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_____________________________________________________________________________________ Year 51, Vol. 6 Editor: Shiva Gopal Mishra JUNE,2015

EDITORIAL

Dear Comrades, Dr. Bibek Deb Roy Committee Report is at stage of finalization. We do not hope, there will

be much change than interim report. At the most, they can delete the portions in Chapter Five wherein they have talked about Compassionate Ground Appointments and

LARSGESS. Most dangerous is Chapter Two, Which is a roadmap for privatization. We have taken decision to fight it out with all seriousness, and to begin with, AIRF had given a Clarion Call to reach each and every Railwaymen and tell them about the ill effects of the said report during “Mass Mobilization Week” from 23rd June to 30th June, 2015. Finally, on 30th June, 2015, we have to organize “Black Day” by wearing black badges as well as furling black flags at all the places throughout the Indian Railways. Since this report is also going to affect our users, if we could also involve them in this movement and make it mass movement. Janandolan is only reply to such reports. Government does not want to promote Public Sector, which is why they are not spending on the Railways. This is very high time, and if we could organize the Youth, nobody could be in position to face the battle and we can win because their entire future is at stake. Now, this is high time to spread the message throughout the length and breadth of the country that we have to “Save the Railways to Save the Nation”. This will not be an ordinary movement, involvement and contribution of every one will be important. Hope, all of you will take it seriously, and by the time this editorial will be in your hand, you will be in the field.

With Best Wishes,

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INDIAN RAILWAYMEN, JUNE 2015

RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY AIRF ON HIGH LEVEL RAILWAY

RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE

The Standing Committee Meeting of the All India Railwaymen‟s Federation (AIRF), held at New Delhi on 22nd and 23rd May, 2015, discussed the Interim Report of the High Level Railway Restructuring Committee, headed by Shri Bibek Deb Roy, and notes with regret that it is a document for destroying the system of the Indian Railways, which has integrated the great country through its 65,000 km routes, running throughout the length and breadth of the country. This is the cheapest and safest mode of transport. Even, a poorest man of the country can travel long distance in quest of his bread. The students, women folk, senior citizens, cancer and other patients can move to meet their need with concession on fare. The daily passengers, moving in quest of earning bread will have to pay more fare, which will fell upon their family budget badly.

The present government went upon to destroy the system by allowing Corporate Houses to run the train services, charging air like erratic fare only to benefit the business houses. The report suggested replacement of regular workers by contract labour for day-to-day operations and maintenance of trains. Thus, contract labourers, who are exploited lot, will take the place of regular railway employees. The Standing Committee of the AIRF rejects the Interim Report outright and calls upon the travelling public, daily passengers, senior citizens, women and railwaymen to forge unity at all places and to stand against the anti-poor, anti-people policies of the government and to save the government‟s transport from the clutches of Government and Corporate Houses nexus. The Standing Committee Meeting of the AIRF calls upon all the people of the country and the Railwaymen in general to observe “Campaign Week” from 23rd to 30 June, 2015, which will culminate to a “Black Day” through the length and breadth of the country by wearing black badges, holding processions, demonstrations, dharnas etc. on 30th June, 2015.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE HIGH LEVEL RAILWAY RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE, HEADED BY BIBEK DEB ROY

1. Formation of “Railway Regulatory of India” to decide outsourcing of train services, freight and fare etc. 2. Allow private companies to run trains and charge freight and fare as per their own terms. 3. Stop all types of concessions granted to the students, female, senior citizens, sick persons, sportspersons,

media persons, differently abled persons. 4. Convert Railway Production Units and Workshops to private companies in the name “Indian Railway

Manufacturing Company” to be run by the private companies. 5. Handover construction, operation and maintenance of the Railways to the contractors. 6. Close down Railway Hospitals, Railway Schools etc. 7. Handover activities of the RPF to Industrial Security Force/CRPF. 8. Rationalize the strength of the Railway employees. 9. Stop employment of the wards on Compassionate Ground and under LARSGESS.

The timetable fixed for the purpose of implementation is seven years, immediate task being to allow private

companies to run trains, charge freight and fare as per their desire. (Ref.No.AIRF/186.May 25,2015)

AIRF’S VIEWS TO HIGH LEVEL RAILWAY RESTRUCTURING COMMITTEE

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Indian Railways, since its inception in the year 1853, has been serving the population of the country, moving goods and services from one end of the country to other braving all odds. The Railways is eco-friendly, energy efficient, reliable, high frequency and large capacity. This is the cheapest and safest mode of transport. Indian Railways has integrated diversified culture, language, community, caste and creed of this vast country. It has provided bread and butter to lakhs and lakhs of people. Besides, a large section of the people is dependent on Indian Railways to have two square meals for themselves and their family members.

The Railways was originally constructed by the private players, land being provided free of cost, paid fixed subsidy to the private companies by the government. But those private companies had failed to run his system and the system started disintegrating, services deteriorated drastically, lines after lines were closed denying connectivity to large population of the country, resulting the government gradually took over the lines and put them on rail.

Upon the recommendations of the Acworth Committee, Railway Budget was separated from the General Budget of the Government of India in the year 1924 with a view to provide undivided attention for the development of the Railways. Considering all aspects for maintaining the homogeneity and integrity of the country, the framers of the Constitution of the country had kept the Railways and Defence in the Central List only, and both have been successfully maintaining the homogeneity and integrity of the country despite all odds.

The assets of the Railways have been stabilized, expanded, modernized by generating resources internally and through the General Budgetary Support. Unfortunately, the government has started to reduce the Budgetary Support dropped from 75% to 30% during the period from 5th Five Year Plan to 11th Five Year Plan, causing serious constrain in the matter of expansion, development, de-congestion, maintenance of rolling stock in good fettle to ensure more and more comfortable and safe travel. Large population of the country residing in the remote areas are feeling exclusion as they are yet to see railway track within their vicinity.

Apart from the aforesaid melody, the Railways is the only organization which is paying dividend to General Revenue, whereas National Highways, Ministry of Shipping, Airport Authority of India etc., where General Budgetary Support is provided, are exempted from the obligation of payment of dividend. Over and above, Railways is to bear the brunt of social service obligation of Rs.25,000 crore per annum.

Permissible speed of Mail and Express Trains is between 110-130 kmph, but the average speed of Mail/ Express Trains is 50 kmph, while that of freight trains it is 25.5 kmph. This is because of constraining in the line capacity of large sections of the Indian Railways. Even, out of 1219 sections of High Density Traffic, 492 sections are over saturated with 100-150% capacity and 228 sections with 80-100% capacity, while 80% is the ideal capacity for smooth and efficient movement of trains. This has reduced the movement of both passenger and goods trains. This also affected the turnaround of rolling stock and efficiency indices of the Railwaymen, and freight traffic diverted from rail to road, as National Highways have been developed with huge Government‟s Budgetary support..

It is noted with dismay that, without going through the causes of congestion in the existing Railway System and without suggesting any remedy, the High Level Railway Restructuring Committee, headed by Bibek Deb Roy, has gone for setting up of Rail Tariff Regulatory Authority of India, proposing handing over virtual management of the Indian Railways to new entity, outsourcing of working of train services, encouraging the system of outsourcing of regular works of operation and maintenance of train services, Production Units, hospitals etc. to different entities. We have the saddest experience of formation of the Tariff Regulatory Authority in the Telecommunication, Airport Sectors, which have destroyed the BSNL and Indian Airlines. Indian Railways has been receiving quality rolling stock, hassle-free and timely with lesser cost because of unique service provided by the Railway Production Units. The proposal for formation of the Indian Railway Manufacturing Company will cause constrain in the matter of timely receipt of rolling stock, quality and will escalate the cost, causing further constraint on the working and finance of the Indian Railways.

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Medical facilities is an absolute necessity for maintenance of the standard of fitness of the Railwaymen, as their continuance in service entirely depends on their continuous maintenance of same medical standard, classification being A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, C1 and C2. The Railwaymen have been working round-the-clock. They will not get in time to attend different hospitals away from their workplace/home. Their family treatment will suffer. For such a huge population of serving and retired Railwaymen and their family, no outside agency can render medical aid. Virtually they will have to forgo medical treatment. Besides, per family cost of medical facilities provided by the Railways is only 50% than that of the expenditure being borne by the CGHS.

It is a matter of pride that everybody, especially Railwaymen, nowadays, is very much conscious about the education of their children. The job of the Railwaymen is transferrable. On transfer to a separate place, education of their children becomes a casualty in the matter of admission etc. In the Railway Schools, they get preference for admission of their children in the event of their transfer. It is not out of place to mention here that Health and Education are two important contributory factors in the matter of Human Development Index.

The Bibek Deb Roy Committee has recommended to delink the RPF from the Indian Railway System. Materials and properties of the Railways are lying scattered all over 68,000 km of the Indian Railways. RPF is responsible for safe custody of such materials/properties. RPF provide security to 2.5 crores of travelling passengers daily. Besides, there are incidents of agitations, bomb blasts etc. and general law and order situation of the country has deteriorated. As such, RPF is an integral part of the Railway System and it cannot be delinked, and need to be remained with the Indian Railway System.

It is noted with dismay that Bibek Deb Roy Committee has gone beyond its Terms of Reference and has commented on Compassionate Ground Appointment and Liberalized Active Retirement Scheme for Guaranteed Employment for Safety Staff (LARSGESS). This indicates total biasness of the Committee against the Railway fraternity.

In many advanced countries, such experiment was fraught with danger. Train services deteriorated, safety jeopardized and those governments had to pay hefty grants of billions of Euros/Pounds/Dollars etc. to maintain the system, and ultimately, they had to take back the track as was experienced in the UK, USA, New Zealand and other countries.

The Deb Roy Committee has recommended to dismantle the Railway Board. The Railway Board since its setting up have run and improve the Railway System reasonably. Interference on political consideration has done immense damage to the system. The high officials have been demoralized by abnormal delay in posting of the General Managers and Railway Board Members, and last but not the least by promoting the GMs for the post of CRB, superseding Railway Board Members.

The entire world needs specialization due to improving technologies day-by-day, but here HLRRC suggested merger, which is not acceptable to AIRF. We have never heard, the Government or any Committee talking merger of the IAS, IFS, IRS, IPS etc.

The report of the Rakesh Mohan Committee on Restructuring of the Indian Railways was deliberated upon extensively, and ultimately at Vadodara Railway Staff College, on 15-16 September, 2001, when the then Hon‟ble Minister for Railways, Shri Nitish Kumar, with both the MoSRs and his full team of the then CRB and Members of the Railway Board, entire members of the Rakesh Mohan Committee, along with Rakesh Mohan, were present. After two-day deliberations, Hon‟ble MR was convinced that, the report was not acceptable for the best interests of running of the Railway System efficiently and smoothly, and it could run efficiently and smoothly, till its level playing field with the Roadways was destroyed by pumping of heavy General Budgetary Support to the development of the National Highways, discriminating the Indian Railway System and by political interference in fixing freight and fare of the Indian Railways.

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It is emphatically stated that, the Railways will recover from the present illness, if General Budgetary Support is increased and make it dividend-free as is in the case of National Highway Authority of India, Airport Authority of India, Shipping Ministry etc., and Social Service Obligation is reimbursed, so that that the Railways could go a big way, fighting decongestion of high density and other elite routes, which will increase average speed of both passenger and freight trains and subsequently increase the mobility of rolling stock, viz. locomotives, coaches and wagons, and more and more passenger and freight trains would run on the same routes with same number of rolling stock, generating revenue for the operation and maintenance of the Indian Railways most efficiently.

The Standing Committee Meeting of the All India Railwaymen‟s Federation(AIRF), held at New Delhi on 22nd and 23rd May, 2015, discussed the report of the High Level Railway Restructuring Committee, headed by Bibek Deb Roy, gone through the whole recommendations, noted with dismay that, this is the recommendation only to dismantle the whole system of the Indian Railways, replace the Railway Board by Railway Regulatory Authority of India, hand over the entire system to the Corporate Houses to run the Railways by engaging contractors and contract labour replacing the Railwaymen, increasing economic burden to the travelling public, denying concessions, now available to the travelling public, students, female, senior citizens, sick persons, differently abled persons, freedom fighters, sportspersons, media persons etc., replacing regular permanent employees by contract workers. The Standing Committee of the AIRF has, therefore, arrived at a painful decision of rejecting the report of the committee lock-stock, and barrel. If the report of the said committee is thrust upon the people of the country and the Railwaymen, AIRF would be compelled to launch sustained struggle, and the responsibility of which shall squarely fall on the Ministry of Railways and Government of India.

AIRF’S REFERENCE TO VII CPC

Sub: Enhancement in the entry qualification of the Pharmacists Ref.: AIRF’s memorandum to VII CPC

Your kind attention is invited towards page No.218 of AIRF‟s memorandum to VII CPC, wherein Minimum Entry Qualification of the Pharmacists were written as under:-

(i) Academic - 10+ 2 pass with science subject. (ii) Technical 2 yrs diploma in pharmacy from recognized institute.

3 months practical training under any recognized institute

Must be registered with state pharmacy council for the practice of pharmacy.

(iii) Mode of Recruitment – 100% Direct through RRB Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (CGHS Division), Government of India vide Gazette Notification

No.G.S.R.51 dated 11th March, 2015 has further revised academic and technical qualifications of the Pharmacists as:-

(i) 12th Class Pass with Science Subjects(Physics, Chemistry and Biology) or equivalent from a recognized Board/University;

(ii) Diploma in Pharmacy from the Recognized Institution and registered as Pharmacist under Pharmacy Act, 1948; and

(iii) Two years’ experience as Pharmacist in any Recognized Hospital or Pharmacy after duly registered as Pharmacist under Pharmacy Act, 1948; and OR

(i) Bachelor Degree in Pharmacy(B. Pharm.) from a Recognized University or equivalent; and (ii) Registered as a Pharmacist under the Pharmacy Act, 1948.

Besides the above, Government of India vide their Gazette Notification No.14-117/2014-PCI dated 18.12.2014 and 14-148/2012-PCI dated 15.01.2015(photocopies enclosed for ready reference) has laid down the criteria for acquiring

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higher qualification and increasing the Nature of Duties and Responsibilities, but without revising upwardly the existing minimum entry Grade Pay of the Pharmacists in PB-I, GP Rs.2800. In view of the above, AIRF urges the Hon‟ble Seventh Central Pay Commission to give favourable consideration to the above submission of the AIRF, keeping in view the enhanced qualifications of the Pharmacists, for granting them better entry pay scale and pay structure.

(No.AIRF/405(VII CPC) May 28, 2015)

AIRF’S REFERENCES TO RAILWAY BOARD ON STAFF MATTERS

Sub: Incorrect recovery of debit against AC Coach Attendants for loss of bedroll (linen) Railway Board vide their letter No.2005/TG-V/10/17 dated 02.03.2006(Commercial Circular No.19/2006) had laid down the methodology, which should be adopted for recoveries from the AC Coach Attendants, irrespective of whether they are departmental or contractual, depending on codal life of the lost bedroll items. These orders have been followed on Western Railway for quite some time. However, recently at the instance of Headquarters Accounts, Sr. DME/BCT has ordered for recovering 100% of linen cost from the departmental AC Coach Attendants for the lost of linen, irrespective of codal life, which is causing high financial burden on them. This issue was raised at the Divisional level by our Western Railway affiliate – Western Railway Employees Union as far back as in 2014, no decision in this regard is taken by the DRM/BCT.

This issue was further raised before the General Manager, Western Railway by our aforementioned affiliate and was discussed as an outset item in the PNM Meeting on 31.03.2015. After detailed discussion, General Manager, Western Railway agreed for pending incorrect recovery; ordered by BCT Division of Western Railway. Since orders to this effect were not issued, as assured by the General Manager, the issue was again discussed with the CME/WR, who opined that, Railway Board‟s earlier orders dated 12.03.2006 were reiterated by the Commercial Department of Western Railway, which were further superseded vide Railway Board‟s letter No.2009/M(C)/165/6 dated 04.01.2010. The CME/WR vide his letter No.M442/19/3(Linen Management), Vol. III dated 13.08.2014 made a reference to Railway Board and further reminded the Board on 04.11.2014(photocopies enclosed) for deciding uniform policy at Railway Board‟s level.

It is worth-mentioning here that, decision taken and communicated by the Railway Board in 2006 for recovery of depreciated value of the lost linen was taken after discussion with the organized labour. Hence, recovery of 100% of cost of the linen after expiry of its codal life is not justifiable.

The Board are, therefore, requested to reiterate their orders of 2006 to all concerned, as at present, linen is not handled by the Commercial Department.

(No.AIRF/88. May 9, 2015)

Sub: Enhancement in the entry qualification of the Pharmacists

As per para 162(i), Chapter I of the IREM of the Ministry of Railways, existing minimum qualifications for entry grade to the post of the Pharmacists in the Railways are as under:-

(i) Educational Qualification - 10+2 in science or its equivalent, with 2 years Diploma in Pharmacy and registration with Pharmacy Council of India or registration with State Pharmacy Council .

(Authority Board's letter No.E(NG)II/98/RR-1/11 DATED 6-1-99 and 9.9.1999) (ii) Age: Between 20 and 30 years.

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Now, since Ministry of Health & Family Welfare(CGHS Division), Government of India vide Gazette Notification No.G.S.R.51 dated 11th March, 2015 has further revised academic and technical qualifications of the Pharmacists as:-

(iv) 12th Class Pass with Science Subjects(Physics, Chemistry and Biology) or equivalent from a recognized Board/University;

(v) Diploma in Pharmacy from the Recognized Institution and registered as Pharmacist under Pharmacy Act, 1948; and

(vi) Two years’ experience as Pharmacist in any Recognized Hospital or Pharmacy after duly registered as Pharmacist under Pharmacy Act, 1948; and OR

(iii) Bachelor Degree in Pharmacy(B. Pharm.) from a Recognized University or equivalent; and (iv) Registered as a Pharmacist under the Pharmacy Act, 1948.

The Board are, therefore, requested to kindly revise the existing entry grade qualification for the post of Pharmacists, as published in the Gazette Notification referred to above, at an earliest with the information to all the Chairmen‟s of the RRBs for further recruitment henceforth.

(No.AIRF/101(478).May 28, 2015)

AGENDA OF THE PNM MEETING HELD ON 20-21 MAY, 2015 BETWEEN

RAILWAY BOARD AND ALL INDIA RAILWAYMEN’S FEDERATION

ITEM NO.1/2015 : Inordinate delay in modernization of Printing Presses of the Indian Railways.

ITEM NO.2/2015 : Restoration of process of recruitment of Motorman from open market through RRB in case of

Metro Railway Kolkata.

ITEM NO.3/2015 : Supply of proper quality VHF Sets to Loco & Traffic Running Staff.

ITEM NO.04/2015 : Acceptance of certificates/ qualifications awarded by various Boards of School Education in

India for the purpose of employment on the Railways.

ITEM NO.05/2015 : Sanction of Work Charged posts – regularization thereof.

ITEM NO.06/2015 : Difficulties being faced in smooth operation of train service of Metro Railway, Kolkata.

ITEM NO.07/2015 : Anomaly in granting financial upgradation under MACP Scheme to directly recruited

Engineering Graduates as –HAD.

ITEM NO.08/2015 : Full utilization of the berths available for recruitment against Sports Quota.

ITEM NO.09/2015 : Re-deployment of surplus Cash & Pay Staff over the Indian Railways.

ITEM NO.10/2015 : Posting of Traffic Apprentices in Safety Category without Psycho Test.

ITEM NO.11/2015 : Hardship being faced by serving/retired railway employees and their family members in getting

treatment out of station.

ITEM NO.12/2015 : Cancer disease be covered in the definition of “Emergency Criteria” .

ITEM NO.13/2015 : Facilities to the staff appointed as “Trainee” on compassionate ground.

ITEM NO.14/2015 : Denial of advance increment to Nursing Staff possessing B.Sc. (Nursing) Degree.

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ITEM NO.15/2015 : Creation of posts of various categories of paramedical staff in Medical Department on the basis of yardsticks issued by the Railway Board.

ITEM NO.16/2015 : Withdrawal of General and Restricted Holiday to the staff of Workshop Accounts Office. ITEM NO.17/2015 : Denial of various benefits, after the employee is reported missing. ITEM NO.18/2015 : Denial of benefits under LARSGESS in case both mother and father are working in the categories covered under the scheme. ITEM NO.19/2015 : Recovery of cost of lost linen/ blanket etc. at its depreciation value. ITEM NO.20/2015 : Mode of selection for promotion to the post of Shunting Jamadar (PB-I + GP Rs.2400) Traffic/ Transportation Department . ITEM NO.21/2015 : Absorption of the staff who opted from various Zonal Railways etc. in RCF/RBL. ITEM NO.22/2015 : Fixation of pay on promotion to a post carrying higher duties and responsibilities but carrying same grade pay. ITEM NO.23/2015 : Provision of Maternity Leave to surrogate mother. ITEM NO.24/2015 : Revised qualification for open market recruitment in various categories – Relaxation therein in case of inter-railway/inter-divisional transfers for the recruits before revision of qualification. ITEM NO.25/2015 : Empanelment of private hospitals on CGHS rates. ITEM NO.26/2015 : Filling-up of the vacancies of Dresser Gr. III/Operation Theatre Asstt. Gr. III in PB-I Rs.5200-20200+GP Rs.1900 in Medical Department. ITEM NO.27/2015 : Denial of due financial benefits on promotion – Case of the Motormen of Central Railway. ITEM NO.28/2015 : Injustice to the category of ECRC on various Railways. ITEM NO.29/2015 : Implementation of recommendations made in para 7.2, 8.3 and 14.1 of the report on Revamping & Streamlining of Legal set-up on Indian Railways. ITEM NO.30/2015 : Additional man-power required for POH of additional AC Coaches at Carriage Repair Shop, Tirupati.

ALL INDIA CONSUMER PRICE INDEX (BASE 2001 = 100) IMPORTANT NOTICE

Dear Subscriber, Please renew your subscription as soon as possible by remitting Rs. 60/- by Money Order or By Demand Draft Drawn in favour of “Indian Railwaymen” to enable us to continue your uninterrupted supply of the Indian Railwaymen or Bhartiya Railwaymen every month. While remitting your subscription, please mention clearly your old subscriber number, name and full address with pin code number.

Month/Year Base Year 2001 = 100 Average

Total of 12 months

Twelve monthly Average

% increase over 115.76 for DA

Apr., 2014 242 2849 237.41 105.08

May, 2014 244 2863 238.75 106.24

June, 2014 246 2878 239.83 107.17

July, 2014 252 2895 241.25 108.40

Aug., 2014 253 2911 242.58 109.55

Sep., 2014 253 2926 243.83 110.63

Oct., 2014 253 2938 244.83 111.49

Nov.,2014 253 2948 245.66 112.21

Dec., 2014 253 2962 246.83 113.22

Jun., 2015 254 2979 248.25 114.45

Feb., 2015 253 2994 249.05 115.53

Mar., 2015 254 3009 250.75 116.61

*Average Price Index for January, 2001

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JCM STAFF SIDE REFERENCES ON STAFF MATTERS

Sub: Grievance regarding stoppage of Family Pension of widowed/divorced daughter of the pensioner Family Pension was granted by the Government of India to widowed/divorced daughter of the pensioner vide Department of Pension & Pensioners‟ Welfare‟s O.M. No.1/19/03-P&PW(E) dated 25th August, 2004 and 11th October, 2006. Now, Family Pension to widowed/divorced daughter of the pensioner has been stopped vide O.M. No.1/13/09-P&PW(E) dated 11.09.2013 of Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Pension & Pensioners‟ Welfare. According to said circular, widowed/ divorced daughter after the death of her mother and father is not entitled to get Family Pension, though in the previous decision it was not a condition.

It is well known to all that, there is pathetic condition of the widowed/divorced daughters in India, therefore, Family Pension is granted to them to empower them.

It would, therefore, be quite appropriate that the decision of Government of India, stopping pension to widowed/divorced daughters of the pensioners, contained in their letter supra dated 11.09.2013, be withdrawn and cancelled in the larger interest of widowed/divorced daughters of the pensioners and old practice of paying Family Pension to widowed/divorced daughters be restored.

(No.NC/JCM/2015. May 26, 2015)

NEWS FROM AIRF AFFILIATES

SWRMU

SWRMU held a massive Protest/Demonstration in front of the GM‟s Office at Hubli on 25/05/2015 to put pressure on the Government of India/Ministry of Railways to settle following 10-point Charter of Demands as also to reject Bibek Debroy Committee’s Interim Report, which is not in the interest of developing the Indian Railways. (1). Effect wage revision of the Central Government Employees from 01.01.2014, accepting the

memorandum of the Staff Side JCM; ensure 5-year wage revision in future; grant Interim Relief and merger of 100% of DA. Ensure submission of 7th CPC report within the stipulated time frame of 18 month; include the Grameen Dak Sewaks within the ambit if the 7th CPC. Settle all anomalies of the 6th CPC.

(2). No privatization, PPP or FDI in Railways and Defence Establishments and no corporatization of postal service.

(3). No Ban on recruitment/creation of post. (4). Scrap PFRDA Act (New Pension Scheme) and reintroduce the defined benefit statutory pension

scheme. (5). No outsourcing; contractorisation, privatization of governmental functions; withdraw the proposed

move to close down the Printing Presses ; the publication; form store and stationery departments and medical stores depots; regularize the existing daily rated/casual and contract workers and absorption of trained apprentices.

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(6). Revive the JCM functioning at all levels as an effective negotiating forum for settlement of the demands of the Central Government Employees.

(7). Stores Depots; regularize the existing daily rated/casual and contract workers and absorption of trained apprentices.

(8). Remove the arbitrary ceiling on compassionate appointments. (9). No labour reforms which are inimical to the interest of the workers. (10). Remove the ceiling on payment of Bonus. (11). Ensure five promotions in the service careers. AIRF and all of its affiliates are condemning the said report and urged the Government to reject the same, and if the Government of India fails to consider above cited 10-Charter of Demands, then an indefinite strike will be commenced from 23.11.2015, 06:00 am onwards.

Inauguration of the renovated Workshop Branch Office and Strike Awareness Campaign SWRMU held AGM of the Workshop in the Union Office at Mysore, on 4th June 2015, Mr. U. Subbarao, Chief Workshop Manager was the Chief Guest. At this movement, General Secretary SWRMU, Com. Dr. A.M. D’Cruz, explained about pending demands and he also warned, if the government does not fulfill all the demands of the Central Govt. Employees, including the Railwaymen, then they will go on indefinite strike on 23rd November 2015.

Gate Meeting by WREU(E&M), Dahod

WREU (E&M) Branch Dahod organized a Gate Meeting on 2nd June 2015. The large numbers of WREU activists gathered at Railway Main Hospital Dahod for this meeting. The meeting was addressed by Com. Perin Sophia Harsh. She focused on the need of specialized Doctor-MD (Physician) available in this hospital. She had also shown concerned regarding the non-availability of specialized doctors which leads to low bed occupancy. As large numbers of railwaymen‟s their family members and other RELHS beneficiaries are residing in Dahod area, but they are not referred to Railway Hospital for treatment. As such, it is utmost important in medical department for MD (Physician), so that the hospital can be utilized to its fullest and the staff and their family member could get better medical treatment. WREU ADI launched its website WREU launched nicely designed and users‟ most friendly website of WREU – ADI, viz. www.wreuadi.in on 7th May 2015 at a grand function organized in the Auditorium of DRM‟s Office at Ahmadabad. All the leaders and activists of WREU – ADI and large number of railway workers including women were present on the occasion. While launching the website, Com. J. R. Bhosale and all the leaders and activists of WREU – ADI wished all success to the website.

OBSERVATION OF INTERNATIONAL LABOUR DAY/MAY DAY

NWREU North Western Railway Employees‟ Union observed the International Labour Day on 1st May, 2015 by organizing various activities at different places under the flagship of Comrade Mukesh Mathur, General Secretary of Union and other central office bearers at their respective workplaces.

http://www.wreuadi.in/

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Jaipur Division and GM office GLO Branch, Jaipur together begin with a grand procession from union office station road to Divisional Railway manager‟s Office with finishing touch in form a massive meeting of hundreds of workers. It was addressed by the General Secretary Mukesh Mathur, on the current scenario of Seventh Pay commission, Vivek Debroy Committee report leading to privatization of Railways. He quoted the demonstration of more than two lakhs workers from all over India from various industries and sectors, railway workers being the largest participant, on parliament on 28th April, 2015 as a signal of warning to government to pay heed to their demands in time . The people present there were eager to participate in strike declared on 23 Nov, 2015. Ajmer Division and Workshop together with Insurance, Bank, Post & Telegraph, Income tax, Central Public Works Department, BSNL, Small scale industries, HMT, State transport workers, Platform porters (cooolies), Medical representative Union, Hind Mazdoor Sabha informal sector unions, state govt unions jointly organized a grand meeting with Comrade Mukesh Mathur as The Chief guest. In his address to the gathering of more than one thousands workers he shown his concern about the negative impact of present economic policies, ill effects of FDI, PPP, Globalization not only on public but also on the labour. In his opinion, government is amending the labour laws in the interest of capitalists and industrialists. This is a symbol of direct attack on rights and existence of entire working class. The joint action committees of central government employees unions have joined hands together to protest anti-labor attitude & policies of government and for this they have decided to go on indefinite strike from 23rd nov, 2015.

Loco Workshop Branch Ajmer, under the guidance of Comrade Bhupendra Bhatnagar rendered their services to old age home on this day. Abroad branch of Ajmer Division held a seminar on strategies for successful forthcoming strike of 23rd November. Jodhpur Workshop branch organized a voluntary blood donation camp and collected 150 units of Blood under the guidance of Rana Pooran Chandra deep Sing, Brijmohan, Lakhan Singh, Manoj Parihar, Mahendra vyas, Philips and others.

Bikaner Workshop organized a vehicle rally on scooters, bikes and cycles with red flags, banners of demands of workers from city union office passing through markets, railway colonies, railway hospital and ended at workshop union office. Bikaner Division held a Gate meeting and Demonstration in Divisional Railway Manager‟s Office under leadership of Comrade Anil Vyas, Anad Singh, Mohammed Hasan, Pratap Singh, Sohan Lal, Laalchand, Aziz, Ganesh, Ms. Rajrani and other union active members

NRMU (CR)

NRMU (CR), under the guidance of Com. Venu P. Nair, General Secretary observed Workers‟ Day on 1st May and also Maharashtra Day, which also fall on same day i.e. on 1st May. In Mumbai the function begun with flag hoisting at the roof of HQ office MTN which was modified and specially decorated for this purpose by General Secretary and President of the Union, at about 10-00 a.m. Large number of NRMU activists from different part of Mumbai Division attended the flag hoisting ceremony, amidst slogan shouting by the activists. Thereafter, Seminar, as scheduled was held at Matunga Head Office, under the president-ship of Com. Y.G. Joshi, President, NRMU.

Com. Venu P. Nair, General Secretary welcomed the activists and briefly explained the history of Workers‟ day and also took the opportunity to impress upon the staff about the need for strengthening Union by increasing the membership. Issues related to 7th CPC and the efforts made by AIRF on vital issues like NPS, Privatization etc. were also explained to the audience and invited Com. N. Haridasan HQ Secretary to deliver lecture on the relevance of Workers‟ day, in the current context.

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Com. N. Haridasan, HO Secretary, in his 1 hour lecture narrated the sequence of incidents right from Chicago shootout to New Economic Policy adopted by the Govt. at Centre and exhorted the members to strengthen the Union and prepare ourselves to fight against the neo-liberal economic policy of the Govt.

There was a huge workers rally organized by Joint Trade Union Council, Mumbai at Azad Maidan in the evening, which was also attended by our comrades. Flag hoisting and other programmes were also held at all the Divisional Head Quarters, by the respective divisions of Central Railway.

WREU SABARMATI WORKSHOP BRANCH On the eve of May Day, Com. R. C. Sharma, President and Com. J. R. Bhosale, General Secretary, WREU addressed public meeting at Sabarmati Workshop on 1st May 2015. The meeting was presided over by Com. R. C. Sharma. Com. Ajit Gajjar, Divisional Vice Chairman, Com. H. S. Pal, Divisional Joint Secretary, Com. Narendra Dave, Divisional Organizing Secretary, Smt. Pragna Parmar, Divisional Women Convener, Com. Sanjay Suryabali, Divisional Youth Convener of WREU – ADI and Com. Amrut Makwana, Divisional Treasurer of AISCTREA were also on dais. Com. R. C. Sharma congratulated all for assembling in such a large number on the most important day of the labour movement. He gave details of the recent meetings of AIRF for oral evidences with the 7th CPC. Com. J. R. Bhosale while conveying best wishes for the Labour Day, gave historic back ground of the May Day and why the workers all over the world celebrate the day as Labour Day by telling the story of struggle of labour in the Hey Market of Chicago in the year 1889. He called upon the participants that the days of workers are still not improved as it was imagined by our ancestors. He gave details of the demands of railway men before the 7th CPC and explained how AIRF has tried to convince the Chairman and members of 7th CPC for the demands of railwaymen and other central government employees. He hoped that the report is expected by end of year 2015. He said that present government got clear majority by their promise that “Achchhe Din Ayenge” but it is not giving any gesture of “Achchhe Din”. He strongly opposed the decision of allowing 100% FDI in Railways and explained the stand taken by the WREU/AIRF against this decision. He called upon the gathering that the labour has to fight for their own rights and no any political parties or political motivated organizations can help them and therefore asked them to always be in readiness to fight for their rights at the call of WREU/AIRF if need be.

INTERNATIONAL LABOUR DAY BY SBI DIESEL BRANCH OF WREU – ADI Under the leadership of Com. H. S. Pal, Branch Secretary and Joint Secretary, WREU – ADI, Sabarmati Diesel Shed Branch of WREU – ADI organized mass meeting in the staff canteen of Sabarmati Diesel Shed Branch on 1st May 2015. Com. Shankarlal Verma, Branch Chairman presided the meeting. More than 200 workers including representatives of WREU – ADI attended the meeting. Com. R. C. Sharma, Divisional Secretary, WREU – ADI addressed the meeting and gave details of the achievements of WREU – ADI for SBI Diesel Shed Staff. He gave details of recent oral evidences by AIRF with the 7th CPC and said that he has witnessed almost all the meetings. Com. J. R. Bhosale conveyed hearty greetings for the Labour Day and gave historic back ground of the May Day. He strongly criticized the anti-labour policies of the government by quoting various moves to facilitate the industrialists and the MNCs. He strongly opposed the decision of allowing 100% FDI in Railways and explained the stand taken by the WREU/AIRF against this decision. Com. H. S. Pal conducted the meeting and vote of thanks was conveyed by Com. Shankarlal Verma.

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MASSIVE VICTORY OF NRMU IN THE KRCL ELECTIONS

Notification for conducting election for recognition of Union in KRCL was issued in the month of April 2015 and the election result was declared on 15th May 2015, wherein NRMU was declared as elected as the only one recognized Union for employees working in KRC.

The contest was mainly between NRMU and an alliance of two Unions which included KRCEU (affiliated to RMU) and KRKS (affiliated to Rail Kamgar Sena) and whole heartedly supported by CRMS (affiliated to NFIR/INTUC) and the frustrated splinter group from NRMU.

It was an intensely fought election and the entire election strategy was chalked out and implemented under the able-leadership of Com. Venu P. Nair, General Secretary, NRMU. The KRC employees were under tremendous pressure from the then recognized Union of KRCL, and the employees were warned of dire consequences, if Joined hands with NRMU or even in case of attending the meeting of NRMU and therefore, the KRCL employees were initially reluctant to get identity by themselves with the NRMU. It will not be out of place to mention here that the sympathisers and activists of NRMU were subjected to severe victimization by the earlier regime by way of transfer, punishment etc. in collaboration with KRCL Management. Here the leadership of Com. Venu P. Nair, and the dedication, commitment and hard work of NRMU comrades played a vital role, in changing the perception and mood of the KRCL employees, in favour of NRMU. This could be achieved by conducting umpteen number of meetings, padyatras and man to man contact by a battery of NRMU comrades under the leadership of Com. Venu P. Nair, in and out of the day. The campaign succeeded in instilling a fair amount of confidence in the minds of KRCL employees, who gradually started coming out openly in support of NRMU and joining the campaign.

STAFF CONTACT CAMPAIGN AND PUBLIC MEETING AT GANDHIDHAM Com. R. C. Sharma, Divisional Secretary, WREU, ADI accompanied by Com. R. S. Mishra, Divisional Treasurer, Haribuxsingh, Divisional Vice Chairman, Harphool Kumavat, Divisional Vice Chairman and activists of GIM Branches visited all the units of Gandhidham area and contacted the staff working there. They heard their grievances and assured to do needful for early resolution of the same. There was very good response of workers and they thanked leaders of WREU for airing their grievances.

ALERT GUARD & MOTORMAN SAVED TWO LIVES

Shri Dinesh Kumar Yadav, Guard-CCG/WR, when found that two visually challenged persons lost their way and fell down on the track of platform No.3. Realizing that at this point of time a train from Marine Lines was to enter platform No.3, he rushed with red flag and waved to the Motorman of incoming train. On seeing red flag, Motorman of train No.90288 stopped the train by applying emergency brake just 10 feet away from the visually challenged duo. Shri Yadav with the help of other commuters took them to ARO‟s office, sprinkled water on unconscious blind man and rendered first aid to both of them and thereafter allowed to leave to their work place.

OBITUARY

AIRF condoles the death of Com. P. Purushothaman, Ex. ZS/AIRF and Ex. GS/ICFLU. On this sad moment we pray the Almighty to give eternal peace to the departed soul and enough strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

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RAILWAY BOARD’S ORDERS

Sub: Policy on reimbursement of medical expenses by Railways where part payment has been received by the beneficiary through medical insurance claim. Ref: Railway Board’s letter no. 2009/H/6-4/policy, dated 28.02.2013.

Railway Board has been receiving representations from various quarters for modifying the extant policy on reimbursement of medical expenses where part payment has been made through insurance claims. After due consideration, in supercession of the above referred letter, the following instructions are issued.

Railway beneficiaries, both serving employees and retired employees (members of RELHS scheme) who have subscribed to Medical Insurance Policies, may be allowed to claim reimbursement both from the insurance company as well as Railways subject to the condition that the total amount of reimbursement from both the sources should not exceed the total expenditure incurred by the beneficiary for the treatment. The beneficiary will make the first claim to the insurance company and thereafter to the Railway concerned, wherever necessary, as per the procedure explained below. 1). The medical claim against the original vouchers/bills would be raised by the beneficiary first to the insurance company, which would issue a certificate, addressed to the concerned CMS/MD indicating the amount reimbursed. The insurance company will retain the original vouchers/bills in such cases and issue photocopies of bills/ vouchers duly certified in ink along with stamp of the insurance company. 2). The beneficiary would thereafter prefer his/her medical claim along with photocopies of vouchers/bills duly certified, in ink along with stamp of the insurance company to the concerned MD/CMS through the Health Unit/Hospital where the Medical I-card is registered. 3). Medical Department shall scrutinize the claim as per the extant rules of Railway, ignoring the amount already reimbursed by insurance company, and the amount found admissible, as per Railway approved rates, will be processed for reimbursement. 4). Reimbursement from Railway will hovever be limited to the difference between actual amount spent by beneficiary and the amount already reimbursed by insurance company “or” the amount found admissible as per Railway Rules, whichever is lower. (Illustrative examples are enclosed as annexure 1). 5). The fact that the claim has been accepted and processed by an Insurance Company does not confer any validity/legality to the claim as far as reimbursement from Railways is concerned. Reimbursement from Railways shall be done only if the claim is admissible as per the extant rules of Railways. Just like any other reimbursement claim, it can be rejected at any stage. These instructions take effect from the date of issue of letter. Past cases shall not be reopened.

“Annexure I” Annexure to Board‟s letter No. 2009/H/6-4/Policy dated: 09/04/02015

Illustration No. I

A. Total Medical Expenditure incurred by the Rly. beneficiary Rs. 1,00,000/-

B. Amount reimbursed by Insurance Company out of (A) Rs. 40,000/-

C. Amount out of (A) which is reimbursable as per Rly. approved rates/rules. Rs. 70,000/-

D. Maximum amount that can be reimbursed by Railways will be either (A-B) OR (C) whichever is lesser.

Rs. 60,000/-

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Illustration No. II

A. Total Medical Expenditure incurred by the Rly. beneficiary Rs. 1,00,000/-

B. Amount reimbursed by Insurance Company out of (A) Rs. 20,000/-

C. Amount out of (A) which is reimbursable as per Rly. approved rates/rules. Rs. 70,000/-

D. Maximum amount that can be reimbursed by Railways will be either (A-B) OR (C) whichever is lesser.

Rs. 70,000/-

(No.2009/H/6-4/Policy.09/04/2015) Sub: Retention of Railway Quarter-Consolidated Clarification Regarding.

There are various policies framed from time to time and revised subsequently on house allotment/retention applicable to various situations such as transfer, deputation, retirement RRB and to projects etc. Besides the normal relaxations granted for quarter retention in cases of transfer, retirement, and death etc., the board in exercise of its power to relax in the existing policies on house allotment /retention, sanctions from time to time, relaxations for various tenures in different categories of cases such as chairman RRB, New Zones/divisions, USBRL project, Training institutions etc. of late this office has been receiving queries from various sources relating to subject in various forms as listed in the table given as Annexure “A”. The matters, in a consolidated form, have been examined by the full board and the decisions taken in respect of each of such queries/proposals etc. are noted against each of the queries in the said table. This issue with the concurrence of the finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

Annexure-“A”

S.No. Queries Existing position Revised position as approved by full Board.

1. Whether the period of eight months (two months on normal rent and remaining 06 months at the rate double the normal rent/special license fee) permissible under normal transfer would be applicable in addition to the relaxations granted in case of new zones/divisions?

Except for ECR and NWR quarter retention was allowed till 31.08.2009. In cases of ECR and NWR retention is at present allowed up to 31.12.2015.

Further relaxation of 02 months that is granted in case of normal transfer may also be granted in addition to the special relaxations granted from time to time in cases of officers/staff posted to new zones/Divisions.

2. Whether the scholastic session includes the maximum permissible period in case of transfer?

Scholastic session includes the maximum permissible period of 08 months retention allowed in case of permanent transfer. However, where the session exceeds 08 months the retention is allowed up to end of the current year session plus 15 days

Scholastic session includes the maximum permissible period of 08 months retention allowed in case of permanent transfer. However, where the session exceeds 08 months the retention is allowed up to end of the current year session plus 15 days

3. Whether scholastic session means the whole period/tenure of course or the ensuing session?

Retention is allowed, in case of permanent transfer, maximum to cover the current academic session.

It does not mean the whole tenure of the course but the current session only whatever may be the tenure of the course.

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4. Whether the period permissible under normal transfer would be applicable in addition to the relaxations granted in case of Training Institutes?

Full tenure retention is allowed in case of posting as faculties in the Trg. Institutes.

Further relaxation of 02 months granted in case of normal transfer may be granted in addition to the special relaxations granted.

5. Whether the earmarked quarter can be retained after retirement/transfer after the permissible period of two months?

Non-pooled/earmarked quarter can be retained maximum up to 02 months on normal rent.

Since the earmarked quarters are meant for higher postings retention may not be allowed beyond two months under any circumstances.

6. Whether the earmarked quarter can be retained after retirement after the permissible period of two months under severe illness clause?

Earmarked quarter can be retained maximum for two months period either in case of transfer or retirement.

Retention is allowed in alternative accommodation in any place of choice for the remaining 06 months. The cases with severe illness may be covered under those alternative provisions.

7. Whether the relaxations granted under school education etc are applicable in addition to the special dispensations etc?

Retention allowed under education/medical ground for maximum period of 06 months. However, in case of transfer in between academic session up to a maximum period up to the end of the academic session plus 15 days but subject to whichever is more of the two above.

Except for scholastic ground which may cover the session and go beyond the maximum permissible period of 08 months it is inclusive of the normal permissible period.

8. Whether the period of eight months(two months on normal rent and remaining 06 months at the rate double the normal/ rent/special license fee) permissible under normal transfer would be applicable in addition to the relaxations granted in case of Chairmen/RRBs?

Retention is allowed at previous place of posting for a period not exceeding 3 years on payment of normal rent.


9. Whether the period of eight months(two months on normal rent and remaining 06 months at the rate double the normal/ rent/special license fee) permissible under normal transfer would be applicable in addition to the relaxations granted in case of posting to J-USBRL(both new line and open line)construction project?

Retention is allowed up to 31.03.2018 or the completion of project whichever is earlier.


10. Whether re-allotment of quarter in previous place of posting is allowed in case

No such allotment is made for the purpose of availing retention facility.

Re-allotment of Railway accommodation will not be eligible in the previous place of

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retention is allowed or extended subsequently for the sake of availing retention facility

posting once the same is vacated.

(RBENo. 38/2015 (No. E (G)2011QR1-15.23/04/2015)

Sub: Grant of Dearness Relief to Central Government Pensioners/ family pensioners – revised rate effective from 01.01.2015. The undersigned is directed to refer to this Department‟s OM No. 42/10/2014- P&PW (G) dated 29th

September, 2014 on the subject mentioned above and to state that the president is pleased to decide that the Dearness Relief (DR) payable to Central Government Pensioners/ family pensioners shall be enhanced from the existing rate of 107% to 113% w.e.f. 1st January, 2015.

2. These orders apply to (i) All Civilian Central Government Pensioners / Family Pensioners (ii) The Armed force Pensioners, Civilian Pensioners paid out of the Defence Service Estimates, (iii) All India Service Pensioners (iv) Railway Pensioners and (v) The Burma Civilian Pensioners/ Family Pensioners and Pensioners/ families of displaced Government pensioners form Pakistan, who are Indian Nationals but receiving pension on behalf of Government of Pakistan and are in receipt of ad-hoc ex-gratia allowance of Rs. 3500/- p.m. in terms of this Department‟s OM No. 23/1/97- P&PW(B)dated 23.02.1998 read with this Department‟s OM No. 23/.3/2008- P&PW(B)dated 15..9.2008. 3. Central Government Employees who had drawn lump sum amount on absorption in a PSU/Autonomous body and have become eligible to restoration of 1/3rd commuted portion of pension as well as revision of the restored amount in terms of this Department‟s OM No.4/59/97- P&PW (D) dated 14/07/1998 with also be entitled to the payment of DR @113% w.e.f. 1/1/2015 on full pension i.e. the revised pension which the absorbed employee would have received on the date of restoration had he not drawn lump sum payment on absorption and Dearness pension subject to fulfillment of the conditions laid down in para 5 of the O.M. dated 14.07.98. in this connection, instructions contained in this Department‟s OM No. 4/29/99- P&PW (D) dated 12.7.2000 refer. 4. Payment of DR involving a fraction of a rupee shall be rounded off to the next higher rupee. 5. Other provisions governing grant of DR in respect of employed family pensioners and re-employeed

Central Government Pensioners will be regulated in accordance with the provisions contained in this Department‟s OM No. 45/73/97-P&PW(G) dated 2.7.1999 as amended vide this Department‟s OM No.F.No. 38/88/2008 - P&PW(G) dated 9th July 2009. The provisions relating to regulation of DR where a pensioner is in receipt of more than one pension will remain unchanged. 6. In the case of retired judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, necessary orders will be issued by

the Department of Justice separately. 7. It will be the responsibility of the pension disbursing authorities, including the nationalized banks, etc. to

calculate the quantum of DR payable in each individual case. 8. The offices of Accountant General and authorized Pension Disbursing Banks are requested to arrange

payment of relief to pensioners etc. on the basis of these instructions without waiting for any further instructions from the comptroller and Auditor General of India and the Reserve Bank of India in vew of letter

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No. 528-TA, II dated 23/04/1981 of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India addressed to all Accountant General and Reserve Bank of India Circular No. GANB No. 2958/GA-64 (ii)(CGL)/81 dated the 21st May, 1981 addressed to State Bank of India and its subsidiaries and all Nationalised Banks. 9. In their application to the pensioners/ family pensioners belonging to Indian Audit and Account

Department, these orders issue after consultation with the C&AG. 10. This issues with the concurrence of Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure conveyed vide

their ID No. 1(4)/E.V/2004 dated 24th April, 2015. 11. Hindi version will follow.

(F.No. 42/10/2014- P&PW (G).27.04.2015)

Sub: Grant of Washing Allowance to all employees drawing Grade Pay of Rs. 1800/- and provided official uniform. Arising out of a Demand raised in the PNM ITEM NO. 48/2006 (NFIR/AIRF), the issue regarding grant of Washing Allowance to all employees who have been supplied with uniform but have not been granted Washing Allowance has been under consideration of the Board for quite some time. it has been now decided by the Board to exytend the benefit of Washing Allowance to all railway employees who are drawing grade pay of Rs.1800/- and are provided official uniform. These orders will be effective from the date of issue of this order. (RBE No. 41/2015 (No F(E)I/2005/AL-29/4. 01.05.2015))

Sub: - Upper Age limit for direct recruitment to non- gazetted posts on the Railways.

In terms of Board‟s letter of even number dated 10/05/1999 (RBE No. 99/1999), an acorss the board relaxation of three years above prescribed upper age limit in open market recruitment to all non gazetted posts including engagement of Substitutes on the railways has been provided. The currency of this relaxation contained in letter of even number dated 10.05.199 (RBE No. 99/1999) has been extended from time to time and was available up to 03.02.2015 in terms of RBE No. 57/2012. The matter has further been reviewed and it has now been decided by this ministry to provide relaxation in the following manner above the prescribed upper age limit for recruitment to all non-gazetted posts including engagement of Substitutes:-

Sl.No. Period Relaxation (in years) in upper age limit above the prescribed age limits for various posts

(i) 04/02/2015 to 03/02/2017 02 years

(ii) 04/02/2017 to 03/02/2019 01 year

(iii) Beyond 03/02/2019 No relaxation

These orders take effect from 04.02.2015.indents placed after 03.02.2015 may be suitably amended. (RBE No. 45/2015 (No.E(NG)-II/94/RR-1/29. 11/05/2015.) Sub: Providing training facilities for persons with disabilities-Guidelines A need has been felt to issue guidelines to provide certain additional facilities/amenities to persons with disabilities

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(PWD) to enable them 'to effectively discharge their duties. Guidelines have been laid down by the Department of Personnel & Training (DOP&T) for providing facilities such as identification of jobs, post recruitment and pre-promotion training, assistive devices, free accessibility etc. and other related areas which require special attention.

Since training is on essential component of the service requirement of on employee, following may be ensured/provided: 1. Induction training progromme for the persons with disabilities should be imparted together with the other employees. 2. Job specific post-recruitment as well as pre-promotion training progrommes should be organized for the persons with disabilities. Definite action to conduct job specific inclusive training progrommes for persons with disabilities along with other employees should be enforced, 3. Duration and contents of training progrommes may be finalized in consultation with the National institutes under the Deportment of Disability Affairs, Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and, if felt necessary, assistance of prominent Associations/Federations/Confederations working in the sphere of disabilities could be token. 4. Training progrommes may also be arranged for the persons with disabilities, keeping in view changes in job profile on account of, introduction of new technology or promotion of the employees etc. The venue of the training needs to be fixed depending on suitability for conducting such training progrommes. Action taken on the above may be advised to this office.

(Ref.: RBE No.46/2015 (No. E (MPP)2015/3/13) of Ministry of Railways, Railway Board)

Sub: Indigenous system of medicine-Homeopathic/Ayurvedic dispensaries-revised policy reg. Kindly refer to Board‟s guidelines on the issue of Indigenous system of medicine issued under Board‟s letter dated 23.7.2014 in the subject matter. 2. Pursuant to the requests received from the federations and zonal railways, Board have reconsidered the matter and have decided as follows: (i) The ceiling limit of the number of Homeopathic and Ayurvedic dispensaries fixed vide Board‟s instructions dated 23.7.2014 stands withdrawn. As such there will be no ceiling limit on the number of dispensaries in each zone/PU etc till further decision is taken in the matter. (ii) The existing consultants working in 8 hourly Homeopathic and Ayurvedic dispensaries may be allowed to continue, with the approval of respective SBF Committee. Fresh engagement in these dispensaries should be done on 4 hourly basis. (iii) The facilities extended to the practitioners (in 8 hourly dispensaries) prior to issue of aforesaid instructions dated 23.7.2014 may continue till such time they remained engaged with the approval of SBF Committee. (iv) Monthly honorarium for Ayurvedic Dispenser working in 8 hourly and 4 hourly basis stands revised to Rs. 9ooo/- and Rs. 7100/- (v) Monthly subsidy on medicines for Ayurvedic Dispensaries stands revised to Rs. 98oo/- 3· other terms and conditions as stipulated vide Board‟s letter dated 23.7.2014 would continue to be the same. 4· These orders are applicable from the date of issue of Board‟s letter dated 23.7.2014 excluding items at (iv) and (v) above which will be effective from the date of issue of this letter. 5· This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of Ministry of Railways.

(RBE No. 47- /2015 (No.E(W)2013/ISM/1.1805/2015)

Sub: Training of Supervisors on subjects related to “Environment and Climate Change.” Ref: CRB’s letter No. 2015/Environ/06/01 dated 24.2.2015. Further to the above reference, a letter No. 2015/Environ/06/01 dated 1/4/2015 has been issued to Director General/NAIR and Directors of other CTIs. (Copy enclosed.) . This letter stresses the importance on appropriate training to improve the awareness and knowledge among railway officers on the current trends in the field of

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„Environment and Climate Change‟. It is necessary for supervisors of various departments, particularly those in the technical as well as Traffic Deptt., who are in the cutting edge level, are also imparted with appropriate knowledge on „Environment and Climate Change‟ including laws concerned. Hence, the Main Training Centres functioning in various zonal Railways & PUs may kindly be geared up to organize training for supervisors of various departments, when they come for initial and Refresher Training. 2. As part of the training, following subjects can be coverd; Pollution Control, Environment Management System & Accreditation Energy Management including Energy Audit Water Management including Water Audit Solid Waste Management.

3. It is seen that a quite a few officers as well as supervisors have obtained special qualification on the subjects related to Environment Management. They can be indentified and suitable database prepared and shared with Board. Further, they could be involved in preparation of the training modules on same as well as for the purpose of imparting training. Zonal Railways/PUs can come forward and choose a subject of their choice out of the above items and advise board so that suitable instructions could be issued to prepare specific training module for supervisors for use by other Railways/PUs also. 4. Kindly send your response indicating the actions taken/proposed to taken on para 2 & 3 above.

(RBE No. 50/2015 (No.E(MPP)2015/3/15. New Delhi,22.05.2015), Sub: Recognition of Training Centres on Indian Railways.

Kindly refer to Board‟s letter No.E(MPP)2001/3/9 dated 18/9/2003 (RBE No. 163/2003) wherein Railways were advised to send the proposals for opening of new Training Centres to Management Services Directorate of Railway Board for consideration and approval. It has, however, been observed that Railways, despite all instructions have continued to set up new Traing Centres without making any detailed analysis of the requirement as also needs of the Zonal Railways/PUs, on their own, without any knowledge of Railway Board. In order to curb this mushrooming of Training Centres on Indian Railways, Railway Board has decided that:

A standing committee in the Zonal Railway/PU with Chief Personnel Officer (as Convenor), FA&CAO and nominated Training Manager of the Department concerned may be formed. This Committee would review the need and requirement of setting up of new Training Centres/Up-dation of existing Training Centres etc., keeping in mind the existing facilities, existing infrastructure and also the need to merge one or two training centres to cater to the additional requirement. The committee shall also review the need for continuation of existing training centres.

All the proposals, recommended by the standing committee giving detailed justification will need to be approved by Addl. General Manager or by General Manager in case AGM is not available before being sent to Board (Training Directorate) for approval.

It will be the responsibility of the Standing Committee to ensure that no Training Centre is allowed to open without their clearance and without Board‟s approval.

Board desire that Railways/PUs may strictly adhere to the above instructions, No Proposal,

henceforth, for opening / updation of a new training centre or recognition of training centre on IR

will be considered in Board without approval of the Standing Committee.

(RBE No. 51/2015 (No.E(MPP)2015/3/6.New Delhi 22/05/2015)

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NATIONAL CONVENTION OF THE CTUS - 26TH

MAY 2015, NEW DELHI

DECLARATION

This National Convention of Workers being held under the banner of joint platform of all the Central Trade Unions of the country along with independent national federations of all sectors and service establishments expresses deep concern over anti worker, anti-people and pro-corporate actions of the present Govt. at the Centre in pursuance of the policy of globalization. During this period the Govt. has been over-busy in amending all laabour laws to empower the employers with unfettered rights to “hire and fire” and stripping the workers and trade unions of all their rights and benefits besides aggressively pushing through almost unlimited FDI in strategic sectors like Railways, Defence and Financial Sector. Also, through sweeping changes in the existing Land Acquisition Act, farmers‟ right to land and agri-workers‟ right to livelihood are been sought to be drastically curbed and curtailed. The Govt. aim in aggressively pushing through sweeping changes in labour-laws is nothing but to push out overwhelming majority of workers out of the coverage of all labour laws and to drastically curb the trade union rights. The CTUs had besides other issues raised the issue of strict enforcement of labour laws and universal social security but this Govt. is doing away with all rights components in all the labour laws aiming at creating conditions of bonded labour in all the workplaces. EPF and ESI schemes are proposed to be made optional which is also aimed at demolishing the PF and ESI schemes dismantling the basic social security structures available to the organized sector. And for the vast unorganized sector workers, old schemes are being repackaged and renamed, without providing for funds and implementation-machinery/network with a view to befool the people. The Govt. has not taken any step to curb price rise of essential commodities and to generate employment except making tall claims of containing inflation in the media. On universalizing public distribution system, the Govt. is trying to scuttle it through Direct Benefit Transfer resulting further squeeze on the common people. During the year with the support of the present Govt. various state governments have brought about drastic anti-workers changes in basic labour law viz., Industrial Disputes Act, Contract Labour (Regulation & Abolition) Act, Factories Act and Apprenticeship Act, Trade Unions Act etc introducing “hire & fire”, throwing more than 71% of factories out of coverage of Factories Act and making all contractors employing up to 50 workers free from any obligation towards workers. The Central Govt on its part has introduced amendments to Factories Act raising doubly the limit of workers for registration of factories, put in public domain the proposals for new Small Factories (Regulations of Service conditions) Bill which prescribes that major 14 labour laws will not apply to factories employing upto 40 workers. Labour code on Wages Bill and Labour Code on Industrial Relations Bill which under the cover of amalgamation seek to make registration of unions almost impossible, making retrenchment and closure almost free for the employers class. These bills have been put in public domain without consulting the trade unions thereby violating the provisions of ILO Convention 144 on Tripartite Consultation. Amendments have also been brought in EPF & MP Act and ESI Act to make it optional with a sinister design to finally demolish the two time-tested statutory schemes for the workers. The Prime Minister‟s office has written to the Chief Secretaries of States to follow Rajasthan Model in labour laws. All these amendments are meant to exclude 90% of the workforce from application of labour laws thereby allowing the employers to further squeeze and exploit the workers. The convention also expresses dismay over the Govt‟s total inaction in implementing the consensus recommendations of 43rd, 44th and 45th Indian Labour Conferences on formulation of minimum wages, same wage and benefits as regular workers for the contract workers and granting status of workers with attendant benefits to those employed in various central govt. schemes like anganwadi, mid-day-meal, ASHA, para-teachers etc. On the contrary, the Govt. drastically curtailed budget allocations to all those centrally sponsored schemes meant for poor peoples‟ welfare. It is also noted with utter dismay that the present government is also continuing to ignore the twelve point demands of entire trade union movement pertaining to concrete action to be taken for containing price-rise and aggravating unemployment situation, for strict implementation of labour laws, halting mass scale unlawful contractorisation, ensuring minimum wages for all of not less than Rs. 15000 per month with indexation and universal

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social security benefits and pension for all including the unorganized sector workers, etc. The demands also include compulsory registration of Trade Union within 45 days and ratification of ILO Conventions 87 and 98. Even the legislations passed by Parliament on the issue of Street Vendors is not being implemented appropriately. The National Convention also denounced the retrograde move of the Govt. in hiking/allowing FDI in Defence, Insurance, Railways and other sectors and also its aggressive move for disinvestment in PSUs including Oil and financial sector aiming at total privatization which will be detrimental to the interests of the national economy, national security as well as mass of the common people. The National Convention also condemned the sweeping change sought to be brought in Land Acquisition Act permitting forcible acquisition of land from the farmers and putting in jeopardy the livelihood of agricultural workers. It is disgusting to note that 147 workers of Maruti Suzuki at Manesar are being force to languish in Jail for more than two years on false and fabricated charges. It is unfortunate that even after the assurance of Prime Minister to revive the closed NOKIA Sriperumbudur unit; the recent decision to sell it out demonstrates Government approach to deny protection to workers. The coal sector has already been opened for commercial operations by private sector. The Convention supports the decision of the constituents of JCM of Central Govt. employees to go for indefinite strike from 23rd November, 2015 and will decide at appropriate stage the form of solidarity action to be taken. The convention also congratulates coal, postal, transport and telecom workers for their strike against policies of the Govt. The Convention demands upon the Central Govt. to stop forthwith the process of making retrograde amendments to the labour laws. The Convention also demands immediate steps to implement the consensus recommendations of successive Indian Labour Conferences and also positive response to long pending demands of the entire trade union movement of the country. The Convention urges the Central Govt. to desist from mindless drive for disinvestment in CPSUs and liberalizing FDI in defence, insurance, Railways etc. and the convention also condemns the Govt. move of corporatization of major ports and postal services etc. The Convention urges the Govt. to reverse the direction of the ongoing economic policy regime which has landed the entire national economy in distress and decline affecting the working people most. The Convention calls upon all the trade unions, federations across the sectors to widen and consolidate the unity at the grass-root level and prepare for countrywide united movement to halt and resist the brazen anti-worker and anti-people policies of the Govt. and in preparation to the same undertakes unanimously the following programme. 1). Joint conventions and campaigns during June-July in state, district and industry level wherever possible and taking initiative to involve common people in support of workers struggle. 2). ALL INDIA GENERAL STRIKE ON 2nd SEPTEMBER 2015.

Documents

Annual Subscription Rs.60/-, Single Copy Rs.5/- wherein they have talked about Compassionate Ground Appointments and LARSGESS. Most dangerous is Chapter Two, Which is …