From: krishanlal jaspal
Sent: Wednesday, June 03, 2009 1:38 PM
To: v_nattu@hotmail. com ; vnat@vsnl.net
Subject: DISCRIMINATION IN FIXATION OF PENSION OF PRE -2006/Sep 2008 PENSIONERS.
DISCRIMINATION IN FIXATION OF PENSION OF PRE -2006/Sep 2008 PENSIONERS.
1 Article 14 strikes at arbitrariness in State action and ensures fairness and equality of treatment to all. It is attracted where equals are treated differently without any reasonable basis. The principle underlying the guarantee is that all persons similarly circumstanced shall be treated alike both in privileges conferred and liabilities imposed. Equal laws would have to be applied to all in the same situation and there should be no discrimination between one person and another if as regards the subject-matter of the legislation their position is substantially the same.
2 It only means that all persons similarly circumstanced shall be treated alike both in privileges and liabilities imposed. Equal laws would have to be applied to all in the same situation, and there should be no discrimination between one person and another if as regards to the same subject matter..
3 Article 14 forbids class division. The classification is founded on an intelligible differentia which distinguishes persons or things that are grouped together from those that are left out of the group and that differentia must have a rational nexus to the object sought to be achieved by the statute in question. The DP&T P&PW have divided the homogeneous class of present, past and future pensioners while issuing their memorandums for the purpose of fixation/revision of their pension consequent upon the 6th CPC report.
4 The main and common grievance applicable to the existing pensioners is of the denial to the pre-2006 pensioners and some of the later period of the arbitrary introduction of words of limitation. There is nothing immutable and incontrovertible about the choosing of an event as an eligibility criterion subsequent to a specified date. If the event is certain but its occurrence at a point of time is considered wholly irrelevant and arbitrarily selected having an undesirable effect of dividing a homogeneous class and of introducing discrimination, the same can be easily severed and set aside by any court of the country. It is therefore just and proper that the words introducing the arbitrary fortuitous circumstances which are vulnerable as denying equality be severed and struck down.
5 The point to note is ‘the benefit of revised scales of pay in the pay bands and grade pay is not limited to those who enter service subsequent to the date fixed for introducing revised scales but is extended to all those in service prior to that date’. Even in the case of the new retirees; the benefit of gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972, past service was taken into consideration. It is therefore emphasized that the scheme of liberalisation is not for new retirees benefit. Pension has correlation to average emoluments and the length of qualifying service and the liberalisation is not meant merely for the future retirees after a specific date.
6 It is well known that the pension is a right and not a bounty or gratuitous benefit. The payment of pension does not depend upon the discretion of the Government alone but it is governed as per the constitution of the nation and by the rules framed by the parliament thus a government servant coming within the preview of those rules is entitled to claim the pension.
7 The demand of “One Rank One Pension (OROP)” has been raised time and again by the defense personnel, though it may have to imply to all the central Govt. pensioners, may they have retired from defence forces or from any other central Govt. departments and/may they have already retired or future retirees. Unfortunately and regrettably, all the preceding CENTAL PAY COMMISSIONS ( CPC ) and the Governments have been shying away this legitimate demand. It is mentioned with anguish, agony, pain, grief and distress that it has been happening despite the fact that certain main political parties of the country like Congress Party and Bhartia Janta Party, included this demand in their election manifestoes. This subject was also included in the President’s address in the Parliament in 2004 thereby making OROP the declared policy of Government (not of any particular political party).
8 Principally, the concept of OROP implies that, who have retired or will be retiring from the same rank/post with the same length of service, should always get same amount of pension, irrespective to their dates of retirements and total length of service provided to the nation. 6th pay commission has discussed this issue vide Para 5.1.46 & 5.1.47 (Pages 338 & 339) of its report. 6 CPC and has held that “The Fifth CPC extended full parity between pre & post 1/1/1986 pensioners and a modified the parity between pre & post 1/1/1996 pensioners to bring them at par. In modified parity, it was provided that pension could, in no case, be less than 50% of the minimum of the corresponding Fifth CPC revised pay scale from which the pensioner had retired.” This principle was fully and strictly followed in letter and spirit by the Govt. and THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG AND PENSIONS (DEPTT OF PENSION AND PENSIONER’S WELFARE) RESOLUTION NO. 38/37/08-P&PW (A).
9 Nonetheless, consequent on 6th CPC report and the subject matter OROP is being taken up separately by the defense personnel. Here in, the subject matter is the case of application of pro rata of 33 years service, which was earlier applicable to all the central govt. employees, serving as well as retired ones; including defence forces personnel. Now, the 6th CPC have taken off this clause, but, the DP&T, P-PW have still incorporated for the pre 2006 pensioners and few others from a selected specific date in their OMs on their own without assigning any authority or reason.
10 It is emphatically and vigorously point out that in accordance with the Article 14 and the principle of modified parity, the 6th CPC has recommended as under:-
11 The 6th CPC report with beneficial amendments will be applicable w.e.f. 01 Jan 2006 .
12 “The full pension will be granted 50% of last pay drawn of the pay band of the post plus grade pay after rendering 20 years of service. The earlier clause for grant of full pension of 33 years is categorically and unconditionally removed.
13 Further, in the case of existing pensioners, it is clearly mentioned in the 6th CPC Report that the revised pension will be calculated after multiplying the previous pension by a factor 2.26, but it will in no case, shall be lower than fifty percent of the sum of the minimum of the pay in the pay band and the grade pay thereon corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale from which the pensioner had retired”.
14 In the Ministry of Personnel, PG and Pensions (Deptt of Pension and Pensioner’s welfare) Resolution No. 38/37/08-P&PW (A) dated 29 08 08, it is clearly stated under item No. 12 that the Govt. had accepted the contents of para 5..1.47 of 6th CPC Report with the modifications; in that fixation of pension shall be based on a multification factor of 1. 86 i.e. basic pension + Dearness Pension (wherever applicable) + dearness relief of 24 % as on 01 01 06 instead of 1. 74 some other similar points which are beneficial to the employees.
15 The 6th CPC in para 5 1 .47 of its Report has said that “in order to maintain the existing modified parity between present and future retirees, it will be necessary to allow the same fitment benefit as is being recommended for the existing Government employees.” The 6th CPC concludes Para 5. 1. 47 by recommending that “The fixation as per this table will be subject to the provision that the revised pension, in no case, shall be lower than fifty percent of the sum of the minimum of the pay in the pay band and the grade pay thereon corresponding to the prerevised pay scale from which the pensioner had retired. To this extent, a change would need to be allowed from the fitment shown in the fitment table. The Govt. accepted this without any objection.
16 Ministry of Finance, Deptt of Exp. (Implementation Cell), vide their O M No. 1/1/2008-IC dated 30 08 08 issued detailed instruction for implementation of 6th CPC Govt. accepted report, enclosing with it the Fitment Tables S – 1 to S – 34; (later in some cases favourable amended) allotting Revised Pay Band + Grade Pay for each Pre-revised Pay Scale. In column 1 of each table the minimum pre-revised basic pay is indicated and in second column Minimum Pay in the Pay Band, in third column Grade Pay and in last column Revised Basic Pay is indicated.
17 Ministry of Personnel, PG & P, Deptt of Pension and Pensioner’s welfare, vide para 4.2 of Memorandum F No.38/37/08- P&PW (A) dated 2nd September 2008, issued instructions for the implementation of the Govt. ‘s decision for fixation of revised pension of pre-2006 pensioners/family pensioners. They have again repeated in the para “the Revised Pension in no case shall be lower than 50 % of the minimum of the pay in pay band plus the grade pay corresponding to the pre-revised pay scale from which the pensioner had retired.” In view of the point explained above, the Finance Ministry’s has made it amply clearly, visibly and undoubtedly emphasized that the full pension will be 50% of the last pay drawn plus grade pay. Thus, in all the case of present, future including all the existing pensioners of pre 2006 period; it will be fixed 50% of the minimum pay of the pay band of the post plus grade pay of the post. As such there is no deference in either case. Here, the pension fixation authority has to ascertain the old pay scale of a pensioner to fix/revise his pension in the corresponding revised pay band and grade pay. Based on it, his pension is to be re-fixed accordingly.
18 However, it was further added in the above office memorandum No: 38/37/08-P&PW(A) dated 2.9.2008 Government Servants who retired during 1.1.2006 to 1.9.08 after completion of 33 years of qualifying service will be eligible for full pension and the pension of those Government Servants who retired before 2.9.08 with qualifying service of less than 33 years will continue to be proportionate to the full pension based on their actual qualifying service.
19 It may be noted that hereafter the application of Pro rata of 33 years has nothing to do in any case for fixation of pension of the existing pensioners, hence not required to be applied in any one’s case. In all the cases, henceforth, the pension is to be fixed based on 2o years of service rendered. However, if pension is granted in the cases where service rendered is less than 20 years, in such cases, the pro rata of 20 years is to be applied since the condition of grant of full pension is 20 years; especially, as the clause of 33 years is especially and principally removed by the 6th CPC .
20 We all know and elaborated above in detail that as per 6 CPC recommendations for pension benefits which were implemented by the Government, CG employees who have completed the qualifying service of 20 years will be eligible for full pension (viz., 50 % of last pay drawn). However, the Government gave effect to this order only from 2.9.2008 and those who retired before 2.9.2008, completion of 33 years of service is mandatory for getting full pension.
21 Save for, in spite of such a clear position, the DP&T, overlooking and ignoring the contents of 6th CPC and resolution of the Govt, it sad to point out that the DP&T have still incorporated the clause of pro rata of 33 years for fixation of pension in the cases of the existing pre-2006 pensioners which is utterly, and absolutely discriminatory, biased, prejudiced, bigoted and inequitable. They seem to have done it without obtaining clarification from the 6th CPC or Cabinet or Central Govt. Even if they have obtained approval of the Govt., they could have done it by misleading, in disingenuous manners, deceptively and deceivingly. In view of this fact it seems the DP&T P&PW have done it with an ulterior, inexplicable, puzzling, baffling and mysterious motive, they will not come within the preview of this order.
22 It is pertinent to highlight the fact that the Constitution Bench of Honorable Supreme Court of India gave decision in case of D S Nakra and others Verses Union of India (1983) 1 SCC 305 . One of the questions posed in the case was whether a class of Pensioners could be divided for the purpose of entitlement and payment of pension into those who retired by certain date and those who retired thereafter. The Constitution Bench held that such division being both arbitrary and unprincipled; the classification did not stand the test of Article 14. The argument that the cut off date had to be fixed in view of the limited financial resources available to cover up additional expenses to be incurred on account of revision of pay scale was not accepted by the Constitution Bench of the honorable Supreme Court. This exactly applies to the case of pre-2006 and post 2006 Pensioners. In case it is still done by the DP&T, P&PW, it will be a case of violation of Article 14 of Constitution of India as well as against the ruling of Constitution Bench of honorable Supreme Court of India cited above.
23 Another similar case: The Honorable Supreme Court of India in Civil Appeal No. 5566 of 2006 vide Special Leave Petition (Civil) No. 12357 of 2006, Union of India and others Appellants Vs. SPS Vains (Retd.) and other Respondents; gave its another historical Judgment on 09 09 08, involving the similar matter of equality wherein the honorable Supreme Court fully agreed with the decision given by Constitution Bench of Honorable Supreme Court of India in D S Nakra case.
24 It is therefore once again emphasized that the division of Pensioners in two groups namely pre – 2006/Sep 2009 pensioners and post – 01 Sep 2009 pensioners, with a cut off date of 01 09 06, is violative of Article 14 of Constitution of India and against the above cited ruling of the honorable Supreme Court of India.
25 But in spite of all what has been brought out above, the MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG AND PENSIONS (DEPTT OF PENSION AND PENSIONER’S WELFARE) RESOLUTION NO. 38/37/08-P&PW (A), Pension have issued orders contrary to Art. 14 and Apex court judgement. This has defeated the very concept of 6th CPC and Govt resolution, according to which, the minimum pension is now to be reduced applying pro-rata of 33 years in the cases where the pensioner had put in less than 33 years service. It is thus utterly, absolutely, out-rightly, and wholly overlooking and neglecting the contents of CPC report, and Govt., resolution, according to which pension is to be fixed after 20 years 50% of last pay drawn for the future retirees after Jan 2006 and 50% of minimum of the pay band plus grade pay. This seems to have been done by them considering as if there themselves are the Govt. of India and there is no one above them. Also, they seem to have done it intentionally, considering that they will never be affected of such a clause, 20 years clause of the 6th CPC will remain operative/applicabl e for them. If 33 years clause was to be made applicable by them, it should have been made applicable for future retirees as well even after the ensuing/subsequent pay commission reports. It is considered sadistic decision of the DP&T, P-PW by the entire nation/public, whosoever reads this clause.
26 It is once again re-iterated that the condition of 33 years service is neither mentioned anywhere in the 6 CPC neither report nor it is in Government Resolution. No policy on common matters can be framed without any reason/logic. It is rather not clear and known as to on what basis and with whose consent this condition has been incorporated while changing the original orders. Obviously, the concept of 6th CPC and Govt. resolution has been completely ignored by the implementing authorities.
27 In this regard it is worth to discuss the rulings of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, which enjoy the status of LAW OF THE LAND . 6th Pay Commission has referred to the famous judgment in the case of D.S. Nakra Vs Union of India ( AIR 1983, SC 130) vide Para 5.1.3 of its report. This Judgment pronounced by a Constitution Bench of Supreme Court is available at http://judis. nic.in/supremeco urt/qrydisp. aspx for the benefit of all who want to read it. The case dates back to 70s when the Government had introduced Liberalized Pension Scheme. Earlier pension was calculated based on the average salary of last 36 months. Under Liberalized Pension Scheme, the provisions were changed to calculate the pension based on the average salary of last 10 months. The case was filed by one retired civil officer (subject to Central Civil Pension Rules 1972) and one retired defense officer (subject to Army Pension Regulations) and the third petitioner was a Registered Society. Only the following extracts of this judgment will clarify the LAW OF THE LAND :
28 “Proceeding further, this Court observed that where all relevant considerations are the same, persons holding identical posts may not be treated differently in the matter of their pay merely because they belong to different departments. If that can't be done when they are in service, can that be done during their retirement? Expanding this principle, one can confidently say that if pensioners form a class, their computation cannot be by different formula affording unequal treatment solely on the ground that some retired earlier and some retired later.”
29 “All pensioners whenever they retired would be covered by the liberalised pension scheme, because the scheme is a scheme for payment of pension to a pensioner governed by 1972 Rules. The date of retirement is irrelevant. But the revised scheme would be operative from the date mentioned in the scheme and would bring under its umbrella all existing pensioners and those who retired subsequent to that date. In case of pensioners who retired prior to the specified date, their pension would be computed afresh” Another recent Judgment pronounced by Hon’ble Supreme Court on 9th September 2008 is available at http://judis. nic.in/supremeco urt/qrydisp. aspx for the information authorities and others. This case was originally filed by some Retired Major Generals of the Army with regard to fixation of their pension after implementation of 5th Pay Commission. Government of India filed an appeal in the Supreme Court against the judgment of Punjab High Court, (Civil Appeal No. 5566 of 2008, Special Leave Petition (Civil) No. 12357 of 2006 Union of India vs. SPS Vains (Retd.) and others). In this case Hon’ble Supreme Court has directed as under:
30 “We, accordingly, dismiss the appeal and modify the order of the High Court by directing that the pay of all pensioners in the rank of Major General and its equivalent rank in the two other wings of the Defence Services be notionally fixed at the rate given to similar officers of the same rank after the revision of pay scales with effect from 1.1.1996, and, thereafter, to compute their pensionary benefits on such basis”.
31 It is abundantly clear from the above extracts that the Hon’ble Supreme Court has already accepted the principle of equality and this enjoys the status of the LAW OF THE LAND . It may be noted from the foregoing that the implementing officials of 6th CPC have not followed the contents of 6th CPC and Govt. resolution while issuing various clarifications.
32 Deprival of due and that too justified due of Revised Pension has created gloom and obscurity as well as a great resentment, antipathy and umbrage amongst all the pre-2006 retirees, since they are helpless due to their old age and financial constraints. I may not hesitate to accept that it may not be possible for the effected pensioners, especially due to financial constraints, all of them spread in far flung areas in the country and in their advanced age to approach Courts of Law to seek justice. Please do have mercy on them. They feel most cheated, disgusted and frustrated, as though the 6th CPC had done justice with the pre-2006 retirees, which was accepted by the Govt. with the approved of the Union Cabinet with favorable amendments, but, subsequent modifications and amendments issued under Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pension, and Deptt. Of Pension and Pensioner’s welfare vide various OMs., pertaining to fixation of all the pre-2006 Pensioners has shattered their hope and aspirations beyond imagination.
33 There being a great injustice, prejudice and discrimination to the pensioners; an earnest request is made to all the politicians, MPs, Ministers, Govt. servants, entire public of the nation, luminaries, news papers, media/electronic media and readers, the pension associations of all the departments of the country as well as all the pre-2006 pensioners and their well-wishers to make public this issue so that our Political Leaders are made aware of it, who can take some urgent remedial action in the matter.
34 In view of the situation explained above, all the concerned authorities are requested to please do look into this matter without any prejudice, chauvinism, narrow-mindedness, discrimination and insularity to initiate suitable action and amendment to remove the unwarranted, gratuitous, uncalled-for, unjustifiable and unsubstantiated pro rata clause of 33 years which has been incorporated intentionally or un-intestinally. Most urgent or as early as possible of the concerned authorities is solicited please.
35 I whole heartedly and sincerely convey my personal and special thanks to all the politicians, MPs, Ministers, Govt. servants, entire public of the nation, luminaries, news papers, media/electronic media and readers, the pension associations of all the departments of the country as well as all the pre-2006 pensioners and their families to co-operate and assist with the old pensioners and convince/ask the concerned authorities to do the needful in the matter most urgently please.
Yours Sincerely,
Col. (retd). K L Jaspal.
Email address: krishanlaljaspal@ yahoo.co. in
DISCRIMINATION IN FIXATION OF PENSION OF PRE-2006/Sep 2008 PENSIONERS-Courtesy Col K.Jaspal(Retired)
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From: Anil Dhir dhiranil@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: "REPORT MY SIGNAL" - IESM SITREP FOR 04 JUN 09 - EMAIL 447/2009 - 05 JUN 09 - (C to G)
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Friday, 5 June, 2009, 8:10 AM
God bless our CORE GROUP team as also our brotheren, who sweated out under hard-ship at Jantar Mantar, day after day, for a just cause, as also for each one of us!
Those who shared their apprehensions about IESM action, had aired their views in frustration, as have been proven now! The fact remains that their apprehensions did boost up the detemination & resolution of Our Core Group, that is now achieving results in right direction, at right levels!
If we pause and think impartially, as to where our hopes were when IESM had 'started' just a few months ago (last year), and where our hopes have reached today, I am awesomely astonished!
IESM has done more than wonders so efficiently, for making OROP concept reach at national level, over such a short period, bearing healthy buds of hope, to turn into flowers to bear fruits of their efforts..... for both, all those who have served, and also serving in our Defence Forces....
It is natural for me, therefore, to have feeling within me to share and convey... JAI HO!
We do belong to a 'wonderful' family of our Armed Forces.... we the serving and veterans thereof!
Anil Dhir
Monday, June 8, 2009
Views by R Adm G Kuruvilla
From: george kuruvilla george_kuruvilla2000@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: [indianveterans] ESM sitrep 06 Jun evening-New Approach -Action plan
To: "REPORT MY SIGNAL(CS Kamboj)" kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 9:44 PM
Dear Gen Kadyan ,
1)Your mail of 06 Jun is really thought provoking , yes the credit for the appointment of Committee with Cabinet Sectertary as Chairman goes to our movement under your Captaincy - IESM,
2)Can we for a minute look at solving the problem adopting another approach, now we have a golden opportunity . Rather than branding all the members of the Cabinet Secretary Committee as “anti Service " , help them, convince them, carry them with us with supporting facts and figures to help us .
3)I am convinced that if this Committee recommends OROP it will get the support from RM ,FM and PM and will get implemented.
4)But what is our argument in support of OROP, yes it was well debated and discussed by all Veterans / Legal experts amongst us and it was presented to all concerned, good enough .
5)The important aspect is , have we ever looked at it any time from the point of view of the Finanial Pandits ? ( there is no point in arguing that Govt had written off huge sum of Agricultural loan etc etc ). The ground reality is that the Govt have to find additional funds to the tune of Rs 2700 crores to pay the arrears of OROP and another Rs 600 crores annual recurring revenue expenditure for introduction of OROP.
6)Rather than the technicalities of the issue, the main issue before this Committee is the generation /availability of huge funds required for implementation of OROP . Can we help them in this regard , so that they can help us .The question is how do we find the money?
7)YES ,there is a simple way - TWO BIRDS AT ONE SHOT. Ensure that the proposal ( Liberalized ECHS ) submitted 3 years back by a Techno management Consultant R Admiral G Kuruvilla ( Retd) is implemented. Understand that the proposal is still haunting the ECHS authorities, never mind, if the Liberalized ECHS is implemented, the savings made in Capital expenditure itself is more than that is required for the payment of arrears of OROP and the additional funds required yearly for payment due to OROP is less than the savings Liberalized ECHS can make in revenue expenditure every year. Let us use the words which can be more appealing to the Financial Wizards, yes we are proposing a MATCHING SAVING for the implementation of OROP .
8)I have a request to make to ALL the ESM organizations and elder ESM brothers in the Country , please spare 10 minutes to understand that the Liberalized ECHS proposal gives lot of additional privileges to the Urbanites . (by making the system more user friendly and access friendly) Only Negative point is that those in Rural areas will also be able to enjoy the same privilege which was earlier monopolized by Urbanites. Is it not a shame that all ESM Organizations ( including the few where I am heading ) which are City based never did anything worthwhile for the prime requirement of about 85% of our unlucky brothers settled in Rural areas (out of which 95 % of them are PBOR category) . PBOR Organizations are of the opinion that most of the ESM Organizations are officer dominated and that is the main reason for the inaction by most of these Organizations in looking after the TOP most requirement of Rural Veterans.
9)Think what is the best line of action as an Organization in this regard .I am sure A CONGRESS MAN like Maj Rao can play a key role in this regard.I am always available for providing any clarification to any one in this regard. I wish I had been stationed in Delhi !. We must try hard in this direction and I am sure WE can and WE could achieve what we want.
LET US NOT MISS THIS LAST CHANCE IN OUR LIFE TIME .
Warm regards
07 Jun 09 Rear Admiral G Kuruvilla VSM (Retd)
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Subject: Re: [indianveterans] ESM sitrep 06 Jun evening-New Approach -Action plan
To: "REPORT MY SIGNAL(CS Kamboj)" kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 9:44 PM
Dear Gen Kadyan ,
1)Your mail of 06 Jun is really thought provoking , yes the credit for the appointment of Committee with Cabinet Sectertary as Chairman goes to our movement under your Captaincy - IESM,
2)Can we for a minute look at solving the problem adopting another approach, now we have a golden opportunity . Rather than branding all the members of the Cabinet Secretary Committee as “anti Service " , help them, convince them, carry them with us with supporting facts and figures to help us .
3)I am convinced that if this Committee recommends OROP it will get the support from RM ,FM and PM and will get implemented.
4)But what is our argument in support of OROP, yes it was well debated and discussed by all Veterans / Legal experts amongst us and it was presented to all concerned, good enough .
5)The important aspect is , have we ever looked at it any time from the point of view of the Finanial Pandits ? ( there is no point in arguing that Govt had written off huge sum of Agricultural loan etc etc ). The ground reality is that the Govt have to find additional funds to the tune of Rs 2700 crores to pay the arrears of OROP and another Rs 600 crores annual recurring revenue expenditure for introduction of OROP.
6)Rather than the technicalities of the issue, the main issue before this Committee is the generation /availability of huge funds required for implementation of OROP . Can we help them in this regard , so that they can help us .The question is how do we find the money?
7)YES ,there is a simple way - TWO BIRDS AT ONE SHOT. Ensure that the proposal ( Liberalized ECHS ) submitted 3 years back by a Techno management Consultant R Admiral G Kuruvilla ( Retd) is implemented. Understand that the proposal is still haunting the ECHS authorities, never mind, if the Liberalized ECHS is implemented, the savings made in Capital expenditure itself is more than that is required for the payment of arrears of OROP and the additional funds required yearly for payment due to OROP is less than the savings Liberalized ECHS can make in revenue expenditure every year. Let us use the words which can be more appealing to the Financial Wizards, yes we are proposing a MATCHING SAVING for the implementation of OROP .
8)I have a request to make to ALL the ESM organizations and elder ESM brothers in the Country , please spare 10 minutes to understand that the Liberalized ECHS proposal gives lot of additional privileges to the Urbanites . (by making the system more user friendly and access friendly) Only Negative point is that those in Rural areas will also be able to enjoy the same privilege which was earlier monopolized by Urbanites. Is it not a shame that all ESM Organizations ( including the few where I am heading ) which are City based never did anything worthwhile for the prime requirement of about 85% of our unlucky brothers settled in Rural areas (out of which 95 % of them are PBOR category) . PBOR Organizations are of the opinion that most of the ESM Organizations are officer dominated and that is the main reason for the inaction by most of these Organizations in looking after the TOP most requirement of Rural Veterans.
9)Think what is the best line of action as an Organization in this regard .I am sure A CONGRESS MAN like Maj Rao can play a key role in this regard.I am always available for providing any clarification to any one in this regard. I wish I had been stationed in Delhi !. We must try hard in this direction and I am sure WE can and WE could achieve what we want.
LET US NOT MISS THIS LAST CHANCE IN OUR LIFE TIME .
Warm regards
07 Jun 09 Rear Admiral G Kuruvilla VSM (Retd)
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One Heck of a Commercial by Lt Gen Oberoi
From: James Kanagaraj jkraj46@gmail.com
Subject: Re: FW: ONE HECK OF A COMMERCIAL ~ Let's keep it circling around the globe!
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 6:29 PM
Dear Brig Kamboj,
Thanks. I have placed the video (sent by Gen Vijay Oberoi) in the blog and the link is ...
http://reportmysignal.blogspot.com/2009/06/us-troops-respected-best-commercial.html
With regards,
James
Subject: Re: FW: ONE HECK OF A COMMERCIAL ~ Let's keep it circling around the globe!
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 6:29 PM
Dear Brig Kamboj,
Thanks. I have placed the video (sent by Gen Vijay Oberoi) in the blog and the link is ...
http://reportmysignal.blogspot.com/2009/06/us-troops-respected-best-commercial.html
With regards,
James
Views by Lt Gen SK Bahri
From: Satish Kumar Bahri skbahri1@yahoo.com
Subject: Re: [MilitaryVeterans] Fwd: [SappersJune1963] RE: "REPORT MY SIGNAL" - IESM SITREP FOR 04 JUN 09 - EMAIL 447/2009 - 05 JUN 09 - (R to S)
To:DELETED
Cc: "REPORT MY SIGNAL (CS Kamboj)" kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 5:09 PM
Gentlemen,
Lets not claim credit ahead of each other and try to score brownie points. Fact is that the agitation of exservicemen, be they under any flag, has forced the govt to declare that they will do justice to them. Its time we stopped bickering amongst ourselves and let our adversaries take advantage of us. I agree with RKRN that we should address the Cabinet Secy and the PM to ensure that the ESM point of view is made known to them. I would request all the heads of all the ESM orgs to meet and chalk out a plan of action and prepare a paper on the compelling reasons for OROP. Lets forget our differences and unite to solve this problem.
Satish
Lt Gen SK Bahri (Retd)
E 403 Som Vihar Apts,
Subject: Re: [MilitaryVeterans] Fwd: [SappersJune1963] RE: "REPORT MY SIGNAL" - IESM SITREP FOR 04 JUN 09 - EMAIL 447/2009 - 05 JUN 09 - (R to S)
To:DELETED
Cc: "REPORT MY SIGNAL (CS Kamboj)" kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Date: Sunday, 7 June, 2009, 5:09 PM
Gentlemen,
Lets not claim credit ahead of each other and try to score brownie points. Fact is that the agitation of exservicemen, be they under any flag, has forced the govt to declare that they will do justice to them. Its time we stopped bickering amongst ourselves and let our adversaries take advantage of us. I agree with RKRN that we should address the Cabinet Secy and the PM to ensure that the ESM point of view is made known to them. I would request all the heads of all the ESM orgs to meet and chalk out a plan of action and prepare a paper on the compelling reasons for OROP. Lets forget our differences and unite to solve this problem.
Satish
Lt Gen SK Bahri (Retd)
E 403 Som Vihar Apts,
Dear Veterans...Do You know it?
Dear Veterans- Do you know it?
The first two Central Pay Commissions (First -May 1946 and Second- Aug. 1957) did not consider the pay scales, allowances and other service conditions of Defence Forces personnel. At that time, the structure of emoluments of the Defence Forces personnel was looked into by the Departmental Committees which included the representatives of the three services.
1. Post-war Pay Committee (1949):
After the First Pay Commission, a Post -War Pay Committee was constituted for the Defence Forces personnel. The Committee simplified the pay structure of the Defence Forces personnel considerably and abolished a number of allowances which had either relevance only to war conditions or which could be merged with the pay. The Committee established a broad relativity of officers of Defence Forces with the officers of Class-I Central Services and the Indian Police Service (IPS). In Personnel Below Officer Ranks (PBORs), the fully trained infantry solider with 3 years service was equated with a semi-skilled worker. Pension related issues of the Defence Forces were considered by the Defence Forces Pension Revision Committee constituted in 1949 which gave its report in 1950.
2. Raghuramaiya Committee (1960):
Subsequent to the report of the Second Pay Commission, the consequential changes for Defence Forces Personnel were effected as per the recommendations made by the Raghuramaiah Committee that gave its report in 1960. The Committee did not modify any of the principles followed by the Post War Pay Committee. The Raghuramaiya Committee specifically mentioned that the accepted parallel between defence service officers and Class-I services of the Central Government, particularly the Indian Police Service should be continued.
3. Third Pay Commission (April 1970 – March, 1973):
The Third Pay Commission was the first Commission whose terms of reference included examination of the structure of emoluments, the retirement benefits and terms and conditions of the Defence Forces personnel. The Commission noted that the relativity of the officers in Defence Forces vis-à-vis IPS was only a working method of devising scales of pay for the service officers which did not mean that the functional role of the two services were similar. The Commission, specifically, noted that the pay structure of the Indian Administrative Service with its long pay scales was particularly unsuitable for service officers.
4. Fourth Central Pay Commission (June 1983 - Dec. 1986):
The Fourth Pay Commission recommended an integrated pay scale of Rs. 2300-100-5100 for all officers up to the rank of Brigadier & equivalent in three services and Major Generals was placed in the pay scale of Rs. 5900-6700.
It was, in fact, Fourth Central Pay Commission which gave a regular increase in pension to the old pensioners (Veterans). Minimum Pension of Rs. 375/- (Sepoy) and Maximum Pension of Rs. 4500/- (Gen.) was fixed for the old Pensioners.
Fourth Central Pay Commission met a number of Pensioner's organizations in various parts of the country other than its New Delhi office In North Zone, the Pay Commission held a meeting with the ex-servicemen at Sub. Area Hq. at Ambala Cantt. on 6-12-1984 Meeting was arranged by Brig. Irwin David. Mr. Justice Shyngl was the Chairman of the Fourth Central Pay Commission.
A deputation of ex-servicemen headed by late Lt. Gen. Gurbachan Singh 'Buch' (Retd.) which included Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal (Retd.), the present President of Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh (IESL P&C) Lt. Col. Mohinder Singh Sandhu (Retd.), the present Senior Vice President of (IESL P&C), late Hony. Capt. B.R. Soin (Retd.) and late Hony. Capt. Haqiqat Singh (Retd.), all from Patiala , met the Pay Commission for discussion of demands of ex-servicemen included in the memorandum submitted, earlier, by the Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh to the Pay Commission.
Sgt. Prabhjot Singh discussed the pension case of Reservist Dalip Singh of Vill. Khanian in Tehsil. Nabha, Distt. Patiala who has been drawing Rs. 3/- P.M. as pension since 1939. The case, which was earlier highlighted in various news papers which attracted the attention of Govt. of India for a suitable disposal and hectic correspondence was made between the Govt. and the Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh. The correspondence about the said case was presented to the Pay Commission which took no time to make recommendation to grant a regular increase in pension for old pensioners (Veterans) who were so far being given, some or other types of ad-hoc increases to which re-employed ex-servicemen were not entitled. Commission immediately declared that here after minimum pension will be paid to re-employed ex-servicemen. Thus, there was a regular increase in pension for the veterans as a result of sustained efforts made by Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh.
5. Fifth Central Pay Commission (April, 1994 – January, 1997):
The Fifth Central Pay Commission recommended the abolition of Rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Commission also recommended abolition of integrated pay scales. For old pensioners (Veterans), Fifth Central Pay Commission recommended Rs. 1275/- P.M. as minimum pension and Rs. 15000/- P.M. as maximum pension.
6. Sixth Central Pay Commission (Oct, 2006 – March, 2008):
What the Sixth Central Pay Commission has granted to the Soldiers and the Veterans, is known to all of you and needs no description here. It has given a minimum pension of Rs. 3500/-P.M. (which covers PBORs up to rank of Hav.) and maximum pension of Rs. 45000/-P.M. (General)
Mark the difference between the minimum and the maximum pension among the Soldiers. This difference will, certainly, increase to the range of Rs. 1,30,000/- P.M. if no remedial steps are taken by the concerned quarters at the earliest.
( L.Tel. S.C. Sharma CTO Retd.)
General Secretary.
Indian Ex-Service League, Punjab & Chandigarh.
The first two Central Pay Commissions (First -May 1946 and Second- Aug. 1957) did not consider the pay scales, allowances and other service conditions of Defence Forces personnel. At that time, the structure of emoluments of the Defence Forces personnel was looked into by the Departmental Committees which included the representatives of the three services.
1. Post-war Pay Committee (1949):
After the First Pay Commission, a Post -War Pay Committee was constituted for the Defence Forces personnel. The Committee simplified the pay structure of the Defence Forces personnel considerably and abolished a number of allowances which had either relevance only to war conditions or which could be merged with the pay. The Committee established a broad relativity of officers of Defence Forces with the officers of Class-I Central Services and the Indian Police Service (IPS). In Personnel Below Officer Ranks (PBORs), the fully trained infantry solider with 3 years service was equated with a semi-skilled worker. Pension related issues of the Defence Forces were considered by the Defence Forces Pension Revision Committee constituted in 1949 which gave its report in 1950.
2. Raghuramaiya Committee (1960):
Subsequent to the report of the Second Pay Commission, the consequential changes for Defence Forces Personnel were effected as per the recommendations made by the Raghuramaiah Committee that gave its report in 1960. The Committee did not modify any of the principles followed by the Post War Pay Committee. The Raghuramaiya Committee specifically mentioned that the accepted parallel between defence service officers and Class-I services of the Central Government, particularly the Indian Police Service should be continued.
3. Third Pay Commission (April 1970 – March, 1973):
The Third Pay Commission was the first Commission whose terms of reference included examination of the structure of emoluments, the retirement benefits and terms and conditions of the Defence Forces personnel. The Commission noted that the relativity of the officers in Defence Forces vis-à-vis IPS was only a working method of devising scales of pay for the service officers which did not mean that the functional role of the two services were similar. The Commission, specifically, noted that the pay structure of the Indian Administrative Service with its long pay scales was particularly unsuitable for service officers.
4. Fourth Central Pay Commission (June 1983 - Dec. 1986):
The Fourth Pay Commission recommended an integrated pay scale of Rs. 2300-100-5100 for all officers up to the rank of Brigadier & equivalent in three services and Major Generals was placed in the pay scale of Rs. 5900-6700.
It was, in fact, Fourth Central Pay Commission which gave a regular increase in pension to the old pensioners (Veterans). Minimum Pension of Rs. 375/- (Sepoy) and Maximum Pension of Rs. 4500/- (Gen.) was fixed for the old Pensioners.
Fourth Central Pay Commission met a number of Pensioner's organizations in various parts of the country other than its New Delhi office In North Zone, the Pay Commission held a meeting with the ex-servicemen at Sub. Area Hq. at Ambala Cantt. on 6-12-1984 Meeting was arranged by Brig. Irwin David. Mr. Justice Shyngl was the Chairman of the Fourth Central Pay Commission.
A deputation of ex-servicemen headed by late Lt. Gen. Gurbachan Singh 'Buch' (Retd.) which included Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal (Retd.), the present President of Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh (IESL P&C) Lt. Col. Mohinder Singh Sandhu (Retd.), the present Senior Vice President of (IESL P&C), late Hony. Capt. B.R. Soin (Retd.) and late Hony. Capt. Haqiqat Singh (Retd.), all from Patiala , met the Pay Commission for discussion of demands of ex-servicemen included in the memorandum submitted, earlier, by the Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh to the Pay Commission.
Sgt. Prabhjot Singh discussed the pension case of Reservist Dalip Singh of Vill. Khanian in Tehsil. Nabha, Distt. Patiala who has been drawing Rs. 3/- P.M. as pension since 1939. The case, which was earlier highlighted in various news papers which attracted the attention of Govt. of India for a suitable disposal and hectic correspondence was made between the Govt. and the Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh. The correspondence about the said case was presented to the Pay Commission which took no time to make recommendation to grant a regular increase in pension for old pensioners (Veterans) who were so far being given, some or other types of ad-hoc increases to which re-employed ex-servicemen were not entitled. Commission immediately declared that here after minimum pension will be paid to re-employed ex-servicemen. Thus, there was a regular increase in pension for the veterans as a result of sustained efforts made by Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh.
5. Fifth Central Pay Commission (April, 1994 – January, 1997):
The Fifth Central Pay Commission recommended the abolition of Rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Commission also recommended abolition of integrated pay scales. For old pensioners (Veterans), Fifth Central Pay Commission recommended Rs. 1275/- P.M. as minimum pension and Rs. 15000/- P.M. as maximum pension.
6. Sixth Central Pay Commission (Oct, 2006 – March, 2008):
What the Sixth Central Pay Commission has granted to the Soldiers and the Veterans, is known to all of you and needs no description here. It has given a minimum pension of Rs. 3500/-P.M. (which covers PBORs up to rank of Hav.) and maximum pension of Rs. 45000/-P.M. (General)
Mark the difference between the minimum and the maximum pension among the Soldiers. This difference will, certainly, increase to the range of Rs. 1,30,000/- P.M. if no remedial steps are taken by the concerned quarters at the earliest.
( L.Tel. S.C. Sharma CTO Retd.)
General Secretary.
Indian Ex-Service League, Punjab & Chandigarh.
Kargil diwas views by Col CJS Khera
Dear All,
1. A very noble idea of Lt Gen Raj Kadyan , PVSM,AVSM,VSM, to cash on and pay our tributes to the Kargil Martyrs, who sacrificed their life and recovered occupied territory with daring frontal attacks, knowing fully well it was suicidal but for the sake of mother land and high traditions of Indian Army they did this also, just because some one higher up was sleeping, and even then they made others scape goats for not informing them in time.
2. These are the very politicians and Big Babus ( Bureaucrats) who made Bee line to Pay Homage with each Coffin which came down in public to count the number of coffins utilised and calculate the profit they made out of it. Huge collections were made for Kargil martyrs Kins from the Public but they took the Major Share and only few Lakhs handed over to the families of heroes. Perhaps it was the time for elections and BJP. The case of OROP was existing then also , now claiming their right. "Better Late then Never"
3. Politicians only recognise Defence persons during National calamity or when in need of votes they can go to any extend but today they are not giving the legitimate dues to Ex-Servicemen but get themselves entitled for pension on being elected at the cost of Public Money and enjoy all the perks and privileges on cost of Tax payers which again are the defence personnel who pay to the maximum. Let the BJP take on income Tax free salary to the defence personnel's
4. Let all of us get together and convey message to these unreliable politicians that we care for our brethren who have made supreme sacrifice during Kargil. Let the heads of of the Ex-Servicemen come together and plan the event in Big way so that message goes down in the Parliament Corridor too. We should call the elected MP from the areas and convey the message in the similar way as they understand.
Regards
Col CJS Khera
1. A very noble idea of Lt Gen Raj Kadyan , PVSM,AVSM,VSM, to cash on and pay our tributes to the Kargil Martyrs, who sacrificed their life and recovered occupied territory with daring frontal attacks, knowing fully well it was suicidal but for the sake of mother land and high traditions of Indian Army they did this also, just because some one higher up was sleeping, and even then they made others scape goats for not informing them in time.
2. These are the very politicians and Big Babus ( Bureaucrats) who made Bee line to Pay Homage with each Coffin which came down in public to count the number of coffins utilised and calculate the profit they made out of it. Huge collections were made for Kargil martyrs Kins from the Public but they took the Major Share and only few Lakhs handed over to the families of heroes. Perhaps it was the time for elections and BJP. The case of OROP was existing then also , now claiming their right. "Better Late then Never"
3. Politicians only recognise Defence persons during National calamity or when in need of votes they can go to any extend but today they are not giving the legitimate dues to Ex-Servicemen but get themselves entitled for pension on being elected at the cost of Public Money and enjoy all the perks and privileges on cost of Tax payers which again are the defence personnel who pay to the maximum. Let the BJP take on income Tax free salary to the defence personnel's
4. Let all of us get together and convey message to these unreliable politicians that we care for our brethren who have made supreme sacrifice during Kargil. Let the heads of of the Ex-Servicemen come together and plan the event in Big way so that message goes down in the Parliament Corridor too. We should call the elected MP from the areas and convey the message in the similar way as they understand.
Regards
Col CJS Khera
Visible Bank Deposit of IESL is around Rs 1.74 crores
Visible Bank Deposit of IESL is around Rs 1.74 crores
MINUTES OF 139TH GOVERNING COUNCIL MEETING OF IESL HELD AT 1100 HOURS ON 27 MAR 2009 (FRIDAY) AT THE LEAGUE OFFICE, NEW DELHI
Comment: The governing body of ESM organisations need to be very vigilant/ careful against accumulating vast cash deposits in banks as they are betraying the trust reposed by lakhs of Ex- Servicemen who have chosen to join as ordinary members with the aim of fighting for Justice and Welfare. The government/ politicians and bureaucrats are very crafty in silencing the Jawan's Voice through pliable Governing Bodies who cleverly steer the Members off the main course to fulfil their own selfish ego and agenda.
MINUTES OF 139TH GOVERNING COUNCIL MEETING OF IESL HELD AT 1100 HOURS ON 27 MAR 2009 (FRIDAY) AT THE LEAGUE OFFICE, NEW DELHI
Comment: The governing body of ESM organisations need to be very vigilant/ careful against accumulating vast cash deposits in banks as they are betraying the trust reposed by lakhs of Ex- Servicemen who have chosen to join as ordinary members with the aim of fighting for Justice and Welfare. The government/ politicians and bureaucrats are very crafty in silencing the Jawan's Voice through pliable Governing Bodies who cleverly steer the Members off the main course to fulfil their own selfish ego and agenda.
Views of Cdr R pathak fronm Pune on IESL getting 21 lacs from Cm , Haryana
From: Ravindra Pathak
Date: Sat, Jun 6, 2009 at 6:38 AM
Dear Sir,
Here is a case of blatant politicaliasation of an ESM organisation. Where are those who made so much noise about the advisory issued by IESM in favour of BJP, which was nowhere close to this falling to political masters for mere 21 Lakhs?
Cdr R W Pathak (Retd)
Haryana goes to assembly polls in Oct?
Date: Wednesday, 3 June, 2009, 1:12 PM
Dear Veterans,
Sh Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Hon’ble Chief Minister Haryana paid a visit to HQ IESL on 30th May 09. The Chief Guest was received by Brig RKS Gulia, President IESL and led to conference hall. The audience amongst others included League Presidents from Panjab, Delhi, UP, Rajasthan and various distts of Haryana. The President IESL during his welcome address gave a brief account of organization, aims & objectives and achievements of the league during last three years .
The Hon’ble Chief Minister in his address spoke about his Military background, education in Sainik School and deep concern for well being of Defence personnel. In continuation of numerous welfare measures announced during last four years of his rule in the state, he made a generous donation of Rs 21 Lacs to IESL. He further assured that he would continue working towards betterment of ESM and their dependants in future. Amongst others who spoke on the occasion included Capt Parveen Dawar of DPCC and Ch Balbir Singh.
Regards
PRO IESL
Visible Bank Deposit of IESL is around Rs 1.74 crores
Date: Sat, Jun 6, 2009 at 6:38 AM
Dear Sir,
Here is a case of blatant politicaliasation of an ESM organisation. Where are those who made so much noise about the advisory issued by IESM in favour of BJP, which was nowhere close to this falling to political masters for mere 21 Lakhs?
Cdr R W Pathak (Retd)
Haryana goes to assembly polls in Oct?
Date: Wednesday, 3 June, 2009, 1:12 PM
Dear Veterans,
Sh Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Hon’ble Chief Minister Haryana paid a visit to HQ IESL on 30th May 09. The Chief Guest was received by Brig RKS Gulia, President IESL and led to conference hall. The audience amongst others included League Presidents from Panjab, Delhi, UP, Rajasthan and various distts of Haryana. The President IESL during his welcome address gave a brief account of organization, aims & objectives and achievements of the league during last three years .
The Hon’ble Chief Minister in his address spoke about his Military background, education in Sainik School and deep concern for well being of Defence personnel. In continuation of numerous welfare measures announced during last four years of his rule in the state, he made a generous donation of Rs 21 Lacs to IESL. He further assured that he would continue working towards betterment of ESM and their dependants in future. Amongst others who spoke on the occasion included Capt Parveen Dawar of DPCC and Ch Balbir Singh.
Regards
PRO IESL
Visible Bank Deposit of IESL is around Rs 1.74 crores
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Views on OROP paper by Air Cmde Pannu
Readers Responses to OROP
Dear Maj General Radha Krishnan,
I endorse your views. However, I wish to add the following :-
1. The hurry may not be due to any pre-planned trap; it is a compulsion for the Govt to act fast because of the recent verdict of the Supreme Court in Maj Gens Case, which gives it the time till end of July. It is a landmark judgement endorsing OROP or APIP. Wonder if the Govt has involved service HQ/veterans to properly guide and work out a suitable formula.
2. Whatever formula/ method the Govt works out to implement 1 above will find/ force its applicability to all other ranks. This perhaps is the logic for hurry to kill two birds with one stone.
3. Your paper is in the right direction of APIP; it will, however, not be palatable to the bureaucracy, which will go all out to oppose it tooth and nail to force the Govt to reject it. Notwithstanding, it will be a readily available prescription and will set in motion a thinking process, which may see reason. Non-acceptance will help us to use the handle that the Govt is not keen to take proper care of the veterans.
4. Since the Cabinet Secy's committee may already be looking for a solution (may be half-way in the process), the Paper's availability with the RM at an early date may be of great help; accordingly, you may consider sending it sooner. Its late arrival on the scene may not serve the required purpose for the simple reason that it is never easy to reverse a decision already arrived at.
Regards,
Air Commodore Pannu (Retd)
From: Rakesh Prasad Chaturvedi
Sent: Saturday, June 06, 2009 7:02 AM
Subject: Your Paper on OROP
Dear General (Maj Gen RN Radhakrishnan),
I am writing to compliment you on the extremely well written and strongly argued paper on OROP. Thanks Sir. I have also seen your mail on your intent to forward it 'in your personal capacity' to the RM. My personal perception identically is that this needs to be done ASAP. With the 'committee' scheduled to present their findings by end month (read 20 or thereabouts), I feel this needs to be done by 15th. It is therefore incumbent on us to quickly put our act together institutionally, and have this out be next weekend/ mid week. I recommend this knowledge MUST be shared with not only the GOI (MOD) but also Rahul, Advani, Left and some other sympathetic leaders. The more we disseminate our thinking, the better. Well, media intervention may not be a bad idea. In any case you have indicated you are putting it on net for everyone to see. So, if all are not on board to reach a consensus, let the bus depart on time rather than wait for all seats to get full.
Thanks again Sir.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi (Retd)
Posted by SIGNAL on Sunday, June 07, 2009 Links to this post
Dear Maj General Radha Krishnan,
I endorse your views. However, I wish to add the following :-
1. The hurry may not be due to any pre-planned trap; it is a compulsion for the Govt to act fast because of the recent verdict of the Supreme Court in Maj Gens Case, which gives it the time till end of July. It is a landmark judgement endorsing OROP or APIP. Wonder if the Govt has involved service HQ/veterans to properly guide and work out a suitable formula.
2. Whatever formula/ method the Govt works out to implement 1 above will find/ force its applicability to all other ranks. This perhaps is the logic for hurry to kill two birds with one stone.
3. Your paper is in the right direction of APIP; it will, however, not be palatable to the bureaucracy, which will go all out to oppose it tooth and nail to force the Govt to reject it. Notwithstanding, it will be a readily available prescription and will set in motion a thinking process, which may see reason. Non-acceptance will help us to use the handle that the Govt is not keen to take proper care of the veterans.
4. Since the Cabinet Secy's committee may already be looking for a solution (may be half-way in the process), the Paper's availability with the RM at an early date may be of great help; accordingly, you may consider sending it sooner. Its late arrival on the scene may not serve the required purpose for the simple reason that it is never easy to reverse a decision already arrived at.
Regards,
Air Commodore Pannu (Retd)
From: Rakesh Prasad Chaturvedi
Sent: Saturday, June 06, 2009 7:02 AM
Subject: Your Paper on OROP
Dear General (Maj Gen RN Radhakrishnan),
I am writing to compliment you on the extremely well written and strongly argued paper on OROP. Thanks Sir. I have also seen your mail on your intent to forward it 'in your personal capacity' to the RM. My personal perception identically is that this needs to be done ASAP. With the 'committee' scheduled to present their findings by end month (read 20 or thereabouts), I feel this needs to be done by 15th. It is therefore incumbent on us to quickly put our act together institutionally, and have this out be next weekend/ mid week. I recommend this knowledge MUST be shared with not only the GOI (MOD) but also Rahul, Advani, Left and some other sympathetic leaders. The more we disseminate our thinking, the better. Well, media intervention may not be a bad idea. In any case you have indicated you are putting it on net for everyone to see. So, if all are not on board to reach a consensus, let the bus depart on time rather than wait for all seats to get full.
Thanks again Sir.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi (Retd)
Posted by SIGNAL on Sunday, June 07, 2009 Links to this post
APIP: letter addressed to RM by Maj Gen RN Radhakrishnan
APIP: letter addressed to RM
Major General RN RADHAKRISHNAN (Retd)
“AMCHINARANGAM”,
193, Vira Ma Munivar St,
Bastin Ngr, Madurai-625016.
RNRK/ESW/11/20090608(1) 2009-06-08
Dear Sri Antony Ji,
At the outset, may I request you to accept my warm felicitation on the electoral success and the consequent regaining the portfolio of the Defence. We, the community of Veteran Servicemen, by and large, are thrilled with these developments; more so, because of the prompt and specific promise in the presidential address regarding the issue of ‘OROP’.
Being aware of the magnitude of your responsibilities, I feel inhibited to write to you. But as vast majority of the existing 2 millions of the Ex-Servicemen pensioners have felt that their demands have not been addressed with objectivity by the Government in the past, I have overcome my inhibition and now seek your intervention.
I feel extremely confident that the Cabinet Secretary will address the matter of OROP expeditiously and objectively. Being apprehensive of our problems, I wanted to put forward a comprehensive analysis of the issue to help the Secretary more as a review.
I seek your intervention as your word shall carry the desired persuasion. May I, therefore, request you, Sir, to browse over the enclosed paper and pass it on to the Cabinet Secretary through your Ministry, with some encouraging words!
With regards and best wishes,
Yours Sincerely
Sd: RN Radhakrishnan
Major General RN RADHAKRISHNAN (Retd)
“AMCHINARANGAM”,
193, Vira Ma Munivar St,
Bastin Ngr, Madurai-625016.
RNRK/ESW/11/20090608(1) 2009-06-08
Dear Sri Antony Ji,
At the outset, may I request you to accept my warm felicitation on the electoral success and the consequent regaining the portfolio of the Defence. We, the community of Veteran Servicemen, by and large, are thrilled with these developments; more so, because of the prompt and specific promise in the presidential address regarding the issue of ‘OROP’.
Being aware of the magnitude of your responsibilities, I feel inhibited to write to you. But as vast majority of the existing 2 millions of the Ex-Servicemen pensioners have felt that their demands have not been addressed with objectivity by the Government in the past, I have overcome my inhibition and now seek your intervention.
I feel extremely confident that the Cabinet Secretary will address the matter of OROP expeditiously and objectively. Being apprehensive of our problems, I wanted to put forward a comprehensive analysis of the issue to help the Secretary more as a review.
I seek your intervention as your word shall carry the desired persuasion. May I, therefore, request you, Sir, to browse over the enclosed paper and pass it on to the Cabinet Secretary through your Ministry, with some encouraging words!
With regards and best wishes,
Yours Sincerely
Sd: RN Radhakrishnan
Parity in Pension by Maj Navdeep Singh
www.indianmilitary.info
Saturday, June 6, 2009
(1) It‘s going to be ‘Parity in Pension’ in lieu of OROP, and (2) ‘Salute’ salutes the Sappers
There are indications in place that the govt is soon going to announce the much needed respite to pre-2006 pensioners by announcing a system incorporating ‘parity in pensions’. While this may not be at par with OROP, still it would definitely bridge the gap between pre and post 2006 pensioners. In all probability, the new system would be incorporated only for personnel other than Commissioned Officers. Officers may have a formula different than PBOR. The exact modalities would be available for all to see once the recommendations are presented to the govt by the committee(s) set up for the purpose, which incidentally would be weeks and not months.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
(1) It‘s going to be ‘Parity in Pension’ in lieu of OROP, and (2) ‘Salute’ salutes the Sappers
There are indications in place that the govt is soon going to announce the much needed respite to pre-2006 pensioners by announcing a system incorporating ‘parity in pensions’. While this may not be at par with OROP, still it would definitely bridge the gap between pre and post 2006 pensioners. In all probability, the new system would be incorporated only for personnel other than Commissioned Officers. Officers may have a formula different than PBOR. The exact modalities would be available for all to see once the recommendations are presented to the govt by the committee(s) set up for the purpose, which incidentally would be weeks and not months.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Pensions Veterans Britain by Wg Cdr CK Sharma
Pensions Veterans Britain
There are two Armed Forces pension schemes for members of the Regular Armed Forces.
a ) The first was introduced in 1975 and was closed to new entrants from 6 April 2005. This is known as AFPS75.
b ) On 6 April 2005, a new scheme was introduced for new entrants, known as the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (AFPS 05). Members of AFPS 75 were given the opportunity to transfer to AFPS 05 on 6 April 2006.
AFPS 75. This scheme is no longer open to new applicants.
Details of Current (2005) Pension Scheme.
' As a member of the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (AFPS 05), you could earn a range of benefits to help provide financial security for you and your dependants up to retirement age and beyond. You make no direct contributions towards your basic benefits under AFPS 05, although your pension benefits are taken into account when your pay is assessed. If you wish to, you may be able to increase your pension benefits, by buying added years.
Your pension will start to build up from your first day of paid service, and after 35 years' service you could achieve a pension worth 50% of pensionable pay. Longer service up to a maximum of 40 years will count towards your pension.
The Armed Forces Pension Scheme covers many different circumstances, from normal retirement to retirement on medical grounds, and to pensions for widows, widowers and children. All the rates are usually revised annually on 1 April. Some of the main features are:
Immediate pensions. Officers may get a pension as soon as they leave the Army once they have completed 16 years' reckonable service ( Minimum Reqd Service ) from the age of 21.
Soldiers may get a pension as soon as they leave the Army once they have completed 22 years' reckonable service from the age of 18. The level of pension in both cases would represent approximately 30% of the salary for the rank of the individual officer or soldier.
A gratuity of three times the annual rate of pension awarded is payable in all cases. If you are eligible to receive an immediate pension, you can also opt to give up a portion of your pension in return for a lump sum - this is known as resettlement commutation. Commutation is, however, a privilege and not a right and you must apply for it before you are 55.
Preserved pensions. If you leave the Army with insufficient service for an immediate pension, you are entitled to a 'preserved pension', provided that you have at least 2 years' service (counting from the age of 21 for officers and 18 for soldiers).
Preserved pensions are payable at the age of 60,or earlier in the event of permanent disablement. Gratuities are also paid at this time, again at the rate of three times the annual pension awarded.
Resettlement grants. In addition to a preserved pension, officers who complete at least 9 years' service from the age of 21 and soldiers who complete at least 12 years' service from age 18,receive a resettlement grant. If you get a pension as soon as you leave the Army, you will not be entitled to a resettlement grant.
Increments to Senior Pensioners,after 55 years of Age. Immediate pensions are not increased at all until you reach the age of 55. Then they are increased to include all pension increases that have been awarded since the pension was first paid. Rates are increased annually thereafter. When preserved pensions are issued at age 60, they are revised to take into account any increases in pension rates since the pension was earned. Rates are increased annually thereafter.
Less Penion on Divorce. Pensions benefits on divorce. Your pension may be affected if you get divorced.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme ( Like Disability Pension )
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme is for Serving personnel and ex-Service personnel whose injuries, wounds and illnesses arose on or after 6 April 2005. More information can be found by following the Veterans-UK link on the right
War Pension scheme ( War Wounded )
The War Pensions Scheme is for ex-Service personnel whose injuries, wounds and illnesses arose prior to 6 April 2005. This scheme also covers War Widows and Widowers Pensions. More information can be found by following the Veterans-UK link on the right.
Pension benefit changes for ex-spouses
As a result of recent change in legislation, former spouses and civil partners now have the option to claim their pension benefits from the age of 55 (If you are interested in having your pension paid at age 55, or immediately if you are already over age 55, you should write to:
Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA)
Pensions Division
Pensions on Divorce Section
Mail Point 480
Kentigern House
65 Brown Street
Glasgow G2 8EX
__________________
Warm Regards!
CK Sharma
There are two Armed Forces pension schemes for members of the Regular Armed Forces.
a ) The first was introduced in 1975 and was closed to new entrants from 6 April 2005. This is known as AFPS75.
b ) On 6 April 2005, a new scheme was introduced for new entrants, known as the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (AFPS 05). Members of AFPS 75 were given the opportunity to transfer to AFPS 05 on 6 April 2006.
AFPS 75. This scheme is no longer open to new applicants.
Details of Current (2005) Pension Scheme.
' As a member of the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (AFPS 05), you could earn a range of benefits to help provide financial security for you and your dependants up to retirement age and beyond. You make no direct contributions towards your basic benefits under AFPS 05, although your pension benefits are taken into account when your pay is assessed. If you wish to, you may be able to increase your pension benefits, by buying added years.
Your pension will start to build up from your first day of paid service, and after 35 years' service you could achieve a pension worth 50% of pensionable pay. Longer service up to a maximum of 40 years will count towards your pension.
The Armed Forces Pension Scheme covers many different circumstances, from normal retirement to retirement on medical grounds, and to pensions for widows, widowers and children. All the rates are usually revised annually on 1 April. Some of the main features are:
Immediate pensions. Officers may get a pension as soon as they leave the Army once they have completed 16 years' reckonable service ( Minimum Reqd Service ) from the age of 21.
Soldiers may get a pension as soon as they leave the Army once they have completed 22 years' reckonable service from the age of 18. The level of pension in both cases would represent approximately 30% of the salary for the rank of the individual officer or soldier.
A gratuity of three times the annual rate of pension awarded is payable in all cases. If you are eligible to receive an immediate pension, you can also opt to give up a portion of your pension in return for a lump sum - this is known as resettlement commutation. Commutation is, however, a privilege and not a right and you must apply for it before you are 55.
Preserved pensions. If you leave the Army with insufficient service for an immediate pension, you are entitled to a 'preserved pension', provided that you have at least 2 years' service (counting from the age of 21 for officers and 18 for soldiers).
Preserved pensions are payable at the age of 60,or earlier in the event of permanent disablement. Gratuities are also paid at this time, again at the rate of three times the annual pension awarded.
Resettlement grants. In addition to a preserved pension, officers who complete at least 9 years' service from the age of 21 and soldiers who complete at least 12 years' service from age 18,receive a resettlement grant. If you get a pension as soon as you leave the Army, you will not be entitled to a resettlement grant.
Increments to Senior Pensioners,after 55 years of Age. Immediate pensions are not increased at all until you reach the age of 55. Then they are increased to include all pension increases that have been awarded since the pension was first paid. Rates are increased annually thereafter. When preserved pensions are issued at age 60, they are revised to take into account any increases in pension rates since the pension was earned. Rates are increased annually thereafter.
Less Penion on Divorce. Pensions benefits on divorce. Your pension may be affected if you get divorced.
Armed Forces Compensation Scheme ( Like Disability Pension )
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme is for Serving personnel and ex-Service personnel whose injuries, wounds and illnesses arose on or after 6 April 2005. More information can be found by following the Veterans-UK link on the right
War Pension scheme ( War Wounded )
The War Pensions Scheme is for ex-Service personnel whose injuries, wounds and illnesses arose prior to 6 April 2005. This scheme also covers War Widows and Widowers Pensions. More information can be found by following the Veterans-UK link on the right.
Pension benefit changes for ex-spouses
As a result of recent change in legislation, former spouses and civil partners now have the option to claim their pension benefits from the age of 55 (If you are interested in having your pension paid at age 55, or immediately if you are already over age 55, you should write to:
Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA)
Pensions Division
Pensions on Divorce Section
Mail Point 480
Kentigern House
65 Brown Street
Glasgow G2 8EX
__________________
Warm Regards!
CK Sharma
NORTHERN DISTRICTS OF TAMIL NADU IESL MEET AT THANJAVUR 19 Jul 2009
NORTHERN DISTRICTS OF TAMIL NADU IESL MEET AT THANJAVUR
19 JULY 09
Dear Veterans,
We had planned to hold the Northern Dist IESL Meet of Veterans at Thanjavur
on 26 Apr 09 but we could not go through the meet due to certain restriction imposed
by ECI on large gatherings in Thanjavur because of impending LS election during
May 09.Since then the election are over,we intend to keep up with our earlier commitment and reschedule the meet on 19 July 09.This time we will abide
by some reservations expressed by local veterans of holding a rally from Thanjavur RS
to the venue spot.We will now confine our selves to meeting other Dist Veterans and solicit discussion on OROP and agenda points in our earlier letter dated 09 Apr 09.
(ibid letter enclosed).The Tamil Version of the invitation for the meet on 19 July 09 is
also enclosed.
Regards,
Col Ranga Raj Jairam.
Co-ordinator,IESM,Thanjavur.
25 NDA,India Sqn.
19 JULY 09
Dear Veterans,
We had planned to hold the Northern Dist IESL Meet of Veterans at Thanjavur
on 26 Apr 09 but we could not go through the meet due to certain restriction imposed
by ECI on large gatherings in Thanjavur because of impending LS election during
May 09.Since then the election are over,we intend to keep up with our earlier commitment and reschedule the meet on 19 July 09.This time we will abide
by some reservations expressed by local veterans of holding a rally from Thanjavur RS
to the venue spot.We will now confine our selves to meeting other Dist Veterans and solicit discussion on OROP and agenda points in our earlier letter dated 09 Apr 09.
(ibid letter enclosed).The Tamil Version of the invitation for the meet on 19 July 09 is
also enclosed.
Regards,
Col Ranga Raj Jairam.
Co-ordinator,IESM,Thanjavur.
25 NDA,India Sqn.
Views by Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi
From: VIJAY OBEROI
Subject:
To:
Date: Thursday, 4 June, 2009, 4:51 PM
My article Elections and the Indian Military: A perspective has been published on merinews.com .
A transcript is as under:
THE RESULTS of the 15th General Elections, announced on May 17, 2005, have already had major influences on a number of entities, from political parties to the stock exchange, the media and the very large number of military veteran organisations that abound in our country. This piece will confine itself to the military veterans.
For starters, it is obvious that in the election jungle, the military veterans are novices. Elections in India require money - lots of it, including masses of the ‘black’ variety; a well-oiled organisation; loyal workers who are either ideologically motivated or kept on the pay-roll for long periods; a ‘vote bank’ well nurtured and kept ‘satisfied’ over a long period; ‘gumption’ and ability to work in the hurly-burly environment, where gentleness has no place and street-smartness is the order of the day. Can you imagine a military veteran being weighed against ‘ladoos’ or some such culinary delight and smiling through the ordeal for the benefit of the media! During this election, the few who were brave enough to stand for the elections fared miserably, as was expected. I think all must have lost their deposits. Two I know – Lt Gen BKN Chibber (Amritsar) and Colonel Suri (Chandigarh) surely did.
The veterans political party, a minnow really, the Rashtriya Raksha Dal (RRD) did field a few candidates, but they were also nowhere, although a very senior and highly respected veteran, Col MS Krishnamoorthy , had put his heart and soul in bringing up this party in the last six to eight months. However, political parties need a great deal of time, dedication, large number of volunteers and of course funds to come up to a stage where they can give the established parties a run for their money. The veterans should be thinking of a timeframe of 20 to 25 years and not just a few months, as was the case this time.
Over a period of time, the military veterans created a myth and started believing that if they decided to participate in the political process, they will have a ready-made vote bank of nearly 25 lakh veterans, 13 lakh of active duty military personnel and nearly four times these numbers comprising the families and dependents, making it a tidy one and a half crore. It was conveniently forgotten that all these numbers are spread throughout the length and breadth of the country, resulting in very few numbers available in different constituencies. In addition, all veterans are already associated with one party or the other or vote in the same fashion as their brethren or kin. Weaning them away would need sustained efforts. As far as the serving persons are concerned, a large number are still not registered as voters, as the service headquarters dilly-dallied in conveying detailed instructions and the civil authorities, in any case can not be hurried!
Till 2008, most retired military officers were fairly blasé about political activity in the country. That is not to say they were ignorant, but their thinking continued to be influenced by their in-service experience of being apolitical. The prevailing political culture of corruption, vote banks, emphasis on castes and classes, exploitation of religion to whip up emotions, distributing largesse selectively and downright nepotism also resulted in the veterans distancing themselves from the entire political process, as an exercise in futility. Consequently, the retired rank and file were left to their own devices and as a natural progression they adopted the culture of their civilian counterparts. A large number did, however, coalesce into small veteran organisations within their own villages or surrounding areas. This had little effect on their ability to take advantage of the political dispensations, as they were not organised strongly.
It was the highly skewed recommendations of the Sixth Pay Commission of March 2008, that proved to be the proverbial straw that broke the camels back and activated the military veterans, especially the veteran officers. The recommendations of the Commission were so unjust and so heavily biased for the civilian bureaucracy that there was no other course left to the military veterans but to vehemently oppose the recommendations by all means. There was a sudden awakening amongst veteran officers, which soon percolated down to the rank and file. The credit for this must go to a newly formed organisation called the Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM), which galvanised the veterans. Here, it needs to be recorded that the internet became the vehicle for both dissemination of information and for net-working. An existing blog started by the Signal Officers of the Indian Army a few years back, “Report My Signals,” played a sterling role and continues to do so, in bringing together the veterans spread far and wide throughout the country. However, predictably the reaching out to the rank and file had to be based on more conventional means of communications.
At this stage, it may be useful to have a reality check of the existing veteran organisations. All are involved in pursuing the issues affecting the veterans but each has adopted a different methodology. Their primary and other objectives are also different. These are conditioned by the agendas of their organisations, the environment in which they operate, the extent of official patronage, if any, that they get, which is actually pitifully little when compared to what even the run of the mill (and mostly fake) non-government organisations (NGO’s) get.
The oldest veteran organisation is the Indian Ex Services League (IESL), founded by two early and highly respected Chiefs of the army – Field Marshal Carriapa and General Thimayya. This is the only veteran organisation that is recognised (whatever that means!) by the government and gets funds from the Central government. Most, if not all state governments, have not considered it fit ever to assist or nurture any veteran organisation, on the specious plea that they assist the veterans officially through their departments of defence. Without sounding offensive, most activities of these departments are in actuality designed for furthering the cause of the politicians in power!
An offshoot of the IESL is the All India Ex-Services Welfare Association (AIEWA), which had carried out considerable work in the past to get equal pension for the veterans. Then there is the Sainik Sangh, also known as All India Ex Soldier’s League. The Navy and Air Force have Foundations, which have a well laid out agenda, and they seem to work only within this.
The IESM comes next. It is a comparatively recent organisation, which has only one aim – to get One Rank One Pension (OROP) at the earliest.
It is the first veteran’s organization to adopt an agitational approach to meet their objective. They have captured the imagination of a large number of veterans and it continues to increase its membership. It professes to represent all ex-servicemen of the country, a claim disputed by many. They are in the eye of the storm at present because of the manner, in which they pushed their Advisory supporting a particular political party during the elections, disregarding the sensibilities of a large number of their members. Other groups are really local, as their membership and agendas have a predominantly local colour.
The military veterans of the nation are as fractured as the verdict that was expected to be delivered by the electorate according to all pundits. While the polity has proved them wrong, the veteran organisations continue to be fractured. Despite the past failures in efforts to forge unity, it continues to remain the goal of all veteran organisations, as they do understand that without unity they will continue to be marginalised. Let us hope they succeed.
Vijay Oberoi
Former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)
Former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS)
RESIDENCE
Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
'DAULAT'
Subject:
To:
Date: Thursday, 4 June, 2009, 4:51 PM
My article Elections and the Indian Military: A perspective has been published on merinews.com .
A transcript is as under:
THE RESULTS of the 15th General Elections, announced on May 17, 2005, have already had major influences on a number of entities, from political parties to the stock exchange, the media and the very large number of military veteran organisations that abound in our country. This piece will confine itself to the military veterans.
For starters, it is obvious that in the election jungle, the military veterans are novices. Elections in India require money - lots of it, including masses of the ‘black’ variety; a well-oiled organisation; loyal workers who are either ideologically motivated or kept on the pay-roll for long periods; a ‘vote bank’ well nurtured and kept ‘satisfied’ over a long period; ‘gumption’ and ability to work in the hurly-burly environment, where gentleness has no place and street-smartness is the order of the day. Can you imagine a military veteran being weighed against ‘ladoos’ or some such culinary delight and smiling through the ordeal for the benefit of the media! During this election, the few who were brave enough to stand for the elections fared miserably, as was expected. I think all must have lost their deposits. Two I know – Lt Gen BKN Chibber (Amritsar) and Colonel Suri (Chandigarh) surely did.
The veterans political party, a minnow really, the Rashtriya Raksha Dal (RRD) did field a few candidates, but they were also nowhere, although a very senior and highly respected veteran, Col MS Krishnamoorthy , had put his heart and soul in bringing up this party in the last six to eight months. However, political parties need a great deal of time, dedication, large number of volunteers and of course funds to come up to a stage where they can give the established parties a run for their money. The veterans should be thinking of a timeframe of 20 to 25 years and not just a few months, as was the case this time.
Over a period of time, the military veterans created a myth and started believing that if they decided to participate in the political process, they will have a ready-made vote bank of nearly 25 lakh veterans, 13 lakh of active duty military personnel and nearly four times these numbers comprising the families and dependents, making it a tidy one and a half crore. It was conveniently forgotten that all these numbers are spread throughout the length and breadth of the country, resulting in very few numbers available in different constituencies. In addition, all veterans are already associated with one party or the other or vote in the same fashion as their brethren or kin. Weaning them away would need sustained efforts. As far as the serving persons are concerned, a large number are still not registered as voters, as the service headquarters dilly-dallied in conveying detailed instructions and the civil authorities, in any case can not be hurried!
Till 2008, most retired military officers were fairly blasé about political activity in the country. That is not to say they were ignorant, but their thinking continued to be influenced by their in-service experience of being apolitical. The prevailing political culture of corruption, vote banks, emphasis on castes and classes, exploitation of religion to whip up emotions, distributing largesse selectively and downright nepotism also resulted in the veterans distancing themselves from the entire political process, as an exercise in futility. Consequently, the retired rank and file were left to their own devices and as a natural progression they adopted the culture of their civilian counterparts. A large number did, however, coalesce into small veteran organisations within their own villages or surrounding areas. This had little effect on their ability to take advantage of the political dispensations, as they were not organised strongly.
It was the highly skewed recommendations of the Sixth Pay Commission of March 2008, that proved to be the proverbial straw that broke the camels back and activated the military veterans, especially the veteran officers. The recommendations of the Commission were so unjust and so heavily biased for the civilian bureaucracy that there was no other course left to the military veterans but to vehemently oppose the recommendations by all means. There was a sudden awakening amongst veteran officers, which soon percolated down to the rank and file. The credit for this must go to a newly formed organisation called the Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM), which galvanised the veterans. Here, it needs to be recorded that the internet became the vehicle for both dissemination of information and for net-working. An existing blog started by the Signal Officers of the Indian Army a few years back, “Report My Signals,” played a sterling role and continues to do so, in bringing together the veterans spread far and wide throughout the country. However, predictably the reaching out to the rank and file had to be based on more conventional means of communications.
At this stage, it may be useful to have a reality check of the existing veteran organisations. All are involved in pursuing the issues affecting the veterans but each has adopted a different methodology. Their primary and other objectives are also different. These are conditioned by the agendas of their organisations, the environment in which they operate, the extent of official patronage, if any, that they get, which is actually pitifully little when compared to what even the run of the mill (and mostly fake) non-government organisations (NGO’s) get.
The oldest veteran organisation is the Indian Ex Services League (IESL), founded by two early and highly respected Chiefs of the army – Field Marshal Carriapa and General Thimayya. This is the only veteran organisation that is recognised (whatever that means!) by the government and gets funds from the Central government. Most, if not all state governments, have not considered it fit ever to assist or nurture any veteran organisation, on the specious plea that they assist the veterans officially through their departments of defence. Without sounding offensive, most activities of these departments are in actuality designed for furthering the cause of the politicians in power!
An offshoot of the IESL is the All India Ex-Services Welfare Association (AIEWA), which had carried out considerable work in the past to get equal pension for the veterans. Then there is the Sainik Sangh, also known as All India Ex Soldier’s League. The Navy and Air Force have Foundations, which have a well laid out agenda, and they seem to work only within this.
The IESM comes next. It is a comparatively recent organisation, which has only one aim – to get One Rank One Pension (OROP) at the earliest.
It is the first veteran’s organization to adopt an agitational approach to meet their objective. They have captured the imagination of a large number of veterans and it continues to increase its membership. It professes to represent all ex-servicemen of the country, a claim disputed by many. They are in the eye of the storm at present because of the manner, in which they pushed their Advisory supporting a particular political party during the elections, disregarding the sensibilities of a large number of their members. Other groups are really local, as their membership and agendas have a predominantly local colour.
The military veterans of the nation are as fractured as the verdict that was expected to be delivered by the electorate according to all pundits. While the polity has proved them wrong, the veteran organisations continue to be fractured. Despite the past failures in efforts to forge unity, it continues to remain the goal of all veteran organisations, as they do understand that without unity they will continue to be marginalised. Let us hope they succeed.
Vijay Oberoi
Former Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS)
Former Director Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS)
RESIDENCE
Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
'DAULAT'
ECHS views by Sqd ldr Bankim Sutaria
From: Bankim Sutaria
To: Kamboj Chander ; TRUNCATED.
Sent: Tuesday, June 02, 2009 5:00 PM
Subject: ECHS
Sirs,
I was in a dilemma for a long, whether to express my opinion on ECHS or not? And if decide to express, then in what form? Having shreded uniform 25 years back I would like to express my view without any reservation. Some of this is my personal experiences some realised while working in ESM organization. Let it be a healthy discussion.
I had sent you copies of my correspondence with Gen. Srivatsva. If (fOR cOL. jOSHIPURA)you have a copy with you still ,please circulate it in one of you core group meeting. If not with you I will send you a fresh one.
First I must say it is a very god scheme But very very badly implemented. Good for few but worst for the majority. Majority residing in the area where policlinics are not located. Or even if located in same town, it is at a distance of 30-40 kms. In town where policlinics are located, there the problems of ESM are less. Polyclnics at present are in less than 200 places in the country. Where as there more than 550 districts in the country. For some it is at a distance of 600-700kms. What benefit he can have of this ECHS? Those residing in Delhi and north are not aware of the reality. They have policlinics,MH ann number of empanelled hospitals. Easy access to command HQS, ECHS HQ etc.It is the plight of others where policlinics are not located. I would surely agree that probably strength of ESM is not adequate for establishing policlinic. The problem of ESM of this area can be address very well if those in the chair adopts a human approach and has a consideration for this unfertunate ESM and desire to work and take up the matter with appropriate authority. I have few suggestions.
(1) On joining of ECHS scheme the very first loss to veteran is stoppage of FMA. ESM of far flung area firstly does not get the medical facility within a reasonable distance. On top of it he has to surrender a meager sum of Rs.100/- which he is being paid if not a member of ECHS. This be reviewed. ESM can continue drawing FMA till such time a polyclinic is opened within say a distance of 50kms of his residence. If I, recollect correctly this FMA is out of pocket allowance granted to ESM for their day to day medicines and treatment in MH was permitted. Hence discontinuation of FMA is not correct. Other central Govt servant receive this FMA as well as are covered under CGHS. Then why this injustice to ESM?
(2) A special drive be under taken by all Command HQS to get at least 2-3 hospitals empanelled in each district. For this they should depute 2-3 persons who are well conversant with full feeling the requiremeant of filling up the forms CGHS approved charges etc. They should go to all the places from where a local ESM organization has forwarded name of a hospital for emapanelling. Empanelment of hospitals will give some relief in emergency to ESM residing in area where policlinic is not available.. If possible at each district HQs where sufficient number of ESM are not available vateran officer/hon offr/ Sub maj can be appointed as officer i/c polyclinic and local policlinic with the help of empanelled hospital can be given a thought of.
My experience says that hospitals are not coming forward for empanelling as they are not well conversant with filling of the form/ claim etc. We had proposed one very good hospital for empanelment at Surat about 3 yrs ago. A team from Vadodara/command Hqs also had inspected this hospital. Hospital had filled up the form for empanelment and draft of Rs.2500/- handed over. Till date no progress. Form missing. Report of expert team not traceable. Rs.2500/- credited to regimental fund. Can any one take up the matter with Army Hq/ Southern Command to investigate? The same hospital is still ready but we have not received any help from Stn.Hqs at Vadodara to fill up the form.
Another point. Recently Dir of Med Services of Army Hq has issued a directive and stopped issue of medicine for more than one months at a time. Explanation given is not digestible. Has the gentleman issuing directive aware of the agony individual has to under go if he has to get medicine every month? I know a case where a widow of a PBOR has to start her journey a day in advance to reach in time for receiving medicine. The amount ant time spent on journey and energy spent is much higher then the one months medicine. I do not know why an out station ESM cannot be issued medicine for three month if recommended by the specialist? We in services believe in withdrawing the privileges than to extend.
In emergency, policy says, member of ECHS can get admitted in any hospital and get treated. But within 2 working days must communicate about admission to parent policlinic. It is next to impossible for the officer, to get through policlinic in normal circumstances. How can we expect PBOR or their family to get in touch when in Emergency. For this I feel organization should have TOLL free BSNL/MTNL number on all India basis and ESM can record admission and give his requisite information. Subsequently action as required can be initiated by the policlinic like intimating ECHS member the requirement for claiming reimbursement, forward him form etc to fill up.
I request every one who can to give TOP priority to ECHS as it has not reached more than 50%-60% of ESM
Thanks
Sqn.Ldr. Bankim Sutaria (retd)
SURAT TF 0261 2462478 MO: 094271 07218
To: Kamboj Chander ; TRUNCATED.
Sent: Tuesday, June 02, 2009 5:00 PM
Subject: ECHS
Sirs,
I was in a dilemma for a long, whether to express my opinion on ECHS or not? And if decide to express, then in what form? Having shreded uniform 25 years back I would like to express my view without any reservation. Some of this is my personal experiences some realised while working in ESM organization. Let it be a healthy discussion.
I had sent you copies of my correspondence with Gen. Srivatsva. If (fOR cOL. jOSHIPURA)you have a copy with you still ,please circulate it in one of you core group meeting. If not with you I will send you a fresh one.
First I must say it is a very god scheme But very very badly implemented. Good for few but worst for the majority. Majority residing in the area where policlinics are not located. Or even if located in same town, it is at a distance of 30-40 kms. In town where policlinics are located, there the problems of ESM are less. Polyclnics at present are in less than 200 places in the country. Where as there more than 550 districts in the country. For some it is at a distance of 600-700kms. What benefit he can have of this ECHS? Those residing in Delhi and north are not aware of the reality. They have policlinics,MH ann number of empanelled hospitals. Easy access to command HQS, ECHS HQ etc.It is the plight of others where policlinics are not located. I would surely agree that probably strength of ESM is not adequate for establishing policlinic. The problem of ESM of this area can be address very well if those in the chair adopts a human approach and has a consideration for this unfertunate ESM and desire to work and take up the matter with appropriate authority. I have few suggestions.
(1) On joining of ECHS scheme the very first loss to veteran is stoppage of FMA. ESM of far flung area firstly does not get the medical facility within a reasonable distance. On top of it he has to surrender a meager sum of Rs.100/- which he is being paid if not a member of ECHS. This be reviewed. ESM can continue drawing FMA till such time a polyclinic is opened within say a distance of 50kms of his residence. If I, recollect correctly this FMA is out of pocket allowance granted to ESM for their day to day medicines and treatment in MH was permitted. Hence discontinuation of FMA is not correct. Other central Govt servant receive this FMA as well as are covered under CGHS. Then why this injustice to ESM?
(2) A special drive be under taken by all Command HQS to get at least 2-3 hospitals empanelled in each district. For this they should depute 2-3 persons who are well conversant with full feeling the requiremeant of filling up the forms CGHS approved charges etc. They should go to all the places from where a local ESM organization has forwarded name of a hospital for emapanelling. Empanelment of hospitals will give some relief in emergency to ESM residing in area where policlinic is not available.. If possible at each district HQs where sufficient number of ESM are not available vateran officer/hon offr/ Sub maj can be appointed as officer i/c polyclinic and local policlinic with the help of empanelled hospital can be given a thought of.
My experience says that hospitals are not coming forward for empanelling as they are not well conversant with filling of the form/ claim etc. We had proposed one very good hospital for empanelment at Surat about 3 yrs ago. A team from Vadodara/command Hqs also had inspected this hospital. Hospital had filled up the form for empanelment and draft of Rs.2500/- handed over. Till date no progress. Form missing. Report of expert team not traceable. Rs.2500/- credited to regimental fund. Can any one take up the matter with Army Hq/ Southern Command to investigate? The same hospital is still ready but we have not received any help from Stn.Hqs at Vadodara to fill up the form.
Another point. Recently Dir of Med Services of Army Hq has issued a directive and stopped issue of medicine for more than one months at a time. Explanation given is not digestible. Has the gentleman issuing directive aware of the agony individual has to under go if he has to get medicine every month? I know a case where a widow of a PBOR has to start her journey a day in advance to reach in time for receiving medicine. The amount ant time spent on journey and energy spent is much higher then the one months medicine. I do not know why an out station ESM cannot be issued medicine for three month if recommended by the specialist? We in services believe in withdrawing the privileges than to extend.
In emergency, policy says, member of ECHS can get admitted in any hospital and get treated. But within 2 working days must communicate about admission to parent policlinic. It is next to impossible for the officer, to get through policlinic in normal circumstances. How can we expect PBOR or their family to get in touch when in Emergency. For this I feel organization should have TOLL free BSNL/MTNL number on all India basis and ESM can record admission and give his requisite information. Subsequently action as required can be initiated by the policlinic like intimating ECHS member the requirement for claiming reimbursement, forward him form etc to fill up.
I request every one who can to give TOP priority to ECHS as it has not reached more than 50%-60% of ESM
Thanks
Sqn.Ldr. Bankim Sutaria (retd)
SURAT TF 0261 2462478 MO: 094271 07218
ONE RANK ONE PENSION.. letter to Secy Exservicemen Affairs
Tele Fax – 0175-5000896
Mob. 98554-09128.
Indian Ex-Services League,
(Punjab & Chandigarh.)
IESL/13/2009 Dt. 5 June 2009
To,
Sh. S.M. Acharya,
Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Affairs) & Chairman
High Powered Committee, Ministry of Defence
Sena Bhawan, New Delhi – 11 001.
Dear Sir,
It is, indeed, heartening to note that Govt. of India has declared its intention to review and grant 'One Rank One Pension' to ex-servicemen. The league highly applauds this steps of the Govt. formed under Hon'ble Prime Minister, Sh. Manmohan Singh.
The league takes this opportunity to remind the High Powered Committee under your Chairmanship that PBORs have been done much injustice by unjustified recommendation of the Sixth Central Pay Commission in respect of soldiers and its faulty implementation by the bureaucratic channels, thereafter. As such, nothing less than Change of Pay Band for the Rank of Hav. Sub. Major and consequent changes for other ranks in PBORs will satisfy the major chunk (96%) of Armed Forces.
Govt. will do well if it, now, thinks about the travails of PBORs and give them a solacing touch since it has done much harm to them by creating an unbearable wedge and unwanted categories among the soldiers by showering partial benefits to different cadres of the soldiers.
We, further, request you to take steps towards granting two Pensions to the widows of those ex-servicemen who drew two pensions during their life time. Govt. should also evolve a policy to deploy ex-servicemen suitably up to the age of 60 years just like their civilian counterparts who serve till that age.
Yours Sincerely,
Sd/-
(Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.)
President.
Copy to: Hon'ble Defence Minister for information and necessary action, please.
Sd/-
(Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.)
Mob. 98554-09128.
Indian Ex-Services League,
(Punjab & Chandigarh.)
IESL/13/2009 Dt. 5 June 2009
To,
Sh. S.M. Acharya,
Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Affairs) & Chairman
High Powered Committee, Ministry of Defence
Sena Bhawan, New Delhi – 11 001.
Dear Sir,
It is, indeed, heartening to note that Govt. of India has declared its intention to review and grant 'One Rank One Pension' to ex-servicemen. The league highly applauds this steps of the Govt. formed under Hon'ble Prime Minister, Sh. Manmohan Singh.
The league takes this opportunity to remind the High Powered Committee under your Chairmanship that PBORs have been done much injustice by unjustified recommendation of the Sixth Central Pay Commission in respect of soldiers and its faulty implementation by the bureaucratic channels, thereafter. As such, nothing less than Change of Pay Band for the Rank of Hav. Sub. Major and consequent changes for other ranks in PBORs will satisfy the major chunk (96%) of Armed Forces.
Govt. will do well if it, now, thinks about the travails of PBORs and give them a solacing touch since it has done much harm to them by creating an unbearable wedge and unwanted categories among the soldiers by showering partial benefits to different cadres of the soldiers.
We, further, request you to take steps towards granting two Pensions to the widows of those ex-servicemen who drew two pensions during their life time. Govt. should also evolve a policy to deploy ex-servicemen suitably up to the age of 60 years just like their civilian counterparts who serve till that age.
Yours Sincerely,
Sd/-
(Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.)
President.
Copy to: Hon'ble Defence Minister for information and necessary action, please.
Sd/-
(Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.)
Hindustan Times ....OROP ..Report on one rank one pension by month end: President
......
HINDUSTAN TIMES
Indo-Asian News Service
New Delhi, June 04, 2009
Report on one rank one pension by month end: President
President Pratibha Patil on Thursday said that the cabinet committee formed to look into the long standing 'one rank one pension' demand of armed forces veterans will submit its report by the end of June.
"The welfare of ex-servicemen will continue to be accorded high priority. The committee headed by the cabinet secretary to look into the issue of of one rank one pension has already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009," the president said in her address to a joint session of both houses in parliament.
The government formed the panel headed by cabinet secretary K M Chandrasekhar after many ex-servicemen returned their medals to protest the rejection of their 'one rank one pension' demand.
Ex-servicemen have so far returned about 13,000 medals won in combat or for distinguished service to Patil, who is the supreme commander of the armed forces.
However, the president has not met the protesters, who have handed over the medals in three batches to a member of her staff.
The Indian Ex-Servicemen's Movement (IESM) says that irrespective of the date on which a soldier retires, he or she should get the same pension. The government had rejected this demand earlier this year, pointing to the logistical and financial problems it would create.
Patil also talked about modernisation of the armed forces to counter the threat to the country.
"They (the armed forces) will be fully enabled with modern technology to repel any threat from land, sea or air. To enhance combat efficiency as also to address the requirements of the modern day warfare, a number of steps are underway," she said.
-----------
HINDUSTAN TIMES
Indo-Asian News Service
New Delhi, June 04, 2009
Report on one rank one pension by month end: President
President Pratibha Patil on Thursday said that the cabinet committee formed to look into the long standing 'one rank one pension' demand of armed forces veterans will submit its report by the end of June.
"The welfare of ex-servicemen will continue to be accorded high priority. The committee headed by the cabinet secretary to look into the issue of of one rank one pension has already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009," the president said in her address to a joint session of both houses in parliament.
The government formed the panel headed by cabinet secretary K M Chandrasekhar after many ex-servicemen returned their medals to protest the rejection of their 'one rank one pension' demand.
Ex-servicemen have so far returned about 13,000 medals won in combat or for distinguished service to Patil, who is the supreme commander of the armed forces.
However, the president has not met the protesters, who have handed over the medals in three batches to a member of her staff.
The Indian Ex-Servicemen's Movement (IESM) says that irrespective of the date on which a soldier retires, he or she should get the same pension. The government had rejected this demand earlier this year, pointing to the logistical and financial problems it would create.
Patil also talked about modernisation of the armed forces to counter the threat to the country.
"They (the armed forces) will be fully enabled with modern technology to repel any threat from land, sea or air. To enhance combat efficiency as also to address the requirements of the modern day warfare, a number of steps are underway," she said.
-----------
TRAVAILS OF PBORs Press Note by Prabhjot singh
TRAVAILS OF PBORs
Press Note
Patiala 5 June- In yet an other communiqué dated 5 June, 2009, faxed to High Powered Committee, formed under Sh. S.M. Acharya, Cabinet Secretary (Defence Affairs), with a copy to Hon'ble Defence Minister Sh. A.K Antony, Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has applauded the steps being envisaged to be taken by the Govt. Centre towards the demand of 'ONE RANK ONE PENSION' by the ex-servicemen.
In the same breath, the league has, vehemently, reminded the Govt. that nothing less than the Change of Pay Band for the Rank of Hav. Sub. Major and consequent changes for the their ranks in PBORs will satisfy the major chink (96%) of Armed Forces. As such, Govt. will do well of it now thinks about the travails of PBORs and give them a solacing touch since it has done harm to them by creating an unbearable wedge and unwanted categories among the soldiers by showering partial benefits to different cadres of the soldiers.
League has further requested the committee to take steps towards granting two Pensions to the widows of those ex-servicemen who drew two pensions during their life time. Govt. should also evolve a policy to deploy ex-servicemen suitably up to the age of 60 yrs just like their civilian counterparts who serve till that age.
Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.
President, Indian Ex-Services League,
Punjab & Chandigarh.
Mob. 98554-09128 Ph. 0175-5000896
Press Note
Patiala 5 June- In yet an other communiqué dated 5 June, 2009, faxed to High Powered Committee, formed under Sh. S.M. Acharya, Cabinet Secretary (Defence Affairs), with a copy to Hon'ble Defence Minister Sh. A.K Antony, Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has applauded the steps being envisaged to be taken by the Govt. Centre towards the demand of 'ONE RANK ONE PENSION' by the ex-servicemen.
In the same breath, the league has, vehemently, reminded the Govt. that nothing less than the Change of Pay Band for the Rank of Hav. Sub. Major and consequent changes for the their ranks in PBORs will satisfy the major chink (96%) of Armed Forces. As such, Govt. will do well of it now thinks about the travails of PBORs and give them a solacing touch since it has done harm to them by creating an unbearable wedge and unwanted categories among the soldiers by showering partial benefits to different cadres of the soldiers.
League has further requested the committee to take steps towards granting two Pensions to the widows of those ex-servicemen who drew two pensions during their life time. Govt. should also evolve a policy to deploy ex-servicemen suitably up to the age of 60 yrs just like their civilian counterparts who serve till that age.
Sgt. Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal PLS Retd.
President, Indian Ex-Services League,
Punjab & Chandigarh.
Mob. 98554-09128 Ph. 0175-5000896
OROP - Some Progress and Hopeful Signs
Dear Members,
An extract form the Presidents Address to the Parliament today is given below.
2. Our armed forces are the nation’s pride, a symbol of our values of sacrifice, valour and the spirit of national integration. India’s defence forces stand committed to the task of defending the territorial integrity of the country. They will be fully enabled with modern technology to repel any threat from land, sea or air. To enhance combat efficiency as also to address the requirements of modern day warfare, a number of steps are under way. The welfare of ex-servicemen will continue to be accorded high priority. The Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary, to look into the issue of One Rank One Pension has already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009.
-- The full copy of the address can be seen at
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200906041440.htm
An extract form the Presidents Address to the Parliament today is given below.
2. Our armed forces are the nation’s pride, a symbol of our values of sacrifice, valour and the spirit of national integration. India’s defence forces stand committed to the task of defending the territorial integrity of the country. They will be fully enabled with modern technology to repel any threat from land, sea or air. To enhance combat efficiency as also to address the requirements of modern day warfare, a number of steps are under way. The welfare of ex-servicemen will continue to be accorded high priority. The Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary, to look into the issue of One Rank One Pension has already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009.
-- The full copy of the address can be seen at
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200906041440.htm
TOI : One rank-one pension report by month-end
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India/One-rank-one-pension-report-soon/articleshow/4618069.cms
Times of India
New Delhi
05 June 2009
One rank-one pension report by month-end
5 Jun 2009, 0247 hrs IST, TNN
NEW DELHI: After tying itself in knots over the long-standing demand for one rank-one pension (OROP) for armed forces during the run-up to the general elections, the UPA government has now promised to resolve the contentious matter by this month-end.
In her address to the joint sitting of Parliament on Friday, President Pratibha Patil said the committee headed by cabinet secretary K M Chandrasekhar had "already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009''.
Just before the crucial fourth phase of polling on May 7, the defence ministry had declared that a high-level committee headed by the cabinet secretary had been constituted to "reduce the gap in the pensionary benefits to officers and jawans, bringing it as close to OROP as possible''.
But slapped with a notice from the Election Commission for violating the model code of conduct, the government had swiftly backtracked and denied that the government has constituted any special committee for the purpose.
The grouse of ex-servicemen is that all political parties have used OROP to garner votes but have never implemented it after coming to office. The government had obviously announced the setting up of the committee to counter the BJP's strong `Jai Jawan' tune in its manifesto.
The defence community of 14 lakh serving and 23 lakh retired military personnel, after all, swells into a sizable votebank of around 1.5 crore people if family members are taken into account.
The UPA government, however, is promising only a partial implementation of OROP at best, with the defence ministry itself acknowledging that full implementation is simply not feasible "administratively''.
The defence ministry, however, admits that a case does exist for bringing the quantum of pension of pre-January 1996/October 1997 pensioners at par with post-January 1996/October 1997 and pre-January 2006 ones because the gap between the pensions of past and present retirees has considerably widened after the 6th Pay Commission.
This will entail an additional financial burden of only around Rs 500-600 crore annually, with the government keen to reduce the present four categories of pensioners to only two broad ones of pre and post January 2006 retirees.
"Full OROP implementation, in turn, could mean an annual outgo of around Rs 1,200-1,300 crore, apart from payment of arrears in the range of Rs 4,000 crore,'' said an official.
Times of India
New Delhi
05 June 2009
One rank-one pension report by month-end
5 Jun 2009, 0247 hrs IST, TNN
NEW DELHI: After tying itself in knots over the long-standing demand for one rank-one pension (OROP) for armed forces during the run-up to the general elections, the UPA government has now promised to resolve the contentious matter by this month-end.
In her address to the joint sitting of Parliament on Friday, President Pratibha Patil said the committee headed by cabinet secretary K M Chandrasekhar had "already commenced its work and expects to complete it by the end of June 2009''.
Just before the crucial fourth phase of polling on May 7, the defence ministry had declared that a high-level committee headed by the cabinet secretary had been constituted to "reduce the gap in the pensionary benefits to officers and jawans, bringing it as close to OROP as possible''.
But slapped with a notice from the Election Commission for violating the model code of conduct, the government had swiftly backtracked and denied that the government has constituted any special committee for the purpose.
The grouse of ex-servicemen is that all political parties have used OROP to garner votes but have never implemented it after coming to office. The government had obviously announced the setting up of the committee to counter the BJP's strong `Jai Jawan' tune in its manifesto.
The defence community of 14 lakh serving and 23 lakh retired military personnel, after all, swells into a sizable votebank of around 1.5 crore people if family members are taken into account.
The UPA government, however, is promising only a partial implementation of OROP at best, with the defence ministry itself acknowledging that full implementation is simply not feasible "administratively''.
The defence ministry, however, admits that a case does exist for bringing the quantum of pension of pre-January 1996/October 1997 pensioners at par with post-January 1996/October 1997 and pre-January 2006 ones because the gap between the pensions of past and present retirees has considerably widened after the 6th Pay Commission.
This will entail an additional financial burden of only around Rs 500-600 crore annually, with the government keen to reduce the present four categories of pensioners to only two broad ones of pre and post January 2006 retirees.
"Full OROP implementation, in turn, could mean an annual outgo of around Rs 1,200-1,300 crore, apart from payment of arrears in the range of Rs 4,000 crore,'' said an official.
OROP mentioned by the President in the House
To,
All Members And ESM Organisations
On Emailing List of "Report My Signal".
Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
Most of you may have heard the President Pratibha Patil's speech to the Joint Session of Parliament today, 04 Jun 09.
The President in her address stated that the OROP is being reexamined and the decision will be given before end of June. The whole house thumped the tables on this announcement - the TV camera focused on the RM for this moment.
In Service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
All Members And ESM Organisations
On Emailing List of "Report My Signal".
Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
Most of you may have heard the President Pratibha Patil's speech to the Joint Session of Parliament today, 04 Jun 09.
The President in her address stated that the OROP is being reexamined and the decision will be given before end of June. The whole house thumped the tables on this announcement - the TV camera focused on the RM for this moment.
In Service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Col DP Singh's Views
From: Colonel DPSingh
Subject: Fw: Ex-Servicemen League Photographs
To: mukt_bharat@yahoo.co.in
Cc: k_sameera@dnaindia.net, "IBNLive.com Daily", nmtv@nmtv.tv.in, jvr_gopal@hotmail.com, "rajkadyan" , "satbirsm" , "kamboj"
Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 2:20 AM
Dear Editor,
God and soldier all men adore, in time of danger and not before, when the danger is passed and all things righted, God is forgotten and soldier is SLIGHTED.
120 Ex Servicemen gathered together in the state of Art Punjabi Heritage Bhavan Hall at Sector 8 B CBD 9 (Given free of cost). The excellent ambience of the hall could not suppress the dismay, anger and frustration of these disciplined soldier, who were in a war like mood.
Made to run from pillar to post one after another eminent high ranking soldiers exhorted the members from all over Navi Mumbai to JOIN HANDS, from a vote bank, so that they can become a viable force and make their voice be heard in the political gallery. Mr. Nambia R the General Secretary of Ex Servicemen league CBD welcomed the August gathering and traced the history of this registered 19 year old league. The treasurer Mr. T.D Thomas read out the Accounts, which showed they were penniless.
The President Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh explained how they had been pleading for very simple things which would bring about their lost “ FAUZI IZZAT” and instill a sense of pride not only in the ex-serviceman but also in the younger generation who were reluctant to join the Armed Forces. At present ARMY ALONE has a shortage of 16, 000 officers which were effecting the fighting efficiency of our country. This young generation on seeing the plight of Ex Servicemen are reluctant to join the hazardous and dangerous profession of Armed Forces.
Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh state that the Netas and Bureaucracy are not meting our easy to implement and simple Demand of naming two roads in each NODE of Navi Mumbai after war veteran and famous SHAHIDS showed their mind set. After all there have been cases when Roads have been named after relatives of Corporators even.
Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh further stated that this 21st century city with the richest Municipal Corporation is incomplete without a “SHAHID SAMARARK” which will be another Milestone if constructed. The reluctance to make this shows the apathy towards the Ex Servicemen. The President Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh explained that their league has not been able to do much, because of a lack of office. There request for an office has FALLEN on deaf ears. The Pathetic State of Affairs is that they are functioning out of MANGO GARDEN CBD braving heat, cold and rains vis a vis in sector 8 CBD a huge complex has been made called Mother Teresa Multi Purpose Complex, except for Political activity, there is hardly any worth mentioning activity going on there. Money is being squandered for the benefit of Politician and their Relatives a newly constructed DAY CARE CENTRE again in Sector 8 CBD to is being allotted to a front organization which does not even by any stretch of imagination meet the qualitative requirements laid down. However he was sure the Bureaucracy will help in circumventing the same to please the powerful NETAS of CBD.
Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh stated that in India 14 states have exempted the FAUJIS to pay the Property Tax but for Maharashtra and this Cash Rich Navi Mumbai Municipal Committee yet to grand.
Wing Commander KHERA a very successful and famous businessman known for his transparent and honest dealings moved the house by giving emotional talk, he said that today he is the owner of four different companies all because of his service and training in the Air Force. He said he feels his moral responsibility to return to the services and the society hence he has started a placement agency wherein he places the ex-servicemen and their family members absolutely FREE OF COST.
Commander Gurubaksh Singh a highly respected resident of Navi Mumbai who is known for his social activism and philanthropic nature, because of whom today’s meet was possible. Chairman of Punjabi Association and active ex-serviceman with links all over the world promised that he will get the plot allotted through CIDCO to sub area to enable the armed forces to build a multi-purpose complex housing, canteen ECHS and a rest house for the sainiks. He assured his continuous support socially, financially to our league
General (Retd) Dutt explained the necessity of unity, he also told that gathering to continue to remain calm, quiet and disciplined.
Brig (Retd) Sharma said that the banks were not paying to the Pensioners their dues and thus poor soldiers in for flung villages were suffering Cdr D. S. Yadav explained the need of helping the financially poor ex-servicemen.
Brig (Retd) Dharam Parkash gave the History of Indian Ex Servicemen movement since Dec 2008, hteir Dharna, their rallies and depositing 10,000 gallantry award medals with the President of India. This is a ALL INDIA movement Main Demand is (OROP) One Rank One Pension for the same length of service is our demand pending since last 20 years. Various Governments promised to solve this problem, however it remains unsolved.
Major Bharti thanked the Gurudwara Sahib CBD for providing Mahaprasad.
The President Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh concluded by saying that they will be sitting on a Dharna outside NMMC in last week of July. They will be gaining support of not only Navi Mumbai but Mumbai / ESM also. It was unanimously agreed “ WE WILL SUPPORT ONLY THAT PARTY IN THE FORTH COMING ELECTIONS WHICH WILL SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS”
P Shri Kamal Sharma President of PCWA in a stunning speech told the Ex Servicemen that they are always with them. They can rely upon us for all support and help. He announced that this Hall will be given free of cost to / ESM for their meeting . His speech ended with Resounding “ JO BOLAE SO NIAHAL SAT SRI AKAL”
Lt Col (Retd) D. P. Singh,
603 Shrenik Park, Killa Gaothan,
Belapur, Navi Mumbai – 400614.
Mob. 9819112607
Landline: 022-27576144
C/o Mob: 9869992540
Alt E. Mail:guddi347@yahoo.com
Subject: Fw: Ex-Servicemen League Photographs
To: mukt_bharat@yahoo.co.in
Cc: k_sameera@dnaindia.net, "IBNLive.com Daily"
Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 2:20 AM
Dear Editor,
God and soldier all men adore, in time of danger and not before, when the danger is passed and all things righted, God is forgotten and soldier is SLIGHTED.
120 Ex Servicemen gathered together in the state of Art Punjabi Heritage Bhavan Hall at Sector 8 B CBD 9 (Given free of cost). The excellent ambience of the hall could not suppress the dismay, anger and frustration of these disciplined soldier, who were in a war like mood.
Made to run from pillar to post one after another eminent high ranking soldiers exhorted the members from all over Navi Mumbai to JOIN HANDS, from a vote bank, so that they can become a viable force and make their voice be heard in the political gallery. Mr. Nambia R the General Secretary of Ex Servicemen league CBD welcomed the August gathering and traced the history of this registered 19 year old league. The treasurer Mr. T.D Thomas read out the Accounts, which showed they were penniless.
The President Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh explained how they had been pleading for very simple things which would bring about their lost “ FAUZI IZZAT” and instill a sense of pride not only in the ex-serviceman but also in the younger generation who were reluctant to join the Armed Forces. At present ARMY ALONE has a shortage of 16, 000 officers which were effecting the fighting efficiency of our country. This young generation on seeing the plight of Ex Servicemen are reluctant to join the hazardous and dangerous profession of Armed Forces.
Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh state that the Netas and Bureaucracy are not meting our easy to implement and simple Demand of naming two roads in each NODE of Navi Mumbai after war veteran and famous SHAHIDS showed their mind set. After all there have been cases when Roads have been named after relatives of Corporators even.
Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh further stated that this 21st century city with the richest Municipal Corporation is incomplete without a “SHAHID SAMARARK” which will be another Milestone if constructed. The reluctance to make this shows the apathy towards the Ex Servicemen. The President Lt. Col (Retd) D. P. Singh explained that their league has not been able to do much, because of a lack of office. There request for an office has FALLEN on deaf ears. The Pathetic State of Affairs is that they are functioning out of MANGO GARDEN CBD braving heat, cold and rains vis a vis in sector 8 CBD a huge complex has been made called Mother Teresa Multi Purpose Complex, except for Political activity, there is hardly any worth mentioning activity going on there. Money is being squandered for the benefit of Politician and their Relatives a newly constructed DAY CARE CENTRE again in Sector 8 CBD to is being allotted to a front organization which does not even by any stretch of imagination meet the qualitative requirements laid down. However he was sure the Bureaucracy will help in circumventing the same to please the powerful NETAS of CBD.
Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh stated that in India 14 states have exempted the FAUJIS to pay the Property Tax but for Maharashtra and this Cash Rich Navi Mumbai Municipal Committee yet to grand.
Wing Commander KHERA a very successful and famous businessman known for his transparent and honest dealings moved the house by giving emotional talk, he said that today he is the owner of four different companies all because of his service and training in the Air Force. He said he feels his moral responsibility to return to the services and the society hence he has started a placement agency wherein he places the ex-servicemen and their family members absolutely FREE OF COST.
Commander Gurubaksh Singh a highly respected resident of Navi Mumbai who is known for his social activism and philanthropic nature, because of whom today’s meet was possible. Chairman of Punjabi Association and active ex-serviceman with links all over the world promised that he will get the plot allotted through CIDCO to sub area to enable the armed forces to build a multi-purpose complex housing, canteen ECHS and a rest house for the sainiks. He assured his continuous support socially, financially to our league
General (Retd) Dutt explained the necessity of unity, he also told that gathering to continue to remain calm, quiet and disciplined.
Brig (Retd) Sharma said that the banks were not paying to the Pensioners their dues and thus poor soldiers in for flung villages were suffering Cdr D. S. Yadav explained the need of helping the financially poor ex-servicemen.
Brig (Retd) Dharam Parkash gave the History of Indian Ex Servicemen movement since Dec 2008, hteir Dharna, their rallies and depositing 10,000 gallantry award medals with the President of India. This is a ALL INDIA movement Main Demand is (OROP) One Rank One Pension for the same length of service is our demand pending since last 20 years. Various Governments promised to solve this problem, however it remains unsolved.
Major Bharti thanked the Gurudwara Sahib CBD for providing Mahaprasad.
The President Lt. Col. (Retd) D. P. Singh concluded by saying that they will be sitting on a Dharna outside NMMC in last week of July. They will be gaining support of not only Navi Mumbai but Mumbai / ESM also. It was unanimously agreed “ WE WILL SUPPORT ONLY THAT PARTY IN THE FORTH COMING ELECTIONS WHICH WILL SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS”
P Shri Kamal Sharma President of PCWA in a stunning speech told the Ex Servicemen that they are always with them. They can rely upon us for all support and help. He announced that this Hall will be given free of cost to / ESM for their meeting . His speech ended with Resounding “ JO BOLAE SO NIAHAL SAT SRI AKAL”
Lt Col (Retd) D. P. Singh,
603 Shrenik Park, Killa Gaothan,
Belapur, Navi Mumbai – 400614.
Mob. 9819112607
Landline: 022-27576144
C/o Mob: 9869992540
Alt E. Mail:guddi347@yahoo.com
Major Mistake-PCDA Cicular No412-Revision of LtCol Pension-will cause confusion
Sir,
There is, I feel a major mistake at para 2 of PCDA Circular No.412 dated 26-05-2009 titled "Most Important Circular" regarding revision of pension for Lt. Cols and eq ranks in the Navy and IAF, attached herewith.
Para 2 goes on to say ..."in respect of Lt. Cols (Substantive) and Lt. Cols(Time Scale).....".Amount of Pension so far has not been fixed on the basis of "substantive" or "acting" rank. It varied based on whether one is promoted as"select" or "timescale" and also on the basis of number of years of "qualifying service".
This is an inadvertent, perhaps typographical error or error committed by a typist trying to expand the letter "S". But is likely to cause major problems when PDAs while fixing individual pensions/arrears try to decipher the term"Substantive".
Could IESM take it up with the govt/PCDA ?
Shashank Bendre
There is, I feel a major mistake at para 2 of PCDA Circular No.412 dated 26-05-2009 titled "Most Important Circular" regarding revision of pension for Lt. Cols and eq ranks in the Navy and IAF, attached herewith.
Para 2 goes on to say ..."in respect of Lt. Cols (Substantive) and Lt. Cols(Time Scale).....".Amount of Pension so far has not been fixed on the basis of "substantive" or "acting" rank. It varied based on whether one is promoted as"select" or "timescale" and also on the basis of number of years of "qualifying service".
This is an inadvertent, perhaps typographical error or error committed by a typist trying to expand the letter "S". But is likely to cause major problems when PDAs while fixing individual pensions/arrears try to decipher the term"Substantive".
Could IESM take it up with the govt/PCDA ?
Shashank Bendre
PBORs: Pension Scales downscaled?
Patiala, 01 June 2009
PBORs (Personnel Below Officers Rank) in the Defence Forces, while in war, face a much heavy risk than their counter parts among the officer cadre, apart from the alarming stress they suffer during the peace time which is quite evident from the census reports of ex-serviceman under taken by Zila Sainik Boards in the country.
On 26/11 at Mumbai, two Havildars have given their life. They are Hav Gajender Singh, Para, 51 SAG, and Hav Bahadur Singh Bohra, 10 Para (SF). Both were posthumously awarded Ashok Chakra on 26 Jan 2009. Everyone remembers Maj Sandeep Unnikrishnan, but very few remember these PBORs. Four PBORs were awarded Kirti Chakras, nine were awarded Shaurya Chakras and 53 Sena Medals (Gallantry) were given to PBORs On 26 Jan 2009.
Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has found that the census report up to March, 2006 consolidated by Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) shows that a total number of war widows registered with KSB is 13594. Out of this, number of war widows of officers cadre is 576 whereas war widows of JCOs (Junior Commissioned Officer) count for 896 and war widows of other ranks (Hav and below) form a big chunk, numbering 12124.
Going by the above facts, it is highly distressing to find that the pension packets of PBORs (Pre-2006) is much below the rational scale. Ex-servicemen up to the rank of Hav (Senior Non-Commissioned Officer) who face the highest risk, have been placed in a minimum pension packet of Rs 3500/- per month along with class IV employees in Pay Band- I where as maximum pension has been fixed at Rs 45,000/- for the person who faces the least risk during the war.
Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has asked the Centre Government to look in to this fact and find out a rational solution to this problem prevailing among the PBORs lest the Indian soldiers, who are known for their bravery the world over, may lose the shine. In its earlier communiques submitted to the High Powered Committee formed under the Chairmanship of Defence Secretary (Ex-Serviceman affairs), Shri SM Acharya the league has asked the committee to consider the change of Pay Band for Hav to PB-2 and for Sub Major to PB-3.
At the same time, league has demanded that rate of minimum pension for ex-servicemen (Reservist) be raised to Rs 4,600/- For other ranks league has asked a raised pension of Rs 6,000/ for a Sepoy, Rs 7,000/- for Nk 9,000/- for Hav Rs 10,000/- for Nb Sub Rs 11,000/- for Sub Rs 13,000/- for to Sub Major which will only assuage the heart burning among the PBORs prior to demand of One Rank One Pension, being reviewed by the new government at the centre.
IESL is highly indebted to those few officers and organizations who have lent support to this demand of PBORs and further expects that the remaining big brothers will also think of welfare of their subordinates who stood shoulder to shoulder with them, both in war and peace during service and after retirement. The morale of PBORs are under severe strain. It is high time that the big brothers take up the issue with the Government on top priority.
Sgt Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal (Retd)
President, Indian Ex-Services League,
Punjab & Chandigarh.
PBORs (Personnel Below Officers Rank) in the Defence Forces, while in war, face a much heavy risk than their counter parts among the officer cadre, apart from the alarming stress they suffer during the peace time which is quite evident from the census reports of ex-serviceman under taken by Zila Sainik Boards in the country.
On 26/11 at Mumbai, two Havildars have given their life. They are Hav Gajender Singh, Para, 51 SAG, and Hav Bahadur Singh Bohra, 10 Para (SF). Both were posthumously awarded Ashok Chakra on 26 Jan 2009. Everyone remembers Maj Sandeep Unnikrishnan, but very few remember these PBORs. Four PBORs were awarded Kirti Chakras, nine were awarded Shaurya Chakras and 53 Sena Medals (Gallantry) were given to PBORs On 26 Jan 2009.
Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has found that the census report up to March, 2006 consolidated by Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) shows that a total number of war widows registered with KSB is 13594. Out of this, number of war widows of officers cadre is 576 whereas war widows of JCOs (Junior Commissioned Officer) count for 896 and war widows of other ranks (Hav and below) form a big chunk, numbering 12124.
Going by the above facts, it is highly distressing to find that the pension packets of PBORs (Pre-2006) is much below the rational scale. Ex-servicemen up to the rank of Hav (Senior Non-Commissioned Officer) who face the highest risk, have been placed in a minimum pension packet of Rs 3500/- per month along with class IV employees in Pay Band- I where as maximum pension has been fixed at Rs 45,000/- for the person who faces the least risk during the war.
Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab & Chandigarh, has asked the Centre Government to look in to this fact and find out a rational solution to this problem prevailing among the PBORs lest the Indian soldiers, who are known for their bravery the world over, may lose the shine. In its earlier communiques submitted to the High Powered Committee formed under the Chairmanship of Defence Secretary (Ex-Serviceman affairs), Shri SM Acharya the league has asked the committee to consider the change of Pay Band for Hav to PB-2 and for Sub Major to PB-3.
At the same time, league has demanded that rate of minimum pension for ex-servicemen (Reservist) be raised to Rs 4,600/- For other ranks league has asked a raised pension of Rs 6,000/ for a Sepoy, Rs 7,000/- for Nk 9,000/- for Hav Rs 10,000/- for Nb Sub Rs 11,000/- for Sub Rs 13,000/- for to Sub Major which will only assuage the heart burning among the PBORs prior to demand of One Rank One Pension, being reviewed by the new government at the centre.
IESL is highly indebted to those few officers and organizations who have lent support to this demand of PBORs and further expects that the remaining big brothers will also think of welfare of their subordinates who stood shoulder to shoulder with them, both in war and peace during service and after retirement. The morale of PBORs are under severe strain. It is high time that the big brothers take up the issue with the Government on top priority.
Sgt Prabhjot Singh Chhatwal (Retd)
President, Indian Ex-Services League,
Punjab & Chandigarh.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
IESM Members data on line Service Wise
Dear All members of IESM,
Pls follow the following method to view your data on the www.iesm.org site
1. Open the site by http://www.iesm.org
2.You would see "Log In" tab on the home page ( Last on right side top on your screen)
3. Click on "Log in" Tab and you would see a small pop up showing Login ID and Password .Please enter word lower case please "veteran" infront of Login ID and also "veteran" in password without the quotes and click on Submit button.
4.On click of Submit you would see "Member's Area" Tab on extreme left side top. Click on this tab and you would see 5 submenus. Click on View members and you can see the links to Army / Airforce / Navy list..etc.
5. After seeing the list and your name in the same pls use this exact name in "Search your Record".Any discrepancy kindly send to Maj Gen P renjen prenjen@hotmail.com or Cdr Sharan Ahuja sharansahuja@gmail.com for correction pls.
Regards
Cdr Sharan Ahuja (Retd)
Member core group IESM
Pls follow the following method to view your data on the www.iesm.org site
1. Open the site by http://www.iesm.org
2.You would see "Log In" tab on the home page ( Last on right side top on your screen)
3. Click on "Log in" Tab and you would see a small pop up showing Login ID and Password .Please enter word lower case please "veteran" infront of Login ID and also "veteran" in password without the quotes and click on Submit button.
4.On click of Submit you would see "Member's Area" Tab on extreme left side top. Click on this tab and you would see 5 submenus. Click on View members and you can see the links to Army / Airforce / Navy list..etc.
5. After seeing the list and your name in the same pls use this exact name in "Search your Record".Any discrepancy kindly send to Maj Gen P renjen prenjen@hotmail.com or Cdr Sharan Ahuja sharansahuja@gmail.com for correction pls.
Regards
Cdr Sharan Ahuja (Retd)
Member core group IESM
List of Achievements (in brief) by Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, (Regd) Mohali, NGO, Till 31 May 09
List of Achievements (in brief) by Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, (Regd) Mohali, NGO, Till 31 May 09
We, (with 1550+ Members), are selflessly serving at our own cost & risk, to safe Guard Interests & Welfare of Ex- Servicemen Community, for them to live with dignity. We have created an impact, brought a check on anti ESM attitudes people, got encouraging support from media, Service HQrs, Govt & Public in settling ESM Grievances & genuine problems. We devote every Saturday for ESM cause/ issues and have got remarkable achievements, like: -
1. 122+ ESM Sailors/ Widow with 14 Yrs service, got full Pension by condoning upto 12 months Service shortfall from Naval HQ/ MOD. Above ESM got 25-30 yrs back dated Pensions & arrears, due to this revised Naval HQ policy.
2. 3 Handicapped ESM got wheel chairs, free of cost from Red Cross/ DC Ropar, in Feb 03 & by AIATF in Aug 07.
3. 8 ESM got JBT/ ETT Teacher’s Job in Pb after 3 Civil Writ Petitions. Few more cases are in progress.
4. Struggling to Implement 13% ESM job’s drying Quota, reduced to less than 1.5%, due to poor mngt & neglect. ESM Resettlement is negligible. Banks, take ESM only on contract jobs & Security agencies also exploited ESM.
5. Took up ESM Definition, corruption, ill treating & anti ESM cases and to step up Sainik Welfare Board’s support.
6. Took up 5 cases of 1965 & 71 War Widows/ wards & Op Casualties for compensation, land & other entitlements.
7. 1962 War Widow Mohinder Kaur of Vill Sil- Kharar’s, 30 & 50 canals land missing case is under active progress.
8. Helping 1965 War Blind ESM Spr Kaka Singh for his 10 acres missing land. He got Brail Watch from an NGO.
9. N/ Sub Parampal Singh & 4 Other Ranks were sent back on Army duty/ Job, after cases in 2003, 07 & 08.
10. Disability Pension, Out of 56 cases processed, 28 got DP, 11 rejected & 8 cases are still under active progress.
11. Family Pension, out of 39 cases processed, 27 got FP, with kind help of MOD, AHQ, Records & PCDA (P).
12. Flats for 3 War Widows & Plots allotment to 5 ESM/ Widows applied 25 yrs back, in UT Chd, in progress.
13. NK GS Tung (AOC) of Ludhiana got 240 days leave encashment after rules amendment & also got due Dis Pen.
14. Widow of late Maj RS Kaushal got belated dues from CDA and Rs 50,000 & house documents back from PUDA.
15. ESM Sadhu Ram died in Police custody at Kharar, pension less widow got Rs 43000/- Fin help, after intervention.
16. Assisted 850+ veterans in making their Senior Citizens Cards from DC Ropar and SDM Mohali Office.
17. Helped Sgt CS Saini & other ESM to get justice and 33 Jobs Vacancies in Pb State Warehouse Corpn.
18. High lighted ESM Job monitoring cell in various depts & brought some check on anti ESM attitudes & activities.
19. 2 ESM’s cases of Harassment by Civil were settled through Pb State Human Rights Commission in 2004 & 06.
20. To Protect Defence Persons Property & to amend Rent Control Act for ESM, case in progress with Pb & MOD.
21. PBORs can also get Car through CSD Canteen now. This NGO fought case for 5-6 years with AHQ & MOD.
22. Case for CSD Depot/ AFD items dealer at Mohali and to equate ESM liquor Quota with Serving Soldiers, is on.
23. Case with EC of India to issue Multipurpose National Voter’s/ Identity card, to meet today’s security problems.
24. CM-Pb kindly made Mohali a Distt HQ wef 14/4/06 & given judiciary system after 5 year’s struggle by this NGO.
25. Pursuing cases also for proper ZSB, ECHS Polyclinic, Multipurpose Bldg, DPDO & Defence Colony in Mohali.
26. 3 out of 5 got Medical reimbursement claims, of cases processed with Kendrya Sainik Board New Delhi.
27. Case with MOD/ AHQ to update Directory on Equation of Service Trades with Civil Trades for Jobs, since 7 yrs.
28. Managed working of ZSB Ropar in Mohali also, for 1-2 days in a week from last 6-7 yrs, proved very fruitful to ESM.
29. CGDA/ CDA have computerized Family Pension records & to release Commuted Value of Pension, automatically.
30. 5 Veterans of WW-II & widows, cases were prog through IESL Delhi for Pen & fin Asst, output is still awaited.
31. 11 cases prog for Fin Asst from Raksha Mantri’s Discretionary Fund (RMDF) via ZSB Mohali & 3 got amount.
32. Pursuing Case of Maj JS Malik & 53 Prisoners of 65 &71 Wars in Pakistan jails, with Pb/ Union Govts for release.
33. Ex Maj Gurdit Singh (92) Court Martialled by British in 1946, gets Freedom Fighter’s pension but via High Court.
34. Sub Joginder Singh (Ludhiana) & Widow of Maj Ram Singh (Kharar) got their land back, by our cases with Police.
35. Helping Widow of Col Bhupinder Singh (Patiala) in getting control of entry path to her land in Mansa, since 2 yrs.
36. CM-Pb, had nominated Lt Col S S Sohi (Retd), as Member of Pb Distt Planning & Devp Board Ropar in 2003.
37. So, ITI (Girls) Ph-5 Mohali got 1.5 lakh grants from Distt Planning Board; case was projected through this NGO.
38. Mutually settled complicated Divorce case of 2 ESM (Sgt CS Saini’s) wards, with Police Women Cell’s help.
39. 21 ESM documents progressed through ZSBs for changes/ Pt II order & Nk Rulia Ram got missing Discharge Book.
40. AHQ has kindly abolished post of MAP wef Sep 05, who use to reduce/ reject ESM’s Dis Pen after spl Med Board.
41. CM-Pb kindly granted Annuity & Grant’s amount to WW-II Gallantry Awardee Hav Harcharan Singh of Kharar.
42. Capt BR Jindal died in 1972, on C/Leave, case for Pensionery benefits to parents got accepted by AHQ in 2006.
43. Struggling for OROP, improve Dis & Fly Pen & ESM resettlement rules and service terms & conditions.
44. Separate Pay Commission for Defence Forces: 22 reasons/ neglected of tough & risky service conditions.
45. Case for Def Rep in 6th CPC democratically being 1/3rd of Central Govt Employees & to express our problems.
46. Widow of Lt Col SS Samra (Chandigarh) got Family Pension in Apr 07, back dated along with last 20 yrs arrears.
47. Got Family Pension to Handicapped NOK Miss Sukhwinder Kaur (44) d/o of late Capt SS Bal of Mohali, in 2006.
48. Donated Rs 11, 000/- ESM contributions to PM’s National Relief Fund, for rehabilitation of Tsunami victims.
49. 5 cases for Pro-rata pension after 10 Yrs service and to improve upon OP Casualty rates for compensation.
50. Case for Defence Bank of India & settled Banking problems of 23 ESM under Banks Ombudsman RBI Chd.
51. Extortion & Harassment to Martyr’s mother Fatima by ex Sarpanch of Vill Dahlize (Sangrur) case high lighted.
52. Fly Pen to NOK of Missing Hav Amarjit Singh(3 yrs) of Moga & in prog.
53. 1984 Riots victim compensation case of Sub Pritam Singh (of Banur) in progress with Pb Govt & Dir SW Pb.
54. Sep Mehnga Singh (76) got ESM status after 54 Yrs, pursuing his case for a Plot allotment & Fin Asst from RMDF.
55. Distributed Sewing Machines to needy 16 Defence Widows on 17/2/07 & assisted their wards for jobs.
56. Parents of deceased soldiers also deserve terminal benefits/ Fly Pen. 3 cases rejected & still in progress.
57. Progressing 7 ESM Quota Tube well connections cases. ESM waiting list held up by new Pb Govt Policy.
58. Handicapped ESM Sukhpal Singh is still daily wager after 14 yrs service. Court orders to Pb PH/ Water works dept.
59. ESM Sep Harjinder Singh recommended for State Bravery Award for saving drowning young lady, risking his life.
60. Mohali City got Kendrya Vidyalya after our 4 year’s struggle with Pb Govt, KV Sangathan & other authorities.
61. Helping Palwinder Kaur (Fatehgarh sahib) struggling for Fly Pen of missing/ dead husband since last 19 yrs.
62. Fly Pen case of Miss Savita (60) d/o Col Sodhi, in progress to get her back dated FP & arrears wef 26/9/98.
63. Provided Fin Asst to Widows Palwinder Kaur & Vergese Thomas Rs 1000 each and also to Sep Mehnga Singh.
64. Provided affordable legal/ gen asst to a large number of ESM & Defence Widows where required.
64. Played significant role in org protests for OROP & ESM problems/ value in Tricity & Delhi, as Coord IESM Pb.
65. FORTIs Hospital Mohali waived off Rs 2.57 lakh Medical Expenses of late Wt Offr Baldev Raj (IAF) of Ambala to his family and also promised to refund 1.10 lakh more later on.
67. As Patron Consumer Protection Forum (Regd) Mohali, playing active role for services to Mohali ESM/ citizens.
To: All Concerned. (Lt Col SS Sohi, Retd). President,
(May we help you sir, please)? Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, (Regd).
HO.1121/ 71 Mohali. M: 09815107744
We, (with 1550+ Members), are selflessly serving at our own cost & risk, to safe Guard Interests & Welfare of Ex- Servicemen Community, for them to live with dignity. We have created an impact, brought a check on anti ESM attitudes people, got encouraging support from media, Service HQrs, Govt & Public in settling ESM Grievances & genuine problems. We devote every Saturday for ESM cause/ issues and have got remarkable achievements, like: -
1. 122+ ESM Sailors/ Widow with 14 Yrs service, got full Pension by condoning upto 12 months Service shortfall from Naval HQ/ MOD. Above ESM got 25-30 yrs back dated Pensions & arrears, due to this revised Naval HQ policy.
2. 3 Handicapped ESM got wheel chairs, free of cost from Red Cross/ DC Ropar, in Feb 03 & by AIATF in Aug 07.
3. 8 ESM got JBT/ ETT Teacher’s Job in Pb after 3 Civil Writ Petitions. Few more cases are in progress.
4. Struggling to Implement 13% ESM job’s drying Quota, reduced to less than 1.5%, due to poor mngt & neglect. ESM Resettlement is negligible. Banks, take ESM only on contract jobs & Security agencies also exploited ESM.
5. Took up ESM Definition, corruption, ill treating & anti ESM cases and to step up Sainik Welfare Board’s support.
6. Took up 5 cases of 1965 & 71 War Widows/ wards & Op Casualties for compensation, land & other entitlements.
7. 1962 War Widow Mohinder Kaur of Vill Sil- Kharar’s, 30 & 50 canals land missing case is under active progress.
8. Helping 1965 War Blind ESM Spr Kaka Singh for his 10 acres missing land. He got Brail Watch from an NGO.
9. N/ Sub Parampal Singh & 4 Other Ranks were sent back on Army duty/ Job, after cases in 2003, 07 & 08.
10. Disability Pension, Out of 56 cases processed, 28 got DP, 11 rejected & 8 cases are still under active progress.
11. Family Pension, out of 39 cases processed, 27 got FP, with kind help of MOD, AHQ, Records & PCDA (P).
12. Flats for 3 War Widows & Plots allotment to 5 ESM/ Widows applied 25 yrs back, in UT Chd, in progress.
13. NK GS Tung (AOC) of Ludhiana got 240 days leave encashment after rules amendment & also got due Dis Pen.
14. Widow of late Maj RS Kaushal got belated dues from CDA and Rs 50,000 & house documents back from PUDA.
15. ESM Sadhu Ram died in Police custody at Kharar, pension less widow got Rs 43000/- Fin help, after intervention.
16. Assisted 850+ veterans in making their Senior Citizens Cards from DC Ropar and SDM Mohali Office.
17. Helped Sgt CS Saini & other ESM to get justice and 33 Jobs Vacancies in Pb State Warehouse Corpn.
18. High lighted ESM Job monitoring cell in various depts & brought some check on anti ESM attitudes & activities.
19. 2 ESM’s cases of Harassment by Civil were settled through Pb State Human Rights Commission in 2004 & 06.
20. To Protect Defence Persons Property & to amend Rent Control Act for ESM, case in progress with Pb & MOD.
21. PBORs can also get Car through CSD Canteen now. This NGO fought case for 5-6 years with AHQ & MOD.
22. Case for CSD Depot/ AFD items dealer at Mohali and to equate ESM liquor Quota with Serving Soldiers, is on.
23. Case with EC of India to issue Multipurpose National Voter’s/ Identity card, to meet today’s security problems.
24. CM-Pb kindly made Mohali a Distt HQ wef 14/4/06 & given judiciary system after 5 year’s struggle by this NGO.
25. Pursuing cases also for proper ZSB, ECHS Polyclinic, Multipurpose Bldg, DPDO & Defence Colony in Mohali.
26. 3 out of 5 got Medical reimbursement claims, of cases processed with Kendrya Sainik Board New Delhi.
27. Case with MOD/ AHQ to update Directory on Equation of Service Trades with Civil Trades for Jobs, since 7 yrs.
28. Managed working of ZSB Ropar in Mohali also, for 1-2 days in a week from last 6-7 yrs, proved very fruitful to ESM.
29. CGDA/ CDA have computerized Family Pension records & to release Commuted Value of Pension, automatically.
30. 5 Veterans of WW-II & widows, cases were prog through IESL Delhi for Pen & fin Asst, output is still awaited.
31. 11 cases prog for Fin Asst from Raksha Mantri’s Discretionary Fund (RMDF) via ZSB Mohali & 3 got amount.
32. Pursuing Case of Maj JS Malik & 53 Prisoners of 65 &71 Wars in Pakistan jails, with Pb/ Union Govts for release.
33. Ex Maj Gurdit Singh (92) Court Martialled by British in 1946, gets Freedom Fighter’s pension but via High Court.
34. Sub Joginder Singh (Ludhiana) & Widow of Maj Ram Singh (Kharar) got their land back, by our cases with Police.
35. Helping Widow of Col Bhupinder Singh (Patiala) in getting control of entry path to her land in Mansa, since 2 yrs.
36. CM-Pb, had nominated Lt Col S S Sohi (Retd), as Member of Pb Distt Planning & Devp Board Ropar in 2003.
37. So, ITI (Girls) Ph-5 Mohali got 1.5 lakh grants from Distt Planning Board; case was projected through this NGO.
38. Mutually settled complicated Divorce case of 2 ESM (Sgt CS Saini’s) wards, with Police Women Cell’s help.
39. 21 ESM documents progressed through ZSBs for changes/ Pt II order & Nk Rulia Ram got missing Discharge Book.
40. AHQ has kindly abolished post of MAP wef Sep 05, who use to reduce/ reject ESM’s Dis Pen after spl Med Board.
41. CM-Pb kindly granted Annuity & Grant’s amount to WW-II Gallantry Awardee Hav Harcharan Singh of Kharar.
42. Capt BR Jindal died in 1972, on C/Leave, case for Pensionery benefits to parents got accepted by AHQ in 2006.
43. Struggling for OROP, improve Dis & Fly Pen & ESM resettlement rules and service terms & conditions.
44. Separate Pay Commission for Defence Forces: 22 reasons/ neglected of tough & risky service conditions.
45. Case for Def Rep in 6th CPC democratically being 1/3rd of Central Govt Employees & to express our problems.
46. Widow of Lt Col SS Samra (Chandigarh) got Family Pension in Apr 07, back dated along with last 20 yrs arrears.
47. Got Family Pension to Handicapped NOK Miss Sukhwinder Kaur (44) d/o of late Capt SS Bal of Mohali, in 2006.
48. Donated Rs 11, 000/- ESM contributions to PM’s National Relief Fund, for rehabilitation of Tsunami victims.
49. 5 cases for Pro-rata pension after 10 Yrs service and to improve upon OP Casualty rates for compensation.
50. Case for Defence Bank of India & settled Banking problems of 23 ESM under Banks Ombudsman RBI Chd.
51. Extortion & Harassment to Martyr’s mother Fatima by ex Sarpanch of Vill Dahlize (Sangrur) case high lighted.
52. Fly Pen to NOK of Missing Hav Amarjit Singh(3 yrs) of Moga & in prog.
53. 1984 Riots victim compensation case of Sub Pritam Singh (of Banur) in progress with Pb Govt & Dir SW Pb.
54. Sep Mehnga Singh (76) got ESM status after 54 Yrs, pursuing his case for a Plot allotment & Fin Asst from RMDF.
55. Distributed Sewing Machines to needy 16 Defence Widows on 17/2/07 & assisted their wards for jobs.
56. Parents of deceased soldiers also deserve terminal benefits/ Fly Pen. 3 cases rejected & still in progress.
57. Progressing 7 ESM Quota Tube well connections cases. ESM waiting list held up by new Pb Govt Policy.
58. Handicapped ESM Sukhpal Singh is still daily wager after 14 yrs service. Court orders to Pb PH/ Water works dept.
59. ESM Sep Harjinder Singh recommended for State Bravery Award for saving drowning young lady, risking his life.
60. Mohali City got Kendrya Vidyalya after our 4 year’s struggle with Pb Govt, KV Sangathan & other authorities.
61. Helping Palwinder Kaur (Fatehgarh sahib) struggling for Fly Pen of missing/ dead husband since last 19 yrs.
62. Fly Pen case of Miss Savita (60) d/o Col Sodhi, in progress to get her back dated FP & arrears wef 26/9/98.
63. Provided Fin Asst to Widows Palwinder Kaur & Vergese Thomas Rs 1000 each and also to Sep Mehnga Singh.
64. Provided affordable legal/ gen asst to a large number of ESM & Defence Widows where required.
64. Played significant role in org protests for OROP & ESM problems/ value in Tricity & Delhi, as Coord IESM Pb.
65. FORTIs Hospital Mohali waived off Rs 2.57 lakh Medical Expenses of late Wt Offr Baldev Raj (IAF) of Ambala to his family and also promised to refund 1.10 lakh more later on.
67. As Patron Consumer Protection Forum (Regd) Mohali, playing active role for services to Mohali ESM/ citizens.
To: All Concerned. (Lt Col SS Sohi, Retd). President,
(May we help you sir, please)? Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, (Regd).
HO.1121/ 71 Mohali. M: 09815107744
Monday, June 1, 2009
SALUTE to the Indian Soldier by Maroof Raza
Respected Military Veterans,
Jai Hind.
I salute Veteran Major Maroof Raza, Managing Director and Veteran Cdr Atul Bharadwaj, Editor of "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier", an excellent fortnightly magazine, for its getup, contents & presentation. "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier", is truly worth its weight in Gold; and is a MUST read for both serving Officers and Veterans alike. I wish all Units and Messes subscribe to "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier".
Please click on the following links and go through them.
OMNIPRESENT ENGINEERS
http://www.salute.co.in/170509/index.asp
THE CAPTURE OF DOGRAI & HAJI PIR - Maroof Raza
http://salute.co.in/141208/col_maroof.asp
My salute to Veteran Air Cmde Prashant Dikshit for the Cover Story:
THE SAPPERS' SUCCOUR PUNCH
http://www.salute.co.in/170509/feat_Cover%20Story.html
Sappers are always the first to reach the disaster afflicted spot. Providing assistance to Indians in distress across the length and breadth of the country and beyond comes naturally to the Corps, chronicles Veteran Air Cmde Prashant Dikshit.
QUOTE
Our inadequacies in recounting the feats of outstanding dedication and verve of the Corps of Engineers of the Indian Army in providing succour to the people in distress and peril are more than made up by our public consciousness. Because Sappers, as they are historically known, have always been omnipresent key players in all rescue and relief activities to have set a benchmark for service to our nation. "The sands of time bear testimony to the innumerable and vast array of indomitable tasks undertaken by the Sappers ranging from construction of dams, roads, jetties and infrastructure to helping in healing the scars of death and destruction in disasters" wrote an eulogy to this entity . Without their helping hands during the cyclone of Orissa in 1999, the earthquake of Bhuj in 2001, the devastations wreaked by the Tsunami in 2004 and the most recent earthquake of 2005 in Jammu and Kashmir; it would have been cataclysmic. The Sappers have been the saviours in the shared beliefs in our nation's history. To term their contribution simplistically as "Disaster Mitigation" therefore , is an act in abject humility.
With a measure of intense nostalgia, one read, in August 1959, of the perilous collapse of the diversion tunnel and flooding of the chamber , galleries and the power house with the waters of the Gobind Sagar reservoir at the nation's showpiece, the iconic Bhakra Dam. The occurrence had threatened the very existence of the dam itself when the Sappers led by Lt Col PLN Choudary had launched "Operation Madhuri" to save the project and lives. In a day and night incessant endeavour, which lasted for nearly four months, they had transported thousands of 20 tons concrete blocks on Bailey rafts to release them at selected points and block the tunnel finally.
UNQUOTE
Regards,
Col Rajan,
Bangalore, 9448024377
Jai Hind.
I salute Veteran Major Maroof Raza, Managing Director and Veteran Cdr Atul Bharadwaj, Editor of "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier", an excellent fortnightly magazine, for its getup, contents & presentation. "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier", is truly worth its weight in Gold; and is a MUST read for both serving Officers and Veterans alike. I wish all Units and Messes subscribe to "SALUTE to the Indian Soldier".
Please click on the following links and go through them.
OMNIPRESENT ENGINEERS
http://www.salute.co.in/170509/index.asp
THE CAPTURE OF DOGRAI & HAJI PIR - Maroof Raza
http://salute.co.in/141208/col_maroof.asp
My salute to Veteran Air Cmde Prashant Dikshit for the Cover Story:
THE SAPPERS' SUCCOUR PUNCH
http://www.salute.co.in/170509/feat_Cover%20Story.html
Sappers are always the first to reach the disaster afflicted spot. Providing assistance to Indians in distress across the length and breadth of the country and beyond comes naturally to the Corps, chronicles Veteran Air Cmde Prashant Dikshit.
QUOTE
Our inadequacies in recounting the feats of outstanding dedication and verve of the Corps of Engineers of the Indian Army in providing succour to the people in distress and peril are more than made up by our public consciousness. Because Sappers, as they are historically known, have always been omnipresent key players in all rescue and relief activities to have set a benchmark for service to our nation. "The sands of time bear testimony to the innumerable and vast array of indomitable tasks undertaken by the Sappers ranging from construction of dams, roads, jetties and infrastructure to helping in healing the scars of death and destruction in disasters" wrote an eulogy to this entity . Without their helping hands during the cyclone of Orissa in 1999, the earthquake of Bhuj in 2001, the devastations wreaked by the Tsunami in 2004 and the most recent earthquake of 2005 in Jammu and Kashmir; it would have been cataclysmic. The Sappers have been the saviours in the shared beliefs in our nation's history. To term their contribution simplistically as "Disaster Mitigation" therefore , is an act in abject humility.
With a measure of intense nostalgia, one read, in August 1959, of the perilous collapse of the diversion tunnel and flooding of the chamber , galleries and the power house with the waters of the Gobind Sagar reservoir at the nation's showpiece, the iconic Bhakra Dam. The occurrence had threatened the very existence of the dam itself when the Sappers led by Lt Col PLN Choudary had launched "Operation Madhuri" to save the project and lives. In a day and night incessant endeavour, which lasted for nearly four months, they had transported thousands of 20 tons concrete blocks on Bailey rafts to release them at selected points and block the tunnel finally.
UNQUOTE
Regards,
Col Rajan,
Bangalore, 9448024377
OFFICE OF THE PCDA (PENSIONS), DRAUPADI GHAT ALLAHABAD dt 26 May 2009 for Ltcols/cdrs/wgcdr's
REGISTERED
MOST IMPORTANT CIRCULAR
OFFICE OF THE PCDA (PENSIONS), DRAUPADI GHAT ALLAHABAD
Circular No.412. Dated: 26.05.2009.
To,
01. The Chief Accountant, RBI, Deptt. of Govt. Bank Account Central
Office,C-7 IInd Floor Bandre Kurla Complex, P.B. No. 8143 Bandre
East, Mumbai-400051.
02. All CMDs of Public Sector Banks
03. CMD of ICICI Bank
04. CMD of IDBI Bank
05. CMD of Axis Bank
06. CMD of HDFC Bank
07. Military and Air Attache, Indian Embassy Kathmandu Nepal.
08. The Defence Pension Disbursing Officers.
09. The Treasury officers.
10. The Pay and Accounts Office.
11. Pay and Accounts Office, Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai.
12. The Post Master Kathua (J & K), Camp Bell Bay (Andaman & Nicobar)
Subject:- (i) Implementation of Government’s decision on the
recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission
Revision of Pension of Pre 2006 Military Nursing Service
(MNS) Officers retiree pensioners / Family Pensioners
(ii) Implementation of Government’s decision on the
recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay
Commission – Revision of Pension of Pre 2006
Armed Forces Pensioners / Family Pensioners.
Reference:-GOI, MOD letter No. No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D(Pen/Policy) dated 11.11.2008
and this Office Circulars No. 397 dated 18.11.2008, 398 dated
18.11.2008 No. 401 dated 18.12.2008 and No.403 dated 02.02.2009.
-----*-----*-----
(Available on the Website of this office www. pcdapension. nic.in)
MOD letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 20.05.2009 on the above
subject at serial No. (i) which is self explanatory is forwarded herewith for further
necessary action at your end. The table showing rates of minimum guaranteed
pension and ordinary family pension for Pre 01.01.2006, MNS retiree Officers
enclosed with the MOD letter dated 20.05.2009 may be treated as Annexure –II A toMOD letter dated 11.11.2008 circulated vide this office circular No. 397 dated
18.11.2008.
2. Annexure – II of the Ministry of Defence letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D
(Pen/Policy) dated 11.11.2008 which was modified/substituted vide Ministry of
Defence letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 11.12.2008 and No.
17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 20.01.2009 is further modified in respect of
Lieutenant Colonel (Substantive) / Lieutenant Colonel (Time Scale) and
equivalent ranks in Navy and Air Force only by enclosed Annexure II vide MOD
letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 21.05.2009(copy enclosed), which is
self explanatory.
3. All other subsidiary payment instructions will be the same as already
circulated vide this office circulars quoted under reference.
4. This circular has been uploaded on PCDA (P) website
www.pcdapension.nic.in for disseminated across the defence pensioners and
PDAs.
No. Grants/Tech/0165-XII (R K SAROJ)
Dated:26.05.2009 Dy. C.D.A. (P)
-3-
Copy to:
1. The Dy. Secretary, Govt. of India, Ministry of PPG & P (Deptt. of P & PW),
Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi.
2. Director (Pensions), Govt. of India, Ministry of Defence D(Pen/Sers), Sena
Bhawan, Wing ‘A’ New Delhi.
3. Army HQrs AG’s Branch, PS-4(b) DHQ, PO New Delhi – 110011.
4. AHQ GS Branch, TA Directorate, DHQ PO New Delhi – 110011.
5. Naval HQrs, PP & A, DHQ PO New Delhi.
6. DPA, Vayu Bhawan, New Delhi – 11.
7. Air HQrs Ad PP & P – 3, West Block-VI, R. K. Puram, New Delhi –
110066.
8. Shri A. K. JENA, IDAS, Sr. Dy. CGDA(AT-II), O/O the CGDA, West Block-
V, R. K. Puram, New Delhi – 110066.
9. PCDA (Navy) No.-1, Cooperage Road, Mumbai – 400039.
10. CDA (AF), West Block-V, R. K. Puram, New Delhi – 110066.
11. JCDA (AF) Subroto Park, New Delhi – 110010.
12. Director of Audit, Defence Service, New Delhi
13. All Record Offices/Regiment. Corp.
14. Bureau of Sailors, Cheetah Camp, Mumbai.
15. Air Force Record, Dhaula Kunwa, Delhi Cantt.
16. All Addl CsDA/Jt. CsDA in Main Office.
17. All GOs in Main Office.
18. The OI/C, G-1(M), AT(ORs)-Tech. & G-1/Civil (Tech.)
19. All SAOs/AOs/AAOs/SOs(A) in Gts/Ors Complex.
20. The OI/C, EDP Manual.
21. The OI/C, EDP Centre.
22. Defence Pension Liaison Cell.
23. All Sections in Main Office.
24. Spare copies in file No. Gts/Tech/0148, 148, 0162 & 0158
25. OIC,G -2 Section
26. OI/C, G - 3 Section.
27. OI/C, G - 4 Section.
28. OI/C O & M Cell
29. OI/C Complaint Cell
30. The OI/C, Reception Centre
31. The OI/C, EDP Centre (Website) For putting this on the Website.
32. The OI/C, DPTI Cell
33. Spare
(R. K. SAROJ)
Dy. C.D.A. (P)
MOST IMPORTANT CIRCULAR
OFFICE OF THE PCDA (PENSIONS), DRAUPADI GHAT ALLAHABAD
Circular No.412. Dated: 26.05.2009.
To,
01. The Chief Accountant, RBI, Deptt. of Govt. Bank Account Central
Office,C-7 IInd Floor Bandre Kurla Complex, P.B. No. 8143 Bandre
East, Mumbai-400051.
02. All CMDs of Public Sector Banks
03. CMD of ICICI Bank
04. CMD of IDBI Bank
05. CMD of Axis Bank
06. CMD of HDFC Bank
07. Military and Air Attache, Indian Embassy Kathmandu Nepal.
08. The Defence Pension Disbursing Officers.
09. The Treasury officers.
10. The Pay and Accounts Office.
11. Pay and Accounts Office, Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai.
12. The Post Master Kathua (J & K), Camp Bell Bay (Andaman & Nicobar)
Subject:- (i) Implementation of Government’s decision on the
recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay Commission
Revision of Pension of Pre 2006 Military Nursing Service
(MNS) Officers retiree pensioners / Family Pensioners
(ii) Implementation of Government’s decision on the
recommendations of the Sixth Central Pay
Commission – Revision of Pension of Pre 2006
Armed Forces Pensioners / Family Pensioners.
Reference:-GOI, MOD letter No. No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D(Pen/Policy) dated 11.11.2008
and this Office Circulars No. 397 dated 18.11.2008, 398 dated
18.11.2008 No. 401 dated 18.12.2008 and No.403 dated 02.02.2009.
-----*-----*-----
(Available on the Website of this office www. pcdapension. nic.in)
MOD letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 20.05.2009 on the above
subject at serial No. (i) which is self explanatory is forwarded herewith for further
necessary action at your end. The table showing rates of minimum guaranteed
pension and ordinary family pension for Pre 01.01.2006, MNS retiree Officers
enclosed with the MOD letter dated 20.05.2009 may be treated as Annexure –II A toMOD letter dated 11.11.2008 circulated vide this office circular No. 397 dated
18.11.2008.
2. Annexure – II of the Ministry of Defence letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D
(Pen/Policy) dated 11.11.2008 which was modified/substituted vide Ministry of
Defence letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 11.12.2008 and No.
17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 20.01.2009 is further modified in respect of
Lieutenant Colonel (Substantive) / Lieutenant Colonel (Time Scale) and
equivalent ranks in Navy and Air Force only by enclosed Annexure II vide MOD
letter No. 17(4)/2008(1)/D (Pen/Policy) dated 21.05.2009(copy enclosed), which is
self explanatory.
3. All other subsidiary payment instructions will be the same as already
circulated vide this office circulars quoted under reference.
4. This circular has been uploaded on PCDA (P) website
www.pcdapension.nic.in for disseminated across the defence pensioners and
PDAs.
No. Grants/Tech/0165-XII (R K SAROJ)
Dated:26.05.2009 Dy. C.D.A. (P)
-3-
Copy to:
1. The Dy. Secretary, Govt. of India, Ministry of PPG & P (Deptt. of P & PW),
Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi.
2. Director (Pensions), Govt. of India, Ministry of Defence D(Pen/Sers), Sena
Bhawan, Wing ‘A’ New Delhi.
3. Army HQrs AG’s Branch, PS-4(b) DHQ, PO New Delhi – 110011.
4. AHQ GS Branch, TA Directorate, DHQ PO New Delhi – 110011.
5. Naval HQrs, PP & A, DHQ PO New Delhi.
6. DPA, Vayu Bhawan, New Delhi – 11.
7. Air HQrs Ad PP & P – 3, West Block-VI, R. K. Puram, New Delhi –
110066.
8. Shri A. K. JENA, IDAS, Sr. Dy. CGDA(AT-II), O/O the CGDA, West Block-
V, R. K. Puram, New Delhi – 110066.
9. PCDA (Navy) No.-1, Cooperage Road, Mumbai – 400039.
10. CDA (AF), West Block-V, R. K. Puram, New Delhi – 110066.
11. JCDA (AF) Subroto Park, New Delhi – 110010.
12. Director of Audit, Defence Service, New Delhi
13. All Record Offices/Regiment. Corp.
14. Bureau of Sailors, Cheetah Camp, Mumbai.
15. Air Force Record, Dhaula Kunwa, Delhi Cantt.
16. All Addl CsDA/Jt. CsDA in Main Office.
17. All GOs in Main Office.
18. The OI/C, G-1(M), AT(ORs)-Tech. & G-1/Civil (Tech.)
19. All SAOs/AOs/AAOs/SOs(A) in Gts/Ors Complex.
20. The OI/C, EDP Manual.
21. The OI/C, EDP Centre.
22. Defence Pension Liaison Cell.
23. All Sections in Main Office.
24. Spare copies in file No. Gts/Tech/0148, 148, 0162 & 0158
25. OIC,G -2 Section
26. OI/C, G - 3 Section.
27. OI/C, G - 4 Section.
28. OI/C O & M Cell
29. OI/C Complaint Cell
30. The OI/C, Reception Centre
31. The OI/C, EDP Centre (Website) For putting this on the Website.
32. The OI/C, DPTI Cell
33. Spare
(R. K. SAROJ)
Dy. C.D.A. (P)
Mohali grievnce cell mohali by Col SS Sohi
Mohali Grievance Cell set up by Col SS Sohi doing wonders for ESM Welfare
Achievements by Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, Mohali
Posted by SIGNAL on Tuesday, June 02, 2009 Links to this post
Labels: Grievances of ESM, One- Rank One- Pension for All Ranks, Pension Parity, Rank and Honour, Welfare Commission, Welfare Ex- Servicemen
Monday, June 1, 2009
DGR: Is it welfare oriented?
Dear Veterans,
I have been informed by Gen Kadyan that the case of Capt AK Singh has been taken care of. However, such news are disturbing. We in the Armed Forces have mastered one trait- cutting our own feet. We also like to grope in the dark. What we need is some concrete steps. At the outset, we as a community should develop a sorority and alliance. We should learn to fraternise and hold each other's hand and express our concern. If there is any black sheep we should form an alliance to shun it.
As of today, the biggest issue is of resettlement of ESM. The biggest farce is DGR where corruption is at its peak. I suggest IESM to take up this matter with MoD and ensure transparency in the system.
Two glaring irregularities introduced by DGR are:
Entrance Test for Security Agency. Does it mean that Armed Forces Officers are not fit for running a security agency when any Tom, Dick & Harry in the civil street starts one on his own?
Job Placement. Why should DGR forward names? Let it be an open call. They should only advertise and let ESM know of various openings. Is it a way to mint money by DGR officers? It is an open secret now. Only a handful of corrupt officers know this ball game and making hay while sun shines. Some middlemen, in connivance with DGR have flourished. I know a few.
I can give you concrete irregularity proof happening in CG with DGR support. Can IESM take up such issue? Somehow ESM are getting to feel that IESM is only working towards OROP. We must deviate and include some more welfare activity in our agenda. We will have more ESM joining in near future.
Jai Hind
Col Siddhartha Bose
State Convener IESM
Achievements by Ex-Servicemen Grievances Cell, Mohali
Posted by SIGNAL on Tuesday, June 02, 2009 Links to this post
Labels: Grievances of ESM, One- Rank One- Pension for All Ranks, Pension Parity, Rank and Honour, Welfare Commission, Welfare Ex- Servicemen
Monday, June 1, 2009
DGR: Is it welfare oriented?
Dear Veterans,
I have been informed by Gen Kadyan that the case of Capt AK Singh has been taken care of. However, such news are disturbing. We in the Armed Forces have mastered one trait- cutting our own feet. We also like to grope in the dark. What we need is some concrete steps. At the outset, we as a community should develop a sorority and alliance. We should learn to fraternise and hold each other's hand and express our concern. If there is any black sheep we should form an alliance to shun it.
As of today, the biggest issue is of resettlement of ESM. The biggest farce is DGR where corruption is at its peak. I suggest IESM to take up this matter with MoD and ensure transparency in the system.
Two glaring irregularities introduced by DGR are:
Entrance Test for Security Agency. Does it mean that Armed Forces Officers are not fit for running a security agency when any Tom, Dick & Harry in the civil street starts one on his own?
Job Placement. Why should DGR forward names? Let it be an open call. They should only advertise and let ESM know of various openings. Is it a way to mint money by DGR officers? It is an open secret now. Only a handful of corrupt officers know this ball game and making hay while sun shines. Some middlemen, in connivance with DGR have flourished. I know a few.
I can give you concrete irregularity proof happening in CG with DGR support. Can IESM take up such issue? Somehow ESM are getting to feel that IESM is only working towards OROP. We must deviate and include some more welfare activity in our agenda. We will have more ESM joining in near future.
Jai Hind
Col Siddhartha Bose
State Convener IESM
Military Pension: Comparison with other countries (OROP)
Dear Friend,
I am tempted to forward a mail which I sent to Thomas, who has been following the compensation package in the USA very closely (He has many friends and relatives in the US, and has attended a long course with their Air Force) and also his reply thereto.
I hold the view, that complete 'justice' for our ESM is contingent on our national ability to revise the terms of engagement of soldiers. Now, it is easy to dismiss this as a responsibility of the Government of India. Indeed, they have the ultimate power, and therefore the responsibility. But I suspect our own headquarters has not done enough to pursue this issue. Papers have been written at various levels. But no one has been able to evolve a consensus on this contentious issue even within the Army HQ, leave alone the polity of our land.
Sometimes, I feel that this should be a primary issue of the ESM organizations. The 6th Pay Commission made specific recommendations. But they say, "Man proposes, God disposes" In this case the 'proposal' of the Pay Panel has been summarily rejected by the MHA and MoD has caved in without as much as a whimper.
I am a die hard optimist. I have full faith in the ability of the IESM to fight it out. And yet, I am not too sure that the OROP will come through. Not during the foreseeable future any way. And what will come in its way is our numbers. They are too large.
To provide medical care for two million ESM with at least four million dependants is a daunting task. A visit to an ECHS clinic can be a harrowing experience.
May the Lord guide us on the righteous path.
Maj Gen Surjit Singh (Retd)
Dear Surjit,
Thanks. Let me answer your points.
Q. "Every other country has OROP."
A. Thanks. No other country discriminates among pensioners on the basis of date of retirement.
Q. "But do tell me, which other country gives pension to all (or nearly all) soldiers who enlist?"
A. None at all. It shows how poorly we manage our human resources.
Q. "Also, is there any other country which retires its soldiers at the age of 35, with pension?"
A. Again, none at all. But sir, 23 years ago, when you were in the IV Pay Commission I sent you a note arguing for lateral transfer of soldiers from the arms to the services. What is the sense of approaching the Tatas, Birlas and Ambanis for crumbs from their table when we don't make use of the 5 lakh civilian jobs in the defence sector and an equal number of services vacancies within the armed forces? In my note of 1986 I had predicted that the government's pension bill will eventually exceed its salary bill. I think that has already happened for the Defence forces. Defence HQ do not feel the pinch because, under our opaque accounting system, the Defence pension bill is buried under a different ministry. Since pension is deferred wages the Defence pension bill should be brought back under the Defence budget. That will impose greater discipline and a greater sense of responsibility. We will not then send out jawans on retirement at age 35 with pension. We will absorb them in the services and Defence PSUs. Long time ago, the combatant jawan was semi-literate and usually from a farming background. Today the minimum entry level is matriculate. So the retiring jawan is far more employable. We need to go back to the old system of 9 years colour service followed by lateral entry to the services, defence PSUs and defence civilian jobs. Direct entry to the services should be stopped.
Q. "The total number of military personnel in all the five services of the USA is over two million. But the number of their pensioners (as per my information) is no more than half a million."
A. Quite right. But that is because the United States has a national contributory pension system called Social Security. Defence personnel are part of this system, whether in uniform or out of it. The Defence forces only give a Disability Pension, where applicable.
Q. "Comparison with other countries is not a plank on which this case can be based. At least that can not be the only basis."
A. Agreed that it is not the only basis. What we are asking for is pension equal to that of current retirees. Every other country gives this.
Joseph Thomas
I am tempted to forward a mail which I sent to Thomas, who has been following the compensation package in the USA very closely (He has many friends and relatives in the US, and has attended a long course with their Air Force) and also his reply thereto.
I hold the view, that complete 'justice' for our ESM is contingent on our national ability to revise the terms of engagement of soldiers. Now, it is easy to dismiss this as a responsibility of the Government of India. Indeed, they have the ultimate power, and therefore the responsibility. But I suspect our own headquarters has not done enough to pursue this issue. Papers have been written at various levels. But no one has been able to evolve a consensus on this contentious issue even within the Army HQ, leave alone the polity of our land.
Sometimes, I feel that this should be a primary issue of the ESM organizations. The 6th Pay Commission made specific recommendations. But they say, "Man proposes, God disposes" In this case the 'proposal' of the Pay Panel has been summarily rejected by the MHA and MoD has caved in without as much as a whimper.
I am a die hard optimist. I have full faith in the ability of the IESM to fight it out. And yet, I am not too sure that the OROP will come through. Not during the foreseeable future any way. And what will come in its way is our numbers. They are too large.
To provide medical care for two million ESM with at least four million dependants is a daunting task. A visit to an ECHS clinic can be a harrowing experience.
May the Lord guide us on the righteous path.
Maj Gen Surjit Singh (Retd)
Dear Surjit,
Thanks. Let me answer your points.
Q. "Every other country has OROP."
A. Thanks. No other country discriminates among pensioners on the basis of date of retirement.
Q. "But do tell me, which other country gives pension to all (or nearly all) soldiers who enlist?"
A. None at all. It shows how poorly we manage our human resources.
Q. "Also, is there any other country which retires its soldiers at the age of 35, with pension?"
A. Again, none at all. But sir, 23 years ago, when you were in the IV Pay Commission I sent you a note arguing for lateral transfer of soldiers from the arms to the services. What is the sense of approaching the Tatas, Birlas and Ambanis for crumbs from their table when we don't make use of the 5 lakh civilian jobs in the defence sector and an equal number of services vacancies within the armed forces? In my note of 1986 I had predicted that the government's pension bill will eventually exceed its salary bill. I think that has already happened for the Defence forces. Defence HQ do not feel the pinch because, under our opaque accounting system, the Defence pension bill is buried under a different ministry. Since pension is deferred wages the Defence pension bill should be brought back under the Defence budget. That will impose greater discipline and a greater sense of responsibility. We will not then send out jawans on retirement at age 35 with pension. We will absorb them in the services and Defence PSUs. Long time ago, the combatant jawan was semi-literate and usually from a farming background. Today the minimum entry level is matriculate. So the retiring jawan is far more employable. We need to go back to the old system of 9 years colour service followed by lateral entry to the services, defence PSUs and defence civilian jobs. Direct entry to the services should be stopped.
Q. "The total number of military personnel in all the five services of the USA is over two million. But the number of their pensioners (as per my information) is no more than half a million."
A. Quite right. But that is because the United States has a national contributory pension system called Social Security. Defence personnel are part of this system, whether in uniform or out of it. The Defence forces only give a Disability Pension, where applicable.
Q. "Comparison with other countries is not a plank on which this case can be based. At least that can not be the only basis."
A. Agreed that it is not the only basis. What we are asking for is pension equal to that of current retirees. Every other country gives this.
Joseph Thomas
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