Thursday, January 26, 2017

Income Tax benefits for NPS

Income Tax benefits for NPS

New Delhi: At the investment stage, National Pension System (NPS) offers the income tax benefits under different sections of the Income Tax Act - Section 80CCD (1), Section 80CCD (1b) and Section 80CCD (2).

NPS is especially useful for investors who may have exhausted the Rs 1.5 lakh investment limit under Section 80C but want to save more.

Under Section 80CCD (1): Investment up to Rs 1.5 lakh into NPS in a financial year is eligible for deduction under Section 80CCD(1). This deduction comes under the overall ceiling of Rs 1.5 lakh for deduction under Section 80C.

Under Section 80CCD (1b): In budget 2016, the government had introduced additional tax benefit for investment up to Rs 50,000 in NPS. If the taxpayer contributes more than Rs 1.5 lakh to the NPS in a year, the amount in excess of Rs 1.5 lakh can be claimed as a deduction under the new Section 80CCD(1b).

Under Section 80CCD(2): Over and above the ceiling limit of Rs 1.5 lakh provided under Section 80C and limit of Rs 50,000 under Section 80CCD(1B), contribution from the employer up to 10% of Basic Salary + Dearness Allowance is also eligible for deduction under Section 80CCD(2). There is no upper cap (in terms of amount) on this tax deduction and it is available only to employees.

Inputs with ET

Clarification on Dearness Allowance: Pension under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980 in respect of freedom fighter

Enhancement of pension under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980 in respect of freedom fighter and their eligible dependents-Clarification on Dearness Allowance-regarding

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF FINANCE
DEPARTMENT OF EXPENDITURE
CENTRAL PENSION ACCOUNTING OFFICE
TRIKOOT-II, BHIKAJI CAMA PLACE,
NEW DELHI-110066
PHONES : 26174596, 26174456. 26174438

CPAO/IT&Tech/Freedom Fighter /1 (Vol-X)/2016-1 7 /238
23.01.2017
Office Memorandum

Subject:- Enhancement of pension under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980 in respect of freedom fighter and their eligible dependents-Clarification on Dearness Allowance-regarding.

Reference is invited to OM No. CPAO/IT&Tech/Freedom Fighter/2016-17/132 dated-08.09.2016 on enhancement of pension under Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980 in respect of freedom fighters and their eligible dependents and FFR Division, Ministry of Home Affairs letter No 45/06/2016-FRP) dated 28.10.2016 (both copies enclosed) whereby the existing Dearness Relief system based on All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial workers, which was hitherto applied to freedom fighter pensioners on annual basis, was discontinued and replaced by the Dearness Relief system applicable to Central Government employees twice a year.

2. Now, FFR Division, Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified vide its letter No. 45/06/2016-FF (P) dated-09.01.2017 (copy enclosed) that 2% Dearness Allowance w.e.f. 01.07.2016 announced recently for Central Govt. pensioners and employees will not be applicable for the Central Freedom Fighter Pensioners whose pension have been revised/enhanced w.e.f. 15.08.2016 subsequent to the effective date of the 2% Dearness Allowance which is 01.07.2016. However, next Dearness Allowance due from 01.01.2017 and subsequent Wks will be applicable for the Central Freedom Fighter Pensioners.
3. Heads of CPPCs of all the banks are advised to take necessary action as per above instructions.

4. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.
(Vijay Singh)
Sr. Accounts Officer (IT & Tech)
Ph. No.011-26166758
Order Copy

Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968

Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968

No. 11017/02/2017-AlS-II
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions
Department of Personnel & Training
North Block, New Delhi,
Dated the 23rd January, 2017
The Chief Secretaries of All States/UTs

Subject: Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968.

Sir,
I am directed to refer to this Department’s D.O. No. 6(1)/2014-E0(PR) dated 22.12.2016, wherein instructions regarding online filing of Immovable Property Returns under rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968 were issued. In this regard, it is reiterated that all members of the All India Services shall continue to file Immoveable Property Returns (IPR) as on 1st January and latest by 31st January under rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968. Accordingly, the same may please be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance.

2. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.
(Rajesh Kumar Yadav)
Under Secretary (Services)
Tele: 011-23094714

7th Pay Commission unhappiness - BSF, Army Pay Parity remains Elusive

7th Pay Commission unhappiness - BSF, Army Pay Parity remains Elusive

7th Pay Commission - Nearly two weeks after soldiers from several central paramilitary forces went public with their grievances, documents reveal the stark disparity between the Indian Army and the Border Security Force (BSF).

Salary documents provided by the BSF, reveal there is a difference ranging from 2.5% to 48%, after the 7th Pay Commission was implemented, between pay scales of the BSF and the Army.

They show that a head constable in the BSF earns Rs.25,500 a month - Rs.3,700 less than his Army counterpart. A deputy commandant earns Rs.1,700 less than a major in the Army, a commandant draws Rs.7,200 less than a colonel, and a deputy inspector general of the BSF draws Rs.8,500 less than a brigadier in the Army. The biggest disparity is between the second-in-command (2IC) of the BSF and a Lt. Colonel of the Army-a pay gap of Rs.37,900.

"This debate has been going on for the last 50 years. But there has been no resolution as yet to bring the BSF and the Army on a par as far as salaries are concerned. The line of duty and combat is the same for both forces, but there is a major distinction," said a senior BSF officer on condition of anonymity.

While the home ministry is silent on the matter, the BSF bill of 1968, which was discussed in the Rajya Sabha in 1968, had argued that "the BSF in its functioning has all the disadvantages of the police and the Army without their corresponding advantages. This is a matter which needs looking into and remedial steps taken to redress balance in favour of the BSF with regard to leave, travel concessions, housing, education, allowance, etc."

Source: Livemint

Budget 2017 - EC's Order could bring Cheer to Central Government Employees

Budget 2017 - EC's Order could bring Cheer to Central Government Employees

Budget 2017 will be keenly watched by millions of CG employees, after waiting patiently for months over hike in allowances as recommended by the 7th Pay Commission.

A new development on Monday could still raise hopes for about 47 lakh Central government employees and 53 lakh pensioners, of which 14 lakh employees and 18 lakh pensioners are from the defence forces, despite the model code of conduct.

The Election Commission of India (EC) said in its order issued on Monday that the budget cannot have promises that are aimed at the five states that could give an electoral edge.

"The Commission hereby directs that in the interest of free and fair elections and in order to maintain level playing field during elections, no State specific schemes shall be announced in the National Budget which may have the effect of influencing the electors of the five poll going States in favour of the ruling party(ies)," the EC said.

“It may be ensured that in the Budget Speech, the Government's achievements in respect of said five States will also not be highlighted in any manner,” the poll panel added.

In other words, the present government could take a call on raising allowances as proposed by the 7th CPC since the decision would have a pan-India effect and not necessarily be seen as luring voters of the five states. So, the model code of conduct need not come as a hurdle.

Money has not been seen as a constraint given that the tax collections have remained buoyant this year and the government also made adequate provisions (Rs. 70,000 crore) for implementing the 7th CPC proposals in Budget 2016.

"The Government announced that the second income disclosure scheme (IDS II) will run till March 31. We continue to estimate that it will net the fisc about Rs1000bn/0.7% of GDP of additional taxes. This should allow Finance Minister Jaitley to hold the FY18 fiscal deficit at 3.5% of GDP - same as FY17's - and at the same time fund the 7th Pay Commission and recapitalize PSU banks, without cutting back on public capex," BofA Merrill Lynch had said in a note a few weeks ago.

Source: IBtimes

Loans and Advances by the Central Government - Interest rates and other terms and conditions

Loans and Advances by the Central Government - Interest rates and other terms and conditions

F.No.5(3)-B(PD)/2016
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Economic Affairs

New Delhi, the 6th January, 2017
OFFICE MEMORANDUM

Subject:- Loans and Advances by the Central Government - Interest rates and other terms and conditions.

Reference this Ministry's Office Memorandum F.No.5(3)-B(PD)2015 dated 3rd February, 2016 on the captioned subject.

2. The lending rates, categories and conditions prescribed in the aforesaid Office Memorandum have been reviewed. The revised rates of interest,categories and conditions as given in the Table below, would be applicable from 1st April, 2016 and till the time these are reviewed:

TABLE

Category of borrower & type of loanInterest rate per cent per annum
1. State Governments (EAP Loan):8.00
2. Union Territory Governments (with Legislature):
(i) Loans upto 1 year and EAP loan8.00
(ii) Other Loans8.50
3. Industrial and Commercial Undertakings in the Public Sector and Cooperatives: Loans for implemantation of VRS in sick PSUs10.00
The terms and condition and conditions regarding eligibility of loan would remain the same as that of last year. If any specific request comes in future from any other financial institution/CPSE/Autonomous Body/Cooperative, it would be examined by the Budget Division, DEA on merits of that case.

3. The terms, including interest rate of loans to Foreign Governments may be settled in consultation with Budget Division. Terms for on-lending of funds under externally aided projects should be in accordance with the prescribed pattern. In case, deviation is considered necessary, Budget Division should be consulted.

4. The interest rates prescribed above assume timely repayments and interest payments and hence no further rebate in rates is to be allowed for timely payments.

5. OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS

(a) The loan sanctioning authority should meticulously follow the instructions contained in General Financial Rules, 2005 (GFR 2005), particularly, rules framed under Chapter 9 (II-LOANS) of
GFR, 2005, while sanctioning loans to various entities as stipulated therein.

(b) The instructions issued from time to time have been reviewed and are set out in the following paragraphs for facility of reference.

6. STATE GOVERNMENTS

In the case of loans to State Governments, the arrangements for payment of annual instalment of principal and interest will be as under:-

(a) Block loans for State Plan Schemes and other Plan loans for Centrally Sponsored Schemes:- These loans when drawn in instalments, will be consolidated and deemed to have been drawn as on 1st October in each year. The maturity period of the loans sanctioned for State Plans is 20 years, repayments being made in 20 annual equal instalments together with interest on the outstanding balance commencing from the following year, subject to consolidation under the award of Twelfth Finance Commission (TFC).

However, fifty per cent of these loans will enjoy a five year initial grace period, after which repayments of these loans will be effected in 15 annual equal instalments. The amounts annually payable(by way of principal and interest) would be recovered in 10 equal monthly instalments commencing 15th June, subject to debt waiver under the award of TFC.

(b) Other Loans:- The terms of repayment of these loans will be as laid down from time to time.

7. PUBLIC SECTOR PROJECTS

(A) For new installations or expansion of existing institutions:

(a) The terms and conditions of loans should be fixed with reference to the financial picture presented in the approved Project Report. (Once the pattern is settled, there should be no change except with the specific concurrence of this Department for reasons to be stated in writing).(b) The capital requirements of a project should include adequate provisions for interest payment on borrowings during the period of construction (as specified in the Project Report). The interest on loans due during the period of construction will be allowed to be capitalised to the extent of the provisions made for this purpose in the approved Project Report. In other words, while interest on loans advanced to an undertaking during the period of construction will be notionally recovered by allowing its capitalisation, the payment of interest should effectively commence after the construction period is over.

(c) The repayment of principal should ordinarily commence one year after the project commences production, the number of instalments being determined with reference to the financial projections and repaying capacity specified in the Project Report. Requests for further moratorium will be considered only in exceptional cases where the Project Report has specified any special circumstances that may necessitate a longer period of moratorium and has indicated clearly what staggering of repayment would be needed over the necessary break period. The period of loans sanctioned against capitalised interest during the period of construction may also be on the same terms and conditions as are applicable to loans provided for financing the project costs.

(d) A suitable period of moratorium subject to a maximum of five years from the date of drawal of the loans may be allowed for the repayment of instalments of principal, having regard to the nature of the project, the stage of construction etc. The period of moratorium should not, however, extend in any case, beyond two years from the date of project going into production, or in the case of programmes of expansion, beyond two years from the date of expanded project coming into operation.

(B) For meeting working capital requirements: The undertakings are expected to obtain their cash credit requirements from the State Bank of India/Nationalised Banks by hypothecating their current assets (such as stock of stores, raw materials, finished goods, work in progress, etc.) and where the entire working capital requirements cannot be raised in this manner by seeking a guarantee from Government. Accordingly, requests from Public Sector Undertakings for funds for meeting working capital requirements should be considered only to the extent the same cannot be had from the State Bank of India/Nationalised Banks.

8. GENERAL

REPAYMENT PERIOD

(A) (i) The period for repayment of loans for all parties other than State Governments should be fixed with due regard to the purpose for which they are advanced and it should be restricted to the minimum possible. Normally, no loan should be granted for a period exceeding 10 years. Where a longer period for repayment is sought, prior concurrence of the Budget Division in this Department will be necessary for fixing the period.

(ii) The repayment of a loan should normally commence from the first anniversary date of its drawal or on expiry of the period of moratorium, as the case may be. The recovery should ordinarily be effected in annual equal instalments of principal.

(iii) The period of repayment of working capital loans should preferably be restricted to two or three years. In no case, however, the period of these loans should exceed 5 years.

(B) Moratorium:
Subject to exceptions made in respect of pubic sector projects, a suitable period of moratorium towards repayment might be agreed to in individual cases having regard to the project for which the loans are to be utilised. However, no moratorium should ordinarily be allowed in respect of interest payment on loans. Ministries/Departments may with the approval of their Financial Advisers allow moratorium on repayment of principal wherever considered necessary upto a maximum period of 2 years.

(C) (i) Repayment before due date:
Any instalment paid before its due date may be taken entirely towards the principal provided it is accompanied by payment towards interest due upto date of actual payment of instalment; if not, the amount of the instalment will first be adjusted towards the interest due for the preceding and current periods and the balance, if any, will alone be applied towards the principal. Where the payment of the instalment is in advance of the due date by 14 days or less, interest for the full period (half year or full year as the case may be) will be payable. If any State Government repays an instalment of a loan which is consolidated as on 1st October, in advance of the due date by more than 14 days the interest.
(ii) Pre-payment premium: Prepayment premium of 0.25% on the loans with residual maturity of less than 10 years and 0.50% for the loans with residual maturity of 10 years and above, shall be charged. The provision does not apply to the loans to State/UT Governments.

(D) Penalty Clause:
The loan sanctions/agreements should invariably include a penalty clause providing for levy of a penal rate of interest in the event of default in repayment of instalment(s) of principal and/or interest. The penal rate of interest should not be less than 2.50% above the normal rate of interest at which a loan is sanctioned.

(E) Defaults in repayment/interest payment:
(i) In the event of a default in repayment of loan/interest payment, the recovery of interest at penal rate may not be waived unless there are special reasons justifying a waiver. However, a decision in this regard will be taken by the Ministry of Finance (Budget Division) on the advise of Financial Adviser. Even in such cases, a minimum of 0.25% should be recovered from the defaulting party as penalty.
(ii) The penal rate of interest is chargeable on the overdue instalments of principal and/or interest from the due date of their payment to the date preceding the date of actual payment.

(iii) Whenever a fresh loan is to be sanctioned to a borrower who has earlier defaulted, the loan sanctioning authority must consider the question of recovery of defaulted dues. All releases to Public Sector Undertakings against budgeted outlays should be made only after adjusting the defaults, if any, pertaining to repayment of loans and interest. If for special and exceptional reasons such adjustments are not possible, specific orders of Secretary (Expenditure) should be obtained through Budget Division, before release of fresh loans, in relaxation of extant orders, in conformity
with this Division circular No.F.2 (190)-B(SD)/91, dated 15.10.1991.

(iv) Any defaults should ab-initio serve as a warning signal to the Ministries/ Departments for which curative action has to be taken immediately.

(v) Ministries/Departments need to critically review the financial position of the borrower, including defaulting CPSUs and wherever possible, should take immediate action to recover the money due to the Government.

(vi) In the case of defaulting CPSUs, there has to be a clear road map for restructuring of these CPSUs, as prolonged approval results in burgeoning of defaults.

(vii)Ministries/Departments are to ensure that these defaults do not become fiscally unsustainable.

(viii) Wherever Ministries/Departments are considering restructuring of a CPSU, it must be ensured that besides equity infusion, funds mobilisation, rescheduling of loans/interest payments, write off of dues, etc. should be formulated holistically. However, no request for waiver/postponement of instalments on any ground whatsoever will be accepted, except in cases of companies referred to BIFR or in respect of those companies which have incurred cash losses for last three years, in conformity with this Division circular No.F.2(165)-B(SD)/94, dated 06.10.1994.

(F) Requests for modification of terms of loans:
(i) Borrowers are required to adhere strictly to the terms settled for loans made to them and modifications of these terms in their favour can be made subsequently only for very special reasons. Requests for modification of terms may relate to increase in the period of a loan or of initial moratorium period towards repayment, or waiver of penal interest or reduction in or waiver of normal rate of interest. The procedure of dealing with requests for waiver of penal interest has already been dealt with in paragraph 8. Cases involving other modifications in repayment terms should be considered in consultation with the Budget Division in this Ministry. In referring such cases, the impact of the modifications on the estimates of repayment/interest which have gone into the Budget and Government’s resources position should be succinctly brought out by the administrative Ministry.

(ii) In examining proposals for modification of the period of the loan, the interest rate at which the loan was sanctioned should also be reviewed. In the case of a loan of which repayment has already commenced the revised rate of interest should be applied ab initio only to the residuary portion of the loan outstanding on the date of extension of its period.

(iii) Requests for waiver of recovery of normal interest (either for a specified period or for the entire period) on a loan which originally sanctioned at normal rate of interest, will attract the provisions of Rule 223 (1) of G.F.R.2005 and should be dealt with accordingly.

(G) Loans sanctioned at concessional rates:
(i) In cases where loans are to be sanctioned at a concessional rate, the instructions contained in Rule 223 (1) of G.F.R.2005 have to be observed. In such cases, payment of subsidy (to cover the concession viz. difference between normal rate and concessional rate) should be made conditional upon prompt repayment of principal and payment of interest thereon by the borrower.

(ii) In cases where loans are sanctioned interest free (e.g. loans to technical educational institutions for construction of hostels) prompt repayment should be made a condition for the grant of interest free loans. That is to say, the sanction letter in such cases should provide that in the event of any default in repayment, interest at rates prescribed by Government from time to time will be chargeable on the loans.

(iii) Similarly, in the case of interest free loans to departmental canteens where subsidy is also provided to meet running expenses, the sanction letter should stipulate that in the event of any default in repayment, the defaulted dues would be recovered out of the subsidy payable.

(H) Miscellaneous: A standard form prescribed for issue of loan sanctions (Appendix-I) should ordinarily be followed.

(i) The date of drawal of a loan by the borrower will be date on which he received cash, cheque or bank draft from the Drawing and Disbursing Officer. It should be ensured that the time lag between the date of obtaining the cash/cheque/bank draft and its disbursement/delivery/despatch to the payee is reduced to the minimum. Where the cheque or bank draft is sent through post, the date of posting should be treated as the date of disbursement of the loan. The Drawing and Disbursing Officer should invariably intimate the date of payment to his Accounts Office to enable the latter to make a suitable note in his records.

(ii) In the case of loans sanctioned to parties other than State and Union Territory and Foreign Governments and Government Servants, the borrower should tender the amounts due on or before the due date, at the New Delhi Office/Main Office of the public sector bank accredited to the Ministry/ Department which sanctions the loan, in cash or by cheque or draft drawn on any scheduled bank in Delhi/New Delhi in favour of the said PSB Branch. The payment should be accompanied by a memorandum or challan in duplicate indicating (a) name of the loan sanctioning Ministry/Department; (b) No. and date of the loan sanction letter and the loan amount sanctioned; (c) amount due for payment separately for interest and principal and the head(s) of account to which the dues are to be credited in the Government Accounts; and (d) due date of payment. The borrower should be asked to tender separate chequ Outstation loanees are required to arrange the dues through their bank ensuring that the memorandum/challan and the cheque/draft reaches the aforesaid PSB Branch in New Delhi by the due date.

(iii) Ministries/Departments are required to keep close watch on timely repayments of loans advanced by them and recovery of interest thereon. Rule 220 (1) (viii) of G.F.R. 2005 provides for a notice to be given to the borrowers a month in advance of the due date of payment of instalment of the principal and/or interest thereon. Such notices may be sent in the form given in Appendix II. The borrower should not however be given any advantage in the event of non-receipt of such a notice.
Repayments/interest payments due from the loanees should also be reviewed at least quarterly, and where any default has occurred, a fresh notice should be served on the borrower to arrange payment with penal/higher rate of interest in the form set out in Appendix III.

(iv) Individual cases relating to terms and conditions of loans need not be referred to the Department of Economic Affairs (Budget Division) unless it is proposed to deviate from those laid down in this Office Memorandum.

This issues with the approval of Finance Minister.
sd/-
(Vyasan R)
Deputy Secretary (Budget)
Click to view the order
Authority: www.finmin.nic.in

Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana - 2017

Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana - 2017

Ministry of Finance
Press Information Bureau,
Government of India
24-January, 2017
Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana - 2017

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its post-facto approval for launching of Varishtha Pension Bima Yojana 2017 (VPBY 2017). It is a part of Government’s commitment for financial inclusion and social security.

The scheme will be implemented through Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) during the current financial year to provide social security during old age and protect elderly persons aged 60 years and above against a future fall in their interest income due to uncertain market conditions. The scheme will provide an assured pension based on a guaranteed rate of return of 8% per annum for ten years, with an option to opt for pension on a monthly / quarterly / halfyearly and annual basis. The differential return, i.e., the difference between the return generated by LIC and the assured return of 8% per annum would be borne by Government of India as subsidy on an annual basis.

VPBY-2017 is proposed to be open for subscription for a period of one year from the date of launch.

Cabinet approves a New Scheme for promotion of Rural Housing in the country

Cabinet approves a New Scheme for promotion of Rural Housing in the country

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved a new scheme for promotion of Rural Housing in the country. The Government would provide interest subsidy under the scheme. Interest subsidy would be available to every rural household who is not covered under the Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana (Grameen), PMAY(G).

The scheme would enable people in rural areas to construct new houses or add to their existing pucca houses to improve their dwelling units. The beneficiary who takes a loan under the scheme would be provided interest subsidy for loan amount upto Rs. 2 Lakhs.

National Housing Bank would implement the scheme. The Government would provide net present value of the interest subsidy of 3 percent to the National Housing Bank upfront which will, in turn, pass it to the Primary Lending Institutions (Scheduled Commercial Banks, NBFCs etc.). As a result the equated monthly installment (EMI) for the beneficiary would be reduced.

Under the scheme, the Government would also take necessary steps for proper convergence with PMAY-G including technical support to beneficiary through existing arrangements. The new scheme is expected to improve housing stock in the rural areas, as well as create employment opportunities in rural housing sector.

PIB

7th Pay Commission related demands - Central Government Employees Strike postponed to 16th March 2017

7th Pay Commission related demands - Central Government Employees Strike postponed to 16th March 2017

7th Pay Commission related demands - Central Government Employees Strike postponed to 16th March 2017 - Confederation communicates Strike postponment notice and Charter of Demands to Cabinet Secretary

Ref: Confdn/Strike/2016-19
Dated : 23rd January 2017
To,
The Cabinet Secretary
Cabinet Secretariat
Government of India

Sub:- Postponement of the one day strike from 15th February 2017 to 16th March 2017.
Ref:- Our strike notice dated 28.12.2016.

Kindly refer to the notice served by us on 28th December 2016, for one day strike of Central Government employees on15th February 2017. (copy enclosed for ready reference). This is to inform you that due to the notification of election to five state assemblies by the Elected Commission of India, the proposed strike on 15th February 2017 is postponed to 16th March 2017. The Charter of demands in pursuance of which the employees will embark upon the one-day strike action is enclosed.
Yours faithfully,
(M. Krishnan)
Secretary General
Mob: 09447068125
Central Government Employees Strike

CHARTER OF DEMANDS

1. Settle the demands raised by NJCA regarding modifications of 7th CPC recommendations as submitted in the memorandum to Cabinet Secretary on 10th December 2015. (See Annexure-I). Honour the assurance given by the Group of Ministers to NJCA on 30th June 2016 and 6th July 2016, especially increase in minimum wage and fitment factor. Grant revised HRA at the existing percentage itself i.e. 30%, 20% and 10%. Accept the proposal of the staff side regarding Transport Allowance. Settle all anomalies arising out of implementation of 7th CPC recommendations, in a time bound manner.

2. Implement option-I recommended by 7th CPC and accepted by the Government regarding parity in pension of pre-2016 pensioners, without any further delay. Settle the pension related issues raised by NJCA against item 13 of its memorandum submitted to Cabinet Secretary on 10th December 2015. (See Annexure-I).

3. Scrap PFRDA Act and New Pension System (NPS) and grant pension and Family Pension to all Central Government employees recruited after 01.01.2004, under CCS (Pension) Rules 1972.

4. Treat Gramin Dak Sewaks of Postal department as Civil Servants, and extend all benefits like pay, pension, allowances etc. of departmental employees to GDS. Publish GDS Committee report immediately.

5. Regularise all casual, contract, part-time, contingent and Daily rated mazdoors and grant equal pay and other benefits. Revise the wages as per 7th CPC minimum pay.

6. No Downsizing, Privatisation, outsourcing and contractorisation of Government functions.

7. Withdraw the arbitrary decision of the Government to enhance the bench mark for performance appraisal for promotion and financial upgradations under MACP from "GOOD" to VERY GOOD" and also decision to withhold annual increments in the case of those employees who are not able to meet the bench march either for MACP or for regular promotion within the first 20 years of service. Grant MACP pay fixation benefits on promotional hierarchy and not on pay-matrix hierarchy. Personnel promoted on the basis of examination should be treated as fresh entrants to the cadre for grant of MACP.

8. Withdraw the draconian FR 56 (J) and Rule 48 of CCs (Pension) Rules 1972 which is being misused as a short cut as purity measure to punish and victimize the employees.

9. Fill up all vacant posts including promotional posts in a time bound manner. Lift ban on creation
of posts. Undertake cadre Review to access the requirement of employees and their cadre prospects. Modify recruitment rules of Group-‘C’ cadre and make recruitment on Reginal basis.

10. Remove 5% ceiling on compassionate appointments and grant appointment in all deserving cases.

11. Grant five promotions in the service carreer to all Central Govt. employees.

12. Abolish and upgrade all Lower Division Clerks to Upper Division Clerks.

13. Ensure parity in pay for all stenographers, Assistants, Ministerial Staff in subordinate offices and in all organized Accounts cadres with Central Secretariat staff by upgrading their pay scales. Grant pay scale of Drivers in Lok Sabha Secretariat to Drivers working in all other Central Government Departments.

14. Reject the stipulation of 7th CPC to reduce the salary to 80% for the second year of Child Care
leave and retain the existing provision.

15. Introduce Productivity Linked bonus in all department and continue the existing bi-lateral agreement on PLB wherever it exists.

16. Ensure cashless medical treatment to all Central Government employees & Pensioners in all recognized Government and Private hospitals.

17. Revision of Overtime Allowance (OTA) and Night Duty Allowance (NDA) w.e.f 01.01.2016 based on 7th CPC pay scale.

18. Revision of wages of Central Government employees in every five years.

19. Revive JCM functioning at all levels. Grant recognition to the unions/Associations under CCS (RSA) Rules 1993 within a time frame to facilitate effective JCM functioning.

20. Implementation of the Revised Pay structure in respect of employees and pensioners of autonomous bodies consequent on implementation of CCS (Revised Pay) Rules 2016 in respect of Central Government employees and pensioners w.e.f. 01.01.2016.

21. Implementation of the "equal pay for equal work" judgment of the Supreme Court in all
departments of the Central Government.

Source: Confederation

One Rank One Pension (OROP) Veterans on fast for full OROP

One Rank One Pension (OROP) Veterans on fast for full OROP

Ex-servicemen's groups demanding the “full implementation” of the one rank, one pension (OROP) scheme at Jantar Mantar have once again intensified their agitation since last week.

Three veterans - Mrs. Sudesh Goyat, Hav. Major Singh and Hav. Mohinder Singh - have been on a fast-unto-death since January 15. Ms. Goyat was admitted to the Army’s Research & Referral (RR) hospital on Sunday after her health deteriorated and is now reported to be stable.

OROP - Veterans hurt
While some of the veterans withdrew their protests after the government announced the implementation of its version of the OROP, members of the Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement (IESM) restarted the relay hunger-strike in November last year after a pause.

"On Veterans Day on January 14, 2017, Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre said that some elements were spreading false statements despite the government implementing OROP. This accusation has hurt the three veterans so much that they began a fast the next day," Maj. Gen. Satbir Singh, Chairman of the IESM, said on Monday.

He said that they had requested several meetings with Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, but they were declined. "We suggested a video conference as the Minister is campaigning in Goa, but they refused," he said.

Source: The Hindu

INCOME-TAX DEDUCTION FROM SALARIES DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2016-17 UNDER SECTION 192 OF THE INCOME-TAX ACT, 1961

​Deduction of tax at source Income-tax deduction from salaries under section 192 of the Income-tax Act, 1961

CIRCULAR NO : 01/2017
F.No.275/192/2016-IT(B)
Government of India
Ministry of Finance
Department of Revenue
Central Board of Direct Taxes
North Block, New Delhi
Dated the 2nd January, 2017

SUBJECT: INCOME-TAX DEDUCTION FROM SALARIES DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2016-17 UNDER SECTION 192 OF THE INCOME-TAX ACT, 1961.

Reference is invited to Circular No.20/2015 dated 02.12.2015 whereby the rates of deduction of income-tax from the payment of income under the head “Salaries” under Section 192 of the Income-tax Act, 1961 (hereinafter ‘the Act’), during the financial year 2015-16, were intimated. The present Circular contains the rates of deduction of income-tax from the payment of income chargeable under the head “Salaries” during the financial year 2016-17 and explains certain related provisions of the Act and Income-tax Rules, 1962 (hereinafter the Rules). The relevant Acts, Rules, Forms and Notifications are available at the website of the Income Tax Department- www.incometaxindia.gov.in.

2. RATES OF INCOME-TAX AS PER FINANCE ACT, 2016:
As per the Finance Act, 2016, income-tax is required to be deducted under Section 192 of the Act from income chargeable under the head “Salaries” for the financial year 2016-17 (i.e. Assessment Year 2017-18) at the following rates:
2.1 Rates of tax

A. Normal Rates of tax:
Sl.No.Total IncomeRate of tax
1.Where the total income does not exceed Rs. 2,50,000/Nil
2.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 2,50,000/- but does not exceed Rs. 5,00,000/-10 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 2,50,000/-
3.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000/- but does not exceed Rs. 10,00,000/Rs. 25,000/- plus 20 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000/-
4.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/Rs. 1,25,000/- plus 30 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/-

B. Rates of tax for every individual, resident in India, who is of the age of sixty years or more but less than eighty years at any time during the financial year:
Sl.No.Total IncomeRate of tax
1.Where the total income does not exceed Rs. 3,00,000/-Nil
2.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 3,00,000 but does not exceed Rs. 5,00,000/10 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 3,00,000/
3.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000/- but does not exceed Rs. 10,00,000/-Rs. 20,000/- plus 20 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000/-
4.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/-Rs. 1,20,000/- plus 30 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/

C. In case of every individual being a resident in India, who is of the age of eighty years or more at any time during the financial year:
Sl.No.Total IncomeRate of tax
1.Where the total income does not exceed Rs. 5,00,000/-Nil
2.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000 but does not exceed Rs. 10,00,000/20 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 5,00,000/
4.Where the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/-Rs. 1,00,000/- plus 30 per cent of the amount by which the total income exceeds Rs. 10,00,000/-

2.2 Surcharge on Income tax:
The amount of income-tax computed in accordance with the preceding provisions of this Paragraph, or the provisions of section 111A or section 112 of the Income-tax Act, shall, in the case of every individual or Hindu undivided family or association of
persons or body of individuals, whether incorporated or not, or every artificial juridical person referred to in sub-clause (vii) of clause (31) of section 2 of the Income-tax Act, having a total income exceeding one crore rupees, be increased by a surcharge for the purpose of the Union calculated at the rate of fifteen per cent of such income-tax:
Provided that in the case of persons mentioned above having total income exceeding one crore rupees, the total amount payable as income-tax and surcharge on such income shall not exceed the total amount payable as income-tax on a total income of one crore rupees by more than the amount of income that exceeds one crore rupees.

2.3.1 Education Cess on Income tax:
The amount of income-tax including the surcharge if any, shall be increased by Education Cess on Income Tax at the rate of two percent of the income-tax.

2.3.2 Secondary and Higher Education Cess on Income-tax:
An additional education cess is chargeable at the rate of one percent of income-tax including the surcharge if any, but not including the Education Cess on income tax as in 2.3.1.

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Government lays down specific timeline for completing enquiry against officers and members of All India Services

Govt lays down specific 'timeline' for completing enquiry against officers and members of All India Services

Government has laid down specific timeline for completing enquiry against officers and members of All India Services (AIS) within a given deadline, in a time-bound manner. Giving details about the DoPT (Department of Personnel & Training) decision, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the AIS (D&A) Rules, 1969 have been amended to provide specific timelines at different stages of the enquiry, with a view to complete the disciplinary proceedings against the members of All India Services in a time-bound manner.

As per the amended rules, a time limit of six months has been fixed for completion of departmental enquiry and submission of report. In case it is not possible to complete the enquiry within six months for justifiable reasons to be recorded in writing, additional time limit not exceeding six months at one time can be granted by the Disciplinary Authority, thereby ensuring accountability for completion of enquiry. Further, 30 days’ timeline has been fixed for the delinquent officers to give his representation to the charge-sheet which can be extended to not more than 30 days by the Disciplinary Authority and, in any case, no extension will be provided beyond 90 days. Similarly, a period of 15 days has been provided to send a representation on the advice of UPSC regarding the penalty to be imposed on the delinquent officer and for such representation also, no extension will be provided beyond 45 days.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, this amendment in the All India Service Rules has been brought, in keeping with the spirit of the Union Government led by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to bring in more accountability and time-bound completion of every exercise in the course of governance. The new amendment in the Rules, he said, will certainly strengthen the culture of working within deadlines and timelines without showing any slackness.

Meanwhile, Chairperson, Uttar Pradesh State Social Welfare Board (UPSSWB), Dr (Ms) Rupal Agarwal today called on Dr Jitendra Singh and provided her assessment about the performance of the various functionaries in the Board. She also brought to the notice of the Minister acts of omission or commission by certain officials. Dr Jitendra Singh took a note of the different issues raised by Dr Rupal Agarwal. He said, the Central Government accords high priority to programmes relating to upliftment of women, children and poor sections of the society. He also assured her that the issues raised by her will be brought to the notice of the concerned quarters.

Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968

Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968

No. 11017/02/2017-AIS-III
Government of India
Ministry of Personnel, PG & Pensions
Department of Personnel & Training
North Block, New Delhi,
Dated the 23rd January, 2017
The Chief Secretaries of All States / UTs

Subject: Filing of Immoveable Property Returns under Rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968.

Sir,
2.2016, wherein instructions regarding online filing of Immoveable Property Returns under rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968 were issued. In this regard, it is reiterated that all members of the All India Services shall continue to file Immoveable Property Returns (IPR) as on 1 st January and latest by 31 st January under rule 16(2) of AIS(Conduct) Rules, 1968. Accordingly, the same may please be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance.
2. This issues with the approval of Competent Authority.
(Rajes umar Yadav)
Under Secretary (Services)
Tele: 011-23094714
Source: DoPT Orders 2017

Secretary staff side/JCM writes to Shri Rajnath Singh about the demands of Central Government Employees

Secretary staff side/JCM writes to Shri Rajnath Singh about the demands of Central Government Employees

Shiva Gopal Mishra
Secretary
Ph: 23382286
National council (staff Side)
Joint Consulative Machinery for
Central Government Employees
13-C, Ferozshah Road, New Delhi-110001
E-Mail : nc.jcm.np@gmail.com
No.NC-JCM-2016/7th CPC
Dated: January 17, 2017
Shri Rajnath Singh,
Hon’ble Home Minister,
North Block
New Delhi

Dear Sir,
We solicit your kind reference to the discussion the Staff Side delegation had with you and your esteemed colleagues in the Cabinet - Hon’ble Finance Minister, Railway Ministers - on 3oth June 206 and subsequently with your good self on 6th July 2016. In the light of the assurance held out for reconsideration of the minimum wage and multiplication factor through the setting up of a high level committee within a time frame of four months, the National JCA had deferred the strike action which was to commence from 11.07.2016.

We had been patiently waiting for a meaningful discussion in the matter ever since then. Not only there had been any worthwhile or meaningful discussions thereafter but no settlement was also brought about till today though more than six months have been elapsed.

The National JCA met yesterday (17-01-2017) and almost all members expressed extreme disappointment over the turn of events. However, they felt that a meeting with your good self must be sought to sort out the issue amicably.

We shall therefore be grateful if you can indicate a date and time convenient to you, so that the undersigned along with Dr. M Raghaviah, the Leader of Staff Side, JCM could call on you with a view to explore reaching an agreement. Incidentally, we feel that it must be our responsibility to convey to you that the Central Govt Employees throughout the country are extremely critical of the fact that the Government had not found it possible to accept even a single issue taken up the Staff Side, JCM after the 7th CPC submitted its recommendations to the Government.

This apart, the CG Pensioners numbering presently more than the working employees are aggrieved of the fact that the one and only recommendation of the 7th CPC which was in their favour i.e. option No.1 have been recommended to be rejected by the Pension Department to the Government.
Expecting a communication for an early meeting and thanking you.
Sincerely Yours,
sd/-
(Shiva Gopal Mishra)
Secretary(Staff Side)
National Council(JCM)
Source: http://ncjcmstaffside.com/

Income tax exemption limit to be hiked to Rs 3 lakh

Income tax exemption limit to be hiked to Rs 3 lakh

New Delhi: The Finance Ministry is considering raising the current tax exemption limit from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh.

"A core commitee for Budget 2017 has proposed to revise tax exemption limit aimed to benefit small taxpayers," a top official involved with the process of Budget told The Sen Times on the condition on anonymity.

Income of Rs 3 lakh to 5 lakh may be taxed at 10% (the current slab is Rs. 2.5-5 lakh taxed at 10%); Rs 5-10 lakh will be taxed at 20% (currently also Rs 5-10 lakh is taxed at 20%); Rs 10 lakh and above to be taxed at 30% (Currently also Rs 10 lakh and above is taxed at 30%).

"There are chances that a hike in tax exemption limit may be announced, but I am not sure if it will go up to Rs 4 lakh. Realistically the Finance Minister may announce a hike from the current Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh or maybe even Rs 3.5 lakh. Rs 4 lakh would be a lot, because then a lot of people who currently pay tax would go out of the ambit," said a tax expert.

The government may also propose a higher super-rich tax for those who earn more than Rs 10 crore a year.

So, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley may have some good news for the salaried people in the budget for 2017-18.

CGHS CONTRIBUTION ENHANCED WITH EFFECT FROM 01.01.2017

CGHS CONTRIBUTION ENHANCED WITH EFFECT FROM 01.01.2017

Consequent to revision in the pay structure of Central Govt. employees, CGHS contribution is going to be enhanced from 01.01.2017 at the following rate :

Sr. No.Level in the Pay MatrixContribution per month (Rs)
1Level 1 to 5250
2Level 6450
3Level: 7 to 11650
4Level 12 and above1000

Click here to view the O.M. for change in other entitlements.

WE WANT POSITIVE ACTION AND NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT - CONFEDERATION

WE WANT POSITIVE ACTION AND NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT - CONFEDERATION
AGAIN ASSURANCES

WE DON’T WANT ANY MORE ASSURANCES - WE WANT POSITIVE ACTION AND NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT - SEVEN MONTHS ARE OVER AFTER THE JUNE 30th ASSURANCES - AGAIN SWEET WORDS AND ASSURANCES BY HON’BLE HOME MINISTER AND CABINET SECRETARY - THIS TIME NO TIME FRAME - PENSION COMMITTEE REPORT UNILATERALLY SUBMITTED TO CABINET WITHOUT REACHING ANY NEGOTITED SETTLEMENT WITH STAFF SIDE - THE ONE AND THE ONLY POSITIVE RECOMMENDATION OPTION -1 FOR PENSIONERS IS GOING TO BE REJECTED - FATE OF OTHER COMMITTEES MAY NOT BE DIFFERENT IF THERE IS NO NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT - ALLOWANCE COMMITTEE NOT YET CONCEDED THE DEMAND OF JCM STAFFSIDE SECRETARY FOR GIVING ANOTHER CHANCE FOR DISCUSSION - NO NEGOTIATED SETTLEMENT ON ANY ISSUES - GOVT MADE JCM FORUM ONLY A TALKING SHOP - NEIROS ARE FIDDELING WHEN ROME IS BURNING - CENTRAL GOVT. EMPLOYEES AND PENSIONERS CANNOT BE FOOLED ANY MORE - ENOUGH IS ENOUGH - MAKE THE 16th MARCH 2016 ONE DAY STRIKE A THUNDERING SUCCESS.

M. KRISHNAN
Secretary General
Confederation
Mob & WhatsApp: 09447068125.
Email : mkrishnan6854@gmail.com
Source: Confederation

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