)

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(a) (1) shall be given an opportunity to exercise or re-exercise the option there under giving one month’s time from the date of issue of Board’s letter dt.18.12.2019. While circulating the Board’s above instructions under SCR Estt. Serial circular No. 1/2020 it was categorically mentioned that the employees may exercise option within one month from the date of issue of the serial circular dated 06.01.2020 besides placing the Board’s letter on the official website as well as intra-net on 06.01.2020 for the information of all officers/staff. It has been represented by the Organised labour (SCRMU) that the above serial circular has not been received by many a number of staff working in remote areas due to which they could not exercise their option /or could not submit option due to lack of guidance. PCPO observed that such an important issue like option for increment was not re-circulated by the Divisions/Units leading to representations. Sr.DPOs/WPOs should immediately re-circulate the Board’s instructions by 18.03.2020 to all divisional offices including sub-divisional offices, Depots, Stations, Sheds etc., if not already done and obtain a letter from the in-charges that they have informed the eligible staff working under their control regarding benefit of option and to submit their options on or before 15.04.2020 as per format enclosed. Sr.DPOs/WPOs/Extra Divisional Officers should ensure that no grievance arises on this account after this exercise. This issues with the approval of PCPO. Encl: Option format.

***

Option for fixation of pay on promotion or MACPS granted after 01.01.2016 in terms of RBE No.212/2019 (SCR Estt.SC No.01/2020)

I, Shri/Smt./Ms._______________________ , Design.______________ PF/NPS

No._____________________ was promoted to the post of ______________ /granted

financial upgradation under MACPS, vide office order No. _____________________

and assumed charge as _____________ (designation on promotion) / MACPS* on

___________ (date).

I hereby exercise my option for fixation of pay in the promotional post/granted Level of Pay on grant of MACPS, after accrual of the next increment on 1st July/1st January* (_____________) in the lower post of _______________ .

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year (*strike out which is not applicable)

Office: Signature of the employee

Date: Name:

Designation:

PF/NPS No.:

COUNTERSIGNED The above employee has submitted an application for fixation of pay on the day mentioned by him.

Office: Name:

Date : Designation:

***

No. P[R]/420/VII Dt: 09.06.2020 Sr.DPOs/SC, HYB, NED, GNT, GTL & BZA WPOs/LGDS, GTPL & TPTY Extra Divisional Officers

Sub: Maintenance of leave accounts of all staff – system improvement – reg.

*** Divisions/Units are aware that Railway Board have reiterated from time to time,

the need for proper maintenance, verification and timely updating of the leave records of all employees. Despite this, during the preventive checks conducted by Vigilance department on one of the Divisions have revealed that salaries are being drawn to employees without updating their leave accounts, resulting in overpayment of pay and other allowances.

Para 2.3 of Board’s letter dated 31.12.96 (SC No.16/97) stipulates that Branch

Officers / Personnel Officers, Supervisors and staff and Welfare Inspectors (S&WIs) should conduct frequent checks including surprise checks to ensure that the leave record maintenance is not lagging behind and is maintained up-to-date. Accounts inspections should be conducted as per extent instructions and leave records checked with the salary bills to ensure that there is no discrepancy between the absentee statements and postings in the leave records/registers.

Subsequently, Board under their letter dated 24.04.03 (SC.No.90/2003)

enumerated steps to be taken to ensure effective implementation of the instructions by

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way of computerization of leave records and reflection of leave balance in the salary slips,

In order to ensure that the leave accounts of the employees are maintained

properly, checks by Officers of Personnel Department, Accounts as well as Executive Officers should be intensified. Staff & Welfare Inspectors and Accounts Inspection teams should be entrusted with the duty of checking of leave accounts/attendance registers during their inspections. Wherever necessary, staff should be educated on the correct procedure of maintenance of leave accounts.

Besides reiterating the Board’s above instructions for strict adherence,

necessary instructions may be issued to the staff working under their control to update leave accounts of all staff including Child Care Leave (CCL) by 30.06.2020 and a certificate obtained from each dealer and supervisor that all the leave accounts of staff have been updated.

Stringent action should be taken against the staff who fails to maintain properly. This issues with the approval of the competent authority.

*** No. P(R)564/BP/IV Dt.24.06.2020 ALL CONCERNED Sub: Transfer of Bungalow Peons/TADK along with the officers going on deputation to Railway PSUs/SPVs- Terms and conditions-Reg.

*** Of late a number of requests are being received in this office for transfer of Bungalow Peon along with the officers going on deputation to PSUs/SPVs. In some cases, PSUs/SPVs are giving consent that they are willing to take the services of Bungalow Peon/TADK so long as the officer is on deputation. The matter has been examined. In the recent past, major reforms have been brought out in transport sector and Railway Board have permitted certain activities to be carried out by Railway PSUs/SPVs viz.,IRCTC, RVNL,RLDA,RCIL, RITES,CONCOR etc., for which Officers are also sent on deputation to such organizations on tenure basis. Inasmuch as these Officers are being approved to go on deputation by Railway Board on tenure basis to Railway PSUs/SPVs, such posting is to be construed as posted out within the Railway System. Therefore, if a request from such an officer is received for transfer of Bungalow Peon to PSUs/SPVs, the same may be considered, subject to the following conditions:- 1) Written consent from the respective PSU/Organisation, based on the request of the Officer and Bungalow Peon.

2) The payment of basic salary, DA and PLB to be protected, to which the TADK is entitled in Railways during temporary status and as screened employee. Additional facility can be given by the organization.

3) The FSC charges for the TADK credited to the Railways regularly for maintaining his lien on Railways as per laid down scale.

4) Monthly recovery towards NPS and other mandatory heads (from the date of grant of Temporary status) should be made by the PSU and credited to NPS account of the

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TADK duly endorsing a copy every month to the PFA and Personnel department for information.

5) In case the TADK has not attained the temporary status before joining the PSU on transfer, the competent authority shall send the proposal to this office for granting temporary status to the TADK on completion of 240 days continuous satisfactory service, one month in advance with the service record.

6) Correspondence regarding all matters to be done only through Personnel department of the Headquarters office. TADK to be relieved only for Personnel Department of SCR, Hqrs. on conclusion of his/her engagement at the PSU/Organisation under any circumstances.

7) The Disciplinary Authority of the TADK during the period working in PSU will be as laid down in Rule 16 of RS (D&A)Rules.


***

No. P(R) 227/XVII Dt.01.07.2020.

All PHODs, DRMs, CWMs & Extra Divisional Officers Sub: Recovery of over payment.

*** It has been noticed that adverse action against employees resulting in recovery of over payment etc. are resorted to, when it comes to notice of administration, without giving an opportunity to the affected person. Henceforth, any adverse action against an employee should be taken only after issuing show-cause notice to him/her, regarding the proposed action and after taking the employee’s explanation. In case response from employee is not forthcoming, a final notice may be served and action may be effected. This should be brought to the notice of all concerned over the railways.

***

No.P[R] Misc./V Dated: 10 -07-2020 All Sr.DPOs

Sub: Procedure for making references/furnishing replies to Headquarters - reg.

Ref: This office letter of even No. dated 18.12.2015.

*** Attention is invited to this office letter dated 18.12.2015 wherein it was categorically advised that all proposals emanating from the Divisions requiring the

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personal approval of the General Manager/PCPO and the references on DOP/DPG/CA-iii/MP/MLA etc., are to be thoroughly examined at Sr.DPO’s level with reference to Board’s/local instructions and remarks furnished under the signature of Sr.DPOs.

Despite the above, it is observed that, in some of the cases, the replies/remarks furnished, which are likely to be put up to the General Manager/PCPO, are either badly presented or incomplete/vague information and sometimes sent without the approval of Sr.DPOs.

Henceforth, all proposals from the Divisions requiring personal approval of General Manage`r should come with the approval of DRM. Remarks on DOP/DPG/MP/MLA, CA-iii etc., should come with personal approval of Sr.DPO/DRM as per SOP. In respect of Date of Birth alteration proposals, the proposals should have the approval of ADRM/CWM. This issues with the approval of PCPO.

*** No. P[R] 439/III Dt. 15.07.2020.

ALL CONCERNED

A copy of Railway Board’s letter No. 2018/H-1/2/9/Licenced Porters dated 3.10.2019 together with their letter dated 9.3.2019 on the above subject is forwarded herewith for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2018/H-1/2/9/Licenced Porters dated 3.10.19

Sub: Medical facilities to Licenced Sahayak (earlier designated as Licenced Porters) Ref: 1. Board’s letter of even No. dated 09.03.2019. 2. Member, Passenger Amenities Committee’s letter No. HJP/19/19 dated 06.09.2019.

*** Dr.Ajit Kumar, Member, Passenger Amenities Committee vide letter under reference (2) above addressed to the Chairman, Railway Board has informed that neither medical facilities nor medical identity card is being provided to any Licenced Sahayak as per Board’s letter cited under reference no.(1) above. In view of the above, it is advised to adhere to instructions as given in Board’s letter cited under reference no.(1) above regarding medical facilities to Licenced Sahayak (copy enclosed).

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(Sd/-) Dr.K.Sridhar, Exe.Dir/H(G)

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2018/H-1/2/9/Licenced Porter dated 9.03.19

Sub: Medical facilities to Licenced Sahayak (earlier designated as Licenced Porters). Ref: (1) Para 618 of IRMM-2000. (2) Board’s letters no. 69/TGII/1010/29/SG/R-42&43 dated 26.08.1969 & 03.03.1976. (3) Board’s letter no.TC-II/1010/24 dated 21.10.1971. (4) Board’s letter no. 66/H(FP/6)74 Part-II dated 28.05.1973. (5) Board’s letter no. 73/H/6-1/24 dated 01.10.1973. (6) Board’s letter no.95/H/6-1/17 dated 21.06.1995.

*** Provisions for providing medical facilities to certain extent to Licenced Sahayak (earlier designated as Licenced Porters) have been made from time to time. However, the issue of providing comprehensive medical facilities to them and their family members at par with Railway servants and their families as defined in Pass Rule, has been engaging attention of Ministry of Railways for some time. The matter has been examined in consultation with Finance Dte. in the Ministry of Railways. Now, in supersession of all previous instructions issued from time to time, it has been decided with the approval of the President that:

(a) Medical facilities to Licenced Sahayaks and their family members shall be extended at par with Railway employees and family members as defined in Railway Medical Rules at the Railway Hospitals/Railway Health Units where Licenced Sahayak is presently working including for referral to other Railway Health Units/Railway Hospitals but not to private hospitals empaneled with Railways. However, those Licenced Sahayaks who are registered with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna will get medical facilities in Railway Hospitals/Railway Health Units and Railways will raise debit to Ayushman Department (National Health Agency). Those Licenced Sahayaks who are not registered with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna will continue to get Health benefits as mentioned abobve. (b) Detailed modalities and guidelines alongwith Advance Correction Slip to Para 601 & 618 of IRMM-2000 will follow. This issues with the concurrence of Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

*** No.P[R] 535/XI Dated:16-07-2020 ALL CONCERNED Sub: Filling up the ex-cadre posts in various departments- Cooling

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off period from one ex-cadre post to another. …

As per extant instructions, the staff working in ex-cadre posts should be repatriated to cadre posts after their tenure period is over and they should be considered for transfer to ex-cadre posts after working for a period of one year in their substantive cadre posts. Para 8.1 of DOP&T’s OM dated 18.5.2018 adopted by Railway Board vide RBE No. 97/2018 dated 26.06.2018(SCR S.C.No.128/18) envisage that the period of deputation/foreign service shall be as per the Recruitment Rules of the ex-cadre post or 5 years in case no tenure regulations exist for such ex-cadre post. It is clarified that an employee seeking deputation to any other Organization which is not in her/his normal channel of promotion is to be treated as ex-cadre post. Representations are being received from the employees working on an ex-cadre post, for posting on another ex-cadre post, as per above para, in relaxation of the necessary working for at least for a period of one year in their substantive cadre posts. The matter regarding cooling off period between one ex-cadre post and another ex-cadre has been reviewed. Wherever in exigency of services it is felt necessary to allow a person to proceed from one ex-cadre post to another, approval of GM shall be required. This issues with the approval of the General Manager.

***

No. P[R] 212 Date : 21.07.2020. ALL CONCERNED Sub: Alteration in the recorded date of birth.

*** In terms of Rule 225 of IREC Vol.I, every person, on entering railway service, shall declare his/her date of birth which shall not differ from any declaration expressed or implied for any public purpose before entering railway service. In the case of literate staff, the date of birth shall be entered in the record of service in the railway servant’s own handwriting. In the case of illiterate staff, the declared date of birth shall be recorded by a senior railway servant and witnessed by another railway servant. Rule 225(2) of IREC stipulates that where a person who is not able to declare his age should not be appointed to railway service. Railway Ministry’s decision below Rule 225 of IREC stipulates that when a candidate declares his date of birth he should produce documentary evidence such as a Matriculation Certificate or a Municipal birth certificate, if he is not able to produce such an evidence should be asked to produce any other authenticated documentary evidence viz., school leaving certificate, Baptismal certificate in original or some other reliable document. Instructions also exist that the source/basis on which the date of birth has been recorded in the Service Records of the employee at the time of entering service may be written below the date of birth.

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Rule 225 (4) of IREC envisages that the date of birth as recorded as per rules shall be held to be binding and no alteration of such date shall ordinarily be permitted subsequently. It shall however, be open to the PCPO to cause the date of birth to be altered

(i) Where, in the case of illiterate staff, the PCPO is satisfied that a clerical error has occurred, or

(ii) Where a satisfactory explanation (which should not be entertained after completion of the probation period, or three years’ service whichever is earlier) of the circumstances in which the wrong date came to be entered is furnished by the railway servant concerned, together with the statement of any previous attempts made to have the record amended. Despite the above codal provisions on recording the date of birth, references are being received few days before the employee’s retirement seeking post-facto approval of PCPO for alteration of recorded date of birth.

While reiterating the above codal provisions/instructions issued from time to time on the subject, for strict adherence, it may be ensured that at no point of time, the date of birth once recorded is altered by any authority without prior sanction of the PCPO.


***

No. P[R]605/XIV Dated:23-07-2020 All Sr.DPOs/WPOs Extra Divisional Officers

Sub:- Conducting of written examination as part of selection/ recruitment.

*** Attention is invited to this office letter No. SCR/P-HQ/263(a)/Con/Sys.Imp dated

7.11.2016 wherein while issuing the procedure to be followed regarding conduct of departmental selections, duties of Paper setting/Evaluating Officer and the duties of Invigilators were also circulated for implementation. In the above letter, among the duties of the Invigilators, it was made clear that the seal of the bundle containing the question papers should be opened in the presence of two candidates taking the examination and obtain their signatures on the cover(s) in token of having opened it in their presence.

Despite these instructions, it has been pointed out by the vigilance department that sealed question paper packet was opened without obtaining signatures of the candidates and only name and roll number of the candidate were recorded on question papers packet. Vigilance department also pointed out that the number of unused booklets with the invigilator does not tally with the candidates absent in the room.

While reiterating the existing instructions on the subject for strict adherence, it should also be ensured that the unused booklets should be returned immediately after

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the stipulated time is over, by the Invigilator of the room to the Officer in-charge of the centre together with the absentee statement. This issues with the approval of the competent authority.

***

No.P[R]605/XIV Dated: 24-07-2020 All PHODs DRMs/CWMs, Ex-tra Divisional Officers Sub: Personal hearing in DAR cases during COVID-19 pandemic.

*** In terms of Rule 24(1) of RS(D&A) Rules,1968 , where the penalty of dismissal,

removal, compulsory retirement, reduction or withholding of increment has been imposed, the appellate authority may, at its discretion and if it considers it necessary, give the non-gazetted Railway servant a personal hearing before disposing of the appeal. At this personal hearing, the railway servant may be accompanied if he so chooses, by another railway servant or an official (who is not a legal practitioner) of a recognized Railway Trade Union on which the appellant was/is employed.

In order to contain the spread of COVID-19, preventive measures together with the protocols in Annexure-I were circulated under this office letter No.SCR/P-HQ/478/COVID-19 dated 5.6.2020. Para 2 of Annexure-I to this office letter stipulates that all discussions/consultation in office be made to the extent possible through telephone or other electronic gadgets instead of physical interaction in officer’s chamber or in the cell/branch. If requirement arises for physical appearance, proper physical distancing of at least one meter be maintained. Further, as per para 6 of Department of Health and Family Welfare’s OM No. Z28015/17/2020-Estt.I dated 3.6.2020, no meeting/conference is to be conducted physically and meetings may be organized through video conference only. In the present scenario of barest minimum physical presence in discussions, meetings etc., the need for allowing personal hearing in the DAR cases through electronic gadgets has been reviewed. It is now decided that wherever the personal hearing is granted in DAR cases by the Appellate/Revising authorities, they may indicate the Date/time and Phone No. to be contacted in the letter being issued to the employee instead of asking the employee for physical appearance in personal hearing. These instructions will hold good until the preventive measures and protocols to contain the spread of COVID-19 are in force. This issues with the approval of PCPO.

***

No.P[R]676/V Dated: 30-07-2020 All CONCERNED

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Sub: Cancellation of Periodical Transfers of the staff. Ref: This office letter of even No. dated 15.05.2020.

*** Railway Board vide their letter No. E(NG)I-2020/TR/2 dated 12.05.2020, have

decided that unimplemented periodical transfer orders of the staff working on sensitive posts be reviewed and pended till 31st July, 2020, taking into account the extraordinary situation created by the pandemic COVID-19. These instructions have been communicated to all concerned vide this office letter cited under reference.

Now, it is decided that the periodical transfers pended till 31.07.2020 may be

extended till 31.08.2020 in view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the States of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh etc.

***

No. P[R] 481/XI Dt.13.08.2020 Sr.DPOs/WPOs Extra Divisional Officers Sub: Cases of promotion taking place in the pre-revised pay structure Between 1.1.2006 and the date of notification of RS(RP) Rules, 2008 and the subsequent merger of the pre-revised pay scales of the promotional and the feeder posts in a common grade – fixation of pay – regarding.

*** Divisions/Units are aware that Railway Board in their RBE No. 33/2016 (SC No.35/2016) decided that in cases where promotion(s) took place in the pre-revised pay structure including erstwhile Group ‘D’ grades during the period between 1.1.2006 and the date of notification of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008 (cut-off date is 4.9.2008 as per SC No.3/2018) when the pre-revised and revised pay scales were different and the posts carried the character of feeder and promotional grades, pay fixation on such promotion shall be allowed under Rule 13 of the CCS(RP) Rules, 2008, subject to the following conditions:- (i) The promotion had taken place between 1.1.2006 and the date of notification of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008 as per the Recruitment Rules then in vogue, which clearly provided for such posts being promotional grade for the feeder grade from where the promotion took place and where the posts were subsequently merged in a single post/grade consequent upon promulgation of the CCS(RP) Rules, 2008. (ii) FR 22 I(a)(1), which was applicable for fixation of pay on promotion before promulgation of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008, was invoked for fixation of pay in these cases in the pre-revised structure during the period between 1.1.2006 and the date of notification of the CCS(RP) Rules, 2008. (iii) The concerned employees had opted to come over to the revised pay structure from a date occurring prior to the date of notification of CCS(RP) Rules, 2008.

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(iv) The concerned Recruitment Rules have been amended subsequently to provide for merger of these grades into a single grade/post.

It is presumed that all the Divisions/Workshops/Units have allowed the benefit of fixation of pay to the eligible employees including erstwhile Group ‘D’ grades whose promotion took place between 1.1.2006 and 4.9.2008. It was however pointed out in the PNM by SCRE Sangh that there are cases on the Divisions where benefit of fixation is yet to be allowed and requested to issue instructions. Divisions/Workshops/Units are advised to review the cases and benefit of fixation of pay allowed to all eligible employees whose promotion took place between 1.1.2006 and 4.9.2008 in pre-revised scales including erstwhile Group ‘D’ grades, immediately, if not already done.

***

No. P[R] 676/V Dt.31.08.2020.

ALL CONCERNED

A copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2020/TR/8 dated 18.08.2020 [RBE No. 67/2020] on the above subject is forwarded herewith for information, guidance and necessary action. Board’s letters dated 27.09.89, 02.05.95, 21.05.02, 13.09.02, 28.03.05 and 23.02.06 quoted therein were circulated as SC Nos. 212/39, 70/95, 108/02, 195/02, 61/05 and 35/06 respectively.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(NG)I-2020/TR/8 dated 18.08.2020 [RBE No. 67/2020] Sub: Periodical Transfer of Railway employees – List of sensitive posts. Ref: Railway Ministry’s letters Nos:

(i) E(NG)I-87/TR/34/NFIR/JCM/DC dt.27.09.1989 (ii) E(NG)I-94/TR/29 dt.02.05.1995

(iii) E(NG)I-2001/TR/22 dt.21.05.2002 (iv) E(NG)I-2002/TR/19 dt.13.09.2002 (v) E(NG)I-94/TR/29 dt.28.03.2005 (vi) E(NG)I-2002/TR/19 dt.23.02.2006

A comprehensive list of sensitive posts for the purpose of periodical transfer after every four years has been circulated by the Ministry of Railways under their letter No. E(NG)I-87/TR/34/NFIR/JCM/DC dated 27.09.1989 as modified/amplified from time to time vide letters referred to above. 2. The Ministry of Railways has since decided that the posts of Health and Malaria Inspector designated as “Food Safety Officer” should also be included in the list of sensitive posts for the purpose of periodical transfer in Medical Department as per addition in the Annexure to Board’s letter dated 27.09.1989 as follows: E. Medical Department Add the following as Sl.No.7:

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“7. Health and Malaria Inspector designated as “Food Safety Officer”. ***

No. P(R) 605/XIV Dt.31.08.2020.

All concerned

Sub: Applicability of ‘Best amongst the Failure Scheme’ in LDCE Exam. ***

A copy of Board’s letter No. 2018-E(SCT)I/25/16 dated 17.08.2020 together with its enclosure on the above subject is forwarded herewith for information, guidance and necessary action. Board have clarified that promotions through LDCE are purely on the basis of merit and there is already a provision of 10% relaxation in qualifying standard for SCs/STs for filling reserved vacancies, policy of ‘Best Amongst the failures scheme’ in promotion to Group D to Group C through LDCE will not apply.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2018-E(SCT)I/25/16 dated 17.08.2020 Sub: Applicability of ‘Best amongst the Failure Scheme’ in LDCE Exam. Ref: Diesel Locomotive Works’ letter No. GM(P)/CC/LDCE/OS/30/2018 dated 10.10.2018.

=== Kindly refer to your above mentioned letter on the above subject. In this regard, attention is invited to clarification issued by Railway Board vide letter No. 2007-E(SCT)I/25/7 dated 15.03.2010 (copy enclosed) to North Eastern Railway (NER) regarding application of Best among the failure scheme in promotions from Group ‘D’ to Group ‘C’ through LDCE under 16-2/3% quota, is as under: “The issue regarding application of Best among the failure scheme in promotion through LDCE has been examined in the light of existing instructions on the relevant policy. Since the promotions through LDCE are purely on the basis of merit and there is already a provision of 10% relaxation in qualifying standard for SCs/STs for filling up reserved vacancies, policy of Best Amongst the failures scheme in promotions from Group ‘D’ to Group ‘C’ through LDCE under 16-2/3% will not apply”. Hence, it has been inferred that since the promotions through LDCE are purely on the basis of merit and there is already a provision of relaxation in qualifying standard for SCs/STs for filling up reserved vacancies, policy of Best Amongst the failures scheme in promotions through LDCE will not be applicable.

Copy of Board’s letter No. 2007-E(SCT)I/25/7 dated 15.03.2010.

Sub: Clarification regarding application of Best among the failure scheme in Promotions from Group ‘D’ to Group ‘C’ through LDCE under 16-2/3% quota. Ref: N.E.Railway’s letter No. E/227/2/Part-X/IV dated 17.08.2007 and 22.12.2009.

.....

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Please refer to your office letter quoted above seeking clarification on the subject matter. The issue regarding application of Best among the failure scheme in promotions through LDCE has been examined in the light of existing instructions on the relevant policy. Since the promotions through LDCE are purely on the basis of merit and there is already a provision of 10% relaxation in qualifying standard for SCs/STs for filling up reserved vacancies, policy of Best Amongst the failures scheme in promotions from Group ‘D’ to Group ‘C’ through LDCE under 16-2/3% will not apply. Necessary action may be taken accordingly.

*** No. P[R] 227/XVII Dt.01.09.2020

A copy of Board’s letter No. E(D&A) 2008 RG 6-29 dated 05.08.2020 on the above subject is forwarded herewith for information, guidance and necessary action.

Copy of Board’s letter No. E(D&A) 2008 RG 6-29 dated 05.08.2020

Sub: Submission of disciplinary cases of Non-Gazetted Railway Servants – Modification in procedure of Single Window System.

*** Please refer to this Office letter of even No. dated 23.12.2014 regarding submission of disciplinary cases of Non-Gazetted Railway Servants to this office wherein detailed procedure for submitting cases through Single Window System was prescribed. 2. However, in view of spread of Covid-19 pandemic, conforming to the above instructions has become difficult keeping in view the safety of all concerned. As it has become imperative to follow certain preventive measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing of masks, proper sanitization, avoiding large congregations, protecting vulnerable persons etc., and follow all guidelines related to Covid-19 issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, therefore, it has been decided to modify the above instructions dated 23.12.2014 as under: (i) When the CPO is satisfied that the case is complete in all respects, the entire case file should be got scanned and saved as pdf format. For easy identification and retrieval, the scanning of documents may be done in separate files and named accordingly, viz., (i) Detailed Note (in Word file) containing complete history & facts of the case arranged chronologically; (ii) Checklist; (iii) Chargesheet; (iv) RUDs; (v) Inquiry proceedings; (vi) PO & CO’s brief (vii) IO Report; (viii) Serving of IO Report & representation of CO; (ix) DA/AA’s Orders/views etc. (x) Notings; & (xi) any other documents, viz. vigilance investigation reports, leave records, APARs, Service Book, etc. which are not covered above. (ii) The subject of the mail may be mentioned as name of CO & followed by name of zonal railways in Bracket and the above pdf files may be attached with the file. Only official e-mails account may be used for such transmission. The hard file would only be sent to this after the Railways receives a confirmation as per para 3 below.

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(iii) Railway may ensure before mailing the case to this office that all the documents are original, and if the same is not feasible, authenticated photocopy complete in all respect are available in the DAR case file. 3. The cases in pdf files received from the zonal Railways/Production Units etc. would be scrutinized in terms of information provided in the check list. For such cases which are, prima-facie, complete as per the check list, a confirmation via the same E-mail would be sent stating so, and requesting the Railway for sending the case papers by post. However, for those cases where some deficiency is pointed out or some clarification is sought, the same would be replied through the same E-mail and Railway also reply through Email. 4. Further, keeping in view the limited man-power available in Board’s office also, it has been decided that a maximum of 3 cases per month per railway, may be sent through this mode and priority should be given to cases which involve Court’s directions prescribing specify time limit or cases becoming of barred by limitation. 5. While referring the cases Railway may kindly ensure that: (i) If it is a proposal for pension cut, adequate justification based on evidence be specifically spelt out in the Detailed Note [Para 2(i) (i) above] by the Disciplinary Authority as to how the proved guilt is constitutive of “grave misconduct or negligence” warranting invocation of Rule 9(1) of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 by the President. (ii) If it is a case of review under Rule 25A of the Railway Servants (D&A) Rules, 1968, the details of the “new material or evidence” as required under the aforesaid Rule 25A must be clearly provided. (iii) If it is a case of petition to the President, Railways must ensure that the case does not fall in the categories mentioned in para 6 of the Appendix –II of IREC Vol.I. 6. To enhance co-ordination with the Railway so as to expedite the cases, it is desired that each railway/PU may nominate a Sr.Officer at Headquarters who would function as Single Window System of the concerned Railway for all queries/ clarification in these disciplinary cases. The details of such nominated Officer along with his mobile No. and Email may be to the below mentioned Email ID of this Office. 7. The scanned files as above may be sent on the E-mail ID (i) [email protected] for references relating to Chargesheet and Court Cases; and (ii) [email protected] for all other cases. Any clarification in this regard may be sought on Telephone Nos.011 23303959, 030-43959 (Rly.), 011-23047036 and 011-23047036 (P&T) on any working day. These instructions are “On Trail Basis” applicable till further order.

*** No. P[R] 359/V Dt. 08.09.2020

Sr.DPOs/WPOs Extra Divisional Officers

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Sub: Grant of annual increment to the employees who were absent on 1st July, 2020 due to reasons of COVID-19 i.e., self-isolation/quarantine/ tested COVID positive.

*** Attention is invited to this office letter No. SCR/P-HQ/478/COVID-19 dated 15.07.2020 wherein it was advised that where an employee is found COVID positive, his/her absence should be treated as leave due and granted on medical advice. It was also indicated in the above letter where the employee had direct/indirect contact with COVID-19 positive patients and if any request is made for self-quarantine as a precautionary measure, may be sanctioned leave subject to further instructions, if any received from Board. Para 606(a) of IREM stipulates that an employee on leave draws leave salary and not duty pay. So, an increment accruing while on leave cannot be drawn during leave. It will be drawn from the date of resumption of duty on return from leave. Para 2.1 of MC No.10 stipulates that like casual leave, special casual leave is not a recognized leave or subject to any rule under the Leave rules applicable to the railway employees. In other words, a railway servant on Casual Leave/Special Casual Leave is technically not treated as absent from duty and his pay is not intermitted. Now, Railway Board vide letter No. E(G)2020/LE 2/1 dated 03.09.2020 (copy enclosed) have decided to regularize the absence during COVID-19 epidemic as an interim relief/ measure till further clarifications is received from DoP&T. Such of those employees who remained absent on 01.07.2020 due to reasons of COVID-19 i.e., self-isolation/quarantine/tested COVID positive and treated as SCL in terms of Board’s letter dated 03.09.2020, may be allowed annual increment on 1st July, 2020, provided they are otherwise eligible. Employees who were absent/sanctioned LAP/LHAP on 01.07.2020 for other than the reasons of COVID-19 may be allowed annual increment only from the date of resumption of duty on return from leave in terms of Para 606(a) of IREM, supra. This issues with the approval of PCPO.

***

Copy of Railway Board’s letter No. E(G) 2020/LE 2/1 dated 03.09.2020

Sub: Interim Procedure Order on regularization of absence during COVID- 19 epidemic lockdown period.

*** DOP&T has issued a clarification vide their letter No. 14029/5/2019-Estt. (L) (Pt.2) dated 28.07.2020 on regularization of absence during COVID-19 epidemic lockdown period for Central Government employees who proceeded on leave with station leave permission but could not report for duty due to non-availability of public transport/flights and restrictions on inter/intra state movement of persons as per Ministry of Home Affair’s Orders from time to time, to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the country. A copy of this letter has been circulated to Zonal Railways for compliance vide Board’s letter No. E(G) 2020/LE 2/1 dated 06.08.2020.

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It has been noticed that different Zonal Railways are following/adopting different procedure for regularization of absence of Railway employees during COVID-19 epidemic lockdown. In view of this, it has been decided to adopt a uniform interim procedure order over Indian Railways, with a view to maintain and update leave records as per extant procedure. Therefore, it has been decided to regularize the absence during COVID-19 epidemic lockdown period as per following measures for only those situations in which have not been covered under the above mentioned DOP&T’s letter dated 28/07/2020 as an interim relief/measure till further clarification is received from DOP&T.

S.No. Situations The period of absence to be treated as

1 An employee remained in HQ but could not attend office due to lockdown, disruption of public transport or being in containment zone.

Duty.

2 An employee was asked to remain in quarantine on return from outstation duty.

Special Casual Leave (SCL)

3 An employee remained in quarantine due to Central/State Govt. instructions.


4 An employee was advised by Railway Medical Authority to remain in quarantine.


5 An employee who chose to remain in quarantine as a precaution.


6 An employee who worked from Home due to co-morbidity or underlying medical conditions as per Central/State Govt. instructions.

Duty only after permission of cadre controlling authority. Otherwise leave as per normal rule.

7 An employee who was in HQ but did not turn up for duty on being called.

Absent, the period & pay may be decided as per normal rules.

8 An employee has left the headquarters without permission and later informed the office that he/she is not able to reach back to office due to lockdown.


9 An employee stayed at home as a precautionary measure and later found to be COVID-19 positive.


10 An employee who has refused to attend office and insisted on working from home, despite his/her name is figuring in the roster and no underlying medical conditions.

Duty only after permission of cadre controlling authority. Otherwise treat the period as absent/Leave as per normal rules.

Regularization of the above mentioned leave will require the counter signature of at least JAG level officer. The ceiling of maximum Special Casual Leave may be limited to 30 days.

This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of Railway Board.

***

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No. P[R] 605/XIV Dt. 21.09.2020

DRMs/CWMs Extra Divisional Officers Sub: System improvement – Departmental selections.

*** Attention is invited to Board’s RBE No.196/2018 (SC No.212/2018) introducing 100% objective paper for promotional examination with negative marking for incorrect answers. One third of the marks allotted for each question is to be deducted for wrong answers. Subsequently, Railway Board in their RBE No. 194/2019 (SC No.159/2019) have decided that there will be no negative marking in selections against departmental quota where panel is arranged in the order of seniority from those qualified. Concept of negative marking @1/3rd mark for a wrong answer is to be followed for selections including LDCE/GDCE where panel is arranged in the order of merit from those qualified. During preventive checks conducted on a division by Vigilance Department, it has been pointed out that negative marks were not deducted for multiple bubbling by the candidates in the OMR scripts and suggested that multiple bubbling by the candidates in OMR scripts should be treated at par with the wrong answers and 1/3rd mark is to be deducted. The matter has been examined and it is decided that henceforth double/multiple bubbling by candidates in the OMR scripts for promotional examinations should be treated as a wrong answer. While negative marks are not to be deducted in regular selections where panel is arranged in the order of seniority from those qualified as per RBE No.194/2019, double/multiple bubbling for a question by candidates in OMR scripts in all LDCE/GDCE selections should be treated as a wrong answer and negative mark(s) deducted. This issues with the approval of PCPO.

*** No.P[R] 420/VII Date: 21 -10-2020. All Sr.DPOs/WPOs Extra Divisional Officer

Sub: Drawal of salary during Child Care Leave (CCL) – reg. *****

Divisions/Units are aware that Board in their RBE No.64/2019 dated 23.04.2019 issued amendments to Chapter 5 of Establishment Code on Leave Rules. Rule 551 (E) (4) stipulates that during the period of CCL, a female railway servant and a single male railway servant shall be paid 100% of the salary for the first 365 days and at 80% of the salary for the next 365 days and these amendments have retrospective effect from 14.12.2018.

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It was pointed out by Vigilance department that preventive checks conducted on Divisions/Units/Workshops revealed that no initiative was taken by them to review the cases for enforcing recovery of overpayment in respect of those cases where CCL was granted above 365 days and full salary was allowed from 14.12.2018. All the Divisions/Units are advised to review the cases of CCL granted to employees above 365 days from 14.12.2018 and recover overpayment if any from such employees immediately. Action taken report may please be sent to the undersigned for apprising the position to PCPO and SDGM. This issues with the approval of competent authority.

***

No. P[R] 500/NPS Dt. 07.12.2020. PFA, CAO/C/SC, CWM/S&T/MFT Sr.DPOs/SC, HYB, BZA, GNT, GTL & NED WPOs/LGDS, GTPL & TPTY Sub: Additional relief on death/disability of Railway servant covered by Defined Contribution Pension System (NPS) – submission of life certificate thereof. Ref: (1) Bd’s ltr No. 2008/AC-II/21/19 dated 29.05.09(RBA No.31/09) (2) JPO issued under letter No. APF/NPS/PO 1 dated 11.04.2017.

*** Considering the hardships being faced by the employees appointed on or after 01.01.2004 and covered by Defined Contribution Pension System (NPS) who are discharged on invalidation/disablement and by the families of such employees who have died during service since 01.01.2004, Railway Board vide reference (1) decided that they may be allowed the Pension/Gratuity as per the provisions contained in RS (Pension) Rules, 1993, on provisional basis. As per Para V(3) of the JPO issued under reference (2), life certificate is required to be submitted by the beneficiary of the deceased/disabled NPS subscriber in the month of November every year in the settlement section where his/her case has been settled, along with other certificates like non-marriage, non-employment or re-employment (along with pay details) etc.

Board in their RBA No.72/2020 dated 14.09.2020 decided that in view of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and keeping in view of the vulnerability of elderly population to Corona virus, the existing timeline for submission of life certificate is extended till December, 2020. This was further extended upto 28th February, 2021 by Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare vide their letter dated 23.11.2020.

The matter regarding submission of life certificate by the beneficiary of the deceased/disabled NPS subscribers in receipt of Pension on provisional basis as per RBA No. 31/2009 at par with the pensioners/family pensioners governed by RS(Pension) Rules, 1993, has been examined and it is now decided that such beneficiary of the deceased/disabled NPS subscribers may submit life certificate in the

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office where his/her case was settled on or before 28.02.2021 on the analogy of instructions mentioned supra.

This issues with the approval of the competent authority. ***

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