We are pleased to share that the General Secretaries and CHQ office bearers of BSNLEU, NFTE, SNEA, AIGETOA, BTEU, SEWA, and AIBSNLEA warmly welcomed our new CMD, Shri Robert Jerard Ravi. During the meeting, Mr. Ravi emphasised BSNL’s role in servicing MTNL areas, particularly in Mumbai and Delhi, which generate the highest revenue. He set an ambitious target of capturing a 25% market share and ensuring company viability by March, addressing HR and 3rd PRC issues. Union representatives expressed full support but stressed the importance of resolving pending HR issues including 3^rd PRC. Mr. Ravi assured that Management is open to settling the 3^rd PRC and related issues. Under Mr. Ravi's leadership, we are confident that BSNL will reach new heights. Com. Animesh Mitra, President and Com. John Verghese, Acting General Secretary, represented BSNLEU.

The DPE has issued order for IDA increase w.e.f 01-07-2024. As already informed by BSNLEU, the new IDA rate payable w.e.f 01-07-2024 is 217.8%. Copy of the DPE letter is enclosed for the information of the comrades.

The Circle Executive Committee meeting of NE-I was held online on 20-07-2024. Com. M.V. Mawkhiew, Circle Vice President, presided over the meeting. Com. Shivjee Ray, Circle Secretary, welcomed everyone and presented the report on activities. Com. John Verghese, Acting General Secretary, addressed the meeting and discussed several important current issues, including:

• Wage Revision
• New Promotion Policy
• Revival of BSNL
• Issues related to Rule-8 of DR JEs

Members deliberated on various issues such as the 3rd PRC, IDA freezing during the COVID period, stagnation, and the 16th February Strike. After thorough discussion, it was unanimously decided to hold the next Circle Conference jointly with NE-I, NE-II, and Assam Circle.

To protect the interests of the Executives and Non-Executives working in BSNL, the leaders of the recognised Unions / Associations i.e., BSNLEU, NFTE BSNL, SNEA, AIGETOA, and who were part of official negotiations, have identified a superior GHI Policy option. This comes in response to the high premium rates of the BSNL-approved GHI policy from M/s Oriental Insurance Company, which also includes stringent conditions.

Today, the 20.07.2024, newly appointed CMD BSNL, Shri Ravi A Robert Jerald, addressed the Chennai Telephones Circle and Tamil Nadu Circle officers at Anna Road Inspiration Hall, Chennai. He then met with union representatives to receive a memorandum. On behalf of BSNLEU, Com. S. Basha, Circle President and Com. A. Ruban Vijayakumar, Circle Organising Secretary, submitted a memorandum requesting 4G towers for Chennai, free calls for serving and retired employees, and a problem-free Sanchar Aadhaar app.

It has come to our attention that, unlike BSNL, all other telecom operators provide seamless SIM replacement services on an all-India basis. For example, an Airtel customer from Odisha can replace a damaged or lost SIM anywhere in Maharashtra. In contrast, a BSNL customer from Andhra Pradesh cannot replace their SIM in Uttar Pradesh. Moreover, all private operators offer incoming SMS in international roaming without any additional subscription for their prepaid services. Unfortunately, BSNL customers need to subscribe to this service separately. These disparities put BSNL at a significant disadvantage compared to private operators. To remain competitive and meet customer expectations, it is crucial for BSNL to offer nationwide SIM replacement and free incoming SMS during international roaming for prepaid customers.

Com. S. Rajagopal, Junior Engineer, Tirunelveli, retired on superannuation on 30.06.2024. He joined the Department of Telecommunications as a Casual Mazdoor in 1983, was regularized as RM in 1993, and later promoted to TT and JE. Currently, he serves as the Circle Organising Secretary of BSNLEU, Tamil Nadu Circle, and the District Secretary of TNTCWU, Tirunelveli SSA. On his retirement, he generously donated Rs.5,000/- to the CHQ. The CHQ extends its best wishes for a happy and peaceful retired life to Com. S. Rajagopal.

We are writing to highlight critical issues in the BSNL Sanchar Aadhaar app, causing significant inconvenience to our users and adversely impacting our service delivery, including the porting process. Given the app's importance in our digital strategy and customer service operations, it is imperative these issues are resolved promptly. We have received numerous complaints regarding app crashes, slow performance, and difficulties accessing key features, all hampering our efficiency and customer satisfaction. We request your esteemed office to intervene and direct the concerned vendor to rectify these issues immediately. A prompt resolution is essential to ensure seamless functionality and restore user confidence.