31.12.2025:

IDA RATE DUE FROM 01.01.2026:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers for the months September, October and November 2025, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.01.2026 is 236.8% [increase by 3.6%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.

31.12.2025:

CBDT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 10.11.2025 REQUESTING ISSUE OF A COMMON ORDER BASED ON ITAT CHANDIGARH ORDER DATED 30.05.2025 REGARDING INCOME TAX EXEMPTION ON EX-GRATIA RECEIVED BY BSNL VRS 2019 RETIREES:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 10.11.2025 requesting to issue a common order based on ITAT Chandigarh order dated 30.05.2025, CBDT has stated that "petitioner has not filed the grievance regarding its own case. The grievance filed by the petitioner relates to policy decision and issues relating to policy decisions do not fall under the definition of a grievance. Instead, these are considered representations or suggestions and are not treated as grievances needing redressal."   View the CBDT reply

29.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA ISSUES NOTIFICATION FOR HOLDING OF FOURTH ALL INDIA CONFERENCE AT VARANASI:

AIBSNLREA CHQ has issued Notice for holding of the Fourth All India Conference at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 24th and 25th March 2026. Detailed Circular has been already issued separately.   View the Notification

27.12.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 01.12.2025 REVIEW OF PROMOTION FROM JTO (T) TO SDE (T) GRADE ON REGULAR BASIS W.E.F. 01.02.2001 IN RESPECT OF SHRI M.N.CHAVDA, RETD SDE (T) SURAT:

AIBSNLREA has been pursuing the case of Review of promotion from JTO (T) to SDE (T) grade on regular basis w.e.f 01.02.2001 – case of Shri Mukundbhai N. Chavda, Retd SDE (T), Surat for a very long time now. In response to our latest letter dated 01.12.2025, BSNL Corporate Office has now stated that "the matter is under active consideration in this office. Further, the matter related to review of Time Bound Upgradations will be dealt by the Circle from which the applicant has retired."   View the BSNL letter

26.12.2025:

DOT WRITES TO CGMT BSNL UP (EAST) CIRCLE REQUESTING TO EXPEDITE THE RESOLUTION OF GRIEVANCE OF SHRI R.K.TANDON AS IT IS UNDER MONITORING BY HON'BLE MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS:

AIBSNLREA has been pursuing the case of non-payment of medical claims of Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon, Retd AGM Lucknow, with Lucknow BA administration unjustly denying payment on a wrong plea of non-validation of MRS Card. After several letters from AIBSNLREA receiving same response from Lucknow BA, perseverance on our part is showing signs of resolution. Citing a Lucknow BA letter stating "The case is presently under process for compliance and further action will be taken shortly, in accordance with the directions received", DoT has written to CGM UP East Circle, "to expedite the resolution of the case and inform the resolution to the complainant and undersigned ASAP. The matter is very urgent as this PG case is under monitoring (by) Hon'ble MOC."   View the email from DoT to CGM UP East

25.12.2025:

DOT WRITES TO AIBSNLREA REGARDING SENDING OF SMS ALERTS BY PDA AFTER SUBMISSION OF DLC BY THE PENSIONERS:

In continuation of CGCA DoT response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 27.11.2025 posted yesterday (24.12.2025), DoT has written to GS AIBSNLREA, expressing hope that "the facility of sending SMS alerts in case of rejection or non-updation of DLC will be shortly implemented by O/o CGCA". The email further adds that "Please feel free to contact me in case there is anything more to share in this matter."   View the email from DoT

25.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS MONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly GB meeting on 21.12.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri K. Nagrajan, at Hotel Sudershan Palace, MP Nagar, Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary (C), CHQ, Shri O.P. Sharma, Vice President, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary and Dr H S Saxena, Secretary of Branch shared the dais. 50 members attended the meeting. Two minutes of silence was observed in memory of late Shri Chandorkar. Shri NR Soni was felicitated on completion of 75 years. Shri B S Rajput CHQ OS (C) shared the latest information of CHQ meeting and regarding All India Conference to be held at Varanasi in March 2026, and other activities of the association. It was decided to conduct the family get-together function on 4th of January 26 at the Sheesham Tree Hotel. CGHS issue of reimbursement towards purchase of hearing aid was also discussed. Calendar for the year 2026 was distributed to members. Asst.Secretary presented vote of thanks. The meeting was concluded after serving breakfast and sweets.

24.12.2025:

CGCA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 27.11.2025 REQUESTING IMPLEMENTATION OF SMS ALERTS FOR BSNL ABSORBED PENSIONERS ON DLC SUBMISSION THROUGH JEEVAN PRAMAAN:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 27.11.2025 addressed to CGCA drawing attention to DoP&PW OM vide No. 1(3)2022-P&PW(H) dated 20.02.2024 and F.No. 1(2)/2023-P&PW(H) dated 13.01.2025, mandating PDAs to send SMS messages on the same day to ensure continuity of pension and to enable corrective action by pensioners in case of rejection, CGCA has stated that "It is submitted that under the enhanced system of SAMPANN 2.0, a comprehensive alert mechanism has been introduced to ensure timely and targeted dissemination of information to stakeholders. Various alerting tools such as dashboards, system notifications, SMS alerts, emails, and pop-up messages have been implemented. Under this enhanced system, SMS alerts are already being sent to pensioners, including BSNL absorbed pensioners, upon acceptance of their Digital Life Certificate (DLC). However, with regard to sending SMS alerts in cases of rejection or non-updation of DLC after stoppage of pension, it is submitted that this functionality is currently under process. At present, SAMPANN sends SMS alerts automatically to the mobile number registered in its database. In contrast, the Jeevan Pramaan portal allows pensioners to submit their DLC using any mobile number at the time of submission, which may differ from the mobile number registered in SAMPANN. Accordingly, in SAMPANN 2.0, necessary enhancements and system-level improvements are being carried out to enable SMS alerts to be sent to the same mobile number that was used for submitting the DLC on the Jeevan Pramaan portal. This will help ensure accurate and effective communication with pensioners. The said enhancement is presently under development."   View the CGCA reply

23.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA WEST BENGAL STATE HOLDS ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AGB OF AIBSNLREA, West Bengal was held on 12.12.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri S.R.Palit, State President. The meeting started with an opening song by Smt.Ila Sadhu. One Minute silence was observed to pay tribute to the members who had passed away during the intervening period. After a brief welcome speech by the President, State Secretary Shri Kartick De placed his Report before the august House. The audited accounts was presented by the Financial Secretary Shri Umapada Chakraborty. As decided earlier felicitation function for the Super Senior Members was conducted. Out of 93 members who have crossed 80 years, 20 participated in the function. The Association handed over a Memento, a wall clock and a bouquet to each of them. The ceremony ended with a photo session. Thereafter the State Secretary Report and Audited accounts were passed unanimously. The members appreciated the activities of the CHQ and extended full confidence in the day to day activities of the organisation. The meeting was a grand success with massive participation of 245 members. Nine new members were enrolled in the meeting. Calendar and refreshments were also distributed among the members. The meeting ended with the President thanking the participants.  View the Photos

22.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO SECRETARY, DPE POINTING OUT INACCURACY IN CALCULATION OF IDA RATE W.E.F.01.10.2025:

Contesting the reply from DPE that "as per the past practice of calculating IDA rates, average AICPI is rounded off to a single decimal (ignoring the subsequent digits)”, AIBSNLREA has again written to the Secretary, DPE, pointing out that in the past DPE has rounded off the Average AICPI to two decimal places and there is no revision in the methodology. AIBSNLREA has requested his intervention to review calculation of IDA rate w.e.f. 01.10.2025, in light of the methodology recorded in DPE’s earlier note sheet and to issue revised order reflecting the correct IDA rate of 233.3% instead of 233.2% w.e.f. 01.10.2025.   View the letter

22.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA JALANDHAR BRANCH (PUNJAB STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The general body meeting of AIBSNLREA Jalandhar Branch was held on 20.12.2025 at Hotel President, New Court, under the Presidentship of Shri Mohan Lal Sandi, Branch President. Branch Secretary Shri Paramjit Singh welcomed all and spoke on various issues like Revision of pension, initiation of recovery on alleged overpayment by CCA Punjab, non-sanction of additional pension for family pensioner due to non-availability of age proof in SAMPANN. Meeting ended with light refreshment.

21.12.2025:

STATE CONFERENCE OF AIBSNLREA TAMILNADU HELD:

The first State Conference of AIBSNLREA Tamilnadu was conducted on 16-12-2025 under the Presidentship of Shri. V.Dakshinamoorthy in the Conference Hall, RHR Buildings Coimbatore. Nearly 100 delegates participated in the conference. After Presidential Address, Shri R.Damodaran, Secretary, Host Branch delivered Welcome Address. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of those who had passed away during the period. CHQ (OS) Shri. K.Gopinathan, in his Inaugural Address appreciated the activities of Tamilnadu State and the Coimbatore Branch for the wonderful arrangement for the conference. [View Tamilnadu Page of State News section for full report].   View the Photos   View the List of new office bearers

20.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA YAMUNANAGAR BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The general body meeting of AIBSNLREA Yamuna Nagar Branch was held on 15/12/2025 at Gopal Restaurant Yamuna Nagar under the Presidentship of Shri R. P.Tyagi. Branch Secretary Shri S L Purey welcomed all and spoke on various issues like 78.2% IDA fitment from 1.1.2007, Revision of pension, pay revision, restoration of commuted value of pension, amendments to pension rules etc which are being pursued by CHQ. All the participants appreciated the CHQ for taking up with DPE the delay in issue of IDA orders. The meeting ended with the President thanking the participants. Light refreshment was served after the meeting.

19.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT REQUESTING DIRECT LINKAGE OF SAMPANN WITH JEEVAN PRAMAAN FOR IMMEDIATE UPDATION OF DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATES:

Drawing attention of CGCA, DoT to ‘Kalanjiyam’, a mobile application developed by Government of Tamilnadu and meant for its employee/pensioner management, which has been directly integrated with Jeevan Pramaan, enabling pensioners to generate their DLCs seamlessly, AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DoT to take up this matter on priority and initiate steps for direct linkage of SAMPANN with Jeevan Pramaan, in line with the successful model already implemented in Tamil Nadu through Kalanjiyam.   View the letter

18.12.2025:

DPE RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 03.11.2025 ADDRESSED TO SECRETARY, DPE POINTING OUT INACCURACY IN IDA RATE FOR CPSE (2007 PAY REVISION) W.E.F. 01.10.2025:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 03.11.2025 pointing out inaccuracy in IDA rate w.e.f. 01.10.2025 announced by DPE and requesting issue of a corrigendum, DPE has replied that "The IDA has been revised for CPSEs following 2nd PRC at 233.2 per cent. As per the past practice of calculating IDA rates, average AICPI is rounded off to single decimal (ignoring the subsequent digits)". We have requested DPE to furnish the copy of the letter/guidelines through which this practice of ignoring subsequent digits commenced, as according to our knowledge the average AICPI was being rounded off to two decimal places.   View the DPE reply

17.12.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 13.11.2025 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF CHENNAI CAT ORDER DIRECTING REFUND OF R.72,200/- RECOVERED AS EXCESS PAYMENT IN RESPECT OF SHRI R.DAMODARAN, RETD SDE COIMBATORE:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 13.11.2025 regarding Implementation of Chennai CAT order directing refund of Rs.72,200/- recovered as excess payment in respect of Shri R.Damodaran, Retd SDE Coimbatore, AGM (Pers) BSNL CO has replied that the matter is under examination for taking further course of action.   View the BSNL letter

12.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA VALSAD BRANCH (GUJARAT STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Annual General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Valsad Branch was held on 09.11.2025 at the Circuit House Conference Hall under the Presidentship of Shri A.B.Patel. Shri N.J.Nakawala, CWC member, was special invitee. Two minutes' silence was observed in memory of late Shri U.H.Das. Branch Secretary Shri V.J.Suthar gave an overview of association activities and highlighted important issues. Shri N.J.Nakawala, explained the association activities at State level and constitution of VIII CPC. Shri. A. B. Patel detailed the information available in the Sampann portal. Members were guided regarding SAMPANN login creation, supported by screenshots from the site. Joint Secretary Shri A. M. Patel briefed the members about the procedure for claiming family pension and distributed related forms. He also stressed the importance of sharing with the family members all the pension related documents. Shri N.J. Nakawala advised the members who have not yet received medical claims without voucher to give the details so that it can be pursued with the PGMTD office at Surat. Shri R. S. Christian did the anchoring. Shri. M.V. Chaurasiya, Finance Secretary proposed vote of thanks. Meeting ended with lunch.   View the Photos

11.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA LUCKNOW BRANCH (UP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Lucknow Branch was held on 08.12.2025 in Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park under the Presidentship of Shri BL Mishra, Branch President. 27 members attended the meeting. Shri A.K.Sharma, Branch Secretary, welcomed the participants. Organising Secretary Shri Radhey Shyam read the E journal editorial of December 2025 - "Pension Parity at Crossroads -- A Looming Crisis Deepens" Para by Para and all the members appreciated that the editorial aptly explained the present situation. It was decided to hold Triennial Branch Conference and election of delegates in February 2026 for the coming All India Conference. Scope of virtual meetings was discussed. Use of Face Authentication by Jeevan Pramaan App was also discussed. Use of CPGRAMS and CPENGRAMS was explained in detail. It was reported by members that the cases booked in CPGRAMS were closed without resolving the issue. High Tea was served in the meeting. President thanked the participants and declared the meeting closed.   View the Photo

10.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY DOP&PW/DOPT THE NEED FOR CLEAR DIRECTIONS ON MISUSE OF SUBJUDICE CLAUSE IN CPENGRAMS & CPGRAMS GRIEVANCE DISPOSAL:

Drawing attention of Secretary, DoP&PW/DoP&T to the fact that many Grievance Redressal Officers and departmental officials are mechanically closing grievances with remarks such as “the matter is court related” or “matter is subjudice”, even in cases where the word “court” appears in the grievance only in context, without the matter being actually under judicial consideration, AIBSNLREA has requested issue of specific instructions to all Ministries and Departments that only matters pending before courts are to be treated as subjudice.   View the letter

06.12.2025:

E-JOURNAL DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE:

December 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "PENSION PARITY AT CROSSROADS - A LOOMING CRISIS DEEPENS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal December 2025

05.12.2025:

CLOSURE OF NOTICES ISSUED UNDER SECTION 154 CLAIMING ADDITIONAL TAX ON LEAVE ENCASHMENT FOR LEAVE EARNED DURING DOT PERIOD:

AIBSNLREA had been pursuing with Chairman CBDT requesting closure of Notices issued under Section 154 claiming additional tax on leave encashment for leave earned during DoT period in respect of some of the BSNL absorbed pensioners. All the assesses who received notice on this count had duly submitted their reply mentioning about the BSNL letter No.1001-04/2011-12/Taxation/BSNL/LE/176 dated 04.05.2012 and the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, Mumbai orders in ITA No. 3261/Mum/2018. Although no further action has been taken by the Income Tax authorities, there are instances where the additional tax is recovered wherever the assessee is eligible for refund. Non-closure of the notices continues to be a sword of Damocles hanging over their head with adverse action against them by the IT department at any point of time in the future. After a specific case was submitted to the CBDT, the issue has been resolved in respect of the assessee allowing the claim of the assessee and reducing the demand. All the affected pensioners may now submit a representation to the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax/Commissioner of Income Tax of their regions, citing AIBSNLREA letter and the reply received, attaching copies of both our letter and the reply from IT department, by Speed Post. (List of PCCITs with address is available at the end of the attachment)   download the attachment

03.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SR.DDG (ESTT), DOT REGARDING INORDINATE DELAY IN APPROVAL FOR PERMANENT ABSORPTION IN BSNL, IN RESPECT OF SHRI H.S.SUTARIA, RETD JTO, SURAT:

Following the discussions AGS Shri V.P.Arya, had with Sr.DDG (Estt), DoT, AIBSNLREA has now requested her to ensure that approval for permanent absorption in BSNL is issued without further delay.   View the letter

02.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA AMRAVATI BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA, Amravati Branch was held under the Chairmanship of Shri V. G. Dakhode, President on 23.11.2025 in Hotel Kashi Palace, Amravati. 21 members attended the meeting. State OS Shri R. K. Patil and State VP Shri R.Y.Deshmukh were present. Shri S.P.Varma, State Secretary addressed the gathering through video conferencing and answered their queries. Branch Secretary Shri D. V. Rokade informed the house about the developments taken place after the last meeting, grievances resolved and clarified issues raised by the members. It was decided to hold the Branch Conference in February/March 2026. Shri R. Y. Deshmukh explained in detail the organizational developments & the latest position of the Court Case. President Shri V. G. Dakhode highlighted the important pensioner issues pursued at State & All India levels. The meeting concluded with Vote of thanks by Shri M. Z. Shinde, Financial Secretary of the Branch.

01.12.2025:

VIRTUAL MEET OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed all for the last meeting of this year. General Secretary briefed the activities of the association during November 2025 and explained developments in respect of a few grievances of members and general issues of pensioners. He thanked East Godavari Branch for paying Rs.25000 as donation to CHQ as per a decision taken in their Annual General Body meeting. He narrated the efforts by Varanasi Branch and Shri R.K.Sinha, Joint Secretary (CHQ), in searching, locating and fixing a suitable Conference Hall with accommodation for delegates. The office bearers presented the organisational activities in their area. After discussions, it was decided to conduct the next All India Conference at Varanasi on 24th and 25th March 2026. A detailed circular and notification will be issued shortly. President closed the meeting thanking the office bearers for their active participation.

01.12.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE PGM (PERS) BSNL CO REGARDING REVIEW OF PROMOTION FROM JTO (T) TO SDE (T) GRADE ON REGULAR BASIS W.E.F. 01.02.2001 IN RESPECT OF SHRI MUKUNDBHAI N. CHAVDA, RETD SDE (T) SURAT:

Pointing out the unjust and inordinate delay in resolving the issue, AIBSNLREA has now requested PGM (Pers), BSNL CO to ensure completion of the process of review of the regular promotion and subsequent time bound upgradation and consequent issue of promotion orders, without allowing the vigilance clearance to lapse again.   View the letter

27.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA DOT REQUESTING IMPLEMENTATION OF SMS ALERTS ON UPDATION OF DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATE SUBMITTED THROUGH JEEVAN PRAMAAN:

Drawing attention to the DoP&PW instructions dated 20.02.2024 and 13.01.2025 mandating PDAs to send SMS messages on the same day on acceptance/rejection of the DLC, to ensure continuity of pension and to enable corrective action by pensioners in case of rejection, AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DoT to instruct the team handling SAMPANN to implement SMS alerts for BSNL absorbed pensioners regarding acceptance/rejection of DLC submitted through Jeevan Pramaan.   View the letter

26.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE PGM (ADMN) BSNL CO REQUESTING HIM TO TAKE DECISIVE ACTION BY ISSUING SUITABLE INSTRUCTIONS TO UP EAST CIRCLE TO IMMEDIATELY CLEAR THE PENDING MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI RAVI KUMAR TANDON:

Drawing attention to the letter dated 04.11.2025 addressed to GS AIBSNLREA, CGM UP (E) has been requested to furnish a copy of the said letter carrying ‘specific instructions’ regarding approval in case of medical card revalidation in subsequent year, to enable proper examination of the matter and ensure that the claims are adjudicated strictly in accordance with BSNL MRS rules.   View the letter

25.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGMT UP (EAST) CIRCLE REQUESTING COPY OF THE LETTER CARRYING 'SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS' REGARDING APPROVAL OF CASE OF MEDICAL CARD REVALIDATION IN SUBSEQUENT YEAR:

Drawing attention to the reply furnished to GS AIBSNLREA by UP East Circle, AIBSNLREA has written to the PGM (Admn) BSNL CO making it clear that it is now imperative for the Corporate Office to take decisive action by issuing suitable instructions to UP East Circle to immediately clear the pending medical claims of Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon.   View the letter

24.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPERATIONALISATION OF EMPANELLED HOSPITALS IN RAJAMAHENDRAVARAM:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of DG CGHS to the fact that CGHS beneficiaries are unable to avail themselves of CGHS services in two empanelled hospitals in Rajamahendravaram, due to their inability to onboard CGHS software platforms and has requested to resolve the issue.   View the letter

22.11.2025:

BSNL UP EAST CIRCLE FURNISHES THE SAME REPLY AGAIN TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 28.07.2025 ADDRESSED TO CMD BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS IN RESPECT OF SHRI RAVI KUMAR TANDON RETD AGM LUCKNOW:

Despite specific reference this time from BSNL Corporate Office, CGM UP East Circle furnishes the same reply (received on 21.11.2025) as given by GM TD Lucknow, without even taking note of our contention and the fact that Shri R.K.Tandon had got his MRS card revalidated on 14.05.2019, saying "specific instructions are available permitting approval of medical claims of past Financial Year based on card revalidation done on subsequent year", without providing any reference or copy of such instructions. AIBSNLREA will further pursue the issue as the stance taken by GMTD Lucknow and CGMT UP East is untenable.   View the BSNL reply

20.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA PRAYAGRAJ BRANCH (UTTAR PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Branch Conference of AIBSNLREA, Prayagraj, was convened on 15 November 2025, on the 4th floor of the CTO Compound, under the esteemed Presidentship of Shri R. S. Gupta. After welcome address by the President, the house warmly felicitated senior members aged 75 years and above. Secretary Shri S. M. Tiwari presented the minutes of the previous meeting and Branch Secretary’s Report, which were adopted unanimously. [View Uttar Pradesh Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photo

19.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal Branch held its monthly GB meeting on 16.11.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri K. Nagarajan, at Indian Coffee House, PHQ Jahangirabad, Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ, Shri O.P. Sharma, Vice President, Shri DK Verma, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary and Dr H S Saxena, Secretary of Branch shared the dais. 52 members attended the meeting. Two new members, Shri Kirti Parate and Shri S.k.Jain joined the association. Shri J P Shrivastava was felicitated on completion of 75 years. Shri B S Rajput CHQ OS (C) explained regarding pension contribution by BSNL to the DOT and other activities of the association. It was decided to conduct Dewali Milan and new year celebration on 4th January 2026 at Hotel Sheesham Tree, ISBT, Bhopal. Shri Gotam narrated the incident of Cyber arrest phone call received by him and how he managed the situation in detail. Shri G N Shrivastava appraised the members about Sanchar Saathi Mobile App. Calander of Lala Ram Swaroop for the year 2026 was gifted to all members. Secretary presented vote of thanks. The meeting was concluded after serving snacks and sweets.   View the Photos

18.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REQUESTING EARLY ESTABLISHMENT OF AD CGHS OFFICE IN THE STATE OF ANDHRA PRADESH:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS, drawing her attention to the long-pending matter of establishing an Additional Director (AD) CGHS office in the newly formed State of Andhra Pradesh. Although the State was reorganized more than twelve years ago, and sanction for an AD office at Visakhapatnam was accorded long back, no concrete steps have yet been taken by the Ministry of Health or the Directorate General of CGHS to operationalize the office. AIBSNLREA has requested her to take immediate steps to operationalise the sanctioned AD CGHS office in Andhra Pradesh.   View the letter

18.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA KOLHAPUR BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA, Kolhapur Branch held its Qtly meeting on 9th November 2025 at BSNL conference Hall, Kolhapur under the Presidentship of Shri P S Kulkarni. 50 members attended the meeting from Kolhapur, Sangli, Ichalkaranji . After prayer, two minutes silence was observed in memory of Shri G D Kulkarni and Shri Korajgaonkar. [View Maharashtra Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photos

17.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body Meeting of Kurukshetra Branch was held on 12th November 2025 in Haryana Tourism Yatri Niwas Kurukshetra. 30 members were present. Branch President Shri S K Verma presided over the meeting. After welcome address by the Branch Secretary Shri Rajvir Singh Chaudhary, silence was observed in memory of late Smt. [View Haryana Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photo

15.11.2025:

CBDT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA APPEAL SUBMITTED ON 25.08.2024 W.R.T LETTER DATED 14.06.2024 REQUESTING CLOSURE OF NOTICES ISSUED UNDER SECTION 154 CLAIMING ADDITIONAL TAX ON LEAVE ENCASHMENT FOR LEAVE EARNED DURING DOT PERIOD IN RESPECT OF BSNL ABSORBED PENSIONERS:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 14.06.2024, subsequent appeal on 25.08.2024 citing a specific case, followed by reminders, CBDT has now informed us that "In this regard, JAO has intimated that 154 order has been passed on 13.11.2025 allowing the claim of the assessee and reduced the demand. Copy of order is attached for reference".   View the CBDT reply

15.11.2025:

CCA MAHARASHTRA & GOA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 23.10.2025 REGARDING NON-GRANT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON COMPLETING 80 YEARS - CASE OF SHRI PREM SINGH KHER RETD.SDE, WTR, INDORE:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 23.10.025 on the subject, CCA Maharashtra & Goa has informed us that "the matter has been resolved. It is intimated that the arrears due to Additional Quantum and Commutation revision paid through supplementary bill on 07.11.2025 and 14.11.2025 (Payment Report attached)."   View the email & Report

15.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHANDIGARH BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A bimonthly meeting of Chandigarh Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 12-11-2025at Hotel Pearl Industrial Area II Chandigarh, under the Presidentship of Shri M.D.Bhasin, Branch President. After welcome address by the Branch Secretary Shri M.K. Kalra, Shri Lokesh Chopra appraised the house of latest developments at BSNL and DOT levels. President explained about issues regarding CGHS, CCA office, Life Certificate and issue of Identity cards for pensioners. 8th pay commission and its impact on BSNL pensioners, IDA increase were also discussed. The Silver Jubilee of CCA Punjab which was celebrated on 25-10-25 and a commendation certificate along with a trophy to honour the presence of AIBSNLREA Chandigarh members by CCA Punjab. Later on, health issues and their remedy through Yoga were also discussed. Shri Muni Lal gave tips on how to control prostate enlargement through Yoga. The meeting ended with serving lunch.

14.11.2025:

DOP&PW CONDUCTS REVIEW MEETING WITH PENSIONER ASSOCIATIONS ON DLC 4.0:

A virtual review meeting of DoP&PW with Pensioner Associations, Chaired by Secretary (Pension) was held today. After introductory remarks by Chairman, all the registered associations were called individually to share their views. On behalf of AIBSNLREA, General Secretary praised the excellent effort by DoP&PW and conveyed that our Branches are taking part in the DLC camps organised by DoT, although BSNL pensioners submit their LC in different months throughout the year. He said that our members are regularly guided over using face authentication and now more than 80% of the members submit DLC oon their own. Secretary (Pension) informed the participants that 1 crore pensioners across the country have already submitted their life certificates and requested the Pensioner Associations to continue their efforts so as to meet the target of 2 crore pensioners. Joint Secretary (Pension) said the campaign was progressing well and requested all to chalk out day-wise plan to ensure maximum submission of DLC. The Chairman closed the meeting after thanking the participants.

14.11.2025:

DOP&PW FORWARDS OUR EJOURNAL-NOVEMBER 2025 CARRYING THE EDITORIAL 'BSNL MUST NOT ABANDON ITS PENSIONERS' TO DOT FOR NECESSARY ACTION:

At the instance of Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW has forwarded AIBSNLREA Ejournal of November 2025, carrying the Editorial "BSNL MUST NOT ABANDON ITS PENSIONERS' to DoT requesting to look into the matter and resolve the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time bound manner under intimation to this department and the concerned pensioner about the action taken. It is requested that status of the action taken in this case may be intimated within 21 days.   View the email

14.11.2025:

MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD BY DOP&PW WITH PENSIONER ASSOCIATIONS ON 16.10.2025:

DoP&PW has released the minutes of the meeting held under the Chairmanship of Secretary (P&PW) with Pensioners Association held on 16.10.2025, in which AIBSNLREA was represented by Shri V.Chinnapappiah,CHQ President.   View the Minutes

13.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REQUESTING IMPLEMENTATION OF CHENNAI CAT ORDER DIRECTING REFUND OF Rs.72,200/- RECOVERED AS EXCESS PAYMENT - CASE OF SHRI R.DAMODARAN, RETD. SDE COIMBATORE:

AIBSNLREA has sought the intervention of Director (HR) BSNL in the matter, requesting him to direct Personnel Section of BSNL Corporate office to cause implementation of Chennai CAT orders mentioned above and refund of the amount along with interest without further delay.   View the letter

12.11.2025:

CGHS UPDATES CONTACT INFORMATION OF ADDITIONAL DIRECTORS (OUTSIDE DELHI) CGHS:

CGHS has released the contact list of its Additional Directors (Outside Delhi) for different cities, updated on 04.11.2025.   View the list

10.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CHAIRMAN CBDT REQUESTING ISSUE OF A COMMON ORDER BASED ON ITAT CHANDIGARH ORDER DATED 30.05.2025 :

In view of recent decisions by Addl/JCIT (A) Raipur and Ranchi, AIBSNLREA has again requested Chairman, CBDT to issue common instructions to allow the benefit of tax exemption to all BSNL VRS retirees whenever they submit individual requests to the A.O. concerned, so as to avoid unnecessary waste of resources both on the part of the individual assessees and also the CITs.   View the letter

08.11.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA VADODARA BRANCH (GUJARAT STATE) HELD:

AIBSNLREA Vadodara Branch held its General Body meeting on 05.11.2025 at Hotel Utsav. 55 members attended the meeting. Digital Life Certificate Campaign 4.0 was run at the venue. Executive committee members visited the residence of ailing members to help them generate digital life certificates. Branch President Shri R T Shah briefed about IDA & pension revision issues. Branch Secretary, Shri A B Joshi regarding safety precautions in bank transactions, CCA related and general issues. Branch Vice President Shri S Z Tailor gave vote of Thanks. Delicious lunch was served after the meeting.

08.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS MONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly GB meeting on 26.10.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri R.P.Shrivastava, at Indian Coffee House, New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ, Shri Arvind Sinha, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary and Dr H S Saxena, Secretary of Branch shared the dais. 39 members attended the meeting. One new member, Shri P. C. Garwal joined the association. Shri Sharad Sahasrabudhe and Shri B S Rajput were felicitated on completion of 75 years. Shri B S Rajput CHQ OS (C) spoke on latest developments regarding pension contribution by BSNL to the DOT and other activities of the association. It was decided to conduct Dewali Milan and new year celebration in the month of January 2026. Shri AK Balpande, Asstt. Secretary presented a vote of thanks. The meeting was concluded after serving snacks and sweets.   View the Photos

07.11.2025:

VISIT TO BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:

AIBSNLREA AGS Shri V.P.Arya visited BSNL CO yesterday (06.11.2025) and discussed pending issues with available officers. In respect of Shri M.N.Chavda, fresh VC has been received and work for holding review DPC has been initiated. On implementation of Chennai CAT orders on stepping up of pay on par with juniors, the matter is still under examination, but a positive outcome is expected. Other issues could not be discussed due to non-availability of concerned officers.

06.11.2025:

E-JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2025 ISSUE:

November 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "BSNL MUST NOT ABANDON ITS PENSIONERS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal November 2025

04.11.2025:

GOVERNMENT ISSUES GAZETTE NOTIFICATION ON CONSTITUTION AND TERMS OF REFERENCE OF VIII CPC:

Government of India has issued Gazette notification formally constituting the Eighth Central Pay Commission and notifying its Terms of Reference. Confirming the worst fears of Central Government Pensioners following enactment of Validation Legislation as part of Finance Act 2025, the Terms of Reference is silent about revision of pension of past pensioners, unlike the Terms of Reference of VI and VII CPCs. While the TOR of VI CPC directed examining "the principles which should govern pension, DCRG, family pension and other terminal benefits having financial implications to the present and former Central Government employees", VII CPC had a specific TOR - "To examine the principles which should govern the structure of pension and other retirement benefits, including revision of pension in the case of employees who have retired prior to the date of effect of these recommendations."   View the Resolution

03.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DPE POINTING OUT THE INACCURACY IN CALCULATION OF IDA RATE W.E.F 01.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of the Secretary, DPE to the fact that the calculation, based on the average of the AICPI (IW) figures for the months of June, July, & August 2025, applying the conversion factor of 2.88 and using base index of 126.33, yields a revised IDA rate of 233.3%, not 233.2%, in respect of CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007 and has requested him that the discrepancy may be examined, and a corrigendum be issued at the earliest to reflect the correct IDA rate of 233.3% for CPSEs under the 2007 pay revision.   View the letter

01.11.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS MEET VIRTUALLY:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. After introductory briefing by President, General Secretary spelt out the activities of the association during October 2025, developments that happened including wage agreement between BSNL unions and Management, AIBSNLREA's letter to Secretary DoT on relaxing affordability clause and rejecting the notion of 0% fitment, Revision of CGHS rates, disappointing order of DoT restricting the benefit of higher scales for organised accounts cadre only to the applicants, our letter to Prime Minister on the matter, delayed issue of IDA rate revision orders, DLC 4.0, decision of cabinet on Terms of Reference for VIII CPC, miscalculation of IDA rate and status of implementation of ITAT Chandigarh order. Both the President and the General Secretary were appreciative of the massive attendance, arrangements, emotion filled honouring of members, rapt attention by the participants during speeches till the end and the hard work behind it - talking about their experience on being present in the East Godavari Branch AGB meeting. All the Office bearers then narrated the activities in their area and expressed their view on the developments listed by the General Secretary. Shri B.S.Rajput OS (N) invited attention stating that non-members are invited to attend all Branch meetings in MP State and most of them become members in the meeting itself. After discussions it was decided that another letter should go to CBDT on the ITAT Chandigarh order and a brief on the matter explaining the status to the members be issued. Members will be guided towards submitting individual representation for condoning delay for filing revised ITR. Attention of DPE will be drawn towards the inaccuracy in its IDA orders. All the office bearers will co-ordinate with the State/Branch Secretaries to ensure that the VRS retired Executives who have not taken membership in any pensioner association are enrolled as members of AIBSNLREA. With Varanasi Branch already having offered to host next AIC, the office bearers will look out for more options so that the venue is finalised in the next meeting. The meeting lasted for more than two and a half hours and ended with the President expressing happiness over the cohesive functioning of the CHQ.

31.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA KANPUR BRANCH (UP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Kanpur Branch was held on 30.10.2025 at Room No. 803 of the Telecom Building, Mall Road under the Presidentship of Shri S. B. Saini. Several senior members attended the meeting, and the presence of Shri M. V. Khan, who had travelled from Kannauj, was appreciated by house.The Financial Secretary, Shri Lal Singh, and Vice President, Shri J. L. Maurya, addressed the gathering. A committee was formed to provide immediate emergency assistance to senior members. The nodal officers of this committee will be Shri Lal Singh and Shri J. L. Maurya. Shri A. K. Katiyar, Shri R. K. Srivastava, and Shri Kaushalendra Singh will be members. Shri V. S. Awasthi, Secretary was designated as an ex-officio member. The contact numbers of all committee members will be shared with all the members so that help can be provided whenever needed. Shri D. P. Sahu, retired DE, joined as a new member. President shared valuable suggestions for healthy living.

31.10.2025:

ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA EAST GODAVARI BRANCH (AP STATE) HELD:

The Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA East Godavari Branch was held on 26.10.2025 from morning till evening in a cordial atmosphere at the Surya Hotel Conference Hall, Rajahmundry under the Presidentship of Shri G.V.Ramakrishna, President. Secretary Shri G.S.V.S.S. Varaprasad had strained his nerves to bring maximum number of members to the meeting. As a result nearly 130 members attended the meeting. A team comprising FS Shri KBS Naidu, Asst. Secretaries Shri VVR Satyanarayana, Shri S.Ramakrishna, AFS Shri BM Prasad, Shri S. Satyanarayana, Shri S. Mosess Kumar, Shri G, Muralikrishna, Shri U. Suryanarayana, Shri KS Prakasarao, Shri U.Maheswara Rao, Shri A Rajagopala Rao and Shri Sivabhaskar ensured success of the meeting. [View Andhra Pradesh Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photos

31.10.2025:

DoP&PW STIPULATES SUBMISSION OF LIFE CERTIFICATES BY BOTH PARENTS IN CASE OF ENHANCED FAMILY PENSION PAYABLE TO THEM AS PER CCS (EOP) RULES 1939/2023:

DoP&PW has issued an O.M vide F.No.1/11/2025-P&PW(F)(11190) dated 28.10.2025 conveying the decision that henceforth in the cases of enhanced Family Pension payable to both the parents, Life Certificates will be submitted by both the parents every year to avoid overpayment in case of demise of one of the parents.   View the DoP&PW OM

31.10.2025:

DoP&PW REITERATES ITS CLARIFICATION ON THE RULE POSITION WITH REFERENCE TO LEGALITY OF MARRIAGE / SPOUSE WHEN THE GOVERNMENT SERVAN/PENSIONER IS SURVIVED BY MORE THAN ONE WIDOW:

DoP&PW has issued an O.M vide F.No.1/1(33)/2024-P&PW(E)/9629 dated 27.10.2025 reiterating that the Ministries/Departments shall follow the process of consultation with Dept. of Legal Affairs before arriving at decision regarding settlement of Family Pension between two wives under CCS (Pension) Rules, 2021. Such cases must be brought to the notice of the officer dealing with the pensioners' benefits in the respective Ministry/Department by the attached/subordinate offices etc.   View the DoP&PW OM

30.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA REPRESENTS TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA REQUESTING IMPLEMENTATION OF COURT DECISION ON ORGANISED ACCOUNTS CADRE FOR ALL SIMILARLY PLACED BSNL PENSIONERS:

Expressing grave concern of organized accounts cadre of BSNL, by the recent decision of the Department of Expenditure (DoE), conveyed through the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) OM vide F.No.37-18/2023-SEA-(Legal) dated 07.10.2025, to restrict the implementation of judicial orders, which have attained finality, strictly to the 14 applicants in OA No. 2544/2015 before Principal CAT, Delhi and drawing attention to several Supreme Court judgments, AIBSNLREA has requested the Prime Minister of India to intervene and to advise the Department of Expenditure to re-examine the matter and to implement the above judgment for all similarly placed pensioners of BSNL.   View the letter

29.10.2025:

DPE ISSUES ORDERS FOR REVISED RATE OF IDA W.E.F 01.10.2025:

DPE has issued orders for revision of IDA w.e.f. 01.10.2025 payable at the rate of 233.2% for CPSEs following 2007 pay scales.   View the DPE OM

29.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA AMBALA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A general body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 25.10.2025 at Central Phoenix Club Ambala Cantt under the Presidentship of Shri R K Sharma Branch President and was attended by 35 members. After welcome address by President, Shri Kirpal Singh Bawa, who has completed 75 years of age was felicitated. All the branch members congratulated on the special achievement of our member Shri M K Maini who was conferred a honorary Doctorate Degree in Computers by a US University in a special function organised in New Delhi. [View Haryana Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photos

29.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA INDORE BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Indore Branch held it's GB meeting on 25.10.2025 at Indian coffee house regal square Indore under the Presidentship of Shri S K Jain Branch President. 49 members attended the meeting. 2 new members joined the association. After welcome address by the President, Branch secretary Shri NC Yadav explained about the wage revision agreement with the unions. He gave detailed information regarding the pension contribution order. He also briefed the house regarding the activities of the CHQ, case of Shri PS Kher and evaluation of pensioners welfare association. Meeting ended with a vote of thanks by Shri RB Bake. Assistant Secretary.   View the Photos

29.10.2025:

SPECIAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA DELHI CIRCLE HELD:

A Special General Body Meeting of the Delhi Circle of AIBSNLREA was held on 16th October 2025 at Arya Samaj Mandir, 15 Hanuman Road, New Delhi under the Presidentship of Shri Rakesh Tiwari, President. In his welcome address, appealed to all members to strengthen the Association by enrolling new members. Shri Devesh Kumar, Circle Secretary presented a brief account of the activities of the Circle. [View Delhi Page of State News section for full report]   View the Photo

28.10.2025:

CABINET APPROVES TERMS OF REFERENCE OF 8TH CENTRAL PAY COMMISSION:

The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the Terms of Reference of 8th Central Pay Commission. The Commission will comprise one Chairperson; One Member (Part Time) and one Member-Secretary. It will make its recommendations within 18 months of the date of its constitution. It may consider, if necessary, sending interim reports on any of the matters as and when the recommendations are finalized.   View the PIB Press Release

28.10.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 03.09.2025 REGARDING UNIFORM SUPPLY OF INSULIN PENS COMPATIBLE WITH PRESCRIBED CARTRIDGES:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 03.09.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS requesting to ensure one-time supply of reusable insulin pens across all wellness centres and to provide compatible pens whenever there is a change in the brand of insulin cartridge, CGHS has informed us that "whenever insulin cartridges are issued to the beneficiary, insulin pens are also provided by making local arrangements with the manufacturers/suppliers to avoid inconvenience to the beneficiary in CGHS Chennai."   View the CGHS reply

24.10.2025:

CVC FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 08.09.2025 ADDRESSED TO CMD BSNL AND COPY MARKED TO CVC REGARDING HARASSMENT OF BSNL PENSIONERS UNDER MAHARASHTRA TELECOM CIRCLE JURISDICTION BY ISSUING CHARGE SHEETS AFTER RETIREMENT IN VIOLATION OF EXTANT RULES, TO CVO BSNL FOR NECESSARY ACTION:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter to CMD BSNL on 08.09.2025 drawing his attention to hundreds of charge sheets issued to BSNL pensioners (after retirement) under Maharashtra Telecom Circle which are procedurally invalid, legally unsustainable and lacking authority, copy of which was marked to Central Vigilance Commissioner. CVC has now registered our letter as a complaint and has forwarded it to CVO BSNL, for necessary action. As per the Complaint Handling Policy, the Commission expects the CVO to scrutinize the complaint for necessary action by the Commission and decide action on such complaint. As advised by the Commission to keep the complaint number confidential, we have removed the number in the letter published here.   View the CVC letter

23.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA EAST GODAVARI BRANCH TO HOLD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Annual General body meeting of AIBSNLREA East Godavari Branch will be held at 5th Floor, Hotel Surya Rajahmundry from 0930 to 1730 Hrs on 26-10-2025. Members who have crossed 75/80 years will be felicitated. CHQ president Shri V.Chinnapappiah and General Secretary Shri R.R.Balasubramanian will be Special Guests. All members are cordially invited to attend - GSVSS Varaprasad, Secretary

23.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA DOT REGARDING NON-GRANT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON COMPLETING THE AGE OF 80 - CASE OF SHRI PREM SINGH KHER, RETD SDE WTR, INDORE:

Drawing attention of CGCA DoT to non-grant of additional quantum of pension on completing the age of 80 in respect of Shri Prem Singh Kher, Retd SDE, WTR, Indore, due to wrong mention of his date of birth in new PPO, AIBSNLREA has requested her to direct CCA Maharashtra & Goa to immediately grant the additional quantum of pension w.e.f. 01.08.2025, to restore the second portion of the commuted pension due from 10.11.2023 and to refund the excess recovered amount.   View the letter

22.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY DPE ON DELAY IN ISSUE OF ORDERS FOR REVISION OF IDA RATE YET AGAIN:

Conveying the growing concern and disappointment among BSNL pensioners regarding the recurring and unexplained delays in the issuance of orders for revision of IDA rates, yet again for the period commencing 1.10.2025, AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary, DPE requesting his personal intervention to ensure the immediate issuance of the IDA revision order w.e.f. 1.10.2025 and to institute measures that will prevent such delays in the future, thereby safeguarding the dignity and peace of mind of BSNL pensioners.   View the letter

21.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH (KERALA STATE) HOLDS ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Annual General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Palakkad Branch was held on Tuesday the 14-10-2025 at Top in Town Auditorium, Palakkad under the Presidentship of Shri T.Ramanathan, President. 45 members including ladies and super senior citizens attended the meeting from different parts of the district. After silent prayers in memory of the departed members, ShriP.Prabhakaran, Secretary welcomed the members. [View Kerala Page of State News section for full report]   View the List of office bearers

20.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA PUNE BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Pune Branch held its GB meeting on 17th October 2025 in “Varradshri Sabhagruha ”, 1308A,Sukravar Peth,Natu Bauh Chouk, Bajirao Road, Pune under the Presidentship of Shri Prakhad Vitthalrao Deshmukh. After his address, Shri Agnihotri rendered prayer song. S/Shri Avinash Bishnupant Dharmadhikari, Randive Ashok Anantrao, Gadgekar Subhas Gunichandra, Dattatrya Kallappa Kumbhar and i Giramkar Pohan Mahadeo were felicitated on their attaining the age of 75. Birthday Celebration of 39 members whose date of birth falls between 1st July and 30th September 2025 was held by offering Rose Flower. Secretary Dr G.K.Patil submitted summary report and was unanimously accepted. Shri SAnjay Kulkarni, Financial Secretary submitted financial report which was passed unanimously. The meeting decided to offer hosting of State Conference in Pune. Secretary replied to various queries from members. Dr Tanmay Kulkarni, International Cardiologist &TAVI Expert, Jupiter Hospital Baner, Pune, gave presentation about TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve). He also mentioned that TAVI surgery costing about Rs 12,80,000/- is available cashless to CGHS Card holders in Jupiter Hospital Baner, Pune. Vote of Thanks was given by Dr G.K.Patil, followed by delicious lunch. 92 members were present. DLC generation activity was conducted along with the meeting.  View the Photos

18.10.2025:

DOP&PW HOLDS VIRTUAL MEET WITH PENSIONER ASSOCIATIONS:

A virtual meeting of DOP&PW with the pensioner associations was held on 16.10.2025, chaired by Secretary DOP&PW. CHQ President Shri V.Chinnapappiah represented AIBSNLREA. Joint Secretary, in his address requested the participants to be actively involved in the proposed DLC 4.0 to be commenced on 3rd November 2025 at Ahmedabad. While DLC 1.0 covered 37 locations in 2022, DLC4.0 has an ambitious target of covering 2000 locations including semi urban cities. Targets for DLCs to be generated and submitted is 1.62 crore. Out of these, target for Facial authentication is 75 lakhs. Secretary (pension) requested all Pensioners Associations to nominate volunteers for visits to Hospitals for getting DLCs from sick pensioners, for awareness drives and for coordination with all stake holders. He sought cooperation and involvement of pensioner associations to make DLC 4.0 a success.

15.10.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 02.09.2025 ADDRESSED TO THE DG CGHS REQUESTING HER TO ADVISE AD CGHS LUCKNOW TO WITHDRAW THE INSTRUCTION REQUIRING THREE QUOTATIONS FOR APPROVING TESTS NOT INCLUDED IN CGHS RATE LIST:

AIBSNLREA had drawn the attention of DG CGHS to the instruction issued by AD CGHS Lucknow mandating that CGHS beneficiaries must obtain three quotations to from different laboratories, when a required investigation/test is not included in the CGHS rate list, for approval by the AD and requested her to advise AD CGHS Lucknow to withdraw the said instruction immediately and to issue a clarification allowing beneficiaries to avail such investigations/tests without need for multiple quotations. CGHS Directorate has replied that "We apologize for the inconvenience. There is no provision for obtaining three quotations for non-scheduled procedures when granting permission. Sometimes, if there is any confusion, the quotation copy is cross-checked".   View the CGHS response

14.10.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 11.09.2025 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF RETIREMENT TRAVELLING ALLOWANCE CLAIM IN RESPECT OF B.M.NYAMATI, RETD CAO BENGALURU:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 11.09.2025, BSNL BG TD has informed us that payment cannot be made based on photo copies and representation made after lapse of 5 years without evidence of submission of original TA bill. AIBSNLREA has requested to check with the AO Claims concerned, now working in CGM office, who had been assuring him that the bills are with him and will be cleared in due course.   View the BSNL letter

13.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY DOT REQUESTING HIM TO INITIATE CABINET NOTE FOR RELAXING AFFORDABILITY CLAUSE FOR BSNL:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Secretary, DoT to recent public addresses by the Prime Minister of India and the Minister of Communications substantiating the justifications for relaxing affordability by BSNL, reiterated that there is no provision for 0% fitment in the DPE orders for pay fixation and has requested to initiate the cabinet note for relaxing the affordability clause and ensure a dignified fitment, in line with BSNL’s strategic role and the expectations of its workforce.   View the letter

13.10.2025:

PUBLIC NOTICE/ADVISORY TO CGHS BENEFICIARIES:

CGHS has issued instructions to pensioner beneficiaries of CGHS who are eligible for credit, following implementation of revised CGHS rates w.e.f 13.10.2025. CGHS pensioner beneficiaries are to take note of the admissible and non-admissible items in Annexure-2, in order to check any deviation by the HCOs (empanelled hospitals).   View the letter

10.10.2025:

REPORT OF WAGE REVISION COMMITTEE ON REVISION OF PAY & ALLOWANCES OF NON-EXECUTIVE EMPLOYEES:

An agreement has finally been reached in the Joint Wage Negotiation Committee meeting held on 08.10.2025, with the recognised unions accepting the same pay scales which BSNL had proposed more than two years back, going back from the consensus reached on new pay scales in July 2018. Unions could not achieve any improvement in the BSNL proposed pay scales despite waiting for more than two years. Now the service associations and unions should waste no time and should press for cabinet note by DoT for relaxing affordability clause, as BSNL does not meet this requirement even today. They should also ensure that the fitment is as per DPE guidelines for 3rd PRC, remembering that there is no provision for 0% fitment in the DPE guidelines.   View the Report

10.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA SHIMLA BRANCH (HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The monthly meeting of AIBSNLREA Shimla branch was held on 08.10.2025. The meeting appreciated the efforts of CHQ for more than a decade in settling the pension contribution issue. Discussions were held about settling the pending notional increment cases. As Shri Jaswant Singh, Branch President and Shri Munish Chauhan, Branch Secretary have shifted from Shimla and are unable to attend meetings on regular basis. It was decided that Shri Hans Raj Thakur and Shri Kishori Lal Thakur will act as President and Secretary respectively till next AGB.

09.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA VARANASI BRANCH (UP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Varanasi Branch was held on 8th October 2025 in the CTX Compound, Varanasi under the Presidentship of Shri P. M. Ansari. One minute silence was observed in memory of members who had passed away. Branch Secretary Shri Yad Ali briefed the house on various local issues and the matter of Notional Increment for eligible members. Discussions were also held on pending medical claims. The Branch expressed its gratitude to CHQ for its special efforts in facilitating the settlement of medical payment to Shri Prakash Dube. Further, information regarding queries related to CGHS and CCA was shared by the Branch Secretary. The house passed a resolution concerning the forthcoming All India Conference, expressing the readiness of the Varanasi Branch to host it, subject to CHQ guidelines. Members who have attained the age of 75 years were felicitated. 26 members attended the meeting. The house also welcomed a new Life Member, Shri S. K. Bhadani. Light refreshments were served to all members. President Shri P. M. Ansari thanked all members present for their active participation and declared the meeting closed.   View the Photos

08.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY DOT REGARDING STRICT ADHERENCE TO DOP&PW INSTRUCTIONS DATED 30.11.2021 AS THE ESSENCE OF THE INSTRUCTIONS HAVE BEEN UPHELD BY THE HON'BLE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Secretary, DoT to a recent Supreme Court judgment categorically observing that caste verification after retirement will be “largely academic” and “will not serve any purpose”, thus upholding the essence of the instructions contained in DoP&PW OM dated 30.11.2021 and to BSNL complying with the orders of Madras High Court citing the SC judgment in respect of a BSNL VRS 2019 retiree and has requested to rescind DoT letter No.40-09/2022-Pen(T) dated 30.01.2025; direct BSNL to strictly adhere to the DoP&PW OM dated 30.11.2021 and cease all actions that contravene its provisions; ensure that all pensionary benefits due to these retired employees are released without delay, irrespective of caste verification status and declare all charge sheets issued post-retirement on this ground as null and void, restoring dignity and justice to the affected pensioners.   View the letter

06.10.2025:

REVISED CGHS RATES APPLICABLE FOR TREATMENT AT HEALTHCARE ORGANISATION (HC0):

In supersession of all previous memoranda, CGHS has notified CGHS package rates effective from 13.10.2025, applicable to all CGHS empanelled hospitals, Medical reimbursement claims in respect of CGHS beneficiaries and CGHS treatment extended to Central Government employees and other specified categories of beneficiaries as per extant rules. [The list is available in Important orders as well as Left Column of AIBSNLREA website]   View the CGHS Notification

06.10.2025:

E-JOURNAL OCTOBER 2025 ISSUE:

October 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "BSNL AT 25 - A STRATEGIC ASSEST IN NEED OF STRUCTURAL REFORM" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal October 2025

03.10.2025:

AIBSNLREA YAMUNANAGAR BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Yamuna Nagar Branch was held on 29/9/2025 at Gopal Restaurant Yamuna Nagar under the Chairmanship of Shri MCK Mittal. Branch Secretary Shri S L Purey welcomed the gathering and thanked them for attending the meeting during fasting days of holi Navratras. The latest status of various issues like 78.2,% IDA fitment from 1/1/2007, Revision of pension, Wage revision, Notional increment and restoration of commuted portion of pension in 12 years were explained by him. All the participants appreciated the CHQ for ensuring regular payment of pension around 26th of every month. The members wanted to take up the case at CHQ level to get more hospitals empanelled under CGHS. Meeting ended with light refreshment.

02.10.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 25.08.2025 REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM FOR INDOOR TREATMENT TAKEN IN THE YEAR 2017 - CASE OF SHRI PRAKASH DUBEY RETD SR.SDE VARANASI:

In a response to AIBSNLREA letter datd 25.08.2025 addressed to Director (HR) BSNL regarding non-payment of medical claim for indoor treatment taken in the year 2017 – case of Shri Prakash Dubey, Retd Sr.SDE, Varanasi and subsequent appeal, BSNL Varanasi BA has now replied that indoor medical claim of Smt.Shanti Devi, w/o Sri Prakash dubey payment process has been initiated and expected to be paid within 6 to 7 weeks.   View the BSNL reply

01.10.2025:

VIRTUAL MEET OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The virtual meet of AIBSNLREA CHQ Office Bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed the participants expressing contentment over the prompt attendance of office bearers, in the midst of the festivities. General Secretary then briefed about the activities during the past month. He explained about AIBSNLREA's lonely role in achieving the pension contribution on existing pay instead of on maximum of the pay scales. He detailed the recent improvements done in CPENGRAMS wherein specific grievances are assigned to higher authorities in DoT to ensure final resolution, DoP&PW's strict monitoring the process which has resulted in the nodal authorities and the concerned officials taking the grievances seriously and acting on them with seriousness. He drew attention to the supplementary affidavit filed by DoT in a contempt proceedings in CAT Chandigarh Circuit Bench at Shimla, claiming authority to classify pensioners and to maintain distinctions based on the date of retirement, making the Government's intention clear. To a query, he replied that DoT may submit such an affidavit in our case in Delhi High Court on 78.2% fitment too, but it may not affect our case as our argument and prayer are entirely different. GS pointed out that after our repeated pursuance, Labour Bureau which had been delaying publishing of AICPI (IW) for many quarters has finally come around and published the August 2025 figures this time as per rules 'on the last working day of the succeeding month'. He explained the ITAT Chandigarh orders, its implications, provisions of IT Act Section 10(10B) and 10(10C), time limit for submission of revised ITR and the need to get the delay condoned. There were threadbare discussions on the issue. It was decided that the association will first issue guidance for submission of representation for getting the delay condoned. The participants narrated organisational activities in their jurisdiction. Finance Secretary informed that accounts for three years have been handed over to a private auditor. GS then outlined basic requirements of accommodation and meeting hall for AIC and requested all office bearers to start a lookout for suitable venue. The meeting ended with the President thanking the office bearers for the purposeful discussions for more than two hours in the middle of the festival mood.

01.10.2025:

CCA MAHARASHTRA & GOA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 23.09.2025 REGARDING NON-RESTORATION OF SECOND PORTION OF COMMUTATION OF SHRI G.N.JATAKIA, RETD SDE WTP:

In a quick response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 23.09.2025 addressed to the CGCA, DoT regarding non-restoration of second portion of Commutation of Shri G. N. Jatakia, Retd.SDE WTP, CCA MH & Goa has informed that "the matter has been resolved and it is intimated that the Commuted Value and Dates have been updated in SAMPANN as per the pay revision copy".   View the CCA MH & Goa reply

30.09.2025:

IDA RATE DUE FROM 01.10.2025:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers for the months June, July and August 2025, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.10.2025 is 233.3% [increase by 6.2%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.

30.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DOT REGARDING INORDINATE DELAY IN APPROVAL FOR PERMANENT ABSORPTION IN BSNL IN RESPECT OF SHRI H.S.SUTARIA, RETD JTO, GUJARAT CIRCLE:

AIBSNLREA has written to Secretary, DoT, expressing shock and concern that the case has not progressed further on the specious plea that high courts, nowadays are not giving relief to the pensioners, implying that the decision in the appeal may go against the pensioner. AIBSNLREA has stressed that it is imperative that the case be processed on extant instructions and precedent, not on imagined outcomes or personal opinions of officials and that justice not be denied by apathy or indifference. AIBSNLREA has requested his personal attention to the issue so that approval for permanent absorption in BSNL is issued without further delay.   View the letter

29.09.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 01.08.2025 REQUESTING EARLY IMPLEMENTATION OF CAT CHENNAI JUDGMENT, UPHELD BY MADRAS HIGH COURT REGARDING STEPPING UP OF PAY ON PAR WITH JUNIORS:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter to PGM Pers, BSNL CO on 01.08.2025 on the subject, pointing out that pursuing an appeal in the Supreme Court would merely be an attempt to delay granting of the benefits to the applicants. Such action would not reflect well on the BSNL administration. Furthermore, BSNL cannot adopt different stances in various court orders on the same matter, as consistency in legal positions is crucial for maintaining credibility and trust. With the approval of CMD BSNL, AGM (Pers.I-STS) BSNL CO has informed us that "that the matter is under examination for taking further course of action." [Ignore the mix-up in the subject of BSNL letter]   View the BSNL reply

28.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA PRAYAGRAJ BRANCH (UP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Prayagraj Branch held its General Body meeting on 26/9/2025 in CTO Compound Prayagraj under the Presidentship of Shri V K.Srivastava. Branch Secretary Shri S.M.Tiwari briefed the participants about local issues, Notional increment for eligible members, pending medical claims without voucher and court cases. The house decided to hold the Annual Conference on 14th November 2025. Discussions were held regarding Identity Cards to be issued by CCA UP East. Shri Ratnakar Srivastava was nominated as Auditor. President Shri V.K.Srivastava spoke about all court cases in detail. He thanked all the participants and closed the meeting.

27.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal Branch held its monthly GB meeting on 20.09.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri K Nagrajan, at Indian Coffee House, New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, OS (CHQ) Central, Shri O P Sharma, Vice President, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary and Dr H S Saxena, Secretary of Branch shared the dais. 41 members attended the meeting. Two new members, Shri Pankaj Sahai and Shri B K Singh joined the association and were felicitated by all the members. Shri P.Shrivastava, Shri A.K.Balpande, and Shri U.K.Rathore were felicitated on the occasion of their Birthday. Shri B S Rajput OS (CHQ) Central spoke regarding latest developments regarding pension contribution by BSNL to the DOT and other activities of the association in the meeting. It was decided to conduct Dewali Milan. New year celebration will be conducted in the first quarter of 2026. Shri AK Balpande, Asstt. Secretary presented a vote of thanks. The meeting concluded after serving light refreshment.   View the Photos

24.09.2025:

GUIDELINES FOR ALLOWING MEDICAL FACILITIES UNDER CGHS/CS(MA)RULES 1944 TO DEPENDENT TRANSGENDER CHILDREN/SIBLINGS IRRESPECTIVE OF AGE:

MoH&FW vide its OM F. No. 2-1/2025-CGHS(HQ)/C&P/EHS(8328809) dated 16.09.2025 has issued guidelines for allowing medical facilities under CGHS/CS(MA) Rules, 1944, to dependent transgender children/siblings irrespective of age, subject to the conditions that the Individual must be wholly dependent and must have a Certificate issued by District Magistrate under the provisions of Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.   View the MoH&FW OM

23.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT REGARDING NON-RESTORATION OF SECOND PORTION OF COMMUTATION IN RESPECT OF SHRI G.N.JATAKIA, RETD SDE WTP:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of CGCA, DOT to non-restoration of second portion of Commutation in respect of Shri G. N. Jatakia, Retd.SDE WTP by CCA Maharashtra & Goa, despite several reminders from the pensioner and has requested her to direct CCA Maharashtra & Goa to immediately restore the second portion of the commuted amount due from 15.04.2025 and to refund the excess recovered amount.   View the letter

22.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DARPG REQUESTING RECTIFICATION OF SYSTEMIC LACUNA IN CPGRAMS REGARDING CLASSIFICATION OF GRIEVANCES AS SUGGESTIONS:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Secretary, DAR&PG to a contradictory design in the system which has led to a recurring problem: many Grievance Redressal Officers (GROs) are closing even genuine grievances prematurely by categorizing them as suggestions, thereby bypassing the requirement to file an Action Taken Report (ATR) and excluding the case from the feedback and appeal loop. This loophole is being exploited by certain authorities to avoid addressing genuine grievances. Once a submission is labeled a suggestion, the complainant is left without any recourse to seek redressal, feedback, or appeal. This undermines the very purpose of CPGRAMS and erodes public trust in the grievance redressal mechanism. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested issuance of clear guidelines to all GROs instructing them not to dismiss grievances as suggestions unless they genuinely fall outside the scope of redressal—and to ensure that such cases are still documented and acknowledged appropriately and inclusion of a feedback and appeal mechanism even for cases marked as suggestions, to ensure transparency and accountability.   View the letter

21.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WEST BENGAL STATE HOLDS ITS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING:

AIBSNLREA West Bengal held its State Executive Committee meeting on 19.09.2025 under the presidentship of Shri S R Palit, State President. The meeting welcomed the Government decision to allow BSNL pay pension contribution on existing pay, which has been pursued by AIBSNLREA single handedly for a long time. The recent developments in the State were discussed, which included CCA/Kolkata granting a meeting with us to discuss about early resolution of notional increment requests and family pension issues. The meeting was useful with positive response from CCA. The meeting decided to have AGB in November 2025 and to felicitate super senior citizens in the meeting. The issue of non-grant of second ACP to some Civil wing retirees was discussed and it was decided to take up these cases with CGM, West Bengl. President concluded the meeting, thanking all for the deliberations.   View the Photo

19.09.2025:

DOT FORWARDS OUR APPEAL AGAINST BSNL RESPONSE TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 07.08.2025 REGARDING EARLY PAN-INDIA LAUNCH OF PORTAL FOR BSNL RETIRED EMPLOYEES:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 07.08.2025, BSNL had replied that "The Pensioner Portal is live on a PAN-India basis, and circles are currently using it". We had conveyed our disappointment towards the incorrect information by BSNL and filed an appeal. DDG (SMC) DoT has sent us a reply stating that "The hardship being faced by the pensioners is deeply regretted. As per your feedback, M/s BSNL has been asked to review the matter and provide proper resolution in a time bound banner. Please feel free to directly contact me in case the issue is not resolved within a reasonable period".   View the Email from DDG (SMC) DoT

18.09.2025:

DOE ACCORDS SANCTION FOR CREATION OF 88 POSTS FOR THE 22 NEW ALLOPATHIC CGHS WELLNESS CENTRES PROPOSED:

CGHS Directorate has conveyed the sanction of Department of Expenditure for creation of 88 posts for the proposed wellness centres at Bhilai, Durg, Narmadapuram, Bahdurgarh, Rewari, Rohtak, Jamshedpur, Sabarmati, Bharatpur, Alwar, Haldwani, Nainital, Dharmshala, Kangra, Patiala, Udupi, Shivamogga, Warangal, Tirupathi, Navi Mumbai, Hapur and Mangaluru. Now the respective ADs are required to submit requisition to CGHS Directorate for filling up these posts and initiate steps to open these wellness centres.   View CGHS Directorate letter

17.09.2025:

VISIT TO BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:

AGSs AIBSNLREA Shri V.P.Arya and Shri Rakesh Sethi visited BSNL Corporate office yesterday and had discussions with officers concerned over the issues we have raised through our letters and the following is the outcome:

1. Implementation of CAT orders on stepping up of pay of seniors on par with juniors consequent to upholding of the orders of Chennai CAT by Madras High Court:

We made a mention of the Supreme Court recently dismissing a SLP filed by BSNL against another order of Madras High Court favouring the applicant in a similar case and requested avoiding filing appeals whenever a matter had attained finality. It was agreed the matter will be examined.

2. Undue delay in issuing promotion orders to Shri M.N.Chavda:

We expressed deep concern over the delay after we were informed a few months back that orders would be issued shortly. We were informed that the delay was due to a technical issue wherein the VC had expired and fresh VC is being awaited from CVO BSNL and that it is being pursued with vigilance for early issue of orders.

3. Declaring the chargesheets issued to hundreds of VRS retirees of Maharashtra Circle and its jurisdiction null and void:

Detailed discussions were held in line with our letter addressed to CMD BSNL. The officers were convinced about the points raised by us in our letter, but the issue will have to be further discussed with PGM (Estt)/(Admin)/(Rectt.&Training) who was busy in a meeting and hence was not available.

4. Long pending issue of non-payment of medical claim of Shri R.K.Tandon:

A copy of our letter was left with the PS of PGM (Admin) and the issue will be discussed with PGM (Estt)/(Admin)/(Rectt.&Training) during our next visit.

16.09.2025:

DOP&T FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 20.08.2025 ADDRESSED TO IT, REQUESTING RECTIFICATION OF ANOMALY IN GRANT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION FOR PENSIONERS BORN ON THE FIRST DAY OF A MONTH TO DOP&PW FOR NECESSARY REDRESSAL:

DoP&T has forwarded AIBSNLREA letter dated 20.08.2025 requesting it to rectify the anomaly in grant of additional quantum of pension for pensioners born on the first day of a month, to DoP&PW for taking appropriate action in the matter.   View DoP&T letter

13.09.2025:

A DECADE OF DETERMINATION – INJUSTICE OVER PENSION CONTRIBUTION REMOVED:

For almost a decade, AIBSNLREA has been at the forefront of a sustained campaign to correct a long-standing injustice - the calculation of pension contribution for BSNL absorbed employees on the maximum of the pay scale rather than their actual pay. This flawed practice not only burdened BSNL financially but also became a major roadblock to pay revision—directly impacting pension revision for retirees.  Read More

12.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DOE, REQUESTING TO REVIEW THE DATE FROM WHICH BSNL IS ALLOWED TO PAY PENSION CONTRIBUTION ON THE BASIS OF EXISTING PAY:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary, DoE, expressing disappointment and disagreement with the decision to remove the discrimination only from a prospective date, i.e., 01.09.2025, rather than from 01.01.2006 as stipulated in the DoP&T OM vide No.2/34/2008-Estt.(Pay II) dated 19.11.2009, which we feel is both unfair and arbitrary and has requested to review the decision.  View the letter

12.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA JAUNPUR BRANCH (UP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Jaunpur Branch held its General body meeting on 11/9/2025 at T.E.Campus Jaunpur under the Presidentship Shri Saheb Lal. After Branch Secretary Shri A.R.Yadav presented a brief of activities, discussions were held on CCA related issues, CGHS related issues, Medical claims without vouchers and pending medical claims.The meeting ended with the President thanking the participants.

11.09.2025:

DOT ALLOWS BSNL TO PAY PENSION CONTRIBUTION IN RESPECT OF ITS ABSORBED EMPLOYEES ON THE BASIS OF EXISTING PAY INSTEAD OF THE PRACTICE OF MAXIMUM OF THE PAYSCALE:

A few days back, in our editorial titled 'Pension Contribution on existing pay - Light at the end of the tunnel', we had expressed hope of resolution of the long pending issue, which AIBSNLREA has been pursuing for years, all alone. DoT has finally issued orders allowing BSNL to pay pension contribution in respect of its absorbed employees on the basis of existing pay, but only with prospective effect w.e.f. 01.09.2025. If the service unions and associations had pursued the matter since 2009, this result could have been achieved much earlier, with substantial savings for BSNL. They should act at least now, as the additional expenditure on pay revision will be significantly reduced now.  View the DoT letter

11.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF RETIREMENT TA CLAIM IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.M.NYAMATI RETD CAO, BENGALURU:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Director (HR) BSNL, to the non-payment of Retirement Travelling Allowance claim submitted by Shri B.M.Nyamati, Retd CAO on 24.07.2020, despite his repeated representations and has requested him to instruct Bengaluru TD to trace the bill which is in its possession and settle the claim without further delay to alleviate the pensioner’s distress.  View the letter

09.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DOT REQUESTING HIM TO INTERVENE IN SETTLEMENT OF INTEREST ON DELAYED PENSION AND GRATUITY PAYMMENTS UNDER RULE 65 OF CCS (PENSION) RULES, 2021:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary, DoT conveying that despite these clear provisions, BSNL circles [Karnataka, Maharashtra and Jharkhand] have declined to sanction interest on late payment of gratuity to Shri B.M.Mohare, Retd AO Karnataka Circle, Shri B.M.Kolki, Retd SDE, Maharashtra Circle and Shri P.S.Prasad, Retd SDE Jharkhand Circle and has requested him to ensure early settlement of interest on delayed gratuity payment.  View the letter

08.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CMD BSNL ON THE CHARGESHEETS ISSUED BY CGMT MAHARASHTRA, CGM CNTX-W CIRCLES WHICH LACK AUTHORITY AND ARE UNSUSTAINABLE:

AIBSNLREA has written to the CMD BSNL regarding deliberate violation of DoP&PW orders dated 30.11.2021 and DoT order dated 22.03.2022 by BSNL Maharashtra Circle and CNTx-West Circle, Mumbai, harassment of BSNL retired employees through issue of chargesheets which are contrary to extant rules, procedurally irregular, legally unsustainable and lacking authority. AIBSNLREA has requested him to declare the chargesheets null and void.  View the letter

06.09.2025:

E-JOURNAL SEPTEMBER 2025 ISSUE:

September 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "PENSION CONTRIBUTION ON EXISTING PAY - LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal September 2025

05.09.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 25.08.2025 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL, REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI PRAKASH DUBEY:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 25.08.2025, a reply from Varanasi TD that the claim has been forwarded to Circle Office on 19.05.2025 has been furnished to us. AIBSNLREA has filed an appeal stating that "While the grievance is that Despite Varanasi TD addressing all queries, the approval from the Circle Office, UP East, is still pending. While Circle Office, UP East, BSNL has to respond and resolve the grievance, reply from Varanasi TD that the claim has been sent to Circle Office has been provided. It is requested that Circle Office, UP East be directed to resolve the grievance".  View the BSNL reply and our appeal

04.09.2025:

DOP&PW ISSUES COMPREHENSIVE GUIDELINES FOR EVALUATION OF IDENTIFIED PENSIONER WELFARE ASSOCIATIONS:

Based on the recommendations of a Committee which also studied inputs from Pensioner Associations, including from AIBSNLREA, DoP&PW has issued comprehensive guidelines for evaluating the existing 57 Pensioner Welfare Associations identified/registered by it and also for identifying new PWAs. It also provides criteria for de-registration of a PWA which gets a score of less than 50 as per Score sheet for evaluation of PWAs as mentioned in Para 4-E for a continuous period of two years.  View the DoP&PW guidelines

03.09.2025:

VIRTUAL MEET OF AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers held:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V. Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. In his opening remarks, the President warmly welcomed the participants and expressed satisfaction over the growing cohesion within CHQ, a result of consistent monthly deliberations. The General Secretary, in his introductory address, shared his deep appreciation for the unwavering dedication of the office bearers. He was particularly moved by the presence of Shri M. Venkateshwar Rao, Vice President, who joined the meeting from outside the hospital ward where his wife is undergoing treatment for cardiac issues. He also recalled how Shri K. Gopinathan, OS (South), had previously attended a meeting from a wheelchair while recovering from an accident, which are testaments to the commitment of the team. To further illustrate this spirit, the General Secretary mentioned the Financial Secretary’s eagerness, noting that he had logged in promptly on 1st September, anticipating the meeting as per the usual schedule. The General Secretary then briefed the attendees on key developments during the month, with special emphasis on the meeting with Member (S). He highlighted the encouraging assurance from Member (S) that the pension contribution issue would be resolved within the next few months. Following this, office bearers presented updates on activities in their respective areas. They raised queries on several matters, including notification of the VIII CPC, CPENGRAMS-related concerns, response from CBDT to the association’s letter regarding ITAT Chandigarh orders, challenges faced by VRS retirees in Maharashtra Circle, wage negotiation committee discussions and a few individual cases. The General Secretary addressed these queries and noted that the association is awaiting further action from the Income Tax Department on the ITAT Chandigarh orders. He also outlined the next steps planned to address the Maharashtra issue. It was decided that the AGSs would visit the corporate office next week, followed by another visit to DoT to pursue pending matters. The meeting concluded with the President extending heartfelt thanks to all participants for their active involvement and continued commitment.

03.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REQUESTING UNIFORM SUPPLY OF INSULIN PENS COMPATIBLE WITH THE PRESCRIBED CARTRIDGES:

AIBSNLREA has requested DG CGHS to ensure one-time supply of reusable insulin pens to all beneficiaries along with insulin cartridges, across all CGHS Wellness Centres nationwide and provide compatible pens whenever there is a change in the brand of insulin cartridge supplied, to ensure uninterrupted and safe usage.  View the letter

02.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REQUESTING TO ADVISE AD CGHS LUCKNOW TO WITHDRAW THE INSTRUCTION REQUIRING THREE QUOTATIONS FOR NON-LISTED INVESTIGATIONS:

Drawing attention of DG CGHS to the instruction issued by AD CGHS Lucknow mandating that CGHS beneficiaries must obtain three quotations from different laboratories when a required investigation/test is not included in the CGHS rate list, AIBSNLREA has requested her to advise the AD CGHS Lucknow to withdraw the said instruction immediately, issue a clarification allowing beneficiaries to avail investigations/tests at any nearby empanelled laboratory and in cases where the required test is not available at an empanelled lab, permit beneficiaries to access services from any reputed lab in the vicinity without the need for multiple quotations.  View the letter

01.09.2025:

AIBSNLREA JUNAGADH BRANCH (GUJARAT STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Junagadh branch was held on 28/08/2025 at Garden Cafe resort Junagadh. Meeting was presided over by Shri H.K. Vadukul, President. Shri B.M.Bhavsar, former State President spoke about current issues. The meeting decided to continue with the present set of office bearers. Meeting ended with members enjoying grand dinner with their families.  View the Photos

29.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA PATIALA BRANCH (PUNJAB STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A general body meeting of Patiala Branch was held on 23.08.2025 at Gopal Sweets, Urban Estate, Patiala. 14 members attended the meeting under the Presidentship of Shri Mewa Singh Retd DET. Shri Balbir Singh welcomed all and briefed the working of CHQ and latest status of main issues like Pension revision in BSNL and notional increment. He also requested all the members to see CHQ website regularly. No problem was pointed out by any of the members. Most of the members have switched over to CGHS already and since Patiala has been now approved for CGHS wellness centre, members interested can switch over. Shri Mewa Singh President shared his views that we the retired persons should have regular meetings and get togethers to enjoy our life. All the members enjoyed the Snacks. The meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri Balbir Singh Branch Secretary Patiala.

28.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA LUCKNOW BRANCH (UTTAR PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Lucknow Branch held its GB meeting on 25th August 2025 Chaired by Shri VK Shukla at Laplace Sadan Hazratganj. 20 members attended the meeting. Shri Radhey Shyam Organizing Secretary briefed about developments and action taken by CHQ. Shri VP Singh State Secretary briefed about developments at State level. Branch Secretary Shri AK Sharma proposed to collect Rs 1000 per member for the coming Branch annual conference and all India conference which was unanimously approved by the house. Discussions were held regarding pending issues of members like Medical Bills, Notional increment and court case of individual members. Detailed demo was done by Branch Secretary regarding use of CPGRAMS and CPENGRAMS. Members were requested to utilise these services for their personal grievances as suggested by our Central Headquarters. Vote of thanks was proposed by President and meeting disbursed.

27.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly General Body meeting on 17.08.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri K Nagrajan, at Indian Coffee House New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ, Shri O P Sharma, Vice President, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary shared the dais. 52 members attended the meeting. Shri D K Jain was felicitated on completion of 80 years. Shri R K Jadia, Shri G P Vyas and Shri B M Gajbhiye were felicitated on the occasion of their birthday in this month. It was decided that when a member is hospitalized, a representative of the Branch should visit him in the hospital and offer wishes for early recovery. All pensioner issues were discussed in the meeting. Members rendered melodious songs. Shri D K Jain gifted beautiful plants in pots to all the members. Shri AK Balpande, Asst. Secretary presented vote of thanks. Snacks were served after the meeting.

26.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA JABALPUR BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Jabalpur branch was held on 22nd August 2025 at Indian coffee house Ghantaghar. Twenty members attended the meeting. Shri Bijoy kumar, senior most member came on wheelchair accompanied by his son, inspiring all. All stood up for the prayer song 'Itani shakti hame dena data', recollecting office memories. President discussed events happened during the period since last meeting, such as loosing of Rs 45 lacs on digital arrest case of one of our members. Shri A N Bhargav gave his views on current issues and activities of the association. Those whose birthday fall in August were felicitated. Shri T D Dravid distributed sweets on his birthday. Members enjoyed cultural activities and snacks & coffee. Vote of thanks was given by Shri A N Bhargav. Meeting ended with condolence to our departed member Shri P K Kapoor and Smt Gaytri devi w/o Shri S S Rajwar.  View the Photo

25.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM FOR INDOOR TREATMENT TAKEN IN THE YEAR 2017 IN RESPECT OF SHRI PRAKASH DUBEY, RETD SDE VARANASI:

After our earlier representation in this regard, AO (Claims) Varanasi had responded that "After great efforts the missing file of Shri Prakash Dubey SDE regarding indoor medical treatment has been traced. Medical claim amount exceeds the limit of BA Head and therefore this case is being sent to circle office for approval." Despite Varanasi TD addressing all queries, the approval from the Circle Office, UP East, is still pending. AIBSNLREA has again sought the intervention of Director (HR) for early payment of the claim.  View the letter

22.08.2025:

MEETING WITH MEMBER (S) DOT:

AGS Shri Rakesh Sethi and CHQ FS Shri Awadesh Sharma met Member (S), DoT yesterday (21.08.2025) and had discussions over the issues raised through earlier letters of AIBSNLREA addressed to Member (S). The following is the outcome of the discussions:

1. Withholding of pensionary benefits and ex-gratia on the ground that community verification is pending - case of VRS retirees of Maharashtra Circle:

A detailed discussion was held in this matter, explaining that the action by BSNL & CCA Maharashtra Circle is violative of DoP&PW instructions dated 30.11.2021 and DoP&T instructions dated 10.08.2010 and that DoT letter dated 30.01.2025 which contradicted both these instructions needs to be rescinded. Member (S) reacted positively and has agreed to get the contents of the DoT letter re-examined.

2. Allowing BSNL to pay pension contribution on existing pay instead of maximum of the pay scale:

We explained to him our long drawn struggle to convince DoT and mentioned that this would be in the interests of BSNL, its employees and pensioners. Member (S) appreciated our concern and efforts and said this issue will be resolved in the next few months.

3. Consequential benefits by holding review DPC based on the revised seniority lists of TES Group B as per Supreme Court orders in respect of those who were promoted to DE grade during DoT period:

We explained that review DPCs in respect of promotion orders issued by BSNL have been conducted but BSNL is reluctant to conduct similar exercise in respect of those who were promoted during DoT period, despite the former Member (S) forwarding our representation in this regard for necessary action by BSNL. Member (S) has agreed to examine the issue.

4. Delay in issue of Vigilance Clearance for absorption in BSNL in respect of Shri H.S.Sutaria:

We explained the history of the case and informed him that BSNL has forwarded the required papers received from Gujarat Circle and still the issue is being delayed. Member (S) marked our letter to DDG (Vig) DoT and assured that he will get the status checked for early issue of VC.

20.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (P), DOP&T REQUESTING RECTIFICATION OF ANOMALY IN GRANT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION FOR PENSIONERS BORN ON THE FIRST DAY OF A MONTH:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (P), DoP&T requesting him to consider aligning the rules so that pensioners born on the first day of a month are granted the additional quantum of pension from the month in which they complete the age of eligibility, i.e one month earlier than others.  View the letter

18.08.2025:

HOW TO REGISTER GRIEVANCES, TRACK STATUS AND FILE APPEAL USING CPENGRAMS:

In the Editorial of AIBSNLREA Ejournal-August 2025, we had mentioned that"it is time for the State and Branch Secretaries to take the initiative and start registering grievances of their members, related to their Circle and District authorities, with CPENGRAMS or CPGRAMS. Members may also be encouraged to register their grievance independently, before seeking assistance from the association. They will find that authorities who previously ignored grievances sent by post or email now provide detailed responses and make efforts to resolve them". A step by step guide on 'How to avail CPENGRAMS services' brought out by DoP&PW is circulated for the benefit of the State/Branch Secretaries and members. [Guide for registering grievances other than pension grievances under CPGRAMS will be circulated separately]  View the Manual

16.08.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA ODISHA STATE BRANCH HELD:

General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA of Odisha State Branch was held on 09.08.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri Sanatan Das, President. 22 members attended the meeting. Shri P.K.Kar, Secretary welcomed all and appraised the members that the WhatsApp news of reducing the commutation period from 15 years as per Supreme Court decision is false. Members discussed different Govt. medical schemes and opined that CGHS having unlimited claim limits, remains the best. Com. Sanatan Das, President emphasized the need to strengthen the branch with enrollment of fresh members to empower the CHQ to put forth the grievances of the aggrieved members and the issues of common interest with appropriate authorities. It was decided to have such meetings at least once in three months. After vote of thanks by Shri B.Sarkhel, Vice President, delicious food was served.  View the photos

14.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE JS DOP&PW REGARDING ABSENCE OF ANY RESPONSE BY THE RECIPIENTS OF EMAILS ON PENSIONER GRIEVANCES FORWARDED BY DOP&PW FOR ACTION:

AIBSNLREA has again drawn the attention of the JS, DoP&PW that the recipients of emails on pensioner grievances forwarded by DoP&PW do not respond to and do not act on them and has requested to examine the situation and devise some methodology to follow up the grievances forwarded by the DoP&PW through email and to ensure that these emails from DoP&PW do not get ignored, do not remain unacknowledged and unaddressed.  View the letter

12.08.2025:

EXTENSION OF EMPANELMENT OF AYUSH HOSPITALS:

CGHS Directorate has issued an O.M extending the validity of 62 AYUSH hospitals empanelled under CGHS and CS(MA) Rules, till 31st July 2026. In addition to the existing terms and conditions, Geo-tagging shall be implemented whereby photographs with geo-tagging of the patients are to be taken on day-to-day basis and it is essential to submit these geo-tagged photographic details during submission of bills by the hospitals.  View the CGHS O.M

11.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA AGAIN WRITES TO THE CHAIRMAN CBDT REQUESTING CLOSURE OF NOTICES ISSUED UNDER SECTION 154 DEMANDING ADDITIONAL TAX ON LEAVE ENCASHMENT FOR LEAVE EARNED DURING DOT PERIOD IN RESPECT OF BSNL ABSORBED PENSIONERS:

Drawing the attention of the Chairman, CBDT again towards BSNL letter dated 04.05.2012 on the subject and an order of ITAT Bangalore in a similar case, AIBSNLREA has requested him to direct the officials in CPC Bangalore to withdraw/close the notices issued in violation of the IT Act and also stop adjusting the alleged additional tax from refunds due.  View the letter

09.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA INDORE BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Indore Branch held its GB meeting on 5/8/25 at Indore coffee house under the Presidentship of Shri SK Jain. 60 members attended the meeting. 5 new members joined the association. President welcomed all the participants. Secretary Shri NC Yadav appraised all about the important developments and issues taken up by CHQ. Some members asked about the present status of court case on 78.2% fitment and review DPC as per supreme court order. Secretary informed the members that the case is pending in the court, next date of hearing is 18/9/25 and regarding the review DPC, CHQ is pursuing the case. Metting ended with vote of thanks by Asst.Secretary Shri RB Banke.  View the Photos

08.08.2025:

CGCA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 04.07.2025 REGARDING DIFFICULTY IN DOWNLOADING FORM 16 & PENSION PAID STATEMENT AND NON-AVAILABILITY OF PENSION DETAILS IN PRE-FILLED ITR:

CGCA Delhi has responded to AIBSNLREA letter dated 04.07.2025 stating that Form 16 in cases where TDS has been deducted have been uploaded in CCA webpages, pension paid statement is available in Pensioners' Dashboard in SAMPANN and pensioners can file ITR for FY 2024-25 accordingly.  View the CGCA response

07.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD BSNL AGAIN REQUESTING EARLY PAN-INDIA LAUNCH OF PORTAL FOR BSNL RETIRED EMPLOYEES FOR SUBMITTING AND TRACKING MEDICAL CLAIMS:

AIBSNLREA has again written to the CMD BSNL that BSNL had earlier planned pan-India launch of a web portal developed by Kerala Circle for providing various online services to retired employees including submission and tracking status of medical claims by 1st March 2023, but the portal remained dysfunctional for long and has become inaccessible now. AIBSNLREA has requested his personal attention to the issue and ensure that the portal is relaunched on Pan-India basis at the earliest, so as to benefit the nearly 2 lakhs BSNL pensioners.  View the letter

06.08.2025:

E-JOURNAL AUGUST 2025 ISSUE:

August 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "LEVERAGING CPENGRAMS AND CPGRAMS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal August 2025

05.08.2025:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 01.08.2025 REQUESTING BSNL TO IMPLEMENT CAT CHENNAI ORDERS UPHELD BY MADRAS HIGH COURT ON THE MATTER OF STEPPING UP OF PAY ON PAR WITH JUNIORS, TO DOT FOR EXPEDITIOUS RESOLUTION:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter dated 01.08.2025 to PGM (Pers) BSNL CO on the matter, copy of which was marked to Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW. At the instance of Secretary (Pension), the letter has been forwarded to DoT by DoP&PW for looking into the matter and resolving the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time bound manner under intimation to DoP&PW and AIBSNLREA about the action taken.  View the DoP&PW Email

04.08.2025:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 28.07.2025 CONTESTING REJECTION OF MEDICAL CLAIMS ON THE GROUND THAT MRS CARD WAS NOT REVALIDATED, TO DOT FOR EXPEDITIOUS RESOLUTION:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter dated 28.07.2025 to CMD BSNL on the matter, copy of which was marked to Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW. At the instance of Secretary (Pension), the letter has been forwarded to DoT by DoP&PW for looking into the matter and resolving the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time bound manner under intimation to DoP&PW and AIBSNLREA about the action taken.  View the DoP&PW Email

01.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS MEET HELD VIRTUALLY:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed the participants conveying gratitude towards their enthusiastic functioning and participation. General Secretary presented a small brief on the developments that took place after the previous meeting which include instant resolution of a transfer of pension case pending for a year, our immediate action of writing to the Chairman, CBDT on the orders of ITAT Chandigarh, another association promptly copying our entire text and writing to CBDT, the limitation of time for filing revised ITR and a good number of Branches holding meetings in July 2025. The office bearers briefly reported their activities since the last meeting. The meeting decided that the office bearers will consult auditors known to them regarding procedure for filing of revised ITR which will be shared with the members at the appropriate time. The meeting desired that CHQ VP Shri Sanat Maitro shall ensure early resolution of the grievance of Shri R.N.Bhunia by enabling a meeting with the local authorities. It was decided that, as a part of the on-going membership list reconciliation process, members will be requested to check if their names find a place in the list uploaded in the website. Issues to be discussed with Member (S) were shortlisted. The meeting ended with the President showering praise on the office bearers for the exemplary teamwork.

01.08.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO PGM PERS BSNL CO REQUESTING TO IMPLEMENT CAT CHENNAI ORDERS ON STEPPING UP OF PAY ON PAR WITH JUNIORS IN VIEW OF MADRAS HIGH COURT DISMISSING WRIT PETITION BY BSNL CHALLENGING THE CAT CHENNAI ORDERS:

AIBSNLREA has written to the PGM PERS, BSNL CO, expressing our belief that BSNL will respect the verdict of the Madras High Court in WP No. 19730 of 2025 and promptly implement the orders of CAT Chennai in OA/310/01111/2015, without considering any further legal actions and that BSNL cannot adopt different stances in various court orders on the same matter, as consistency in legal positions is crucial for maintaining credibility and trust. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested that the orders of CAT Chennai be implemented forthwith without any inclination towards further legal course.  View the letter

31.07.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HELD:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly meeting on 20.07.2025 Chaired by President Shri Nagrajan at Indian Coffee House New Market Bhopal. Shri O.P.Sharma Vice President Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ, Shri Balpande Assistant Secretary shared the dais. Shri Balpande conducted the meeting with the permission of the Chair. 51 Members attended the meeting. On completion of 80 years Shri D.C.Kaneriaji was felicitated. Shri Chandra Bhan Aswani, Shri Arvind Sinha, Shri V.K.Khare, Shri R.B.L.Shrivastava and Shri R.S.Jaiswal were also felicitated on the occasion of their birthday falling in July. Shri Chandra Bhan Aswani distributed Sweet to all members in view of his birthday on 1st July. It was decided to invite all medical officers in CGHS Wellness Centres, the CCA and Jt.CCA to the Diwali Milan Program. The meeting was concluded with vote of thanks by Shri A.K.Balpande.  View the Photos

31.07.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HELD:

A General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Kurukshetra Branch was held on 17th July 2025 at 11 AM in Haryana Tourism Yatri Niwas, Kurukshetra. 28 members were present. Branch president Shri S K Verma presided over the meeting. Branch secretary Shri Rajvir Singh Chaudhary welcomed the members. Shri B D Gupta and Shri B K Goel were felicitated by offering them shawls and flowers on their completing 80 years. Thanking the organisers they donated Rs.1500 and Rs.1100 respectively to the Association. Shri D S Sandhu briefed the house about various activities of the association at CHQ level viz notional increment case, pension revision, 78.2% case IDA wef 1.7.2025, CGHS updates, DLC campaign, commutation restoration etc. Shri Narender Singh and Shri D N Panchal entertained the members with songs and skits. The meeting ended with vote of thanks for the chair and was followed by sumptuous lunch.  View the Photos

30.07.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA PUNE BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HELD:

Quarterly G.B.Meeting of AIBSNLREA Pune Branch was held on 15th July 2025 in “Varradshri Sabhagruha ”, 1308A,Sukravar Peth, Natu Bauh Chouk, Bajirao Road, Pune, under the Presidentship of Shri Phulchand Vishwakarma. After welcome address by the President, Shri Agnihotri rendered prayer song. 85 members were present. [View Maharashtra page of State News section for full report]  View the Photos

29.07.2025:

PCCA DELHI RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 21.07.2025 REGARDING UNDUE DELAY IN TRANSFER OF PENSION FROM CCA DELHI TO CCA GUJARAT IN RESPECT OF SHRI DASHRATHLAL MANILAL PATEL:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 21.07.2025 addressed to CGCA DoT regarding more than a year delay in acting upon the request by Shri Dashrathlal Manilal Patel for transfer of his pension from CCA Delhi to CCA Gujarat, PCCA Delhi has informed us that "pension case of Shri Dashrathlal Manilal Patel has already been transferred from CCA delhi to CCA Gujarat and service book with pension files have been sent by AAO (Pension-II) on 22.07.2025 and in this regard, vide this office letter of even no. dt. 22.07.2025, Shri Dashrathlal Manilal Patel has been informed accordingly".  View the CCA Delhi response

28.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD BSNL REGARDING REJECTION OF MEDICAL CLAIMS ON THE GROUND THAT MRS CARDS WAS NOT REVALIDATED - REQUEST FO ADVISE BSNL UP EAST CIRCLE NOT TO MISINTERPRET BSNL MRS GUIDELINES:

Pointing out that Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon got his MRS card revalidated on 14.05.2019 and therefore the rejection of the claims for 2019-20 and the previous year 2018-19 was incorrect, AIBSNLREA has requested the CMD BSNL to intervene and advise CGM UP (E) Circle and GM Lucknow BA to undo the prolonged injustice ensuring that Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon receives the balance amount of his claims for the years 2018-19 and 2019-20, which is rightfully due to him, without further delay.  View the letter

24.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA AGRA BRANCH (UTTAR PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

Annual General Body Meeting of AIBSNLREA Agra Branch was held on 17.07.2025 in hybrid mode. The meeting was presided over by Shri B.C. Mishra, President. Total 30 members out of a total strength of 44 attended the meeting. 20 in physical and 10 in online mode. Shri R K Sinha, Joint Secretary of CHQ body joined the meeting in online mode. Dr. Ajay Kumar Dubey, Branch Secretary, welcomed all the members and expressed gratitude for their continued support and active participation. He presented a brief report highlighting key developments, branch activities, and participation in various conferences. The report was well received and approved by the members. The Financial Secretary presented the audited report and statement of accounts which were approved unanimously by the house. President Shri B.C. Mishra appreciated the efforts of the branch team and members. He emphasized the continued commitment toward the welfare of retired executives and proactive role in resolving issues. New office bearers, with Shri B.C.Mishra as President, Dr. A.K.Dubey as Secretary and Shri Kundan Singh as Financial Secretary were elected unanimously.  View the Photos

23.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHENNAI BRANCH (TAMILNADU STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Chennai Branch was held on 15.07.2025 at Hotel Mathsya, Chennai. 40 members participated in the meeting, which was presided over by Shri R.Perumal,Vice President. One New member joined in the association. After prayer song by Smt.P.Anandhi and Smt.J.Rajalakshmi, one minute silence was observed in respect of departed souls. After self introduction of participants, Secretary Shri L.Sundararaman addressed and briefly covered the activities of the association since last GB. [View Tamilnadu Page of State News section for full report]  View the Photos

22.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT REGARDING THE UNDUE DELAY IN ACTING UPON THE REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF PENSION FROM CCA DELHI TO CCA GUJARAT IN RESPECT OF SHRI DASHRATHLAL MANILAL PATEL:

Shri Dashrathlal Manilal Patel, has submitted the request along with all the required documents, first on 01-03-2024 which had been received by CCA Delhi on 04-03-2024. He again submitted the request on 27-01-2025, on both the occasions by Speed Post. He has been sending reminders through email subsequently, but his request still remains unconsidered. AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DOT to intervene and issue necessary instructions to PCCA Delhi and CCA Gujarat to process the request and effect the transfer without further delay.  View the letter

21.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CHAIRMAN CBDT REGARDING EXTENDING RELIEF UNDER SECTION 89 OF INCOME TAX ACT IN ADDITION TO EXEMPTION UNDER SECTION 10(10C) OF THE ACT IN RESPECT OF EX-GRATIA RECEIVED BY BSNL VRS 2019 RETIREES:

Drawing attention of the Chairman, CBDT to the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal Division Bench, 'SMC' Chandigarh order dated 30.05.2025 in Harish Kumar, a BSNL VRS 2019 retiree vs The ITO, Ward 5(5), Chandigarh, wherein it has been ruled that “When the claim of the Assessee relating to the first instalment has been accepted by the Ld. CIT(A}, there was no question to reject the claim of the Assessee in relation to second instalment of compensation received by the Assessee”, AIBSNLREA has requested that common instructions be issued to process such requests based on the order of ITAT Chandigarh Bench and to refund the excess TDS recovered from these retirees and paid by BSNL to the Income Tax department.  View the letter

18.07.2025:

MOH&FW ISSUES REVISED INSTRUCTIONS FOR ISSUE OF GENERIC/BRANDED MEDICINES AT CGHS WELLNESS CENTRES:

Revising its earlier instructions, MoH&FW has now allowed indenting the medicine prescribed by the Specialist by the same brand name, if medicine by generic name or alternate brand name is not available at CGHS wellness centre.  View the MoH&FW OM

17.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA THANJAVUR BA BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Thanjavur Branch was conducted on 12-07-2025 at Mayiladuthurai under the Presidentship of Shri E.Rajasekaran, President. After Presidential address, Shri V.Rajendran, Senior member delivered welcome address. 24 members actively participated in the meeting. Secretary Shri R.Srinivasan recalled the previous meetings addressed by our CHQ President and our GS and outlined the activities of the branch and thanked the State and CHQ bodies for their effective support. [View Tamilnadu Page of State News Section for full report]  View the Photos

16.07.2025:

MONTHLY VIRTUAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed all and explained the methodology of the meeting to the newly co-opted office bearer Shri R.T.Shah. General Secretary then detailed the developments that took place in June 2025 and the first half of July 2025 and suggested that the office bearers continue their laudable good work in co-ordinating with the Branches for holding regular meeting, increase in membership and said reconciliation of membership shall be continued and completed. All the office bearers then made submissions on their association activities during the previous month. The continuing problems in downloading Form 16, notional increment for VRS retirees, non-release of pensionary benefits on the ground of pending community verification in respect of a member from Ujjain and the need for standby network in CGHS wellness centres were part of the discussions. GS explained the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, Chandigarh Bench decision of tax exemption on ex-gratia for BSNL VRS retirees. He explained the provisions of Section 10(10B) of Income Tax Act and the judgement by Madras High Court in HPFW vs Government of India and assured that a small brief will be published on the matter for the understanding of the members. GS expressed gratitude towards the committed functioning of all the office bearers. President concluded the discussions, expressing satisfaction over the useful discussions.

16.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MP STATE) HOLDS ITS MONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly GB meeting on 29.06.25 under the Presidentship of Shri R.P.Shrivastava, at Indian Coffee House New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ shared the dais. 37 members attended the meeting. On completion of 75 years Shri WM Kumbharewas felicitated with Shreefal, Shawl and bouquet. Shri V K Mujmer was felicitated on the occasion of his birthday falling in this month. Draft letter for notional increment was provided on WhatsApp to all group members. The meeting was concluded with vote of thanks by Shri AK Balpande, Asstt. Secretary.

15.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA GUJARAT STATE HOLDS ITS ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Gujarat state was held on 07.07.2025 at Sheth Shri Amritlal Hargovandas Memorial Hall of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce, Ahmedabad under the Presidentship of Shri P B Parmar, State President. President welcomed the Guest Shri Ravindrakumar Vasu CEO Jaipur Ayurveda Hospital Abu Road. The President, Secretary Shri N.P.Patel, AFS CHQ Shri R.T.Shah and the Guest inaugurated the function by lighting a lamp and offering Prayer. Two minutes silence was observed as a mark of honour to our members and their family members who had expired during the period. [View Gujarat Page under State News section for full report].  View the Photos

14.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA AMBALA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A general body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 12th July 2025 at Central Phoenix Club under the Presidentship of Shri S C Jain. 27 members attended the meeting. After Presidential welcomed the participants, silence was observed in memory of two expired members Rajinder Kumar and Shyam Lal Makkar. One new member also joined the Association. Shri K L Gakhar who completes 75 years of age in July was honoured with a shawl and bouquet. A team from RBL Bank Ambala Cantt was also welcomed by the members who gave a nice presentation of their bank facilities for savings and FD deposits for senior citizens. Shri S K Aggarwal CHQ OS briefed the members about various activities of our Association including Pension Revision etc. Discussions on shortage of staff in Ambala Wellness Center, changes in procedure for issue of CGHS cards after migration of platform to C Dac and misbehaviour by staff of Ambala Center. It was decided to take up the above issues with AD CGHS Chandigarh. Meeting ended with vote of thanks, followed by lunch.  View the Photo

11.07.2025:

DPE ISSUES ORDERS REVISING IDA W.E.F. 01.07.2025:

DPE has issued orders revising IDA to 227.1% w.e.f. 01.07.2025 for CPSEs where last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 01.01.2007.  View the DPE OM

10.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA UJJAIN BRANCH (MP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body meeting of Ujjain Branch was held on 09.07.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri B.C. Kulmi. Branch Secretary Shri Prafull Kumar Shukla explained in detail all the activities of association during the period. The meeting unanimously resolved that a CGHS wellness centre be opened at Ujjain to cater to the need of the pensioners. The case of Shri Arun Kumar Hedou, VRS 2019 retiree, who has been denied regular pension and pensionary benefits on the ground that caste verification is pending, was discussed and it was decided to take up the case through CHQ. 5 new members joined the association. Shri A R Khan thanked CHQ, Com Rajput and Ujjain branch for settlement of his 20% increase in pension case. Meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri P M Makwana.  View the Photos

07.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA KALABURAGI BRANCH (KARNATAKA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Quarterly General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Kalaburagi Branch was held on 29/06/2019 at hotel Venkatagiri Kalaburagi under the Presidentship of Branch President Shri S B Telagani. 15 members attended the meeting. One minute silence was observed in memory of late Shri N B Javali and late Shri S B Mohare who passed away recently. Secretary Shri G S Hugar welcomed all the participants and spoke about the latest developments and activities at CHQ level regarding pension revision, status of our court case in 78.2%fitment and restoration of commutation after 12 years. President replied to the queries raised by members regarding local issues. The meeting concluded with vote of thanks and high tea.  View the Photo

06.07.2025:

E-JOURNAL JULY 2025 ISSUE:

July 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "SAY 'NO' TO WAR" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal July 2025

04.07.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA DOT REGARDING DIFFICULTY IN DOWNLOADING FORM 16 & PENSION PAID STATEMENT AND NON-AVAILABILITY OF PENSION DETAILS IN PRE-FILLED ITR.:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of CGCA DoT to the difficulties faced by pensioners in downloading Form 16 and non-availability of pension paid details in SAMPANN portal and non-availability of pension paid details in pre-filled ITR and has requested to ensure that the snag in downloading Form 16 is removed, pension statement is available in SAMPANN portal and pension paid details are made available in the pre-filled ITR online, at the earliest.  View the letter

28.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA VADODARA BRANCH (GUJARAT STATE) HOLDS IT GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Quarterly General Body Meeting of Vadodara Branch was held on 25-06-2025 at Hotel Utsav, Vadodara under the Presidentship of Shri R.T.Shah, Branch President. 61 members attended the meeting. One minute silence was observed in memory of late Shri K A Modi. Branch Secretary Shri A B Joshi briefed the gathering on the current pensioner issues and replied to the queries raised by the members. Meeting concluded with delicious Lunch.  View the Photos

27.06.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 29.05.2025 REGARDING PAYMENT OF INTEREST ON LATE PAYMENT OF GRATUITY, OTHER PENSIONARY BENEFITS AND RECALCULATION OF COMMUTED VALUE OF PENSION IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.M.NYAMATI, RETD CAO, BANGALORE TD:

Responding to our letter dated 29.0.2025, AO Pay, Bangalore BA has reported that "the interest on late payment of gratuity is under progress. This is for your kind information please".  View the BSNL response

25.06.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 06.05.2025 REGARDING CONTINUING DIFFICULTIES FACED BY CGHS BENEFICIARIES FOR MORE THAN A WEEK AFTER IMPLEMENTATION OF HMIS DEVELOPED BY CDAC FOR CGHS:

Responding to our letter dated 06.0.2025 conveying the difficulties caused by the new software and requesting urgent attention to the matter, JS CGHS has replied that "Sorry for inconvenience. Now Wellness Centres functioning smoothly, as transition from NIC to CDAC completed."  View the CGHS response

24.06.2025:

BSNL LUCKNOW BA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 21.05.2025 REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS FOR THE YEAR 2018-19 AND 2019-20 IN RESPECT OF SHRI RAVI KUMAR TANDON, RETD AGM LUCKNOW:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 21.05.2025 on the subject, a letter from AO (P&L), O/o PGM BA Lucknow has been furnished to us, in which it has been observed that the bills were rejected on the grounds that he had not revalidated his BSNLMRS card for the relevant period. We have filed a strong appeal conveying our agony that "the higher authorities have allowed such an erroneous understanding of the BSNLMRS rules to pass through. Revalidation of BSNLMRS card has been stipulated only for the purpose that the dependent members whose names were included in the card continue to satisfy the eligibility conditions. There is no provision anywhere in the BSNLMRS guidelines that claims should be rejected just because revalidation was not done. In case the AO thought so, he should have asked the pensioner to submit it for processing the claims and cannot reject the claim on this only ground without keeping in mind the genuineness of the claims".  View the BSNL reply and our appeal text

23.06.2025:

CCA KOLKATA TAKES ACTION ON AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 11.06.2025 REQUESTING RECONVEYANCE AND RELEASE OF ORIGINAL TITLE DEED IN RESPECT OF LATE SHRI MANORANJAN BISWAS, RETD DE CTD BSNL:

In a quick response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 11.06.2025 on the subject, Pr.CCA Kolkata has conveyed to QA & Inspection Circle its clearance for release of original title deed to Shri Samrat Biswas, S/o Late Manoranjan Biswas.  View the Pr.CCA Kolkata letter

21.06.2025:

BI-ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AISBNLREA EAST VIDARBHA BRANCH (NAGPUR) [MAHARASHTRA STATE] HELD:

The Bi-Annual General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA East Vidarbha (Nagpur) Branch was held on 15.06.2025, at Dr.B.R.Ambedkar hall under the Presidentship of Shri B.D.Nikam. All the office bearers on the dais lit the lamp & offered garlands, flowers to the portraits of Shri.Jyotiba Fule, Dr.B.R.Ambedkar, Shri Samrat Ashok and Shri Sahu Maharaj. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of departed members and those who expired in an air crash at Ahmedabad & Girikund Uttarakhand. [View Maharashtra page of State News section for full report]  View the Photos

20.06.2025:

BSNL ASSURES TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE OF REIMBURSEMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI RABINDRA NATH BHUNIA, RETD EE (E) KHARAGPUR, AT THE EARLIEST:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 13.05.2025 on the subject, BSNL had earlier replied that "Retired staff Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia is under CGHS scheme from 01.04.2020, hence not question of medical allowance after that period, and prior to that posting is not possible due to insufficient budget". We had reacted strongly to the peculiar, casual and incorrect response and had requested directions to BSNL Kharagpur and CGM West Bengal to pay the pending medical claims by getting special budget approval. Now we have been informed that "The BSNLMRS reimbursement in favour of Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia, Retd Staff, BSNL WBTC, issue will be resolved at the earliest subject to restoration of technical issue arised in SAP as entry is not allowing in the SAP since the applicant has opted for CGHS scheme from 01.04.2020. Hence once the SAP restriction is removed from system, payment will be made. The applicant is requested to visit the PGM/KGP office or call to Sri Swapan Das, IFA,KGP BA, Mobile no 9434750407 over this issue. However it is assured to resolve the issue at the earliest and applicant will be informed accordingly. Inconvenience is deeply regretted". In spite of assurance for early resolution of the issue, it is again wrongly mentioned that Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia opted for CGHS scheme from 01.04.2020. AIBSNLREA West Bengal State will take up the matter with PGM/KGP appropriately.  View the BSNL reply

19.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MEMBER (S) DOT REGARDING THE UNDUE DELAY IN ISSUE OF PENSIONER ID CARDS TO BSNL ABSORBED PENSIONERS AND RELUCTANCE ON THE PART OF THE CGCA TO ACCEPT OUR SUGGESTION AIMED AT SIMPLIFYING THE PROCESS:

As our repeated requests with the CGCA, DoT to simplify the process have failed to yield the desired response, AIBSNLREA has now drawn the attention of Member (S), DoT, requesting him to give serious consideration of our suggestion.  View the letter

18.06.2025:

DOP&PW FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 11.06.2025 ADDRESSED TO MEMBER (S) DOT, REQUESTING RESCINDING OF DOT LETTER No.40-09/2022-Pen(T) dated 30.01.2025, THE CONTENTS OF WHICH ARE IN COMPLETE CONTRAVENTION OF DoP&PW OM No. 38/09020.00-P&PW (A) (6721) dated 30.11.2021 AND REQUESTING TO RELEASE ALL RETIRAL BENEFITS OF THE AFFECTED RETIREES, TO DOT FOR EXPEDITIOUS RESOLUTION:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter dated 11.06.2025 to Member (S) DoT on the matter, copy of which was marked to Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW. At the instance of Secretary (Pension), the letter has been forwarded to DoT by DoP&PW for looking into the matter and resolving the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time bound manner under intimation to DoP&PW and AIBSNLREA about the action taken.  View the Email

17.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA YAMUNANAGAR BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The general body meeting of AIBSNLREA Yamuna Nagar Branch was held on 15/06/2025 at 1100 hrs at Gopal Restaurant Yamuna Nagar under the Chairmanship of Shri MCK Mittal. Two minutes silence was observed as mark of respect to Shri S.K.Bhardwaj who had expired a few days back. Branch Secretary Shri S L Purey welcomed the participants. He spoke on delay in payment of medical claims, CGHS issues, pension being paid in time now, Updation of Sampann, Revision of pension, Notional increment and restoration of commutation in 12 years and amendments to pension rules. All the participants appreciated the timely action taken by CHQ through email campaign to PM and FM on the validation legislation. One new life-time member was enrolled during the meeting. Meeting ended with the President thanking the participants. Light refreshment was served.

16.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHANDIGARH BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Chandigarh Branch held its General body meeting on 12-06-2025 in Hotel Pearl Industrial Area –II Chandigarh under the Presidentship of Branch President Shri M.D. Bhasin. Branch Secretary Shri M.K. Kalra welcomed the members. President elaborately explained the status of our court case on 78.2% fitment benefit. Shri Ashok Goel expressed concern about the repeated adjournments of the case. Other issues relating to CGHS’s new software and reimbursement of medical bills by BSNL were also discussed. Shri L.K.Chopra former Organising Secretary (North) CHQ elaborated on issues relating to pension revision w.e.f. 1-1-2017 and also the ensuing 8th Pay Commission prospects. Vote of thanks by the President was followed by sumptuous lunch.

13.06.2025:

CCA MAHARASHTRA & GOA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO THE CGCA DOT REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION TO SHRI ABDUL RASHI KHAN RETD JTO WTR, ON HIS ATTAINING THE AGE OF 80 YEARS IN SEPTEMBER 2024:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 19.05.2025 addressed to the CGCA, DoT, CCA Maharashtra & Goa has replied that "The date of birth is 15.09.1944 and the age of 80 years completed in the month of Sept, 2024. The 20 percent Additional Quantum is due from Sept 2024 and arrears of additional quantum will be disbursed on or after 21.06.2025 through supplementary bill".  View the CCA MH & Goa reply

12.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH (KERALA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A General body meeting of Palakkad Branch was held on Tuesday the 10.6.2025 at 11 AM at Top In Town Auditorium, Palakkad under the Presidentship of Shri Ramanathan, President. 45 members including ladies and super senior citizens attended the meeting from different parts of the district. After silent prayers in memory of the departed members, Shri P.Prabhakaran, Secretary welcomed the members. President in his presidential address spoke elaborately on all pending issues, that are being faced by the pensioners in their old age. Shri K.Gopinathan, Org.Secretary (South) CHQ highlighted the efforts taken by the General Secretary for resolving the problems of the pensioners all over India. He hailed the CHQ for holding Virtual meetings periodically to assess the ground situation. The secretary explained the current status of Court cases, the new legislation on pension revalidation and the effects there on, in the matter of the present and future pensioners and the E mail sent to Hon'ble Prime Minister as part of our campaign against the legislation. The members expressed their anquish and worries that they are being subjected to now, in the fag end of their life in the alleged discrimination by the classification of present and future pensioners by enactment of such retrogade laws. The meeting was concluded at 13.15 PM after the vote of thanks by Shri P.P.Krishnanunni. Lunch was served after the meeting.

11.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT REQUESTING RECONVEYANCE AND RELEASE OF ORIGINAL TITLE DEED IN RESPECT OF LATE SHRI MANORANJAN BISWAS, RETD DE, CTD, BSNL:

AIBSNRLEA has sought the personal attention of CGCA, DoT in order to ensure resolution of the issue, pending for more than a year, and to cause release of the original title deed to Shri Samrat Biswas the only son of Shri Manoranjan Biswas.  View the letter

09.06.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MEMBER (S) DOT REQUESTING TO RESCIND DOT LETTER DATED 30.01.2025 AND TO RELEASE ALL RETIRAL BENEFITS TO THE AFFECTED RETIREES OF MAHARASHTRA CIRCLE:

AIBSNRLEA has requested Member (S) DoT to cause rescinding of DoT letter vide No.40-09/2022-Pen(T) dated 30.01.2025, directions to BSNL Maharashtra Circle and CCA Maharashtra & Goa to strictly follow DoP&T OM vide No. 36011/2/2010-Estt.(Res.) dated 10 August 2010 and DoP&PW instructions vide its OM No. 38/09020.00-P&PW (A) (6721) dated 30.11.2021, directions to CCA Maharashtra & Goa to release gratuity and commutation of pension in respect of these affected retirees, based on the vigilance clearance granted by BSNL on the date of their retirement, with penal interest and directions to BSNL to release the ex-gratia assured under BSNL VRS 2019 immediately with penal interest, in respect of the retirees of Maharashtra Circle.  View the letter

07.06.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA SHIMLA BRANCH (HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE) HELD:

Monthly GB meeting of AIBSNLREA Shimla branch was held on 04-06-2025 at Shimla under the Presidentship of senior member Shri Dalwara Singh. Branch Secretary Shri Munish Chauhan welcomed the members. Discussions were held on all pensioner related issues, especially regarding pursuing the matter of Notional increament cases of pensioners with the concerned authorities and status of Pension revision. The meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri Munish Chauhan.

06.06.2025:

E-JOURNAL JUNE 2025 ISSUE:

June 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "THE VICIOUS CYCLE OF DELAYED JUSTICE" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal June 2025

02.06.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 13.05.2025 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS FOR THE YEAR 2018-19 AND CLAIMS WITHOUT VOUCHER FOR 2019-20, 2020-21 AND 2021-22 IN RESPECT OF SHRI RABINDRA NATH BHUNIA, RETD EE (E) KHARAGPUR:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 13.05.2025 on the subject, BSNL has replied that "Retired staff Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia is under CGHS scheme from 01.04.2020, hence not question of medical allowance after that period, and prior to that posting is not possible due to insufficient budget". We have filed an appeal contesting the wrong claim that Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia is under CGHS from 01.04.2020 and stating that "BSNL Kharagpur has to request for specific budget allotment from BSNL Corporate Office. They cannot disallow a genuine claim on the plea of insufficient budget. The appellate authority is hereby requested to issue suitable directions to BSNL Kharagpur and CGM West Bengal to pay the pending medical claims by getting special budget approval".  View the BSNL reply and our appeal

01.06.2025:

MONTHLY VIRTUAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed all and thanked everyone for their endeavour in kickstarting the task of reconciliation of membership of Branches, which has started giving the desired results. General Secretary gave an account of the developments in May 2025, which included resolution of long pending individual grievances, DoP&T issuing revised OM on notional increment, our letter to DoP&T OM seeking clarification, DoT letter conveying that applicability of notional increment for BSNL VRS retirees is under examination, letter to Minister of Health & Family Welfare on persisting issues after switch over of CGHS to CDAC platform and BSNL finally waking up on the matter of pension contribution on existing pay. He explained that AIBSNLREA alone has been pursuing this issue with confidence for several years. CHQ office bearers reported about the organisational work completed by them during the month. Jt. Secretary Com.R.S.Sandhu offered to host the next AIC in Kurukshetra. General Secretary emphasized the importance of holding regular meetings and urged the office bearers to keep engaged with the Branches to achieve frequent meetings. All the Organising Secretaries were requested to ensure re-energising of specific Branches by creating WhatsApp groups. The meeting also decided to co-opt Shri R.T.Shah Retd DGM Vadodara as CHQ Asst. Financial Secretary in the vacancy created due to the sad demise of Shri R.F.Valand. President thanked the participants for the healthy and enthusiastic discussions for more than two hours and closed the meeting.

31.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA PATIALA BRANCH (PUNJAB STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A general body meeting of Patiala Branch was held on 24.05.2025 under the presidentship of Shri Mewa Singh at Gopal Sweets, Urban Estate, Patiala. 17 members attended the meeting. Shri Balbir Singh briefed about the working of CHQ and latest status of our current main issues like Pension revision in BSNL and notional increment. He also requested all the members to see CHQ website regularly. There was no problem pointed out by any of the members. Most of the members have switched over to CGHS by obtaining CGHS family health card and since now Patiala has been approved for CGHS wellness centre, more members interested can switch over. Shri Mewa Singh President shared his views that we the retired persons should have regular meetings and get togethers to enjoy our life. The meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri Balbir Singh Branch Secretary Patiala. Snacks were served after the meeting.

30.05.2025:

DOP&PW HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH PENSIONER ASSOCIATIONS:

A virtual meeting was held by DoP&PW, chaired by Secretary (Pension). It was a brief meeting where Secretary (Pension) announced that Family Pension Campaign will be conducted from 1st July to 31st July 2025. In DLC Campaign held last year 1.68 crores pensioners submitted their DLC with 60 lakhs using Face Authentication software. The Campaign was held in all District Headquarters. This year DoP&PW is planning to hold the DLC campaign in 2000 towns aimed at generating 2 crores DLC. He requested all the registered pensioner associations to actively participate both in the Family Pension campaign as well as DLC Campaign planned later. Secretary (Pension) called some pensioner associations representing Central Government, Railway and Defence pensioners for their views and the meeting was closed 30 minutes after start.

30.05.2025:

BSNL FINALLY WAKES UP ON THE MATTER OF PENSION CONTRIBUTION ON EXISTING BASIC PAY:

AIBSNLREA is the only association which has been raising the issue consistently with DoT, seeking intervention by the Prime Minister too, with the hope that justice will finally prevail. We had also pointed out that this excess payment of pension contribution is one of the factors standing in the way of pay revison. At one point of time, DoE had wanted some clarifications on allowing BSNL to pay pension contribution on existing pay. DoT vide its letter No.40-32/2011-Pen(T) dated 2nd January 2019 addressed to CMD BSNL [Annexure-F] had listed five points on which DoE required clarification on the matter and had requested BSNL to get them examined and furnish clarifications to DoT for further deliberation in DoT and onward submission to DoE. While we believed that BSNL had submitted the clarifications and the matter was only pending with DoE, we were shocked to learn through a reply dated 11.11.2022 from DoT under RTI [Annexure-G], that “reply from BSNL is still awaited.” We had threadbare discussions with the then Member (S) DoT on 26.09.2023 and at least twice later, following up our effort in writing.  View our letter
Finally, BSNL has woke up and has asked the Circles to verify the data extracted from HRMS and ERP-SAP for reconciliation of pension contribution paid to DoT and claims recoverable on account of excess payment of pension contributions, as DoT has desired to submit the Financial Impact of Change of Methodology of Payment of Pension Contribution in respect of employees of DoT Absorbed/Unabsorbed in BSNL.  View the BSNL letter

30.05.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 15.05.2025 ADDRESSED TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS FOR FY 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24 AND THE CURRENT YEAR IN RESPECT OF SHRI S.K.BHARDWAJ, RETD EE (CIVIL), BHOPAL:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 15.05.2025 on the subject, PGM BA, Jabalpur has furnished status of all the claims, with most of the claims now approved and pending for payment and a few claims rejected for different reasons.  View the PGM BA Jabalpur letter

29.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REQUESTING PAYMENT OF INTEREST ON LATE PAYMENT OF GRATUITY AND OTHER PENSIONARY BENEFITS IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.M.NYAMATI, RETD CAO, BANGALORE TD:

AIBSNRLEA has sought the intervention of Director (HR) BSNL and has requested him to advice to BSNL Karnataka Circle to issue sanction for interest on late payment of gratuity, commutation, ex-gratia and other pensionary benefits, strictly adhering to the instructions contained in Rule 65 (5)(c) of CCS (Pension) Rules, 2021 and thus render justice to Shri B.M.Nyamati, Retd. CAO, as the chargesheet filed on the penultimate day of his retirement, has been quashed by Hon’ble CAT Bangalore and the appeal filed by BSNL in the Hon’ble High Court of Karnataka and the SLP in the Hon’ble Supreme Court have been dismissed.  View the letter

28.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA KOLHAPUR BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA, Kolhapur, Branch held its General Body Meeting on 25.05.2025 in the Conference Hall of Telephone Bhavan, Kolhapur, under the Presidentship of Shri. P S Kulkarni. 52 members attended the meeting. After welcome address by the President, two minutes silence was observed to pay homage to departed souls at the cruel Hands of Militants in Kasmir. S/Shri, DV Powar, V P Kulkarni and AB Joshi, were felicitated on completion of 75 years. One new member, Smt Suma Nair, was welcomed and felicitated. Secretary Shri LM Godi, Org.Secretary(CHQ) Shri Rajan Rajopadhye and senior leader Shri D.K.Joshi spoke in detail on the issues pertaining to the pensioners. Shri L.M.Godi requested to relieve him in view of his long periods of absence from Kolhapur and his personal health. The meeting decided that Shri. C S Walke, the present Finance Secretary, will function as Secretary and Shri JG Kulkarni, will function as Finance Secretary for the remaining period. Shri Sanjay Chouhan, TT was handed over Rs.22000/- collected from the members, towards medical treatment of himself and his entire family following a road accident. President appreciated Shri HG Joshi and Shri M K Walvekar, who attended the meeting at the age of 87 years and thanked the lady members who sponsored the lunch after the meeting.

27.05.2025:

CBDT EXTENDS DATE OF FILING OF INCOME TAX RETURNS DUE FOR FILING BY 31ST JULY 2025 TO 15TH SEPTEMBER 2025:

In view of the extensive changes introduced in the notified Income Tax Returns (ITRs) and considering the time required for system readiness and rollout of ITR utilities for Assessment Year (AY) 2025-26, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has decided to extend the due date for filing returns. Accordingly, to facilitate a smooth and convenient filing experience for taxpayers, it has been decided that the due date for filing of ITRs, originally due on 31 July, 2025, is extended to 15 September, 2025.  View the PIB Press Release

27.05.2025:

DOT ISSUES ORDERS ON GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT TO ABSORBED EMPLOYEES OF BSNL/MTNL FOR THE PURPOSE OF CALCULATING THE PENSION ADMISSIBLE:

Referring to DoP&T OM dated 20.05.2025 communicating the final orders of Supreme Court of India dated 20.02.2025, DoT has communicated its decision that the "Notional increment, as it was due in any month of the year should be drawn in favour of all the eligible retired employeees/third parties who had retired/are retiring from BSNL/MTNL service w.e.f 01.01.2006 as decided for DoT employees also". "The applicability of notional increment guidelines w.r.t the absorbed employees of BSNL/MTNL who retired under VRS Scheme-2019, is being examined. Instructions in this regard will be issued separately".  View the DoT OM

27.05.2025:

MONTHLY GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HELD:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly gb meeting on 18.05.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri R.P.Shrivastava, at Indian Coffee House, New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ and Shri OP Sharma, Vice President shared the dais. 50 members attended the meeting. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of late Shri VG Deshkar and Shri Sunder Das Tulsiyani. On completion of 75 years Shri T R Jain, Finance Secretary was felicitated. Shri P N Dohare and Shri MS Thakurwere also felicitated in view of their birthday falling in this month. Shri Ramu Shahu, a new Life member who joined our association was welcomed. General discussions were held on all the current pensioners issues. The meeting concluded with Vote of thanks by Shri AK Balpande, Asstt. Secretary.

26.05.2025:

GOVERNMENT AMENDS CCS (PENSION) RULES 2021, TAKING AWAY THE PROTECTION PROVIDED UNDER RULE 37 SUB RULE (29) (C) IN THE EVENT OF DISMISSAL OF AN EMPLOYEE ABSORBED IN A PUBLIC SECTOR UNDERTAKING UPON CONVERSION FROM A GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT:

Government issues notification amending CCS (Pension) Rules 2021, calling it CCS (Pension) Amendment Rules 2025, substituting Rule 37 Sub-rule (29), clause (c) [Previously sub Rule 24 C of Rule 37A of CCS (Pension) Rules 1972] which provided that "the dismissal or removal from service of the public sector undertaking of any employee after his absorption in such undertaking for any subsequent misconduct shall

not

amount to forfeiture of the retirement benefits for the service rendered under the Government and in the event of his dismissal or removal or retrenchment the decisions of the undertaking shall be subject to review by the Ministry administratively concerned with the undertaking" with "the dismissal or removal from service of the public sector undertaking of any employee after his absorption in such undertaking for any subsequent misconduct shall lead to forfeiture of the retirement benefits for the service rendered under the Government also and in the event of his dismissal or removal or retrenchment the decision of the undertaking shall be subject to review by the Ministry administratively concerned with the undertaking". By removing a single word 'not', the protection available for the service rendered under the Government in the event of dismissal of erstwhile DoT employees absorbed in BSNL, has been taken away.  View the Gazette Notification

26.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE REQUESTING TO ADDRESS PERSISTING PROBLEMS AFFECTING CGHS BENEFICIARIES POST-MIGRATION TO CDAC PLATFORM:

Drawing attention of the Hon'ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare to the serious difficulties being faced by CGHS beneficiaries, particularly pensioners, following the migration of CGHS software from NIC to the CDAC platform, which was implemented without prior notice and specific plan, a month ago, AIBSNLREA has sought his immediate intervention to get the issues rectified and to ensure that CGHS beneficiaries receive uninterrupted healthcare services.  View the letter

24.05.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA FARIDABAD BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HELD :

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Faridabad Branch was held on 10.05.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri Naresh Bindal. All current issues of the pensioners including the difficulties faced with switching over to new software by CGHS, pension revision, status of our court case on 78.2% fitment were discussed. Members felt that association should file separate case for the pensioner part only. Secretary Shri V.K.Kataria replied to queries from members. Meeting concluded with Vote of Thanks.

23.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (P) DOP&T REQUESTING ISSUE OF CLARIFICATIONS ON ITS MODIFIED ORDERS DATED 20.05.2025 ON GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT TO INCLUDE THOSE WHO RETIRED UNDER VR SCHEME OFFERED BY THE DEPARTMENT/ORGANISATION :

Drawing attention of Secretary (P), DoP&T to our earlier letter dated 24.03.2025 requesting to categorically state that "one annual increment be granted to the pensioners which they earned on the last day of their service for rendering their services preceding one year from the date of retirement with good behaviour and efficiently," reflecting the exact direction under Para 7 of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India judgment in CA 2471 of 2023 and expressing disappointment over DoP&T repeating the same language as it used in its OM dated 14.10.2024, giving room for ambiguity and misinterpretation, AIBSNLREA has requested issue of a clarification that those taking voluntary retirement under a specific scheme offered by the department/organisation, shall also be covered by the DoP&T OM dated 20.05.2025, in order to avoid further litigations, which was the objective of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, while issuing its interim orders.  View the letter

22.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA PRAYAGRAJ BRANCH (UTTAR PRADESH STATE) HOLDS IT GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The Genral Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Prayagraj Branch was held on 19-5-2025 under the Presidentship of Shri L.N.Ojha. Branch Secretary Shri S.M.Tiwari spoke regarding migration to SAMPANN, Issue of Identity Cards, medical payment without voucher, status of our court case, activities of the association at Circle and CHQ level and usefulness of our WhatsApp network. Shri R.R. Shukla, State Vice President made a brief speech on State association activities and provided useful yoga tips. Meeting ended with the President thanking the members for successful conduct of the meeting.

21.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS FOR THE YEAR 2018-19 & 2019-20 IN RESPECT OF SHRI RAVI KUMAR TANDON, RETD AGM LUCKNOW :

Drawing the attention of Director (HR) BSNL to the unending suffering of Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon, a 78-year-old retired AGM from Lucknow, who has been subjected to years of administrative indifference and distress, despite wandering from one office to another, pleading with officials, writing countless emails, and resorting to RTI applications—just to get all his medical claims during the period paid, AIBSNLREA has requested him to cause detailed investigation into the whole matter and to resolve this prolonged injustice, ensuring that Shri Ravi Kumar Tandon receives the balance amount which is rightfully due to him without further delay.  View the letter

20.05.2025:

DOP&T ISSUES ORDERS ADVISING ACTION TO BE TAKEN ON NOTIONAL INCREMENT IN PURSUANCE OF SUPREME COURT ORDER DATED 20.02.2025:

Quoting the final directions of Hon'ble Supreme Court of India in MA No.2400/2024, DoP&T has advised that action may be taken to allow the increment the Central Government employees who retired a day before it became due and have rendered the requisite qualifying service as on the date of their superannuation with satisfactory work and good conduct for calculating the pension admissible to them. It reiterates that the notional increment shall be reckoned only for the purpose of calculating the pension admissible and not for the purpose of calculation of other pensionary benefits.  View the DoP&T OM

20.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA SANGRUR BRANCH (PUNJAB STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Sangrur Branch was held on 17.05.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri P K Jindal in Shree Naina Devi Mandir AC Hall courtesy Shri V K Mittal Director of Dharmshala Committee. Shri R S Sandhu Joint Secretary (CHQ) from Patiala along with his team also participated in the meeting. Two new Life members joined, raising the strength to 44. Shri Shiv Narain Branch Secretary welcomed all and spoke on a few issues pursued at CHQ level. Shri R S Sandhu clarified on doubts raised by the members. The recovery on commutation which was stopped as per CAT interim orders has again commenced wef April, 2025. This case needs to be pursued by CHQ and taken up with appropriate authorities. Shri P K Jindal President spoke about the issues being taken up at CHQ level like notional increment to those who retire in any month one day prior to their increment date, validation of pension rules, CGHS beneficiary facing difficulties due to new software, court case on pay/pension arrears and conveyed satisfaction with CHQ working. Members desired for regular holding of Branch meetings. President Shri P K Jindal announced formation of a new Branch at Sunam with S/Shri Mohinder Singh, Tarlochan Singh and Mange Ram as President, Secretary and Finance Secretary respectively. A hot lunch was enjoyed by the members. Shri Surinder Paul gave vote of thanks, esspecially to Shri R S Sandhu Joint Secretary CHQ who donated one three seater steel armed chair to Shree Naina Devi Mandir AC Hall.  View the Photos

19.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CGCA, DOT REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF ADDITIONAL QUANTUM OF PENSION ON ATTAINING THE AGE OF 80 YEARS IN RESPECT OF SHRI ABDUL RASHIK KHAN, RETD JTO WTR:

Pointing out that "This additional 20% of pension should have been paid to him from 1st of September 2024 as he attained the age of 80 years on 15.09.2024, as the logic to calculate additional quantum of pension has been incorporated in SAMPANN and there is no need to wait for a request from the pensioner", AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DOT to bestow his kind attention to ensure that Shri Abdul Rashik Khan gets his additional pension, along with arrears paid without further delay.  View the letter

15.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL AGAIN REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI S.K.BHARDWAJ SINCE 2021-22:

Since Shri S.K.Bhardwaj Retd EE (Civil) Bhopal had submitted copies of all the medical claim bills which were said to be not traceable by BSNL administration in February 2025, AIBSNLREA has again written to Director (HR) BSNL to empathize with his difficulties and to cause payment of all his pending medical claims without any more delay.  View the letter

13.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL YET AGAIN REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI R.N.BHUNIA SINCE 2018-19:

Expressing dismay over the mental harassment met out to Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia, Retd EE (E), Kharagpur due to non-payment of medical claims for the year 2018-19 and claims without voucher for 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22, although Corporate Office had released the required funds in the year 2023 for clearing all pending bills upto 31.03.2022 and despite assurances in writing twice by Kharagpur administration, AIBSNLREA has again requested personal and urgent attention to the issue and to ensure that the pending medical claims of Shri Rabindra Nath Bhunia, Retd EE (E), Kharagpur are paid without further delay and without further assurances on paper.  View the letter

09.05.2025:

CGHS ALLOWS REIMBURSEMENT OF OPD (INDENT ONLY) MEDICINES AS A SPECIAL SANCTION IN VIEW OF MIGRATION OF HMIS FROM NIC TO CDAC:

In order to alleviate the difficulties being faced by CGHS beneficiaries in availing 'Indent' medicines from the Wellness Centres, CGHS permitted to procure medicines for a period of one month only from the open market based on a valid prescription, irrespective of issuance of a Non-availability Certificate and for the quantity specified in the prescription, as a one-time measure and subject to conditions.  View the CGHS OM

09.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA SHIMLA BRANCH (HIMACHAL PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The monthly General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Shimla Branch was held on 7th May 2025 under the Presidentship of Shri C.R.Chauhan. Two minutes silence was observed on the untimely demise of three family members of our Branch members. Issues discussed in last meeting were reviewed. Restoration of commutation, increase in fixed medical allowance, implementation of SC order on Notional increment, validation legislation in Finance Bill 2025 were discussed. Members were informed that a committee visited the Circle office and discussed with concerned authority early resolution of notional increment requests and were assured settlement of these cases on priority. On the validation legislation, members assured to participate in any kind of action as per CHQ's direction. Members requested to take up the case regarding implementation of Supreme court order dated 17/12/2017 effective from 1/1/2018 regarding seniority at par with juniors. Meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri Munish Chauhan.

08.05.2025:

FOLLOWING AIBSNLREA APPEAL NOT TO CLOSE THE CASE TILL TRANSFER OF PENSION IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.S.RAJPUT IS COMPLETE, CCA MAHARASHTRA & GOA ISSUES ORDERS ON TRANSFER OF PENSION:

A few days back we had reported that CCA MH & Goa has stated that "transfer case could not be processed due to technical issue in SAMPANN. The matter has been taken up with SAMPANN Helpdesk. It will be resolved in due course. Hence the case is disposed of" and that AIBSNLREA has registered an appeal stating that "According to the DoP&PW orders, grievance in CPENGRAMS cannot be closed without resolving the grievance. The docket may please be kept open till it is resolved." We have received a response from DoT that "As per the reply furnished by O/o CCA Maharashtra, the transfer case has been processed", attaching a copy of the order dated 06.05.2025 for transfer of pension.  View the DoT reply

07.05.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 21.04.2025 REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM FOR INDOOR TREATMENT TAKEN IN THE YEAR 2017 IN RESPECT OF SHRI PRAKASH DUBEY RETD SDE, VARANASI:

AIBSNLREA had addressed a letter to the Director (HR) BSNL drawing his attention to the fact that after stating for so many years that the medical claim of Shri Prakash Dubey will be paid after funds are released, BSNL Varanasi had recently informed him that his claim papers are not traceable. AIBSNLREA had requested his intervention. Responding to our letter, a copy of AO (Claims) Varanasi TD communication dated 03.05.2025 has been furnished to us wherein it has been stated that "After great efforts the missing file of Shri Prakash Dubey SDE regarding indoor medical treatment has been traced. Medical claim amount exceeds the limit of BA Head and therefore this case is being sent to circle office for approval."  View the AO (Claims) Varanasi letter

06.05.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING THE CONTINUING DIFFICULTIES FACED BY THE CGHS BENEFICIARIES FOR MORE THAN A WEEK AFTER IMPLEMENTATION OF HMIS DEVELOPED BY CDAC FOR CGHS:

Drawing the attention of the DG CGHS to the significant suffering for the CGHS beneficiaries, starting from inability to login into the new website, inability to book appointments, appointments booked after great struggle not showing in the Wellness Centre requiring to book again at the counter, the doctors not able to see the patients due to non-opening/slowness of the system, inability to prescribe and supply medicines and making referrals, following implementation of HMIS, AIBSNLREA has requested her personal and urgent attention to the matter and to cause immediate resolution of the above-mentioned issues, in order that all the efforts put in for switchover to the new system do not become futile, drawing flak from all the stake holders viz. the CGHS beneficiaries, the doctors and the pharmacists, not to speak of the HCOs.  View the letter

06.05.2025:

E-JOURNAL MAY 2025 ISSUE:

May 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "AICPI (IW) - A DISCONNECT FROM REALITY?" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal May 2025

05.05.2025:

DOT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 17.02.2025 ADDRESSED TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DOP&PW REGARDING NON-COMPLIANCE BY DOT, OF DOP&PW INSTRUCTIONS ON NON-PAYMENT/DELAY IN PAYMENT OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS ON ACCOUNT OF DELAY IN VERIFICATION OF CASTE CERTIFICATE IN RESPECT OF RETIRING EMPLOYEES:

Referring to a specific case of Shri Prakash Khade, a VRS retiree who has been denied his retirement benefits on the plea of pendency of caste verification and citing DoP&PW instructions vide its OM No. 38/09020.00-P&PW (A) (6721)dated 30.11.2021, that "Unless departmental or judicial proceedings are pending against a retiring employee, the pensionary/ retirement benefits of the retiring employee should not be withheld or delayed on the ground of pendency of verification of caste certificate", AIBSNLREA has been pursuing release of the retiral benefits. Contrary to the instructions of DoP&PW, DoT vide its letter dated 30.01.2025 had instructed BSNL to continue to sanction only provisional pension and withhold Gratuity and Commutation till the completion of caste verification. AIBSNLREA took up the matter with Secretary (Pension) DoP&PW. DoT has now replied that "As per the reply furnished by O/o CCA Maharashtra, the provisional pension is being paid, as per the latest provisional sanctions received from BSNL. The regular pension and pensionary benefits will be released after receipt of latest vigilance clearance from BSNL competent authorities".  View the DoT response

01.05.2025:

VIRTUAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. While welcoming the participants, President congratulated all the CHQ office bearers for their best efforts in making the email campaign, that was decided in the last month virtual meeting, a grand success. General Secretary in his introductory speech attributed the success to the collective efforts of the CHQ office bearers who effectively co-ordinated with the Branch and State Secretaries for the purpose. He explained how the programme was appreciated by other Central Government Pensioner associations as most appropriate and how a BSNL pensioner association was compelled to copy it. He said our apprehension has been proved to be correct with the Government asserting in Delhi High Court that it is not obliged to implement its judgment. He then expressed satisfaction over resolution of grievance of Shri Madhusudan Mukherjee who was unjustly penalised by IT department for no fault of his. He mentioned the reply from DoT to our letter on the grievance of Organised Accounts cadre in DoT/BSNL, reply from DoP&T to our letter requesting issue of final orders on notional increment. He thanked Varanasi Branch for contributing Rs.15000 as donation to CHQ and mentioned that a few months back Coimbatore Branch had contributed Rs.10000 as donation to CHQ, both the Branches doing so without asking and without any reason. CHQ office bearers then elaborated on how they co-ordinated with the Branches for the success of Email Campaign. Some office bearers shared their personal experience at wellness centres after migration of CGHS website, like non-supply of medicines, non-acceptance of online appointment, non-access to certain pages in the website, non-acceptance of application for migration to CGHS and non-opening of payment gateway for depositing the CGHS contribution. The meeting decided to wait for more input from Branches and for the teething issues to subside. On the organisational front, it was decided to continue the efforts to open more Branches and to complete reconciliation of membership of Branches with data available with CHQ. President concluded the meeting saying AIBSNLREA has made an impact by delivering what it promises, without 'over-promising and under-delivering'.

30.04.2025:

CCA MAHARASHTRA & GOA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 07.04.2025 ADDRESSED TO THE CGCA DOT, REGARDING UNDUE DELAY IN ACTING UPON THE REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF PENSION FROM CCA MH & GOA TO CCA MP CIRCLE IN RESPECT OS SHRI B.S.RAJPUT:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 07.04.2025 on the matter, CCA MH & Goa has stated that "transfer case could not be processed due to technical issue in SAMPANN. The matter has been taken up with SAMPANN Helpdesk. It will be resolved in due course. Hence the case is disposed of". AIBSNLREA has registered an appeal stating that "According to the DoP&PW orders, grievance in CPENGRAMS cannot be closed without resolving the grievance. The docket may please be kept open till it is resolved."  View the CCA MH & Goa response

30.04.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA GORAKHPUR BRANCH (UP STATE) HELD:

General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Gorakhpur Branch was held on 27.04.2025 under the presidentship of Shri D.P.Upadhaya. Secretary welcomed the members and informed that maximum number of members have sent the email to FM and PM on the request of CHQ. A few members wanted to know the process and papers required for family pension. They wanted the whole process to be posted for wide publicity. Finally the meeting ended with vote of thanks.

29.04.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MP STATE) HELD:

AIBSNLREA Bhopal branch held its monthly General Body meeting on 20.04.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri O.P.Sharma, at Indian Coffee House New Market Bhopal. Shri B S Rajput, Organising Secretary, CHQ shared the dais. 48 members attended the meeting. Secretary Dr H S Saxena explained the activities of the association and invited suggestions or any grievances from the members. No grievance was received. Suggestions were received regarding nomination for Local Advisory Committee of CGHS WC Bhopal-1. Shri P C Malviya was felicitated on completion of his 75 years of age. S/Shri Amar Singh, B R Ingle, M P Tiwari, Hari Om Soni, S K Bedwal and R B Namdeo, were felicitated as their birth day fell in the month of April. New member Shri G P Brijronia was felicitated and welcomed by all the members. After usual rendering of melodious songs, snacks & tea were served. Meeting concluded with vote of thanks by Shri Balpande, Asstt. Secretary.  View the Photos

28.04.2025:

DOP&PW RELEASES THE MINUTES OF THE 34TH SCOVA (STANDING COMMITTEE OF VOLUNTARY AGENCIES) MEETING HELD ON 11.03.2025:

In the Editorial of April 2024 Ejournal, captioned 'Looking Ahead With Confidence', we had emphasized in the concluding paragraph that "AIBSNLREA is determined to confront these real issues of the pensioners – Notional increment for pensionary benefits to those who had retired a day prior to the date their annual increment became due, Increase in FMA from Rs.1000 to Rs.3000 per month, Grant of additional quantum of pension on attaining the age of 60, 65 and 70 years @ 5%, 10% and 15% respectively, and restoration of commutated amount in less than 15 years - (which are part of the resolutions passed in Kolkata AIC) once the new members of Lok Sabha take oath, by following them up from their present status, as we believe that all these issues are genuine, justified and achievable". We had followed it up with a letter addressed to the Prime Minister on 11.06.2024, highlighting these issues and requesting his intervention to resolve them at the earliest possible time. Only the issue of notional increment has reached the final stages of resolution. During the virtual meeting with the Branch Secretaries, we have categorically stated that we intend to make submission to VIII CPC on the remaining three issues as and when it is constituted. Now, according to the Minutes of the 34th meeting of the SCOVA, Department of Expenditure has informed that increase in FMA and restoration of commutation in 12 years may be included in the Terms Of Reference of VIII CPC. For reasons not known the additional quantum of pension after 65, 70 and 75 years does not find a place in the discussions. However, AIBSNLREA will make submission on all three issues to the VIII CPC, which is expected to be constituted in May 2025.  View the Minutes of 34th SCOVA meeting

26.04.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA JABALPUR BRANCH (MP STATE) HELD:

GB meeting of AIBSNLREA Jabalpur branch was held on 10/04/2025 under the Presidentship of Shri C D Khadse Branch President. Branch President, while welcoming the members requested them to send email to PM and FM in case they have not already sent. He informed members regarding CHQ activities regarding important issues. Members enquired about court case, CGHS facilities and pending medical bills. Meeting ended with vote of thanks.  View the Photos

25.04.2025:

BSNL CO FORWARDS AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 03.12.2024 REGARDING GRANT OF PENAL INTEREST FOR LATE PAYMENT OF GRATUITY IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.M.KOLKI TO CGMT MAHARASHTRA CIRCLE FOR ACTION AS DEEMED FIT:

BSNL CO had earlier informed our AGSs that BSNL Maharashtra Circle is not responding to letters on this matter from Corporate Office. Now BSNL CO has forwarded our letter dated 03.12.2024 to CGMT Maharashtra requesting that action as deemed fit may be taken and directly intimated to the complainant, GS AIBSNLREA.  View the BSNL letter

24.04.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 03.01.2025 REGARDING RELUCTANCE SHOWN BY AD CGHS KOLKATA TO MEET OUR OFFICE BEARERS:

Responding to our letter dated 03.01.2025 and a subsequent appeal, JS CGHS has replied that "As per inputs received from AD, Kolkata a meeting was convened on 05.02.2025 at O/o AD CGHS Kolkata, with the said association members. Further, AD Kolkata has been instructed to consider the meeting requests sympathetically in future".  View the JS CGHS reply

23.04.2025:

IMPLEMENTATION OF HEALTH MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (HMIS) FOR CGHS - OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES AND TRANSITION PLAN - ALL CGHS WELLNESS CENTRES TO REMAIN CLOSED TO PUBLIC INTERACTION ON 26.04.2025:

In order to upgrade the existing software system of CGHS, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) has developed HMIS which will be adopted by CGHS and made operational from 28.04.2025. CGHS services will be suspended on 26th April 2025 for final transition activities and all CGHS Wellness Centres will remain closed to public interaction on 26th April 2025. From 28.04.2025, the old CGHS websites www.cghs.gov.in and www.cghs.nic.in will be deactivated. All services and information will henceforth be hosted on the new unified CGHS Digital Platform at www.cghs.mohfw.gov.in. All applications for which contribution payment has not been made by 27th April 2025 will lapse. New applications must be submitted exclusively through the new website.  View the CGHS OM for more details

23.04.2025:

DPE ISSUES ORDERS REVISING IDA RATE W.E.F. 01.4.2025:

DPE has issued orders revising the rate of IDA to 226.5% w.e.f. 01.04.2025 payable to CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  View the DPE OM

23.04.2025:

DIVISION BENCH OF DELHI HIGH COURT HEARS THE REFERRAL FROM SINGLE BENCH REGARDING THE IMPACT AND CONSEQUENCE OF FINANCE ACT 2025 ON THE DECISION OF THIS (DELHI HIGH) COURT:

The Delhi High Court Division Bench today heard the referral from a single Judge on 8th April 2025 'regarding the impact and consequence of the Finance Act 2025, on the decision of this (Delhi High) Court'. Attorney General made a submission, whether the contempt court can make such a referral. The Bench said the Government can agitate that submission either in the contempt court or by making an appeal against the referral. However, the Bench renotified the hearing on the referral for 8th May 2025 at 2.30 PM. Both the parties are required to make a written submission 48 hours before that date. It is heartening that, during the hearing the Bench observed that an earlier decision of a court cannot be undone by making legislation later.

21.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM FOR INDOOR TREATMENT TAKEN IN THE YEAR 2017 FOR THE SPOUSE OF SHRI PRAKASH DUBEY, RETD SR.SDE, VARANASI:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Director (HR) BSNL to non-payment of a long pending medical claim for indoor treatment taken by Smt.Shanti Devi, w/o Shri Prakash Dubey, Retd. Sr.SDE, Varanasi, who has been patiently and innocently waiting for years on the assurance that the payment will be made once funds are made available and has requested his kind intervention to ensure that the indoor medical claim for Rs.375085.84/- by Shri Prakash Dubey is cleared at the earliest.  View the letter

18.04.2025:

ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA VARANASI BRANCH (UP STATE) HELD:

The Annual General body meeting of Varanasi Branch was held on 17/4/2025 in CTX building campus cantt Varanasi under the Presidentship of Shri P M Ansari. Secretary Shri Yad Ali presented his report which was discussed and passed unanimously. Discussions were held on pensioner related issues. The meeting decided to donate Rs.15000/- to CHQ. The following office bearers were elected unanimously.
President. Shri P M Ansari
Vice President Shri c k singh and Sri S P Tripathi
Secretary Shri Yad Ali
Asst Secretary Shri S K Srivastava and Sri S C Maurya
Organising Secretary Shri S P Dubey
Finance secretary Shri G C Gupta
Asst Finance Secretary Shri A B Yadav
Auditor Shri P N S Yadav
Executive members: Shri B P Singh, Shri A G Ansari, Shri L R Prasad , Shri Bechan Ram  View the Photos

17.04.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA INDORE BRANCH (MP STATE) HELD:

AIBSNLREA Indore branch held its GB meeting on 12.04.2025 at Meghdoot Park Exchange building under the Presidentship of Shri SK Jain. The main agenda of the meeting was amendment to CCS pension rules passed in loksabha. Members were eager to know the consequence of this ammendment. Shri NC Yadav, Branch Secretary appraised the house from the CHQ's postings in this regard and the deliberations in a virtual meeting with Secretary (Pension) wherein he had assured that there was no policy change regarding parity and the present policy will continue. However the participant pensioner associations expressed their apprehensions. AIBSNLREA has given a call for email campaign conveying our apprehensions to PM and FM. The meeting ended with the vote of thanks by shri RB Banke Assistant Secretary. 31 members attended the meeting.

15.04.2025:

SHRI MADHUSUDAN MUKHERJEE, RETD JTO KOLKATA FINALLY GETS JUSTICE FROM INCOME TAX DEPARTMENT:

AIBSNLREA has been pursuing to settle an uncommon grievance wherein Shri Madhusudan Mukherjee, Retd JTO Kolkata was penalised by Income Tax department to the extent of Rs.49880/- entirely for the fault of BSNL failing to deposit the TDS recovered from his salary to the IT department, during 2009-10 & 2011-12 while he was in service. After failing to get the issue resolved even after knocking the doors of senior officials in BSNL and DoT, with ALTTC and CTD passing the ball to the other, AIBSNLREA came across IT Circulars dated 01.06.2015 and 11.03.2016 stipulating that "in case of an assessee whose tax has been deducted at source but not deposited to the Government’s account by the deductor, the deductee assessee shall not be called upon to pay the demand to the extent tax has been deducted from his income. It was further specified that section 205 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 puts a bar on direct demand against the assessee in such cases and the demand on account of tax credit mismatch in such situations cannot be enforced coercively." Based on these circulars, the grievance was pursued with the Income Tax authorities and finally Shri Madhusudan Mukherjee has been relieved of his years-long agony with the entire amount being refunded by IT department now. Copies of the IT Circulars are published here for the information of all IT assessees.  View the IT Circulars

12.04.2025:

THE GOVERNMENT TESTS ITS VALIDATION LEGISLATION WITH A SUBMISSION IN A CONTEMPT PETITION BY ALL INDIA S-30 PENSIONERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION & OTHERS:

In a contempt petition filed by All India S-30 Pensioners Welfare Association and two others in Delhi High Court, which was heard on 08.04.2025, on behalf of the UOI, the Addl. Solicitor General submitted that Finance Act 2025 has been passed in the parliament validating decision of the Central Government that "“the Central Government has the authority and shall always deemed to have the authority to classify its pensioners, and may create or maintain distinction amongst pensioners as deemed expedient for implementing the recommendation of the Central Pay Commissions” and "in the light of the extant legislation, the High Court's order dated 20th March 2024 is no longer applicable and the Government is not obliged to implement the said order and hence no contempt arises". However the High Court opined that "a clarification by the Division Bench of this Court, is necessitated, with regard to the order of 20th March 2024 - as to whether the said Finance Act 2025, shall obliterate and eclipse the orders passed by this Court, thereby giving the authority to the Central Government to recognise and endorse the distinction between the various categories of the pensioners" and has referred to the Division Bench, subject to the orders of Hon’ble the Chief Justice. The matter is being placed before the Division Bench on 23rd April 2025, subject to the orders of Hon’ble the Chief Justice.  View the Order of Delhi High Court

10.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA REPRESENTS TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA REQUESTING RESTORATION OF SENIOR CITIZEN CONCESSION IN TRAIN FARES:

AIBSNLREA has again represented to the Prime Minister of India that in view of the significant increase in revenue and net profit of Railways in 2023-24 and 2024-25, it is now an opportune time to reinstate this concession, which is less than 3% of the total subsidy being provided by the Railways. AIBSNLREA emphasises that restoring the senior citizen concession in trains is not just about the financial relief it provides; it is a matter of respect and recognition for the elderly population.  View the letter

09.04.2025:

BSNL AGAIN CALLS FOR FINANCIAL IMPLICATION INVOLVED IN GRANT OF HIGHER PAY SCALES FOR THE STAFF BELONGING TO ORGANISED ACCOUNTS ON ACTUAL BASIS W.E.F. 1.1.1996:

Based on DoT intimation that the Department of Expenditure is seeking approximate financial implication involved in the matter, BSNL sends a second letter to Circles/Units seeking the data on financial implication involved latest by 11.04.2025.  View the BSNL letter

09.04.2025:

DOT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 19.03.2025 REGARDING GRANT OF HIGHER PAY SCALES FOR THE STAFF BELONGING TO ORGANISED ACCOUNTS ON ACTUAL BASIS W.E.F. 1.1.1996:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 19.03.2025 on the subject, DoT has replied that "The Department is in process of pursuing further course of action in the said judgement with the nodal Ministry/ Department and further action will be taken thereupon on receiving the same".  View the DoT response

08.04.2025:

DOP&T RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 24.03.2025 REQUESTING MODIFIED O.M. ON GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 24.03.2025 requesting throrough consideration of developments after issue of earlier DoP&T OM and the issues pointed out by AIBSNLREA before modifying its orders based on the final orders of Supreme Court on the matter of grant of notional increment for those who retired a day prior to their date of increment, DoP&T has informed that the directions contained in the Order dated 20.02.2025 of the Honourable Supreme Court while disposing of MA No. 2400/2024 filed by M/o Railways are presently under consideration in consultation with the other nodal authorities concerned.  View the DoP&T response

07.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA AGAIN REGARDING UNDUE DELAY IN ACTING UPON THE REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF PENSION FROM CCA MH&GOA TO CCA MADHYA PRADESH IN RESPECT OF SHRI B.S.RAJPUT:

Pointing out that Shri B S Rajput had furnished his signature and CCA MP had approved the transfer in SAMPANN as required by CCA MH&Goa, long back, AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DoT to intervene for early completion of the transfer of pension.  View the letter

06.04.2025:

E-JOURNAL APRIL 2025 ISSUE:

April 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "RETROSPECTIVE CHANGES IN PENSION RULES - A LOOMING CRISIS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal April 2025

05.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA GHAZIABAD BRANCH HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Ghaziabad Branch held its GB meeting on 03.04.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri R B Pandey. Branch President. The meeting observed two minutes silence in memory of Shri Shiv Kumar Tyagi who had recently passed away. The Secretary Shri Rakesh Chandra briefed the house about the amendment in pension rules passed by the Parliament and the CHQ initiatives in this regard. All members appreciated CHQ's functioning and the action initiated by CHQ on the issue. Secretary then appealed to all the members to send email as per the text provided by CHQ and make the email Campaign successful. Meeting ended with Vote of Thanks.

03.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA UJJAIN BRANCH (MP STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA Ujjain Branch held its bi-monthly GB meeting on 02.04.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri B C Kulmi Branch President. Shri P K Shukla, Branch Secretary informed about the activities of Association explained the amendment to Pension rules which was recently passed in Parliament. Some personal grievances were also discussed. Meeting ended with vote of thanks.

02.04.2025:

AIBSNLREA LAUNCHES EMAIL CAMPAIGN TO CONVEY THE APPREHENSIONS OF MEMBERS OVER THE AMENDMENT TO CCS PENSION RULES WHICH GIVES AUTHORITY TO THE GOVERNMENT TO CLASSIFY PENSIONERS BASED ON DATE OF RETIREMENT:

In accordance with the decision of the CHQ office bearers meeting held on 01.04.2025, AIBSNLREA has launched an Email campaign to convey the apprehension of members to the Prime Minister of India and the Finance Minister over the amendment to CCS Pension Rules passed in Lok Sabha, arming the government with the authority to classify the pensioners based on date of retirement. The text of the email is provided, which may be sent to the Prime Minister and Finance Minister in the given email IDs viz. connect@mygov.nic.in; appointment.fm@gov.in with the subject showing Apprehension of pensioners over the amendment to CCS Pension Rules. Copy of the email shall be marked to gensecaibsnlrea@yahoo.com. The call for the campaign is also attached.  View Call for email campaign  View Text for the email campaign

01.04.2025:

VIRTUAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. While welcoming the participants, President conveyed the successful completion of CHQ's virtual meets with Branch Secretaries, zone-wise, as per the decision taken in an earlier CHQ office bearers meeting. He gave a small brief on the fallout of the validation legislation on CCS (Pension) Rules passed in the Lok Sabha. General Secretary then gave details of the issue starting from the media reporting in a similar pattern that old pensioners will not get the benefit of pay commission recommendations, due to passing of an amendment in the pension rules, our considered opinion on the way the amendment has been passed as a part of Finance Bill, mention about S-30 pensioners, Finance Minister's reply in Parliament and explained how the amendment providing authority to the Government to classify pensioners based on date of retirement amounts to an effort to undo the settled law on parity between past and future pensioners. He explained the contents of our letter to the Prime Minister on the issue, the virtual meeting Secretary (P), DoP&PW held with the pensioner associations, the assessment of different pensioners associations about the said meeting and our own continuing concern about the Government getting itself armed with draconian provision in the pension rules, which has the potential of being used against the pensioners in the future, if not immediately. He solicited the views of the participants on the next course of action to be taken. The CHQ office bearers shared their views with frankness and clarity on the next course of action, nature of action, 'no agitation in isolation' and the requirement for 'respectful co-ordination'. Based on the views shared in the meeting, it was decided that 1) to run a Email Campaign to begin with by every member sending emails to the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister conveying our genuine apprehensions; 2) to watch for the next course of action by major Central Government organisations and take an appropriate decision and 3) requesting the members to ignore 'friendly' request by Branch/State level BSNL pensioners associations to join their unilateral call for any agitation. Details of the email campaign along with the text for the email to be circulated shortly. The meeting ended with the President hailing the entire CHQ team for being on the same wavelength on the issue.

01.04.2025:

IDA RATE DUE FROM 01.04.2025:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers for the months December 2024, January and February 2025, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.04.2025 is 226.5% [decrease by 2%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.

01.04.2025:

ECONOMIC TIMES PUBLISHES A NEWS REPORT BASED ON AIBSNLREA LETTER ADDRESSED TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF INDIA REQUESTING DROPPING OF PART IV OF THE FINANCE BILL 2025 AND RE-EXAMINATION OF THE MATTER :

Economic Times has published a boxed News report in its online as well as print editions across the country today with a caption "Pension Rule Triggers Disquiet Among Retirees", quoting from our letter addressed to the Prime Minister of India.  View the News Report

01.04.2025:

LABOUR BUREAU RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 11.03.2025 REQUESTING TO ENSURE RELEASE OF FIGURES OF AICPI (IW) FOR FEBRUARY 2025 ON THE LAST WORKING DAY OF MARCH 2025 AS PER LONG ESTABLISHED NORMS:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 11.03.2025 on the subject, Labour Bureau has stated that "As per comments of concerned section AICPI(IW) till the month of January, 2025 has been released and Advance Release Calendar (ARC) for the year 2025 is under consideration". The figure which should have been released yesterday has not been released as yet.  View the Labour Bureau response

31.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA PUNE BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

general body meeting of Pune branch was held on 25.03.3025 in the conference Hall of the Varadshri Sabhagrah, Bajirao Road under the Presidentship of Shri P. V. Deshmukh. President welcomed the members and appreciated them for attending the meeting at a very short notice which was arranged because of visit by State Secretary Shri S.P.Varma to Pune for attending CCA Maharashtra &Goa meeting. More than 80 members attended the meeting. Meeting started with devotional song as a tradition of Pune. Branch secretary Shri G. K. Patil read the minutes of last general body meeting which was passed. Finance Secretary placed the finance report which was passed without any queries. State Secretary in his address covered all the developments at circle and CHQ level, specifically on pension revision, our court case on 78.2, additional pension at the age of 65, 70 & 75years. He replied to all questions raised by the members. Meeting ended with vote of thanks.  View the Photos

29.03.2025:

DOP&PW HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH THE PENSIONERS ASSOCIATIONS ON 'PENSION RELATED MATTERS':

DoP&PW had called for a virtual meeting with the Pensioners Associations on 'Pension related matters' at short notice, today at 10.30 AM, although it is a Saturday. Secretary (P) chaired the meeting and as expected said the meeting was arranged to allay the apprehensions of the pensioners following passing of validation legislation reiterating the authority of the Government to divide the pensioners based on their date of retirement. He said this is not an amendment but only a 'validation' of the existing pension rules. The purpose was to reiterate the authority of the Government while facing court cases. There was no policy change regarding parity and the present policy will continue. Staff Side Secretary of JCM National Council was first called to give his views. JCM Members, Defence pensioners associations and other pensioners associations were allowed to speak, in that order. Our views in our letter to Prime Minister on this matter were reflected by GS AIDEF in his speech. He emphasized that withdrawal of the validation legislation alone can pacify the pensioners. Most of the speakers expressed concern and anguish as to what will happen to pre-2026 pensioners when VIII CPC considers pension revision. To this Secretary (Pension) wanted the pensioners to be optimistic about VIII CPC, as there is no change in the policy. GS AIBSNLREA in his speech thanked the Secretary (P) for arranging the meeting and said that his assurance on VIII CPC fell short of the expectations of the pensioners as he wanted us to be 'optimistic'. He asked what was the need to reiterate the already existing authority with the Government. He could not continue his speech as many participants were simultaneously speaking requesting to hear them. Moments later the meeting was abruptly closed with many participants unable to share their views.

29.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA REPRESENTS TO THE PRIME MINISTER REQUESTING DROPPING OF PART IV OF THE FINANCE BILL 2025 AND RE-EXAMINATION OF THE MATTER:

AIBSNLREA has expressed its strong resentment with deep anguish, concern and profound disappointment to the provisions of Part IV of the Finance Bill 2025 which declares the intention not to continue with parity of pension between present and future pensioners by classifying them on the basis of date or retirement in regard to pension entitlement. AIBSNLREA has requested the Prime Minister to get the Part IV of the Finance Bill 2025 dropped before consideration by the Upper House and in case it is cleared by the Upper House by the time this representation reaches him, not to further process it for consent by the Hon’ble President of India, till the entire matter is re-examined.  View the letter

28.03.2025:

ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HELD:

Annual General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Bhopal Branch was held on 23/03/2025 in the Indian Coffee House, New Market, Bhopal under the Presidentship of Shri K Nagrajan. Two minutes' silence was observed in memory of deceased family members. On completion of 75 years, Shri V.K.Chopra was felicitated with Shreefal, shall and flowers. S/shri HK Sarraf, KG Nagpure, Kamal Rai Shrivastava, GN Shrivastava, US Ranade and VP Namdev were also felicitated on their Birthday falling in this month. Two new members S/Shri Yogendra Singh and Shri A K Dubey were also felicitated with flowers on their joining the association. 56 members attended the meeting. Election for new body was conducted with Shri B S Rajput functioning as Election Officer. Shri K.Nagarajan, Dr.H.S.Saxena and Shri T.R.Jain were elected unanimously as President, Secretary and Financial Secretary respectively.

27.03.2025:

LOK SABHA PASSES VALIDATION OF CCS (PENSION) RULES AND PRINCIPLES FOR EXPENDITURE ON PENSION LIABILITIES FROM THE CONSOLIDATED FUND OF INDIA AS PART OF FINANCE BILL:

In a major retrograde move, the Government gets passed the validation legislation in Lok Sabha according to which, the Central Government has the authority to establish distinctions among pensioners as a general principle and that a distinction may be made or maintained amongst the pensioners, which may emanate from the accepted recommendations of the Central Pay Commissions and in particular the distinction may be made on the basis of date of retirement. This is aimed at undoing the milestone judgment of Supreme Court in D S Nakara case that pensioners for the purpose of pension form a class and cannot be divided by arbitrarily fixing an eligibility criteria like date of retirement, which became the basis of revision of pension of past pensioners, whenever pay is revised for serving employees.  View the PIB Press Release

26.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHQ HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH BRANCH SECRETARIES OF SOUTH ZONE:

CHQ held a virtual meeting with the Branch Secretaries of South Zone today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. All the Branch Secretaries of South Zone joined the meeting except one who could not join due to technical issues. State President, State Secretary of Tamilnadu and CHQ OS (South) were present. After the President welcomed the participants and explained that the purpose of the meeting was solely to hear the views of and suggestions from the Branch Secretaries on further improving the functioning of the CHQ. All the Branch Secretaries, State President and State Secretary Tamilnadu and CHQ OS (S) shared their views. The general impression was that CHQ was functioning extraordinarly well, beyond the limit. Branch Secretaries also spoke about some issues like implementation of CAT Chennai orders allowing stepping up pay of seniors on par with juniors, case of denial of promotion on the basis of pen picture although grading was good, pensioner not aware of cheque issued for his revised pension, CAT Chennai ordering refund of recovered amount on the plea of excess payment several years ago, problems with Tamilnadu CCA, non-settlement of even a single case of notional increment by the CCAs, Pension revision, delay in issue of CGHS plastic cards, Terms of Reference of VIII CPC, SCOVA meeting and discrepancy in life membership list uploaded in CHQ website. While summing up, General Secretary explained the Association's correct understanding on pension revision after thorough discussions in two AICs, there is no scope for including BSNL pension revision in TOR of VIII CPC and CHQ's plan to takeup with VIII CPC for grant of additional quantum of pension after 65, 70 and 75 years which alone looks to be the viable alternate for increase in pension. He expressed concern over the news item about amending pension rules and said that the amendment passed in the Lok Sabha has to be read fully to know its impact. He replied to the queries raised by the Branch Secretaries. He said there is no limitation for excellence and CHQ will take cue from the Seven meetings with Branch Secretaries across the country held during the past three months for further improving the way the CHQ worked. He thanked all the Branch Secretaries saying but for their hardwork, the association would not have thrived and progressed. He emphasised the need to hold regular Branch meetings. President, while concluding the meeting stressed upon adding membership, although in pensioner associations the numbers do not make any difference and thanked the participants for spending their valuable time in making the meeting successful.

26.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 19.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRES IN HALDWANI AND NAINITAL:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 19.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of allopathic wellness centres in Haldwani and Nainital, CGHS has replied that "The Hon'ble Health and Family Welfare Minister has granted approval for opening of CGHS wellness Centres at Haldwani and Nainital. The proposal has been sent to Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance for getting approval of creation of posts for opening of the said wellness Centre."  View the CGHS response

25.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CGCA, DOT REQUESTING ISSUE OF INSTRUCTIONS TO CCAs NOT TO RECOVER TDS ON PAYMENT OF MONTHLY PENSION LESS THAN ONE LAKH RUPEES:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of CGCA DoT towards the provision in Union Budget for 2025-26 that there will be no income tax payable upto income of Rs. 12 lakhs and as the estimated income in respect of those who are receiving a monthly pension of less than Rs.1 lakh will be less than Rs.12.75 lakh, there will be no need to deduct TDS in their cases. CGCA has been requested to issue clear instructions in this regard to all CCAs so that no CCA starts recovering TDS on the plea of absence of specific instructions from above.  View the letter

25.03.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA LUCKNOW BRANCH (UP STATE) HELD:

General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Lucknow Branchwas held on 20/03/2025 in Doorsanchar Sadan at Laplace under the Presidentship of Shri R.K.Srivastva. Two minutes' silence was observed in memory of deceased members. Shri R.S Agrawal was co-opted as Assistant Branch Secretary. Shri Radhey Shyam Organising Secretary briefed the activities and developments at CHQ level and organisational matters and also emphasised increasing membership. Shri A.K. Sharma Branch Secretary submitted his report and spoke about pending Medical Bills of members. It was decided to hold Executive committee meeting virtually on trial basis. Further, use of BSNL PGRMS and CPGRAMS was explained to members. Shri V.P. Singh State Secretary delivered Special address, covering issues like pension revision and restoration of commuted pension. Meeting ended with the President thanking the participants.

24.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY (P), DOP&T REQUESTING ISSUE OF MODIFIED O.M. ON GRANT OF NOTIONAL INCREMENT FOR CALCULATING PENSIONARY BENEFITS TO THOSE EMPLOYEES WHOSE INCREMENT FALLS DUE ON THE DAY FOLLOWING RETIREMENT:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Secretary (P), DoP&T to the dismissal of review petition in Diary No.36418 of 2024 and the final orders in UOI & Anr Vs M.Siddaraj and has requested issue of modified O.M. categorically stating that "one annual increment be granted to the pensioners which they earned on the last day of their service for rendering their services preceding one year from the date of retirement with good behaviour and efficiently," reflecting the exact direction under Para 7 of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India judgment in Civil Appeal No.2471 of 2023 so that there is no scope for different interpretation by different authorities as the petitioners before different courts belonged to different organisations and different categories. AIBSNLREA also has pointed out that neither the interim order dated 06.09.2024 nor does the final order dated 20.02.2025 of Hon'ble Supreme Court mention either specifically or even implicitly that the notional increment shall be reckoned only for the purpose of calculating the pension admissible and not for the purpose of calculation of other pensionary benefits. DoP&T's attempt to deny the consequent pensionary benefits of the notional increment amounts to undoing all the labour and legal struggle by the affected pensioners for nearly 10 years and has requested that this issue may be re-examined, and justice be rendered to the pensioners.  View the letter

22.03.2025:

CGCA RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 24.02.2025 REGARDING NON-COMPLIANCE BY CCA OFFICES OF DOT INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING PERFORMING THE ROLE OF HOO IN SPECIFIC CASE OF REVISIONS:

AIBSNLREA had conveyed to the CGCA DoT that "Now, a large number of BSNL VRS 2019 retirees are submitting applications for commutation of pension all over the country and what is causing concern is that most of the CCAs are reported to be refusing to accept these applications and are directing the pensioners to submit it to the BSNL units, in violation of the instructions by the DoT. This has defeated the purpose of issue of the DoT instructions" and had requested to advise all the CCAs to strictly adhere to the DoT instructions so that the settlement of the cases is not unnecessarily delayed, and the pensioners concerned are not put into avoidable inconvenience". Referring to our letter, CGCA has again addressed all CCAs requesting to follow the said DoT instructions strictly. Wherever the CCAs are still not following these instructions, the State/Branch Secretaries are requested to take up the matter with them with a copy of this letter from CGCA.  View the CGCA letter

21.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 21.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRES IN WARANGAL AND TIRUPATHI:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 21.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of allopathic wellness centres in Warangal and Tirupathi, CGHS has replied that "The Hon'ble Health and Family Welfare Minister has granted approval for opening of CGHS wellness Centres at Warangal and Tirupathi in Telangana. The proposal has been sent to Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance for getting approval of creation of posts for opening of the said wellness Centre."  View the CGHS response

20.03.2025:

CHQ HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH BRANCH SECRETARIES OF GUJARAT STATE:

A virtual meeting of Branch Secretaries of Gujarat State was held today by CHQ under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed the participants and briefed about the purpose of the meeting viz. to listen to the Branch Secretaries and solicit their views and suggestions for improvement of the functioning of the CHQ. After self-introduction, all the Branch Secretaries spoke about the membership strength, periodicity of holding GB meetings and some issues like non-payment of medical claims for two years, GM Surat not willing to meet the association representatives, individual grievances of Shri H S Sutaria, Shri M N Chavda, Shri S S Patel, Shri Contractor and Shri D M Patel, CCA refusing to deliver printed ID cards by Speed Post, procedure for replacing lost ID card and opening of second wellness centre in Vadodara. State President Shri P B Parmar narrated how he wrote to the CCA requesting not to recover TDS consequent to the budget announcement regarding no income tax upto Rs.12 lakhs with standard deduction of Rs.75000 for salaried tax payers and the immediate and positive response from CCA. He wanted to know the Association's stand on pension revision and desired that the association, like others, should write to include BSNL and MTNL pensioners in the Terms of Reference of VIII CPC. State Secretary Shri N P Patel explained as to how he was able to resolve the grievances of pensioners by duly interacting with the CGM and CCA. CHQ OS (W) spoke about his co-ordination with the Branches. General Secretary, while summing up mentioned the purpose of creation of WhatsApp network so that the CHQ messages reach the common member, appreciated the functioning of the State Secretary and replied to the issues raised by the Branch Secretaries, requesting to send details of the grievances to CHQ for taking up after the State association exhausts its efforts. He said the Branches were the roots of the organisation and CHQ was working as a Team, with emphasis on 'we' rather than 'I'. On pension revision he explained in detail, starting from how we have ceased to be Government employees on absorption in BSNL, the concept of pension revision, the disparity that would arise between pre 2017 and post 2017 pensioners, if pension revision is delinked from pay revision, why DoT's proposal for pension revision with 0% fitment was rejected by all, AIBSNLREA writing to DoT to take corrective measures in order that its efforts to find a solution for pension revision without creating disparity between those retiring after 1.1.2017 does no become futile, and the matter becoming sub-judice putting a brake on DoT's efforts. He said that CHQ will take up with DoT to continue its efforts once the court cases come to an end. As far as Terms of Reference of VIII CPC, he said there is no scope for requesting to include BSNL as CPC's job is to examine pay and pay related issues of Central Government Employees. However AIBSNLREA will submit a detailed Memorandum to VIII CPC on the structure of Pension, including restoration of commutation earlier to 15 years and additional quantum of pension after the age of 65, 70 and 75 years. State President, Gujarat reiterated that as BSNL has no liability in paying pension and the entire liability lies with the Government, we are entitled to get pension revision as per CPCs. President wound up the discussion stating that CHQ is continuing with the understanding on the issue arrived at after threadbare discussions in two AICs and as per the mandate given by Kokata AIC, but is open to any new input on the matter including any formulation for pension revision without creating disparity between pre-2017 and post-2017 pensioners. He thanked all the participants for keeping the organisation healthy.

20.03.2025:

VISIT TO BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE:

AGS AIBSNLREA Shri Rakesh Sethi visited BSNL Corporate Office on 17.03.2025. Shri Gaya Prasad, Branch Secretary, Dhanbad accompanied him. Following is the outcome of their discussions with the concerned officers: 1. Orders for release of retirement benefits in respect of Shri Prem Shankar Prasad, Retd. SDE Dhanbad has been issued and sent to CGMT Jharkhand Circle. 2. The work for review of promotion from JTO (T) to SDE (T) on regular basis in respect of Shri M N Chavda, Retd SDE Surat is in progress and orders will be issued at the earliest. 3. The matter of penal interest on late payment of gratuity in respect of Shri B.M.Kolki, Retd SDE Kolhapur could not be discussed as the concerned officers were not available.

19.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO SECRETARY DOT AGAIN REGARDING GRANT OF HIGHER PAY SCALES FOR THE STAFF BELONGING TO ORGANISED ACCOUNTS IN VARIOUS DEPARTMENTS ON ACTUAL BASIS W.E.F. 1.1.1996:

AIBSNLREA has again written to the Secretary DoT, referring to the earlier reply that "the Department is in process of pursuing further course of action in the said judgement with the nodal Ministry/ Department and further action will be taken thereupon on receiving the same” and requesting to speed up the process of consultation and issue of common orders extending the actual benefit of upgraded scale of pay to all the organised accounts cadres under DoT/BSNL w.e.f. 01.01.1996 itself, with consequent arrears.  View the letter

18.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 19.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRE IN SHAMLI:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 19.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of allopathic wellness centre in Shamli under AD CGHS Meerut, CGHS has explained the lengthy process involved in opening of new wellness centres, without explicitly stating that Shamli is not under consideration at present.  View the CGHS response

17.03.2025:

CHQ HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH BRANCH SECRETARIES OF MAHARASHTRA STATE:

A virtual meeting of Branch Secretaries of Maharashtra State was held today by CHQ under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President welcomed the participants and said the only purpose of the meeting was to hear from the Branch Secretaries their views and suggestions over the functioning of the CHQ and any pensioner issue. After self-introduction, all the Branch Secretaries spoke one after the other in one voice that there were no pending issues, as their State Secretary and President were ensuring that all the issues were resolved early. They also praised the role of the CHQ OS (West) Shri Rajan Rajopadhye who was well co-ordinating with the Branch Secretaries. All of them expressed satisfaction about the functioning of the CHQ. State Secretary Shri S.P.Varma said the functioning of the State body and the branches was smooth, issues brought to his notice were resolved promptly, CCA Maharashtra was very helpful and functioning of the CHQ and the way of working of the General Secretary are excellent. State President Shri Vasudeva applauded the team work of the CHQ and mentioned that CCA Mahrashtra & Goa was appreciative of the timely letter from CHQ regarding delay in credit of pension to pensioners served by Canara Bank. As a senior member, he exhorted all to take care of their health first. CHQ OS (W) Shri Rajan Rajopadhye commended the working of Branch Secretaries, detailing his regular interaction with them. General Secretary, while summing up, admired the cohesive activities of the State organisation and the Branches, with no Branch Secretary having any issue to report about. He explained how the association stands tall among other BSNL pensioners associations, following the path, words and thoughts of Basuji. The meeting ended in a delightful atmosphere with exchange of pleasantries.

17.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA DOT AGAIN REGARDING AVOIDABLE DELAY IN ISSUE OF PENSIONER ID CARD TO BSNL PENSIONERS IN REVISED FORMAT:

AIBSNLREA has again written to the CGCA DoT on the subject, reiterating our request that a facility be introduced in SAMPANN allowing the pensioners download the soft copy of the ID card, get it printed and laminated by themselves, similar to the practice being successfully followed by CGHS and that the cards already printed and laminated may be despatched through Speed Post as some cost has been already incurred for printing and laminating and despatching cost should not be seen as prohibitive.  View the letter

13.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 18.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRES IN PATIALA, KANGRA AND DHARMSHALA:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 18.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of allopathic wellness centres in Patiala, Kangra and Dharmshala, CGHS has replied that "The Hon'ble Health and Family Welfare Minister has granted approval for opening of CGHS wellness Centre at these locations. The proposal has been sent to Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance for getting approval of creation of posts for opening of the said wellness Centre."  View the CGHS response

12.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA AMBALA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A general body meeting of Ambala Branch of AIBSNLREA was held on 11th March 2025 at Clove 99 Restaurant under the Presidentship of Sh. V P Madan. 35 members attended the meeting. Two new members joined our branch as life members taking the total membership to 98. President welcomed all the members. Thereafter Shri S C Jain who has completed 80 years of age was honoured with a bouquet and a shawl. Shri S K Aggarwal CHQ OS (North) briefed the members on the various issues particularly about the final decision on the notional increment to those who retired a day prior to their date of next increment. [View Haryana State page of State News Section for full report]  View the Photos

11.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, LABOUR & EMPLOYMENT AGAIN REQUESTING TO ENSURE RELEASE OF AICPI (IW) IN TIME:

Pointing out the delay during the last one year in releasing the All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers, which results in delay in issue of revised IDA orders by DPE, AIBSNLREA has again requested Secretary L&E to ensure release of the figures for the Month of February 2025 on the last working day of this month as per long established norms.  View the letter

10.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 07.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF ADDITIONAL WELLNESS CENTRES IN AGRA:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 07.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of additional wellness centres in Agra, CGHS has replied that "The opening of new CGHS Wellness Centre involves creation of new posts of staff like Medical Officers, Pharmacists, Nursing Officers, Junior Health Administrative Assistants etc and has financial implications. For creation of these posts, the approval of Department of Personnel & Training and Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance is required. Even with creation of minimum posts of staff, the financial implications would involve recurring expenditure of Rs.4.8 crore per year and a non-time non-recurring expenditure of Rs.0.75 crore to Rs.1 crore. For this approval of Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Financeis required. Further, Central Government pensioners residing in non-CGHS areas have the option to avail CGHS facilities from nearby CGHS covered cities. Also, the Central Government serving employees residing in non-CGHS areas not covered by CGHS are covered under another health scheme viz. Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944."  View the CGHS response

08.03.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 12.02.2025 REGARDING OPENING OF WELLNESS CENTRES IN BHARATPUR AND ALWAR:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 12.02.2025 addressed to the DG CGHS regarding opening of allopathic wellness centres in Bharatpur and Alwar, CGHS has replied that "The Hon'ble Health and Family Welfare Minister has granted approval for opening of CGHS wellness Centre at Bharatpur, Alwar, Rajasthan. The proposal has been sent to Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance for getting approval of creation of posts for opening of the said wellness Centre."  View the CGHS response

07.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA SEEKS ATTENTION OF JOINT SECRETARY (PENSION) DOP&PW TO ABSENCE OF ANY RESPONSE BY THE RECEIPIENTS OF EMAILS ON PENSIONER GRIEVANCES FORWARDED BY DOP&PW FOR ACTION:

AIBSNLREA has conveyed its disappointment that despite the earnest and diligent efforts of the DoP&PW to address the grievances brought to its notice, by forwarding them to the concerned nodal officer with a clear request “to look into the matter and resolve the same expeditiously as per extant rules in a time-bound manner under intimation to this department and the concerned pensioner about the action taken. It is requested that the status of the action taken in this case, may be intimated within 21 days”, there has been no response from the recipients of the emails and has requested JS (Pension), DoP&PW to look into the matter and cause monitoring and follow-up of such emails and escalating the matter to the higher authorities in the recipient department so as to make the mechanism truly viable.  View the letter

06.03.2025:

E-JOURNAL MARCH 2025 ISSUE:

March 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "THE NEED TO EXPAND CGHS" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal March 2025

04.03.2025:

BSNL ISSUES GUIDELINES AND CEILING RATES FOR LUNG AND/OR HEART TRANSPLANT:

BSNL has issued guidelines and ceiling rates for Lung and/or Heart transplant based on MoH&FW OM dated 01.12.2023, in respect of unabsorbed DoT employees availing CGHS/CS (MA) and BSNL absorbed and BSNL recruited employees and pensioners availing BSNLMRS.  View the BSNL O.M

03.03.2025:

SUPREME COURT MODIFIES CLAUSE (d) OF ITS INTERIM ORDERS ON NOTIONAL INCREMENT:

While disposing of a batch of Miscellaneous Applications in CA 3933 of 2023, Union of India vs M.Siddaraj, Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has directed that Clauses (a), (b) and (c) of its interim order order dated 06.09.2024 will be treated as final directions. However clause (d) of the interim order will be modified as "In case any retired employee filed an application for intervention/impleadment/writ petition/original application before the Central Administrative Tribunal/High Courts/this Court, the enhanced pension by including one increment will be payable for the period of three years prior to the month in which the application for intervention/ impleadment/ writ petition/ original application was filed.” Further, clause (d) will not apply to the retired government employee who filed a writ petition/original application or an application for intervention before the Central Administrative Tribunal/High Courts/this Court after the judgment in “Union of India & Anr. v. M. Siddaraj”, as in such cases, clause (a) will apply.  View the Orders

01.03.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS MEET HELD VIRTUALLY:

The monthly virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. After a brief speech by the President, General Secretary listed the activities of the association during February 2025, mentioning that efforts to hold Branch Secretaries Meet virtually in respect of Maharashtra and Gujarat States did not materialise due to the two State Secretaries being away from their home towns. These meets will be now held in March. In their brief, the office bearers pointed out that organisational activities remained subdued in February due to continuing cold weather in many States. They described the efforts initiated for opening new branches in a handful of places. General Secretary, while summing up, appreciated the initiatives by the office bearers and requested them to continue their hardwork with confidence and without worrying about any outcome. President called the meeting over after thanking the participants for the enthusiasm shown by them.

01.03.2025:

AD CGHS GRANTS MEETING TO AIBSNLREA WEST BENGAL STATE AND ISSUES OFFICIAL MINUTES:

During the East Zone Branch Secretaries meet held by CHQ virtually on 28.12.2024, we were told that AD CGHS has not been granting informal meeting to AIBSNLREA West Bengal State body even after repeated written requests. AIBSNLREA took up the matter with DG CGHS on 03.01.2025, requesting her to impress upon the need to grant informal meetings to pensioners’ associations like us, on request, as we are only complementing the work done by ADs in different CGHS cities by helping to resolve day to day issues faced by the pensioner beneficiaries. Initially there was reluctance on the part of CGHS authorities saying "It is not always feasible for the Additional Director to meet all the Association bodies on all occasions individually." But after our persistence, meeting was granted on 05.02.2025 and now Minutes of the meeting has also been released.  View the Minutes

27.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MEMBER (S) DOT AGAIN REGARDING HOLDING OF REVIEW DPC FOR PROMOTION TO DE GRADE BASED ON THE REVISED SENIORITY LISTS OF TES GROUP B IN RESPECT OF DE PROMOTIONS ORDERED BY DOT PRIOR TO FORMATION OF BSNL AND EXTENDING THE CONSEQUENTIAL BENEFITS:

AIBSNLREA has again written to the Member (S) requesting to direct BSNL to initiate the process of holding review DPCs in respect of the DE promotions ordered during DoT period, as all the records have been reportedly handed over to BSNL by DoT after formation of BSNL, so as to extend the consequential benefits as directed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India.  View the letter

26.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA KURUKSHETRA BRANCH (HARYANA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A General Body Meeting of Kurukshetra Branch was held in Yatri Niwas a Haryana Tourism Hotel on 19/2/2025. Shri Yash Pal Sharma State Secretary of BDPA attended on our invitation. Branch secretary Shri Chaudhary Rajvir welcomed all. Shri D S Sandhu briefed members on major issue of Pension Revision, 78.2 fitment benefit case, Restoration of commutation and medical reimbursement/CGHS matters. Thereafter Shri Chetan Saklani GM and Shri Deep Sharma Marketing Manager from Vaidyaratnam Vrindavan Ayurvedic Chikitsalya Baddi HP gave a presentation on Ayurvedic/Naturopathy facilities in their hospital empanelled with CGHS and offering cashless facility. It was very informative for those who want to get benefitted with Ayurvedic treatment and Naturopathy. Shri Yogesh Sharma rendered some melodious songs. After the meeting delicious lunch was served.  View the Photos

25.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MEMBER (S) DOT AGAIN OVER THE INORDINATE DELAY IN ISSUE OF VIGILANCE CLEARANCE BY DOT FOR ABSORPTION IN BSNL IN RESPECT OF SHRI H.S.SUTARIA:

After our continuous pursuance with Member (S), SNG section of DoT addressed a letter to DoT Vigilance for taking necessary further action so that Presidential Order for absorption in BSNL can be issued after release of Vigilance Clearance. After several communications between DoT and BSNL, in December 2024 we ascertained that VC request had been submitted to DoT vigilance. Aggrieved with the delay, AIBSNLREA has again requested the personal intervention of Member (S), DoT so that VC for absorption in BSNL is obtained from DoT vigilance without further delay.  View the letter

24.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA DOT REQUESTING TO ADVISE ALL CONTROLLERS OF COMMUNICATION ACCOUNTS TO ADHERE TO DOT INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING THE CCA PERFORMING THE ROLE OF HEAD OF OFFICE IN SPECIFIC CASES:

While large number of VRS retirees are applying for commutation of pension, it is reported that most of the CCAs are not complying with the DoT instructions conveying that in respect of conversion to Family Pension when the eligible claimant is other than the family pensioner mentioned in PPO and commutation revision (including BSNL VRS 2019), all SAMPANN pensioners may submit the respective forms in regard to above two revisions directly to the CCA offices which shall be performing the role of Head of the Office for the purpose of these two revisions. AIBSNLREA has requested CGCA DoT, to advise all the CCAs to strictly adhere to the DoT instructions so that the settlement of the cases is not unnecessarily delayed, and the pensioners concerned are not put into avoidable inconvenience.  View the letter

22.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA TRICHY BRANCH (TAMILNADU STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Trichy Branch was conducted at Hotel Arun, Trichy on 19.02.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri T.Gunasekaran, Branch President. Shri.M.S.Radhakrishnan State Secretary was the Chief Guest. Twenty one members participated in the meeting. Shri.V.Ganapathi Subramanian, Branch Secretary welcomed all to the meeting. Shri. M.S.Radhakrishnan, State Secretary in his speech highlighted the activities of CHQ like regular monthly meetings of CHQ office bearers, releasing e journal promptly every month with very interesting topics covered in editorials, communicating all relevant news to the grass root level members through WhatsApp and most importantly settling of long pending individual representations. He spoke in detail on Restoration of Commutation recovery, Notional increment to those retiring one day in advance of actual increment, SAMPANN issues, KYP applications, DLC updation issues etc. He appealed to enroll more members to our organisation Shri. P.RamachandranShri. U. Ponnusamy, Shri. M.Anandhan, Shri. K.Sivakumar, Shri M.Sivakumar and Shri. S.Benjamin Aroikaraj participated in the discussions. Shri. K. Meyyalagan Financial Secretary gave vote of thanks. The meeting was concluded with a delicious North indian lunch.  View the Photos

21.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRES IN WARANGAL AND TIRUPATHI:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Warangal and Tirupathi and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

20.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO CMD BSNL REGARDING UNDUE DELAY IN REVIEW OF PROMOTION FROM JTO (T) TO SDE (T) GRADE ON REGULAR BASIS IN RESPECT OF SHRI MUKUNDBHAI N CHAVDA, RETD SDE, SURAT:

AIBSNLREA has now sought the intervention of CMD BSNL as the matter is still pending, despite our continuous follow-up, without any sign of early resolution and has requested him to direct completion of the process of review of the regular promotion and subsequent review of time bound upgradation and consequent issue of promotion orders, without further delay.  View the letter

19.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRE IN SHAMLI:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Shamli and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

19.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRES IN HALDWANI AND NAINITAL:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Haldwani and Nainital and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

19.02.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MP STATE) HELD:

A GB meeting of AIBSNLREA Bhopal Branch was held on 16.02.2025 at Indian Coffee House, New Market, Bhopal under the Presidentship of Shri K Nagrajan. 52 members, including super senior citizens attended the meeting. Shri BS Rajput, Organising Secretary CHQ, Shri OP Sharma, Vice Prisident, Shri TR Jain, Financial Secretary, Shri MP Tiwari, Organising Secretary of Branch and shri A K Balpande were on the dais. Secretary Dr. Harisharan Saxena, welcomed all the members. Information regarding the nomination of our Secretary Shri Hari Sharan Saxena, in the Local Advisory Committee of CGHS, Bhopal was shared with the members. CAT Ernakulam order on the matter of alternate connect in lieu of Rent free telepone was also discussed. The meeting expressed happiness over the news that BSNL has earned net profit in Q3 of this year after 17 years. Shri Gondhalekar recited a poem written by him on environmental protection. Shri G P Billore was felicitated on completion of 75 years. New member Shri S K Khare was also felicitated on joining the association shall, shreefal, flowers, Those members were not present in the last meeting were given water bottle. Shri A K Balpande intimated information regarding naturopathy camp in Bhopal. The meeting was concluded with a vote of thanks by Asstt. Secretary Shri AK Balpande. Lunch was served after the meeting.

18.02.2025:

VISIT TO BSNL CORPORATE OFFICE AND SANCHAR BHAWAN:

AGS AIBSNLREA Shri V.P.Arya visited BSNL Corporate office today and had discussions with concerned officers and the following is the outcome of the discussions:
1. Grant of promotion as per court orders - case of Shri M.N.Chavda: The work for grant of promotion is in progress and is expected to be completed early. We expressed our concern over the delay as the Copy of first page of service book had been received from Gujarat Circle two months back and urged to complete the process early.
2. Sanction of penal interest on late payment of gratuity - case of Shri B.M.Kolki: It was stated that Maharashtra Circle has been persisting with its stand that there was no delay on its part. The case is being examined.
3. Release of regular pension and retirement benefits in respect of Shri P.S.Prasad: Pers section is yet to receive vigilance clearance from CVO BSNL. Later Shri V.P.Arya visited Sanchar Bhawan and met DDG (Estt) regarding Vigilance Clearance for absorption in BSNL in respect of Shri H.S.Sutaria. DDG (Estt) could not get the status after talking to the sections and wanted us to get back to her after a week.

18.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRE IN JAMSHEDPUR:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Jamshedpur and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

18.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRES IN PATIALA, KANGRA AND DHARMSHALA:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Patiala, Kangra and Dharmsala and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

17.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY (PENSION) DOP&PW REGARDING NON-COMPLIANCE BY DOT OF DOP&PW INSTRUCTIONS REGARDING NON-PAYMENT/DELAY IN PAYMENT OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS ON ACCOUNT OF DELAY IN VERIFICATION OF CASTE CERTIFICATE IN RESPECT OF RETIRING EMPLOYEES:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary (Pension), DoP&PW drawing his attention towards DoT acting in violation of DoP&PW instructions on the subject and requesting him to direct the DoT authorities to strictly follow the instructions issued by DoP&PW vide its OM dated 30.11.2021 and to release the retiral benefits of Shri Prakash Khade without further delay.  View the letter

13.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA PALAKKAD BRANCH (KERALA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

A General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Palakkad Branch was held on 11.2.2025 at Mini Sheethal Hall of Top In Town, Palakkad under the Presidentship of Shri T.Ramanathan. 45 members, including super senior citizens attended the meeting from different parts of the District with enthusiasm. After silent prayer, the Secretary Shri P.Prabhakaran welcomed the gathering. Shri K.Gopinathan, Organising Secretary (South) of CHQ who was recovering after an accident attended the meeting. During his address to the members, he elaborately explained the activities taken by CHQ on different issues and the special interest taken by General Secretary to resolve those issues by bringing them at appropriate forums for early settlement. He also lauded the GS for holding periodical virtual meetings for the smooth functioning of the Association and to make an awareness among the members of branch units about our approach on various matters pertaining to the Association. Shri T.Ramanathan, in his presidential address spoke about the benefits of the new Income Tax proposals and the tax saving in this regard. During discussion on organisational matters Shri P.Prabhakaran, Secretary answered all the queries raised by the members in matters like, CGHS and opening of wellness centre at Palakkad, Empanelment of hospitals with cashless facility in Palakkkad area under CGHS, BSNLMRS payments, submission of Life Certificate and validation of BSNLMRS cards etc. The meeting was concluded with vote of thanks by Asst Secretary Shri T.P.Krishnanunni. Lunch was served after the meeting.

12.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REGARDING OPENING OF ALLOPATHIC WELLNESS CENTRES IN BHARATPUR AND ALWAR:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to an office order issued earlier by CGHS Directorate directing ADs concerned to visit the 21 locations including Bharatpur and Alwar and ascertain the feasibility, provide data regarding the likely number of beneficiaries and availability of suitable accommodation etc and requesting to ensure that the process is completed early, making the dream of the employees and pensioners in these cities comes true.  View the letter

11.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA THANJAVUR BA BRANCH (TAMILNADU STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Thanjavur BA Branch was conducted in a very grand manner at Kumbakonam on 08.02.2025. Shri R.R.Balasubramanian General Secretary was the Chief guest. Thirty one members participated in the meeting enthusiastically. Shri E.Rajasekaran presided over the meeting. Shri.R.Srinivasan, Secretary, welcomed all to the meeting and explained in detail the functioning of the branch. [View Tamilnadu page of State News section for full report]  View the Photos

10.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT ON NON-PAYMENT OF DEFERRED GRATUITY WITH INTEREST TO SHRI PRAKASH KHADE, SE (E) NAGPUR, RETIRED UNDER BSNL VRS 2019:

AIBSNLREA has written to the CGCA, DOT regarding Non-payment of deferred gratuity with interest to Shri Prakash Khade SE (E) Nagpur, retired under BSNL VRS 2019, even after CGMT Maharashtra conveying to Pr.CCA, Maharashtra & Goa that "the pensionary benefits (pension, gratuity and commutation) of all retired employees against whom fake/false caste certificate complaint is pending, whose VC was clear on the date of their retirement may be released. Similar action may be taken in all similarly placed cases" and has requested him to direct the CCA Maharashtra & Goa to release payment of the deferred gratuity, to consider the request for commutation of pension and to immediately pay the pension for January 2025 of Shri Prakash Khade, without further delay.  View the letter

07.02.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DG CGHS REQUESTING OPENING OF MORE WELLNESS CENTRES AND EMPANELING OF MORE HOSPITALS UNDER CGHS AGRA:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS drawing her attention to the fact that there has been a sharp increase in the number of CGHS card holders and beneficiaries in Agra with a doubling of the figures during the past two years. Due to this phenomenal increase, the single wellness centre is struggling to meet the needs of the visiting beneficiaries. AIBSNLREA has therefore requested her to get the issue examined with urgency and cause opening of additional welfare centres and empaneling of more HCOs in Agra.  View the letter

06.02.2025:

E-JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2025 ISSUE:

February 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "AIBSNLREA - OUR PRIDE" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal February 2025

05.02.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 07.01.2025 REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM SINCE FY 2021-22 IN RESPECT OF SHRI S.K.BHARDWAJ, RETD EE (CIVIL) BHOPAL:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 07.01.2025 addressed to the Director (HR) BSNL on the subject, PGM BA Jabalpur has furnished the status of medical claims of Shri S.K.Bhardwaj, mentioning that most of the bills mentioned by him could not be traced out.  View the BSNL reply

04.02.2025:

CGHS RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 12.12.2024 REGARDING DIFFICULTIES FACED BY BSNL PENSIONERS VISITING COIMBATORE WELLNESS CENTRE:

Drawing attention to the difficulties faced by CGHS beneficiaries visiting Coimbatore Wellness Centre AIBSNLREA had written to the DG CGHS on 12.12.2024 requesting posting of an additional medical officer and an additional pharmacist. CGHS has now replied that "Coimbatore Wellness Centre is having sanctioned post of 1 medical officer and 1 pharmacist only, however due to patient load surge, 1 post is transferred from Tirunelveli Wellness Centre and one medical officer is posted. As far as pharmacist is concerned matter will be taken up with the Directorate."  View the CGHS reply

03.02.2025:

BSNL RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 13.01.2025 REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM WITHOUT VOUCHER SINCE FY 2021-22 IN RESPECT OF SHRI K.ARUNACHALAM II, RETD JTO TP TIRUNELVELI:

In response to AIBSNLREA letter dated 13.01.2025 addressed to the Director (HR) BSNL on the subject, CGM, CNTx, Chennai has replied that the retired officer was in medical claim with voucher scheme since 01.04.2019 and had opted for without voucher w.e.f. 01.04.2023. Medical claim for the year 2023-24 is under process and will be paid shortly.  View the BSNL reply

02.02.2025:

FAQ ON PERSONAL INCOME TAX AND RATIONALISATION OF TDS/TCS:

CBDT has released FAQs on the changes proposed by Finance Minister in her budget proposals for 2025-26. The FAQs related Personal Income Tax and Rationalisation of TDS/TCS alone have been compiled and presented here for the information of the taxpayers. Please take note of the marginal relief provided for those who have an income marginally above 12 lakh rupees.  View the FAQs

01.02.2025:

VIRTUAL MEETING OF AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS HELD:

A virtual meeting of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. President in his introductory speech expressed happiness over the success of Meeting with Branch Secretaries of different Zones held during the past two months. General Secretary while reporting the activities of CHQ and developments on various issues during last month, explained how we were able to convince DoT to modify its earlier O.M on notional increment which had mentioned that it is applicable to only Central Government employees, now extending the benefit to BSNL absorbed pensioners too. He appreciated the contribution of the office bearers towards keeping the organisation energetic, listing the contributions by each office bearer. He requested the office bearers to now concentrate on opening of new branches. The office bearers in their review report committed themselves to specific targets. There were discussions on pension contribution on existing pay, notional increment implementation, expediting the process of extending CGHS to Alwar and Bharatpur, restoration of commutation and status of court case on 78.2%. General Secretary explained that there is no scope for demanding inclusion of BSNL pensioners and their pension revision in Terms of Reference of VIII CPC. He said that the association will submit a memorandum to VIII CPC at the appropriate time on the principles that govern the structure of pension and other retirement benefits, which if accepted will be applicable to BSNL pensioners also. The meeting lasted for nearly two and a half hours. The meeting ended with the President thanking the participants for their useful contribution to the association.

01.02.2025:

FINANCE MINISTER GIVES SOME RELIEF TO MIDDLE CLASS BY PROPOSING ACROSS-THE-BOARD CHANGE IN INCOME TAX SLABS AND RATES:

In her Budget speech the Finance Minister has proposed that “There will be no income tax payable upto income of Rs. 12 lakh (i.e. average income of Rs.1 lakh per month other than special rate income such as capital gains) under the new regime. This limit will be Rs.12.75 lakh for salaried tax payers, due to standard deduction of Rs. 75,000.” Tax rebate is being provided in addition to the benefit due to slab rate reduction in such a manner that there is no tax payable by them, she added.  View the PIB Press Release

31.01.2025:

DOP&PW HOLDS VIRTUAL MEETING WITH PENSIONERS ASSOCIATIONS:

DoP&PW held a virtual meeting today evening with the registered pensioners associations. Secretary (Pension), who Chaired the meeting, thanked the associations for their participation in DLC Campaign 3.0 and wanted suggestions from the associations for planning something big like that during the year 2025. During the interactive session many participants representing Central Government, Defence and Railway pensioners spoke about issues faced by them, mostly regarding the grant-in-aids. General Secretary AIBSNLREA drew attention to the unusual delay during the past one year by Labour Bureau in publishing the AICPI (IW) and the unexplained delay by DPE in issuing orders for revision of rate of IDA, which results in the pensioners not getting the increased DR in time and anxiety to the pensioners as the DR arrears are not paid to all the pensioners at the same time and taking over a month for credit and requested DoP&PW to take up with the concerned Ministries. JS (Pension) while winding up the meeting said all the points have been noted and assured that follow up action will be taken on all of them. He informed that SCOVA meeting will be held shortly.

31.01.2025:

CHQ HOLDS VIRTUAL MEET WITH BRANCH SECRETARIES OF UTTAR PRADESH STATE :

CHQ held a virtual meet with Branch Secretaries of AIBSNLREA Uttar Pradesh today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. Most of the Branch Secretaries attended the meeting, with ease, as AIBSNLREA UP State had held its executive meetings earlier virtually and also had a trial virtual meet a day earlier. After CHQ President initiated discussions, expressing satisfaction over the attendance, all the Branch Secretaries spoke on their perception over the functioning of CHQ, issues to be taken up by CHQ, clarifications required on some issues and thanking CHQ for holding a meeting with the Branch Secretaries. State Secretary UP and CHQ OS (North) then gave a short speech. Overall, Branch Secretaries conveyed that members are happy with CHQ functioning, instant sharing of information through WhatsApp groups and transparency in activities. Opening of additional CGHS wellness Centres in Agra and Medical College Road in Gorakhpur, non-settlement of the case of counting of training period for pension in respect of Shri A.K.Dubey, pending medical claims without voucher in Jaunpur, Lucknow and Prayagraj, annual re-validation of medical card, BSNL Prayagraj forcing submission of option for with/without voucher every year, allowing holding of meeting in BSNL premises, decreasing the age limit from 70 for online referral for investigation/treatment in empanelled hospitals, empanelled hospitals not providing entitled wards to CGHS beneficiaries and an arrangement required for pursuing cases with the other BSNL Cicle within the UP State were the points mentioned by the Branch Secretaries. While summing up, General Secretary explained the status, rules on the matter, progress made through our efforts and assured that CHQ will take up the issues with concerned authorities as required. He requested the Secretaries to obtain representations from the affected members and send them to CHQ. In response to the request from a participant, he explained the decision of Madurai as well as Kolkata AICs on pension revision. After ascertaining that there were no more queries from any participant, President thanked all the participants, particularly State Secretary UP and CHQ JS for enabling almost full attendance in the meeting and declared the meeting as closed.

30.01.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA NADIAD BRANCH (GUJARAT STATE) HELD:

The General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA, Nadiad Branch was held on 27.01.2025 at Nadiad in Luhar, Suthar gnati ni wadi, Nadiad under the Presidentship of Shri K R Dalal, Branch President. The meeting started with observing silence for two minutes in memory of members Shri M K Lakhwani, and Shri Adambhai I Vahora who had left us. After prayer by Shri N S Bhatt, the members who sponsered the meeting were honoured. Shri N R Patel, Secretary and Shri K R Dalal, President addressed the meeting. Shri B M Patel, wanted his Notional increment case to be pursued . The meeting was held in a healthy atmosphere. The meeting ended with vote of thanks by Shri A H Malek, ADS, followed by lunch.  View the Photos

28.01.2025:

DPE ISSUES ORDERS REVISING IDA RATE W.E.F.1.1.2025:

After unexplained delay, DPE has issued orders revising the rate of IDA to 228.5% payable to CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.  View the DPE OM

28.01.2025:

BSNL ISSUES GUIDANCE TO ITS UNITS ON NOTIONAL INCREMENT:

BSNL has issued a letter intimating its units that the benefits flowing out of the DoT's decision for grant of notional increment for pension is to be allowed by the concerned CCAs. Hence the Circles/Units are requested to forward the notional increment cases to the concerned CCAs.  View the BSNL letter

28.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA DHANBAD BRANCH (JHARKHAND STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Dhanbad Branch was held on 25.01.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri B.B.Ram. Secretary Shri Gaya Prasad welcomed the gathering. Apart from the general issues pertaining to pensioners, Non-Rembursment of hospital bills by CGHS for the last two years, Non-payment of medical claims by BSNL for the past two years and regularisation of pension of Shri Prem Shankar Prasad were highlighted. It was decided to hold AGB in April 2025. 10 new members joined the association in the meeting.

27.01.2025:

CGHS CIRCULATES STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR TRANSITION TO ONLINE MODE FOR PROCESSING PERMISSION FOR RESPIRATORY DEVICES:

CGHS Directorate vide F.No.29-1/2025 CGHS EZ dated 22.01.2025 has issued an Office Memorandum detailing the SOP for transition to online mode for processing permission for respiratory devices such as CPAP, BIPAP and Oxygen Concentrator.  View the CGHS O.M

24.01.2025:

BSNL ISSUES CLARIFICATIONS ON PROCEDURES UNDER BSNLMRS:

BSNL vide No.BSNLCO-ADMN/12(12)/1/2025-ADMN dated 23.01.2025 has issued clarifications in respect of validity of prescription, reimbursement for treatements in Government Hospitals, Medical claim from two sources and reimbursement towards artificial appliances.  View the BSNL letter

23.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA KOLHAPUR BRANCH (MAHARASHTRA STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

AIBSNLREA, Kolhapur Branch held its General Body Meeting on 19.01.2025 in the Conference Hall of Telephone Bhavan, Kolhapur, under the Presidentship of Shri P S Kulkarni. 40 members attended the meeting including those from Sangli, Ichalakaranji. President welcomed the members wishing Happy New Year 2025. Secretary Shri LM Godi, informed about the sad demise of Shri A D Kamble, member from Rukadi of Ichalkaranji and the House observed 2 minutes’ silence as a mark of respect. Shri R G Koli, & Shri V B Mahajan, who have completed 75 Years were felicitated, with Shawl, Shriphal,& Bouquet. Then Secretary informed the developments on the issues of pensioners in General and BSNL in particular, regarding Pay/Pension Revision of BSNL Employees/Pensioners. [View Maharashtra Page of State News section for full report]

22.01.2025:

DOT ISSUES REVISED ORDER ON NOTIONAL INCREMENT ALLOWING THE BENEFIT TO THE ABSORBED EMPLOYEES OF BSNL WHO RETIRED/RETIRING A DAY BEFORE THEIR ANNUAL INCREMENT BECAME DUE:

We would like to recall that when DoT issued an O.M. on 18.10.2024 allowing the benefit only to Central Government employees, AIBSNLREA immediately wrote to DoT requesting review of its decision and issue of revised orders. DoT had replied to us on 18.11.2024 stating that "the matter is under examination with Nodal departments i.e Department of Personnel & Training and Department of Pension & Pensioners' Welfare." DoT has now issued an O.M. vide No.38-45/2024-Pen(T)(Part-1) dated 22.01.2025 conveying its decision that "notional increment will be extended to the absorbed employees of BSNL/MTNL also who retired/are retiring a day before it became due in any month of the year."  View the DoT O.M

22.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE JOINT SECRETARY (PENSION) DOP&PW REQUESTING HIM TO IMPRESS UPON CHAIRMAN CBDT FOR CLOSURE OF NOTICE ISSUED UNDER SECTION 22 (2) OF INCOME TAX ACT TO SHRI MADHUSUDHAN MUKHERJEE RETD JTO KOLKATA:

In the virtual meeting held by DoP&PW with the pensioners association on 13.01.2025, JS (Pension) DoP&PW had assured that any specific grievances remaining unresolved for a long period could be brought to his notice so that it can be taken up with the concerned department. AIBSNLREA has now sought his attention to the long pending grievance of Shri Madhusudhan Mukherjee who has been penalised by IT department because of the fault of BSNL not fully depositing the TDS recovered from him with IT department during the years AY 2009-10 & 2011-12. AIBSNLREA has requested him to take up the matter with the Chairman CBDT in order that the notice issued to Shri Mukherjee is closed and the amount adjusted from his IT refunds is returned to him.  View the letter

21.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA JABALPUR BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General body meeting of AIBSNLREA Jabalpur branch was held on 18/01/2025 at ICH Ghantaghar Jabalpur. Inspite of extreme cold, members attended in time. President congratulated the members for New Year 2025 to have their best health and happiness. Shri A N Bhargav gave a detailed information on virtual meeting held on 28/12/2024 with CHQ. Members shared their experience during school days and everybody enjoyed. Senior members crossed 80 shared their daily routine as to keep fit and healthy. Members whose birth date fell in January were felicitated. Sweet and snacks were distributed. Meeting ended with vote of thanks and some cultural activities.  View the Photo

20.01.2025:

SECRETARY (PENSION) DOP&PW SENDS A CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION TO AIBSNLREA FOR ITS CONTRIBUTION TO THE SUCCESS OF DLC CAMPAIGN 3.0:

DoP&PW has issued a Certificate of Appreciation to around a dozen Pensioners' Associations for their active participation in DLC Campaign 3.0. AIBSNLREA is one among them. AIBSNLREA had earlier conveyed that "Unlike the Central Government pensioners who have to submit their Life Certificate in November every year, the expiration of Life Certificate of BSNL absorbed pensioners falls in different months for different pensioners, throughout the year. Therefore the significance of November is lost as far as BSNL absorbed pensioners are concerned. Also, we can proudly say that 80% of BSNL absorbed pensioners already submit their Life Certificate using Face Authentication RD App every month. Our Branches hold mela themselves to help the pensioners. Anyway, as AIBSNLREA is part of the DLC Campaign 3.0 and desires to be identified with the great effort by DoP&PW, we are taking the information to all our members through a well-knit WhatsApp network. Office bearers of our Branches across the country will join the DLC Campaign 3.0 by taking part in camps organized by CCAs throughout November." The poster circulated by AIBSNLREA on the occasion was appreciated as 'well designed and looking good' by DoP&PW. In all fairness, the credit goes to the Branches and members who took active part in the camps and even organised their own camps.  View the certificate  View the poster

18.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA UTTAR PRADESH STATE HOLDS ITS EXECUTIVE MEETING VIRTUALLY:

AIBSNLREA UP State Executive meeting was conducted virtually on 16.01.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri R.B.Singh State President. State office bearers and all the Branch Secretaries were present. Availability of only one CGHS wellness centre in AGRA, causing sufferings to the pensioners, Opening of one more CGHS wellness centre to mitigate the sufferengs, delay in payment of medical claim without voucher by Ballia,Jaunpur, non-payment of medical claims to pensioners of Lucknow were some of the issues highlighted. Shri B.S.Saini, Shri A.K.Dube, Shri A.K.Sharma, Shri V.S.Awasthi, Shri RY.Sharma, Shri S.M.Tiwari, Shri Yad Ali gave useful suggestions regarding CGHS, BSNL MRS and CCA related matters. Joint Secretary CHQ Shri R.K.Sinha addressed the meeting and narrated the activities of the CHQ. The meeting appreciated the functioning of the CHQ. The meeting ended with the President thanking the participants.

17.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE REGARDING THE NEED TO EXPAND THE LIST OF CGHS CITIES BY RELAXING THE NORMS:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Minister of Health & Family Welfare requesting his special attention to the need for expanding the list of CGHS cities with a fast pace in order that the retired Central Government employees have access to quality and comprehensive healthcare services without having to travel long distances and requesting him to cause relaxation of the norms for expanding CGHS to new cities and get such expansion fast-tracked in order that the Government keeps up its constitutional obligation towards the retired employees to ensure to protect their Right to Life and enabling them to live with dignity and equality.  View the letter

16.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA ODISHA STATE AGB HELD:

Annual General Body meeting of Odisha State was held on 11.01.2025 under the Presidentship of State President Shri Sanatan Das. State Secretary Shri P.K.Kar delivered welcome address. Two minutes silence was observed in memory of our departed leaders Shri D.L.Das, Ex. Vice President and Shri Rajani Kant Das. President in his presidential address gave a brief of AIC Kolkata, apprised about Constitutional amendment on life membership fee. Salient points like Pay Revision update, Commutation before 15 years, enhancement of quantum of pension after 65 years, Notional increment, 78.2% fitment status, DLC and its applicability for Concessional Telephone and BSNL MRS, providing space for Pensioners' Association to hold meetings in Administrative offices, Access to Pensioners' portal of GOI were discussed. Plan for new membership drive was initiated. One new member was enrolled during the meeting. Some members paid donations for better functioning of the State Body. Election of new office bearers was unanimous with Shri Sanatan Das, Shri P.K.Kar and Shri Nakul Mahapatra elected as President, Secretary and Finance Secretary respectively. Meeting ended with Vote of Thanks by the State Secretary.  View the office bearers list

16.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA INDORE BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body meeting of Indore branch was held on 11.01.2025 at Shakuntal Meghdoot park Exchange building under the Presidentship of Shri RC Garge. Secretary Shri NC Yadav explained about 78.2 fitment case. He briefed the members about the virtual meeting of branch secretaries of central and eastern zone conducted by CHQ. He also informed the members about the issues taken up by the CHQ. After General discussions, the meeting ended with the vote of thanks by Secretary.

15.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE SECRETARY, DPE REGARDING DELAY IN ISSUE OF ORDERS OF REVISION OF IDA RATE AGAIN, NOW W.E.F. 1.1.2025:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Secretary, DPE conveying the dismay of BSNL pensioners over the unjustified and unexplained delay, yet again, in issue of orders for revision of IDA rate w.e.f. 1.1.2025 till now, pointing out the problems arising out of the delay both to the pensioners as well as the PDAs and has requested him to bestow his personal attention to the matter and cause issue of orders for revision of IDA w.e.f. 01.01.2025 immediately and to ensure that there is no delay in the future and the pensioners, at their advanced age, are spared of the unnecessary anxiety and concern.  View the letter

14.01.2025:

GENERAL BODY MEETING OF AIBSNLREA UJJAIN BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HELD:

General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Ujjain Branch was held on 13.01.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri B.C.Kulmi. 22 members attended the meeting. Senior most member Shri S.C.Pandey was seated in the dais. Secretary Shri Prafull Shukla briefed the meeting about developments at CHQ level, discussions in the virtual meet of Branch Secretaries of East and Central Zone, meeting with Ujjain BA authorities regarding non-reimbursement of medical claims. Opening of CGHS at Ujjain, payment of medical claims, timely declaration of AICPI and submission of Form A were part of the dicussions. Members who had crossed the age of 75 years were felicitated. Homage was paid to departed souls. It was decided to hold meetings once in two months.

13.01.2025:

DOP&PW ISSUES OM REITERATING SENDING OF SMS TO PENSIONERS REGARDING ACCEPTANCE/REJECTION OF DIGITAL LIFE CERTIFICATE:

DoP&PW has issued an O.M vide F.No.1(2)/2023-P&PW(H) dated 13.01.2025, reiterating the existing guidelines that the Pension Disbursing Authorities are required to send SMS messages to the pensioners, confirming acceptance/rejection of their DLC, in order to ensure corrective action by pensioners.  View the DoP&PW OM

13.01.2025:

DOP&PW HOLDS VIDEO CONFERENCE TO CREATE AWARENESS ABOUT CPENGRAMS:

DoP&PW held a meeting through Video Conferencing, Chaired by Joint Secretary, DoP&PW Shri Dhrubajyoti Sengupta today, with the pensioners associations registered under Pensioners Portal. The purpose of the meeting was to create awarness about using CPENGRAMS for resolving the grievance of pensioners. A video showing how three family pensioners got their grievance resolved using the portal had been made and was shown on the screen. Step by step procedure for lodging grievances in CPENGRAMS portal was displayed using power point. During the interactive session, GS AIBSNLREA said, his association was extensively using CPENGRAMS for the past few years, had suggested many improvements to the system which were duly incorporated by DoP&PW and mentioned that despite clear guidelines from DoP&PW regarding forwarding the grievance to the appropriate authority and appeal to be considered and speaking order issued, this is not being followed. He pointed out that the nodal officers should not be allowed to dispose the grievance on the plea that court matter/subjudice matter are not allowed in CPENGRAMS. Requests for implementation of orders by courts are rejected on this excuse, which should not be allowed, he said. He requested that there should be a provision for second appeal as in the case of RTI. After listening to the points raised by other pensioner associations, JS DoP&PW, while summing up spent a considerable time in answering the points raised by GS AIBSNLREA. He said CPENGRAMS is being re-written entirely using AI driven platform for mapping and correct forwarding of grievances. He agreed that the appeals should be considered with proper application of mind and a speaking order be issued by the appellate authority. He said that the entire appellate mechanism will be streamlined in the near future. He assured that suitable instructions will be issued to differentiate really subjudice issues from those where courts have already issued orders. He mentioned that a Pension Adalat will be held in February and SCOVA meeting very soon. He said that any specific grievances remaining unresolved for a long period could be brought to his notice so that it can be taken up with the concerned department. He concluded the meeting with the information that a follow up meeting will be held in the next two to four weeks.

13.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIM WITHOUT VOUCHER SINCE 2021-22 - CASE OF SHRI K.ARUNACHALAM II, RETD.JTO TELECOM PROJECT, TIRUNELVELI:

AIBSNLREA has written to the Director (HR) BSNL, drawing his attention to Non-payment of medical claim without voucher since FY 2021-22 in respect of Shri K Arunachalam II, Retd JTO, Telecom Project Tirunelveli, Tamilnadu and requesting his intervention to cause early payment.  View the letter

11.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA NORTH ZONE (EXCEPT UTTAR PRADESH) BRANCH SECRETARIES' VIRTUAL MEET HELD :

AIBSNLREA CHQ held a virtual meet of its North Zone (Except Uttar Pradesh) Branch Secretaries today, under the Presidentship of CHQ President Shri V.Chinnapappiah. Some Branch Secretaries were unable to join as their first time effort to join a virtual meet did not fructify. It was amazing to witness the enthusiasm shown by the Branch Secretaries, trying to learn and use a new communication tool, in spite of their age. They were happy to see each other in the virtual meet and putforth their views on various issues powerfully, seeking to know more on those issues. Opening of CGHS in Yamunanagar, empanelment of more private hospitals under Ambala CGHS, reimbursement of medical claims belatedly, status of review of notional increment orders by DoT, restoration of commutation in 12 years, additional quantum of pension after the age of 65, 70 and 75 years, pay/pension revision, provision of FTTH in lieu of rent free telephone in Delhi, pay at par with MTNL Executives and relaxation in CGHS rules for all senior citizens. While summing up, the General Secretary clarified the points raised and explained the status of the issues discussed. All the participants expressed satisfaction over working of CHQ with some terming it as nice. President wound up the meeting after requesting the Branch Secretaries to fully utilise the WhatsApp channels to share all the information provided by CHQ on daily basis.

10.01.2025:

CGCA DOT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 02.12.2024 REQUESTING TO STOP ADVANCE RECOVERY OF TDS ON THE INTEREST PAYABLE ON GRATUIY TO BSNL VRS RETIREES:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 02.12.2024, CGCA DoT has repliled that "an SOP on deduction of Income Tax on account of interest payable on deferred gratuity at the time of actual payment of the same has already been issued to all CCAs vide this office letter No.13-6/2020-21/2577-2605 dated 27.09.2024." State/Branch Secretaries may take up with the concerned CCAs if TDS is still being recovered in advance, in violation of the above SOP.  View the CGCA letter

09.01.2025:

CGCA DOT RESPONDS TO AIBSNLREA LETTER DATED 02.01.2025 REGARDING NON-CREDIT OF DECEMBER 2024 PENSION TO CANARA BANK CUSTOMER-PENSIONERS:

Responding to AIBSNLREA letter dated 02.01.2025, CGCA DoT has repliled that "The issue of delay in credit of pension was faced in the month of December 2024 due to some technical issue between SBI CMP hyderabad and Canara Bank. The issue has been resolved and pension has been disbursed to all pensioners."  View the CGCA letter

09.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA BHOPAL BRANCH (MADHYA PRADESH STATE) HOLDS ITS GENERAL BODY MEETING:

General Body meeting of AIBSNLREA Bhopal Branch was held at Hotel Rajhans, MP Nagar on 05.01.2025 under the Presidentship of Shri Nagrajan, Branch President. Shri O.P.Sharma Vice President, Shri H.S.Saxena, Secretary and Shri T.R.Jain, FS were on the dais. 75 members attended the meeting, many along with their families, in view of dawn of New Year. Members with date of birth falling in January were felicitated. Finance Secretary placed the Accounts for 2024 and was passed unanimously. After general discussion on pensioners' issues, there was a mood of celebration with melodious songs by members. Memento was distributed to all members. After Vote of thanks by Shri H.S.Saxena, Branch Secretary, meeting ended with a Grand Lunch.

08.01.2025:

SUPREME COURT ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OUR SUBMISSION TO CHIEF JUSTICE OF INDIA:

A communication has been received from Supreme Court of India yesterday (07.01.2025) acknowledging the receipt of our Petition dated 08.11.2024 submitted to the Chief Justice of India and providing a reference number for checking the status, with the present status showing 'under process'. We are re-publishing the submission for quick reference.  View our Petition to CJI

07.01.2025:

BSNL ISSUES CLARIFICATION REGARDING OTT PLAN ON FTTH FOR SERVING/RETIRED EMPLOYEES AT THE RESIDENCE:

BSNL has clarified that only Add-on OTT plan can be allowed on payment basis at par with customer for serving or retired employees on FTTH at the residence.  View the BSNL letter

07.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE DIRECTOR (HR) BSNL CO REGARDING NON-PAYMENT OF MEDICAL CLAIMS OF SHRI S.K.BHARDWAJ RETD.EE (C), BHOPAL SINCE THE YEAR 2021-22:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of Director (HR) BSNL CO to non-payment of medical claims with voucher for the years 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25 in respect of Shri S.K.Bhardwaj, Retd. EE (Civil) Bhopal, in spite of his repeated representations and has requested his intervention for payment of his medical claims without further delay.  View the letter

07.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA ODISHA TO HOLD ITS STATE CONFERENCE:

AIBSNLREA Odisha State Conference will be held on 11.01.2025 from 11.00 AM onwards in Tarini Temple Complex behind CGMT, BSNL, Odisha Office Building, under the Presidentship of Shri Sanatan Das, State President. All members and interested BSNL retired executives are requested to attend the Conference.

06.01.2025:

IDA RATE DUE FROM 01.01.2025:

According to calculations based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers for the months September, October and November 2024, the revised IDA rate due w.e.f. 01.01.2025 is 228.5% [increase by 4.3%] for CPSEs where the last pay revision was implemented w.e.f. 1.1.2007.

06.01.2025:

E-JOURNAL JANUARY 2025 ISSUE:

January 2025 issue of AIBSNLREA E-journal with the Editorial "THE CASE FOR TAX FREE INTEREST INCOME" has been uploaded. All the issues of the E-Journal can be downloaded from the drop down menu "EJournal Archives" at the top of the website. The "View" links in the e-journal lead to the respective letters/orders.  View the E-journal January 2025

03.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO DG CGHS REGARDING RELUCTANCE SHOWN BY AD CGHS KOLKATA TO MEET OUR OFFICE BEARERS INFORMALLY:

AIBSNLREA has written to the DG CGHS about the reluctance shown by AD CGHS Kolkata to meet our office bearers despite several requests and has requested her that AD Kolkata and all ADs in general are impressed upon the need to grant informal meetings to pensioners’ associations like us, on request, as we are only complementing the work done by ADs in different CGHS cities by helping to resolve day to day issues faced by the pensioner beneficiaries.  View the letter

02.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA WRITES TO THE CGCA, DOT, ON NON-CREDIT OF PENSION FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2024 IN RESPECT OF TELECOM/BSNL PENSIONERS DRAWING PENSION THROUGH CANARA BANK AND THE NEED TO INFORM THE PENSIONERS, THE REASON FOR THE DELAY AND ENSURING IMMEDIATE CREDIT:

AIBSNLREA has drawn the attention of CGCA, DoT, to the contradictory information from different authorities, adding to the confusion and the net result is that the concerned pensioners are left to suffer, whatever be the cause of this humiliating failure on the part of the system of pension payment under SAMPANN, as a whole. The affected pensioners are completely kept in the dark. We feel that they are entitled to be duly informed of the delay and the reason for it. AIBSNLREA has requested to ensure that pension is credited to the accounts of affected pensioners immediately, certainly not taking a week’s time, and they are duly informed individually through SMS about the delay and the reason for the delay in order to remove their anxiety and misgivings. Action needs to be initiated against the failing intermediary to avoid recurrence.  View the letter

01.01.2025:

AIBSNLREA CHQ OFFICE BEARERS VIRTUAL MEET HELD:

A virtual meet of AIBSNLREA CHQ office bearers was held today under the Presidentship of Shri V.Chinnapappiah, CHQ President. The meeting condoled the demise of CHQ AFS Shri R.F.Valand and observed one minute silence as a mark of respect. After introductory remarks by President, General Secretary listed the developments during December 2024 and expressed gratitude over the contribution by all the CHQ office bearers in the organisational activities. He expressed concern over non-credit of pension to the pensioners drawing pension through Canara Bank till today and the contradicting information provided by different authorities. He pointed out that the pensioners are entitled to know the reason for the delay through SMS individually using SAMPANN. While reporting their activities during the month, the office bearers raised some queries, on our request for review of DoT orders on notional increment, our prayer in 78.2% fitment court case, restoration of commutation in 12 years and pay parity with MTNL executives, which were discussed in some Branch meetings. General Secretary mentioned about the DoT reply to our letter seeking review and re-issue of its order on notional increment, stating that it is under examination in consultation with DoP&T and DoP&PW. He said a positive decision is expected. He clarified the queries raised. President then mentioned about the successful conduct of Virtual Meeting with Branch Secretaries of Central and East Zones. The meeting concluded with the President thanking all for the lively deliberations.