Harmony CSIR: Circulars

This post is under construction, kindly bear with us...

December, 2004

GUIDELINES FOR GOVT.- FUNDED PLAN AND NON-PLAN SCHEMES

CSIR have forwarded the Guidelines for Formulation, Appraisal and Approval of Government-Funded Plan & Non-Plan Schemes/Projects consisting of 8 documents to all its Laboratories. It is desirable to endorse copies of above document to P.M.E. and administrative units by the respective Laboratories.

[CSIR Lr. No. 30(2050)/2003-Finance dt. 6-10-2003]

DPC - VIGILANCE CLEARANCE AND SEALED COVER PROCEDURE

In terms of the judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, no promotion can be withheld merely on the basis of suspicion or doubt or where the matter is under preliminary investigation and has not reached the stage of issue of charge sheet, etc. In the matter of CBI investigation or otherwise, the Govt. is within its right to suspend the official. In that case, the officer’s case for promotion would automatically be required to be placed in the sealed cover in terms of para 2 of GoI MPPG&P DoPT O.M.No.22011/4/91-Estt.(A) dated 14-9-1992. It is clarified that the DPC is required to consider the cases of all persons who are otherwise eligible in terms of the Recruitment Rules as on the relevant crucial date and are in the zone of consideration. However, If an employee in the zone of consideration is covered by any of the three situations as mentioned in para 2 of the O.M. cited, only this fact is to be furnished to the DPC so that the recommendations could be placed in sealed cover. Where none of the three situations has arisen, a simple vigilance clearance is required to be furnished. Vigilance clearance/ status would have no other significance and would not be a factor in deciding the fitness of the officer for promotion on merit. If one of the above conditions arise only after the DPC has made its recommendations and therefore the recommendations could not be placed in the sealed cover, para 7 of the O.M. cited provides that the recommendations of the DPC shall be deemed to have been placed in the sealed cover and he shall not be promoted until he is exonerated of the charges. Therefore, after the recommendations of DPC have been approved by the competent authority, it is necessary again to seek the status from the concerned Vigilance Division before issuing promotion order in respect of any Officer included in the approved list of panel of names to ensure that there is no hindrance in issuing the promotion order in respect of the concerned Officer.

[GI MPPG&P DPT O.M.No.22012/1/99-Estt(D) dt. 25-10-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(82)/98-O&M dt. 22-11-2004]

AUSTERITY MEASURES

Effective from 1st October, 2004, inter alia, the following austerity measures have been introduced. i) All Plan and Non-plan programmes to be reviewed to determine their continued relevance. ii) No deviations of expenditure from the budgetary ceilings will be allowed. iii) Non-tax receipts should be revised to recover at least the cost of the services. iv) Emphasis should be laid on explicit recognition of the revenue constraints and a realistic projection of the budgetary allocations required for various projects/ schemes. v) No fresh financial commitments should be made on items which are not provided for in the budget. vi) There shall be a mandatory 10% cut in the budgetary allocation for non-plan, non-salary expenditure, including OTA/ honorarium. No re-appropriation of funds to augment these heads would be allowed. Austerity must be reflected in furnishing of offices/offices at residences. vii) Foreign travel should be restricted to unavoidable official engagements. There shall be a ban on foreign travel for study tours, seminars, workshops, etc. funded by GoI except for annual and other formal meetings of bilateral/multilateral bodies are to be restricted to the bare minimum. viii) The per diem allowance for travel abroad to all countries for all categories shall continue to be depressed by 25%. ix) Utmost austerity will be observed in organizing conferences, seminars, etc. x) Ban on creation of Plan and Non-Plan posts will continue. xi) Purchase of new vehicles is banned until further orders even in replacement of condemned vehicles. Hiring of private vehicles from outside should be limited to the number of vehicles condemned.

[GI MF O.M. No. 7(5)/E.Co-Ord./2004 dt. 24-9-2004; Swamysnews, Nov.2004, 14-7]

REVISION OF ELIGIBILITY LIMITS OF ADVANCES

Following the merger of 50% of DA with Basic pay, the existing provisions of Rule 193, 199, 211, 212, 236 and 263 of General Financial Rules, 1963 relating to advances for purchase of Motor car, Personal computer, Motor cycle/Scooter/Moped/Bicycle and advances for festival, and for providing immediate financial relief to the families of Govt. Servants who die while in service as detailed hereunder: Present limitations have been raised as given under each: Rule 193 – Motor car advance – Eligibility: Basic pay and Dearness Pay taken together is Rs.15,750/-; Motor cycle/ Scooter/Moped advance: Basic pay and DP taken together is Rs.6,900/- Rule 199 – Car advance For the first or subsequent occasion: the words “or eleven months’ Basic pay shall be substituted with “or eight months of Basic pay and DP taken together. Rule 211 – Quantum of advance admissible for purchase of Motor cycle/Scooter/Moped For the first occasion: For the words “or six months’ Basic pay, the words “or four months’ Basic pay and DP taken together For second or subsequent occasions: for the words “or five months’ Basic pay, the words “or three months’ Basic pay and DP taken together shall be substituted. Rule 212 – Bicycle advance Eligibility: Basic pay and DP taken together should not exceed Rs.7,500/- Rule 236 – Festival advance Eligibility: Basic pay and DP taken together should not exceed Rs.12,450/- Rule 263 – Immediate financial relief to the family of the deceased Govt. servant Quantum of relief: Equal to two months’ Basic and DP taken together or the deceased Govt. servant, subject to a maximum of Rs.8,000/-

[GI MF O.M. No. 12(1)/E.II(A)/2004 dt. 8-10-2004; Swamysnews, Nov. 2004, 17-20]

DEARNESS PAY VIS-À-VIS H.B.A.

Consequent upon merger of DA equal to 50% of the existing Basic Pay to CG employees to be shown as DP, it has been decided to count DP also for the purpose of grant of HBA without any change in the maximum limits for its grant of Rs.7.50 lakhs for construction/purchase and Rs.1.80 lakhs for enlargement of existing house. Similarly there is no change in the minimum and maximum ceiling limits. The rate of interest on HBA during 2004-05 shall be at the same level as for 2003-04. However, for the purpose of calculating repaying capacity, the Basic pay shall be sum total of existing Basic Pay and the DP thus merged therewith. These orders have been brought into effect from 1-4-2004

[GI MUD O.M.No.1-17011/2(2)/2004-H.III dt. 9-8-2004; Swamysnews, Nov. 2004, 20]

REIMBURSEMENT OF RENT TO G.S. DURING STAY IN GUEST HOUSES

Consequent upon merger of DA to the extent of 50% of pay with Basic pay w.e.f. 1-4-2004 and shown distinctly as DP, it has been decided that only Basic pay will be counted and DP will not be taken into account for reimbursement of rent paid in excess of 10% of Basic pay by the officials who are posted to the Centre and who stay temporarily in State Bhavans/Guest Houses run by the State Govts./Autonomous organisations.

[GI MF O.M.No.2(25)/04-E.II(B) dt.19-8-2004; Swamysnews, Nov. 2004, 21-2]

APPLICATION CS (MA) RULES, 1944 TO PENSIONERS IN NON-CGHS AREAS

The Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944 are not applicable to CG pensioners. On the recommendations of 5th Central Pay Commission and on a reference from the Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare, the Department of Health responded vide its O.M.No.S.14025/4/ 96-MS dated 5-6-1998 has stated that it did not have any objection to such proposal. Subsequently, the views of all the Ministries/Departments of the GoI had been sought before a final decision could be taken. The above communication has been misinterpreted by some pensioners as the final order of the GoI to extend CS (MA) Rules, 1944 to pensioners. It is now unequivocally clarified that the Department of Expenditure has categorically said that in view of huge financial implications, it is not feasible to extend CS (MA) Rules, 1944 to pensioners.

[GI MH&FW O.M.No.S.14025/4/96-MS dt. 20-8-2004; Swamysnews, Nov. 2004, 22-3]

REVISION OF CGHS SUBSCRIPTION

Effective from 1-4-2004, the monthly CGHS contribution would be based on the Basic pay/pension plus Dearness Pay/ Pension as given hereunder: Basic pay plus Dearness Monthly Pay OR Basic Pension ubscription Plus Dearness Pension Up to Rs.3,000 … Rs. 15.00 Rs.3,001-6,000 … Rs. 40.00 Rs.6001-10,000 … Rs. 70.00 Rs.10,001-15,000 … Rs. 100.00 Rs.15,001 and above … Rs. 150.00 The Pensioners shall have an option to get their CGHS Pensioner card made by either making CGHS contribution on an annual basis (12 months) or by paying for 10 years (120 months) for getting a permanent/whole life Card. Pensioners who join the CGHS w.e.f. 1-4-2004 or a subsequent date would get their ward entitlement based on their last Basic pay plus DP i.e. they would continue to get the same ward entitlement as they had while in service. The dependency criteria for availing medical facilities under CGHS which was raised to Rs.1,500/- p.m. would include income from all sources including pension and pension equivalent of DCRG benefit and exclude (i) the relief on pension sanctioned after Dec. 1995, and (ii) DP granted w.e.f. 1-4-2004 would continue to remain the same.

[GI MH&FW O.M.No.S-11011/6/98-CGHS(P) dt.20-9-2004; Swamysnews, Nov. 2004, 23-5]

November, 2004

AMENDMENT TO CSIR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES RULES, 1982

The following provision as S.No.11 of the Note under Part VI Miscellaneous of the CSIR Administrative Services (Recruitment & Promotion) Rules, 1982 has been approved by the GB, CSIR: "11.The service rendered in the same (i.e. identical) scale of pay in General Cadre shall be counted as approved service in the cadres of Finance & Accounts and Stores & Purchase for the purpose of eligibility for promotion to the next higher grade in the cases of staff shifted under restructuring of cadres." Accordingly, the service rendered by the staff members who are to be shifted to the cadres of Finance & Accounts and Stores & Purchase, from the General Cadre shall be counted towards eligibility for promotion to the next higher grade in the recipient cadres. However, seniority shall be reckoned from the date of coming over to the recipient cadre. The staff members up to Assistants (Gen.) Gr.I working in the Finance & Accounts or Stores who have not exercised their options so far, will be given a last opportunity to exercise their option for shifting over to the Finance & Accounts or Stores & Purchase cadres, latest by 15th October, 2004.

[CSIR Lr.No.3-33(117)/2003-E.I dt.24-9-2004]

REVISION OF FORMAT BY CVC The form for submission of New Monthly Report on Vigilance Activities has been revised by the CVC. The CVC had also desired that Annual Report for the year 2003 may be prepared expeditiously to reach them by 15th January of the succeeding year. The Quarterly Statistical Return (QSR) has since been discontinued.

[CSIR Lr.No.15-6(91)/2003-O&M dt. 24-9-04]

REVISION OF LICENCE FEE

The Govt. has revised the flat rates of licence fee (not reproduced here) recoverable for the residential accommodation available in General Pool and also in Departmental Pools of Ministries/Departments of the GoI. These revised rates would be effective from 1-7-2004.

[GI MUD&PA Dte. Of Estates O.M. No.18011/ 4/2003-Pol.III dt. 22-6-2004; CSIR Endt. No. 12-28/1/2001-Estate dt. 28-9-2004]

MAINTENANCE OF FILES

The Ministries/Departments under Govt. of India have been instructed to issue suitable instructions for strict compliance of the guidelines on maintenance of files and arrangement of papers, and drawn attention to bulkiness of files. Files which become bulky (say exceed 150 pages), second volume of such file should be opened. Further, the routine notes and correspondence should not be allowed to clutter up the files.

[GI MPPG&P DAR&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;PG O.M.No.22011/1/ 2004-O&M dt. 21-9-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(82)/98-O&M-II dt. 1-10-2004]

PROCUREMENT OF LICENCE BY NON-STATUTORY DEPTL. CANTEENS

In a recent court case, the Special Metropolitan Magistrate, NDMC, New Delhi has directed the Departmental Canteen under Ministry of Defence to procure "Health Licence" from the NDMC so that cleanliness could be maintained in the kitchen. Appropriate action to comply with the local Municipal Laws such as procuring licence for running the Canteens, etc. wherever such laws are applicable to the Canteen has to be initiated. All the Ministries/Departments are required to take adequate precautions such as procuring necessary licence for running the Canteen, ensuring hygienic and sanitary conditions in the Canteen and personal hygiene of its staff.

[GI DP&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;T O.M. No. 10/1/2004-Dire.(C) dt. 11-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 3-4]

AMENDMENT TO CCS (CCA) RULES

In Rule 11 for Item (iii a), of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965, the following shall be substituted, namely: "(iii a) reduction to lower stage in the time-scale of pay by one stage for a period not exceeding three years, without cumulative effect and not adversely affecting his pension."

[GI DP&T Notfn. No.11012/5/2003-Estt.(A) dt. 23-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 4-5]

RENEWAL OF SERVICES OF AMA’S AT KOLKATA

The services of a good number of Private Medical Practitioners are renewed as Authorized Medical Attendants (AMAs) on usual terms and conditions during the normal working hours for the treatment of CG Employees' and members of their family stationed at or passing through Kolkata and its adjoining Municipalities which are not covered by CGHS. The services of AMAs are also renewed for the above employees residing at the stations as mentioned in the O.M. against each AMA within a radius of 16 Km which are falling outside the definition of city limits of Kolkata for a period of one year from 1-8-2004.

[CGEWCC, Kolkata Lrs. No.CGEWCC/16/ 2004-05/18-AMA-1 & No.CGEWCC/16/2004-05/19-AMA-2 dt. 19-7-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 5-28]

ELIGIBILITY FOR FAMILY PENSION

Normally, son / daughter including widowed/divorced daughter shall be eligible for grant of family pension till he/she attains the age of 25 years or up to the date of his/her marriage/remarriage, whichever is earlier, subject to the condition that they shall not have an income exceeding Rs.2,550/- p.m. from employment in Govt., private sector, self-employment, etc. It has now been decided that there will be no age restriction in the case of the divorced/widowed daughter who shall be eligible for family pension even after attaining 25 years of age, subject to all other conditions prescribed in the case of son/ daughter. Such daughter, including disabled divorced/widowed daughter, shall not be required to come back to her parental home consequent to her widowhood or on being divorced as stipulated in O.M. dated 25-7-2001.

[GI DP&PW O.M.No.1/19/03-P&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;PW(E) dt. 25-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 29-30]

SPECIAL DRIVE TO FILL BACKLOG VACANCIES RESERVED FOR SC/ST IN PROMOTION QUOTA

Instructions have already been issued for conducting Special Recruitment Drive for filling the backlog reserved vacancies of SCs and STs in Direct Recruitment Quota. Similarly in case of promotion, all the backlog vacancies reserved for SCs and STs in promotion quota as on 1-7-2004 may be reviewed, and if the SC/ST candidates fit for promotion have become available, such vacancies may be filled immediately. As in the case of Direct Recruitment, backlog reserved vacancies have to be determined as per post-based reservation rosters. A report in prescribed proforma is required to sent to the Department by 31-12-2004.

[GI DP&T O.M.No.36038/2/2004-Estt. (Res.) dt.26-8-2004;Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 30-1]

PROVIDING PC AT THE RESIDENCES

Vide its O.M. dated 4-3-2002, the Ministry of Finance has notified provision of computers at the residence of Officers of the level of Joint Secretary or equivalent and above. In case of loss of such PCs, the loss will be recovered from the Officer based on the book value of the computer after allowing for depreciation of 15% per annum as stated at Item (v) of para 1 of O.M. dated 1-8-2000. The Officer concerned is free to insure the computer at his personal cost.

[GI MF O.M. No. 7(4)/E-Co-ord./99 dt. 29-7-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 32-4]

SENIOR CITIZEN SAVINGS SCHEME RULES, 2004

In order to encourage the senior citizens to save their earnings and at the same time earn an assured income, the Govt. of India have introduced "Senior Citizen Savings Scheme Rules, 2004". There shall be only one deposit in the account in multiple of one thousand rupees not exceeding Rs.15.00 lakhs. The deposit earns a simple interest of 9% p.a. which is payable quarterly. Pre-mature closing of the account is permissible only after one year from the date of deposit. Non-Resident Indians are not eligible to open an account under the scheme. For details, the original circular may be perused.

[GI MF Notfn.No.2-8/2004-NS.II dt. 2-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 37-43]

POSTING OF HUSBAND AND WIFE AT THE SAME STATION

The policy of the Govt. has been to give utmost importance to the enhancement of women's status in all walks of life. Keeping this policy in view, the Govt. had issued detailed guidelines about posting of husband and wife at the same station. It is impressed upon all the Ministries/ Departments that guidelines laid down in the Office Memoranda issued from time to time are strictly followed while deciding the requests for posting at the same station.

[GI DP&T O.M.No.28034/23/2004-Estt.(A) dt. 23-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 44]

SPECIAL CONCESSIONS FOR C.G. AND KASHMIR MIGRANT EMPLOYEES

The Department of J&K Affairs in the Ministry of Home Affairs reviewed the matter in consultation with this Department and it has been decided that the existing package of concessions/benefits such as (i) additional HRA and other concessions (ii) Messing facilities (iii) adjustment of migrant employees (iv) payment of leave salary/ad hoc financial assistance (v) regularization of the period of absence of J&K migrant employees (vi) drawal of pension, etc. extended to Central Govt. and Kashmir migrant employees working in Kashmir Valley up to 30-6-2004 may be continued further for a period of one year w.e.f. 1-7-2004 or until the law and order and security in the State shows visible improvement whichever is earlier.

[GI DP&T O.M. No. 18016/6/99-Estt.(L) dt. 27-8-2004; Swamysnews, Oct. 2004, 45-7]

DEARNESS PAY VIS-À-VIS OTHER ALLOWANCES

W.e.f. 1-4-2004, DA equal to 50% of the existing basic pay was merged with basic pay and shown distinctly as Dearness Pay (DP). The DP would count for all purposes like payment of allowances, retirement benefits, contribution to GPF/CPF, various advances, etc. The entitlements for LTC/LTA, TA/DA while on tour and transfer and accommodation would, however, continue to be governed on the basis of the basic pay alone. Transport Allowance is based on "scale of pay" and not on "pay". Hence, while the DP is treated as Basic Pay for all allowances, it will not be so for the purpose of Transport Allowance. The DP shall be excluded for purposes of determining the limit that Basic Pay + Non-Practising Allowance (NPA) which cannot exceed Rs.29,500/-. Further, DP will be computed @ 50% of the basic pay (excluding NPA) for Doctors also. NPA shall, however, be paid on basic pay plus DP.

[GI MF OM No.105/1/2004-IC dt.26-5-2004 & 7-6-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 32-3; Oct. 2004, 97]

October, 2004

COMMON IRREGULARITIES IN AWARD OF CONTRACTS

The Chief Technical Examiner (CTE) of the CVC conducts independent intensive examinations of various types of works and contracts executed by the organisations under its purview. The following lapses and deficiencies observed during the course of such examination are brought to the notice of the CVOs for suitable corrective action: 1. Appointment of Consultants continue to be done in an arbitrary manner. At times two of even three Consultants are appointed for a work with no clear cut and sometimes over- lapping responsibilities. 2. The tendency of over dependence on the Consultants continues. All activities are left to the Consultants. 3. Some organisations prefer limited tendering system, restricting competition to their approved contractors which is arbitrary and may lead to cartel formation and high rates. 4. The works are awarded without preparing any market rate justification. 5. Revised price bids were asked from all the bidders as rates were high vis-à-vis the estimate. The negotiation should have been held with the L-1 bidder, if required. 6. Provision of very small amount of Earnest Money is grossly insufficient to safeguard the organization’s interest in a high rate tenders running into several crores of rupees. 7. At times, post-award amendments were issued without taking into account the financial implications which are unwarranted and against the principles of competitive tendering. 8. The tender documents and the agreement are maintained in loose condition without page numbering and signing by both the parties which may also gives scope for interpolation and tampering of documents. Further it is not enforceable in a court of law. 9. Incomplete implementation of contract clauses pertaining to Insurance, Workmen’s Compensation Act, ESIC, Labour licences, etc. give undue benefit to the contractors. 10. The work is extended and payments are released without a valid extension to the agreement which may jeopardize the interest of the organisation. Timely extension to the contracts and Bank Guarantees must be ensured. [CVC (CTE) O.M. No.8/2/04 No.OFF-1-CTE-I dt. 5-2-2004; CSIR Lr. No. 15-1(120)/90-Vig. dt. 4-3-2004] WEBSITES FOR PROCUREMENT/SALE It has been noticed that many organisations whose Websites are functional are still not keeping their tenders on the website. The CVOs should regularly pursue the Newspaper advertisements, Website of their organisation in order to ensure compliance of the directive. [CVC Order No.98/ORD/1 dt. 9-2-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-II dt. 9-3-2004] AMENDMENT TO CCS (CCA) RULES, 1965 In the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965, in Rule 14, in sub-rule (2) before the Explanation, the following proviso shall be inserted, namely: “Provided that where there is a complaint of sexual harassment within the meaning of Rule 3 C of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964, the Complaints Committee established in each Ministry or Department or Office for inquiring into such complaints, shall be deemed to be the Inquiring Authority appointed by the disciplinary authority for the purpose of these rules and the Complaints Committee shall hold the inquiry as far as practicable in accordance with the procedure laid down in these rules, if separate procedure has not been prescribed for the Complaints Committee for holding the inquiry in to the complaints of sexual harassment,.” [GoI MPPG&P (DOPT) Notfn. F.No.11012/5/ 2001-Estt.(A) dt. 1-7-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(82)/98-O&M dt. 9-9-2004] LEAVE TRAVEL CONCESSION BY AIR In relaxation of Rule 12 (1) of the CCS (LTC) Rules, 1988, the Govt. have now decided to permit, w.e.f. 16-6-2004, Group A and B Govt. servants to travel on LTC by Air in Economy (Y) class in national carrier between New Delhi and Srinagar for a period of two years and allow air fare reimbursement accordingly, provided they avail All India LTC and that New Delhi is the originating or is en route to Srinagar. [GI DP&T OM No. 31011/2/2003-Estt.(A) dt. 16-6-2004; CSIR Endt. No. 9(131)04-S-3 dt. 10-9-2004] TIME-LIMITS IN DISCIPLINARY CASES The schedule of time limits in conducting investigations and departmental inquiries laid down in CVC’s letter dated 23-5-2000 and GoI DoPT O.M. No. 11013/2/2004-Estt.(A) dt. 16-2-2004 regarding accountability for delay in decision making are not being strictly adhered to. Delay in decision-making by authorities in processing of vigilance cases would also be construed as misconduct under relevant rules and liable to attract penal action. [CVC’s Order No.000/VGL/18 dt. 10-8-2004; CSIR Lr.No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-II dt. 12-9-2004] INTEREST ON CONVEYANCE ADVANCE The rates of interest for advances sanctioned to the Govt. servants for purchase of conveyances during 2004-05 will continue to be at the same level as for 2003-04 as given hereunder: For Bicycle … 5.5% For Motor cycle/Scooter … 8.0% For Motor car … 11.5% [GI MF DEA O.M. F. No. 5(2)-PD/2004 dt. 22-7-2004; Swamysnews Sept. 2004, 23] ACCRUAL OF INTEREST ON GPF During the year 2004-05, accumulations at the credit of subscribers to the GPF/CPF and other similar funds shall continue to carry interest at the rate of 8%. [GI MF DEA Resol. No. F. 5(1)-PD/2004 dt. 22-7-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 23] ALLOTMENT OF RESIDENCES FROM GENERAL POOL IN DELHI In the Allotment of Govt. Residences (General Pool in Delhi) Rules, 1963, in SR 317-B-4, in Sub-rule 4 (1), for the proviso, the following proviso shall be substituted, namely: “Provided that this sub-rule shall not apply where the wife and husband are residing separately in pursuance of: (i) an order of judicial separation made by any Court; or (ii) an order to proceed to frame and record the issues for settlement of the proceedings by any Court in which a petition filed by the wife or husband, as the case may be, for dissolution of marriage by a decree of divorce is pending and the wife or husband, as the case may be, has furnished an undertaking that she or he will surrender the residence allotted to her or him forthwith in case of revival of conjugal rights with her or his spouse. [GI MUD Notfn. No. 12035/19/2002 dt. 5-6-2003; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 24] UPGRADATION OF PAY SCALES OF TRANSLATORS (CENTRAL SECRETARIAT) Sanction of the President of India is accorded for the following scales of pay of the Translators of Central Secretariat Official Language Service on notional basis w.e.f. 1-1-1996 and for actual payment w.e.f. 11-2-2003: Designation with Substituted scale of pay Scale of pay Jr. Translator Rs.5500-175-9000 (Rs.5000-150-8000) Sr. Translator Rs.6500-200-10500 Rs.5500-175-9000 Asst. Director (OL) Rs.7500-250-12000 Rs.6500-200-10500 [GI DOL Office Order No.13/6/2002-OL (Services) dt. 2-4-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 24] INCENTIVE FOR FRESH HIGHER QUALIFICATION Vide GI DOPT O.M.No.1/2/89-Estt.(Pay-I) dated 9-4-1999, lump sum incentive is admissible on acquiring the qualifications listed therein after the date of issue of these orders. It has been decided that the benefit of lump sum incentive in terms of above O.M. "prior to issue of the O.M." may also be granted to Govt. servants who had acquired the qualification listed in the O.M. cited prior to its issue but had not availed any incentive either in the form of advance increments or incentive shall be subject to the fulfilment of prescribed conditions. [GI DOP&T O.M. No. 1/2/89-Estt.(Pay-I) dt. 1-7-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 25] REGULATION OF PAY OF OFFICERS OF GR. “A” ON THEIR APPOINTMENT TO POSTS IN THE CENTRAL SECRETARIAT Vide Para 8 of the GI DoPT O.M.No.2/8/ 97-Estt.(Pay-II) dated 9-4-2001, application of the orders contained in the O.M. regarding regulation of pay of Officers of Group "A" on their appointment to posts in the Central Secretariat under the Central Staffing Scheme shall be effective from their date of issue and past cases of Officers who have already completed their Central deputation and have reverted to their respective parent cadres shall not, however, be re-opened. It has now been re-considered and decided that the orders contained in the O.M. cited to shall also apply to such of the Officers also who were on deputation in the Centre during the period prior to 9-4-2001 but had repatriated to their cadre before that date. [GI DOPT O.M. No. 2/8/97-Estt.(Pay.II) dt. 11-7-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 26] GPF ACCUMULATION OF CW (TS) UNDER NEW PENSION SCHEME In the light of introduction of New Pension Scheme in respect of persons appointed to the Central Govt. service on or after 1-1-2004, it has been decided to modify the scheme as under: As the new Pension Scheme is based on defined contributions, the length of qualifying service for the purpose of retirement benefits has lost its relevance, no credit of casual service as specified in Para 5 (v) shall be available to casual labourers on their regularization against Gr. D posts on or after 1-1-2004. As there is no provision of GPF in the new Pension Scheme, no further deductions shall be effected from the casual labourers w.e.f. 1-1-2004 onwards. The amount lying in their GPF accounts including the deductions made after 1-1-2004 shall be paid to them. However, interest on the GPF accumulations of the casual labourers bestowed with temporary status can be allowed up to 30-4-2004. [GI DoPT O.M. No. 49014/1/2004-Estt. (C) dt.26-4-2004 & 23-7-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 26-7] CLARIFICATION ON ACP SCHEME A doubt has been expressed as to whether the requirement of fulfilment of all promotional norms even for ACP Scheme will include the requirement of fulfilment of minimum eligibility service prescribed in the Recruitment Rules for promotion to next higher grade to the hierarchy. It is understood that certain Departments are insisting on completion of 2 years regular service before grant of first financial up-gradation under ACP Scheme in the grade of Peon in respect of Safaiwalas, Malis, Watchmen, etc. who were appointed as Peon in the same pay scale on lateral transfer basis under the 25% quota earmarked for them even though they have completed the required 12 years regular service in that grade at the time of appointment as Peon or immediately thereafter. From a harmonious reading of condition No.6 of the ACP Scheme with the other conditions and stipulations of the Scheme issued from time to time, it is clear that a person is eligible in all other aspects such as educational qualification, departmental examination, skill/trade test, benchmark, etc. to hold the higher post in terms of the Recruitment Rules, the scale of which is being considered under the ACP Scheme, in so far as the requirement of “eligibility service” is concerned, the only requirement is that, he should have completed the prescribed 12 or 24 years’ regular service. In view of the above, a Safaiwala, Mali, Watchman, etc. when appointed as Peon may be considered for grant of first financial up-gradation on completion of 12 years’ regular service in the grade of Rs.2550-3200 (S-1) including the past service in that grade without insistence on further completion of 2 years regular service in the grade of Peon. [GI DOPT O.M. No. 35014/1/2003-Estt.(D) dt. 29-6-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 27-8] DPC IN R/O OF PERSONS ON LONG LEAVE In terms of MHA DPAR O.M.No.22013/ 8/80-Estt. dated 28-9-1981, it was decided that a person who is on long leave and could not be promoted should be treated to have notionally promoted, if a junior in the same panel is regularly promoted for the purpose of being taken off the panel only, subject to the actual effect being given on return from leave. This benefit would not be admissible in cases where persons have refused promotion. A doubt has come as to whether persons on leave who do not join the higher post while on leave will be required to be considered afresh by a fresh DPC and how their seniority will be fixed. It has been clarified with regard to the procedure to be adopted that If on the basis of empanelment for promotion against vacancies arising in a vacancy year, a promotion order contains the name of a person who is on a sanctioned leave, a copy of the same is to be endorsed to the Officer at his leave address by Registered/Speed post, etc. along with necessary advice about the authority to whom he is to report for assuming charge of the higher post. If the Officer assumes charge of the higher promotional post by curtailing leave, if necessary, within the currency of the vacancy year for which the panel is prepared or within 6 months from the date of the promotion order or before the last person borne on the panel is offered promotion without being required to be re-assessed by a fresh DPC whichever is later, the Officer will not be required to be considered afresh by the next DPC and he will retain his seniority as per the position in the panel on the basis of which he has been promoted. If he does not assume charge of the higher post within the period as specified above and continues to remain on long leave or seeks further extension of leave, the order of promotion, in so far as the said Officer is concerned will become invalid and the Officer will be required to be considered afresh by the next DPC held in the normal course after he joins his duty on expiry of the leave. His seniority on subsequent promotion will be as per the position in the fresh panel. This will equally apply to cases of promotion by mode of Selection as well as Non-Selection. While referring the order of promotion to the Officer on leave, it would be necessary to bring to his/her notice the above position. Cases of persons on long leave due to proven physical disability, persons on study leave/training will continue to be regulated as per the existing provisions of DPC guidelines. [GI DOPT O.M. No.20034/5/2002-Estt.(D) dt. 4-8-2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 29-30] SHORT TERM ASSIGNMENTS ABROAD Further to the Consolidated Instructions on Foreign Assignment of Indian Experts, 1991 regarding acceptance of an offer of assignment made by an International agency directly by a Govt. servant, it has been decided that the senior civil servants of and above the level of Joint Secretary to the Govt. of India of all services either working at the Centre or with the State Govts. should interact with International Agencies only in their official capacity and may not accept consultancy assignments with such agencies. [GI DOPT Lr. No. 1/10/2001-FA(UN) dt. 21-7- 2004; Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 36-7] ENCASHMENT OF HALF PAY LEAVE Encashment of Half Pay Leave at one’s own credit is admissible in terms of GID (12) below Rule 39 of CCS (Leave) Rules. In case of death while in service also, the family is entitled to get this benefit. The Family Pension has to be deducted from the HPL salary. [Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 105-6] SANDWICHING SPECIAL CASUAL LEAVE As per CCS (Leave) Rules, 1972, Special Casual Leave may be suffixed or prefixed to any other kind of leave including Maternity leave. But it cannot be sandwiched between two spells of leave. [Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 106] FOOT JOURNEY WHILE ON LTC In terms of Rule 12 (2) of CCS (LTC) Rules, 1988 according to which for travel under LTC to a place where public transport system does not exist, the assistance has to be regulated as in the case of journeys undertaken on transfer. In other words, mileage allowance is admissible for LTC for journey on foot. [Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 110] SUBSCRIPTION UNDER CGEGIS In terms of C&AG’s Decision under Para 9.8 of CGEGIS, 1980, when an official is appointed to a post on deputation basis, the rate of subscription under the CGEGIS, 1980 is to be determined with reference to the post to which any one on regular basis has been appointed. Deputation is one of the methods of recruitment for the post. [Swamysnews, Sept. 2004, 111] ERRATA The following item which appeared in Aug. 2004 of “HARMONY” at page 5, col. 1 may be read by deleting the high-lighted words "and Technical”. Error regretted. Ed. RELAXATION IN ASSESSMENT OF SC/ST CATEGORIES OF S&T STAFF In continuation of their letter No.7-1(2)/ 2002-R&A dated 16-10-2003, CSIR have informed that as per the clarification received from the DoPT, no relaxation in assessment of SC/ST categories of staff among Scientific "and Technical" cadres will be given. This comes into force with immediate effect. [CSIR Lr.No.7-1(2)/2002-R&A dt. 7-4-2004] The following corrections are to be incorporated in the article entitled “CSIR SCIENTIST RECRUITMENT & ASSESS-MENT PROMOTION RULES, 2001” which appeared in the August 2004 issue of “HARMONY”. Ed. Page 12, column 1; 1st paragraph under “Recruitment & Assessment Board”: 3rd Sentence may be replaced as under: “Such Panel will be valid for a period of 3 years. Any name be added/deleted during the currency of the panel with the approval of CSIR.” Page 13, column 1, 3rd para, item No. ii) may be replaced with the following: Two External Experts Members - to be nominated by the - Chairperson of the Board. Page 16, 1st para (including item Nos. (i), (ii) & (iii) after “Quorum” may be replaced with the following: “In case of Scientist Gr.IV (5) and above, the DG shall constitute an Internal Screening Committee to review the Confidential Performance Appraisal Reports and any other relevant records of all the Scientists completing the prescribed residence period for shortlisting and recommending the candidates for assessment interview by the Assessment Committee.” Page 17, column 2, item No.(iii) of 1st & 2nd paras may be read as: “iii) Two external Experts - Members - to be nominated by the Chairperson of the Board.” [Courtesy: Mrs. Simesh Verma, SO (G), CSIR HQs.] Errors regretted. Ed. September, 2004 INTRODUCTION OF CVC ACT Consequent upon introduction of CVC Act, the proceedings before the CVC shall be deemed to be Judicial Proceedings and for conducting inquiries, the CVC is vested with the powers of Civil Court under the CPC. No suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against the Commission, the Commissioner or the Secretary or against any staff of the Commission in respect of any issue which is done in good faith. Whenever the CVC is made a party, the provision of Section 15 of CVC Act be brought to the notice of the Court through Advocate so as to effect deletion of its name. [CSIR Lr. No. 36-37/71/2003-Law dt. 19-1-2004] NETWORK PROJECTS IN CSIR The Director-General, CSIR has constituted a Committee for governance of the Network Projects in CSIR. The composition of the Committee is: Dr. T. Ramasami, D/CLRI Chairman Dr. V. Prakash, D/CFTRI Member Dr. H.S. Maiti, D/CGCRI Member Dr. Sukumar Devotta, D/NEERI Member Smt. Rama Murali, FA, CSIR Member Shri Sudhir Kumar, JS(A), CSIR Member Dr. O.P. Agarwal, H/RDPD, CSIR Member-Convener Terms of reference: i) to formulate guidelines governing implementation of net work projects with a view to utilize resources optimally; ii) provide information to the management to monitor the pace of technical/physical and financial progress. The guidelines so formulated are expected to help as an aid to CSIR for better management in planning, monitoring and reviewing of the programmes, projects and activities of the Laboratory. [CSIR OM No. 41/9(I)/Guidelines/2004-RDPD dt. 4-2-2004] ANNUAL REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE In continuation of its letter dated 25-2-2004 on the subject, CSIR have forwarded a correct version of Annual Review of Performance (ARP) for incorporating necessary corrections while getting ARP Forms printed by the individual Labs./Instts. [CSIR Lr. No. 5-17/70/2002-PPS dt. 25-2-2004] DISPOSAL OF COMPLAINTS In cases where a complaint does not attract vigilance angle or if the issue is of petty nature which could be settled at the level of the organization, the CVC forwards such a complaint to the organization for necessary action at their end to redress the grievance of the complainant. Action on these complaints is not required to be reported to the CVC for further advice until and unless some thing more serious is brought out during the investigation. If any complaint is sent for action and report, the organization should submit an investigation report strictly within 3 months of receipt of complaint for obtaining necessary advice of the CVC. [GI CVC Order No.16/03/04 dt. 1-4-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(83)/98-O&M dt. 9-5-2004] PRE-QUALIFICATION CRITERIA CTE (CVC) have prescribed guidelines through their O.M. dated 17/12/2002 on Pre-Qualification (PQ) criteria to ensure that the PQ criteria specified in the tender document should neither be made very stringent nor very lax to restrict/facilitate the entry of bidders. It is clarified that the guidelines issued are illustrative and the organizations may suitably modify them for specialized jobs, if considered necessary. It should be ensured that the PQ criteria are exhaustive yet specific and expressed in unambiguous terms to effect fair competition. [GI CVC O.M.No.12-02-1-CTE-6 dt. 7-5-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-1(120)/90-Vig. dt. 16-6-2004] DAAD RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS DAAD has invited applications for the Research Fellowships for Doctoral study for the year 2005-06. The information has been uploaded on CSIR http://www.csir.res.in and ISTAD http://www.csirwebistad.org websites The applications of eligible candidates may be forwarded to DAAD after thorough evaluation and screening. The names of the recommended candidates along with the name of the scheme applied for may be sent to ISTAD/CSIR. It may be noted that DAAD has recently decided to operate its Fellowships through a different selection procedure. The exclusive 20 slots of DAAD Fellowships for CSIR, MHRD and UGC would no longer exist and now be open to all. It means that CSIR Scientists desirous of availing DAAD Fellowship would have to apply directly to DAAD through the Lab. They have to compete with nationwide applicants for final selection. The last date for receipt of applications at DAAD, New Delhi Office is 1-10-2004. [CSIR Lr. No. 19(206)/DFAAD/97-ISTAD dt. 26-7-2004] MOBILIZATION ADVANCE Adequate steps may be taken to ensure stipulation of mobilization advance only for selected works and advance should be interest-bearing so that contractor does not draw undue benefit. Timely execution/ completion of all projects is an essential requirement and the contractor would like to draw interest-bearing mobilization advance only when he needs to maintain his cash flow. In further modification of above, the following provisions have been included on the subject: (i) if the advance is to be given, it should be expressly stated in the NIT Bid documents indicating the amount, rate of interest and submission of Bank Guarantee. (ii) the advance payment maybe released in stages depending upon the progress of the work and mobilization of required equipments, etc.; and (iii) there should be a provision in the contract for adjustment of advance progressively even as the bills are cleared for payment. [GI CVC (CTE) O.M.No.4CC-1-CTE-2 (40/6/04) dt.8-6-2004; CSIR Lr.No.15-1(120)/ 90-Vig. dt. 29-7-2004] MEDICAL IDENTITY CARD FOR PENSIONERS As per CSIR instructions on extending medical facilities to its Pensioners, it is compulsory for all the Pensioners to enroll themselves for availing medical facility by making lump sum one-time contribution. Pensioners on having deposited the lump sum one-time contribution for availing medical facility have to be issued a permanent Medical Identity Card which would be 13 x 8 cm in size and light blue in colour containing the details as per specimen enclosed with CSIR letter. [CSIR Lr. No. 35-04(31)/02-PW&PG dt. 29-7-2004] JURISDICTION OF CVC IN RELATION TO THE GR. B OFFICERS (GAZETTED) The CVC has clarified that their Circular No.98/VGL/15 (Office Order No.26/4/04) dated 16/4/2004 which is available on its Website www.cvc.nic.in is not applicable to Autonomous organisations such as CSIR. The CVC’s jurisdiction over the Officers of Autonomous Organizations / Societies would continue as per existing guidelines. [CSIR Lr.No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-IIdt.30-7-2004] USE OF ACRONYMS IN GOVT. OFFICES With a view to avoid use of unexplained acronyms and other confusing units of various measures in the communications, the following points are required to be kept in view: a) Use of acronyms for terms that are not commonly used may be avoided. b) All acronyms used in the text of notes/proposals are to be explained when the term is first used in the note by writing its full form with the acronym given in brackets. c) Each Ministry/Department may prepare a standardized list of commonly used acronyms and notified. d) Each Ministry may prepare guidelines regarding the units and their symbols to be used with various numerical magnitude/ quantities as also guidelines regarding rounding of numbers. [GI Cabinet Secretariat D.O.No.1/13/4/2004-Cab. dt. 27-7-2004; CSIR Endt. No.17(68)/ 2004-E.II dt. 12-8-2004] NEW PENSION SCHEME Consequent upon introduction of New Pension Scheme w.e.f. 1-1-2004, It has been decided to allow interest on the GPF accumulations of the Casual Workers who are conferred with Temporary Status up to 31-3-2004. [GI MPPG&P OM No.49014/1/2004-Estt.(C) dt. 23-7-2004; CSIR Endt. No.17(28)/2001-E.II dt. 16-8-2004] REVISED FLAT RATES OF LICENCE FEE The Govt. has revised the flat rates of licence fee recoverable for the residential accommodation available in General Pool and also in Departmental Pools w.e.f. 1-7-2004. [GI MUD OM No. 8011/4/2003-Pool.III dt. 22-6 2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 26] RECOGNITION OF PRIVATE HOSPITALS Item Code No.3.21 of the specialized procedure/investigations in Annexure C of the O.M. dated 17-9-2002 (notifying the recognition of private hospitals/diagnostic centers under CGHS, Pune), the package ceiling rate for Mitral Replacement in semi-private ward may be corrected to read as Rs.1,36,000/- (instead of Rs.13,600/-). [GI MH&FW OM No.S-11011/37/2001-CGHS Desk-II/CGHS(P)dt.17-3-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 28] DA IN RESPECT OF OPTEES OF PRE-REVISED SCALES OF PAY Revised rates of DA in respect of employees of CG and autonomous bodies who continue to draw their pay and emoluments in the pre-revised scale of pay in such cases from 1-1-2004 would be as follows: Pay up to Rs.3,500/- p.m. 301% Pay above Rs.2,500/- and up 226% to Rs.6,000/- p.m. (Rs.10,535/-) Pay above Rs.6,000/- p.m. 196% (Rs.13,560/-) [GI MF OM No.1(13)/97-E.II(B) dt. 30-4-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 31-2] MERGER OF 50% DA/DR WITH BASIC PAY/PENSION W.e.f. 1-4-2004, DA equal to 50% of the existing basic pay would be merged with basic pay and shown distinctly as Dearness Pay (DP) in respect of all employees of autonomous bodies following CG pattern of pay scales/allowances. The DP would count for all purposes like payment of allowances, retirement benefits, contribution to GPF/CPF, various advances, etc. The entitlements for LTC/LTA, TA/DA while on tour and transfer and accommodation would, however, continue to be governed on the basis of the basic pay alone. The DR of the existing pensioners equal to 50% of their pension will be merged with pension and shown distinctly as Dearness Pension with immediate effect. DA/DR converted into Dearness Pay/Pension respectively would be deducted from the existing rate of DA/DR. In order to ensure that the employees retiring between 1-4-2004 and 31-1-2005 do not face any loss in fixation of pension, DA equal to 50% of the basic pay would be treated as basic pay for purposes of computation of pension as a special dispensation, in respect of basic pay received by them prior to 1-4-2004. Consequently, the element of Dearness Pension will exist only for pensioners retired/retiring up to 31-3-2004. [GI MF OM No.105/1/2004-IC dt. 26-5-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 32] NPA FOR CALCULATION OF D.P. W.e.f. 1-4-2004, Dearness Pay (DP) shall be excluded for purposes of determining the limit that Basic Pay + Non-Practising Allowance cannot exceed Rs.29,500/-. Further, as in the case of all other CG employees, DP will be computed @ 50% of the basic pay (excluding NPA) for Doctors also. NPA shall, however, be paid on basic pay plus DP. [GI MF OM No.105/1/2004-IC dt. 7-6-2004 and 11-6-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 33] MINIMUM PENSION/FAMILY PENSION In terms of para 3 of GI DP&PW O.M. No. 42/2/2004-P&PW(G) dated 15-3-2004, it is clearly said that since 50% of DA converted into DP is counted for retirement benefits, pension/family pension shall be calculated at 50% and 30% respectively of the pay plus DP subject to a minimum of Rs.1,913/- and maximum of 50% on the 30% respectively of the highest pay plus DP in the Govt. provision contained in paras 5 & 7.1 of O.M. dated 27-10-1997 therefore stand amended to this extent. Accordingly, the Pension would now be calculated at 50% of the average emoluments in all cases subject to 50% of the highest pay in the Govt. plus highest DP. The highest pay in the Govt. w.e.f. 1-1-1996 is Rs.30,000/-. As per the provisions of O.M. dated 15-3-2004, the highest pension as of now comes to Rs.22,500/- i.e. Basic pension Rs.15,000 + DP Rs.7,500 = Total Pension Rs.22,500/-. [GI DP&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;PW OM No. 42/2/2004-P&PW(G) dt. 21-6-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 33-4] TATA INDIGO GLX AS STAFF CAR Besides the models of staff cars listed in GI MF OM No. 3(4)/E.II(A)/99 dated 27-11-2003, TATA Indigo GLX has also been included in the list of approved models of staff car in AC category to be purchased through DGS&D rate contract for being used only by the Ministries and Officers of the level of Secretary to the GoI and above. [GI MF OM No.3(4)/E.II(A)/99 dt. 11-12-2003; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 35] LEAVE TRAVEL CONCESSION BY AIR In relaxation of Rule 12 (1) of the CCS (LTC) Rules, 1988, the Govt. have now decided to permit, w.e.f. 16-6-2004, Group A and B Govt. servants to travel on LTC by Air in Economy (Y) class in national carrier between New Delhi and Srinagar for a period of two years and allow air fare reimbursement accordingly, provided they avail All India LTC and that New Delhi is the originating or is en route to Srinagar. [GI DP&T OM No. 31011/2/2003-Estt.(A) dt. 16-6-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 35] MERGER OF 50% DA WITH BASIC PAY IN R/O CASUAL WORKERS It has been decided that 50% of the DA merged with the basic pay will be admissible to casual workers with temporary status and also to casual employees who are entitled to daily rate of wages with reference to the minimum of the pay scale for corresponding regular Gr. D official w.e.f. 1-4-2004 for the purpose of computation of their daily rates of wages. Those who are entitled to daily wages not linked to the minimum of the pay scale plus DA for corresponding Gr. D employees or casual workers/contingent employees engaged on part-time basis are not entitled to the above benefit. [GI DP&T OM No. 49014/5/2004-Estt.(C) dt. 31-5-2004; Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 36] REPLACEMENT OF HEARING AIDS If the hearing aid of a child (below 12 years) of Govt. servant gets damaged after 3 years of its purchase, it can be replaced on the basis of a certificate of condemnation from a technical expert and on the advice of an ENT Specialist of a Govt. Hospital. These orders would also be applicable in the case of CGHS beneficiaries. [GI MH&FW OM No.S.14025/5/2004-MS dt. 3-6-2004/7-7-2004;Swamysnews, Aug. 2004] STOPPAGE OF RETIRAL BENEFITS As per Rule 69 read with Rule 9 of CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972, payment of retiral benefits may be stopped only if the employee is facing criminal or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct while discharging official duties. [Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 102-3] PAY ON PROMOTION TO A POST HELD EARLIER In terms of FR 22 (I) when an employee is promoted to a post which he held on earlier occasion even on ad hoc basis, fixation of his pay should not be less than the pay drawn on such occasion. [Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 105-6] MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT When both husband and wife are Govt. employees, both of them can claim medical reimbursement for their respective parents, subject to the conditions that the income from all sources of such parents should be less than Rs.1,500/- and they should reside with the concerned Govt. servant or with the rest of the family members. [Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 107-8] MONETARY LIMIT FOR DEPENDENCY As per para 2 of Chapter-I under Section-4 “Concession for families” of CS (MA) Rules, 1944, parents who reside with a Govt. servant are considered to be wholly dependent only when their income from all sources including pension and excluding relief on pension which was sanctioned after Dec. 1995 is less than Rs.1,500/- p.m. From 1-4-2004, 50% of pension is taken as DP and hence this limit of Rs.1,500/- is yet to be enhanced by the Govt. [Swamysnews, Aug. 2004, 108] August, 2004 DIFFERENCE OF OPINION BETWEEN CBI AND ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITIES Where there is difference of opinion between the Department and the CBI in cases where the latter have recommended prosecution, the Commission would hold a joint meeting with the representatives of CBI and concerned Department. The CVO of the department should take a brief from the Disciplinary Authority before attending the meeting. The DA is free to attend the meeting. [GoI CVC Order No.1/1/04 dt. 8-1-2004] CVC’S ADVICE IN COMPOSITE CASES If an employee of a PSU is involved in a case which falls within the CVC’s jurisdiction, advice of the latter would be required and any decision of the Disciplinary Authority at this juncture has to be treated as tentative. Such reference would be required to be made even in respect of an officer who is not within the CVC’s jurisdiction, if he is involved along with other officers who are within the jurisdiction of the CVC as the case would then become a composite case and falls within the CVC’s jurisdiction. The CVC reiterates that a composite case should be processed as ‘one’ and action against every individual employee should be taken only on CVC’s advice, even if there is only one official who falls within CVC’s jurisdiction. [GoI CVC Lr.No.000/VGL/187 dt. 8-1-2004] RESIDENTIAL TELEPHONE OF JS (A) The residential telephone number of the Joint Secretary (Admn.), CSIR has been changed to 28741706. [CSIR O.M.No.8-8(8)/2002-Gen.dt.15-1-2004] CONFERENCE MATERIAL It has been observed that supplying bags and similar other material while conducting seminars/conferences does not have much utility. From the view point of economy, it would be appropriate, if such purchases are resorted to only if substantial amount of expenditure on this account is met out of the external non-Govt. resources. [CSIR O.M. No. 8-13(12)/2004-Gen. dt. 16-1-2004] INVALIDATION OF A GOVT. SERVANT Section 47 of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995 has been amended, the gist of which is given hereunder: 1. No establishment shall dispense with or reduce in rank of an employee who acquires a disability during his service and the employee who has acquired disability, if he is not suitable for the post he was holding, could be shifted to some other post with the same pay scale and service benefits. In case it is not possible to adjust him against any post, he may be kept on supernumerary post until a suitable post is available or he attains the age of superannuation whichever is earlier. 2. No promotion shall be denied to a person merely on the ground of his disability. Govt. may having regard to the type of work carried on in any establishment may exempt from provision of this Section. Accordingly, Rule 20 (2) of CCS (Leave) Rules, 1972 shall be: (a) if he is on duty, he shall not be invalidated from service during his service period. (b) if he is already on leave, the period of leave or an extension thereafter to the extent permissible under sub-rule (1) of this rule and even beyond that may be granted under relevant rule(s). [GoI MPPG&P DP&T O.M.No.13015/3/2002-Estt.(L) dt. 19-1-2004; CSIR Endt. No.17(68)/ 2003-E.II dt. 23-2-2004] INTENSIVE EXAMINATION OF WORKS BY CTE The monetary limits in respect of Electrical/ Mechanical and other Allied Works are revised from Rs.15.00 to Rs.30.00 lakhs by the Chief Technical Examiner (CVC). [GoI CVC O.M.No.OFF-1-CTE-1(Pt.) dt. 23-12-03; CSIR Lr.No.15-1(120)/90-Vig. dt. 27-1-2004] AMENDMENT TO CCS (CCA) RULES, 1965 In consultation with C&AG of India, the President amends Rule 10 (Suspension), and after sub-rule 5 of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965, the following sub-rules shall be inserted, namely: (6) An order of suspension made or deemed to have been made under this rule shall be reviewed by the authority competent to modify or revoke the suspension, before expiry of ninety days from the date of order of suspension, on the recommendation of the Review Committee constituted for the purpose and pass orders either extending or revoking the suspension. Subsequently the case shall be reviewed before expiry of the extended period of suspension. Extension of suspension shall not be for a period exceeding one hundred and eighty days at a time. (7) Not withstanding anything contained in sub-rule 5, an order of suspension made or deemed to have been made under sub-rules (1) or (2) of this rule shall not be valid after a period of ninety days unless it is extended after review, for a further period before the expiry of ninety days. [GoI MPPG&P DP&T Notfn. F.No.11012/4/ 2003-Estt.(A) dt. 23-12-2003] REVIEW OF SUSPENSION Consequent on amendment of Rule 10 of CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965, it has become necessary to constitute a Review Committee to review the suspension cases. The composition of the Review Committee shall be: i) The Disciplinary Authority and another Officer of the level of Disciplinary Authority/ Appellate Authority (DA/AA) from the same Office or from another Central Govt. Office, in case another Officer of same level is not available in the same Office, and in a case where the President is not the DA or the AA. ii) The DA and two Officers of the level of Secretary/Addl. Secretary/Jt. Secretary who are equivalent or higher in rank than the DA from the same Office or from another CG Office, in case another Officer of the same level is not available in the same Office. In a case where the DA is the President, the Administrative Min./Dept./Office concerned may constitute the Review Committees on permanent/ad hoc basis. iii) The Review Committee may take a view regarding revocation/continuation of the suspension keeping in view the facts and circumstances of the case and also taking into account that unduly long suspension, while putting the employee concerned to undue hardship, involve payment of subsistence allowance without the employee performing any useful service to the Govt. Without prejudice to the foregoing, if the Officer has been under suspension for one year without any charges being filed in a Court of Law or no charge memorandum has been issued in a departmental enquiry, he shall ordinarily be reinstated in service without prejudice to the case against him. However, in case the Officer is in police/judicial custody or is accused of a serious crime or a matter involving national security, the Review Committee may recommend the continuation of the suspension. Further CSIR have conveyed that the Review Committee to consider the orders of suspension may be formed at the Labs./Instts. which shall consist of besides the Disciplinary Authority, another Officer of the same rank either within the Lab./Instt. or outside of it nominated as the other member of the Committee. All the cases of suspension in the Labs. may be reviewed within the period stipulated and such cases be forwarded to CSIR HQs. for placing before DG, CSIR who will be the third member of the Review Committee. In respect of Officers whose Disciplinary/ Appellate Authority is President, the cases of suspension will be handled on case to case basis at the CSIR HQs. [GoI MPPG&P DP&T O.M.No.11012/4/2003-Estt.(A) dt. 7-1-2004; CSIR Lr.No.15-1(60)/81-Vig. dt 30-1-2004 & dt. 31-3-2004] DEFINITION OF VIGILANCE ANGLE According to CVC, Vigilance angle is obvious in the following acts: i) Demanding and/or accepting gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act or for using his influence with any other official. ii) Obtaining valuable thing, without/ inadequate consideration from a person with whom he has or likely to have official dealings or his subordinates have official dealings or where he can exert influence. iii) Obtaining for himself or for any other person any valuable thing or pecuniary advantage by corrupt or illegal means or by abusing his position as a public servant. iv) Possession of assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. v) Cases of misappropriation, forgery or cheating or other similar criminal offences. However, in certain other irregularities where circumstances will have to be weighed carefully to take a view whether the officer’s integrity is in doubt. Gross or willful negligence; recklessness in decision making; blatant violations of systems and procedures; exercise of discretion in excess, where no ostensible/public interest is evident; failure to keep the controlling authority/superiors informed in time, etc. Whether a person of common prudence, working within the ambit of the prescribed rules, regulations and instructions, would have taken the decision in the prevailing circum- stances in the commercial/operational interests of the organisation is one possible criterion for determining the bona fides of the case. Absence of vigilance angle in various acts of omission and commission does not mean that the concerned official is not liable to face consequences of the actions. [GoI CVC Office Order No.23/04/04 dt. 13-4-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-II dt. 19-5-2004] ANNUAL REVIEW OF PERFORMANCE In continuation of its letter dated 25-2-2004 on the subject, CSIR have forwarded a correct version of Annual Review of Performance (ARP) for incorporating necessary corrections while getting ARP Forms printed by the individual Labs./Instts. [CSIR Lr.No.5-17/70/2002-PPS dt. 25-2-2004] COMMUNICATIONS FROM MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT The Secretary to the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, GoI has emphasized the need to follow the instructions contained in Para 63, 66 and 127 of the Central Secretariat Manual of Office Procedure with regard to acknowledgement of letters received from Hon’ble Members of Parliament. It was also advised the senior Officers to monitor regularly in their departmental meetings. [GoI MPPG&P D.O.No.48011/5/2003-O&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;M dt. 2-1-2004;CSIR Lr.No.17(68)/2003-E.II dt.26-2-2004] REVISION OF HONORARIUM TO INQUIRY OFFICERS The honorarium payable to retired Govt. servants who act as Inquiry Officers has been enhanced from Rs.5000/- to Rs.6500/- plus Rs.1000/- for every additional charged Officer to cover the conveyance and clerical expenses. [GoI MPPG&P DP&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;T O.M.No.134/4/99-AVD-I dt. 7-4-2003; CSIR Lr.No.15-6(82)/ 98-O&M dt. 19-3-04] CASES WITHOUT VIGILANCE ANGLE The CVC while clarifying on the subject have advised that in cases where the lapses are not having vigilance angle, it does not mean that no disciplinary proceedings have to be taken. In such cases the disciplinary authority may take appropriate action under the Conduct and Disciplinary Rules and the matter need not be referred to the Commission again for consultation. [GoI CVC Order No.004/VGL/3 dt. 19-2-2004] RELAXATION IN ASSESSMENT OF SC/ST CATEGORIES OF S&T STAFF In continuation of their letter No.7-1(2)/ 2002-R&A dated 16-10-2003, CSIR have informed that as per the clarification received from the DoPT, no relaxation in assessment of SC/ST categories of staff among Scientific and Technical cadres will be given. This comes into force with immediate effect. [CSIR Lr.No.7-1(2)/2002-R&A dt. 7-4-2004] RETIRED OFFICERS AS INQUIRY OFFICERS In terms of CSIR Lr. No.15-1(60)/81-Vig. (Vol.II) dated 4-6-2003, the Labs./Instts. are supposed to get item No.(a), (b), (c) & (d) certified while proposing the retired Officers to function as Inquiry Officers. Due to lack of information, it has been creating hurdles in finalizing the appointment of Inquiry Officers Therefore, it has been decided that henceforth the retired Officers who are proposed to be appointed as Inquiry Officers may be advised to certify the points (a) to (d) themselves so as to avoid delay. [CSIR Lr. No. 15-1(60)/81-Vig.(Vol.II) dt. 20-4-2004] PHYSICAL VERIFICATION OF STORES The procedure for physical verification of stores, stores accounting, noble metals, codification of the stores, etc. have been provided along with various formats for the above functions. [CSIR Lr. No. 15-11(1)/2002-O&M dt. 29-4-2004] TRANSPARENCY THROUGH ECS/EFT In order to significantly reduce processing costs and to reduce the risk of frauds and to avoid intentional delay caused with ulterior motives in the issue and dispatch of cheques in the accounts and finance wings of Govt. organisations, the CVC directs that payment to all suppliers/vendors, refunds of various nature shall be made through Electronic Clearing System (ECS)/Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) mechanism at all centers where such facilities are available in the banks. Salary and other payments to the employees of the concerned organisations at such centers shall also be made through such mechanism wherever facilities exist. The CVC further suggests that the organisations may plan to switch over to e-payment system in a phased manner starting with transactions with the major suppliers in the beginning. It is expected that by 1st July, 2004, 50% of the payment transactions both in terms as well as number of transactions shall be made through ECS/EFT mechanism. The remaining 50% transactions be made by 31st Dec. 2004. It was also suggested that there should be an enabling environment and facilities to make payment of Govt. dues and payments, etc. electronically. [CVC Order No.20/4/04 dt. 6-4-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-II dt. 5-5-2004] CEILING ON COST OF REFRESHMENTS The GoI have revised the limit for serving refreshments/working lunch during the meetings/seminars, etc. which start in the forenoon and continue beyond lunch time from Rs.50/- to Rs.150/-. In order to curb wasteful expenditure, meetings should not be held in hotels. [GoI MoF DoE O.M.No.7(2)E-Coord.03 dt. 25-3-2004; CSIR Endt. No. 8-13(12)/2004-Gen. dt. 19-5-2005] WARRANT OF PRECEDENCE FOR CEREMONIAL FUNCTIONS In continuation of its O.M. dated 8-6-2004, the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI have forwarded a list of dignitaries figuring in Articles 2 to 25 of the Warrant of Precedence for ceremonial functions and posted in Delhi included in Article 25 of the Table of Precedence as part of Annexure-II to the O.M. for necessary up-dating. [GoI MHA O.M.No.2/3/2004-Public dt.16-6-04] DEPRECIATION ON THE FIXED ASSETS It has been decided to adopt the concept of Depreciation w.e.f. 1-4-1994. For the assets procured prior to 1-4-1994, depreciation may be provided in lump sum on the value of assets as on 1-4-1994. Thereafter it may be calculated at a normal rate on the value of asset as on 31st March of every year. While disposing of any asset, depreciation may be calculated from the year of procurement of the asset till the year before the year of disposal. If the depreciated value of asset becomes zero, a token amount of Re.1/- may be considered as residual value. When the Net Block of the asset item consisting of a number of assets becomes Re.1.00 (notional value), the notional value of Re.1.00 may be maintained till the last item of asset block is disposed off. The difference between sale proceeds and the depreciated value/residual value shall be projected in the Income and Expenditure Account as Profit or Loss on sale of asset. CSIR being an R&D organization, the following rates of depreciation have been provided in the accounts. ____________________________________________ Asset items Depreciation Rates Rate prior Rate w.e.f. 1-4-94 (%) 1-4-1994 (%) (Lump sum) (Normal) 1. Buildings 10.00 2.00 2. Apparatus & Equipments 50.00 10.00 3. Electrical Installations & Electrical Equipments 00.00 12.50 4. Computer Equipment/ Major software 80.00 20.00 5. Workshop machinery 25.00 5.00 6. Office Equipment 50.00 10.00 7. Furniture & Fittings 50.00 10.00 8. Library books 50.00 10.00 9. Models & Exhibits 90.00 25.00 10. Vehicles & Transports 60.00 12.50 11. Other Asset items 50.00 10.00 [CSIR Lr.No.42-4(2)/Accounts/IMPACT/2003-2004 dt. 19-5-2004] NEW PENSION SCHEME CSR have adopted the "New Pension Scheme" of Govt. of India vide its Lr. No.17/68/2001-E.II dated 23-12-2003. In cases where the offer of appointments have been issued before 1-1-2004 and the incumbent joined duty on or after 1-1-2004, each individual should be specifically informed by the CSIR Labs./ Instts. about the fact that they will be governed under the New Pension Scheme instead of CCS (Pension) Rules, GPF Rules, etc. as might have been reflected in the offer of appointment issued to them. As regards persons joining CSIR from other Central Govt. Departments/Autonomous Bodies/ State Govt. Departments on or after 1-1-2004 on immediate absorption basis or on foreign service terms, and later seek absorption and governed by CPF or any other system but not pension scheme on GoI pattern in their parent department will also be governed by New Pension Scheme. Persons joining an autonomous body on or after 1-1-2004 from other Departments/ Autonomous Bodies / PSUs / Central Universities having pension scheme on GoI pattern will continue to be governed by existing pension scheme, i.e. CCS (Pension) Rules, 1972. [CSIR Lr. No.17(68)/2003-E.II dt. 10-6-2004] DISPOSAL OF CASES IN THE S&T MINISTRY In terms of Rule 3 of the GoI (Transaction of Business) Rules, it has been decided that the following matters shall be disposed of by the Minister-in-Charge i.e. MOS for Science & Technology: 1. All policy matters in S&T including policy matters relating to the Science Advisory Committee to the Cabinet (SACC) 2. All Cabinet notes to Cabinet Committees 3. All matters to be submitted to the Prime Minister 4. All notes to Cabinet Committee referred by other Ministries/Departments for comments of DST 5. All policy matters requiring inter-agency/inter departmental coordination. 6. All agreements relating to International Cooperation whether bilateral or multi-lateral. 7. All matters relating to setting up of new Institutions 7. All disciplinary matters of Gr. A Officers 8. All Appellate decisions requiring submission to the Minister as per relevant rules 9. All cases of deputation abroad requiring approval of Screening Committee of Secretaries as per instructions from Cabinet Secretariat/Ministry of Finance. 10. Starred/Unstarred Parliament Questions. 11. Extension and fulfilment of Assurances to Parliament Questions 12. All promotion cases requiring approval of ACC 13. All Schemes/programmes which require approval of Minister as per provisions of DFPRs/GFRs 14. Matters relating to leave, etc. of Secretaries in the Departments of Ministry of Science & Technology 15. Any other matter Minister may specifically direct for submission to him. [GoI DST O.M.No.A-36011/02/99-Admn.I(A) dt. 27-5-2004] AMENDMENT TO CCS (LEAVE) RULES, 1972 Sub-rule (1) of Rule 19 of CCS (Leave) Rules, 1972 has been amended. The following is the gist of the same: Gazetted Govt. servants are required to submit Medical Certificate in Form 3 and Physical Fitness Certificate in Form 5 duly issued by a CGHS, if he is a CGHS beneficiary. If he is not so, he is required to submit MC/FC from a Govt. Hospital/ Authorised Medical Attendant or Authorised Doctor of a recognized private hospital in case of hospitalization in respect of diseases related to heart, cancer, etc. If he is away from CGHS covered area or on duty outside the HQs. at the time of illness, he has to produce MC/FC as mentioned above. Similarly, a Non-Gazetted Govt. servant is required to submit MC in Form 4 and FC in Form 5 from the above authorities. If he is away from CGHS covered area or on duty outside the HQs., he has to produce the above certificates issued by an AMA. If no AMA is available within a radius of 8 Km. from his residence or place of temporary stay outside his HQs., and also in the circumstances he finds it difficult to obtain MC/FC from a CGHS doctor or an AMA, he can submit the same from a Registered Medical Practitioner. In Rule 20 of the said rules, sub-rule (2) has been amended to mean that: A Govt. servant who is declared by a medical authority to be completely and permanently incapacitated for further service shall (a) if he is on duty, shall not be invalidated from service during his service period; (b) if he is already on leave, the period of leave or an extension thereafter to the extent permissible under sub-rule (1) of this rule and even beyond that may be granted under relevant rules. In Rule 38, the figure "240 days" has been substituted with "300 days". In Rule 56, the following rules have been amended to mean that: During Study leave availed of outside India, a Govt. servant shall draw leave salary equal to the pay that he drew immediately before proceeding on such leave, in addition to the DA, HRA and Study Allowance as admissible in accordance with the provisions of Rules 57 to 60. However, no Study allowance shall be paid for courses of study in India. Payment of leave salary, etc. is subject to submission of a Certificate to the effect that he is not in receipt of any scholarship, stipend or remuneration out of any part-time employment. The amount received, if any, shall be adjusted against the leave salary payable, subject to the condition that the leave salary shall not be reduced to an amount less than that payable as leave salary during Half-pay leave. During the currency of Study leave within or outside India on or after 1st day of January, 1996, a Govt. servant shall draw benefits of Revised Pay from the date such revision. In the Second Schedule to the above rules, in Bond Forms 6, 7, 8, 9 & 10, the words "the Govt. of India have agreed to bear the stamp duty payable on the bond'" were omitted. [GoI MPPG&P DP&T Notfn. No.13026/1/ 2002-Estt.(L) dt. 16-1-2004; CSIR Endt. No. 17(68)/ 2004-E.II dt. 16-6-2004] UPGRADATION OF THE PAY SCALES OF THE DIRECTORS OF CSIR LABS./INSTTS. With the concurrence of the MoF, DoE, CSIR have upgraded 10% of the posts of Scientists G/H in the scale of Rs.18,400-22,400 as on 31-12-2000 to the pay scale of Rs.22,400-24,500 (at the level of Addl. Secretary). On the recommendations of a High Powered Committee, it has been decided that out of a provision of 28 positions of higher scales, 18 positions were to be filled on the basis of seniority roster, 2 positions to be kept in reserve, and remaining 8 positions are to be upgraded on the basis of merit in terms of quality of research publications, patents, prestigious national honours and awards, evidence of high quality leadership, etc. When a Director from the seniority roster retires and upgraded scale becomes available, the position will be filled up by seniority. Similarly, when a Director who is already in the upgraded scale given on the basis of merit becomes senior enough to move to the seniority roster, then the merit post will be available to be filled. A roster of seniority of all the Directors has also been circulated. [CSIR Lr. No.17/68/97-PPS dt. 16-6-2004] TRANSFER & POSTING GUIDELINES The following are the revised guidelines for Transfer and Posting of Common Cadre Officers: Transfers in Public Interest 1. The Transfers & Posting Committee shall give due weightage to the order of preference as provided by the concerned officers for posting in the overall availability of vacancies and need. 2. Officers on promotion will be transferred out of their present station provided they are not superannuating within 2 years from the date of such promotion. 3. Female employees will be accommodated as far as possible within the same station subject to availability of vacancies. Where spouse of such an employee is also working in CSIR, efforts will be made to post both of them at the same station. 4. Officers will be considered for transfer after completion of 5 years on a post at a Lab./Instt. 5. On transfer of an Officer, if his family stays back at the old station, they may be allowed medical facilities at the old station at the discretion of the Director. Transfers on Request 1. Transfer on request from the Officers will be considered subject to the availability of vacancies provided an officer has served for the minimum residency period of 3 years in a Lab./Instt. or two years in a Lab./Instt. at a difficult station such as Jorhat and Jammu. 2. Officers transferred on their request will be eligible for TA, joining time, etc. as per rules, if they have served for 3 years or more at a normal station or for 2 years at a difficult station. In other cases of transfers on personal requests, the Officers will not be entitled for TA, joining time, etc. 3. Within two years of superannuation, an Officer will be given posting of his choice so as to enable him to settle at the desired place. [CSIR Lr. No.3-33/51/75-E.I dt. 7-7-2004] PUBLIC INTEREST DISCLOSURES & PROTECTION OF INFORMER The GoI has authorised the CVC as the “Designated Agency” through a Resolution to receive written complaints for disclosure on any allegation of corruption or misuse of Office and recommend appropriate action. The jurisdiction of the CVC in this regard would be restricted to any employee of the Central Govt. or of any Corporation established by or under any Central Act, Govt. companies, Societies or Local Authorities owned or controlled by the CG. Personnel employed by the State Govts. and activities of the State Govt. or its Corporations, etc. will not come under the purview of the CVC. The CVC has the responsibility of keeping the identity of the complainant secret. The complainant should comply with the following: 1. The complaint should be in a closed/secured envelope. 2. The envelope should be addressed to the Secretary, CVC and should be superscribed “Complaint under the Public Interest Disclosure”. The complainant should give name and address in the beginning or at the end of complaint or in an attached letter. 3. CVC will not entertain “Anonymous/ Pseudonymous” complaints. 4. The details of the complaint should be specific and verifiable. 5. In order to protect identity of the person, the CVC will not issue any acknowledgement and the "whistle-blowers" are advised not to enter into any further correspondence with the Commission. The CVC assures that subject to the facts of the case being verifiable, it will take necessary action. If any further clarification is required, the CVC itself will get in touch with the complainant. The CVC can also take action against complainants for making motivated/vexatious complaints. The CVC has asked the respective CVOs to take the following action in respect of the complaints forwarded by the Commission: 1. All the relevant papers/documents with respect to the matter raised in the complaint should be obtained by the CVO and investigation into the complaint should be commenced immediately. The investigation report should be submitted to the Commission within two weeks. 2. The CVO is to ensure that no punitive action is taken by any concerned Administrative authority against any person on perceived reasons/ suspicion of being a “whistle blower”. 3. Subsequent to the receipt of Commission’s directions to undertake any disciplinary action based on such complaints, the CVO has to follow it up and confirm compliance of further action by the DA and keep the Commission informed of the delay, if any. [CVC Order No.33/5/2004 dt. 17-5-2004 &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; 38/6/2004 dt. 8-6-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-6(83)/98-O&M-II dt. 8-7-2004] RECEIPT AND OPENING OF TENDERS The receipt of tenders should be through tender boxes as suggested in the various booklets issued by the CTE Organization of the CVC. However, in cases where the tenders are required to be submitted by hand, it may be ensured that the names and designation of at least two Officers are mentioned in the bid documents. The information about these Officers should also be displayed at the Entrance/Reception of the premises where the tenders are to be deposited so as to ensure convenient approach for the bidders. The tenders after receipt should be opened on the stipulated date and time in presence of the intending bidders. [CVC O.M.No.05-04-I-CTE-8 dt. 8-6-2004; CSIR Lr. No.15-1(120)/90-Vig. dt. 12-7-2004] INTER-LABORATORY TRANSFERS The cases of Inter-Laboratory transfer of Administrative staff borne on various cadres, viz. General, Finance & Accounts, Stores & Purchase and Stenographic cadres will be processed by E-I Section, while S&T staff and isolated categories in Administration will be handled by the E-II Section of CSIR HQs. [CSIR Lr. No.6-1(1)/82-E.III dt. 20-7-2004] REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES BY CGHS AND INSURANCE COMPANIES It has been decided that the beneficiaries of CGHS who hold a CGHS Pensioner Card would be allowed to claim reimbursement of medical expenses both from Insurance Companies as well as the CGHS in case such pensioners have taken a Mediclaim Policy. Medical claim against the original vouchers/bills would be raised by the pensioner first on the Insurance Co. which would issue a Certificate to the Director, CGHS of the amount reimbursed to the pensioner holding the Mediclaim policy. The concerned Insurance Co. would retain the original bills in such cases. The CGHS cardholder would then prefer medical claim to the concerned Addl. Director of CGHS along with photocopies of the vouchers/bills duly certified in ink and stamped on the reverse of the bills. The CGHS would reimburse to the pensioner only the balance of the admissible amount (amount admissible (-) amount paid by Ins. Co.). The total amount reimbursed by the two organizations does not exceed the total expenditure incurred by the pensioner. The same conditions shall also be applicable to the serving CG employees covered under the CGHS and the CS (MA) Rules, 1944.

[GoI MH&FW O.M.No.S-11011/4/2003-CGHS(P) dt. 8-1-2004; Swamysnews, April 2004, 11 and GoI MH O.M. No.S-11011/4/ 2003-CGHS(P) dt. 27-2-2004; Swamysnews, July 2004, 12-3]

PROVISION OF TAXUS STENT TO CGHS BENEFICIARIES

It has been decided that reimbursement/ permission for the use of TAXUS Stent (Paclitaxual Eluding Stent) to the CGHS beneficiaries would be made where restenosis involves/would involve high risk to the patient’s life in the following cases: (a) Osteal/Proximal LAD Lesions; (b) Stenosis of a Coronary Artery which is giving collaterals to another blocked artery thus supplying large area of myocardium; and (c) Stenting of restenotic lesions after previous angioplasty. It is essential to quote the batch number of the stent implanted and in addition to this, the outer pouch of the stent packet along with sticker on it on which the details of the stent are printed should also be submitted with the medical bill. The ceiling rate for the above will be Rs.90,000/- or actual expenditure whichever is less.

[GoI MH O.M. No. 9005/2003/R&H/CGHS/ CGHS(P) dt. 8-3-2004; Swamysnews, July 2004, 13-4]

TRANSPORT ALLOWANCE

It has been clarified that any transport facility provided to the staff at subsidized rates prior to 1-8-1997 may be allowed to continue even after 1-8-1997 in lieu of Transport Allowance. However, such facility should not be allowed in new areas, and only Transport Allowance should be granted.

[C&AG Lr. No. 577-NGE(Entt.)/26-2003 (Circular No.37-NGE 2003) dt. 21-10-2003; Swamysnews, July 2004, 33]

WITHHOLDING OF INCREMENT

The penalty of withholding one increment for one year can be operative only from the date of accrual of next increment after the date of penalty, i.e. if the increment is due on 1-10-2004, it would be withheld for a period of one year. It can be drawn only on completion of penalty period, i.e. 1-10-2005.

[Swamysnews, July 2004, 94-5]

Harmony CSIR

Sunday, December 31, 2006

Circulars - 2004

Previous Posts