BSNL Executive Associations Unitedly Protest Against SET Recruitment - Joint Representation Submitted to CMD BSNL :The executive associations of BSNL SNEA, AIGETOA, SEWA, and AIBSNLEA collectively and with unified voice stand against the recently issued notification for the recruitment of Senior Executive Trainee (SET) in Telecom and Finance streams at the E3 pay scale.

A joint letter submitted to the CMD BSNL, demanding immediate withdrawal of the notification and highlighting the widespread resentment among serving executives. Copy<<<>>

The associations have expressed deep anguish and objection over the unilateral decision of the BSNL management to recruit SETs through an open lateral intake without consulting the recognised associations, in violation of the REA Rules 2014.

The Associations Strongly Objected and Pointed Out:

·       Complete Disregard for Internal Talent by BSNL Management: The SET recruitment ignores thousands of qualified and experienced executives already serving in BSNL who possess the same or higher qualifications and have 10–27 years of relevant experience.

·       Stagnation and Lack of Career Progression: Since inception of BSNL, executives recruited through competitive processes like GATE and internal upgradations have largely remained in the same grade for 8 to 27 years without meaningful promotions.

·       Demoralising the Existing Workforce: Bringing in fresh graduates at E3 pay scale without the required experience and placing them above serving JTOs/JAOs and other officers is seen as unjust and demotivating.

·       Ignoring Repeated Representations: This is not the first time such unilateral decisions have been made. Previous requests to prioritise internal promotions and fill key management roles through existing executives have gone unheeded.

·       Biased HR practices: The association highlights past examples such as the discriminatory handling of DR DGM recruitment, where similarly placed BSNL executives were sidelined in favour of external entrants.

·       Deliberate Neglection of Internal Talent: Direct recruitment of freshers at higher level than JTO/JAO, while ignoring deserving internal talent and unresolved HR/financial grievances, is unjust, erodes executive trust, and impairs organizational effectiveness.

·       There is huge unrest in BSNL executives because of such unilateral actions by BSNL and it will be difficult to control the emotions of executives if management continues to deny the rightful dues and continues to engage in such unilateral actions. In such scenario, the responsibility of any industrial unrest will lie solely on Management.

Associations Demand :

·       Immediate withdrawal of the SET recruitment notification and stop any lateral entry in BSNL as being followed in other PSUs.

·       If any fresh recruitment is to be done then the same should be done in the cadres of JEs and JTOs/JAOs who are backbone of the BSNL. We also demand that instead of having bulk recruitment at JTO/JAOs, BSNL should recruit JTOs/JAOs/JEs every year and it should be regular yearly process.

·       If required, for filling vacant post of GM/PGM level in BSNL, a separate methodology and process may be defined to fill these posts from all the serving executives of BSNL.

·       Stop pick and choose applicability of Rules in BSNL and decide on applicability of rules to BSNL i.e. rules applicable to PSU or rules applicable to Government Services and please apply these rules uniformly for resolution of all issues of BSNL

·       Immediate action for Promotions of BSNL executives waiting for their first promotion. All the executives who have completed the residency in the grade must be extended promotions to the next level without any delay as jointly submitted by us.

·       Discuss the issue of shortage of Officers required at BSNL Managerial Position and to frame a methodology to fill vacant posts as followed in PSUs. 

·       Immediate resolution of the long-pending financial issues of serving BSNL Executives including implementation of 3^rd PRC, extension of E2 scales for JTO/JAO Equivalent, 30 Percent Contribution to Superannuation Benefits, Revision in TA/DA/ Transport allowances, restoration of previous Medical Reimbursement Limits.

·       To Restore the other perks and allowances of serving executives which are presently freezed by quoting financial condition of BSNL should be immediately released.

·       As the freeze on external recruitment is removed, immediate start of Compassionate Ground Appointment with consideration of the dependents of all the executives who left for their heavenly abode in all these years.

   To act in the best interests of both the Executives and the organization.

Special Message in different regional languages by Respected Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Honourable Minister of Communications & DoNER Government of India addressed to employees of DoT and all PSUs in Telecom sector. Message<<<>>

AGM SEA BSNL CO issued Direct relieving of AOs/CAOs under Inter Circle Transfers through ERP/SAP w.e.f. 31/10/2025 as these executives are not relieved by their controlling officers as instructed by SEA Cell.  Copy<<<>>

Shri. Sunil Gupta, Circle President, SNEA CNTxN Delhi  Circle retires on superannuation with highly successful services in DoT/BSNL: Shri Sunil Gupta, Executive Engineer Electrical, CNTxN New Delhi and President SNEA CNTxN Delhi Circle retires on Superannuation after highly successful 37 Years and 11 Months of Glorious Service in DoT/BSNL.

On completion Diploma in Electrical Engineering and Post Diploma in Applied Electronics and Microwave Technology from Pusa Polytechnic, New Delhi, Shri Sunil Gupta joined his illustrious career in the DoT as JE on 07/12/1987. He further strengthened his technical knowledge by completing AMIE (Electrical), showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

With promotions from JE to JTO/SDE, now Shri. Sunil Gupta, is rending his services as Executive Engineer Electrical is one of the most co-operative, dedicated, disciplined, and excellent visionary officers of BSNL.  

During his remarkable career span of nearly four decades, Shri Sunil Gupta served in multiple locations including Delhi, Rewari, and Noida UP West. He made outstanding contributions in the field of Electrical Engineering, Project Execution, and Infrastructure Development in BSNL. His deep understanding of technical systems, leadership in handling critical installations, and commitment to excellence earned him immense respect among his peers and subordinates. His ability to balance fieldwork, administrative duties, and association responsibilities with precision and dedication is truly commendable and highly appreciated by all.

Shri Sunil Gupta is known for his meticulous planning, timely execution, and innovative approach to problem solving qualities & capabilities that made him a most dependent pillar of BSNL.

Apart from his professional duties, Shri Sunil Gupta devoted himself passionately to Association activities under the banner of SNEA.

Shri Sunil Gupta served association in different capacities and rendered devoted services as President, SNEA Delhi Circle. He is a versatile and fully devoted leader of SNEA who has rendered exemplary and distinguished service for about four decades. He is a true example of hard work, determination, self-made success with high human Values. He played a pivotal role in uniting executives, resolving organizational issues, and representing concerns and issues of members  before the higher management and got it resolved. His calm demeanor, rational decision-making and transparent approach made him one of the most respected leaders of SNEA. Under his leadership, SNEA Delhi Circle witnessed remarkable progress in member coordination, grievance resolution, and organizational harmony. He has been instrumental in the success story of SNEA membership in 3^rd MV.

Shri Sunil Gupta always upheld the principles of unity, fairness, and service to the fraternity, reflecting the true spirit of the leader of the Association. His name will be remembered for his ethical leadership, compassion for colleagues, and the inspiration he provided to younger generations of executives.

SNEA CHQ recognises devoted services of Shri Sunil Gupta, as committed leader of SNEA which he rendered to the Executives in BSNL in general and Members of SNEA in particular.

Sensing this great occasion, Shri Sunil Gupta ji was given grand farewell and was felicitated by SNEA NTR Delhi and SNEA CHQ in two separate functions arranged at Delhi. NTR Delhi <<<>>  SNEA CHQ <<<>>

On this great occasion, on behalf of thousands of the members and leaders of SNEA all over India, SNEA CHQ congratulate Shri Sunil Gupta, Circle President SNEA CNTXN Delhi Circle for successfully completing such long and spotless services in DoT/BSNL and conveys best wishes for his very Healthy, Wealthy and long retired life. 

AGM Rectt BSNL CO issued notification for Direct Recruitment  of freshers for  SET (Senior Executive Trainee) Telecom & Finance wings  through written Competitive Examination. Copy<<<>>

This is one more one sided action by the BSNL management without understanding feelings and practical requirements of BSNL.

This notification is issued without any consultation of Recognised Majority Association and by neglecting stand conveyed by SNEA for no outside recruitment by lateral entry above JTO/JAO. 

Though it is projected that these executives will be part of Management replacing the ITS Officers on deputation in BSNL, from the past experience it is crystal clear that intent of Management was not and it not clear.

Earlier MT recruitment process was struck up in court cases and once court cases are cleared to better extent, Management has modified MTRR before joining of selected executives to extent that these MTs will never reach to the position of GMs or for which they were specially recruited.

Now this SET is revised version of MTs and if the MTs who will be senior to SET will not able to reach this position , how this SET will reach this position as being projected by Management is real question to be answered. 

It is unfortunate that in the last 25 years of formation of BSNL, no action has been taken by BSNL Management and administrative Ministry DoT for having its own Management, but efforts were always done for allowing deputation of ITS Officers against all orders and even with undertaking submitted in court cases by DoT not to depute any ITS officer to BSNL after 2014.

The option chosen by present BSNL management by issuing one sided SET notification, is nothing but putting salt on wounds of thousands of highly qualified and experienced Executives in BSNL who are compelled for working on degraded pay scales for years together.

In BSNL JTOs are recruited through GATE Entrance Examination  and JAOs are recruited with higher Educational qualifications CA/ M. Com and their pay scales are reduced from E1A to E1 and now this SET recruitment is proposed at E3 pay scales all fresher with Engineering Graduation are eligible for the same and Experienced BSNL Executives with same or higher educational qualification are denied this opportunity.

For whatever may be the reason, but Management is of the opinion and projecting that these 97 Fresh SETs will change the fate and future of BSNL which is not possible for existing 29000 Executives serving in the BSNL.

Thus management is indirectly or directly doubting the capabilities and strength of serving BSNL Executives, and this is not a good sign for bright future of the BSNL as desired by Respected MoSC, Respected MoC and Honourable Prime Minister of India.  

SNEA is taking up this issue for stopping the outsider recruitment of SET with lateral entry above the level of JTO/JAO and we will fight for justice to the serving executives. 

Enhancement in Celling on Gratuity Payment for BSNL Recruited Executives: Recently DoP&PW has cleared that decision on enhancement of upper limit for Gratuity is to be taken by concerned PSUs/administrative Ministry and DPE has already issued instructions that celling on Gratuity will enhance by 25% if IDA rises by 50% and Gratuity limit will enhance from Rs 20 Lakhs to Rs 25 Lakhs for BSNL recruited Executives.  For DoT recruited executives the Gratuity limit has been already enhanced from Rs 20 Lakhs to Rs 25 Lakhs.  SNEA has already taken up matter with all concerned including DPE through NCOA and formal orders for the same are expected shortly.  DPE <<<>>   DoP&PW <<<>>

6.1% Increase in IDA from July 25 to Oct 25: Dy Secretary DPE issued orders for increase from 227.1% in July 2025 to 233.2% in Oct 2025 with total 6.1% increase IDA w.e.f. 01/10/2025.  Copy<<<>>

Though, IDA increased from 01/10/2025, but the same is not added Oct 2025 salary as before issue of this order by DPE, the October Month salary was disbursed by BSNL to concerned banks, and now the same will be added in next as month Salary but w.e.f. 01/10/2025. 

NCOA meetings with different officers in DPE: A delegation of NCOA consisting Shri V. K. Tomar, Chairman NCOA/GS MEA, Shri M. S. Adasul, President NCOA/GS SNEA and Shri Arvind Pal Dahiya, Joint Secretary Central SNEA CHQ had meetings with the officers of the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) on 22/10/2025.

NCOA leaders had discussions on orders for IDA Revision, Gratuity Enhancement, constitution of 4^th PRC, issues related to implementation of 3^rd PRC in left out PSUs including BSNL and left out issues of 2^nd PRC in BSNL.

During the meeting, the issue of the IDA revision circular was raised. The Deputy Secretary informed that the case has already been submitted to higher authorities and is presently awaiting approval from the Secretary (DPE). He also added that efforts are being made for single consolidated order for IDA enhancement instead of separate orders being issued for Pay Scales approved in 1987, 1997, 2007 and 2017 and orders will be issued shortly.

The issue of gratuity enhancement from Rs. 20 lakhs to Rs. 25 lakhs was also discussed. NCOA urged DPE to issue a specific Office Memorandum (OM) in this regard, as the 50% IDA level will be achieved after the October quarter revision. The Deputy Secretary clarified that the provision for gratuity enhancement is already covered in DPE’s OM dated 03/08/2017, which clearly states that the gratuity ceiling shall be increased from Rs. 20 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs when IDA crosses the 50% mark. Therefore, no fresh order is required, and CPSEs can act on their own in accordance with the said OM.

Subsequently, the NCOA representatives also met the Joint Secretary/Economic Advisor, who informed that the delay in issuing the IDA revision order occurred because the practice of issuing separate orders for 1997, 2007, and 2017 IDA patterns is being discontinued. Instead, a comprehensive order covering all cases is being prepared. The Joint Secretary assured that efforts are being made to issue the orders by next week.

The representatives also held discussions regarding the implementation of the 3rd PRC in loss-making CPSEs and the constitution of the 4th PRC. The role of NCOA during previous PRC processes was elaborated upon, after which the Joint Secretary requested NCOA to provide certain information and supporting documents related to the constitution of the 4th PRC by the next day.

On 23/10/2025, delegation of NCOA consisting Shri V. K. Tomar, Chairman NCOA/GS MEA, Shri M. S. Adasul, President NCOA/GS SNEA, Shri. N. K. Banchhor, Working President NCOA and Shri Satyavir Singh AGS MEA, had second round of discussions with Joint Secretary, DPE for a detailed submission on happening in 3^rd PRC, constitution of 4^th PRC, the role of NCOA in the upcoming 4^th PRC process, issues related to implementation of 3^rd PRC in left out PSUs including BSNL and left out issues of 2^nd PRC in BSNL etc.  

The Joint Secretary conveyed that immediately after the notification of the 8^th Central Pay Commission (CPC), the process for constitution of the 4th PRC would be initiated.

During the meeting, NCOA once again raised the issue of gratuity enhancement for loss-making CPSEs that have not yet implemented the 3rd PRC, emphasizing that gratuity entitlement should not be linked to pay revision. NCOA requested DPE to consider issuing a separate order to extend the gratuity ceiling enhancement to Rs 25 lakhs for all CPSEs, irrespective of PRC implementation.

The Joint Secretary was principally convinced by with submission by NCOA and requested NCOA to submit a documented proposal suggesting a feasible modification to the existing orders. NCOA will shortly provide the necessary documentation and justification in this regard.

On our request to review affordability clause in 3^rd PRC and remove in from 4^th PRC, it was informed to represent case after constitution of 4^th PRC and issues will be taken care accordingly.

On 3^rd PRC Implementation in BSNL, it was informed that already DPE has conveyed to DoT for further course of action for taking up cabinet approval for waiver of affordability clause and action if any, is to be taken by DoT. On left out issues of 3^rd PRC also required clarifications are issued by DPE and final call is to be taken by DoT.
On Hardship allowances we have informed that for Steel, Power, Fertilizer, chemical & other hazardous PSUs, are not considered for Hardship allowances in 3rd PRC & requested for its correction in 4th PRC, On Incremental PRP we submitted that Current Financial year Profit Vs Previous Financial year Profit mentioned in 2nd Pay Revision order for Incremental PRP to be corrected in 4th PRC as instead of Profit Vs Profit it should be PBT Vs PBT for Incremental PRP. All these requests were given patience hearing and  responded positively. 

Changes in Time Frame for withdrawal of Voluntary Retirement Application: In the recent past it has been observed that some Executives are applying for Voluntary Retirement due to personal reasons and later they feel it appropriate to withdraw VR application and apply for withdrawal also.

In this regard, it is to inform that withdrawal of VR application is possible well in advance and if withdrawal application is submitted 15 days before the due VR date. The application for withdrawal of VR is rejected if it is submitted in a period less than 15 days of VR date. Pers section has taken this stand as per the Central Civil Service (Pension) Rules 2021 issued by DoP&PW even though this order is not endorsed by DoT/ BSNL. Copy<<<>> 

Earlier, withdrawal of VR application was possible even last date of VR and before the order for acceptance of VR is handed over to the applicant and the same is now changed as above and now request for withdrawal of VR is possible if request is submitted before 15 days of VR date and not at later stage 

In recent past incidents have been noticed that some requests for withdrawal of VR were received for a period less than 15 days of VR date and in all such cases such requests were rejected and these executives cannot withdraw the VR application and have to forcefully accept the VR. This can be avoided by submission of VR withdrawal request as per revised guidelines i.e. well before 15 days of last date of VR

In view of above SNEA appeals to all the executives to avoid Voluntary Retirement and if in unavoidable Circumstances and compulsions if he/she has to apply for Voluntary Retirement then to take note the changes in guidelines for the last date for withdrawal of Voluntary Retirement and act accordingly to avoid any inconvenience at last moment due to rejection of application of VR just for reason that it is not submitted in time.  

AGM Pers BSNL CO writes to all Circle Heads regarding Proper Scrutiny and Submission of Applications for Deputation/ Direct Recruitment. Copy<<<>>

Message on the occasion of Vigilance Awareness Week 2025 being observed from 27/10/2025 to 02/11/2025. CMD BSNL <<<>>      CVO BSNL <<<>>

SNEA CHQ writes Respected Jyotiraditya Scindia ji, Honourable Minister of Communications & DoNER, Government of India submitting urgent request for abolition of SMS Interconnection Usage Charges (IUC), a matter of great concern impacting the level playing field and a danger for mission of GoI for revival of BSNL and saving hard earned money by BSNL. Copy<<<>>

SNEA CHQ writes Respected Jyotiraditya Scindia ji, Honourable Minister of Communications & DoNER, Government of India conveying thanks and gratitude for keen monitoring of BSNL activities up to Circle/BA level and submitting request to give strength to Circle Heads of BSNL to perform better by delegating minimum required powers for the expected level of performance.Copy<<<>>

Deepawali Greetings  by  Shri. A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD, BSNL to BSNL family.  Copy <<<>>

DGM Estt BSNL CO writes to General Secretaries of Recognized Associations and Unions of BSNL seeking Opinion /Input on proposal for  introduction of National Pension System (NPS) in respect of BSNL recruited employees in lieu of existing Superannuation Pension Fund invested with LIC of India.  Copy<<<>>

This input/opinion will be analysed by the Committee constituted to decide the proposal received from LIC Pension Fund and HDFC Pension Fund.

 LICPF <<<>>                                       HDFCPF<<<>>   

 NPS For BSNL <<<>>                All ABOUT NPS <<<>>

SNEA CHQ appeals all CS/DS and activist of SNEA to go through these proposal and share their suggestions/opinion or suitable alternative proposal for introduction of NPS (National Pension System) in respect of BSNL recruited employees in lieu of existing Superannuation Pension Fund presently invested with LIC of India. The details may be please shared with  Shri Arvind Pal Dahiya, JSC SNEA CHQ (Mob 9416051919) latest by 21/10/2025 so that we can  submit it to Estt Cell on given date i.e. 22/10/2025. 

BSNL Diwali Bonanza: On this auspicious occasion of Diwali Shri. A. Robert J. Ravi, CMD, BSNL announces a range of exciting offers and customer-centric initiatives for BSNL users.  VIDEO <<<>>

As per this  BSNL Diwali Bonanza offer, 10 Customers will be awarded Silver Coins through lucky draw on recharge of mobile from 18/10/2025 to 20/10/2025,  Special Corporate Offer with 10 % discount for corporate Customers booking 10 Nobile connections and One FTTH Connection, 2.5% Discount on Recharge of Family and Friend,  5% discount on Recharge done on STV 485 and 1999.  Copy<<<>>  

The festive offer will be available from 15/10/2025 to 15/11/2025.

This offer  includes unlimited voice calls, 2 GB of high-speed data per day, 100 SMS per day, and a free SIM card.

BSNL is offering 4G Mobile services at a token charge of Rs One for a period of one month to new customers and it gives customers a proud opportunity to experience indigenously developed 4G network of BSNL. 

BSNL announces Annual Mobile Recharge Plan exclusively for Senior Citizens of India with just Rs 1812 with unlimited calling and 2 GB Data per day with free SIM Card and free six monthly BiTV Premium National Pack. Copy<<<>>