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Government of India
Ministry of Railways
Railway Board

 ORDERS/INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED FROM RAILWAY BOARD
DURING THE YEAR 2002 (1st JULY to 30TH SEPTEMBER)
ON STAFF RELATED MATTERS
AT A GLANCE

 Compiled by :
Industrial Relations Directorate

PREFACE

The various orders / instructions issued by the different directorates of Railway Board during the year 2002 (1st July to 30 September) on Establishment / Staff related matters have been compiled as a booklet to facilitate all concerned as a ready reference.  They have been grouped section-wise and in the order of RBE numbers assigned to them during the year.  To make it brief and concise, only the gist / operative portion of the instructions have been incorporated.  

 I N D E X
Establishment Directorate  - General || Welfare || Sports || Discipline&Appeals || Labour || Pay & Allow. || Railway Recruitment
Pay Commission Directorate
  Finance Directorate   
Management Services Directorate

GIST OF INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED BY RAILWAY BOARD ON STAFF
MATTERS DURING THE YEAR 2002 (FROM 1ST JULY TO 30TH SEPTEMBER) 

INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED FROM ESTABLISHMENT DIRECTORATE 
BY ESTT. (NON-GAZETTED) SECTIONS

RBE No. Gist of Instructions Letter No. & Date 
95/2002 Cancellation of selections – recording of reasons. 

The Central Administrative Tribunal, Allahabad Bench in their order dt. 21.3.2002 in OA No. 359/2001 have inter alia observed as under:- 

“…….. we direct the office that a copy of this order shall be sent to the Chairman, Railway Board for considering the necessary action in the matter, so that such arbitrary action may not be repeated in future.  We suggest the Chairman, Railway Board that in such circumstances it may be made obligatory on the officers to disclose reasons in the order if cancellation of the selection is required.”

 E(NG)I-2002/PM3/3
dt. 3.7.2002
100/2002 Calling of options from staff to serve in the Headquarters of the new Railway Zones – Determination of seniority of staff on transfer to the New Zones. 

In this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 6.12.96 as modified/clarified vide letters of same number dt. 21.3.97, 19.8.97, 20.8.97, 5.5.97, 23.7.97, 13.11.97, 31.3.98 and 26.5.98 instructions were issued for calling options from the staff to work in the headquarters offices of the new zonal Railways subject to the conditions as stipulated therein. 

2.   In para 5 of this Ministry’s letter dt. 6.12.96 it has been stipulated that seniority of staff coming on transfer from the existing zonal Railways to the headquarter offices of the new zonal Railways should be determined in each grade on the basis of non-fortuitous length of service in the grade as on the date of new zonal Railway becoming operational.  The requisite notifications constituting two new zonal Railways namely East Central Railway with its headquarters at Hajipur and North Western Railway with its headquarters at Jaipur, w.e.f. 1.10.2002 with the following jurisdiction, have since been issued vide this Ministry’s Notifications No. 97/E&R/700/1/Notification both dated 14.6.2002:- 

i)  East Central Railway, Hajipur – Existing Sonpur and Samastipur Divisions of North Eastern Railway. 

-         Existing Danapur, Mughalsarai and Dhanbad Divisions of Eastern Railways. 

ii)   North Western Railway, Jaipur -  Existing Bikaner and Jodhpur Divisions of Northern Railway. 

-         Existing Jaipur and Ajmer Divisions of Western Railway.

3.  The question of allowing fresh options to staff for working in the headquarter offices of the above two new zonal Railways has been considered by the Ministry of Railways in view of the following:

(i)  change in the jurisdiction of the new zonal Railways, if any, from the one as contemplated/taken into account while calling options initially in terms of this Ministry’s letter dt. 6.12.96; and 

(ii)  date for exercising options being current only up to 30.9.98 vide this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 26.5.98. 

4.   The Ministry of Railways have decided that in view of the above fresh options, as considered necessary and as may be decided mutually between the respective CPOs of the new zonal Railway(s) and of the existing zonal Railway(s) has/have been carved out, may be called for from the staff for working in the headquarter offices of the above two new zonal Railways strictly as per the priority laid down in para 2 of this Ministry’s letter of even no. dt. 6.12.96 as modified subject to the following further conditions:- 

(i)  The options may be exercised latest by 15.9.2002 

(ii)  The staff short-listed for transfer/posting to the headquarter offices of the new zonal Railways should be in position by 30.9.2002 for which the CPOs of the existing zonal Railways should ensure that the staff concerned are relieved as soon as requested by the new zonal Railways. 

(iii)  Any transfer to the headquarter offices of these two new zonal Railways on or after 1.10.2002 will be treated as transfer on request on bottom seniority in recruitment grades subject to usual conditions governing such transfers being fulfilled. 

(iv)  Other conditions as stipulated in this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 6.12.96 will continue to apply.

 E(NG)I/96/TR/36 Vol.II 
dt. 9-7-2002
102/2002 Recommendation of the Commissioner for Railway Safety on rear-end collision and subsequent derailment of last two coaches of 214 Dn Passenger with light engine No. 17528 of 132 Dn at Dumri Halt between Barhiya-Mankatha block section of Danapur Division of Eastern Railway on 20.11.02 – Consideration of awards/punishments awarded to the employees at the time of promotion to non-gazetted selection posts. 

In the Railway Board’s instructions contained in their letter No. E(NG)I-89/PM2/6 dt. 31.1.90, the Railways were directed to evolve suitable check list and guidelines for the members of the Selection Board for departmental selections for filling up non-gazetted posts.  Along with the said letter a copy of the check list and guidelines evolved by South Central Railway in this regard was also circulated for adoption by the other Railways with such modifications as may be considered necessary.  The above guidelines inter-alia provide that the Selection Board for departmental selections for non-gazetted posts while awarding marks under the head “Record of Service’ should take into account the entries in respect of awards and punishments given and that while addition of marks should be allowed for every cash award/merit certificate subject to the total marks allotted under the head not being exceeded, deduction has to be made for each major/minor penalty imposed during the period for which the Confidential Reports are considered in the selection. 

The Commissioner of Railway Safety, South Central Circle in his Report on the subject ‘accident’, has inter-alia recommended that for promotion of Goods Driver as Passenger Driver, punishments/rewards during the entire service period should be considered.  The above recommendation of the CRS has been carefully considered by the Board.  It is considered that the extant procedure is adequate to meet the objective in view.  Therefore, while it has not been found feasible to accept the recommendation for considering punishments awarded during the entire service period at the time of promotion from Goods Driver to Passenger Driver, it has been decided to reiterate the extant instructions as stated in para 1 above.  The Board, therefore, desire that the Railways should ensure that the relevant instructions are strictly followed by the Selection Boards. 

 E(NG)I-2002/PM7/16
dt. 11.7.2002
104/2002 CORRIGENDUM 

Calling of options from staff to serve in the Headquarters of the new Railway Zones-Determination of seniority of staff on transfer to the New Zones. 

The words “The General Managers” appearing in the address of the above letter may be read as “The OSDs/General Managers.” 

 E(NG)I/96/TR/36 Vol.II 
dt. 11-7-2002
106/2002

Filling up the post of Welfare Inspector, Gr.III in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000 – qualifications etc., for. 

Consolidated instructions in regard to filling up the post of Welfare Inspector, Gr. III in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000 issued afresh as in the following paragraphs. 

Eligibility Criteria:- 

The following staff will be considered eligible to volunteer for appearing in the selection for promotion to the post of Welfare Inspector Gr.III in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000: 

i)   Group ‘C’ staff in possession of any of the following qualifications irrespective of the grade or length of service or other educational qualifications. 

a)      Diploma in Labour Welfare/Social Welfare;

b)      Diploma in Labour Laws;

c)      LLB with paper(s) in Labour Laws;

d)     Post Graduate Diploma in Personnel Management awarded by an institution recognized by the Government of India; and

e)  MBA with paper(s) in Personnel Management awarded by an Institution recognized by the Government of India. 

Provided that staff working in grade Rs. 5000-8000 or above on regular basis will not be eligible to appear in the aforesaid selection. 

Provided further that eligibility of staff in possession of qualification as mentioned above will also be subject to the condition that they have successfully completed the probation in the respective grade. 

ii)  Group ‘D’ staff who have completed at least 7 years’ service in Group ‘C’ and are in possession of any of the qualification mentioned in (i) above. 

iii)   Staff in the grades next below the grade of Welfare Inspector i.e., those in grades Rs. 4500-7000 and Rs. 4000-6000 with 5 years service in the respective grade in case the higher grade does not fall in the normal line of advancement, otherwise 5 years service together in these grades. 

iv)      Staff in the grades Rs. 4500-7000 and 4000-6000 who are Graduates irrespective of the length of service in these grades provided the staff concerned have successfully completed the probation in the respective grades. 

v) Staff in grades lower than the grade next below the grade of Welfare Inspector i.e., those in grades Rs. 3200-4900 and Rs. 3050-4590 who are Graduates and who have completed not less than 7 years service in the respective grade in case the higher grade does not fall in the normal line of advancement, otherwise, 7 years service together in these grades. 

Procedure for holding selection and empanelment. 

All staff who satisfy the conditions prescribed above would be subjected to a selection which will consist of a Written Test and an Oral Test and final panel drawn up as per procedure prescribed in para 219(j) of the Indian Railway Establishment Manual, Vol.I (1989 Edition) as amended vide ACS No. 66 issued under Board’s letter No. E(NG)I/98/PM1/11 dated 16.11.98. 

E(NG)I-2002/PM4/1
dt. 12.7.2002
117/2002 Calling of options from staff to serve in the Headquarters of the new Railway Zones-Determination of seniority of staff on transfer to the New Zones. 

In this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 6.12.96 as modified/clarified vide letters of same number dt. 21.3.97, 19.8.97, 20.8.97, 20.8.97, 5.5.97, 23.7.97, 13.11.97, 31.3.98 and 26.5.98 instructions were issued for calling options from the staff to work in the headquarters offices of the new zonal Railways subject to the conditions as stipulated therein. 

2.  In para 5 of this Ministry’s letter dt. 6.12.96 it has been stipulated that seniority of staff coming on transfer from the existing zonal Railways to the headquarter offices of the new zonal Railways should be determined in each grade on the basis of non-fortuitous length of service in the grade as on the date of new zonal Railways becoming operational.  The requisite notification constituting five new zonal Railways namely East Coast Railway, Bhubaneswar; North Central Railway, Allahabad; South East Central Railway, Bilaspur; South Western Railway, Hubli; and West Central Railway, Jabalpur, w.e.f. 1.4.2003 with the following jurisdiction, has since been issued vide this Ministry’s Notification No. 97/E&R/700/1/Notification dated 4.7.2002:- 

S.No. Railway/HQ Area of Jurisdiction
i) East Coast Railway, Bhubaneswar * Khurda Road, Waltair; and Sambalpur Divisions of South Eastern Railway.
ii) North Central Railway, Allahabad;

*Allahabad Division of Northern Railway as re-organised vide notification No. 98/E&R?700/1/

Notification dt. 4.7.2002.

*Jhansi Division of Central Railway as re-organised vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/Notification dt. 4.7.2002

*Agra Division as constituted vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/

Notification dt.4.7.2002
iii) South East Central Railway, Bilaspur;

*Nagpur Division of South Eastern Railway

*Bilaspur Division of South Eastern Railway as re-organised vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/

Notification dt. 4.7.2002

*Raipur Division as constituted vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/

Notification dt. 4.7.2002
iv) South Western Railway, Hubli; and

*Bangalore and Mysore Divisions of Southern Railway.

*Hubli Division of South Central Railway as re-organised vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/

Notification dt. 4.7.02
v) West Central Railway, Jabalpur.

*Jabalpur & Bhopal Divisions of Central Railway.

*Kota Division of Western Railway as reorganized vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/Notification dt. 4.7.2002

 3.  The question of allowing fresh options to staff for working in the headquarter offices of the above five new zonal Railways has been considered by the Ministry of Railways in view of the following:- 

(i)  change in the jurisdiction of new zonal Railways, if any, from the one as contemplated/taken into account while calling options initially in terms of this Ministry’s letter dt. 6.12.96;

(ii)  creation of new Divisions and re-organisation of existing Divisions vide notification No. 98/E&R/700/1/Notification dt. 4.7.2002; and

(iii)  date for exercising options being current only up to 30.9.98 vide this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 26.5.98. 

4.  The Ministry of Railways have decided that in view of the above fresh options, as considered necessary and as may be decided mutually between the respective CPOs of the new zonal Railways and of the existing zonal Railways from whose territorial jurisdiction the new Zones have been carved out, may be called for from the staff for working in the headquarter offices of the above five new zonal Railways strictly as per the priority laid down in para 2 of this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 6.12.96 as modified subject to the following further conditions:- 

(i) The options may be exercised latest by 30.1..2002 

(ii) The staff short-listed for transfer/posting to the headquarter offices of the new zonal Railways should be in position as per schedule advised by the new Zonal Railways but in any case latest by 31.3.2003 for which the CPOs of the existing zonal railways should ensure that the staff concerned are relieved as soon as requested by the new zonal Railways. 

(iii) Any transfer to the headquarter offices of these five new zonal Railways on or after 1.4.2003 will be treated as transfer on request on bottom seniority in recruitment grades subject to usual conditions governing such transfers being fulfilled. 

(iv) Other conditions as stipulated in this Ministry’s letter of even No. dt. 6.12.96 will continue to apply. 

5.  The staff exercising option for working in the headquarter offices of the new Zonal Railways should also signify their consent for receiving their salary and other payments by cheque.  This may be ensured.  In this connection instructions contained in Board’s letter No. 2002/ACII/21/13 dt. 19.7.2002 refer.

 E(NG)I/96/TR/36 Vol.II dt.19.7.2002
120/2002 CORRIGENDUM 

Calling of options from staff to serve in the Headquarters of the new Railway Zones – Determination of seniority of staff on transfer to the New Zones. 

In Para 4(i) of the above letter the last date “15.9.2002” for exercising option may be corrected to read as “31.8.2002” 

 E(NG)I/96/TR/36 Vol.II
 dt. 22.7.2002
123/2002

Mode of filling up posts of ASM in Scale Rs. 4500-7000 – Modification of.

 The posts in the category of Assistant Station Master in Grade Rs. 4500-7000 are filled as under:- 

(i)   60% by direct recruitment from amongst persons having the qualification of Graduation, through RRBs as per the existing procedure; 

(ii)   15% by Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE) from amongst Group ‘C’ and ‘D’ staff of Operating and Commercial Departments in grades below the grade Rs. 4500-7000 with an upper age limit of 45 years (50 years in the case of SC/ST) and qualification of Graduation subject to the condition that Group ‘D’ staff have rendered a minimum of 5 years regular Railway service, shortfall, if any, against the quota being made good by direct recruitment; and 

(iii)     25% by general selection from amongst employees possessing the qualification of Matriculation and working as Shunting Jamadars, Shunting Masters, Cabinmen Gr.I, Switchmen, Sr. Signallers and Sr. TNCs in grade Rs. 4000-6000 with an upper age limit of 45 years (50 years in the case of SC/ST), shortfall, if any, against the quota being made good by LDCE at (ii) above. 

2.    A demand has been made in the PNM-NFIR that Cabinmen Gr.II Pointsmen Gr.I, Levermen Gr.I, Shuntmen Gr.I and TNCs all in the pay scale of Rs. 3050-4590 may also be made eligible for appearing in the selection against 25% quota mentioned at 1(iii) above.  Earlier the AIRF also had proposed that staff in grade Rs. 3050-4590 may be considered along with staff in higher grade Rs. 4000-6000. 

3.      The Ministry of Railway have considered the matter carefully and decided that Cabinmen Gr.II, Pointsmen Gr.I, Levermen Gr.I, Shuntmen Gr.I and TNCs all in the pay scale of Rs. 3050-4590 may also be considered along with the staff in grade Rs.4000-6000 in the general selection for promotion to the post of ASM in grade Rs. 4500-7000 against the quota mentioned in 1(iii) above. 

Advance Correction Slip No. 135 refers. 

 E(NG)I-97/PM2/8
dt. 25.7.2002
124/2002 Amendment to IREM. 

The Ministry of Railways have decided that the Indian Railway Establishment Manual, Volume I (Revised Edition 1989) be amended as per Advance Correction Slips Nos. 136, 137 and 138. 

 E(NG)I/99/PM8/2
dt. 29.7.2002
131/2002 Scheme of General Departmental Competitive Examination (GDCE) for filling up 25% of Direct Recruitment quota posts in Group ‘C’ categories – Delegation of powers to the General Managers to fill up DR quota vacancies by GDCE in excess of 25% of net DR quota vacancies. 

During the course of discussion on Item No. 39/2001 in the PNM-AIRF meeting held on 18-19/4/02, the Federation pointed out that the restriction regarding eligibility for appearing in the GDCE for filling up the post of Diesel Assistant/Electric Assistant contained in para 4 of Board’s letter ibid needs to be removed. 

The matter has been carefully considered by the Board and it has been decided to remove the restriction imposed vide para 4 of Board’s letter dt. 21.1.02 regarding filling up the post of Diesel Assistant/Electric Assistant so as to make the staff other than in the Workshops and Production Units fulfilling the conditions also eligible to appear in the GDCE provided the optees are from a category or seniority unit clearly identified as having a surplus. 

 E(NG)I/2001/PM2/12
dt. 8.8.2002
135/2002 Calling of options from staff to serve in the Headquarters of the new Railway Zones-Determination of seniority of staff on transfer to the New Zones. 

Ministry of Railways have decided that the employees working in the Ministry, RDSO, Railway Staff College, Vadodara and other Training Institutes who are borne in the cadres of these Organisations should also be allowed options for working in the Headquarters offices of the new Zonal Railways along with the employees of all Zonal Railways/PUs against shortfall, if any, as per priority at para 2(iv) of this Ministry’s letter of even number dt. 6.12.96 

Accordingly options from non-gazetted staff of the above mentioned Organisations for working in one of the Headquarters offices of the new Zonal Railways may be called for/entertained up to 31.8.02 in respect of East Central Railway, Hajipur; and North Western Railway, Jaipur and up to 30.11.02 in respect of other five new Zonal Railways namely, East Coast Railway, Bhubaneswar; North Central Railway, Allahabad; South East Central Railway, Bilaspur; South Western Railway, Hubli; and West Central Railway, Jabalpur.  The transfer to the headquarter offices of the new Zonal Railways will be subject to conditions stipulated in this Ministry’s letter of even number dt. 6.12.96.

 E(NG)I/96/TR/36 Vol.II 
dt. 12.8.2002
136/2002 Selection of Intermediate Apprentices from amongst Skilled Artisans for absorption as JE Gr.II in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000 in various departments. 

In terms of the extant procedure, as prescribed in para 142(I) (ii) of IREM, Vol.I, 1989, 25% of the vacancies in the category of JE Gr.II (C&W) in the pay scale of Rs.5000-8000 are filled by induction of Intermediate Apprentices from amongst Skilled Artisans with qualification of Matriculation and three years service in skilled grades. 

2.    The Railway Safety Review Committee in Part I of their report have recommended that the minimum educational qualification for appearing in the selection of Intermediate Apprentices for absorption as Train Examiners (since redesignated as JE Gr.II(C&W) ) against 25% quota should be enhanced from existing qualification of Matriculation to ITI/Act Apprenticeship and that the existing condition of three years service may be revised to five years.  The matter has been considered carefully by the Ministry of Railways.  The views of both the Federations have also been taken into account.  Taking all aspects into consideration the Ministry of Railways have decided not to accept the recommendation regarding revision of service condition.  However, the recommendation regarding revision of qualification of ITE/Act Apprenticeship has been accepted.  It has also been decided to prescribe qualification of 10+2 in Science stream as an alternative qualification to ITI/Act Apprenticeship. 

2.1   Further, in order to maintain uniformity, it has also been decided to make applicable the enhanced qualification for selection as Intermediate Apprentices for absorption as JE Gr.II in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000 in all other categories/departments wherever the system of induction of inter-apprentices from serving employees is applicable.  It has accordingly been decided that educational qualification for consideration for selection as Intermediate Apprentices in all categories/Deptt. for absorption as JE Gr. II in the pay scale of Rs. 5000-8000 should henceforth be ITI/Act Apprenticeship pass or 10+2 in Science stream.

 E(NG)I/99/PM7/17
dt. 12.8.2002
141/2002 Procedure for preventing fraudulent transfers – Question regarding. 

Decided that requirement of affixing photographs of the employees in case of transfers ordered on administrative grounds including periodical transfers should not be insisted upon. 

 E(NG)I-2001/TR/16
dt. 20.8.2002
147/2002

CORRIGENDUM 

Countersigning of Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) of Supervisors posted for station maintenance at all ‘A’ Class Stations. 

Read the following for the existing contents of Board’s above cited letter:- 

“It has been decided by the Board that Station Managers/Station Superintendents will be responsible for cleanliness/sanitation of platforms, circulating areas, retiring rooms, waiting rooms and other passenger interface areas.  The supervisors of the Engineering, Electrical and Medical Departments for all ‘A’ Class stations shall be under the control of the station in-charge i.e. Station Manager/Station Superintendent in respect of the duties assigned to the respective Supervisors with regard to upkeep of Station premises, etc.  While posting the supervisors at the ‘A’ class stations, care should be taken to see that these supervisors when posted for station maintenance are not in the grade higher than that of the Station Managers/Station Superintendents.  The administrative control of the Supervisors shall remain with the respective Departments but the Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs) should be countersigned by the Station Manager/Station Superintendent in respect of their duties and functions with regard to maintenance and upkeep of premises at that station.” 

 E(NG)I-2001/CR/2
dt. 29.8.2002
157/2002

Filling up non-gazetted posts in Railways – classification of posts as Safety Categories.

Ministry of Railways have decided to add the category of Gangmen in the list of Safety Categories. 

 E(NG)I-2002/PM-1/26
 dt. 11-9-2002
159/2002

The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) ) Act 1995 – Absorption in alternative employment of disabled/medically decategorised staff. 

Reference S.Rly’s letter No. P(R)II/P/Vol. III dated 12.12.01 on the above subject. 

2.  The points raised by the Railway in the above letter in connection with implementation of the Act in regard to absorption of disabled/medically decategorised employees in the same scale of pay are clarified as under:- 

Points Clarification

i)  Whether request of the employees refusing to take up alternative posts in the same grade involving transfer, for absorption in posts carrying lower scale of pay locally can be agreed to.

There is no objection to such requests being accepted provided the employee continues to enjoy the same scale of pay in which he was working on regular basis at the time of his medical decategorisation on the analogy of clarificatory instructions contained in this Ministry’s letter No. E(NG)I-2001/RE3/5 dated 26.6.2002. 
ii)  Whether employees with less than 20 years of service opting to quit the Railways can be settled under rule 55 of Railways Services (Pension) Rules –1993 duly taking 10 years as the minimum required qualifying service for pension and other benefits. Yes, such cases can be settled in terms of Rule 55 of Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993 read with Rule 69 (2) (b) of Rules ibid.  
iii)  How to deal with cases of employees who are offered alternative posts in the same grade but are unable to perform duties attached to the posts owing to their physical condition. Since absorption in the alternative posts is as per the employees medical category as recommended by the appropriate Medical Authority, the question of his not being able to perform the duties attached to the post should not arise.  However, if the tendency persists, the cases may be referred for review and simultaneously job counseling for adaptation to new jobs/tasks given.

Clarification on points at 2(ii) and 2(iii) above issue with the concurrence of the Finance and the Health Dtes. respectively of the Ministry of Railways. 

 E(NG)I-2001/RE-3/9
DT. 18.9.2002
163/2002

Exemption from periodical transfers of SMs/ASMs posted at Way Side Stations involved only in train passing duties. 

It has been decided that SMs/ASMs posted at Way Side Stations and involved only in train passing duties may be exempted from the purview of periodical transfers.  Accordingly, S.No. 2 in item “J. Operating Department” in the Annexure to this Ministry’s letter dated 27.9.89, may be read as under:- 

“2.  Station Masters/Assistant Station Masters except those working/posted as Cabin Station Masters and at Way Side/Crossing Stations involved only in train passing duties and not doing any commercial duties.” 

It is also clarified that the changes in the list of sensitive posts can be made only by the Ministry of Railways.

 E(NG)I-2002/TR/19
dt. 13.9.2002
169/2002

Avenue of promotion to Announcers. 

The matter has been considered carefully in the light of discussion in the DC-JCM meeting held on 26-27/8/2002.  As the Railways are aware, usually staff working in Commercial cadres of ECRC, Commercial Clerks and Ticket Collectors are utilized as Announcers.  In terms of the extant procedure such staff while working as Announcers on an ex-cadre basis continue to be considered for promotion in their parent cadres(s).  Since they come from different cadres, there cannot be uniformity in their avenue of promotion, but it should be ensured that such staff are invariably considered for selection/promotion as per their seniority in their parent cadre(s).  In isolated cases where, as an aberration, direct recruitment in the category of Announcers has been made, the Ministry of Railways desire that the incumbents should be provided position against direct recruitment quota posts and thus linked with a relevant existing regular cadre for the purpose of further promotion, in consultation with the recognized unions. 

It should also, however, be ensured that in future no direct recruitment as Announcers takes place.  

E(NG)I-2002/PM1/34
dt. 23.9.2002
111/2002 Engagement of Substitutes in Group ‘C’ categories on the Railways. 

Decided that at the time of initial engagement of a person as a Substitute against a Group ‘C’ post, the Zonal Railway / Production Unit must ensure that the candidate possesses the prescribed direct recruitment educational qualification for the post against which he is to be engaged.  Further, at the time of seeking extension of currency in such cases, a certificate to the effect that the said candidate possesses the current prescribed direct recruitment educational qualification for the post must be furnished by the Railway/Production Unit. 

Similarly such a certificate should be furnished at the time of forwarding of the proposal for regularization of the candidate.  Board desire that the cases of Substitutes in Group ‘C’ should be reviewed in this light. 

 E(NG)-II/2001/SB/SE/24 dt. 17.7.2002
113/2002 Amendment of IREM – Provision regarding filling up of posts in pursuance to implementation of post based roster. 

The Ministry of Railways have decided that the Indian Railway Establishment Manual, Vol.-I (1989 Edition) may be amended as per Advance Correction Slip No. 134.

 E(NG)II/2001/RR-1/44 
dt. 23.7.2002
116/2002

Formation of new Zonal Railways – Creation and transfer of posts.

 Reference this Ministry’s letters of even number dated 2.1.97, 29.8.97 and 31.10.97 regarding transfer of Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ posts from the headquarter offices of the existing Zonal Railways from whose territorial jurisdiction the new zones were carved out and creation of posts for operation in the headquarter offices of the new Zonal Railways using the posts transferred as matching surrender. 

1.1 Attention in this connection is also invited to the two gazette notifications bearing No. 97/E&R/700/1/Notification dated 14.6.02 constituting the two new Zonal Railways viz East Central Railway with headquarters at Hajipur and North Western Railway with headquarters at Jaipur w.e.f. 1.10.2002. 

1.      The question of revising the extent of reduction in the existing sanctioned strength of Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ posts in the headquarter offices of the existing Zonal Railways and its transfer to the headquarter offices of these two new Zonal Railways has been considered by the Ministry of Railways in view of the notification referred to in para 1.1. above and the change in the jurisdiction of East Central Railway.  Accordingly, in partial modification of percentages/extent indicated in para 2(ii) of the Ministry’s letter dated 2.1.1997, it has been decided that the entries in respect of these two new Zonal Railways may be revised as under:- 

Existing Railways Reduction in the Group ‘C’ and ‘D’ posts of HQ office Extent of reduction in posts identified to be transferred to new.  Zonal Railways viz. ECR, Hajipur and NWR, Jaipur
1 2 3
  Existing Revised  
Northern 25% 25% Full to NWR/Jaipur
Western 25% 25% Full to NWR/Jaipur
Eastern 29% 43% Full to ECR/Hajipur
North Eastern 40% 40% Full to /ECR/Hajipur

3.   Northern, Western, Eastern and North Eastern Railways should work out the money value of the posts to be transferred to East Central Railway, Hajipur/North Western Railway, Jaipur as per the percentages mentioned in para (2) above.  This amount should be credited to the vacany bank of East Central Railway/North Western Railway.  However since all the posts to be transferred may not be vacant, for the present, the transfer should be done against existing vacancies and subsequently as and when the posts keep getting vacated. 

4.   Other conditions mentioned in this office letter of even number dated 2.1.97 will continue to apply. 

5.    Further action to transfer the posts to these two new Zonal Railways may be taken urgently to ensure that the Railways become fully operational by 1/10/2002. 

 E(NG)-II/96/PO/Genl./3
 dt. 19.7.02
118/2002 Appointment on compassionate grounds – divorced/widowed daughter. 

Attention is invited to Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/2002/RC-1/ER/5 dt. 21.11.2001 wherein the Railways were advised to consider the cases of dependent divorced/widowed daughter for appointment on compassionate grounds, as in the case of married daughters.  The Railways were also advised in the said letter that this would be effective prospectively from the date of its issue and past cases need not be re-opened. 

In the meanwhile, a demand has been tabled by the Staff Side in the PNM/AIRF(No.28/2002) for the removal of the clause “Past cases need not be re-opened” contained in para –3 of the Board’s letter cited above and to advise the Railways to consider all such cases on merits. 

The matter has been considered by the Board and it has been decided that only those cases which were under process on the date of issue of Board’s letter dated 21.11.2001 may be considered by the Railways themselves on merits of each case.

 E(NG)II/2002/RC-1/Genl./5 dt.19.7.2002
126/2002 Appointment on compassionate grounds. 

Attention is invited vide Board’s letter No. E(NG)II/92/RC-1/112 dt. 22.11.94 laying down a set of guidelines to be followed by Railway administration while granting appointments on compassionate grounds. 

A demand has been tabled by the staff side in the JCM/DC (No. 5/2001) apprising the difficulties/delays on the Railways in providing appointment on compassionate grounds and that Welfare inspectors should be made accountable for any such delays.  The matter should be monitored by Sr. DPOs at Divisional level and CPOs at the Headquarters level. 

The matter has been considered and it has been decided that Board’s letter dated 22.11.94 should be strictly adhered to.  The cases of compassionate ground appointments should monitored by the Sr. DPOs at Divisional level and by the CPOs at the Headquarters level.

 E(NG)II/98/RC-1/64Pt.
 dt. 30.7.2002
130/2002 Formation of new Zonal Railways – creation and transfer of posts. 

The question of revising the extent of reduction in the existing sanctioned strength of Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ posts in the headquarter offices of the existing Zonal Railways and its transfer to the headquarter offices of these five new Zonal Railways has been considered by the Ministry of Railways.  

It has been decided that the entries in respect of these five new Zonal Railways may be revised as under:-  

Existing Railways

 Reduction in the
Group ‘C’ & ‘D’
posts of HQ office		 Extent of reduction in posts identified to be transferred to new Zonal Railways viz. ECOR/SWR/WCR/NCR/SECR.
1 2 3
Central 42.5% 14% to NCR/ALD & 28.5% to WCR/JBP
Western 12.5% Full to WCR/JBP
Northern 12.5% Full to NCR/ALD
Southern 28.5% Full to SWR/UBL
S.C. 20% Full to SWR/UBL
S.E. 62.5% 37.5% to ECOR/BBS & 25% to SECR/BSP

Central, Northern, Southern, South Central, South Eastern and Western Railways should work out the money value of the posts to be transferred to these new zones as per the percentages mentioned in para (2) above.  This amount should be credited to the vacancy bank of East Coast, South Western, West Central, North Central and South East Central Railways.  However since all the posts to be transferred may not be vacant, for the present, the transfer should be done against existing vacancies and subsequently as and when the posts keep getting vacated. 

Further action to transfer the posts to these five new Zonal Railways may be taken urgently to ensure that the Railways become fully operational by 1/4/2003. 

 E(NG)II/96/PO/Genl./3
 dt. 8.8.2002
160/2002 CORRIGENDUM 

Provision regarding filling up of posts in pursuance to implementation of post based roster. 

The letter numbers “99-E(SCT)I/49/5(1) and “99-E(SCT)I/49/5(2)” mentioned in the authority in ACS No. 134 circulated vide Board’s letter under reference may be read as “95-E(SCT)I/49/5(1)” and “95-E(SCT)I/49/5/(2)”

 E(NG)II/2001/RR-1/44
 dt. 12.9.2002

BY ESTT. (WEFARE) SECTION

TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

Letter No. & Date
08/2002

Travel facilities for Indian Railway personnel over Konkan Railway. 

Board have decided that all Privilege Passes issued to Railway employees should made valid for travel over KRC, on reciprocal basis. 

2.  All PTOs may also be allowed for journey over KRC without any restriction, as hitherto before. 

3.   Other conditions as laid down in Board’s letter of even number dated 11.1.99 shall remain the same.

 E(W)96PS5-1/15
dt. 11.7.2002
121/2002

Family Identity Cards to retiring/retired railway employees. 

Decided that attested photocopies of family identity cards may be treated as valid document while undertaking journey against post-retirement pass in a situation where at given point of time, eligible family members are traveling in different directions. 

 E(W)2001PS5-8/10
dt. 25.7.2002
122/2002

Issue of Kit/Settlement Passes in case of death of Railway employee who had been an allottee of Railway accommodation and his family is allowed retention of quarters. 

A demand from All India Railwaymen’s Federation for increasing the power of General Managers for issue of Kit/Settlement passes from two years to three years from the date of retirement/death of a railway employee has been considered by Board.  It has now been decided to amend the existing provision laid down in item 16(ii) of Schedule VII of Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986, so as to raise the normal time limit in the case of death of Railway employee in service, who had been an allottee of Railway accommodation and where his family is allowed retention of Railway accommodation upto 24 months, for grant of settlement pass upto two years with a view to ensure that every such case would not require to be treated as an exception wherein personal approval of GM/CPO/DRM would be necessary. 

Accordingly, Ministry of Railways have now decided that item 16(ii) of Schedule VII of Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986, be amended as in Advance Correction Slip No. 38. 

E(W)2001PS5-9/6
dt. 29.7.2002
125/2002

Supply of Uniform to Canteen staff. 

Consequent upon Judgement of the Principal Bench of honourable CAT, New Delhi the provisions relating to the pattern and scale of uniforms/livery items to canteen employees have been reviewed by DOP&T.  Keeping in view the directions contained in the Judgement, and functional requirement of canteen employees, revised instructions in this regard have been issued by DOP&T vide their letter No. 12/04/2001-Dire(C) dated 21.1.2002. 

These instructions supersede all earlier orders on the subject of supply of uniforms to canteen staff in so far as they relate to scale, item of uniform and periodicity of issue.

 E(W)2002UN1-2
dt/ 31/7.2002
140/2002

Facilities of Holiday Homes to Retired Railway Employees. 

It has now been decided by the Board that the retired Railway servants shall be given confirmed booking of Holiday Homes during periods other than Summer Vacations, Dussehra, Pooja & Christmas Holidays seven days prior to the date of occupation and the confirmed bookings shall not be cancelled during the last seven days preceding the date of occupation, in preference to a serving Railway employee. 

 E(W)2002/WE-2/2 
dt. 19-8-2002
156/2002 Surrender of Metal Pass by officers who avail of LAP for a short period in continuation of duty. 
Clarified that officers need not surrender Metal Pass after availing of L.A.P. for a short period, after performing outstation duty away from Headquarters and use their Metal Pass during return journey from the station from where they proceeded on leave.  		 E(W)99PS5-1/10
 dt. 9.9.2002
162/2002 Inclusion of children born on void marriage in the Widow Pass. 
It is clarified that children born out of void marriage are not eligible for inclusion in the Pass of a widow of a railway servant. 		 E(W)95PS5-1/29
dt/ 13.9.2002
170/2002

Issue of identity cards to Railway Pensioners. 

It has been further been decided by Board that ‘RELHS Card No.’ and ‘date of appointment’ may also be included in the format in appropriate place to make identity card more informative.

 E(W)2001PS5-8/10
dt. 26-9-2002
175/2002

Issue of Bronze Metal Pass/Card Pass to below JAG Officers with All India validity. 

As per extant instructions, Bronze metal pass/Card pass with all India validity to below JAG Officers/staff are not to be issued by Railway Administration.  In case of exigency only Card Pass for journey between the stations and for the period mentioned in such Card Pass is to be issued.  It has however, come to the notice of Board that certain Railways and Production Units are issuing card pass with All India validity to below JAG with the approval of concerned HODs. 

The entire issue in this connection has been reviewed by Board and it has been decided that Card Passes with All India validity may be issued to below JAG officers in the entitled class, with the personal approval of General Manager.  The power may be exercised very rarely and judiciously on merit of each case and should not be delegated further. 

In view of the above position, Railway Servants (Pass) Rules, 1986 (2nd Edition 1993) may be amended as per Advance Correction Slip No. 39. 

 E(W)2000PS5-1/21
dt. 26-9-2002
     
     

BY ESTT. (GENERAL) SECTION

TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

 Letter No. & Date
96/2002 Retention of Railway quarters at the previous place of posting in favour of Railway officers/staff deputed to IRCON exclusively for Quazigund-Baramulla Project. 

To achieve speedy completion of construction of 219 Kms. Railway line from Udhampur to Baramulla (Quazigund-Baramulla Project) in Jammu & Kashmir and in view of the risk perception and difficult working conditons, the Ministry of Railways (Railway Board), in terms of letter NO. E(G)99 RN5-2 dated 22-2-2001 had decided that Railway officers and staff deputed to Indian Railway Construction Company (IRCON) exclusively for Quazigund-Baramulla Project and actually serving in that area with Headquarters there for full tenure be permitted to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting during the period of such service in that area subject to a maximum period of two years from the date of joining the Project on payment of normal rent. 

On a reference from IRCON International Ltd. citing the problem that the retention allowed for a period of two years is acting as a disincentive for the officers/staff, the permission granted for retention of Railway accommodation has been reviewed by the Railway Board in their Meeting held on 30-5-2002. 

In exercise of the powers contained in their order No. E(G)99 QR1-16 dated 18-7-2000, the Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) further to letter No. E(G)99 RN5-2 dated 22-2-2001 have decided in public interest to relax the existing provision regarding retention/allotment of Railway accommodation and charging rent therefore in respect of the Railway officers/staff deputed to IRCON exclusively for Quazigund-Baramulla Project and actually serving in that area with Headquarters there for full tenure by permitting them to retain Railway accommodation at their previous place of posting during the period of such service in that area for full tenure of posting at the Project site.  

E(G)2002RN5-3
dt.3.7.2002
109/2002 Permission for retention of Railway accommodation in favour of the families of the missing Railway employees. 

It has now been decided that the family of missing Railway employee may be permitted retention of Railway quarters for a period of one year on payment of normal rent from the date of lodging of FIR (the period from the date from which the employee is missing till the date of filing FIR would automatically get regularized) with the police by the family of missing Railway employee.  On certification of the police authorities that the missing employee is not traceable and the whereabouts of the person could not be known, the family of the missing Railway employee may be permitted further retention of Railway quarter for a period of one year on payment of normal rent. 

These instructions will come into force from the date of issue. 

 E(G)2001 QR1-17 
dt. 17.7.2002
114/2002 Procurement of staff cars on replacement account. 

As the Railways are aware, proposals for replacement of staff cars of only the General Managers, Additional General Managers, Divisional Railway Managers, and officers of the level of erstwhile Rs. 7300-7600 (present scale 22,400-24,500) are to be considered in terms of instructions contained in Board’s letter No. E(G)97 AL4-25 dt. 18-8-98. 

The matter has been reviewed by the Board, and it has been decided that in addition to the above, proposals for replacement of staff cars of Coordinating HODs (CHODs) of every Department, irrespective of the grade, i.e. whether they are in SAG or HAG scale, will also be considered. 

It is re-iterated that the replacement of staff cars of officers other than the ones as mentioned above will not be considered and no such proposal be sent to Board’s office at all.

 E(G)2002 AL4-6
dt. 18.7.2002
115/2002 Provision of vehicles for the officers accompanying the Hon’ble Minister for Railways and Hon’ble Ministers of State for Railways. 

It has been found that during the various inspection visits/tours of the Zonal Railways by the Hon’ble Minister for Railways and Hon’ble Ministers of State for Railways, sometimes adequate vehicles are not provided for the officers accompanying the Hon’ble Ministers on these visits/tours. 

It is, therefore, advised that arrangement may please be made to provide separate vehicles to the officers accompanying the Hon’ble Ministers for Railways and the Hon’ble Ministers of State for Railways on such visits/tours, within the ambit of Rule 14 of the Staff Car Rules.  This can in most cases be done from the existing pool. 

 E(G)2002 AL4/18
dt. 22.7.2002
139/2002 NOTIFICATION 

S.O. No.    In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to article 309 and clause (5) of article 148 of the constitution, the President hereby makes the following rules further to amend the Railway Service (Pension) Rules, 1993 namely:- 

1. (i)   These rules may be called the Railway Services (Pension) Amendment Rules. 

     (ii)      They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the official Gazette. 

2.   In rule 11 of the Railway Services (Pension) Rules, 1993, sub-rule (4) shall be omitted. 

 E(G)2002 EM1/1
dt. 23.8.2002
146/2002 Retention of Railway accommodation at the previous place of posting in favour of officers/staff posted to new Zones. 

Ministry of Railways have set up seven new Zones namely East Central Railway, North Western Railway, East Coast Railway, South Western Railway, West Central Railway, North Central Railway and South East Central Railway.  East Central Railway and North Western Railway would be functional w.e.f. 1/10/2002 and the rest from 1/4/2003 in terms of notification dt. 14/6/2002 and 4/7/2002. 

The issue of retention of Railway quarters at the previous place of posting in favour of officers/staff posted to new Zones/Divisions has been considered by Railway Board in their Meeting held on 1/8/2002 and it was decided to extend some incentive to those officers/staff who are posted to new Zones/Divisions so that operationalisation of new Zones/Divisions become smooth. 

Now therefore, in exercise of the powers contained in their letter No. E(G)99 QR1-16 dt. 18.7.2000, the Ministry of Railways (Railway Board) have decided, in public interest to relax the existing provision and allow retention of Railway accommodation in favour of officers/staff posted to new Zones/Divisions at their previous places of posting for a period of one year on payment of normal rent subject to the following conditions: 

(i)  Such retention of Railway quarter at the previous place of posting will be allowed for period of one year from the date of relief o the official from the old posting or till a Railway quarter is allotted at the new Zones or leased accommodation is arranged by the officer, whichever is earlier. 

(ii)  A certificate must be given by an officer not below the rank of SDGM of the new zone about the officials intending to retain accommodation that they have applied/registered for allotment of entitled category of accommodation and that accommodation was not available at the new Zone.

 E(G)97 QR1-28
dt. 2.9.2002
155/2002 New Flag Code of India – 2002. 

The Ministry of Home Affairs had constituted a Committee to suggest the Liberal use/display of the National Flag by Members of the general public.  Based on the recommendation of the Committee, a New Flag Code of India-2002 has been brought out.  This new Flag Code has taken effect from 26th January, 202. 

The new Flag Code of India is divided into three parts.  Part-I of the Code contains general description of the National Flag.  Part-II is devoted to display of the National Flag by Members of the General public, private organizations, educational institutions, etc. 

Extracts of Part-II of the new Flag Code of India-2002, which relates to Government Departments/Organisations/Functionaries etc. circulated under Board’s letter No. E(G)2002CL4/3 dt. 5.9.02.

 E(G)2002 CL4/3
dt. 5.9.2002
164/2002

Retention of ear-marked/non-pooled Railway accommodation in the case of transfer, deputation, retirement, etc. 

It has been decided to supersede para –7 of Board’s letter No. E(G)2000 QR1-23 dated 1/6/2001 with the following: 

“7.   There exists a practice on the Railways whereby residential accommodation is ear-marked as non-pooled for use of nominated senior officials of Railways Units.  Such officers, holding ear-marked/non-pooled accommodation, on their retirement, transfer, deputation, etc may be permitted to retain such accommodation for a period of two months only on payment of normal rent.  During this period of two months, if the officer concerned requests for further retention of Railway accommodation, as admissible to him/her in terms of the general instructions governing retention of Railway accommodation in the case of transfer, deputation retirement, etc., an alternative accommodation for the purpose may be allotted, if feasible, on payment of rent as per extant instructions.  All other general instructions governing retention of Railway quarter and charging of rent shall be applicable in such cases.  It may be noted that no retention in respect of ear-marked/non-pooled accommodation should be permitted beyond the period of two months.

 E(G)2001 RN4-10
 dt. 17-9-2002
173/2002

Amendment of State Railway Provident Fund Rules. 

The Indian Railway Establishment Code Vol.I-1985 (Reprint edition 1995) may be amended as in the Advance Correction Slip No. 86. 

 E(G)2002 EM1/1
dt. 26-9-2002
BY ESTT. (DISCIPLINE & APPEALS) SECTION

TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

 Letter No. & Date
132/2002 NOTIFICATION 

In the Railway Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1968 (hereinafter referred to as the said rules), for rule 10, the following rule shall be substituted, namely:- 

“10.  Action on the inquiry report:- 

(1) If the disciplinary authority:- 

(a)  after considering the inquiry report, is of the opinion that further examination of any of the witnesses is necessary in the interest of justice, it may recall the said witness and examine, cross-examine and re-examine the witness;

(b)  is not itself the inquiring authority may, for reasons to be recorded by it in writing, remit the case to the inquiring authority for further inquiry and report and the inquiring authority shall thereupon proceed to hold further inquiry according to the provisions of rule 9, as far as may be. 

(2)  The disciplinary authority:- 

(a) shall forward or cause to be forwarded a copy of the report of the inquiry, if any, held by the disciplinary authority or where the disciplinary authority is not the inquiring authority a copy of the report of the inquiring authority, its findings on further examination of witnesses, if any held under sub-rule(1) (a) together with its own tentative reasons for disagreement, if any, with findings of the inquiring authority on any article of charge to the Railway servant, who shall be required to submit, if he so desires, his written representation or submission to the disciplinary authority within fifteen days, irrespective of whether the report is favourable or not the Railway Servant: 

(b)  shall consider the representation if any, submitted by the Railway Servant and record its findings before proceeding further in the matter as specified in sub-rules(3), (4) and (5). 

(3)  Where the disciplinary authority is of the opinion that the penalty warranted is such as is not within its competence, he shall forward the records of the inquiry to the appropriate disciplinary authority who shall act in the manner as provided in these rules. 

(4)   If the disciplinary authority having regard to its findings on all or any of the articles of charge, is of the opinion that any of the penalties specified in clauses(i) to (iv) of rule 6 should be imposed on the railway servant, it shall notwithstanding anything contained in rule 11, make an order imposing such penalty: 

Provided that in every case where it is necessary to consult the Commission, the record of the inquiry shall be forwarded by the disciplinary authority to the Commission for its advice and such advice shall be taken into consideration before making any order imposing any penalty on the Railway Servant. 

(5) If the disciplinary authority, having regard to its findings on all or any of the articles of charge and on the basis of the evidence adduced during the inquiry, is of the opinion that any of the penalties specified in clauses (v) to (ix) of rule 6 should be imposed on the railway servant, it shall make an order imposing such penalty and it shall not be necessary to give the railway servant any opportunity of making representation on the penalty proposed to be imposed: 

Provided that in every case where it is necessary to consult the Commission, the record of the inquiry shall be forwarded by the disciplinary authority to the Commission for its advice and such advice shall be taken into consideration before making an order imposing any such penalty on the railway servant”. 

In the said rules, for rule 12, the following rule shall be substituted, namely:-

“12. ‘Communication of Orders:- Order made by the disciplinary authority which would also contain its findings on each article of charge, shall be communicated to the Railway Servant who shall also be supplied with a copy of the advice, if any, given by the Commission and where the disciplinary authority has not accepted the advice of the Commission, a brief statement of the reasons for such non-acceptance’.

 E(D&A)87 RG6-151
 dt. 8.8.2002
150/2002 Sanction/intimation under Rule 15 of Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, 1966 for private trade or employment by the railway servant or members of his family. 

In terms of sub-rule(1) of Rule 15 of Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, no railway servant shall, except with the previous sanction of the Government, engage directly or indirectly in any trade or business, or negotiate for, or undertake any other employment.  Also, in terms of sub-rule (3) of Rule 15 of Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, a railway servant is required to report to the Government if any member of his family is engaged in a trade or business or owns or manages an insurance agency or commission agency.  For the purpose of these sub-rules, “Government” means the Railway Board in the case of all gazetted and non-gazetted staff in the Railways. 

Instance have come to notice wherein commercial activities are carried on from the railway quarters allotted to Railway Servants for residential purposes.  In this connection instructions have already been issued under Board’s letter No. E(G)2002 QR1-3 dt. 29.4.02 (RBE No.54/2002) clarifying, inter alia, that Railway accommodation allotted to a Railway servant is meant only for his/her bonafide use and cannot be used for any purpose other than residence.  Hence, when a request is received from a Railway Servant seeking sanction of the government under sub rule (1) of Rule 15 or when an intimation is given by him / her regarding business/commercial activity by any member of his/her family under sub-rule (3) of Rule 15, he/she should also indicate the address from which the activity will conducted.  It should be ensured that such activity is not being conducted and/or will not be conducted from the government/railway accommodation.  An undertaking to this effect may also be obtained from the Railway Servant concerned and enclosed with the proposal being sent to Railway Board for further necessary action.

 E(D&A)2000/GS 1-8
dt. 3.9.2002
167/2002

Procedure for non-CVC vigilance cases pertaining to Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ employees – Consultation with vigilance regarding. 

If in a case Vigilance has recommended imposition of major penalty and the Disciplinary Authority proposes to exonerate or impose a minor penalty, the Disciplinary Authority would first record his provisional order and then consult Vigilance Organisation once.  Likewise, where a major penalty has been imposed by the Disciplinary Authority in agreement with the recommendation of the Vigilance but the appellate/revisionary authority proposes to exonerate or impose a minor penalty, the appellate/revisionary authority would first record provisional decision and consult the vigilance Organization once.  After such consultation, the disciplinary/appellate/revisionary authority, as the case may be, is free to take final decision in the matter. 

Board has considered the matter further and has decided that the procedure brought out above will be followed in those cases also where the vigilance has recommended imposition of a “Stiff Major Penalty” namely compulsory retirement/removal/dismissal/ from service, but the Disciplinary/Appellate/Revisionary Authority, as the case may be, wishes to disagree and proposes to impose any of the other major penalties.

 E(D&A)2000RG6-30
 dt. 23-9-2002
168/2002

Need for issuing ‘Reasoned’ and Speaking Orders by Disciplinary/Appellate Authority in Discipline and Appeal cases. 

CAT/Allahabad Bench have brought to notice of this Ministry, a disciplinary case handled on a railway, where the tribunal have to quash the orders of both the Disciplinary and Appellate Authorities because these orders were cryptic and non speaking ones.  The judgement of the CAT brings out that the order of the Appellate Authority in the case was practically a single line order stating that the ‘grounds of appeal are unsatisfactory and punishment stands’.  Further, the Tribunal pointed out that the orders of the Disciplinary Authority were also issued on a printed form where not only a few lines were left for the Disciplinary Authority to record the reasons for its orders, but it was also printed on this form that – “I do not find your representation to be satisfactory due to the following reasons ……. I, therefore, hold you guilty of the charges”.  This printed form was considered highly objectionable by the Tribunal as it pre-empts that all explanations submitted by the charged official shall be found to be unsatisfactory irrespective of what the charged official states in his defence.  The Tribunal also observed that the referred case is not an isolated one and there is a general trend on the railways not to pass detailed speaking orders while imposing punishments or while disposing of appeals/revision against the punishments. 

It is advised that while exercising disciplinary powers, the Disciplinary and Appellate Authorities etc perform quasi-judicial functions.  The need for passing “reasoned and speaking orders” by them thus hardly needs to be emphasized.  Attention in this connection is also invited to Board’s letters No. E(D&A)78 RG 6-11 dated 3.3.1978, No. E(D&A)86 RG 6-1 dated 20.1.1986, No. E(D&A)86 RG 6-4 dated 5.8.1988 and No. E(D&A)91 RG 6-122 dated 21.2.92 in which the need for Disciplinary/Appellate Authorities to issue self-contained “speaking” and “reasoned” orders was impressed upon.  Instructions contained in these letters should be widely circulated on your railway and their compliance ensured in future cases.  Railways should also forthwith discontinue the practice, if any, on their system of passing disciplinary orders in printed forms as these printed forms militate against the very concept of passing of “reasoned and speaking orders” in disciplinary cases. 

 E(D&A)2002/RG6-27 
dt. 24.9.2002
BY ESTT. (LABOUR LEGISLATION) SECTION

TOP
RBE No. Gist of Instructions  Letter No. & Date
112/2002 Employment in loading and unloading in Railway’s Goods Sheds, Docks and Ports under the Minimum Wages Act, 1948. 

Forwarded a copy of the Notification No. S-32019/9/97-WC(MW) dt. 1.5.2002 issued by the Ministry of Labour rectifying their notifications on the above cited subject.

 E(LL)98/AT/MW/2
dt. 17.7.2002
142/2002

Rates of variable dearness allowance for employees employed in loading and unloading in Railway’s Goodsheds and in Ash-pit cleaning in Railways. 

Forwarded a copy of Order No. 1(4)/2002-LS-II dated 10.6.2002 received from Ministry of Labour revising the rates of variable dearness allowance and the minimum wages w.e.f.1.4.2002 for employees employed in loading and unloading in Railway’s Goodsheds and in Ashpit Cleaning in Railways.

 E(LL)2002/AT/MW/1 
dt. 28-8-2002
 BY ESTT. (RAILWAY RECRUITMENT BOARD(S)) SECTION TOP
RBE No. Gist of Instructions Letter No. & Date
133/2002 Review of examination fee for RRB examinations. 

In partial modification of para 1(iii) of Board’s letter dated 7.4.99 referred above, no examination fee will be charged from the candidates belonging to SC/ST/Ex-Servicemen categories.  They will however be required to send one unstamped self-addressed envelope and one stamped self-addressed envelope to RRB at the time of making application. 

As for candidates belonging to other communities, examination fee as laid down vide Board’s letter No. 98/E(RRB)/25/52 dated 7.4.99 will continue to be charged.

 E(RRB)/2002/25/32
dt. 8.8.2002
151/2002

Recruitment to Group ‘D’ posts. 

Ministry of Railways have decided the following norms for Physical Efficiency Test (PET) for recruitment to Group ‘D’ posts: 

Male Candidates : 

1.  Should be able to lift and carry 35 kg. of weight for a distance of 100 metre in 2 minutes in one chance without putting the weight down and

2.   Should be able to run for a distance of 1500 metre in 7 minutes in one chance. 

Female Candidates : 

1.  Should be able to lift and carry 20 kg. of weight for a distance of 100 metre in 2 minutes in one chance without putting the weight down and

2.   Should be able to run for a distance of 400 metre in 4 minutes in one chance. 

Detailed guidelines for recruitment to Group ‘D’ posts on Railways/Production Units through RRBs have already been circulated vide Annexure II of Board’s instructions dated 27.11.2001.

 99/E(RRB)/25/11
 dt. 4.9.2002

BY ESTT. (SPORTS) SECTION

TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

 Letter No. & Date
94/2002 Inclusion of new Sports Disciplines in Railway Sports Calendar – Recruitment against sports quota. 

Reiteration of instructions already issued vide Railway Sports Promotion Board’s letter No RSCB/96/New Disciplines dated 4.8.1997 and RSPB/2000/New Disciplines dt. 13.4.2000 and 1.11.2000 in respect of inclusion of new Sports Disciplines (Judo, Karate, Kho-Kho and Archery).

 E(SPORTS)97/RSQ/
POLICY/1 
dt. 3-7-2002
INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED FROM PAY COMMISSION DIRECTORATE
 BY PAY COMMISSION SECTIONS 		 TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions

 Letter No. & Date 
153/2002

Revision of designation. 

Consequent upon the implementation of the recommendations of V CPC, a new scale of Rs. 7450-11500/- was introduced for Ministerial staff in all departments (other than Accounts) and designated as Chief Office Superintendent vide Annexure to Board’s letter No. PC-V/98/I/11/18 (A) dated 10-5-98.  It has been brought to the notice of Board that the abbreviation OCS being used for Chief Office Superintendent is creating confusion for the similar abbreviation COS being used for the Controller of Stores in Stores department. 

The matter was considered and it has been decided that wherever the abbreviation of Chief Office Superintendent is to be used, it should be used as ‘Ch.O.S.’ to avoid any confusion in the matter.

 PC-III/2002/Stand./2
dt/ 9-9-2002
107/2002 Change of residential address by Railway pensioners/family pensioners – option for Medical Allowance. 

As per para 4 of Board’s letter referred to above existing pensioners as well as future retirees shall have to exercise one time option in the prescribed form to avail of medical facilities at OPD of Railway hospitals or to claim fixed medical allowance of Rs. 100/- per month. 

2.   References are being received from zonal Railways/PUs that a large number of applications are being received with request to record change of residential address and option for availing medical allowance. 

3.  Matter has been considered in the Board’s office.  Frequent changes in residential address by a pensioner would cause hardships to the pensioners as well as to the Pension Disbursing Authorities.  It is, therefore, decided that only one change in option in the lifetime of a pensioner shall be allowed, which should be supported by proper proof of change in residential address. 

4.   The pensioners may apply for the change of option with proof of change in residential address to the Pension Disbursing Authorities who will forward the application to the concerned Railway Administration for processing the application for approval and advice to the Pension disbursing Authorites.

 PC-V/98/1/7/1/1
 dt. 15.7.2002
143/2002

Amendment to the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 1997. 

Gazette Notification with G.S.R. NO. 589(E) dated 21.8.2002 (RBE No. 143/2002, S.No. PC-V/350) regarding amendment to the Railway Services (Revised Pay) Rules, 1997 issued.

 PC-/97/I/RSRP/1
dt. 3.10.2002
149/2002

Incentive for promoting Small Family Norms among Railway employees – recommendations of the Vth Central Pay Commission. 

It is clarified that the benefit of Family Planning Allowance shall be admissible to Railway employees if twins are born after first surviving child and the number of surviving children crosses the ceiling of two children in second / subsequent delivery(ies).

 PC-V/99/I/7/6/2
dt. 2-9-2002
161/2002

Pay scale for employees of canteens (statutory and recognized non-statutory) in the Railways and Production Units etc. 

It has been decided to revise the existing designations of certain categories of canteen staff indicated in the annexure to Board’s letter of even number dated 10.5.98, as in the table given below:- 

Group II

S.No. Existing Designation Pay Scale (Rs.) Revised Designation
1. Assistant Halwai Gr.II 2650-4000 Assistant Halwai
2. Assistant Halwai Gr.I 3050-4590 Halwai Gr.II
3. Halwai Gr.II 3200-4900 Halwai Gr.I

Group III 

S.No. Existing Designation Pay Scale (Rs.) Revised Designation
1. Jr. Clerk 3050-4590 Clerk
1. Assistant Manager Gr.II 3050-4590 Assistant Canteen Manager
2. Assistant Manager Gr.I 3050-4590 Assistant Canteen Manager
3. Manager Gr.III

3200-4900

 Canteen Manager Gr.II
4. Manager Gr.II 4000-6000 Canteen Manager Gr.I
4. Manager Gr.I 4000-6000 Canteen Manager Gr.I
4. Sr. Manager 5000-8000 Sr. Canteen Manager
5. Head Manager 5500-9000 Head Canteen Manager

Accordingly, Group II and Group III of Annexure to Board’s letter of even number dated 10.5.98 sand modified. 

Other terms and conditions contained in Board’s letter of even number dated 10.5.98 remain unaltered.

 PC-V/97/I/11/18(B)
dt. 13.9.2002
BY ESTT. (PAY AND ALLOWANCES) SECTION

TOP
RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

 Letter No. & Date
98/2002 Revision of pay scales (Senior and Selection Scales) for Primary School Teachers in Railway Schools. 

The matter regarding anomaly in the pay scales of Primary school teachers has been under consideration of the Government.  In continuation of Board’s above cited letter it has now been decided that the Senior and Selection Grade scales of Primary School Teachers in the Railway Schools be revised as under w.e.f.1.1.1996. 

 

Existing

 Revised
Basic Grade Rs.4500-7000 Rs.4500-7000(no change)
Senior Grade R.5000-8000 Rs.5500-9000
Selection Grade Rs.5500-9000 Rs.6500-10500

These scales of pay are also applicable to Junior School teachers of Oak Grove School, Jharapani under Northern Railway.

 E(P&A)I-2002/PS-5/PE-3 DT.5.7.2002
101/2002 Grant of incentive to Accounts Stock Verifiers on passing Appendix IV-A (IREM) Examination. 

 Certain clarificatory instructions in respect of doubts raised regarding grant of incentive in the form of Special Allowance @ Rs.240/- p.m w.e.f. 1-6-1996 in lieu of 3 advance increments to Stock Verifiers on passing Appendix IV-A (IREM) examination in the V CPC revised scales of pay were issued.

 E(P&A)I-2000/SP-1/AC-1
 dt. 10.7.2002
103/2002 Grant of Special Pay to Doctors performing Anaesthesia work. 

Sanction of the President is hereby accorded to continuance of grant of Special Allowance @ Rs. 200/- p.m. to the Doctors who are entrusted with the performance of Anaesthesia work, in addition to their normal duties, last extended upto 1.8.2000 vide this Ministry’s letter No. E(P&A)I-2000/SP-1/MH-2 dt. 2-6-2000, being further extended for a period of three years w.e.f. 1-8-2000 to 31-7-2003 or till a specialists cadre for the Anaesthesia work is formed, whichever is earlier. 

Attention is also invited in this context to Board’s letters No. E(P&A)I-75/PS-5/MH-1 dated 27-3-1976 and No. E(P&A)184/PS-5/MH-1 dt. 21-12-1987.  It may be ensured that only those General Duty doctors, who are not having Post Graduate Qualifications in Anaesthesia but are called upon to do Anaesthesia work in addition to their normal duties after being trained in administering Anaesthesia are granted the Special Allowance @ Rs. 200/- p.m.  In other words, those doctors who are in receipt of P.G. Allowance  for possessing P.G. degree/diploma in Anaesthesia are not to be given this Special Allowance of Rs. 200/-. 

Other terms & conditions shall remain unchanged. 

 E(P&A)I-2002/SP-1/MH-1 
dt. 11-7-2002
134/2002 Grant of Hospital Leave to the kidnapped railway employees during their hospitalization/medical treatment. 

Decided that competent authority may consider grant of leave in such cases under the provisions contained in Rule 552 & 553 – R.I of Indian Railway Establishment Code, Vol.I, 1985 Edition (1995 Reprint Edition)

 E(P&A)I-2001/CPC/LE-6
 dt. 9.8.2002
145/2002 Recommendations of Fifth Central Pay Commission relating to grant of commuted leave/leave on Medical Certificate to Railway servants. 

The V CPC’ recommendations made vide para 117.14 of their report relating to grant of Commuted Leave/Leave to all categories of Government servants on production of a medical Certificate has been considered by the Government and it has now been decided by the Board that the following procedure may be followed for sanction of Commuted Leave/Leave to Railway servants on the basis of Medical Certificate:- 

(i)   A Railway servant (Gazetted or Non-gazetted) on being a Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)/Railway Health Services(RHS) beneficiary and living in an area covered by the CGHS/RHS at the time of illness, shall be required to produce a Medical / Fitness Certificate in the Form prescribed in Annexure XI of Rule 538 and 541 of Indian Railway Medical Manual, Volume I, Third Edition 2000, either from an authorized CGHS Medical Officer or a Railway/Government Authorized Medical Officer. 

      In circumstances where the Railway Doctor’s line visits do not materialize, the Railway employees who are covered by the line jurisdiction of the Railway doctor and who have fallen ill, may obtain a Medical Certificate from a Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) subject to the condition that if the leave applied for on medical grounds is for more than 3 days, the employee should report to the Railway doctor if he is fit to travel or send intimation about his condition if he is bed-ridden, at such intervals as directed by the Railway doctor. 

(ii)   Railway servants (Gazetted or Non-gazetted), who are not CGHS/RHS beneficiaries, (including those who have opted out of the CGHS/RHS or are CGHS or RHS Card Holders, but at the time of illness are residing outside the jurisdiction of the CGHS/RHS facilities or take ill while being outside the Headquarters) are required to produce a certificate from his Authorized Medical Attendant provided that in the case of a Non-gazetted Railway employee, if no AMA is available within a radius of 8 kilometers of his residence or place of temporary stay outside the Headquarters, the leave sanctioning authority may, at its discretion, sanction Leave/commuted Leave on production of Medical Certificate of sickness from the Registered Medical Practitioner, after satisfying itself of the facts/merits of the case. 

(iii)     In case of hospitalization/indoor treatment permitted in a private hospital recognized under the CGHS/Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944 and Railway Medical Attendance Rules as contained in Indian Railway Medical Manual, Third Edition, 2000 (Corrected upto 30.9.99), a Railway servant (Gazetted or Non-gazetted), whether a CGHS/RHS beneficiary or not, may produce the requisite Medical/Fitness Certificate from the Authorized Medical Officer of such a hospital in case his hospitalization/indoor treatment, is on account of the particular kind of disease (e.g. heart, cancer etc.) for the treatment of which the concerned hospital has been recognized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.  There may be instances where an employee may be initially admitted to such a hospital at a stage when the disease has yet not been fully diagonosed and it may subsequently be established that the disease was not that, the suspicion of which prompted his/her admission to the hospital.  In such cases, the leave sanctioning authority, with the approval of the General Manager, may grant Leave/Commuted Leave on the basis of the certificate of sickness from the Authorized Medical officer of such a hospital, if he is satisfied about the genuineness of the case. 

(iv)    In cases where a Non-gazetted Railway servant finds it difficult to obtain the Medical Certificate from the CGHS/RHS doctor or AMA in exceptional cases, the leave sanctioning authority, may consider grant of leave on the basis of the Medical/Fitness Certificate from an RMP after taking into account the circumstances of the specific case.  Such a certificate should be, as nearly as possible, in the prescribed form as given in Annexure XI of Rule 538 and 541 of Indian Railway Medical Manual, Volume I, Third Edition 2000, and should state the nature of illness and the period for which the Railway servant is likely to be unable to perform his duties.  The competent authority may, at its discretion accept the certificate, or in cases where it has reasons to suspect the bonafides, refer the case to the Divisional Medical Officer for advice or investigation.  The Medical Certificate from Registered Medical Practitioner Produced by the Railway servant in support of his/her application for leave may be rejected by the competent authority only after a Railway Medical Officer has conducted the necessary verifications and on the basis of the advice tendered by him after such verifications. 

2.    Certificate of fitness, in the case of employees working in the Zonal Railways and Field Units will continue to be governed by the provisions contained in Rule 538 and 541 of Indian Railway Medical Manual, Volume I, Third Edition 2000. 

In exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution, the President is pleased to direct that Rule 521 of the Indian Railway Establishment Code, Volume-I, 1985 Edition (Repritn Edition – 1995) may be substituted by the amended provisions as contained in the advance correction slip No. 85. 

 E(P&A)I-97/CPC/LE-7
 dt. 29.8.2002
152/2002 Amendment to the Indian Railway Establishment Manual Volume I, 1989 Edition. 
The Ministry of Railway is pleased to direct that Para 178 (4) of the Indian Railway Establishment Manual, Volume I (Revised Edition –1989) may be amended as per the enclosed Advance correction Slip No. 139. 		 E(P&A)I-2001/PS-5/PE-1 dt.4.9.2002
176/2002

Grant of Hospital leave to the kidnapped railway employees during their hospitalization / medical treatment. 

It is clarified that the leave to be granted by the Competent Authority under the provisions contained in Rules 552 & 553 – R.I of Indian Railway Establishment Code, Vol.I 1985 Edition (1995 Reprint Edition) is for treatment of the kidnapped Railway employee subject to physical/mental stress and not for the duration he remained captive.

 E(P&A)I-2001/CPC/LE-6 
dt. 30-9-2002
99/2002 Payment of Breach of Rest Allowance to Running Staff – PNM/NFIR Item No. 15/2001. 

It is advised that the instructions contained in Board’s letter No. E(S)I-59/RS/30 dt.26.11.60 are no longer in force.  Vide Board’s letters No. E(P&A)II-72/RS-16 dt.15.11.72 and 21.2.73, it was stipulated that Breach of Rest Allowance would be payable to Running staff, if they are called upon to perform running duty before completion of 16 hours rest at headquarters provided it is immediately preceded by a full term of 8 hours or more of duty. 

It is further brought to your notice that in terms of the extant provisions contained in Rule 1511-R.II/1987 Edition, Breach of Rest Allowance is payable to the Running staff (other than those manning suburban services or on shunting duty) who work a train to an outstation and return to their headquarters and are detailed for running duty before completion of 16/12 hours rest at headquarters when the total period of duty immediately before the rest was for 8 hours or more/less than 8 hours, as the case may be.  Thus, Breach of Rest Allowance now has no nexus with running duty. 

 E(P&A)II-2001/FE-2/1 
dt. 9-7-2002
127/2002 Grant of another opportunity for revision of option by the Accounts staff due to inclusion of special allowance in pay or fixation of pay on promotion to next higher grade. 

The matter has been examined in consultation with Department of Personnel & Training and it has been decided that another opportunity to exercise option may be allowed to the Accounts staff mentioned in the above para, and who were promoted on/after 1-8-1997 to the next higher grade.  The option will have to be exercised by the employees within three months from the date of issue of these instructions and once exercised, shall be final.

 E(P&A)II-2002/PP-3
dt. 1-8-2002
166/2002

Computation of Productivity Linked Bonus – Procedure thereof. 

Please refer to the clarification contained in this office letter of even number dated 13-2-2002 regarding the manner of computation of wages for the purpose of payment of Productivity Linked Bonus. 

In view of the doubts raised by some of the zonal Railways, the issue has been examined de-novo.  In supersession of the instructions contained in the letter dated 13-2-2002 ibid, it has been decided that the following methodology will be followed for computing PLB in cases where staff are on leave on half average pay, extraordinary leave etc for part of the year:-

a)  The per day maximum wage to be reckoned during a particular month is to be arrived at by dividing the computation ceiling by the total number of days in the month.  For instance, the maximum reckonable per day wage (in normal cases) in the month of January would be Rs. 2500/31 days which comes to Rs. 80.65 and the reckonable per day wage in respect of employees on leave on half average for the corresponding period would accordingly be Rs. 40.33.  In the month, where the per day maximum reckonable wages are Rs. 80.65, an employee who had worked only for 15 days (the remaining period being extraordinary leave), the wages for that month would be Rs. 1210 (Rs.80.65 multiply 15). 

b)  The total wages arrived at by adding the per day wage for the month are then to be rounded off to the nearest rupee. 

c) Similar calculation is to be done for the other months also. 

d)  The wages so arrived at for the 12 months are then to be added together and thereafter divided by the number of days in the year which gives the per day wages is to be reckoned upto two decimal places. 

e)  This figure is then to be multiplied by the number of Productivity Linked Bonus days declared for the financial year, rounded off to the nearest rupee, which gives the amount of Productivity Linked Bonus payable. 

It has also been decided by the Board that the methodology outlined above will apply only to cases to be decided after issue of these orders and that past cases where calculation of Productivity Linked Bonus had been made in term of the illustrations contained in letter No.E(P&A)II-79/PLB-1 dt. 1-7-1980 need not be reopened.

 E(P&A)II-2001/PLB-14
 dt. 20.9.2002
172/2002

Co-drivers for Rajdhani Expresses and ‘High Speed Trains’ – PNM/AIRF Item No. 23/2001. 

The issue regarding provision of Co-drivers for Rajdhani Expresses and trains classified as ‘High Speed trains’ by the Board on the basis of norms contained in para 3.22(iv) of letter No. E(P&A)II-80/RS-10 dated 17-7-1981 has been under consideration of the Board. 

In modification of the instructions contained in Board’s letters dated 1-1-1987 & 24-8-2000 ibid, it has now been decided that the level of co-driver in Rajdhani train will be in the same grade as that of the main driver (Mail Driver in grade Rs. 6000-9800) while the co-driver of the ‘High Speed’ trains will be Sr. Passenger Driver/Passenger Driver in grade Rs. 6000-9800/Rs.5500-9000 in respect of those sections where the following conditions are fulfilled:- 

a)      The maximum permissible speed should not be less than 110 kms/per hour in the case of broad gauge and 100 kms/per hour in the case of metre gauge.

b)      The aforesaid limits of maximum permissible speed should obtain over at least 50% of the run of the train for the respective sections; section for this purpose would be determined on the basis of crew chaning points, from ‘signing on’ of the crew to the ‘signing off’ point.

c)      The average speed should not be less than 66 kms/per hour on broad gauge sections and 60 kms/per hour on metre gauge sections; and

d)      The minimum distance between terminals of the train should be 400 kms on broad gauge and 300 kms on metre gauge sections. 

For sections where the Rajdhani Expresses and trains classified as ‘High Speed trains’ do not fulfill the above conditions the co-driver will be only a Diesel/Electric Assistant. 

 E(P&A)II-2000/RS-21
dt. 26.9.2002
174/2002

Payment of Productivity Linked Bonus to non-gazetted Group ‘B’, ‘C’ & ‘D’ Railway employees for the financial year 2001-2002. 

Orders for Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) to all non-gazetted Group ‘B’, ‘C’ & ‘D’ Railway employees (excluding all RPF/RPSF personnel) without any ceiling on wages for eligibility, equivalent to 59 (fifty nine) wages for their performance during the financial year 2001-2002 issued. 

 E(P&A)II-2002/PLB-4 
dt. 27.9.2002

INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED FROM FINANCE DIRECTORATE 
BY FINANCE (ESTT.) SECTIONS  

 TOP
RBE No. Gist of Instructions  Letter No. & Date
137/2002

Payment of daily allowance in the cities downgraded for the purpose of CCA – Clarification regarding. 

Some of the zonal Railway have sought clarification for the payment of daily allowance in respect of such cities which have been downgraded on the population basis for the purpose of CCA consequent upon implementation of V CPC’s recommendations. 

The matter has been considered by Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance and it is clarified that in respect of cities which have been downgraded on the basis of population, daily allowance would be paid at the rates applicable to their revised classification notwithstanding the fact that payment of CCA in such places has been allowed to be made on the basis of the old classification. 

 F(E)I/2002/AL-8/2
dt. 20.8.2002
158/2002

Grant of Washing Allowance to Canteen employees. 

Consequent upon the Judgement of the Principal Bench of Hon’ble CAT, New Delhi, the provision relating to the pattern and scale of uniform/livery items have been reviewed by DOP&T. 

Board have also decided that instructions issued by DOP&T regarding supply of Uniform/Livery items may mutatis-mutandis be adopted on the Railways and accordingly instructions have been issued vide Board’s letter No. E(W)2002 UN1-2 dated 31.7.2002 in this regard. 

Pursuant to the above instructions it has been decided by the Board that following categories of Gr. ‘D’ staff in the statutory/non-statutory railway canteens, who are provided with free uniforms, as a functional requirement, should be granted Washing Allowance @ Rs. 30/- p.m., subject to fulfillment of existing terms & conditions:-

(i)   Bearers

(ii)  Halwais, Asstt. Halwais, Cooks & Tea / Coffee Makers

(iii) Dish Cleaners

(iv) Sweepers 

These orders take effect from the date of issue.

 F(E)I/2002/AL-29/1
dt. 18.9.2002
97/2002

Deletion of ACS 19 from para 604 of IREM Vol.I(1989). 

In exercise of powers conferred by proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution, the President is pleased to direct that sub-para(iii) inserted below sub-para (a)(ii) under para 604 of the Indian Railway Establishment Manual, Vol.I (1989Edition), by ACS 19 issued vide letter No. F(E)II/91/Misc./2 dated 24.2.1995 be deleted, as per the Advance Correction Slip No. 133. 

Pay fixation in cases of request transfer would continue to be regulated under the provisions of FR 22(I) adopted over the Railways in terms of ACS – 14 as Rule 1313, of IREC Volume II circulated vide Board’s letter No. F(E)II/89/FR/1/1 dated 12.12.91. 

 F(E)II-91/Misc./2
dt. 18.7.2002
148/2002

Implementation of Government’s decision on the recommendations of the 5th Central Pay Commission – Revision of pension of pre and post –1986 pensioners/family pensioners etc. – Extension of date of submission of application for revision of pension/family pension. 

Forwarded a copy of DOP&PW’s  O.M. No. 45/86/97-P&PW(A) Part III dt. 2.4.2002 extending the date of submission of application further upto 31st December, 2002.  These instructions will apply mutatis mutandis on the Railways also. 

 F(E)III/2002/PN1/29
dt. 3.9.2002
171/2002

Permanent transfer of Railway servants to Government Companies/Corporations – Grant of retirement benefits to permanent Railway servants on absorption prior to 21.9.67. 

In terms of para 4 of the Board’s letter of even no. dated 7.4.95, which was based on DOP&PW’s Office Memorandum No.4 (6)/85-P&PW(D) dated the 3rd Jan.1995, CPF benefits received in terms of Ministry of Railways letter dated 15.6.61 were to be refunded by the said employee to the Railway/Government together with interest at the rate applicable to SRPF accumulations on the date of such refund and calculated in the same manner as interest on SRPF is worked out. 

The above provision had been subject of litigation in various Courts.  The CAT, Principal Bench, in its judgement in one such case, quashed and set aside the above provision regarding the manner and rate of interest at which the amount is refundable.  The CAT ordered further that simple interest @ 6% or rate applicable to GPF/SRPF accumulation during that particular year, whichever is less for that year on the refundable amount from the date of payment under letter dt. 15.6.61 till the date when the refund is made, should be charged from the concerned employee.  High Court of Delhi upheld the said judgement.  In the appeal filed in the Madras High Court against a similar judgement of CAT, Madras, the High Court inter-alia observed that it is only equitable that if the Govt. is to have interest on the Provident Fund amount, which the employees had received at the time they left the Govt. service, the Govt. also should pay interest on the pension which, according to it’s own policy it was required to pay to those employees for the period of delay in disbursing that pension. 

The modalities of implementing the above stated judgement of the High Court of Delhi were under active consideration of the Government in the DOP&PW in consultation with Ministry of Finance.  The President is now pleased to decide that SRPF benefits received in terms of Ministry of Railways letter dt. 15.6.61 will have to be refunded by the said employee to the Railway with interest @ 6% or rate applicable for SRPF accumulations during that particular year, whichever is less.  Interest on arrears becoming due to an absorbee shall be payable either from 1.4.95 or 3 months from the date of submission of claim of the absorbee, whichever is later.  The rate of interest would be 6% or the rate of interest applicable to SRPF accumulations during the particular year, whichever is less. 

The pension sanctioning authority, where the absorbed employee was emp0loyed prior to absorption, will have to work out the interest on the SRPF accumulation to be refunded by the concerned employee received by him in terms of Ministry of Railways’ letter dated 15.6.61 in accordance with the above provisions.  Wherever higher rate of interest has been charged on SRPF accumulation from the concerned absorbee, the excess amount charged from him shall be refunded to the concerned employee.

 F(E)III/95/PN1/1
dt. 26.9.2002
138/2002

Sanction of loans and Advances – timely and regular recoveries of the same. 

In this connection attention is drawn to various provisions stipulated in the extant rules for timely and regular recovery of advances, some of which are highlighted below:- 

i)     In case of railway employee who has been sanctioned an advance for purchase of a conveyance, does not complete the purchase and pay for the conveyance within one month of the drawal of advance, he shall refund forthwith the full amount of advance drawn together with interest thereon for one month.  However, a competent authority, in exceptional cases, may extend the period of one month prescribed in this rule up to two months. (Ref. Sub Para (5) of Para (1108 of IREM). 

ii)    When the advance is retained beyond one month without purchase of the vehicle, penal interest will be chargeable.  Also failure to produce the registration book of the vehicle within one month of purchase of within two months of drawal of advance will render to Railway servant liable for levy of penal interest. (Ref.1108(5) note (ii) of IREM). 

iii)  It is mandatory that the sanction for all types of advances must stipulate the chargeable rate of interest at 2-1/2% above the prescribed rate of interest, clearly indicating that in case all terms and conditions attached to the sanction, including those relating to the recovery of amount, are fulfilled completely to the satisfaction of the competent authority, rebate of interest to the extent of 2-1/2% will be allowed. (Ref.Bd’s Letter No. F(E)Spl.80.ADV2/5 dt. 5.1.1981) 

iv)   In the case of an advance for purchase of motorcar the Railway servant, before he draws the advance, is required to execute an agreement in the form prescribed separately for initial purchase of conveyance and already purchased conveyance as the case may be, hypothecating the conveyance (motor car) to the President as security for the advance.  Failure to execute the mortgage bond in time will render the railway servant to refund forthwith the whole of the amount of advance with interest accrued thereon. (Ref. Sub Para(7) of Para (1108) of IREM) 

v)    It is the responsibility of the sanctioning authority to scrutinize the cash receipts to ensure that the advance has been utilised for the purchase of the conveyance within the prescribed period and that the actual price is not less than the amount of advance. (Ref. Sub Para (8) of Para (1108) of IREM). 

vi)     The sanctioning authority, while scrutinizing the cash receipts, must also ensure that the advance has been utilised for the purchase of the conveyance within the prescribed period, the actual price is not less than the advance and thereafter he should certify the position to the Accounts Officer concerned. (Ref. Sub Para (9) of Para (1108) of IREM). 

vii)     Recovery should commence with the first drawal of pay after the advance is drawn.  The authority sanctioning the advance may permit recovery to be made in lesser number of instalments if the railway servant so desires.  The amount of interest will be recovered in one or more instalments, with a proviso that such instalment being not appreciably greater than the instalments by which the principal was recovered.  The recovery of interest will commence from the month following that in which the whole of principal has been repaid. (Ref. Sub Para (10) of Para (1108) of IREM). 

viii)   Attention is also drawn to note 6(b) and (c) of sub-para 1132(17) of IREM Vol.I (Revised Edition –1989) regarding recovery of HBA.  It provides that recovery of advance shall be effected from the monthly pay or the leave salary/subsistence allowance bills of the railway servant concerned by the Head of the Office or the Accounts Officer concerned.  The recoveries will not be held up or postponed except with the prior concurrence of the Railway Board. Even in the event of subsistence allowance payable being reduced on prolonged suspension the recoveries may be suitably reduced by the Head of the Department, if considered necessary, after obtaining the concurrence of the Railway Board.  It is also provided that if a railway servant ceases to be in service for any reason other than normal retirement/super-annuation, or if he/she dies before the repayment of the advance in full, the entire outstanding amount of the advance shall become payable to the Government forthwith. 

Detailed instructions exist for timely and regular recovery of various advances as mentioned above.  Despite these, lapses in recovery have still occurred.  It is only because there is no proper system to monitor whether the recoveries are being made regularly and in time and also due to lack of proper coordination among concerned Branches. 

In view of the above, Board desires that all administrative Branches concerned with grant of various advances shall maintain a register to monitor submission of requisite documents by loanee within prescribed time period, regular and timely recoveries of various advances sanctioned to railway employees by obtaining monthly statements from the respective salary bill units of the employees and making actual recoveries.  This register should be submitted for personal inspection of the concerned branch officer monthely and Head of the Department who will append his signature in certification of having inspected the recoveries being made regularly and timely.  This item will also be reflected in Monthly Progress Report of the office submitted to Head of the Office.  Board also desire that an Annual Report is submitted by each Railway to Railway Board’s office in the month of January declaring that amounts recoverable against various advances during the preceding year have been fully recovered, and Board’s concurrence has been obtained for recoveries held-up or postponed, if any.  A report for the current calendar year (2002) may please be furnished by end of January, 2003. 

Failure to observe Board’s instructions given above would be viewed as serious dereliction of duties on the part of concerned officials.

 F(E)Spl.2002/ADV.2/1 dt. 19.8.2002

INSTRUCTIONS ISSUED FROM MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIRECTORATE 
BY ESTT.(MAN POWER PLANNING) SECTION 

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RBE No.

Gist of Instructions 

 Letter No. & Date
119/2002

Apprentices Act, 1961 – Training in Railway Establishments. 

Master Circular No. 8/2002 on the above subject issued. 

 E(MPP)2001/7/7 
dt. 22.7.2002
129/2002

Redeployment of surplus staff. 

Directions issued to General Managers to review the position personally with PHODs fortnightly for taking positive action in this direction.

 E(MPP)99/1/75
dt. 8.8.2002
144/2002

Introducing yoga training in Railway Training Centres. 

Board has decided to enhance the honorarium from Rs. 250/- p.m. upto Rs. 1000/- p.m. to instructors, locally engaged, to impart yoga training in the training centers catering to safety categories.  All other terms and condition remain unchanged.  The enhanced rate of honorarium will be effective from 1-9-2002.

 E(MPP)2000/19/1Pt. (Meditation)
 dt. 23.8.2000
165/2002

List of training centers on Indian Railways. 

In continuation of Board’s letter No. E(MPP)2001/3/19 dt. 19.3.2002, Ministry of Railways have decided to include “BTC Bhopal” renamed as “Technical Training Centre, Bhopal” under “Main Training Centre” after S.No. 51 of the Annexure-I of Board’s letter quoted above. 

The Ministry of Railways have decided to modify the “Manual on Management of Training”, (Edition, 1988) as per the Correction Slip No. 3/2002.

 E(MPP)2001/3/9
dt. 19.9.2002