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National Confederation of Officers Association (NCOA) write to Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL extending Solidarity and support for the Indefinite Hunger Fast from 08.03.2021 SNEA demanding Promotion of BSNL Executives w.e.f. 01.07.2018 through the Non-post based Time Bound Functional Promotion Policy approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018.

NCOA letter to CMD 

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Meeting with Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL:

GS, President and both AGSs had meeting with CMD/BSNL on 03.03.2021 and had discussions on the Hunger Fast from 08.03.2021 demanding Non-post based promotions from 01.07.2018 onwards and other important issues:

I. Hunger Fast from 08.03.2021 demanding Non-post based promotions from 01.07.2018.

Today, on 03.03.2021, we had a very fruitful discussion with CMD on the most important issue. We tried to clear the apprehensions of CMD on various aspects on implementation of the new promotion policy. We explained the status of implementation of the policy with reference to the main Telecom and Finance cadres.

1). On implementation of the new promotion policy w.e.f. 01.07.2018, status will be:

i) Today, the number of AGM/DEs will be about 2300 (promoted as SDE between 2004 & 2008), much less than the number of AGM/DE working today on Regular and LA basis. Similarly the number of CAOs will be less than 250 (even with 2009 batch AOs). In July 2021, number of AGM/DE will be about 4000 plus (all promoted as SDE in 2009 and corresponding LDCE). Next eligibility is in July, 2023 and then in 2027. All of them have put minimum 20 to 30 years of service (SCF: 25-30 yrs and LDCE: 20 yrs) by the time of AGM promotion.

Upto 2026, the number AGMs will be less than 4500, we explained.

ii) BSNL already utilising JTO and SDE equivalent Grades as interchangeable which is a provision in the new promotion policy. A new JTO will work in JTO, SDE and Sr SDE Grades, interchangeably for 15 years before their DE promotion. JTO plus SDE number will be around 19,500 now.

iii) A fair ratio will be maintained between JTO/SDE/Sr SDE --à AGM --à DGM.

2). Only new Executives can become AGM/CAO equivalent Grade in 15 years at the age of 40 to 45. Thereafter they are having another 15-20 years of service left and will get stagnated, which is the concern of management:

It will happen only from the year 2032 onwards, after 11 years from now, we explained. BSNL should be lead by its own Officers. This is possible only when the Executives entering at the age of 25-30 years as a Direct Recruit gets promotion to AGM/CAO Grades in 15 years, at the age of 40-45 years. Then only they are having further promotion avenues to DGM (E5) Grade at the age of 50 to 55 years, SG JAG Grade/ Jt GM  Grade at the age of 50-55 years, Addl GM/GM Grade and CGM Grade as per merit.

In other PSUs, Executives are reaching DGM Grade in 12 to 15 years, at the age of about 35 - 40 years through 3 to 4 Non-post based Time Bound Functional promotions and then moved upwards as Jt GM, Addl GM, GM and CGM etc and leading the company.

The chart explains the status:

Those entering as Executive from Non-Executive cadres through promotion quota (LICE), they will reach AGM/CAO Grade much later, we explained.

The question of continuing in the same AGM Grade for 15 to 20 years does not arise at all, we explained.

3). There is no financial implication involved on implementation of this policy as Executives are already reaching the scale as per the existing EPP itself. Rather there is saving for BSNL, we explained.

4). DPCs on post based promotions may take minimum 5 to 6 years due to Reservation issue:

i) Promotions made in 2018 in AO, CAO and DE cadres become provisional. Now Appeal is filed in High Court. It will take 5 to 6 years to complete the litigations in High Court and then in Hon SC. If the SC judgment is in favour of BSNL, it can proceed further but it will take minimum 5 to 6 years. If Hon SC dismisses the BSNL petition and agreeing to CAT orders, then no one can say when further promotion will take place as it is linked with Nagaraj Judgment and its implementation, we explained.

ii) For other cadres, including SDE(T), there is no stay on promotion. But promotion with reservation is stopped by the clarification issued by DoT and Law Ministry in October 2020.

iii) Since Govt policies on Reservation will be followed in the new Promotion Policy also as decided by the BSNL Board, Reservation will automatically taken care in the new Policy.

In the light of the discussions, it seems that the apprehension of CMD on implementation of the new promotion policy is slowly getting cleared. CMD assured to examine the facts submitted by us at the earliest. Further in view of the discussions, CMD made an impassionate appeal to withdraw the Indefinite Hunger Fast from 08.03.2021.

II. Launching of 4G services:

We informed CMD about the discussions with the senior Officers of DOT (Secretary, Addl Secretary, Member(T), Member(F), Member(S)) on the 4G issue. Without 4G services, BSNL Revival is not at all possible and the revenue cannot be increased. The employees can contribute only after the launching of 4G services.

CMD informed that there is no headway on the matter. Discussions are going on at the highest level of PMO, how the deadlock can be broken. BSNL is trying to impress upon all that the new process will take long period to take off. Now DoT almost convinced on the matter. CMD also agreed to our view point that the new tender process through POC route will take atleast 2 years for roll out.

On the specific issue of upgradation and launching of services, there is no further progress, CMD informed.

The various letters written by us to various authorities on the issue, including Hon Minister is getting good response, mounting pressure on the Govt as it is getting the support of public and media attention. Discussions are going on at highest level, at PMO to find solution to BSNL 4G issue.

III. OF connectivity from RailTel:

We appreciated the initiative of management which will give stability to the media connectivity to Eastern Region especially NE Region. The connectivity doubled from Guwahati and Kolkatta towards Chennai.

PGCIL hiked the Tariff and abruptly disconnected BSNL connectivity. Thereafter management acted swiftly and got MOU signed with RailTel on almost 1/3^rd rate.

Once local connectivity is established, BSNL can go for tender in the future for such connectivity, CMD informed.

IV. Transfer of Accounts Personal:

We explained that transfer of Accounts Personal are pending for the last two quarters and it should be cleared at the earliest as in other wings. The matter we discussed with Director (Fin) also on 02.03.2021. CMD assured to give necessary instructions.

V. Rule 9 Temporary Transfer:

We requested to clear the deadlock on Temporary Transfer. Many genuine cases including medical cases are pending for approval. CMD informed that once Executives are going on Temp transfer, they are not going back which creates operational issues and unwanted interference from various quarters.

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Final hearing on the court case for CPSU Cadre Hierarchy promotion (Non-post based Time Bound Functional promotion) through BEPPARR 2017 approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018.

The case filed by SNEA & Others at Hon CAT, Chandigarh for Non-post based Time Bound Functional promotion through BEPPARR 2017 for all the eligible Executives on Regular basis came up for final hearing yesterday, 01.03.2021. The case was listed for final hearing. However, before arguments starts, BSNL counsel informed the Hon Court that BSNL filed an MA along with counter to the rejoinder filed by SNEA. BSNL filed the counter in the last minute to the rejoinder filed by us on 26.10.2020. Since the documents are submitted late by BSNL Counsel, it could not reach the bench by the time of hearing. These documents are to be accepted by the Hon Court before final hearing.

After preliminary pleadings on the urgency of the matter, Hon Court gave the earliest available date, 30.03.2021 for final hearing of the case. 

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Annual General Body meeting of SNEA, Kannur Branch

held at Telephone Bhavan Conference Hall, Kannur on 3/3/2021

Com Deepak CK BS welcomed the gathering and Com Kishore, JTO NQM Presided over the function. Com Rajesh Manchan CHQ Advisor, Com Jithesh CS, Com Deepak DS, Com Manoj DP and Com Vinod DT addressed the meeting. The leaders urged up on the importance of the strike and promotion, where management is not ready to promote executives even in the reduced  vaccancies after restructuring. Meeting had a fruitful interaction about the agitation programs and participation. Meeting elected the following as new office bearers of Kannur Branch.

President: Pramodan ,JTO Electrical
Vice president: Bhanumathi,JTO Marketing
Secretary: Kishor Krishnan ,JTO NQM

Assistant Secretary: Rajesh,JTO TIM
Treasurer: Praveen ,JTO Electrical
Organising Secretaries :
1- Ranjith K P,JTO FM Kannur
2- Bijesh ,SDE OD Kannur
3- Nithin Kumar ,JTO TIM Kannur

Executive committee members :
1- Deepak CK ,JTO CAF KNR
2- Dileep K,JTO AJK
3- Ajitha ,SDE STR KNR
4- Joy,SDE Electrical KNR
5- Manoj P,SDE Civil KNR

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General Body meeting of Pala Branch, SNEA Kottayam was held at the Telephone Exchange Pala in the forenoon of 25/02/2021

 

District President Kottayam Com. Thomas Sebastian presided over the meeting. District Secretary Com. Biju Joseph Pawath welcomed all to the meeting. District Treasurer Com Anish James also attended the function. Several comrades from Pala, Kanjirapally and adjoining areas attended the meeting.

Circle Secretary Com. Jithesh K.P. inaugurated the function and explained regarding the upcoming agitation programs. Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer.S, CWC Member Com. Vimal Raghunath and Assistant Circle Secretary Com. Vivek G. addressed the function.

The meeting concluded with the Vote of thanks by. Babychan Michael, Branch  Secretary Kanjirapally

View more Photos

General Body meeting of SNEA Kottayam was held at the Conference hall of PGM Office Kottayam on 25/02/2021

 

District President Kottayam Com. Thomas Sebastian, presided over the meeting. District Secretary Com. Biju Joseph Pawath welcomed all to the meeting. District Treasurer Com Anish James also attended the function. Several comrades from Kottayam, Changanasseri and adjoining areas attended the meeting.

Circle Secretary Com. Jithesh K.P. inaugurated the function and explained regarding the upcoming agitation programs, medical insurance scheme and other burning issues.

CWC Member Com. Vimal Raghunath explained with facts and figures the various hurdles faced by present SCF DPC promotion scheme and the need to switch over to CPSU CH/ BEPPARR 2017. Assistant Circle Secretary Com. Vivek G. addressed the function and spoke about the present financial situation of the company, recent developments in the 22820 case filing etc. Circle Treasurer Com. Suneer S., Area Secretary Central Com. Maneesh K.P, District Secretary Circle Office Com.Aslesh.S.S, Ex District Secretary Com.Vipin.K etc also addressed the function.

The meeting concluded with the Vote of thanks by Com. Sudeesh A.N., CEC Member KTM.

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Congratulations to the newly elected District Office Bearers of SNEA Pathanamthitta

Annual General Body Meeting of SNEA Pathanamthitta was conducted on 24-02-2021 at the Conference Hall of GM Office PTA. Circle Secretary Com.Jithesh K.P., Circle Treasurer Com.Suneer S., ACS Com.Vivek G., CWC Member Com.Vimal Raghunath, CWC Member Com.Sureshkumar, Area Secretary Central Com.Maneesh.K.P., District Secretary Circle Office Com.Aslesh S.S., District Secretary Kottayam Com.Biju Pawath etc attended the AGB. Circle President Com. George Varghese and several others joined the meeting via online mode.

District President Com. Robin Kurien Joseph, presided over the meeting. District Secretary Com. Manoj N. welcomed all to the meeting and presented the Secretary’s report and audited accounts. Circle Secretary Com. Jithesh K.P. inaugurated the function and delivered the felicitation address to the retiring/retired comrades, Com Shanthamani G, JTO Kadampanad & Com. Basheer Khan P.S. JTO Panthalam. CS honoured their long service to BSNL by presenting the Mementos to them. Circle President Com. George Varghese also spoke about Com. Basheer Khan’s long relationship with our association as Branch Secretary Pathanamthitta and in other capacities. DS Com. Manoj enlightened everyone that even after officially retiring around ten months ago, Com. Basheer Khan never fails to visit & help out in his Customer Service Center everyday and Com. Shanthamani never misses to hoist the National flag during Independence day & Republic day. Both of these sincere comrades were harassed and unnecessarily transferred away from Pathanamthitta during the infamous RAO era.

Some of our veteran leaders of Pathanamthitta Com. G Sivaraman Nair Sir, Com. K. John sir, were also present in the function and delivered felicitation address. Circle Secretary Com. Jithesh K.P. also remembered about the outgoing District Secretary Com. Manoj N. and his organizational skills.

The meeting concluded with the Vote of thanks by Com. Shyam Mohan.

The following office bearers were unanimously elected in the AGB:

President:- Com. Robin Kurien Joseph, AGM BSS Thiruvalla

Vice President:- Com. Pinky S John, DET, Pathanamthitta

Secretary:- Com. Shyam Mohan SDE EB, Thiruvalla

Treasurer:- Com. Resmi G L, SDE Plg

Asst. Secretary:-

Com. Lithin Thomas JTO Mktg Thiruvalla ,

Com. Rony Mathew Philip JTO Vennikulam

CEC Member:- Com. Marella Sandeep JTO Pallikkal

Organising Secretary:-

Com. Mahesh JTO BSS

Com. Srikanth, JTO Computer

Executive Committee Members:-

Com. Ragesh Krishna, JTO STR

Com. Suresh Kumar E K, SDE Civil

Com. Harikumaran Nair, JTO Ezhamkulam

Com. Biju T, JTO Vadasserikkara

Com. Deepthi Krishna, AO, Thiruvalla

Com. Deepu Jayakumar, JTO EB

Com. Sreejith S, JTO, Elanthoor

Auditor:- Com. Moncy Thomas, DET Thiruvalla

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Indefinite Hunger Fast from 08.03.2021:

REGULAR Promotion to all eligible Executives w.e.f. 01.07.2018

Our Demands:

1. Regular Promotions through the Non-post based Time Bound Functional Promotion Policy, BSNL Executives Promotion Policy Amendment and Recruitment Rules (BEPPARR) 2017, approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, effectively from 01.07.2018.

2. Regular Promotion upto DGM Grade instead of LA promotion and open the path for promotion to higher posts.

a) SSA/local meeting may be held and explain the compelling reasons for going for Indefinite Hunger Fast:

b) Meet all CGMS and BA/SSA Heads and submit the copy of the Notice issued on 05.11.2020 and explain the compulsions to go for agitations and seek their intervention.

c) Promotion is for all the Executives. Support of all the Executives may be sought for the agitation by meeting them individually.

Make all out preparations by meeting every Executives to make the Indefinite Hunger Fast a big success till management listening to our demands.

Appeal to all Executives

 

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CS writes to CGMT reg Surrendering 1800 MHz GSM spectrum in Kerala Circle, consequences including operational issues and service degradation, our request.

View Letter

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CS writes to CGMT reg exploring Business opportunity - Work Near Home facilities

View Letter  || Media News

Kerala government is considering work-near-home (WNH) facilities for IT firms to provide office arrangements within the neighbourhood of employees, so that office work flows can be maximized with minimum risk to the employee's health.
The net leasing or absorption of office space might fall to 25 million sq ft this year across eight major cities. The requisites are vacant building space, internet connectivity, power supply and easy accessibility, which is perfectly suited to our resources.

This is a rare and golden opportunity for earning a sizeable business in EB as well as real estate of BSNL Kerala Circle.  We requested CGMT for his personal attention to take up the matter with Government of Kerala at the earliest.

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GS writes to Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL

Non-launching of 4G Services by BSNL even after 1 year 3 months really shaking BSNL. BSNL missed precious 5 months after the Cabinet approval on 23.10.2019. BSNL Revival is fully depends on 4G services and then only Revival will pick up momentum. BSNL should avail the allotted 4G spectrum and provide 4G or 3G services as per the availability of equipments for better speed and coverage and earn revenue. Thousands of Crores spend in Phase VIII tender for 4G equipments should not become waste.

Instead of focusing to upgrade existing network to 4G by spending hardly 2500 Crores, BSNL focused on new tender worth 9000 Crores for purchasing and deploying new equipments! Net result is that BSNL Revival taken back seat and poor employees not getting even their salary in time.

It is a known fact that evenif the POC is successful, the new tender may take atleast 2 to 3 years to fully roll out and launch 4G services by completing the formality. In another 2 to 3 years, other operators will launch 5G services. The fresh expenditure on 4G will become a waste, in addition to the expenditure incurred in Phase VIII tender.

It is high time for BSNL management to look for all other alternatives to utilize the available network and the Govt allotted 4G spectrum to provide data services with maximum speed and better coverage. Parallel to the POC, earnest efforts required for procuring the equipment from M/s Nokia through Add on order. Eventhough the time frame for placing Add on order is over, management should adopt some unorthodox methods to negotiate with the vendor and place Add on order. Otherwise, as everyone knows, BSNL revival will become a nightmare, if management is waiting for the POC route and the new tender for 4G roll out.

GS letter to CMD on 4G services

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INDEFINITE HUNGER FAST from 15.02.2021 postponed to 08.03.2021

GS writes to Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL

Postponement of “INDEFINITE HUNGER FAST at BSNLCO and Circle HQs” from 15.02.2021 onwards to 08.03.2021 onwards demanding promotions upto AGM equivalent Grades in all the streams w.e.f. 01.07.2018 through the new promotion policy, BSNL Executive Promotion Policy Amendment & Recruitment Rules, 2017 (BEPPARR - 2017) approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, having NO financial burden on BSNL.

Dear comrades,

During the intervening period, all efforts should be made to meet each and every Executive (irrespective of Assn) and explain the developments going on regarding promotions: i) promotions are due from 01.07.2018 onwards and DPC promotion will be possible only from a prospective date, ii) hurdles on conduction of DPC due to Reservation issue, iii) Restg and consequent post reduction, iv) hurdles on conduction of DPC for promotion to AO, CAO and DE cadres as the promotion made in June 2018 become provisional, v) there is no financial implications in giving the promotions etc. Conduct SSA/Branch meetings as much possible and involve all.

A common write up to all the Executives prepared and circulated in the group. Make sufficient copies and distribute to all the Executives.

Write to all the CSs and SSA Secretaries of AIGETOA and AIBSNLEA requesting to support and join the agitation.

Meet all CGMS and SSA Heads and submit the copy of the Notice/memorandum and explain the compulsions to go for agitations.

Initially it will be Relay Hunger Fast and it will be converted into Indefinite Hunger Fast from 15.03.2021 onwards.

During the 1st week from 08.03.2021 to 12.03.2021, we will make an appeal to all the Executives to perform duty by skipping the Lunch in support of the agitation.

Lunch Hour demonstration will be held on 08.03.2021, 10.03.2021 and 12.03.2021 at Circle and SSA HQs in support of the agitation.

From 15.03.2021 onwards, agitation will be intensified. INDEFINITE HUNGER FAST will be started from 15.03.2021.

Accommodation will be arranged by CHQ/Delhi Comrades at New Delhi.

GS letter to CMD

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CS writes to CGMT regarding Implementation of long stay and Posting of officers to shortage BAs – 

1. case of service rendered in Wayanad district under Kozhikode BA, 

2. Preparation of long stay list, combined for JTO and SDE

View Letter

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Formal meeting with Smt Anita Praveen, Addl Secretary/DoT on 27.01.2021

GS, President and AGS met Addl Secretary, DoT on 27.01.2021 and held discussions on the following points, submitted in advance in our letter dated 14.01.2021.

1. Launching of 4G Services in BSNL by Upgradation of existing network to 4G.

2. Regular Promotion to BSNL Executives through the Non –post based Time Bound Functional Promotion Policy approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, based on the Terms and Condition for absorption into BSNL. 90% to 98% of the positions in strategic cadres are vacant after the VRS.

3. Regular promotion instead of Looking after arrangement in BSNL for the BSNL Executives.

4. Very slow pace of Restructuring in BSNL. Abnormal delay in re-deployment of Officers as Circle and BA heads on need basis hampering the BSNL business and Revival process.

5. Salary payment on last working Day of each month as revenue collection is about 1400 Cr per month and the salary is about 425 Cr.

During discussion, AST was very keen on BSNL Revival and Govt support to BSNL. Other issues like progress in Land monetization also come up for discussion. On standard pay scales and 3^rd PRC, AST advised us to wait for the improvement in the revenue so that issues having financial implications can be discussed and resolved.

1. We explained that BSNL made its 4G network ready by 2018 through Phase VIII tender by spending about 6000 Cr and waiting for 4G spectrum but not able to launch the services now, even after spectrum allotment. On upgradation of existing 4G network and launching 4 G services, Addl Secretary informed that it is well within BSNL and BSNL can take the decision. 

BSNL can go ahead with upgradation and start services. On upgradation of ZTE equipments, AST informed that, for that the relaxation has to be given by Home Ministry. Before the Govt decision in April, BSNL got more than 5 months to upgrade the network and launch 4G services after the Cabinet decision. There was no restriction during that time. Govt committed to allotment of 4G spectrum and 4G launching is to be done by BSNL management.  

2. Regular Promotion to BSNL Executives through the Non –post based Time Bound Functional Promotion Policy approved by the BSNL Board on 28.05.2018, based on the Terms and Condition for absorption into BSNL. 90% to 98% of the positions in strategic cadres are vacant after the VRS.

3. Regular promotion instead of Looking After arrangement in BSNL for the BSNL Executives.

On points 2 and 3, we explained the Hon PCAT order of 2002 and 2010, the terms and condition for absorption in which Time Bound promotions upto SG JAG Grade is assured, BSNL Board decision dated 28.05.2018 approving Time Bound promotions upto AGM Grade, reference to DoT and the stand taken by BSNL that BSNL is waiting for the reply from DoT. There is no financial implication in giving promotions to BSNL Executives, we explained. BSNL is giving higher pay but not giving Regular promotions, blocking the career progression we explained. BSNL management intentionally not giving promotion to its executives. AST surprised that if BSNL is not having any financial implications, what is the problem in giving Regular promotions?

On reply from DoT to BSNL, AST assured that it will be examined and necessary action will be taken.

4. Very slow pace of Restructuring in BSNL. Abnormal delay in re-deployment of Officers as Circle and BA heads on need basis hampering the BSNL business and Revival process.

We explained that many big BAs having more than 50 to 100 Cr revenue is headless for years together and it is severely affecting the business prospects. On the other hand, many Officers are posted at same place without any justification at all. Even their redeployment not taking place as per company requirement. Abnormal delay in Restg, merger etc hampering the revival of BSNL. AST surprised to hear from us and told that BSNL management has to take care of those matters and DoT can only support BSNL.

5. Salary payment on last working Day of each month as revenue collection is about 1400 Cr per month and the salary is about 425 Cr.

We explained that salary is paid from the revenue generated by the employees and not by taking any loan from the banks. In order to motivate the employees, salary is to be paid on the last working day and it is very much possible just by re-scheduling other payments. It is really unfortunate that salary payment has not become regular even after 1 year of VRS and expenditure reduction by more than half. AST expressed hope that salary payment will be regularised soon.

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Promotion through BEPPARR 2017 (CPSU CH) and Post based Promotion through DPC:

A comparative Chart:

Comparative Chart:

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Group Term Insurance for BSNL Executives – Reminder for annual renewal of the scheme w e f 01-03-21 reg.   GTI Guide Lines

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Today, CPSU CH promotion case filed by SNEA and Others for non-post based Time Bound Functional Promotion for all the eligible Executives w. e. f. 01.07.2018 onwards through BEPPAAR 2017 was listed for hearing at Hon CAT, Chandigarh Bench. The competent authority, BSNL Board approved the new promotion policy on 28.05.2018, amending the EPP 2007 and BSNL MS RR 2009 and scrapping all the RRs of SDE/AO equivalent Grades on approval, we pleaded. The promotion is through Time Bound up gradation after every 5 years, upto AGM Grade in E4 scale. 

This promotion policy is framed as per the Terms and conditions for absorption in BSNL and Hon PCAT orders of 2002 and 2010 in this regard. So, management will not have any other option, other than implementing it. All the promotions after 01.07.2018 will become irrelevant and invalid on implementation of the policy w. e. f. 01.07.2018 as all those Executives will be getting promotion from 01.07.2018 onwards. We filed a Miscellaneous Application also, opposing LA promotion and demanding Regular promotion. 

The Division Bench of CAT Banglore was hearing the urgent cases of Chandigarh in the afternoon, online as DB was not sitting at Chandigarh. 

After preliminary hearing, the case posted to 01.03.2021 for detailed and final arguments.

Instead of supporting the management for delaying the promotions from the due date of 01.07.2018, all Associations should demand its implementation from 01.07.2018 itself. Management is cleverly using some Assns to deny our legitimate right for promotion, at least from 01.07.2018. Why Association is demanding promotion from a prospective date when the Executives are eligible for promotion from 01.07.2018, we are not able to understand.

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Transfer order of SDE (C), Shri K.A.Karunakaran modified from North East -1 to Lakshadweep islands under Kerala Circle. Due to our efforts, we could convince the BW unit, that Kerala is not an excess zone, but deficit one. Congrats all....!! Thanks to our beloved CGM Shri C.V.Vinod Sir and CE Shri Sathesh.R Sir.

View orders

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Last few days, we met all senior Officers of DoT including Secretary/DoT, Addl Secretary, Member(Fin), Member(Tech), Member(Services) and Jt Sec(Admn) and held discussions on various issues like launching of 4G services by upgradation of existing equipments procured by spending more than 5000 Crores, likely delay of 4G procurement atleast by two years through the new tender, BSNL Revival, demoralization of Executives as there is no career progression, Regular Salary payment in BSNL on the last working day of the month etc.

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GS writes to Shri Arvind Vadnerkar, DIR(HR), BSNL:

Posting of Office bearers of Executives’ Association as BA/Unit Head: If the BSNL order is followed in true spirit without discrimination among the Associations, large number of CGMs and BA Heads are to be shifted as they are Office bearers of one or the other Association.

The decision may be reviewed for maintaining the dignity of the Office of GMs and CGMs who holds BA and Circle Head post. Otherwise, all such postings of Association Office bearers to the post of BA and Circle Heads are to be reviewed irrespective of which Association they belongs.

GS letter to DIR(HR)  View Cor. Office Letter

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Hunger Fast for 5 Days from 04-08, January, 2021

Demanding Non-post based Time Bound Functional promotions w.e.f. 01.07.2018 through the new Promotion Policy, BSNL Executives Promotion Policy Amendment and Recruitment Rules (BEPPARR) 2017.

Congratulations to all the Comrades for making it a big success. It was a tough task to make the Hunger Fast success in the severe climatic conditions of Cold wave and rain at different parts of the country. That also when large number of our active comrades spearheading our agitations earlier were taken VRS.

This once again proved the strong commitment and firm determination of our comrades for non-post based promotion through BEPPARR 2017 from 01.07.2018 itself, with no compromise on the date of promotion. In many Circles, Executives from far off SSAs participated in the Hunger Fast on rotation and made it successful.

The game plan of the management to derail the new promotion policy by making continuous attempts for DPC for limited posts from a prospective date also exposed. It is another attempt by the management to deny promotions from 01.07.2018 onwards thereby deny 2 ½ years of service for all future promotions through promotions from a prospective date. Unfortunately some Executives are also fallen into this trap without knowing the real implications. One simple question, Are they against Time Bound Promotions in BSNL? If they are not siding with the management, they have to join hands with us and take the agitation to its logical conclusion.

It is a good beginning for the next Agitation of Indefinite Hunger Fast from 15.02.2021 onwards till our demands are met. All the Circles to conduct CEC and SSA level meetings at the earliest in the intervening period for making it a big success. Our conviction, commitment and dedication will lead to the success of the agitation and switching over to new promotion policy.

Day-1 : Com.Shafi, DT Trivandrum inaugurated the hunger fast at Circle office, Trivandrum

View more photos of Day-1

Day-2 : Com.Vivek.G, ACS inaugurated the hunger fast at Circle office, Trivandrum

View more photos of Day-2

Day-3 : Com.Jyothish, DS Thrissur inaugurated hunger fast at Circle office, Trivandrum

View more photos of Day-3

Day-4 : Com.Maneesh.K.P, Area Secretary Central inaugurated the hunger fast.

View more photos of Day-4

Day-5 : Com.Shiyas.A from Electrical wing inaugurated the hunger fast...

View more Photos of Day-5

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CS writes to CGMT reg Recovery of excess payment due to wrong/erroneous fixation- Case of Officiating JTOs

View Letter

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Fixation of pay on 2nd PRC implementation - case of officiating JTOs who got regular promotion during the period from 01.01.2007 to 07.05.2010

BSNL Corporate office has agreed to the request of Kerala Circle as a one time measure as a special case, to allow exercise of option under para 3.6 of Order No. 1-16/2010-PAT(BSNL) dated 07-05-2010 for fixation of pay under 2nd PRC in respect of officiating JTOs promoted as regular JTOs during the period from 01-01-2007 upto 07-05-2010.

All eligible JTOs in service/retired may be allowed to exercise option within 2 days of issue of this letter, On exercising option : 

1) The official will continue to draw pre-revised pay(i.e First PRC pay) w.e.f. 01-01-2007 till the date of Promotion.

2) On the date of promotion, Pay may be first fixed in the pre-revised JTO scale (9850-16400) and then refixed in the corresponding 2nd PRC pay scale i.e 16400-40500.

View Letter || Annexure

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Hunger Fast at Circle Office from 04.01.2021 to 08.01.2021 for Implementing the New Promotion Policy BEPPARR 2017 from 01.07.2018 as approved by the BSNL Board.

The Hunger Strike will be inaugurated by our Young Vibrant Leader Com. Shafi,  District Treasurer SNEA Trivandrum at 10 AM

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Hunger Fast at BSNLCO and Circle HQs

From 04-08 January, 2021

View Circle Notice || View CHQ Notice

OUR DEMANDS

Implement the New Promotion Policy BEPPARR 2017 from 01.07.2018 as approved by the BSNL Board.

Promotion for BSNL Executives as per the Terms and conditions for Absorption.

Honour the Assurances of Time Bound Promotions upto SG JAG Grade.

Time Bound Promotion after every 5 years as approved.

BSNL formed in 2000 but still working as Govt Dept, unlike the other CPSUs.

Abandon Govt structure and embrace the CPSU structure for promotions in BSNL.

Implement non-post based Time Bound promotions before Restructuring.

Change of Designation alongwith change of scale.

Promotions with Parity and Uniformity, without discrimination.

Past Service Weightage for future promotions.

Only Regular Promotion, NO Look After or Adhoc promotion.

Regular Promotion upto DGM Grade instead of LA arrangement.

No CPSU run by deputed management, BSNL should stop deputation.

BSNL should be lead by BSNL Officers as in other CPSUs.

Open Promotion to Higher Posts for BSNL Executives.

Stop deputation and promote BSNL Own Executives.

Allow career growth for young Executives.

Provide fast track promotion for the meritorious candidates.

Executives drawing higher scales but could not extract the work of higher posts.

Smooth career progression for BSNL Executives.

This struggle is for all the Executives, across all the Wings in BSNL.

Excutives Unity Zindabad

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CS writes to CGMT reg Suggestions for minimizing number of PAN India ADSL plans

View Letter

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The Writ Petition filed by National Confederation of Officers Association (NCOA) against IDA freezing for CPSE’s  Executives,  admitted by Hon’ble High court of Guwahati on 16.12.2020.

Hon Guwahati HC issued Notice to Union of India to file Reply, Returnable on 04/01/2021 for consideration of interim relief and order. 

SNEA is part of NCOA and involved in filing the case.

Congratulations to all for winning the first step and the support extended to us.

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Congratulations to all the BSNL Executives for making the Twitter campaign on 17.12.2020 demanding non post based Time bound functional promotion w. e. f 01.07.2018 a big success. 

Gear up for the next more tougher agitation programs from 04.01.2021, Hunger Fast at BSNL CO and Circle Offices.

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 TWITTER CAMPAIGN ON 17-12-2020

 Appeal to all the Associations and Unions

Appeal to all the Executives in BSNL. 

Kindly support the Twitter campaign on 17.12.20 demanding non post based Time bound functional promotion w.e.f 01.07.2018.

Comrades, non post based time bound functional promotion only will give us career progression after Restructuring and VRS. 

It is for the promotion for all the Executives, minimum up to AGM Grade and thereafter to DGM and above. 

It is a common issue for all the Executives and those become Executives in the future. 

 Hash tag   #ReformHRPolicies_BSNL

Tweet to

CMD,BSNL  @cmdbsnl

Hon Minister @rsprasad

Secretary, DOT @DoT_India

Director HR  @arvind9963 

(Every Tweet shall contain Hash tag and Profile tag)

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Twitter Campaign on 17.12.2020

Requests all BSNL Executives to Join:

Time Bound Functional Promotions from 01.07.2018 through BEPPARR 2017 with PARITY

Time Bound Functional Promotion after every 5 years

New Designations along with change of scale

Past Service Weightage for future promotions

Open Promotion to the Higher Posts

Only Regular Promotion, NO Look After/Adhoc promotion

Honour the Assurances

Open Twitter accounts for all the members and follow the Twitter account of CHQ, GS, Circle and SSA. 

SNEA/CHQ can be followed on @sneachq

General Secretary can be followed on @gssnea

SNEA Kerala can be followed on @sneakeralabsnl

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SNEA Kerala CEC Meeting (held online through Zoom) on 12/12/2020

A CEC meeting of SNEA Kerala was organised through Zoom on 12/12/2020 from 7.30 PM. Circle Office Bearers, DSs, CEC members and Branch Secretaries joined the meeting online which was conducted mainly to discuss the ongoing agitation programs with regard to BEPPARR 2017 implementation/delay in 4G roll out and the next opening of window for registering/ renewing the health insurance policy which is due on 23.03.2020.

Circle secretary welcomed all participants. During reporting, Com. CS briefed about the agitation programmes being conducted under AUAB platform at different levels to protest against non implementation of 4G, IDA freezing for CPSUs from 01.10.2020 to 30.06.2021, the Lunch hour Demonstration/protest day observed against the undue delay in implementing BEPPARR 2017 as per CHQ call etc. Com. CS also briefed about the discussions held with the Circle Administration on 16.11.2020 regarding various HR/service matters. Most of the issues which were taken up with the Administration are either resolved or under the active consideration of the Circle Management and is being vigorously pursued by SNEA Kerala.

Circle President in his brief address reported the fate of the pay fixation of the erstwhile Officiating JTOs who were regularised after 2007. CEC opined that the Circle Administration is not willing to implement Corporate office orders and adhere to relevant guide lines already issued with regard to the subject. We are expecting serious intervention by the Circle Head in this matter for resolving this issue, as per our request, once the CGMT joins back after leave. The EPP orders which were issued to the JAOs were cancelled by the Corporate office simply citing probation, provisional orders and SLP pending at Supreme Court etc. which are most common and visible during all promotion orders being issued these days and hence to be resolved for the affected JAOs. We have tried to convince CGMT also regarding the negative stand taken by Corporate Office in this matter. SNEA Kerala has once again written to the management in this regard for early resolution. Looking After arrangements in all cadres have been arranged by the Administration as requested by us during the agenda meeting so that shortages in critical posts in BAs could be addressed to good extent. Certain short comings with regard to LA arrangement in BAs like Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur etc have been brought to the notice of Circle Administration and it is expected that those cases also would be addressed soon. BA Heads have been posted in all BAs except Kottayam and that too by promoting the Adhoc DGMs which became part of the history in Kerala Circle. Transfer requests from executives who served more than two years in a station were also issued by the Circle management as demanded by us.

The CEC meeting congratulated Com. George Varghese, CP and Com S Narendrakumar, CVP for their posting as GM Malappuram and DGM NWP CFA Circle office respectively under LA arrangement.  The CEC meeting also congratulated Com Rajesh Manchan, CWC Member who was unanimously elected as advisor to CHQ from Civil/Electrical wing. It was reported that Com Vivek G, Assistant Circle Secretary and Com Maneesh K P, Area Secretary Central have been nominated to the respective sub committees formed at CHQ level during the last CWC meeting for early resolution of 22820 basic pay and pay loss issue of JTOs/JAOs.

The following were discussed in length during the CEC meeting.

Agitation by SNEA for implementing BEPPARR 2017

The remaining programmes are

• Twitter Campaign on 17.12.2020 demanding promotion in all cadres wef 01.07.2018.
• Hunger Fast at BSNL CO/ Circle HQs from 04.01.2021 to 08.01.2021 from 10 AM to 6 PM.
• Indefinite Hunger Fast at BSNLCO/ Circle HQs from 15.02.2021 onwards

All out efforts to be made to conduct the above programmes in a grand manner. DSs may convene immediate general body meetings to convey message from the CHQ regarding the need of agitation programmes to all members. They may also take the initiative to create twitter account for all members and make arrangements to follow twitter accounts of SNEACHQ, GS, and SNEA Kerala on 17.12.2020 positively.

Health Insurance scheme renewal/ registration

The health insurance policy for employees in BSNL Kerala circle including their family members which commenced from 23.03.2020 was the concept of Circle Administration. The initial discussions, policy conditions, negotiation and finalisation of the bidder were carried out under the active involvement of GM HR taking Associations and Unions in to confidence. When it reached the premium collection stage, management back tracked from the initiative because of the compulsions created by some unions for reasons best known to them. At last, with the firm determination of SNEA and BSNLEU, the policy became a reality and came in to existence on 23.03.2020.  After eight months of its commencement, more than 200 members got the benefit and total reimbursed amount has crossed more than 1 Crore with a claim ratio of 72%. The members of the policy could get the quality treatment including cashless facility from their preferred prominent hospitals and BSNL Kerala could reduce the medical expenditure burden substantially.  

Meeting also condemned the way the so called recognised executive association expressed their views when management sought the opinion about the existing health insurance scheme. In reply to the administration letter they stated that they are unaware of the policy where as their association was also present in all discussions with the management till the finalisation of the bidder. Some of their active members including district leaders and their family also joined the scheme. The CEC meeting decided to open the window for renewal/ new registration with regard to the Health Insurance Scheme and to initiate negotiation with the insurer for pursuing more benefits for lesser premium amounts to employees and their family members.

Conducting Branch, District and Circle Conference of SNEA Kerala

DSs have reported that many Office Bearer posts at Branch and District levels are lying vacant after the VRS and the recent transfers/LA arrangements in BAs. The CEC meeting decided to conduct Conference/ General body meetings in BAs before March 2021 to elect the new body where the existing elected body has already completed or about to complete its tenure. During the discussion, Com. CS informed the meeting that the Circle body has completed two years in the month of November 2020 and a few Circle Office Bearer posts are lying vacant. It was reported that the CEC can decide about the modalities of conducting the next Circle Conference to elect the new body. Com. CS also pointed out that Com. Circle President is retiring on superannuation in the month of March 2021. Even though holding of Circle Conference was an agenda proposed in the meeting, noting the agitation program by AIGETOA questioning the continuance of the Circle President as a BA Head in the Circle which amounts to challenging the organisational right, the CEC felt that it is not appropriate to take a decision on the matter for the time being and hence kept pending for discussion in the next CEC meeting.

Opening of Child Bank Accounts at BA level.

It has been decided to open child accounts under the parent circle bank account of SNEA Kerala to operate at BA level as directed by the CHQ. DSs may arrange producing KYC documents of concerned District office bearers to the State Bank of India in this regard.

Diary and Calendar printing.

Meeting appreciated the hard work and enthusiasm shown by the committee for finalising 2021 diary and calendar for printing. District Secretary Ernakulam, Com R Suresh Kumar reported that the SNEA Diary-2021 would be made available for distribution before 25.12.2020.

The CEC meeting concluded by 12 AM. Circle Treasurer Com. S Suneer delivered vote of thanks.

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CS writes to CGMT reg Time bound promotion to JAOs completed 4 years of service in E1 scale and crossed the minimum of E2 scale

View Letter

Annexures - 1 || 2 || 3 || 4 || 5 || 6

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Congratulations to all...!! Transfer Orders released for AO/JAO cadre....we were continously pursuing for these orders with the Management.

View Orders

We thank Administration for releasing the orders as promised to us in the meeting with this association on 5/11/2020 and in further follow-up meetings.

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Agitation programs demanding promotions w.e.f. 01.07.2018 through BSNL Executive Promotion Policy Amendment and Rect Rules 2017 (BEPPARR 2017):

Protest Day on 10.12.2020:
Sample Black Badge for printing and wearing on 10.12.2020.
Sample black Badge  Sample Black badge (pdf).
Twitter Campaign on 17.12.2020 demanding promotions w.e.f. 01.07.2018:
Open Twitter accounts for all the members and follow the Twitter account of CHQ, GS, Circle and SSA. 
SNEA/CHQ can be followed on @sneachq
General Secretary can be followed on @gssneaPosters for the agitation may be printed by the respective Circles / SSAs. Sample poster for printing:
Sample Poster     Sample Poster (pdf)

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CS writes to CGMT reg Calling Volunteers to Look after to the post of STS at Kozhikode BA

View Letter

Circle Administration has called volunteers to look after STS posts to all the BAs vide letter dtd 27/10/20. Since the eligibility of executives to exercise the option was limited to the declared number of vacant posts - 80, only 55 option forms were received, out of which 48 got posting orders vide letter dtd 11/11/20. We requested your good self to further call option by going down the list since Malappuram and Kozhikode BAs didn’t get even a single candidate when the requirements are as high as 10 and 7. The option to Kannur and Palakkad BA also was meagre compared to other BAs.

We express our sincere gratitude to your good office for further seeking aspirants from among all eligible candidates to the post of STS by LA vide letter dtd 2/12/20 as requested by us. To our dismay Kozhikode BA, with a declared vacancy of 7 in the first option letter and filled none is missed out while calling the fresh option. Therefore it is requested that Option may be called to look after to the post of STS of Kozhikode BA also as done in case of other BAs.

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CS writes to CGMT reg Releasing of Civil/Electrical Executives for BA Works

View Letter

We appreciate the proactive steps being taken by the Circle Administration under the guidance of our respected CGM for deployment of Civil/Electrical executives to telecom core area till the restructuring process is over. This action has yielded fantastic results in many BAs in maintenance, operations of such assets as well as revenue generation areas like asset management. But, some BAs have failed to understand the concept behind this deployment and to utilize these experienced and highly qualified engineers. For instance, an SDE Civil attached to Palakkad BA is seen utilized as PA to GM instead of Land and building section, which will be apt for utilizing his skill, talent and vast experience.

Your kind attention is invited to the matter and you are requested to bestow your personal attention in reviewing the reposting/redeployment cases of the civil/electrical wing executives who were released/attached to various BAs, case by case and to take corrective actions immediately so that effective utilizations of the highly qualified and experienced executives take place for the betterment of our company as well as to uphold the dignity of the post.

Further we request your goodself to call for option for LA from Civil/Electrical officers to the post of EE/AGM and SDE also to meet the shortages in these cadres and to motivate the officers.

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Update on renewal of BSNL' CMTS license and 2G spectrum

CMD has informed SNEA CHQ that the Unified Access Service License Issue is likely to be resolved in a weeks' time. Processing of BSNL' proposal regarding renewal of the same wef February 29,2020 had picked up momentum after GS SNEA' letter to Hon. Minister for Communications last week citing severe service interruptions in its existing mobile network in various LSAs in the country. Timely replacement of faulty GSM/3G network elements including critical BTS cards could not be carried out by the foreign Vendors as they were not able to ship those to India due to import license issue faced by BSNL because of non renewal of CMTS license and 2G spectrum wef February 29,2020 by the WPC wing of DoT in cash neutral manner as suggested by the BSNL management. BSS teams in Kerala have been struggling hard for long to manage BTS failures due to card faults.We thank CHQ for bringing the matter before the highest office of Ministry of Communications as per our request.

Media News: Economic Times

https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/snea-seeks-telecom-ministers-intervention-for-bsnl-2g-license-renewal/79543110

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CS writes to CGMT reg Transfer Requests after publication of long stay list and posting of officers in Engineering/Finance streams

View Letter

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CS writes to CGMT reg LICE Promotion to the post of Rashtrabhasha Adhikari

View Letter

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Lunch Hour demonstration at BSNLCO, Circle and SSA HQs tomorrow, 02.12.2020.

Demand: Non-post based Time Bound Functional Promotion in all streams from 01.07.2018 onwards with Parity through the new promotion policy, BEPPARR 2017 approved by the Board.

All the Executives should join the agitation for their career growth.

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Meeting with Shri R K Goyal, PGM(Pers):

GS, President and AGS met PGM(P) last week and held discussions on the following issues:

Promotion in different cadres: On promotions, management is making all efforts to do the DPC, starting from JTO to SDE, PGM informed. Due to the court order, promotion cannot be given with reservation, PGM informed. So he is considering the promotions without reservation. How far it will be successful and giving promotion without reservation, we have to wait and watch. Competent authority and CLO who is a DPC member will allow promotions without reservation is to be seen in the coming days (Promotion without following reservation fully in AO to CAO promotion is questioned by the SC Commission and the Parliamentary Committee for which BSNL and Secy/DoT could not give proper reply so far).

On JTO to SDE promotion, 1st AIEL, final list already published. BSNLCO is trying to complete the 2^nd AIEL (upto 2008 rect) by incorporating the corrections which is in the advanced stage. After that, the 3^rd AIEL(upto 2012 rect) work will be started in full swing.

Promotion from SDE to DE missing cases: Fresh legal opinion will be taken in which the seniority of the SDEs already promoted in 2018 will be explained along with details of the s.

DGM(T/F) Promotion on Regular basis: The Regulariztion of the existing Adhoc DGMs will be completed first by publishing the final eligibility list. Thereafter relaxation in DE/CAO qualifying service will be considered, PGM informed.

Declaration of tenure stations in UKD Circle: UKD Circle already recommended for declaring few stations as tenure stations and the proposal is pending with BSNLCO. PGM assured to process the matter after discussing with DIR(HR).

SDE seniority revision – cases from A&N, AP/TL, HP, PB and RAJ Circles: We brought the pending cases of correction seniority list from few Circles. As juniors are already working in higher Grades, we requested to expedite the matter. Individual cases from different Circles will be completed at the earliest. With respect to the seniority fixation of SDEs from AP/TL Circles who passed the LDCE 2007, PGM assured to discuss with GM(Rect) for verifying their eligibility and VY.

Clarification on Lateral Advancement Scheme for JTOs and SDEs upto Feb 2006: Estt wing sought some queries regarding the applicability and pay fixation for Lateral Advancement promotion for JTOs and SDEs and treaing it as the 1st TBP. This on the reference received from TL, GUJ, AP etc Circles. PGM informed that as per the earlier discussions we had on the subject, matter has been examined and positive comments from Pers section sent to Estt section.

Further it will be pursued with Estt section.

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GS writes to Shri. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon Minister

Undue delay in renewing BSNLs Unified Access Service License (UASL) for its CMTS Operations and reallocation of 2G spectrum w.e.f. 29.02.2020 seriously affecting smooth functioning of GSM/3G networks in many LSAs. Immediate intervention solicited from the highest office for early resolution.

Smooth Operation & Maintenance of GSM/3G networks in many parts of the country has been seriously affected due to inordinate delay in replacement of faulty Core/ Radio Access Network elements including critical BTS cards which are to be supplied by different GSM Vendors. All are foreign Vendors and they require BSNLs import license for supplying BTS cards and other accessories to India.

GS letter to Hon Communication Minister

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Agitation for Regular Promotion in all streams from 01.07.2018 onwards with Parity through the new promotion policy approved by the Board:

Trade Union Programme:

1. Lunch Hour demonstration at BSNLCO, Circle and SSA HQs on 02.12.2020.

2. Protest Day on 10.12.2020 by wearing Black badges.

3. Twitter Campaign on 17.12.2020.

4. Hunger Fast from 04.01.2021 to 08.01.2021.

5. Indefinite Hunger Fast from 15.02.2021 onwards.

Open Twitter accounts for all the members. CS and SSA Secretaries have to open the Twitter account and instruct all the members to follow the Twitter account of CHQ, GS, Circle and SSA. 

SNEA/CHQ can be followed on @sneachq

General Secretary can be followed on @gssnea

CSs and SSA/Dist/Branch Secretaries to start campaining and make adequate preparations.

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Urgent intervention of CHQ sought for resolving the crisis developed due to non renewal of BSNL’ Access Service License for CMTS operations by the DoT.

It has been reported that smooth Operation & Maintenance of GSM/3G/4G networks in many parts of the Circle has been seriously affected due to inordinate delay in replacement of faulty Core/ RAN elements including critical BTS cards which are to be supplied by different GSM Vendors. Vendors require BSNL’ import license for supplying BTS cards and other accessories to India which is to be issued by the Regional Licensing Offices (RLOs) which is inturn held up due to delay in processing BSNL’ request for renewal of its CMTS licence for Operation of Mobile Services in various License Service Areas in the country as the same had expired on February 28, 2020. Issuance of Unified Access Service License and Spectrum Allocation Letter of Intent (LoI) need to be done by the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) wing of the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India, the administrative Head of BSNL. 

SNEA Kerala has brought this to the notice of CHQ for taking up the issue at the highest level in the Ministry of Communications for early resolution of the crisis which is seriously affecting mobile network services in many Circles.

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IDA freezing for CPSUs from 01.10.2020 to 30.06.2021

NCOA and AUAB calls for observing 25.11.2020 as PROTEST DAY.

DPE Order freezing IDA  NCOA letter AUAB letter

National Confederation of Officers Associations (NCOA) calls for observing 25.11.2020 as PROTEST DAY.

All Unions and Associations in BSNL (AUAB) calls for Lunch Hour Protest Demonstrations on 25.11.2020.

On one side Govt not implemented 3rd Pay Revision for many PSUs including BSNL. BSNL employees are working round the clock to maintain the essential telecom services during the Covid 19 pandemic. Many CPSUs are playing important role in maintaining the essential services during the Covid.

NCOA and AUAB deplore the Govt decision for Freezing of IDA in the name of Covid 19.

All SSA Secys are requested to coordinate with other Assns and Unions to make the programme a big success.

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SPOCs for EPF related matters at Circle & BA level  have been assigned by Circle administration

As requested by us vide our letter dated 15.10.2020 and as per the follow up discussions held during the agenda meeting with the CGMT on 5.11.2020, Circle administration has appointed SPOCs (Single Point of Contact) for dealing with EPF related matters of employees at Circle and BA level. We thank respected CGMT Sh. C V Vinod Sir and GM HR/Admn Sh. R Sathesh Sir for their prompt response and action in this regard. We also thank our Palakkad team for bringing to our notice about hardships being faced by employees while dealing with EPF related matters especially for settlement of various EPF claims and the necessity of having such an arrangement at BA and Circle level for their speedy resolution for EPF beneficiaries in the Circle.

View Orders || our Letter dtd 15/10/2020

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Twitter campaign on 17.12.2020 demanding Time Bound Functional Promotions w.e.f. 01.07.2018.

Open Twitter accounts for all the members. CS and SSA Secretaries have to open the Twitter account and instruct all the members to follow the Twitter account of CHQ, GS, Circle and SSA. 

SNEA/CHQ can be followed on @sneachq

General Secretary can be followed on @gssnea

CSs and SSA/Dist/Branch Secretaries to monitor the progress in Twitter a/c opening.

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GS writes to Shri. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon Cabinet Minister for Communications & IT:

Denial of permission for BSNL to launch 4G services using the existing infrastructure and BTSs by upgradation of about 49,300 4G/4G compatible BTSs already procured, spending thousands of Crores. BSNL revival is getting abnormally delayed. Even one year after the Cabinet decision on 23.10.2020 for BSNL Revival and allotment of 4G spectrum, BSNL could not launch 4G services. Right from the day one, BSNL faced the unique problem as you rightly stated earlier, BSNL DID NOT ALLOWED TO GROW.

More than 60% mobile revenue is from 2G services, BSNL cannot ignore 2G and go for 4G alone after 2 years. So the new technology under testing should be 4G as well as 2G compatible. Similarly such developed Technology and equipments should have sufficient capacity for transmission of high power.

Request to intervene in the matter decisively for allowing BSNL to launch 4G services immediately with the existing network, through upgradation of the existing 49,300 BTSs which are procured, installed by spending more than Rs 5000 Crores on the anticipation that BSNL can launch 4G services within 2 to 3 months on allotment of 4G spectrum. The new tender for 4G equipments may be dealt separately without clubbing with the upgradation.

GS letter to Hon Telecom Minister

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Meeting with Shri P K Purwar, CMD/BSNL on 13.11.2020:

GS, AGS and Com Arvind Dahiya, CP/BSNLCO met CMD and held discussions on the following issues:

1) Launching of 4G Services:

CMD informed that the Technical Committee has submitted its report on 30.09.2020. Committee recommended that BSNL has to discontinue with 2G services which is opposed by BSNL. None of the Indian firms have 2G technology. Committee agreed only for upgradation of BTSs supplied by L1 (M/s Nokia). This will serve only South and West zones. Another recommendation of the Committee is that the Source code should be placed in an Escrow account.

BSNL submitted its response to the Committee report on 08.10.2020 firmly demanding 2G and 4G for its revival. BSNL requirement is 2G/3G/4G compatible Core and RAN. Otherwise BSNL 2G&3G services and 4G services will have separate Core and RAN, escalating our expenses by thousands of Crores. It is to be compensated suitably by the Govt.

All the issues will be discussed in the ETG (Empowered Technical Group) headed by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Prime Minister, most probably on 20th or 23^rd November. CMD also will be attending the meeting. BSNL will insist for early POC, CMD informed.

2) ICR agreement with Vodafone for 4G services:

Discussion is going on. Vodafone is demanding very high rate. After Diwali, CMD is trying to have meeting with the CEO of Vodafone on this issue.

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Meeting with Sri S K Gupta, Director(Fin) on 13.11.2020:

GS and AGS met DIR(Fin) and held discussions on the following issues:

DIR(F) informed that almost all the short term loans and loans having higher interest rates are closed after getting Rs 8500 Crores by issuing Bonds. We could reduce the liability by this and all the bank liability upto March 2021 is cleared by this. The collection is good, almost steady and it can be utilised for other purposes, till March. All the outstanding payments towards the employees are made, old labour payments are done in instalments almost every month, electricity pending dues come down from 300 Cr to below 100 Cr, DIR(F) explained.

The half yearly result is good and BSNL again become EBITA positive after some years. After the issue of Bond, BSNL has to prepare and submit the balance sheet to the stock exchange.

On our query, he expressed confidence that the salary payment will become regular in one or two months time.

DIR(F) really appreciated SNEA for taking up very serious issues and the recent letter on Alphion AMC was appreciated by all. Senior management took our points very seriously and discussed in detail, he told. He told us to continue to take up such issues and give feedback to the management on various issues.

He will now work as Pr CCA, New Delhi with the additional charge of DIR(F)/MTNL.

New Director(F) Smt Yojana Das also present. She will be taking the charge on Monday, 16.11.2020.

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Congratulations! 
Inter BA request transfer orders to SDEs/JTOs issued today.

View Order-1 || Order-2

As assured by the CGMT during the agenda meeting with SNEA on 5-11-2020, Circle administration has issued inter BA transfer orders to SDEs and JTOs who have completed two years in a station, on their requests. We express our sincere thanks and gratitude to the CGMT, Sh. C V Vinod Sir, GM HR Sh. Sathesh Sir , Smt. Leena Rose Thomas DGM HR, Smt.  Sunitha George AGM HR and Smt. Renu Viswanathan SDE HR for processing the request transfer cases of SDEs/JTOs this year also on our request, which is being implemented every year as part of a fair and transparent transfer policy formulated in 2008 in the Circle.

DSs may verify the orders for any errors or omissions and may bring it to the notice of the Circle team for follow up action at Circle office. During the agenda meeting with the CGMT, we had also requested to publish stay particulars and transfer requests with respect to executives in other cadres such as Accounts, Finance, Civil and Electrical wings. We had also suggested inviting options from AOs towards giving LA orders in the cadre of CAO. We had also given suggestions with regard to transfers and LA orders in Civil and Electrical wings as well. We are happy to note that all such requests and suggestions from our side have been well accepted by the Circle Administration. 

Inter BA transfer requests from JAOs, AOs and CAOs have been published. Volunteers have been called for giving LA orders in the cadre of CAO. Left out cases in LA AGM cadre in EKM BA has been issued today as pointed out by us. 

We are following up with the Circle HR team for early release of all orders including LA and inter BA transfers in all other wings/ cadres as well. 

Further, SNEA Kerala is fully committed to ensure justice to all especially during the Covid pandemic for ensuring minimum disturbance to executives as far as transfer and posting based on stay is concerned. Our suggestions in this regard have already been accepted by the Circle Head and we express sincere gratitude to our CGMT in that regard.

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It is a matter of proud and happiness, today the Agali area bandwidth increased from 1G to 10G with the active intervention CGMT Kerala on request of SNEA Palakkad through SNEA Kerala.
Thanks to CGMT Sir for the prompt action and close follow up. Also Congratulations to SNEA Palakkad for focussing on this critical service issue. We also thank Kannur team for sparing and diverting the equipments for this purpose.

Earlier on 21/9/2020, SNEA Kerala escalated to CGMT, the Severe bandwidth issues in Attapadi area causing heavy customer complaints and churn  View Letter

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Congratulations..!! long pending TBP orders issued for the 12 JAOs : View Orders

We were continuously pursuing for these orders. It was an agenda item in the recently held meeting on 5/11/2020 with Management where CGMT  promised that the EPP orders will be issued soon. We thank CGMT Shri C.V.Vinod Sir and GM HR Shri Sathesh.R Sir for the immediate resolution of this issue on genuine ground.

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Meeting with Circle Management on 05.11.2020

A meeting SNEA with Circle administration was held on 05.11.2020 on various agenda points which were the active points of discussion in our CEC meeting held on 22.09.2020. The meeting were initially scheduled on 12.10.2020 and delayed due to the inconveniences of circle administration.

Respected CGMT Shri C.V.Vinod chaired the meeting, GM HR&Admin Shri Sathish.R, DGM HR&Admin Smt.Leena rose Thomas, AGM HR Smt.Sunitha George, SDE HR Smt.Renu Vishwanathan and SDE Admin Shri Sanjay Kumar represented form administration side.

CP Com George Varghese, CS Com Jithesh, CT Com Suneer, CWC members Com Suresh, Com Rajesh Manchan, Com Salim, Com Vimal, Com Gafoor,  CVP Com Narendrakumar, ACS Com Ramana, Vivek, District Secretaries Com Aslesh, Com Jyothis, Com Sreejesh, Com Manoj, Com Vipin, Com Sabu, Area Sec South Com Vinukumar attended the meeting for SNEA.

In the introductory speech CGMT extensively discussed about 4G and initiation taken by the circle administration to commission new 4G sites in kerala by diverting licenses from other circles, ICR agreements with Vodafone and Airtel, the indigenous core, Partnership outsourcing model of BSNL, and initiatives taken by Circle Administration for allotment of 5 MHZ spectrum for Kerala circle with full justification which ensure ROI within one year as suggested by the Assocation under various occasion etc. Kerala circle has tremendous telecom business potential. Most of the customers are loyal customers.

Circle secretary expressed the gratitude of SNEA for convening the meeting which allowed 13 members participation through online and six offline . BSNL has a very good market potential for FTTH connection. The way the circle head impressed corporate office for retaining the exclusive LCOs registered under spouse/ward category also is well appreciated.  If it continues BSNL Kerala have a very good chance for regaining the pristine glory under the able leadership of our CGM.  Circle head interested to intervene in HR issues and settling most of them also is unique. Circle president Com George Vargheese also appreciated the circle head for the achievements of Kerala circle. Circle administration served the soft copy of reply to all our agenda points before the meeting.

The following issues were discussed in the meeting

HR RELATED MATTERS

1.    HR Restructuring and redeployment:

CGM briefed the restructuring proposal of Kerala circle sent to corporate office which projected 55 DGMT, 20 DGMF, 210 AGM &32 CAOs. CS thanked CGMT for considering the proposal of Association to reinstate the operational DGMs which was missing in the proposal of corporate office. Further we reiterated associations stand on transfer policy which envisaged in 2008. As the working strength in JTO/SDE cadre is only 50% of the sanctioned strength after VRS, administration may request corporate office to retain all JTOs promoted as SDEs in the expected DPC promotion. CS also requested to retain these officers in their respective BAs and if at all the transfer is necessitated, the stay particulars of the officers may be checked.   

2.    Pending Request Transfers:

CGM reported that the list of executives requested transfer already published and most of the requests are to Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram districts. While considering the requests in genuine and on humanitarian ground, the business needs and operational requirement of shortage BAs cannot be ignored and executive have to move across BAs if such transfers results shortage. We thanked CGMT for directing BA heads to forward request transfer requests to circle office after 3 months of joining. The request list of Civil/Electrical and Accounts cadres are not released. We requested to consider all the transfer requests. Since circle management considers Kerala circle as surplus circle with respect to Accounts personal, the two year completed JAOs, recruited in 2018 may be given transfers to their choice from surplus BAs without substitute.  CGMT agreed to publish request transfer list of all cadres.

Circle office published list of request transfers in accounts cadre on 06.11.2020 as per the assurance of CGMT.

3.    Rule 9 temporary Transfer:

We Thanked CGMT for forwarding all temporary transfer applications to corporate office.

4.    EPF related issues and suggestions:

On our request letter dated 15.10.2020, CGMT announced the approval of SPOCs at circle and BAs and the order will be issued soon in the intranet. This was a consistent appeal of our Palakkad BA comrades.

5.    EPP pending issue for JAOs and inclusion of 2013 JAOs in gradation list:

On the agenda item CGM announced that the EPP orders will be issued soon. Thanks to CGMT for immediate resolution of the issue on genuine ground. The issue of  inclusion of  left out 2013 JTO in the gradation list will be discussed further.

6.    Pay fixation and recovery issue of officiating JTOs:

CGMT told that the issue will be settled and  model pay fixation will be issued within a reasonable time, in light of the recent reply received from corporate office for the clarification sought by the circle in case of officiating JTOs regularised between 2007 and 2010. While thanking to the reply, CP also requested Circle administration to pursue the pay recovery case of officiating JTOs regularised after 2014 with corporate office as well refixation of these JTOs without reversion made before Training. CGMT agreed to endorse these orders to BAs.

7.    LA arrangements in BAs:

CGMT reported that looking after for DGM and AGM has already been called. We requested the same may be done in the CAO and Civil/Electrical wing also. We pointed out that looking after arrangement order could have been issued in interest of service instead of own cost transfer.  Circle administration also compelled executives to exercise option by giving personal messages which could have been avoided, by going down the list and assigning the same to the senior most executives of the respective BAs where ever options were not received. Also CS pointed out certain disputed cases in the recent LA order for which CGMT assured to settle it by case to case basis.  CGMT agreed to review the case of Smt.sy joseph from Alleppy and Sri. Velayudhan from Trichur. ( Both case approved, Thanks to CGMT for prompt favourable orders).CGMT also  opined  that executives should have the courtesy at least to reject the offer given by the circle for which CP replied that it is because it has not been practiced in our circle earlier.  

8.    Non availability of BA Heads:

CGM reported that except Kottayam all other BAs have now GMs. Corporate office posted one GM to Kerala and two were assigned to hold the GM posts among the senior Adhoc DGMs. We thanked circle administration for taking the historical decision to post  BSNL Absorbed officers Adhoc DGMs as GMs to head BAs.

9.    Continuance of Employees’ health insurance scheme for the next year:

CGM agreed to our views conveyed in the letter no dated 20.10.2020. CGM had a detailed analysis of the scheme and replied that corporate office is not in a position to assure that if the deduction is made from salary, it may not be credited to the insurer timely. CGM assured to announce the policy in a semi official way for adding more employees and to negotiate with the insurer for more benefits with lower premium.

10. Civil/Electrical Issues:  CGMT  clarified the stand of Corporate office in the case of Transfer of SDE civil from Kerala inspite of his intervention and the present stalemate in continuing External project.

11.   TR centralisation:

CGM assured that all our suggestions will be well taken care of.

12. Covid-19 affected employees – leave eligibility:

CGM informed that proposal for special leave for covid affected, in primary contact are duly sent to corporate office as in case of railways etc.

13. Online attendance system:

While registering protest in implementation of online attendance system, we suggested to record the man hours worked each day as done in IT companies. CGM advice to develop a culture reaching early at office. He also agreed to our   suggestion  to input of measuring work.    

 

SERVICE RELATED ISSUES

14. AMC for Engine Alternator:

We told that direction may be given to float tender for EA repair in all BAs as done in EKM, KLM and ALPY. During the last CGMs tenure, BAs taken a stand to repair engine alternators their own and still believe that the system need to continue. We pointed out that the AMC charges per BTS are as low as 300 Rs. At last CGM agreed our views and decided discuss the progress of tendering process in the next BA head meeting.

15. Marketing and Consumer Mobility related issues:

1. Mobile Marketing:  Frequent plan changes, Pan India  plan implementation  without considering the Kerala scenario, Activation delay, Ekyc, Pyro, sancharsoft issue etc

2. BB plans above Rs. 500 plan charges can be provided in FTTH network also. But customers are deprived of the higher speed that can be attained in the FTTH network due to plan restrictions:

BSNL provided lot of BB plans above Rs 500/- in FTTH network earlier. But the speed of such plans are less, maximum up to 10 Mbps. BSNL introduced attractive FTTH plans later with higher speed and lower tariff than these BB plans. Recently BSNL increased speed of 499 plan from 20 Mbps to 30 Mbps, but for 599 plan it is still 10 Mbps even though the customer is paying 100 Rs extra. This is a matter of  concern  in the field when the customer understands that he is paying more for an inferior service. We suggested to CGMT that the speed of the higher tariff BB plan be increased at par with the lower plan. CGM opined that all such plans need to be migrated to higher plans by calling the customers. He also requested us to intimate the details of such plans.

3. Tower renewal and IP IN sharing:  We have pointed out the problem in renewal of Towers due to non payment of  rent and in  some cases renewal is not possible on genuine  reason . In such case IP sharing is to be approved for which the ceiling on additional land lord  rent is creating problem. CGMT agreed to take up the issue with corporate office.

4. In situ scrapping of towers:  CGMT appreciated our suggestion and agreed to issue orders in this regard instead of dismantling and storing  resulting huge loss.

5. Issues related with Call centre, Activation delay, Dkyc issues, Term cell penalty etc

CGM informed that the call centre vendor is under bankruptcy. Corporate office is requesting Kerala circle to start a call centre of our own which will be discussed with association and BAs. CGM has the firm opinion that certain BAs are not completing the CAF cropping in time and any delay or error with regard to such ignorance need to be viewed seriously.

16. New FTTH Plans:

We requested to implement the new FTTH plans having higher speed in all BAs. CGM replied that these plans are not economical to BSNL and is introduced only to combat with our competitors (reliance and airtel). if the implementation at EKM and TVM BAs are encouraging, it may be introduced in other BAs also.

17. Commencement of IPTV in other BAs:

CGMT acknowledged the displeasure in the commencement of IPTV in Kerala circle. For the time being the concentration will be to implement it in BSNL and Exclusive LCO networks. He also agreed for discussion with corporate office about the tariff structure.

18. Cluster monitoring and invoice processing: CGMT informed that CMD has agreed to make necessary changes if any suggested by the circle in case the performance of  present   cluster partners are not satisfactory and retender is required. All clulster incharges  are to  strictly and seriously  monitor the cluster maintenance and  the improvement in service quality and  at least retention of customers are to be ensured .

19. LCO Payments:

Corporate office is not in favour of cash payment to LCOs. Registration of B-pay and commission hand over through Wallet is being practiced now. Corporate office is allotting money in this vertical but is not sufficient to pay all the pending bills.

20. Infra procurement leased model:  CGMT appreciated our suggestions and informed that these issues are to be dealt at corporate level.

21. Transmission maintenance:

We requested to float tender for UG OF cable maintenance in all BAs and to sign agreement under type V model for the overhead cable maintenance. CGM replied that he will discuss the issue in the next BA head meeting.

22. SRRC & repair of PP modules and cards:

Most of the employees worked in SRRCs took VRS and the non receipt of temporary advance has badly affected its functioning. Tenders for the repair at BA level may be called for the repair of the cards and modules. Instead of repairing the old PP modules with a repair cost ~ 4500 Rs, 80A PP modules with rates between 5000 and 6000 are available in the market which can be purchase by sanctioning LPCs in BA itself we suggested. We also informed that the spares available in the market are not of the desired quality. In reply CGM told that technically sound employees wish to work may be posted at SRRCs. Experienced retired employees also may be considered for contracting the work and tenders also may be floated.

23. Clarity/CRM/FMS issues:

To the concern of the association about the frequent failures of clarity, CRM and FMS CGM told that it is a pan india issue and need to be settled from corporate office. We also brought to the notice of CGM the issues related with migration of existing Broad band numbers to the FTTH network. No issues are being faced in migration of Huawei Core numbers whereas Utstar migration has so many hurdles. 

24. Refund of deposit to closed numbers:

We informed that the refund of security deposit through topping up of the customers mobile is not implemented in most of the BAs citing the technical issues and we need not pay voluntarily the deposit to the NPD customers until customers claim for the same. We also informed that the earlier procedure to pay back the deposit through cheque stopped by BSNL citing the transaction charge and postage expenditure and some refund cases are there which completed all formalities in the system to refund through cheque which need to be reviewed. CGM replied that the non implementation of refund by pushing mobile stock is not in the notice of the circle and will discuss in the next BA head meeting. Our opinion  regarding  closure due to  NPD numbers and refund thereof  will be examined.

25. CPAN B-node issues:  The matter was  discussed with CGMT citing Wayand failure , CGMT agreed to  take up the matter with Vendor are concerned

26. New Business models:

To our request to allow LCOs to rearrange our poles and to erect new poles for 10 Years like BOT model, CGM replied that let LCOs submit the proposal for consideration of BSNL. With regard to the termination of LCO agreements of the non performance, CGMT told that corporate office has already instructed for termination of such LCOs and care should be taken to ensure that, all connections provided by the non performer is migrated to BSNL Own FTTH network or to any other exclusive LCO networks.

27. AMC related issues of OLTEs, DSLAMs, Switches etc:

We informed that due to  the active intervention by SNEA , corporate office has terminated the AMC of Alphion OLT. Similar issues are to be highlighted in all other AMCs by cost accounting. We also requested that, a portion of money saved in the AMC termination may be reinvested for arranging proper spare or for replacing the OLTs with cost effective new equipments. CGMT told that Kerala circle decided to form a cost cell for the same.

28. NGN Migration and POI shifting pending:

We requested circle to complete all migration immediately.  CGMT informed that  priority will be given in releasing Temporary Advance  for this work.

29. Delay in updation of online payments in CRM and there by delay in reconnection:

To our specific request to have payment gateways of our own, CGM informed that it is not under the purview of Kerala circle.

30. Customer bills not receiving through email especially for enterprise customers using their company email domain:

CGMT informed that as per ITPC the issue has been settled and if complaints are still there may be because of the non updation of email/mobile numbers in CRM due to the change of officers in charges. May be taken up individually as and when complaint is registered since ITPC  is demanding specific cases.   

31. FTTH provisioning and KPI monitoring , Centralised customer care centre for FTTH and Technical support to BSNL Franchisees/Exclusive LCOs:

In the meeting we emphasised the need of call centre for FTTH customers and a centralised NOC for OLT partners at circle level. CGM replied that NOC at circle office will not yield the desired result and may think of forming an expert team having sufficient experience in field in BAs or at circle level.  We had a detailed deliberation regarding dynamically adjusting the MTU size in all BSNL network elements and also pointed out the importance replacement of old routers with new one with advanced facilities. The super core router installation at Kozhikkode BA and its failure in commissioning related with vendor issue also discussed.

32. Purchase of high end ONTs exclusively to provide recently launched plans above 100 Mbps in TVM and EKM BAs:

To the subject we told that now ONTs compatible with Alphion OLT are available in the open market. Therefore we may suggest customers to purchase compatible ONTs changing the rental option.

Other items discussed with CGMT

Antidating of promotion – case of 4 JAOs posted against resultant vacancies aroused due to declining of selected candidates against LICE examination conducted for 2015-2016 vacancies:

CGMT replied that the case is under active consideration of the circle office.

The meeting was fruitful, interactive and lasted  for nearly 4 hours .

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