Tele : 011-24102305 Fax : 011-26881019 Email : desa@navy.gov.in Veteran Sailors’ Forum Directorate of Ex-Servicemen Affairs Integrated Headquarters,MoD (Navy) 4th Floor, Chanakya Bhawan Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021 DX/VSF/46/AGM/Kochi/19 28 Oct 19

MINUTES OF 11th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF VETERAN SAILORS’ FORUM HELD AT KOCHI ON 13 OCT 19

1. The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Veteran Sailors’ Forum (VSF) was held from 1030h to 1300h on 13 Oct 19 at Sagarika Auditorium at Naval Base Kochi. The AGM was chaired by Vice Admiral B Dasgupta, AVSM, YSM, VSM, Controller Personnel Services in his capacity as the President VSF.

2. The meeting was attended by 256 VSF members. The following officials were present:-

Ser Name Desig

(a) Governing Council Members.

(i) RAdm Deepak Kapoor President, VSF Vizag Charter

(ii) RAdm LS Surairaj, NM President, VSF Mumbai Charter

(iii) Cmde Pankaj Sharma Vice President, VSF

(iv) Cmde Gokul Krishna Dutta President, VSF Kochi Charter

(v) Cmde Sanjay Nirmal Cmde (ECHS- Navy)

(vi) Captain Amarjeet Saluja Secretary , VSF

(vii) Capt Neeraj Malhotra Capt (Pay & Allowances)

(viii) Capt Vikram Arab LOIC NAVPEN

(ix) Capt DS Rana MS, INCCB

(x) Capt Sanjay Kumar Secretary, INBA

(xi) Cdr V Viswanath Secretary, NWWA

(xii) Lt Cdr Jithin Janardan Rep, JAG

(b) Charter Representatives.

(i) Capt Sanjay Kumar Secretary, VSF Mumbai Charter

(ii) Capt S Sreekanth Secretary, VSF Vizag Charter

(iii) Capt PVGK Nambiar Secretary, VSF Kochi Charter

(iv) Cdr Harish Saxena Secretary, VSF Kolkata Charter

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Ser Name Desig

(v) Capt Raja R Patil Secretary, VSF Karwar Charter

(vi) Cdr SK Sajan Secretary, VSF Dehradun Charter

(vii) Lt Cdr Yogita Rani Secretary, VSF Ezhimala Charter

(viii) Lt Cdr Parichay Kalra Secretary, VSF Odissa Charter

(ix) Lt Cdr AS Somvanshi Secretary, VSF Chennai Charter

(x) Slt Prajeesh SM Secretary, VSF Goa Charter

(xi) Arun Chandran R, MCERA II Sailor in-charge, VSF Porbandar Charter

(xii) Mukesh Verma, PO Sailor in-charge, VSF Jabalpur Charter

(c) ESM Representatives.

(i) Shri KR Babu Ex- PO ESM Rep, NE Charter

(ii) Shri NC Raj, Ex- POWTR ESM Rep, Kochi Charter

(iii) Dr Chandrashekar ex- MCPOM ESM Rep, VizagCharter

(iv) Shri Ashok Kumar, Ex- CHA (SE) ESM Rep, Delhi Charter

3. At the commencement of proceedings the President, VSF felicitated the following Octogenarians:-

Ser Name Ex- Rank DoB

(a) AP Sunny L SIG 06 Nov 1939

(b) CN Viswambharan CHELP 20 Oct 1939

(c) Gopala Krishna Pillai CHELR 19 Jan 1937

4. Vice Presidents Welcome Address. Cmde Pankaj Sharma, Vice President, VSF welcomed all present to the 11th AGM of the VSF. He apprised the gathering of the MoU signed on 05 May 19 between Indian Navy and Qatari Emeri Naval Forces (QENF) for employment of veterans in the Qatari Navy. Interviews for the same were held from 10 Sep to 10 Oct 19 by a team of Qatari officers for employment of 16 Officers and 138 sailors in QENF. The Vice President highlighted the enthusiastic response for the job offers as 1187 applications were received for the interviews and veterans from Oman, Netherlands and UK attended the interviews. He informed the gathering that it was constant endeavour of IHQ MoD(N) to take care of the interests of retired sailors. He also exhorted veteran sailors to monitor the Naval Placement Agency website and DESA website to remain in touch with latest job openings as well as other welfare measures that were promulgated from time to time. President’s Opening Address 5. The President welcomed VSF members and Veernaris to the AGM of the VSF and informed the gathering that officials sitting on the stage were competent to answer all

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individual queries whether it was related to pension, ECHS or any other issue and endeavour would be to address all concerns as far as feasible to the veterans’ satisfaction. 6. The President stated that Organisation for Ex-servicemen was quite elaborate and that the Department of Ex-servicemen Welfare was a full-fledged department of the MoD headed by an officer of rank of Secretary. He also brought out that there was also an organisation of Director General Resettlement which looked after the resettlement issues for all the three Services and a naval representative of the rank of Commodore is appointed there. Further, Kendriya Sainik Board at the Centre, Rajya Sainik Boards in state and Zilla Sainik Boards at every district level were also tasked to take care of ESMs issues. The President informed that despite the elaborate organisation at various levels which is supposed to meet all the requirements of ESM, the three Service Headquarters have Directorate of Veteran Affairs. These directorates act as facilitators to make sure that action is taken by appropriate authorities on whatever issues raised by veterans.

7. The President intimated the gathering that despite being a complex organisation, endeavour of ECHS was to provide best facilities to its members and meet the demands which were well beyond the resources available to them. He opined that issues with regard to supply of medicines that come up regularly was due to financial constraints.

8. The President conveyed to the veterans that all of them and the men in uniform were on the same side. He requested the veterans that problems which could be resolved by telephone call/ email should not be taken up as RTI applications/ litigations which not only requires a lot of effort by the veterans but also of the authorities.

9. The President informed the gathering of the steps taken for rehabilitation of Veer Naris and commissioning of a 34 apartment widows hostel at Vasant Kunj, Delhi. He also highlighted that in the unfortunate event of death of a service personnel, the Veer naris were allowed to stay for two years at the hostel to enable them to rehabilitate/ settle down and this was extendable by another year in case of some extreme emergency. He stated that as on date, about nine to ten veer naris were staying in the hostel. He also stated that there were similar initiatives in pipeline by WNC and ENC for creation of Sahara Hostels in Mumbai and Vizag, respectively.

10. The President urged the Veteran community to engage positively in activities and find time to contribute towards education, widows’ welfare, environment and pollution control, sanitation and building of toilets as well as empowering and motivating the youth.

11. The President also highlighted the issue of veterans seeking enhancement of education quota seats in schools/ colleges and increase in reservation of jobs regularly. He stated that an analysis had been carried out at IHQ MoD (N) on the issue and the following emerged:-

(a) While there is a clamour for more jobs in government sector the vacancies reserved for ESMs were highly undersubscribed (upto 75%). (b) In Delhi University where there is 5% reservation of seats only 50 or 60% of the available seats were subscribed.

(c) ESMs undertaking exams for various government jobs were ill prepared and were unable to meet even the relaxed standards laid down by Do P&T.

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12. The President urged the ESMs for the following:-

(a) Monitor employment news, search government departments websites to ascertain the vacancies that are made available from time to time. (b) Prepare adequately for the exams/ interviews to ensure that they qualify.

13. Finally, the President stated that of the 1,30,000 retired personnel (90,000

pensioners and 40,000 non pensioners) only about 21000 were registered with VSF and

these were mostly ex-sailors who had retired post 2017. He urged the ESMs not registered

with VSF to register so that all could get benefitted by the organisational strength.

Thereafter, he directed the Secretary, VSF to commence the proceedings of the AGM.

Confirmation of Minutes of Last AGM

14. The Secretary, VSF proposed confirmation of the minutes of the 10th AGM held at

Chennai on 26 Oct 18. The minutes were confirmed by the members and subsequently

approved by the President, VSF.

Secretary’s Annual Report for FY 18 - 19

15. The Secretary, VSF then presented the annual report. He informed the gathering of

major activities undertaken by VSF since the last AGM held on 26 Oct 18 at Chennai. The

presentation covered the following aspects:-

(a) Introduction to VSF, aims and objectives of the forum.

(b) Organisational structure and hierarchy.

(c) Details of VSF Charters and membership numbers.

(d) Initiatives by VSF.

(e) Activity report of various charters.

(f) Analysis of Job Vacancies in Government sector and its subscription by

ESMs.

(g) Information on LinkedIN type app “Handshake” being developed to facilitate

interaction of veterans with each other as well as with serving personnel.

Consideration and Adoption of Audited Balance Sheet of VSF Fund for FY 2018 - 19 16. The Secretary, VSF presented the audited balance sheet of VSF Fund for FY 2018 -19 to the General Body.

17. President, VSF Kochi proposed that the General Body could adopt the audited balance sheet. Secretary, VSF Mumbai seconded the proposal. Thereafter, the General Body adopted the audited balance sheet of VSF Fund for FY 2018 -19.

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Appendix 'A' (Para 19 refers)

REVIEW OF ACTION POINTS – 10th AGM

Item II – Benefits of ACP/ MACP Not Given to Ex-Naval Pensioners (10th AGM)

1. Issue. Benefits of ACP/ MACP was not given to Ex-Naval Pensioners who were

discharged from Navy from 01 Jan 2006 to 31 Aug 2008 as per 6th CPC orders but it is now

implemented for defence and the implementation order is issued for Army Pensioners Vide

Gol, MoD letter no. 14(1)/99-D(AG) dated 25 Jul 2018 regarding Modified Assured Carer

Progression Scheme (MACPS) for PBOR of Army but Govt. order is not issued for Naval

Pensioners so far.

2. Previous Decision. DPA to follow up and take case to its logical conclusion.

3. Status. DPA brought out the following:-

(a) In accordance with MoD letter no RP/3312/PAY COM/21/US(MP)D(N-II)/19

dated 26 Apr 19 the revised MACP Scheme for sailors are applicable wef 01 Jan 06

instead of 01 Sep 08.

(b) It has also been informed by Bureau of Sailors, Mumbai that additional

Screening Board for evaluating eligibility of sailors between the period 01 Jan 2006

and 31 Aug 2008 is in progress.

(c) Bureau Order for Increment (BOIC) in respect of eligible sailors shall be

promulgated and forwarded to NPO post finalization of board recommendations.

4. Decision. The President directed that the issue be followed up till promulgation of

BOIC.

Action: DOP/ DPA

Item VI – Demise Grant Stoppage by URCs for Naval Personnel (10th AGM)

5. Issue. URCs have stopped giving demise grant to naval veterans recently.

6. Previous Decision. INCCB to re-examine the issue.

7. Status.

(a) Army. The veterans including Officers, JCOs and ORs irrespective of Service

holding valid Canteen Cards and dependent on Army run CSD canteens are eligible

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of ADLRs. Veterans dependent on Airforce/ Navy run CSD Canteens and willing for

ADLRs are to register with the nearest Army run canteen to avail the scheme. Army

sanctions an amount of Rs. 10000/- to the NOK under ADLRs from the dependent

URC of the deceased veteran. This is in addition to Rs. 7000/- demise grant to NOK

by the Army.

(b) Air Force. Air HQ introduced Dignified Last Rites Scheme for veterans in

2013. In case of death of a veteran Rs 7500/- are paid by nearest AF Station as

funeral expenses when funeral is conducted within the municipal limits of AF Station.

In case outside municipal limits, the NOK is to seek a grant of Rs. 7500/- directly

from IAFBA.

(c) Navy. INBA currently provides a sum of Rs. 30000/- as demise grant to NOK

of the deceased veteran (if a naval pensioner) irrespective of the rank and the

concerned RSU/ RCU deputes suitable reps for wreath laying.

(d) The following issues merit consideration:-

(i) Army operates 3000 URCs as against 83 URCs run by Navy. Hence

Army covers nearly every district of the country.

(ii) Most of the Naval ESMs are dependent on Army URCs and

subscription of ADLRs in not financially viable as it would have to be

reciprocated to Army Personnel.

(iii) As per latest Army guidelines ADLRs is applicable only for Army

personnel.

8. Decision. Considering that the IN provides maximum financial benefit in the event

of demise of a veteran status quo be maintained and grant of financial assistance to

NOK be continued.

Item VI – Grant of Special Pension (9th AGM). 9. Issue. The Hon’ble Supreme Court directed to grant Special Pension to non-pensioners vide judgment on Civil appeal no, 2147 of 2011) dated 27 Oct 16.

10. Previous Decision. DPA to examine the issue in consultation with JAG Navy

11. Status.

(a) The issue was re-examined at IHQMoD(N) by DPA and DNL. Special Pension

@ Rs. 9000/- per month wef 01 Sep 18 is being granted in accordance with MoD

Letter No. 4(10)/2017-D(Pen/Legal) dated 22 Oct 18 pursuant to Hon’ble Supreme

Court order dated 27 Sep 18.

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(b) Three conditions to be met for grant of special pension, in accordance with

Supreme Court directives, are as follows:-

(i) Enrolment in service on or before 03 Jul 1976.

(ii) Retired from Service after Jul 1976.

(iii) Rendered 10 years of Service.

(c) About 1934 ex-sailors meeting the above criteria have been granted special

pension todate.

(d) The working out of the Quantum of special pension @ Rs 9,000/- is being

prepared and submitted by PCDA Allahabad to Hon’ble Supreme Court in next

hearing.

12. Decision. The President stated that since the issue is sub-judice it would not be

appropriate for IN to take up the matter and directed that the issue may be re-visited, if

required, post next court hearing.

Action: DPA

Item IX – Levying of House Tax in Karnataka (9th AGM)

13. Issue. Karnataka Govt. has given 50% exemption in the House Tax to the ESM, the

same should be enhanced to 100%.

14. Previous Decision. Member to send the details to DESA. DESA to take up issue

with KSB.

15. Status.

(a) Every State has different house tax exemption limit for ESM. While Karnataka

Govt provides 50% exemption to ESM from house tax for self-occupied house, many

states like Haryana, HP, and Jharkhand provide 100 % exemption. Sates like

Assam, Bihar, Sikkim do not extend any house tax exemption to ESM.

(b) The issue was taken up with KSB and KSB has indicated that the same is

intra-state matter and needs to be pursued at RSB level.

16. Decision. The matter may be taken up through RSB/ ZSB with State Government

as deemed fit. The President directed that point be closed.

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Item XII – Abolishing Sub-Reservations in ESM Quota (9th AGM)

17. Issue. Quota exists for SC/ST and OBC under the head of ESM for recruitment in

the Govt sector. The sub-quota system under the ESM head pertaining to jobs in the Govt

sector should be abolished as there is no caste specific quota in service.

18. Previous Decision. Issue be taken up by ZSB/ RSB with KSB.

19. Status. KSB has confirmed that as per MoD guidelines issued vide letter no

22(5)/2013/D (Res-II) dated 26 Dec 13 there is no reservation/ sub quota based on caste or

religion for ESM while employed in RSBs/ ZSBs. VSF Karwar has not pursued the case

further.

20. Decision. The President directed that point be closed.

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Appendix 'B' (Para 19 refers)

NEW AGENDA POINTS FOR DISCUSSION – 11th AGM

Agenda 1 – Road in the Name of Gallantry Awardees [Shri Rabindra Kumar Sahoo, ex-POCDI, (121804-B)]

1. Issue. Roads to be named after Gallantry Award winner Shaurya Chakra Ummakant Panigrahi, LS CD II Marine Commando. 2. Discussion. The President informed the gathering that naming of roads/ buildings belonging to IN can be undertaken and has been done earlier. As regards naming of State roads they were under the administration of state authorities and in case the gallantry award winner was popular in the area local MP/ MLA could be approached and convinced about the achievement of the awardee.

3. Decision. Considering that naming of roads was a local/ state issue the matter could be taken up by members with local MP/ MLA. The President directed that point be closed.

Agenda 2 – Provisioning of Hostel for Wards of Widows [Shri AK Shasani, ex-POME,

(118035-N)]

4. Issue. A suitable hostel to be provided for the wards of widows. 5. Discussion. The secretary, VSF informed that the responsibility of widows was that of GoI and for them widows hostel had been created at Delhi and were under consideration at Mumbai and Visakhapatnam. As regards wards there was no provision for separate hostels and the daughter could stay with the widow till marriage and son till attaining the age of 25. The President stated that ESMs could examine the issue and if considered feasible may forward proposal through respective CRSOs.

6. Decision. The issue may be examined by CRSOs and proposals forwarded for consideration. The President directed that point be closed.

Agenda 3 – Addressing Pension Related Issues at IHQ MoD(N) (VSF Mumbai)

7. Issue. A large number of problems projected by veterans are related to pension.

The cases which can be resolved by NAVPEN are being addressed promptly. Resolving of

several other cases/ grievances which are beyond the authority and purview of NAVPEN

invariably come up during the AGMs and often lead to unpleasant discussions. To

overcome such situation, it is recommended that a nodal officer at IHQ MoD(N)/ DESA,

collect and compiles all such cases directly from veterans through DESA website for further

processing through PCDA (N)/ CGDA/ Pension Adalats. The veterans can be informed

about the date/ venue of pension adalat so that he can represent his case by himself.

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8. Discussion. The Secretary VSF highlighted the following:-

(a) Date/ venue of Pension Adalats is shared with veterans through DESA Blog

and Website.

(b) During AGMs etc. DPA/ NAVPEN sets up stalls at the venue and addresses

the issues as far as feasible/ practical.

(c) During Job Fairs/ Pension Adalats NAVPEN team is available to resolve

issues/ address concerns of veterans.

(d) NAVPEN is the single point contact with PCDA (N) and CDA Allahabad for

pension related issues and creating another link would add to the problems.

9. Decision. The President stated that DPA/ NAVPEN have been mandated to

address all Pension related issues creating another point of contact with CDA/ PCDA is not

recommended. The President directed that point be closed.

Agenda 4 – Increased Quota for Wards of ESM/ Widows [Shri Bk Moharana, Ex-

L/SRP II (202148 B)]

10. Issue. Presently, only 1% seats are reserved in general category (including PG

courses) for wards of ESM/ widows and 1% for wards of serving Defence personnel. It is

proposed that the reservation for the categories be increased to 3% as number of ESM is

increasing.

11. Discussion. The Secretary stated that an analysis of Defence Quota in Delhi

University had been undertaken and it had emerged that of the 2700 seats only about 1500

seats had been subscribed to. The President, VSF stated that like quota in jobs the

reserved seats in various colleges/ universities were not being fully utilised. He further

stated that there needs to be a comprehensive analysis of seats available vs utilised before

seeking any additional reservations.

12. Decision. The President directed VSF Command Charter Visakhapatnam/ RSU

Odisha to undertake an analysis of the reserved seats vs their utilisation and take up the

case with state government if deemed necessary. The President directed that point be

closed.

Agenda 5 – Charges at ZSB (VSF Karwar)

13. Issue. Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) is supposed to issue identity cards to ESM/ Widows

free of cost. However, Rs.150/- is being charged in Karnataka, whereas other states are not

levying similar charges. Also, certain charges are also being levied for endorsing

documents.

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14. Deliberations. The Secretary, VSF informed the gathering that KSB had confirmed

that only Dependent I-cards issued following a loss/ premature wear & tear were

chargeable at prescribed rates. Member VSF Karwar stated that the Karnataka

government had laid down the rates for various attestations and handed over a copy of the

govt circular.

15. Decision. The President directed that the issue be taken up with KSB.

Action: DESA

Agenda 6 – Compilation of Common Database for all Ex-Servicemen [Shri Bidyadhar

Nayak, ex POR (SPL) (166308 Z)]

16. Issue. Provisioning of single database for all ex-servicemen will resolve many

problems at ZSBs and minimize correspondence. Admin right should be given to ZSBs for

easy reference for further resolving the issue. The proposal of single database platform will

be revolutionary step towards digitalization.

17. Deliberations. Secretary VSF stated that such a database was available with

CABs. However, service related database cannot be shared with ZSBs/ RSBs since safety

of the same cannot be ensured. Capt (PA) recommended that the database at CABs could

be compared with Army and Air Force database if available with ZSBs to find a way ahead.

18. Decision. The President VSF directed that the issue be examined.

Action: DPA/ DESA

Additional Agenda – Grant on Attaining the Age of 80.

19. Issue. One time Grant of Rs. 18000/- on attaining the age of 80 had been discontinued. 20. Deliberations. One of the VSF members pointed out that he was handed over a pamphlet by SNC, upon retirement, wherein it was listed that on attaining the age of 80 years, the pensioner sailor would be eligible for Rs.18000/- as grant. The same had not been honoured by INBA. Secretary, INBA informed that the grant on attaining the age of 80 had been stopped some time back. He also stated that award/ discontinuation of grants was reviewed from time to time and approved by CNS chaired committee. The Secretary, INBA stated that he would revert with the reasons for discontinuation of the scheme.

21. Decision. The President VSF directed that the issue be examined.

Action: INBA

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Appendix 'C'

(Para 19 refers)

POINTS NOT TAKEN UP FOR DISCUSSION – 11th AGM

Ser Agenda Comments

1.

Application for INBA Scholarship.

INBA scholarship applications cutoff

date may be extended up to 31 Aug,

as results are published the month

of June/ July.

The cutoff date for receipt OF INBA

Scholarship applications at DNPF is 30 Oct

and therefore adequate time is available for

submission of applications.

2.

Disability Pension. Disability

pension should be exempted from

income tax.

The entire disability pension granted to Armed

Forces personnel is exempted from income

tax.

3.

Non-Availability of ECHS

Empanelled Hospital at

Srikakulam. Non-availability of

empanelled hospital at despite

presence of good private hospitals in

Srikakulam which can be considered

for empanelment with ECHS. Hence,

it is recommended that issue of

empanelment of private hospitals at

Srikakulam under ECHS may be

taken up.

The ECHS organisation is aware of the issues

regarding empanelled facilities at Srikakulam.

After considerable efforts by RC Vizag and PC

Srikakulam, KIMS hospital at Srikakulam had

applied for ECHS empanelment in 2017.

However, the hospital later backed-off, citing

low tariff of CGHS and refused to sign the

MOA. Gems hospital had agreed for

empanelment in 2018; however, the QCI team

rejected the empanelment during inspection,

as the hospital failed to provide necessary

documentation. Oi/c PC Srikakulam and

JS(HS) from RC Vizag are constantly

interacting with management of local hospitals

and veteran community to identify suitable

hospitals for empanelment.

4.

Permanent Status to ESM of

Marine Police, Odisha. About 50

Naval ex-servicemen have been

employed in State Marine Police for

8-9 years on contract basis. The

contract is being renewed every year

without any increment in salary. The

ESMs demand that they be

absorbed in state police cadre as

permanent and regular employees. It

is proposed that case be taken up

with State Govt, through IHQ MoD

(Navy) for early resolution.

In accordance with recommendations of the

13th NCSMCS meeting held in Mar 16 the

ESM were to be employed for State Marine

Police (SMP). MHA in Nov 16 had

recommended to Coastal States for

employment ESMs on permanent engagement

or long duration contracts. Considering that

employment in State Police is responsibility of

respective state governments the MHA/ MoD

can only recommend/ advice.

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Ser Agenda Comments

5.

Provision of jobs for Ex-

Servicemen. To ensure that all ex-

servicemen personnel get job once

they leave service, the need of the

hour is to extend full reservation to

ESMs in other Armed Forces, Police,

Central Govt, State Government and

PSUs. This would require priority to

be extended to ESM from the time

they leave service to actually landing

a job. It is understood that the govt

is in favour of such absorption, but

clear policies need to be laid down

to make the services attractive and

ensure a seamless transition to civil

life.

As per ex-Servicemen (re-employment in Central Civil Services and posts) rules 1979, as amended, the last amendment having being made by DOP&T OM dated 04 Oct 2012, 10% vacancies in the posts up the level of the Assistant Commandant in all Para Military Forces, 10% of the vacancies in Group ‘C’ posts and 20% vacancies in Group ‘D’ posts, including permanent vacancies filled initially on a temporary basis and temporary vacancies which are likely to be made permanent or are likely to continue for three months and more, to be filled by direct recruitment in any year shall be reserved for being filled by ESM. 14.5% vacancies in Group ‘C’ posts and 24.5% vacancies in Group ‘D’ posts are reserved for ESM and dependents of those killed in action in central Public Sector Undertakings. 14.5% vacancies in Group ‘C’ posts and 24.5% vacancies in Group ‘D’ posts are reserved for ESM/ disabled ex-servicemen killed in action in Public Sector Banks/ Financial Institutions. State Govts have also reserved jobs for ex-servicemen. The percentage and groups in which these jobs have been reserved varies from state to state. Some State Govt have provided reservation across the board ie from Group ‘A’ to Group ’D’ posts. DGR is the designated nodal agency on behalf of DESW/ MoD to collect and compile required data for facilitating monitoring of implementation of reservation policy for ESM.

It is seen from the half yearly reports for the six monthly period ending Jun 18 and Dec 18 submitted by user organisations that there is a huge shortfall (3393 out of 5413) in the vacancies reserved for ESM in Groups ‘B’ and ‘C’ Posts (Gp C and D posts merged in accordance with VI CPC recommendations). This is due to ESM not getting selected for these jobs in the recruitment examination conducted by Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), Staff Selection Commission and other competitive examinations holding bodies due to inadequate preparation by them even though selection of ESM for reserved

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Ser Agenda Comments

vacancies is carried out under “relaxed standards” in terms of DOP&T OM dated 12 Feb 1986. Considering that a large number of vacancies over the years are heavily undersubscribed and lying vacant due to ESM not meeting the QR/ not qualifying in the entrance/ competitive exams, there is requirement of a concerted effort by the prospective candidates (retiring/ retired ESMs) to prepare for the entrance exams held under “relaxed standards”. A fresh case for reservations has also been forwarded to MoD in May 19 as follows:-

15% in Gp ‘A’ and ‘B’ gazetted posts.

10% in Gp ‘B’ non-gazetted posts.

15% in Gp ‘C’ posts.

6.

Children Education Allowances

for CPOs and Above. Presently,

Children Educational Allowance

(CEA) is applicable for ESM of the

ranks of PO & below. The same

should also be applicable to ESM

above the ranks of PO. As the

promotion to the rank of CPO/

equivalent is faster nowadays, their

children could attend only lower

classes in school by the time of

retirement. Hence majority of ESMs

(CPOs and above) are being

deprived of this benefit.

Currently, the financial assistance (CEA) is provided by KSB only to the wards of pensioners/ non-pensioner upto the rank of Havildar/ equivalent in Navy & Air Force at the rate of 1000/- pm. The financial assistance is not provided to JCOs/ equivalent as they serve till the age of 50 and are financially better off than Havildars/ eqvt and below. Also, by this age their children settle down/ beyond the school going age (barring exceptions). Also, funds are inadequate to provide for CEA to JCOs/ equivalent. This issue was discussed in VSF AGM at Goa in 2017.

7.

Widows Daughter Marriage

Allowance. Widows daughter

marriage allowance be increased

from Rs 50,000.00/- to Rs 1,00,000/-

.

The widow daughter marriage allowance has

been increased from Rs 16000/- to Rs

50000/- wef 01 Apr 2016. Current request is

to further raise it from Rs. 50,000/- to Rs. 1,

00,000/-. The same is not feasible due to

financial constraints/ recent enhancement of

allowance.

8.

Daughter’s Marriage Grant.

Presently, daughters marriage grant

is admissible only to widows from

INBA. It is proposed that it should be

extended to all ESMs.

This scheme has been designed only for

widows and it is not intended to expand the

scope.

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Ser Agenda Comments

9.

Grants for ex-Servicemen.

Marriage grant for daughters and

Education grant for children of

Havildar/ equivalent and below

granted by Kendriya Sainik Board is

pending for years (approx 3 to 4

yrs).

Funding for various schemes is undertaken by

KSB through voluntary donations. Hence the

payment of various grants is dependent on

fund availability. The issue was discussed in

VSF AGM at Goa in 2017.

10.

Quota at Graduation Level for

Children of Armed Forces

Personnel. Quota for children of

Armed Forces personnel be

increased to a minimum 6% from the

existing 2%. This increase is a must

to accommodate all the children of

Armed Forces personnel, since the

quota has also been allowed for

Central Armed Forces Personnel

(erstwhile Para Military Forces). It is

considered that the 2% quota is very

low to cater for over 51 lakhs serving

and ESM personnel. Breakdown of

serving/ ESM is 15/ 17 lakhs and

Para military forces is 09/ 10 lakhs.

Presently, most ESM are paying

exorbitant amount in management

quota thereby spending life time

savings on higher education of their

children or sending their children

abroad for studies since it is cheaper

than the management quota.

A case may be taken up by CRSO (East)

through, RSB, Andhra Pradesh as a pilot

project to increase the percentage from 2% to

6%. The KSB will then attempt to replicate the

same in other central/ state institutions.

Further, there is a need to assess subscription

of available seats by the ESM. In case of

Delhi University this year, the Armed forces

quota of seats was under subscribed.

CRSO (East) may undertake a study to assess

the availability of ESM quota seats and its

level of subscription. In case allocated/

available reserved seats are considered

inadequate a case with state government may

be taken up.

11.

ZSB at Daman. The opening of

ZSB at Daman & Diu has been

regularly raised by the veterans

during AGMs of Mumbai charter

since 2016. The case is still in

abeyance despite issuance of

notification by Home Dept. of Daman

& Diu UT Administration vide

notification no. 07/06/99-HOE/620

dated 06 Dec 2000 and No. 1/ DC/

HOME/ RSB/36/ 2012-13/630 dated

30 Jan 13. The KSB and UT Admin

ZSBs in States/ Union Territories are

established at the behest of their

administrations subject to KSB guidelines. The

matter may be referred to Daman

Administration. Simultaneously, DESA will

refer the case to MoD/ DESW for necessary

action.

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Ser Agenda Comments

of Daman & Diu be prevailed upon

to expedite commissioning of ZSB at

Daman & Diu. At present, all cases

of ESM in the UT are being

addressed at RSB Goa which poses

a practical difficulty due physical

separation of State and UT.

12.

Non Entitlement of ESM Benefits

to Veterans in Maharashtra State.

Many ESM who have shifted their

names from their native ZSBs to

ZSBs under Maharashtra Govt.

Administration (viz Mumbai, Thane,

Pune etc.) have not been granted

with ESM benefits till completion of

15 years after registration with these

ZSBS. Thereby refraining ESM from

availing entitled benefits in time.

As per KSB policy ESM are permitted to

migrate to a different ZSB by following

guidelines promulgated by KSB. Grant of

state benefits to such ESM is a state subject.

The issue pertains to a particular state and

needs to be addressed by RSB/ ZSB in the

first instance.

13.

Release of Funds by Maharshtra

Govt. Maharashtra Govt. is not

releasing funds to CIDCO for

construction of community hall at

Kharghar, Navi Mumbai despite all

sanctions/ approvals. Repeated

reminders sent by HQWNC to RSB

have not yielded any response.

Construction of community hall does not come

under purview of KSB. The issue may be

addressed locally through HQWNC/ RSB.

14.

Enhancement of Scholarship.

Scholarship given by state

government to the wards of ESM/

ESM widows is very less. A class

10th student gets Rs. 362/- pa. The

same could be enhanced by the

State Govt. to a reasonable amount.

The matter comes under State Jurisdiction and

needs to be resolved at that level. HQWNC

through RSB may take up the case for

enhancement of scholarship with Karnataka

Government.

15.

Civilian Officers at ZSBs. Deputy/

Joint Directors at ZSBs Bijapur,

Gulbarga and Bagalkot are civilian

officers. These officers are not very

familiar with the ESM affairs and are

therefore not able to address all the

issues adequately. It is, therefore,

recommended that these posts

could be manned by retired officers

The matter is being pursued by MoD/ KSB and

is likely to be resolved in the near future. KSB

letter 041/POLICY/NAVY/VOL-I dated 31 Jul

19 refers.

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Ser Agenda Comments

from IN/ IAF/ Indian Army.

16.

Pension Formalities at ZSB. Post

approval of pension for ESM with 10

years of service, the veterans have

been approaching the ZSBs to

process their cases iaw the

guidelines at CABS/ NAVPEN

website. However, the ZSBs are

slow in processing and are asking

for additional documents, not listed

in the CABS/ NAVPEN website. It is

requested that KSBs may please be

requested to provide requisite

guidelines to ZSBs.

The matter may be referred to KSB, under

intimation to IHQ MoD (N)/ DESA, with full

details by means of a separate letter to

progress the issue.

17.

NRS/ VSF Office at Bangalore.

The INVSA, Bangalore has

proposed to have an NRS/ VSF

office at KM Cariappa Bhawan

premises (where the RSB/ ZSB is

located). This office would undertake

dissemination of NRS/ VSF

concerned information to the

veterans & dependents of Karnataka

state. However, this office space

needs to be provided by the State

Govt/ RSB to INSVA. Presently, few

vacant spaces are available in the

basement which could be utilized for

the NRS VSF office. If the proposal

is accepted, IHQ, MoD (Navy) could

request the State Govt/ RSB through

KSB to allot space in the basement

of KM Cariappa Bhawan.

INVSA is not recognised by IN. Further, there

is no VSF Charter at Bangalore. If considered

necessary INVSA may pursue the issue

directly with State Government.

18.

Allocation of Land to ESMs.

Revoke the gazette no. 7390-

Polls/2-04/2013-Poll dated 19 Feb

2014 over ‘Jawan Sarankhita’ land

and allotment. Land to be allocated

to ESMs as per previous policy.

Allotment of land is a state subject and needs

to be taken up with State Government through

Distt administration. RSB/ ZSB may take up

the case with State Administration for

resolution.

19.

Establishing Additional ZSB.

Opening of ZSB, Khurdha will help

more than 300 Naval and 4000

The matter has been referred to Govt of

Odisha (Home Dept) vide KSB letter 20/

P/ODISHA/KSB dated 25 Feb 19. Response is

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Ser Agenda Comments

Army/ Air Force ESM/ Widows/ NOK

settled in and around of

Bhubaneswar. This will also reduce

the load on ZSB, Cuttack.

awaited.

20.

Increase of Ex-Gratia Grant.

Presently, ex-gratia grant of Rs.5

lakhs and consolidated pension @

Rs. 2000/- pm is given to NoKs of

Defence personnel and Paramilitary

forces of state who make supreme

sacrifices for the country during war/

counter insurgency operations. It is

proposed to increase ex-gratia grant

to Rs 10 lakh and pension to Rs

10,000/ - pm at least.

Issue of ex-Gratia grant is a state subject.

RSB/ ZSB may take up the case with State

Administration for resolution.

21.

Upgradation of Infrastructure and

Staff at ZSBs in Odisha. Central

govt through Kendriya Sainik Board

can facilitate early upliftment with

sufficient infrastructure of ZSBs in

coordination with Govt of Odisha.

KSB charter includes ‘provisioning of

budgetary support for establishment/

maintenance costs of Depts of Sainik

Welfare and Zila Sainik Welfare Offices to

States/ UTs. Accordingly, Secy KSB has

requested all Directors for augmentation of

infrastructure and facilities at RSBs/ ZSBs vide

letter 20/Policy/Odisha/KSB/ A dated 28 Feb

19.

22.

Upgradation of ECHS Cards/ Early

Issue of 64 KB ECHS Cards. The

verification of 64 Kb ECHS cards at

NAVPEN is inordinately delayed

(approximately one year) resulting in

long waiting time for issue of cards.

The process of verification of ECHS cards is

manual and, therefore, time consuming. At

present, there are over 28,000 applications

pending verification at NAVPEN (record

office). All efforts are being made to clear

pending applications expeditiously. However,

through various policy letters, it has been

ensured that no temporary slip holder is

denied treatment in the polyclinics and/ or

empanelled facilities.

23.

Establishment of New ECHS

Polyclinic at Ambernath. Approx

1500 ESMs are settled in Ambernath

and nearby area along with their

families. The medical issues of such

large population is being addressed

by ECHS poly clinic Kanjurmarg. It

takes more than one & half hour to

A type ‘D’ ECHS polyclinic is proposed to be

established at Ambernath, along with 101

other locations. The proposal has been

pending with GoI/ MoD since Sep 17. The

case is being pursued regularly by Central

Organisation, ECHS.

20

Ser Agenda Comments

travel in local trains to reach Kanjur

Marg. Journey, in a local train by a

patient, is a herculean task to

perform being overcrowded. Hence,

ESM are forced to take treatment

from civil hospitals with heavy fees.

Issue was raised during AGMs for

establishing ECHS polyclinic at

Ambernath. Consequently, AIP has

been accorded for setting up of

same at Ambernath in phase III

expansion plan by IHQ and

HQWNC. However, sanction for

phase III is yet to be received from

GoI. The issue needs to be

addressed on priority to facilitate

ESM with entitled benefits.

24.

Additional ECHS Polyclinic at

Belgavi (Belgaum), Karnataka.

The only type ‘B’ polyclinic at

Belgaum caters to a large population

of ESM and their dependents. It is

felt that an additional type‘D’

polyclinic near Air Force Station

Sambra would de-congest the

existing polyclinic and provide ECHS

facility to ESM in that part of

Belgaum.

A list of 102 new ECHS polyclinics was

forwarded by Central Organisation, ECHS for

approval of GoI/ MoD in Sep 17. The same is

yet to be approved. However, the list does not

include establishment of poly clinic at Belgavi.

It is, therefore, recommended that SoC, along

with justification, including certificate of

number of ESM and also their dependents,

from Rajya Saink Board, may be forwarded to

take up the case with Central Organisation

ECHS.

25.

ECHS Empanelled Hospitals –

Odisha. It is requested that number

of empanelled hospitals be

increased near Bhubaneswar,

Cuttack, Berhampur, Sambalpur,

Rourkela, Jaipur, Balasore and

Balangir.

Continued efforts are being put-in by all

concerned to have quality hospitals

empanelled with ECHS. This is an ongoing

process and is done based on MOA, provided

concerned hospital(s) is/ are willing and meet

the quality criteria as laid down by IMC. Many

a times, hospitals do not want to be

empanelled with govt health schemes due to

their low rates. Notwithstanding, utmost care is

being taken to empanel quality hospitals/

facilities with ECHS. Further, a

comprehensive list of empanelled facilities,

region- wise with the validity of their MOA is

available on www.echs.gov.in and can also be

obtained from respective polyclinics.

21

Ser Agenda Comments

26.

ECHS Empanelled Hospitals -

Karnataka. Veterans and their

dependents have to travel long

distances to visit service hospitals/

empanelled hospitals/ chemists/

diagnostic centres. This could be

overcome by empanelling multi

specialist hospitals/ chemists/

diagnostic centres located in close

proximity of the ECHS polyclinic.

Towards this the ECHS polyclinic as

also the respective ECHS station

Headquarters/ RC have to initiate

actions for empanelment of

hospitals/ chemists/ diagnostic

centres. Also, ESI hospitals like ESI

Gulbarga located close to the ECHS

polyclinic could be deemed as

empanelled hospitals like the govt.

hospitals, to provide cover to the

ESM.

Constant efforts are being put-in by all

concerned to have quality hospitals

empanelled with ECHS. Many a times

hospitals do not want to be empanelled with

Govt health schemes due to their low rates

and there are some hospitals which do not

meet the required standards during inspection.

In future also, all out efforts will be put-in to

ensure empanelment of quality hospitals with

ECHS.

27.

Issue of ECHS Cards. NAVPEN

refuses to register/ accept

applications soon after issue of PPO

and veterans are asked to visit

NAVPEN after six month.

PPO is required by NAVPEN (Record Office)

for verification purpose. ECHS applications

can be submitted at any point in time after

CABS publishes the release order for an

individual. Information provided is factually

incorrect.

28.

Pay Protection for Ex-Servicemen.

Pay protection has been

implemented only within the banking

and insurance sector in Public

Sector Undertakings (PSU’s).

However, no other establishment of

the government offers pay protection

to the ESM for acknowledging the

years of service rendered as well as

the experience gained by the

veterans. Pay protection if

implemented would be a great

motivational factor for the veterans,

since it acknowledges their value to

the nation. For a start, it is opined

Pay fixation of retired government defence

personnel on re-employed in central

government posts are elucidated in DOP&T

OM 3/13/2008-Estt(Pay-II) dated 11 Nov 08

which has been amended vide OMs

3/19/2009-Estt(Pay-II) dated 05 Apr 10 and 08

Nov 10. As per these orders, personnel

retired from govt services (including

defence personnel) and re-employed in

govt services after 01 Jan 06 are eligible for

pay protection comprising Pay in Pay Band

+ Grade Pay + Non-Practicing Allowance

(NPA) if applicable.

Ministry of Finance vide circular no F N0

4/1/2010-SCT(B) dated 23 Mar 12 has issued

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Ser Agenda Comments

that healthy PSU’S, Major/ Mini-

Ratnas and PSU’s in maritime sector

like Shipyards and Port Trusts which

are profit-making may offer pay

protection to the ex-servicemen.

Large employers like Indian

Railways and Airport Authority of

India could also be considered for

pay protection. This will help the

ESM in the long run, especially

when the benefits of ‘Make in India’

percolate to downstream industries

in the defence and maritime sector.

instructions to Public Sector Financial

Institutions, Insurance Companies (such as

LIC, IRDA, RBI, etc) to provide pay protection

to the ESM employed by them.

The Indian Banks Association (IBA) vide

circular HR&IR/Cir/2013-14/589/8764 dated 30

Jan 14 also have issued similar directives to

various Public Sector Banks to implement

DOP&T orders regarding pay protection for

ESMs employed by them.

BHEL/ BEL etc PSUs follows Dte of Heavy

Industries (DHI) regulations laid down by Dept

of Heavy Industries (DHE) and does not follow

DoPT Regulations. A case has been taken

up with DOP&T OM no 3/3/20-ESTT (PAY-II)

dated 01 May 2017 and is under review.

29.

Special Pension for Pre-Jul 1976

Retirees. Special pension already

granted for post Jul 76 Naval

Veterans may be considered for pre

Jul 76 sympathetically on

humanitarian grounds, view

advanced age of the veterans (ie,

they are approx 75 yrs of age) and

few surviving beneficiaries.

Refer to discussions of Action Points of 10th

AGM.

30.

Reservist Pension. Reservist

pension may be converted into a

service pension, so that pension of

the rank can be availed. This is a

long pending issue which if resolved

will benefit the veterans.

Service Pension and Reservist Pension are

two different types of pensions. Navy

(Pension) regulations, 1964 provide two

separate regulations to specify the conditions

for granting the same.

As per regulation 78 eligibility for Navy

(Pension) is 15 years. Further, on discharge

from active service, if a sailor is drafted into

fleet reserve for a further period of 10 years,

his rank is termed as “Reservist”, which is

irrespective of rank last held.

On completion of reserve tenure, a ‘Reservist

becomes eligible for Reservist Pension in

accordance with regulations 92 of the Navy

23

Ser Agenda Comments

(Pension) regulations 1964 which specifies

that a reservist who is not in receipt of a

service pension may be granted, on

completion of prescribed naval and reserve

qualifying service of ten years each, a

reservist pension or gratuity in lieu of pension.

Further, one type of pension cannot be

converted to another type of pension as per

rules.

31.

Dissemination of Information to

Pension Disbursing Authorities.

The banks & CPPC are raising

queries on the entitlement of

pension to unmarried/ divorced/

widow daughters. Consequently,

difficulties are faced to progress the

pension formalities. Therefore,

timely dissemination of information

to pension disbursing authorities

would go a long way to resolve the

above issue.

All the pension related circulars are issued by

PCDA (P), Allahabad which are addressed to

all the PCDAs and CPPCs for implementation.

However, IHQMoD(N)/ DPA and NAVPEN

make efforts and take up the matters of Naval

personnel with the respective bank/ CPPCs to

resolve the issues related to their pension/

family pension. In addition, these aspects have

been reiterated to all PDAs during the bank

CPPC conference held on 04 Sep 19 at

Mumbai.

32.

Reservist Pension. The individual

[Shri XB David, ex- Sea I, (44208)]

served in Royal Indian Navy from

1948-1960 and was retained as a

reservist for 10 years from 1960-

1970. The individual has been

receiving reservist pension, however

he claims that he is entitled for

service pension as 10 years’ service

as reservist may be counted as 05

years of active service.

There is no provision of counting of 05 years

(50% of reserve tenure) of reserve service with

10 years active service for granting service

pension in Navy (pension) regulations 1964.

33.

Stipulated Timelines from Receipt

of Pension Papers. There should

be stipulated timelines from receipt

of pension papers to issue of PPO

and actual payment of pension by

bank. It should not be more than

30 days.

Issuance of PPO involves action by various

stake holders and set timelines have not been

promulgated view numerous dynamic factors

not under control of PCDA, NAVPEN, NPO,

Bank and IHQ MoD (N). Notwithstanding, all

out efforts are undertaken by all agencies for

quick issuances of PPO.

Detailed timeline for completion and

submission of pension related documents is

24

Ser Agenda Comments

already in place and has been promulgated

vide Navy Order 17/13. If all the documents

are received by NAVPEN from the individual

and other agencies as per the timeline

promulgated, the PPOs are issued by PCDA

(N), Mumbai 01 month prior to the date of

retirement of the personnel.

34.

Reduction of Age Limit for

Additional Pension. Reduction of

age limit from 80 to 75 years for

additional pension may be

considered.

As per MoD letter no. 1(i)/2009/D(Pen/Policy)

dated 18 Aug 09, and 17(01)/2017/(02)/D

(Pension/ Policy) dated 05 Sep 17,

pensioners/ family pensioners of the age of 80

years and above only are eligible for additional

pension/ family pension. There is no change in

age limits for addition pension/ family pension.

35.

Non-Employment Certificate.

NAVPEN insists on non-

employment, non-conviction

certificate for processing pension

formalities even though NHQ in Dec

18 had dispensed with such

requirements.

These have been dispensed off with and are

no longer required iaw latest Hon’ble Supreme

Court Order.

36.

Purchase of Car through CSD. As

per IHQ MoD (Army/ CSD letter no

95350/Q/DDGCS/Car/Policy dated

24 May 19, cars upto 1400cc (less

than Rs. five lakh excluding GST are

authorized for personnel upto the

rank of MCPO). Limited make and

models of cars are available in

canteen and case may be taken up

with higher authorities for the

removal of restriction of cash limit

from Rs. five lakh to cover more

variety of make and model of cars in

canteen to cater for actual cost of

car in the market.

Current policy guidelines for purchase of four

wheelers through CSD have been recently

promulgated and have been brought into force

after due deliberations at appropriate level. It

is thus not feasible to seek any revision at

this stage since guidelines have been

issued recently by the DDGCS.

37.

Review of Policy - Purchase of

Car for ESM. ESMs who have not

purchased any car while in service

may be permitted to purchase two

cars after retirement with a gap of 10

years. As per current policy, PBORs

The guidelines on purchase of four wheelers

through CSD have been promulgated vide IHQ

MoD (Army)/ CSD letter 95350/ Q/ DDGCS/

Car/ Policy dated 24 May 19. The PBORs are

entitled for purchase of four wheelers once in

service and once after retirement.

25

Ser Agenda Comments

are permitted to purchase one car

while in service and one after

retirement with a gap of 8 years.

However, majority of ESM whilst in

service do not have enough financial

backing to purchase any car and

thus lose an opportunity which is

admissible in the current regulations.

Post retirement at a relatively young

age of 35 – 40 years, ESMs are

financially more sound and hence in

a position to buy cars. However,

since only one car can be bought

during balance lifetime, it is very

difficult to maintain such car beyond

10 years. It is, therefore, proposed

that the matter be taken up with IHQ

MoD (Army)/ GoI for issue of

necessary directives/ amendment to

existing regulations.

First four wheeler can be purchased after six

years of service and interval between

purchases of two four wheelers is required to

be eight years as per existing guidelines.

It is pertinent to mention that pay and

allowances of service personnel have been

considerably enhanced post VI CPC and the

PBORs can afford to purchase four wheelers

even while in service and after retirement.

38.

Removal of Restriction on Time

Gap for Purchase of Cars.

Removal of restriction on purchase

limit of car for PBORs and limits on

maximum permissible amount to be

increased.

The current policy guidelines for purchase of

four wheelers through CSD have been

promulgated vide IHQ MOD (ARMY)/QMG’s

Branch/DDGCS letter 95350/Q/DDGCS/Car/

Policy dated 24 May 19. The extant guidelines

have been brought into force after due

deliberations at appropriate level. It is thus not

feasible to seek any revision at this stage

since guidelines have been issued recently

by the DDGCS.

39.

Signing Authority for Attractive/

Costly Items. As per IHQ MoD

(Army) Letter 95350/Q/DDGCS/AFD

dated 27 Nov 18 the indent form is

to be countersigned by chairman

URC/ designated officer being

serving officer not below the rank of

Colonel/ Equivalent. The strength of

ESMs in Andhra Pradesh is approx

87,000 spread over 13 districts and

it is not feasible for a single CRSO

who implements this order to sign

the indent forms and keep track of

such a vast population. It also

The guidelines stipulate that indent from for

purchase of AFD items is required to be

countersigned by chairman of URC/

designated serving officer not below the rank

of Colonel/ Equivalent as nominated by

formation Headquarters.

HQENC vide letter CT/0115/POLICY/AFD

/INCS dated 25 Apr 19 has nominated

Command Canteen Officer for countersigning

of indents in respect of serving personnel and

Command Regimental System Officer (CRSO)

for countersigning the indents in respect of

ESM respectively.

26

Ser Agenda Comments

affects other day to day functioning

of CRSO. It is recommended that

the countersign of indent be done

away with since the process is

automated using smart cards and

the software can be used to cater for

all types of costly/ attractive items

including 2/4 wheelers. Moreover,

once automation has been

implemented the counter signature

is infructuous since most restrictions

including monthly quotas are already

fed into the software.This would free

up the time of CRSO staff to attend

to core functions. Till complete

automation, district ZSWO’s be

permitted to countersign the indents

so as to decentralise the activity and

to cater for unique situation in

Andhra Pradesh which is over-reliant

on Naval INCS, especially for

scooters, motorcycles, cars apart

from the other costly items like air

conditioners, washing machines, etc.

The proposal of CRSO to discontinue

countersigning of indent is not tenable in

accordance with guidelines issued by DDGCS.

CRSO (East) may approach HQENC to

nominate additional officers of the rank of

Colonel/ equivalent if so required, towards

countersigning of indents of ESM.

40.

Extension of Dealership for Costly

Items. It is proposed that the

provision of costly items at CSD rate

(for Car/ Bike) through dealers at

Balugaon, Bhubaneswar,

Sambalpur, Rourkela and Balasore

be taken up.

The guidelines for sale of against firm demand

(AFD) items have been promulgated vide IHQ

MOD (Army)/ QMG’s Branch/DDGCS letter

95350/Q/DDGCS/ AFD dated 27 Nov

18.Revised procedure stipulates that the

beneficiary to submit indent from for purchase

of AFD items to the nominated URC.

The URC thereafter is to process the

documents with dependent CSD depot and

collect Local Supply Order (LSO) on behalf of

beneficiary. The LSO is then handed over to

the beneficiary to obtain delivery of stores from

authorised CSD dealers as intimated by

designated URC.

The URC at 120 Inf Bn (TA), Bhubaneswar

and Army AD centre, Gopalpur have been

nominated by the DDGCS for sale of AFD

items within the state of Odisha.

27

Ser Agenda Comments

41.

Canteen Facilities The canteen

facilities setup by IAF/ NCC are not

adequate in terms of infrastructure

and supplies. Aged veterans have to

wait for hours in queue and the

items get exhausted by second/ third

week of the month. Also, at Bidar the

veterans are not permitted on

Sundays.

The point raised by VSF Karwar is generic in

nature and does not specify any particular

URC. VSF Karwar may indicate the specific

URC wherein canteen facilities need to be

improved, so that the matter can be taken up

with canteen services directorate for

necessary action.

42.

Monetary Limit for Liquor

Purchase. There is a requirement

of increasing the monetary limit for

liquor purchase from canteen

because of inflation. Further, as per

relevant order, individual can

purchase only one bottle of scotch

whiskey costing upto Rs. 1000/-

however, all scotch whisky now cost

more than Rs. 1000/- hence, there is

a need to revise the eligibility rates

of purchase of the same from CSD.

Representations were received, in the past by

DDGCS, with regard to purchase of premium

liquor from CSD. DDGCS vide letter

96220/Q/DDGCS/ Liquor dated 03 May 18,

has confirmed that beneficiaries can purchase

50% of the liquor costing more than Rs.

1,000/- per bottle per month against their

monthly liquor entitlement.

The point raised by ESM that an individual

can purchase only one bottle of Scotch

whisky costing upto Rs. 1,000/- is thus not

understood.

43.

Policy for Change of Name. Policy

and procedure for change of name

for NOK/ Dependent of ESM/

Widows of Navy personnel be

looked into for easier way of getting

it done. As per existing policy Navy

seeks Gazette Notification for

change of name, which is a time

consuming and difficult process. In

this respect policy promulgated by

Army & Air Force be looked into as it

is simpler than Navy.

For a total or major ‘Change of Name” (for eg.

Ram Singh to Harpreet Singh), the ESM or

NOK are advised to submit all requisite

documents as mentioned vide IHQ MOD (N)/

DESA letter DX/VSF/165/15 DT 18 Feb 15.

In cases of a partial of minor change/

‘correction of name’ (for example, Ram Singh

to Raam Singh), the ESM or NOK are advised

to submit a court affidavit signed by

magistrate/ notary along with valid id proof

(Pan Card, Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card etc.)

44.

1946 Naval Uprising. The 1946

Naval Uprising Memorial at

Wodehouse Road, Mumbai should

be kept open for public during the

entire uprising week beginning 18

Feb and celebrated as ‘Azad Hind

Nau Vidroha Divas’. The event

should be celebrated by IN and

1946 Naval Uprising Memorial could be open

to public for a duration of one week wef 18

Feb 20.

This is individual veteran’s opinion and may

not pertain to majority members. If deemed

necessary the issue may be taken up directly

with DPS/ HQWNC.

28

Ser Agenda Comments

should be made part of India’s

freedom struggle history. Further,

platinum jubilee of the uprising in

2021 to be celebrated by the Navy

for the entire week on a grand scale

all over India.

45.

Setting up of Armed Forces

Tribunal. Armed Forces Tribunal to

be set up for benefit of ESMs of

Odisha.

RSB Odisha may liaise with State Govt for

setting up AFT Bench at Cuttack.

46.

Grant of Special Pension for

Boy’s Entry. Grant of special

pension for boy’s entry.

Boy’s service is being counted for grant of

special pension. The issue was discussed

in VSF AGM in 2017.

47.

Reservations of Seats for ESM/

Widows in MP/ MLA/ Panchayat

Election. Reservation of seats for

ESM/ widows in MP/ MLA/

Panchayat level elections.

VSF being an apolitical organisation

addresses common/ general concerns of

retired community. Political issues are not

appropriate for discussion in this forum.

48.

Ship Building Yard in Odisha. It is

proposed that a ship building yard in

the coast of Odisha be built for

utilising the resources and

generating revenue.

Ship Building Yards are created post

comprehensive assessment of demand and

supply as well as suitability of location. This

issue is beyond the purview of IHQ MoD (N)/

DESA and may be taken up by concerned

VSF directly with State Govt if considered

necessary.

49.

Establishment of RSU, Odisha at

Bhubaneswar. Presently RSU,

(OD) office operates from INS

Chilka. INS Chilka is remotely

located with only few trains stopping

and no good hotels are available

nearby. Lack of above mentioned

facilities increases difficulties for day

to day affairs of ESM/ widows.

Therefore, it is proposed to shift,

RSU(OD) from Chilka to

Bhubaneswar.

RSUs, throughout Navy, operate from the

nearest Naval Unit. Many Northern and North

Eastern states do not even have a Naval Unit

within the state and are dependent on nearest

state where a Naval Unit is located.

Large amount of funds are required to

maintain and operate an RSU and would be

feasible only within the campus of a

permanent Naval establishment. Therefore

INS Chilka is ideally suited for operating the

RSU within the campus.

Representations of ESM/ Widows could be

submitted at the NOIC (ODs) office in

Bhubaneswar for onward dispatch to INS

Chilka as an alternative. To ease two-way

communication, documents from INS Chilka

could also be forwarded to NOIC (ODs) office

for collection by ESM at Bhubaneswar.

29

Ser Agenda Comments

50.

Appointment of ESM for VSF/ RSU

duty at RSU Chilka. Appointment

of ESM for VSF/ RSU duty at RSU,

Chilka on monthly salary basis may

be explored.

Hiring of ESM through non-public fund of RSU

is not feasible view paucity of funds. However,

feasibility of hiring ESM through public funds

will be explored subject to availability of funds.

51.

Provision of Transit

Accommodation. Provision of

transit accommodation for ESM/

widows at Chilka at nominal cost.

Presently, transit accommodation at INS

Chilka is not available. Feasibility of

undertaking the project though work route is

being explored.

52.

One Time Grant to Natural

Calamity Affected ESM/ Widows

from INBA. One time grant to

natural calamity affected ESM/

Widows from INBA should be

provided.

The corpus of INBA does not permit Indian Navy to extend this grant to ESM. NDRF/ SDRF grants may be availed. During natural calamity state governments also provide financial assistance to affected populace.

53.

Publicity Material for VSF

Members. Calendars/ Diaries may

be given to VSF members.

Considering that IN is promoting digitisation.

Printing of veterans calendars/ diaries is not

being undertaken.

54.

Irregularity in ‘Not Aggravated by

& Not Attributed to’ (NANA).

Hon’ble Supreme Court order over

NANA (Not Aggravated By & No

Attributed To) is not followed by

three services. Maximum soldiers

boarded out on disability ground are

not getting disability pension.

Attributable to/ Aggravated by service in

respect to diseases are accorded by Medical

Boards as per provisions in Chapter IV of

guide to medical officers (military pensions)

2002 as amended in 2008.

Hon’ble court orders are implemented on a

case to case basis. Invalidment on medical

grounds does not automatically entitle an

individual for disability pension.

The disability pension is sanctioned only if the

disability/ injury is either attributed to or

aggravated by service.

55.

Revision of National

Classification of Occupation

Code. The NCO (National

Classification of Occupation code)

equivalent to civil side is quite old

one and now need to be amended

The new NCO code has been revised and

forwarded to DGR. Processing of the same is

under progress by DGR with Ministry of

Labour & Employment. It is envisaged that

new NCO code would be promulgated by DGR

post vetting by concerned stakeholders.

56.

Job Fair in Bhubaneswar. Job fair

may be organised at Bhubaneswar,

Odisha biennially in collaboration

with state govt. and other

employment agencies.

The job fairs are organized and coordinated by

DGR at various locations in the country.

Various factors are considered by DGR while

planning a job fair. Notwithstanding, a request

for organising a job fair at Bhubaneswar will be

forwarded to DGR for consideration.

30

Ser Agenda Comments

57.

Implementation of ADLRS. ADLRs

is effectively implemented by Army

and Air Force authority for Army and

Air Force veterans by their

administration instructions issued on

10 Jul 2006 by HQ ATNK&K AREA,

Chennai and DPS/AHQ(VB) New

Delhi dated 16 Oct 2007. No similar

administration instructions were

issued by DESA/ IHQ for Naval

Veterans. Recently two naval

veterans died in Chennai due to

illness and road accident who were

around 50 years of age, and

immediately reported to INS Adyar

through Oi/C, RSU, but Adyar

refused even to lay a wreath on

dead body, saying there is provision

only for Admirals and Gallantry

Award Winners, not for other

Officers and Sailors, This type of

attitude is not acceptable from

service personnel even during last

journey of Veteran sailors. We

therefore request you to issue

suitable instructions and guidelines

to all service units to fall in line with

other Army and Air Force units in this

regards without any difference in

Rank structure of Armed Forces.

Similar request is already sent to

FOTNA and NOIC, Chennai.

The following are authorised for military funeral vide navy order ibid:-

All Serving Members of Armed Forces (except suicide cases).

Retired CNS, C-in-Cs and Vice Chiefs/ equivalents.

Current regulations do not cater for ADLRs.

Also unlike Army/ Air Force the presence of

Navy is limited to a few stations. Hence it

would not be possible to implement ADLRs.

58.

64 KB ECHS Cards. The individual

(Shri Bir Singh ex- LME) has applied

for the 64 Kb ECHS cards for self,

spouse and daughter and received

the same for self and daughter.

However, ECHS card in respect of

the individual’s wife has not been

received. ECHS website is

displaying ‘waiting for documents

from records office’.

It is unclear from the information provided by

the individual as to whether the application of

wife is pending due to some observation or

want of any other documents. The issue can

be resolved if the individual is directed to

contact this office on echsdelhi@navy.gov.in or

011-24101319. Bilateral issue, Shri Bir Singh

to contact ECHS for resolution.

31

Ser Agenda Comments

59.

Verification Of Service Book.

Delay in verification of service book

IN- 271 at NAVPEN, of Shri Bir

Singh ex-LME after receipt of

pension papers when list of eligible/

ineligibles (for special pension) was

prepared by NAVPEN in Jul 17.

LOIC NAVPEN personally spoke to Shri Bir

Singh on 24 Jul 19 and briefed him of the

requirements of documents. He has agreed to

send court order, Panchayat and Divorce

documents of first wife.

60.

Delay in Part II Orders. Inordinate

delay in making Part-II orders/ IN

271 at NAVPEN when all papers are

processed and attested by ZSB.

LOIC NAVPEN personally spoke to Shri Bir

Singh on 24 Jul 19 and briefed him of the

requirements of documents. He has agreed to

send court order, Panchayat and Divorce

documents of first wife. Documents are still

awaited.

61.

Delay in Part II Order. The

individual [Shri Uttam Kumar Basu,

ex- POELR, (117645 A)] retired from

Service in Aug 2010 and married in

2012. He submitted all required

documents and Part II order, etc. He

had applied for a corrigendum PPO

for joint notification. NAVPEN

generated the same with a wrong

bank account and returned the same

to Naval Pension Office with a

request for making corrections. Four

years have passed with several

correspondences without any

progress.

LOIC NAVPEN spoke to Shri Basu, Ex POELR

on 24 Jul 19 at 1230h. Veteran has been

issued with PPO and pension has started. The

veteran wants wife’s name to be included in

PPO. PPO issued on Union Bank of India

instead of United Bank of India. Case taken

up.