Circular 30/VIII/2025

10.08.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES /AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

5 DAY BANKING – IT IS NOW OR NEVER.

PLI AKIN TO EXECUTIVES TO THE ENTIRE WORKFORCE IN THE INDUSTRY.

DISINVESTMENT PROCESS IS IN FAST FORWARD MODE.

PREPARE FOR A LONGDRAWN STRUGGLE.

LOOKING BACK: On 5 days banking, it was our Organisation, visualized the fast developments taking place in the industry due to alternative delivery channels occupying the centre stage of Banking, resolved in Feb 2006 that the regulated working hours and 5 day banking should be secured for officers’ fraternity.

2.         It took 9 years and 7 months to realise the same partially as a part of 7^th Joint Note on officers’ wage revision, which was signed on 27.05.2015. The effective date of implementation was from 1.09.2015. The officers’ organisations have consistently took it up with IBA. In the discussion held on 28.02.2023, there was broad understandings with the unions in general and with workmen unions in particular that the workings hours will be enhanced between 42 to 45 minutes to secure the remaining Saturdays as holidays. It was brought to our notice, through social platforms that the DFS MOF received the recommendations in the 3^rd week of November 2023. On 7^th December 2023, there was a commitment to secure the same within specific time period by IBA, in the MOU executed by IBA with Associations/Unions.

3.         The then Secretary, DFS, MOF, Shri. Vivek Joshi, on 12^th August 2024, in an interview appeared in print media, stated that other stake holders need to be consulted as the Saturdays are utilized by them for their requirements. In the recent Strike Call given by unions, it was revealed that on 16^th June 2025,CLC (Central) has written to DFS MOF to consider the demands raised. However, the reply given in the Parliament is contrary to the expectation of all.  The said communication is reproduced overleaf and the same is self- explanatory.

4.         DISINVESTMENT OF IDBI/PUBLIC SECTOR BANKS:On 11^th August 2025, the workforce in IDBI will be observing a stay-out strike throughout the country, as the exercise of disinvestment is in fast forward mode, which may facilitate the entry of foreign directed investment to sneak into the banking Industry. Already, in two private banks, institutions have acquired stake in the equity.

5.         PLI : We have already circulated the communication addressed to DFS MOF in this regard reiterating that enhancement of PLI akin to executives should be extended to entire workforce.

HENCE IT IS NOW OR NEVER

Prepare for a struggle to halt intrusion of FDI in Banking and also to secure the 5 days banking.

Yours comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF FINANCE

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES

LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 1237

ANSWERED ON MONDAY, 28 JULY, 2025 / 6 SRAVANA, 1947 (SAKA)

PROPOSAL OF 5-DAY WEEK FOR BANKS

1237.  SHRI K C VENUGOPAL:

Will the Minister of FINANCE be pleased to state:

(a) the action taken by the Government on the IBA proposal for a 5-day banking week;

(b) whether the Government is considering to implement the proposal and if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether it is a fact that the proposal is pending due to shortage of banking staff in the public sector banks;

(d) if so, the steps taken by the Government to address the shortage of staff in banks; and

(e) whether the Government has any plans for the roll out of the newly proposed 5-day banking week and if so, the timeline fixed for the same?

ANSWER

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCE (SHRI PANKAJ CHAUDHARY)

(a) to (e): Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has submitted a proposal to declare all Saturdays as banking holiday. In regard to the Saturdays being public holiday, subsequent to 10th Bipartite settlement/ 7th Joint note signed between IBA and Workmen Unions/Officer Associations, Government, in exercise of powers  conferred  by  section  25  of  the  Negotiable  Instruments  Act,  1881,  vide  notification  dated 20.8.2015, had declared the second and the fourth Saturdays of every month as public holiday for banks in India.

Further, Public Sector Banks (PSBs) are board governed commercial entities. The requirement of manpower in each PSB is determined by the respective PSB keeping in view various factors which include, inter-alia, business requirement, spread of activities, superannuation and other unplanned exits. Appointment of officers and staff is done accordingly by the PSBs and it varies from year to year based on their requirements.

As per inputs received from PSBs, as on 31.03.2025, 96% staff are in position against their business  requirement.   The  small  proportion  of  gap  is  attributable   to  attrition  on  account  of superannuation and other usual factors including unplanned exits.

Circular 29/VIII/2025

08.08.2025.

TO:

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

WORKFORCE IN IDBI  OBSERVE

ONE DAY STAY OUT STRIKE

ON 11.08.2025.

Our organization had assessed the developments in the Financial Sector in general and Banking in particular pertaining to the implementation of the policy directives of the present Government at the Centre. Accordingly, in the month of March 2022, when the plan of selling the equity of IDBI to private players was contemplated, rightly, we, decided to observe two days strike on 30^th and 31st March 2022 throughout the country along with workmen organisations synchronizing with CTU’s Strike.

2.         The United Forum of IDBI Officers’ and Employees’ Association, under the leadership of Com.A.V.VithalKoteswaraRao, DGS, AIBOA and General Secretary AIIDBIOA along with workmen representatives had carried out organizational actions continuously, adhering to the all norms and forms. In pursuance of the Chandigarh Conference decision, our organization along with a shareholder of IDBI viz: Com. Vishwas Utagi, (former Secretary of AIBEA) preferred a legal intervention in the Hon’ble High Court of Mumbai in January 2023 itself. As there was anitch confronted by the authorities,the process of disinvestment exercise got delayed.The stage was set in October 2022 itself, as per decision of DIPAM.The case which was already filed by our organization is listed for hearing on the date of the strike ie.11.08.2025.

3.         The Institution which is earning profit for the past five years and provided fully for the bad loans is in the process of sale, as per the print media coverage time and again. The need of the hour is to repulse back the steps unleashed by the Government and halt the whole process, with all strength at our command, lest, the next dose of disinvestment will also be on fast forward mode by the Government and SEBI in five Public Sector Banks.

We call upon our State committees and affiliated Units to extend total support to the programof actions chalked by the United Forum of IDBI Officers and Employees Association and make the strike in IDBI on 11.08.2025 a massive success.

Yours Comradely.

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.28/VIII/2025

07.08.2025.

TO:

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

ENHANCEMENT THE QUANTUM OF PLI AKIN

TO EXECUTIVES AND WHOLE TIME DIRECTORS.

As you are aware that the above issue was listed in our Strike notice dated 4^th March 2025 as one of the demands, while opposing the moves of Privatisation of IDBI and other Public Sectors. Except PNB (Up to Scale III), no other bank has released the PLI as per the existing understanding with the Officers ’Organisations. As the matter is hanging on fire and no improvement is visible to benefit 89.42% officers in our Industry, we have taken up with DFS and also marked a copy to CLC(Central) on 29^th July 2025 itself. The communication is reproduced hereunder for the benefit of the fraternity.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Text of our  letter No. IBA:BKS:174:2025 dated 29.07.2025 addressed to the Secretary, DFS, Ministry of Finance. Govt. of India, New Delhi,29.07.2025.

Sir,

Re:      Performance linked incentive for Whole-Time Directors and

            Senior Executives    of Public Sector Banks – Revised Scheme.

Ref:  1.    Department Notification eF.No. 15/06/2024 –BO.I dated 19^thNovember                   2024.

           2.      Our letter No: IBA:BKS:213:2024 dated 02.12.2024.

           3.   Our Strike Notice dated 04.03.2025 Served on The Chairman, IBA,  Mumbai and also to                The CLC             (Central) Ministry of Labour                                and Employment, Government of India, New Delhi.

We draw your kind attention to our letter dated 2.12.2024 addressed to you, immediately after receipt of the departmental notification dated 19.11.2024 informing the revised incentive scheme right from Scale IV up-to the EDs and MDs of the Public Sector Banks.

2.         We have already submitted that the majority of the Officers, who are the brand ambassadors of the individual Banks have been given a raw deal  ie Scale I to III (89.42%) is hardly eligible to draw between 5 days and 15 days of Basic Pay + DA depending upon profit earned by the particular bank, whereas the Scale IV to Scale VIII (10.57%) AND Whole time directors of the individual banks are to get 255 days to 365 days of Basic Pay.

3.         In this regard, we draw your kind attention to the department office memorandum F.No.4/9/1/2014-IR dated 13^th January 2015, in which it was categorically conveyed by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to the Chief Executives of the Public Sector Banks and Financial Institutions (PSBs/FIs) in clear terms that the Government will not interfere in the working of the Banks/FIs. The issuance of the Office memorandum was aftereffect of the GyanSangam meeting held at Pune on 2^nd and 3^rd Jan 2015.

4.         The officers from Scale I to III working in the Branches and administrative offices have to bear the brunt of the work pressure, unwarranted abuses from the customers as well as from the higher authorities for securing the business for the Bank. In spite of the work pressure faced at various levels, the workforce in the Banking Industry have stood the test of times and discharged challenges posed to meet the directions of the Government of India in the matter of Demonetization, serving the people during Global Pandemic COVID-19  and implementing various schemes launched by the Government from time to time. As the saying goes “ The proof of the pudding is in eating ” Our drive and achievement under the Financial Inclusion scheme by the Public Sector Banks speak for itself, as per the information provided in the department’s web-portal.

5.         In the strike notice served by our organization, we have demanded for enhancement of quantum of PLI akin to the Executives and Whole time Directors. We have been given to understand that Punjab National Bank has released the PLI up-to Scale III for the financial year ended 31.03.2025 based on the industry level understandings arrived at between officers’ organisations and IBA on 11.11.2020at Mumbai.

6.         It is not out of place to mention that State Bank of India considered incentives to the workforce right from Clerical up-to Top Executive Grade Scale I and II. The break up details are furnished hereunder for your ready reference in a tabular form :

7.         We have been also given to understand that based on the request made by the Chief Labour Commissioner vide his letter addressed to you to put on hold the release of the PLI to the workforce in Public Sector Banks. Punjab National Bank has already credited the PLI of 14 days to all staff up-to Scale III officers, in spite of the restraint directions.

We from AIBOA would reiterate that the enhancement of the incentive proportionately up-to Scale III officers thereby the feeling discrimination is not felt/experienced by the overwhelming majority of the Officers in the Public Sector Banks.

An early decision from your end to keep the balance in even kneel, would go a long way, to arrest the degree of demotivation, which has already set in the minds of the officers of the Bank.

Yours faithfully,

/sd/ /S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

CC TO:

Chief Labour Commissioner [Central], Ministry of Labour Employment, Government of India, New Delhi

This has reference to your letter No. 21[17]2025-IR dated 27.03.2025 addressed to Chairman, IBA, Mumbai and copy marked to PPS to Secretary, DFS, Ministry of Finance, New Delhi.

Circular No.27/VIII/2025

31.07.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/ AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

CLARION CALL OF

AIIDBIOA

FOR HALTING THE DISINVESTMENT IN IDBI.

ALL INDIA STAY OUT STRIKE ON 11.08.2025.

Our affiliate, All India IDBI Officers' Association, is continuously persuading the authorities at all levels not to resort to disinvestment of the equity in IDBI Bank Ltd for a pretty long time. It was our organization, which gave a call in March 2022, as per Central Committee decision held at Kerala, synchronizing with the CTUs call for the strike. We had formulated the issues having telescopic approach and opposed the moves of selling the stakes in IDBI to private players as well as of Public Sector Banks. It is relevant to place it on record, that it was only officers’ organization observed the Strike along with workmen associations operating in the industry at the end of March 2022.

2.         The IDBI, which was established as a Developmental Financial Institution (DFI)in 1964,underwent various changes in its form and finally turned out to be a universal Bank. It absorbed IDBI Bank ltd and subsequently the United Western Bank Ltd in 2006 headquarters at Satara. The bank which was under the audit control of CAG was exempted due to the changes in its equity character. The bad loans accumulated over a period 3 decades had a dent on its profitability.  The present Government’s representative handling the Ministry of Finance, categorically assured that the Government would maintain the PUBLIC SECTOR CHARACTER OF IDBI, in the floor of the Parliament.

3.         It was in IDBI, a separate account was created to park all bad loans, thereby presenting a clean balance sheet during the tenure of the then Chairman Mr. M. Damodaran. As on to-day LIC holds the majority stake in the bank having 49.24% shareholding and GOI 45.48%.The Government at the center as per the recommendations of DIPAM is moving at a break neck speed to disinvest 60.72% of LIC + Government of India to fetch a sum of Rs 50,000 crores as classified in the Budget as misc. receipts. There are two foreign players and one Indian private sector Bank in the race. We are witnessing the foreign players are eagerly waiting to acquire the equity stake in the Financial Sector. Opening up our economy to Foreign Direct Investment is one of the priorities of the Government. The moves of Government should be stalled lest another experience of East India Company, who came to India for doing trading business and subsequently taken over the Governance of our Nation.

4.         IDBI Bank has been earning net profits for the last five years i.e.,            2020-21:Rs.1,359 cr., 2021-22:Rs.2,439 cr.; 2022-23:Rs.3,645 cr., 2023-24 : Rs.5,634 cr.And 2024-25:Rs.7,515 cr. because of the collective efforts of 20,000+ employees of IDBI Bank.  This shows the commitment and dedication of the employees of IDBI Bank towards organizational goals and growth path.

5.         Keeping the whole developments in mind, our affiliate along with the workmen organization under the banner of United Forum of IDBI Officers and Employees organizations have served the notice for an ALL INDIA STRIKE ON 11^th AUGUST 2025 (MONDAY) focusing the main issue of disinvestment besides other issues including recruitment of the workforce.

6.         We advise our state committees and affiliated units to participate in the programs chalked out by AIIDBIOA culminatingin the strike on 11.08.2025.

Onward march to the struggle against entry of foreign capital in IDBI Bank.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.26/VIII/2025

16^th July 2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

56^TH ANNIVERSARY OF BANK NATIONALISATION

BEWARE OF

INVASION OF FOREIGN CAPITAL INTO THE BANKING SYSTEM.

19^TH July 1969, was a watershed in the annals of the financial system of our Nation. The then Prime Minister of the Country took a bold step to initiate the process of mass banking through the process of nationalization of 14 banks and subsequently another 6 banks in April 1980. The said exercise caused a political turmoil too.

2.         The benefits accrued to the citizens of our country are countless during this period. A common man can enter the bank branches to avail the requirements according to his priority. Followed by this, in the year 1975, in order to benefit the rural masses, 196 Regional Rural Banks were established. As on today, when we look at the developments, there is a deep sense of caution to protect the Indian Banking System from the encroachment of private as well as foreign banks.

3.         In the recent past, one of the old Private Sector Banks established in a small town in the southern part of the country was taken over by a foreign bank having its Head Quarters at Singapore (Lakshmi Vilas Bank taken over by DBS).  The next one waiting for such a move may be IDBI Bank Ltd. The Government of India is contemplating to off-load it’s as well as the shares of LIC to the extent of 60% to a foreign investor.  The crisis ridden YES Bank which was bailed out by State Bank of India (13.19%)by contributing a substantial sum as an Equity is already on the radar of the Japan based SUMITOMO MITSUI BANKING CORPORATION. The other banks contributed for the bail-out operation are Axis Bank, Bandhan Bank, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDFC First Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank (6.81%).  The Japan based bank is approaching the controller of the Banking System for enhancement of the Equity participation to the extent of 26%.  The sanction is awaited.

4.         It is not out of place to mention here that the foreignshareholding in the Public Sector Banks is as follows:

Reserve Bank of India is examining the foreign shareholding norms including the voting rights.  As on date, voting rights in PSBs is capped at 10% of the shareholders other than the Central Government.  Financial Institution can take up to 15% stake.  Individuals and non-financial institutions are capped at 10%.  The move is aiming to open up foreign share-holding in Public Sector Banks to higher percentage.  It is pertinent to mention here that in private sector banks, 74% of foreign investments is permitted by RBI. 

5.         Prior to the strike on 9^th July 2025, a ministerial group held a meeting on 8^th July 2025 to finalize the appointment of Transaction Advisors to dilute Government Stakes in 5 public sector banks.  The move lays the ground work for off-loading stake in Bank of Maharashtra (86.46%), Indian Overseas Bank (96.38%), UCO Bank (95.39%), Central Bank of India (93.08%) and Punjab Sind Bank (98.25%).  Appointment of advisors is the most critical step in the dis-investment pipeline. They help to navigate legal complexities, structure tranches and prepare the offer document.  The present Government is in a fast-forward move to bring the reforms in the Banking sector and reducing its stake and likely to opt for a phased marked link approach.  It is a testing time for the Government to assess the market appetite for a smooth transition.  The said advisors will work with DIPAM and DFS to conduct due-diligence, structure the transaction and initiate the steps for dis-investment.  Merchant Bankers are being shortlisted to support the exercise.

AIBOA, having sensed the Government’s approach, projected the issues for the two days’ strike on March, 24& 25, 2025 opposing the process of disinvestment exercise in IDBI as well as the above 5 PSBs. Hence it is our duty to preserve, protect and promote public sector banks in the national interest as well as to provide employment opportunities to the educated youths. 

Hail the Nationalisation and halt the entry of foreign capital.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.25/VIII/2025

29.06.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

AIBOA EXTENDS FRATERNAL SUPPORT

TO THE STRIKESCHEDULED

ON 09.07.2025.

Our organization had already issued a communication extending the fraternal support to the unions intending to observe the Strike on 20.05.2025 opposing the steps initiated by the Government at the Centre, which are certainly affecting the workers of our Nation. The said strike was to synchronize with Strike Call given by the Central Trade Unions, as per the declaration of the National Convention held on 18^th March 2025 at New Delhi. However, the same could not be observed due to the carnage that took place on 22.04.2025 at Pahalgam.

2.         The strike scheduled on 20^th May 2025 was postponed to 09.07.2025 by the unions including in the financial sector.  There are issues confronting the entire workforce in the Industry VIZ: Disinvestment of Government Equity in IDBI, 5 Public Sector Banks, Issuance of IPO’s in RRBs, Recruitments in all cadres, work-life balance in the current environment, 5 days banking, outsourcing the permanent jobs of officers, up-dation of Pension, PLI-  enhancement akin to executives/board level appointees, Grade Pay to the Officers akin to SBI etc. Our organization deferred the strike based on the assurances by Government representative present in the conciliation proceedings held at New Delhi on 18^th and 21^st March 2025.

3.         After taking into consideration of the views of the office bearers and advisors of our organization, it has been decided to extend fraternal support to the unions observing the Strike on 09.07.2025. The State committees and affiliated Units should advise  our members not to attend the clerical job on 09.07.2025 in the branches.

4.         All India Gramin Bank Officers’ Association (AIGBOA) along with All India Gramin Employees' Association (AIGBEA) has served the Strike Notice on Government of India demanding the merger of RRBS with Sponsor Banks and opposing the disinvestment exercise through issuance of IPOs by sponsoring Banks. AIBOA extends fraternal support to the 9^th July 2025 Strike Call given by AIGBOA and AIGBEA.

All our State Committees and affiliated Units are advised to extend the required support to striking workforce on 09.07.2025.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular 24/VIII/2025

16.06.2025.

TO

 ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

UP-DATION OF BASIC PENSION.

The contentious issue of Up-dation of Pension is hanging on fire, though, introduction of Pension on the lines of RBI was signed on 29.10.1993 followed by the Gazette notification providing time to the employees as well as retirees in 1995. There exist the minutes of understandings dated 26.03.1994 held on record between the negotiating unions and IBA also in this regard.The deficit in the pension corpus was brought to null based on the actuarial calculations in the year April 2010, while extending the coverage to 3,30,000 ( Employees + retirees)

2.         Government of India vide its notification dated 05.03.2019,revised the Pension for retirees of RBI and subsequently enhanced the same in 2023 i.e. merger upto 6352 points of DA.AIBOA, alongwith other three officers’ Organisations, arrived at an understanding on 04.01.2021 to arrive at the impact analysis on the balance sheet of the Banks, in which IBA had responded that an actuary was appointed.

3.         The first Central Committee Meeting held in September 2023 at Mumbai, decided to pursue the issue of Up-dation of Pension including through judicial intervention. Accordingly, AIBOA filed the case in the Apex Court, which came up for hearing before Hon’ble Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Shri J. B. Pardiwala, and ShriManoj Mishra  on 14.08.2024, when we were holding the 1st Com.P.K.Menon Memorial Lecture at Kurukshetra University. The apex court has directed us to take up the same in the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay. Accordingly, our Central Office, was actively pursuing the same with our legal counsels.

4.         The Writ Petition No 6366/2025 filed by our organization came up for hearing before the Hon’bleJudges Shri M.S. Karnik and Shri. N.R.Borkar to-day and the court has directed to issue the notices to all respondents and the next date of hearing was fixed on 29.07.2025. Our legal counsels had served notice to all respondents earlier itself intimating the date of hearing too, on Friday, the 13^th June 2025 itself.

5.         AIBOA is taking up the matter with all seriousness to secure the up-dation of Pension to benefit the retirees who had burnt their life in their youthful days to build a strong public sector banking system.

We shall post you with the developments from time to time.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No. 23/VIII/2025

15.06.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

12^th REMEMBRANCE DAY OF COM.RJS.

DOWN MEMORY LANE:

15^th June 2013, the day we lost one of the jewels of the trade union movement, at Chennai, the day he became the immortal along-with other illustrious leaders of the bank employees’ movement. As a mark of respect, the day which was fixed for the celebrations of TNBEF stood postponed.  All roads led to Tiruvengadam Street, Adyar, to pay the last respects to one of the towering personalities in the trade union in general and Bank trade union in particular. The then Members of Parliament were present in the final journey of the Noble Son of Mother India, who were voicing in support of the voiceless workers in the temple of democracy.

2.         In his career as a bank officer, he was a perfectionist at the work. In his contribution to strengthen the workmen trade union movement in the Bank he served, he was the bridge between the North and the South leadership, thereby consolidated the strength with deep conviction. In his foresightedness, he was the one, who worked relentlessly with late Com. P.K. Menon, the founder General Secretary of AIBOA, to convince other past immortals to accept “2” benefits are better than the “3” benefits available in one of the premier Bank. Thus, he stood with firmness to get the benefit of “Cradle to Grave”, the name he christened to the Pension Scheme secured by the two unions only. Apart from the above, the controversial debate was centering around the grant ofone Increment for introduction of Technology in the Banks,he secured the samesingle handedly by declaring an independent strike by AIBOA, which was averted by the  then Personnel Adviser of IBA, a towering personality at that pointof time, delivered the sanction obtained from Government of India, in the late evening at Standard Chartered Bank union office at Delhi.

3.         In a nutshell to state, he was the comrade, who possessed the attributes of care, concern, compassion, courtesy and cogent convincing communication for dealing with any critical situation that was faced by the officers’ trade union movement. One of the fine foresightedness was the objection to freedom for introduction of technology in the Banks. He was candid in his expressions presented in the Conference of AIBEA held at Mumbai in  2000-01, that introducing technology was necessity of the time to improve efficiencies in Governance, per se, it was not neutral. Industry, now, is faced with multiple challenges on account of the above step.Thus, he had the adherence of the noble thoughts VIZ

THINK GOOD, BE GOOD AND DO GOOD.

COM.RJS AMAR RAHE,

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.22/VIII/2025

13.06.2025.

Camp: MUMBAI.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/ AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

DISCUSSIONS HELD BY IBA WITH ELEVEN UNIONS

ON

INSURANCE BACKED HOSPITALISATION SCHEME.

As a sequel to the earlier discussions held through Video-Conference on 21^st May 2025, in which, Com. D.S. Ganesan, Dy. General Secretary AIBOA participated and presented our organizational stand in a candid manner. In said meeting held, he stressed the stand point of all the eleven unions should be engaged in the exercise of finalizing the scheme, instead of the IBA proposal of small committee approach. To-day, IBA held a meeting with the representatives of eleven unions.

2.         Team IBA was led by Shri. Rajneesh Karnatak, Chairman Negotiating Committee and MD&CEO, BOI, Shri. R.K. Sharma, MD&CEO IDBI, Shri. Binod Kumar, MD&CEO Indian Bank Shri. GopalMurliBhagat, DY.C.E,andShri. Brajeshwar Sharma Senior Advisor (HR& IR). The undersigned participated in the meeting.

3.         Based on the feedback received at our Office, we have submitted a detailed documentto IBA stressing the necessity to increase the coverage limit on the basisof  medical inflation. In addition, we have  also written to Chairman SBI, who is also the Chairman IBA that SBI General Insurance Co. Ltd should be advised to participate in the bidding process, as they are extending the facility to the existing workforce as well as to retirees of the State Bank of India at an affordable cost.

4.         Shri. GopalMuraliBhagat, Dy.C.E. IBA while welcoming the participants, briefed the improvements made in extending the coverage, the first one being the clubbing of existing workforce and the retirees for arriving at the Insurance premium in the bidding process, to process the claims up-to Rs 25000/- through digital mode for which the present Insurance company has agreed, for which three IT officers are going to be engaged  by IBA drawn from Bank of India, Indian Bank and Punjab National Bank, expected to be completed by two months and the 90% of the claims can easily be resolved. IBA is planning to conduct a webinar for the benefit of all concerned in co-ordination with the Insurance Company.

5.         Based on the available inputs, IBA has proposed the following as a part of the improvement in the hospitalization scheme. The details are :

The existing limit of coverage has been increased between 31% to 75%.

·        Ie.                Award Staff limit                                     Rs 3lacs to Rs 4 lacs        ( 33%)

                    Officers limit upto Scale V.                            Rs 4 lacs to Rs 5.25 lacs     (31.25%)

                    Scale VI and  above                                  RS 4lacs to Rs 7 lacs          (75%)

·                       Corporate Buffer increased.                            Rs 100 Crs to Rs 125Crs.

·                       Cancer treatment inclusion.                            Immunal  and Hormonal Therapy,

·                       New Coverage                                       Robotic Surgery based on doctor’s Certificate

·                       Critical Illness.                                       Thyroid Cancer from Second Stage.

·                       Top-up Policies Slab wise coverage.                     Rs 1 Lac, 2 Lacs and 3 Lacs.

·                       Retirees coverage extended.                            Mentally/Physically challenged dependents –

·                                                                           Premium to be borne by retirees/spouse as

·                                                                           An add-on Policy.

·                       Cataract limit enhanced.                               Rs 40000/ per eye.  

6.         It was also emphasized that the exclusion of GST on Medical Insurance should be taken up by IBA with the Concerned authority at the Government level to benefit the retirees specifically. There were also suggestions pertaining to the utilization of buffer for critical illness, provided by banks, and the rejection of claims by TPA’s as non -medical expenses etc.

7.         The 75 minutes. meeting concluded with signing of the minutes by the representatives of the eleven unions.

8.         We shall keep you informed of the developments from time to time.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.21/VIII/2025

02.06.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

WHEN DEEDS SPEAK WORDS ARE NOTHING.

Com.Tarakda, affectionately respected by one and all,the Noble son of Mother India, who took all pains and strains, to steer the Bank Employees movement from the Allahabad Conference of the first trade union established in Pre independent India-AIBEA- in 1980, was born one hundred years ago.

2.         “One worker or one peasant has no strength. But if they organize themselves, they will have great strength. A ten thousand, a hundred thousand and a million of workers organized, will have greater strength. Therefore strength lies for you in organization. It does not lie in begging and pleading for justice and mercy. It lies in organization and in your helping each other whenever you are in trouble. This is the whole history of workers movement in the world and this has taught us, that the only way for workers to protect their interests and to save themselves is to organize into trade unions and to stand shoulder to shoulder whenever there is attack on any single person” – Jawarharlal Nehru-1936.

3.         Com. Tarakda, who had to his credits, very many achievements not only to the trade union movement but also a shining example in identifying himself as well as the banking trade unions in helping the needy and down trodden people throughout the country. He had a far reaching vision that no single trade union can fight alone the neo liberal policies dictated by the International financial Institutions and hence mooted the idea of formation of UFBU in the 1996 from Calcutta Conference of AIBEA-30.11.1996. His foremost concern was the Financial Institutions namely Banks should be under Public Sector, as they are the Instruments for social change and also for development of the Economy. He echoed his concern that the trade unions are to play the vital role of defeating the moves of the Government of denationalization of Public Sector Banks and defend jobs and jobs Security. He was the first trade union leader in the Banking Industry who published the Banks’ Loans defaulter list and also subjected to legal processes by the vested interest.

4.         One of the hall mark of his contribution to the banking workforce was securing the benefit of Pension in the year 1993.

In truth, revolutions are brought about by men who think as men of action and act as men of thought – the living legend in the hearts of all – Com.Tarak da.

Comradely Yours,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No. 20 /VIII/2025

22.05.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

INSURANCE BACKED HOSPITALISATION SCHME -

IBA MEETING ON VIRTUAL MODE

HELD ON 21^ST MAY 2025.

IBA convened the meeting of the representatives of the Unions / Associations on 21.05.2025  to discuss on various aspects of the Insurance backedHospitalisation Scheme,viz: coverage benefits, policy terms, renewal considerations and about potential enhancements.

2. AIBOA,had submitted two detailed communications last year itself based on the IRDAI recommendations for inclusion of prevalent treatment/procedures under Technological Advancement and treatments. In addition, we have suggested to IBA that the scheme drawn by SBI GENERAL INSURANCE for SBI workforce/retirees should be made applicable to other banks also.

3.         The Team IBA was led byChairman Negotiating Committee Shri.Rajneesh Karnatak,MD&CEOBOI,Shri. Binod Kumar Mishra,DMD,SBI Sri. BinodKumar,MD&CEO,IndianBank, Shri.A.K.GoelCE IBA,Shri.GopalMurliBhagatDy CE IBA,Shri. Brajeswar Sharma Senior Advisor HR&IR , IBA participated in the meeting.  AIBOA was represented by Com. D.S. Ganesan, Deputy General Secretary, as the undersigned was held up with other organisational assignments.

4.         After the brief introduction by Shri. GopalMurliBhagatDy.C.E IBA explaining the purpose of the meeting,Shri.A.K.Goel CE, IBA initiated the discussion by mentioning the Group Medical Insurance Scheme is available in SBI and that the discussion should come out with inputs from the representatives of the participating organisations. 

5.         Shri. Rajneesh KarnatakChairman Negotiating Team IBA deliberated in detail about the formalities in finalising the  Insurance backed Hospitalisation scheme, as it has to be made effective from 01.11.2025 and to discuss with the Insurance Companies for arriving at the final conclusion.

6.         The representatives of the Unions/Associations  have suggested for increase in the quantum coverage  of the policy, increase in the buffer, addition of the new diseases / surgery, super top-up, online sanction up to a particular amount, further empanelment of hospitals, increasing the CAP for maternity / cataract / therapy / room rent and coverage for artificial limbs, arms etc.

7.         Our organisational representative Com.D.S.Ganesan, DGSplaced the following:

l    Owing to inflation / increased costs for surgery / medicines, the quantum of the Coverageamount is to be increased substantially.

l   New diseases confronting us have also to be added and the list is to be made exhaustive to cover the risk fully.

l   To ensure to adhere to the Turn aroundTime(TAT) so that the staff will not suffer on account of delayed processing by the TPA.

l   The Premium for the combined policy for serving and also Retirees should be very competitive as already pensioners are to pay their two months’ pensiontowards  the premium to get the coverage.

8.         While folding up the discussion of 55 minutes, theDy.C.E.IBA, informed that 80% of the claims are less than Rs.35000/- and that we need to explore the possibility of installing a mobile app, so that claims can be cleared up-to an eligible amount stipulated. He further explained that there is a need to have  multiple meetings with the insurance companies to arrive at competitive premium.

9.         Shri. Rajneesh Karnatak, Chairman Negotiating Committee IBA,whilewrapping up the meeting. appreciated the participants forcontributing good number of suggestions and assured the need for increased quantum and to put in placethe procedures to make the processing of the claims  smoother.  In order to speed up the discussion and to arrive at the new policy within the dead line, he suggested that a committee of 3 or 4 can be formed.

10.       From AIBOA, we suggested that IBA should engage all the unions in the  entire process of finalisation of the scheme, as all the nine unions were party to the introduction of the Insurance Backed Hospitalisation Scheme in the 2015.

11.       The developments will be communicated in due course.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.19/VIII/2025

15.05.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

OUR AFFILIATE

ALL INDIA UNION BANK OFFICER STAFF ASSOCIATION

 DID ACHIEVE RELIEF TO FEMALE OFFICERS

ON LATERAL TRANSFERS.

All India Union Bank Officer Staff Association (AIUBOSA), our affiliate, has a unique way of bringing relief to the officers’ fraternity consistently. To begin with, Government of India issued  guidelines in March 2012 on criteria for Promotion from one Scale to another, in which the marks to be secured in Performance Appraisal should be 75% retrospectively for each of the last three years as an eligibility factor besides other parameters for participation in the promotion.

2.         AIUBOSA, having felt the retrograde stipulation of minimum 75% marks in APAR that too for the last three years, took up issue through legal intervention in the High Court of Madras. The management of the Bank had to concede to the stand taken by our affiliate and arrived at an understanding in consultation with late Com. R.J.Sridharan, the Chairman of AIBOA. The understandings was preceded with a discussion at Mumbai with G.M (Personnel) and also a courtesy call with the then Chairman of the Bank Shri.D.Sarkar. The step taken by our affiliate shook the Government of India in this regard. Though there were 27 Public Sector banks, neither the Bank managements nor the officers’ unions operating in these banks challenged the retrograde provisions. Not only this, even appeal provision on APAR was also secured by our affiliate, which was made applicable to all other banks subsequently.

3.         AIUBOSA, secured additional relief to a cross section of the officers in Union Bank of India. Including the present one, there were six court cases through which major benefits were secured, as the management of the bank was unable to realize the gravity of the situations, hence our unit was forced to knock the doors of court.

4.         The present case, which deals with the various provisions of the Constitution, upholds the dignity and self- esteem of women officers in the Industry.  Com.D.S. Ganesan and Com.Gaurav Goyal who worked relentlessly to get the fruits of their efforts. Our Sincere thanks to the legal counsel Ms.Vaigai, Senior Counsel, for Anna Mathew, who stood for the dignity of women officers, in our Industry.

RED SALUTES TO THE AIUBOSA, March on.

Yours comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.18/VIII/2025 

30^th April 2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

AIBOA DECIDED TO EXTEND FRATERNAL SUPPORT

TO THE CTU’s STRIKE

ON 20^TH MAY 2025.

Our organisation, the legally recognised one, had a plan to conduct an office bearers/Advisors meeting on 28^th April 2025 to discuss and decide the course of action to be adopted pertaining to the Strike called by 10 Central Trade Unions on 20^th May 2025. The meeting was postponed due to certain organisational assignments.

2.         The postponed GOOGLE meet of office bearers was conducted on 29^th April 2025 under the Presidentship Com. A.N. Suresh. The meeting congratulated the Com. A.V. Vithal Koteswara Rao, DGS AIBOA for conducting the 3^rd National Conference of AIIDBIOA at Bengaluru on 26^th and 27^th April 2025, in which he was re-elected unanimously as a General Secretary and Com. Sarubh Kumar as President of AIIDBIOA. In addition to this organisational activity, All India Union Bank Officer Staff Association (AIUBOSA) led by Com. D.S. Ganesan, DGS, AIBOA and General Secretary, AIUBIOSA secured an advancement through legal intervention in reiteration of the provisions of the Government Guidelines dated 08.08.2014 as well as 26.11.2024 in the transfer policy for officers in Union Bank of India.

3.         The undersigned pointedly presented the gross root level depressed feelings of the inept handling of the 5 day banking week to secure work-life balance for the young aspirants as well as failure to raise the resistant movement collectively against the proposed disinvestment process of IDBI, which will certainly facilitate the next step of reducing the Government equity in 5 Public Sector Banks viz: Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, Punjab &Sind Bank and UCO Bank. The participants were advised to express their opinion about our participation in the proposed strike call on 20.05.2025 given by CTUS.

4.         After soliciting the opinion from the participants, overwhelmingly, the expression made by them was to extend fraternal support to the Strike on 20.05.2025. Our organisation was the only officers’ organisation observed in the past the Strike call in MARCH 2022 given by CTUS.

Therefore, it has been decided not to participate in the Strike and to extend fraternal support.  Our organisation directs the State committees,Affiliated Units and members to extend fraternal support to the striking work force and not to do any clerical work on 20.05.2025.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.17/VIII/2025

24.04.2025

TO

 ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

IBA HELD DISCUSSIONS WITH UNIONS AT MUMBAI- 23.04.2025

IBA convened a meeting of the representatives of eleven organisations at Mumbai, as a follow -up exercise, after the Conciliation meetings held at Delhi on 18^th and 21^st March 2025 in the background of preparations to observe two days’ All India Stay out strike on 24^th and 25^th March 2025.

2.         Team IBA was led by Shri.Rajneesh Karnatak, Chairman, Negotiating Committee, IBA, Shri. R.K. Sharma, MD & CEO, IDBI, Shri. Binod Kumar, MD&CEO Indian Bank, Shri. A.K. Goel, CE, IBA,Shri. Gopal Murli Bhagat, Dy.C.E. IBA, Shri. Brajeshwar Sharma Senior Advisor (HR&IR),and Shri. Mahesh Pandey, DGM SBI.

3.         After an introductory welcome by Dy. C.E. IBA, Negotiating Committee Chairman IBA, shared the information about theperformance of Public Sector Banks for the financial year ended 31.03.2025,reduction of Repo rate by RBI and its reflection on Net Interest Margin, Geo-political developments on account of tariffs war, and IMF forecast on reduction of GDP. He concluded that the negotiations are held by Dy.C.E and Senior Advisor (HR&IR)with the unions. Shri. R.K. Sharma MD & CEO IDBI complimented for the role played by the unions in the Industry, his confirmation about the pressure on the margins which can be tackled by the teamwork of the employees. Shri. Binod Kumar, MD&CEO Indian Bank, while welcoming the participating unions in the meeting, due to the co-ordination between the Managements and Unions, broader issues have been addressed.

4.         The response from the Team IBA on the following issues are:

·        Recruitments: While the initial indent was around 6000, subsequent to the meeting held with the HR heads of the Banks, the same revised to 11,800. This indent is besides the recruitment indent of 14181 in SBI. The four banks viz. UCO,,BOM,BOB and IB have placed the revised intent of 400,500,1200 and 1600 respectively.

·        PLI: IBA has taken up the matter with Government of India for a review.

·        OUTSOURCING:  The banks have been advised to maintain status quo based on the advice of the Conciliation proceedings held on 24.11.2023. As there was no proposal to address the issue from the unions, the banks have indicated that they should be relieved from the commitments. The stipulated timeline by the bank is up-to 30.06.2025.

·        SAFETY AND SECURITY OF THE WORKFORCE IN THE BRANCHES: While IBA is open for the suggestion that the  Branch head should be permitted to file the FIR against the miscreants for their unruly behaviour, reiterated that an advisory from DFS,MOF,GOI to all State Governments would be more appropriate to arrest the repeated occurrence of the incidences, in various parts of the country.

·        REVIEW OF THE PERFORMANCE OF THE WORKFORCE IN THE BANKS : As there is a provision to review the performance of an officer after attaining the age 55years/58 years in OSR, IBA has reiterated to put in a policy for the rest of the workforce, in response to Government insistence.

·        WELFARE MEASURES -IMPLEMENTATION OF MATERNITY ACT: IBA  proposed to adopt the provisions of the maternity benefits stipulated in the Act, adopted by the Parliament, which was not discussed exclusively, in the Officers’Wage Revision.

·        Ex-Gratia to Pensioners:  The Ex-gratia to pensioners will be provided for one more year.

·        TAX ON PERQUISITES: It is left to the individual banks to extend the facilities.

·        LEAVE BANK:  The modalities need to be discussed further to take it forward.

·        HOSPITALISATION SCHEME -DISTRIBUTION OF BUFFER: IBA stated the buffer available to last Rupee was disbursed to seven Banks, as per the scheme.

The meeting lasted for 100 minutes in all.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular 16/VIII/2025

22^nd April, 2025.

Camp :Kurukshetra University.

KURUKSHETRA.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

2^nd  Com.P.K.MENON ANNUAL MEMORIAL LECTURE

AT KURUKSHETRA UNIVERSITY.

Our organization has established an arrangement with the Economics Department of Kurukshetra University to perpetuate the memory of Late Com. P.K. Menonda, the founder General Secretary of our organization. The assignment of coordinating with the University authorities was entrusted to AIBOA (Haryana State Committee) in close co-ordination with AIBOA(Punjab State Committee). Last year the first memorial lecture was held on 14^th August 2025, in which family members of Com. Menon participated.

2.         The Second Memorial lecture was arranged by the Economics Department, Kurukshetra University to-day and topic chosen to be presented to the participants was “ Endless Financial Crisis and Political Turbulence” by Shri. Mukesh Aseem, Editorial Board, THE Truth Magazine, in the Senate Hall, Kurukshetra University.

3.         The proceedings commenced at 10.45 A.M, with the floral tributes to the portrait Com. P.K. Menon, by the main speaker of the function, Prof.Dara Singh, Chairperson, Dept. of .Economics,, Prof. Sanjeev Bansal, Com. G.S. Oberoi, Com. Praveen Goel, Com. Ashwani Pradhan, Com. Charanjeev Joshi, Com. Anil .Sharma, Com.Balvinder and the undersigned. 

4.         Prof. Ashok Chauhan, in his brief gracious address welcomed the participation of the special invitees to the function viz: Shri. Mukesh Aseem, Prof. Dara Singh, and Com. Vidushi Prajapati in addition to the office bearers of AIBOA drawn from the States and from the Central Office.

5.         Com. G. S. Oberoi, Chairman AIBOA(HSC), presented the brief life sketch of late Com. P.K. Menonda . in bi-lingual for the benefit of the participants particularly the student community.

6.         Prof Sanjeev Bansal. In his presentation of relevant details commencing from the Great global Depression of 1930, No financial Crisis during 1945 to 1971, fear gripping led to selling of the assets, behavior pattern of US citizens spending more and in contrast citizens of China saves more, the crisis in the financial system appeared in different form step by step viz: Displacement, Boom (Asset acquired with optimism) Euphoria(Speculation), crisis and revelation etc. The finest touch and go initiated a fine presentation by the Main Speaker on the Occasion.

7.         Shri Mukesh Aseem, a former employee worked in the corporate finance in SBI, preferred to opt out to serve IBM for about 12 years and finally chosen to serve the Societythrough his involvement in the Editorial Board of magazine the Truth. While paying tributes to the contribution made by Com. P.K. Menon, in the early days of formation of the Trade unions in the Banking Industry, how the bank employee was identified by the people in the dead of the night, due to the barking dogs. No working hours stipulated by the Private Sector for the employee. He covered in his 80 minutes presentation on the Endless Financial Crisis leading to political turbulence covering following points; the cry for work-life balance ie 8-8-8 by slogan raised by the monopolist, the plight of the gig workers and their compensation, produces of agriculture were consumed by the members of the agriculturists, India’s position in the Hunger Index. People have started reading the books of Karl Marx, irrational growth of market leads to crisis, equation between Industrial Capital and Financial capital, return on the investment kept in the bank comparing 1990 and now, AI introduction leads to more production with less labour force, overall profit growth in the circumstances mentioned above but per unit profit is marginal, purchasing power of the labour force, war mongering tactics of Hitler in 1930, Second War in 1945, China claiming to be controlled by Communists but the Government is a capitalist Government, LPG Era, disintegration of the erstwhile USSR, Announcement of Mr. Trump on liberation day unleashing the tariff wars against the all countries, inevitable situation leading to a world war once again, exploitation of the worker through work from home, wage compensation is  not to linked unlimitedhours of work, sub-prime crisis occurred in 2008, crisis of the life itself, new definition of Fascism is corporatization and capitalists taking control of the Government leading to the existence of the democracy itself. He concluded with a remark that should we not think about the society in the present conditions enveloping the entire world.

8.         The Undersigned covered certain basic observations on the presentation made as well as the future of the Nation rests on the shoulders of the Gen-Next, as our Nation is considered as young Nation in terms population.

9.         Prof. S.K. Chahal, Dean of the Humanities in his remarks clarified certain matter with regard to evolution of capitalism in stages, and relevance of history to be understood by the economists,

10.        Shri. Mukesh Aseem replied to queries raised by the participants.

11.        Com. Praveen Goel, Secretary AIBOA conducted the pleasant job of offering the felicitations to the signatories on behalf of Central Office of AIBOA. The office bearers of AIBOA present in the meeting handed over the mementos.

The representatives from the other trade unions have participated in the memorial lecture, as they had participated last year also.

12.        Dr. Priya Sharma, proposed the vote of thanks on behalf of the University.

13.        Our organization place on record the deep appreciation of the Research Scholars, members of the Economics department and young students of the University, who remained to listen the presentation with rapt attention.

14.        The educative exercise lasting for nearly three and half hours came to end with the raising  the participants in  paying respect to the National Anthem.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No..15/VIII/2025

15.04.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/  AFFILIATED UNITS :

Comrades,

2nd Com.P.K.MENON  ANNUAL  MEMORIAL LECTURE 

ORGANISED BY DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS,

KURUKSHETRA UNIVERSITY, KRUKSHETRA

ON 22^nd APRIL 2025.

Our organization in co-ordination with the Economics Department Kurukshetra University, established a chair in the memory of the founder General Secretary Late Com.P.K. MENON. Last year on 14^th August 2024, the first lecture was delivered by Com. Rajesh Tyagi, ,Advocate Supreme Court, which was participated by the students of the University, Faculty members and office bearers of the our organization. It was a fine beginning with the personal presence of the family members of Late Com. P.K. Menon.

2.         The second Annual Memorial Lecture has been arranged by Prof Dara Singh, Chairperson, Department of Economics, Kurukshetra University on 22^nd April 2025. The memorial lecture will be delivered by Shri .MukeshAseemJi, Editor, The Truth, Yatharath Magazine and the topic is “ENDLESS FINANCIAL CRISIS AND RISING POLITICAL TURBALANCE” The program shall commence at 10.30 A.M. on 22.04.2025.

3.         We advise the members of the officers’ fraternity to take part in the 2^nd Annual Memorial Lecture, who are working in and around the University, as the topic is relevant for everyone in the background of the recently unleashed tariff war on 2^nd April, 2025 by the President USA.

4.         The invitation issued by the Economics Department, Kurukshetra University is appended herewith.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.13/VIII/2025

18.03.2025

Camp: Delhi

TO:ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Dear Comrades,

CONCILIATION MEETING WITH CLC, NEW DELHI AT 4.00 PM TODAY.

Our organization has served a Notice of Strike on 4^th of March of 2025 to the Chairman, IBA and the Chief Labour Commissioner, Central with a copy to all MD / CEOs of Public Sector Banks along with the Statement of the case.

2.         Office of the CLC vide its letter No.21(18)/2025-IR dated 10^th March 2025 informed about the date of conciliation with our organization for 18^th March 2025 at 4.00 pm in their office.

3.         Team AIBOA under the leadership of Com. V. Anil Kumar, Vice-chairman, Com. D.S. Ganesan, Com. Charanjeev Joshi, Com. A.V. VithalKoteswaraRao, the Deputy General Secretaries, Com. Sanjay Handa, Secretary, Com. Praveen Rawat, Com. Chandra Mohan Singh Rawat representing NBOA along with the undersignedparticipated in the conciliation meeting.

4.         Representing CLC (Central), Dy. CLC (Central) Shri. TejBhadur,RLC(C)Shri. O.P. Singh, ALC (C) Shri. Amrutesh, engaged us in the conciliation proceedings.  Shri.J.S. Mohamed AshrafDy. Secretary, DFS, Ministry of Finance, GOI, Shri.Brijeshwar Sharma, Senior Advisor (HR&IR) IBA along with the executives of various Banks attended the proceedings.

5.         On behalf of our organization, the undersigned placed the view points on all the issues listed in our Strike Notice in a brief manner with irrefutable facts and figures.  On completion of our presentation, the presiding officer of the proceedings advised the Senior Advisor HR & IR of IBA as well as the Dy. Secretary of DFS to place their response/viewpoints.

6.         Their response to our issues was not convincing in the matter of IDBI Privatisation, takeover of Nainital Bank Ltd by Bank of Baroda, 5day week banking for the workforce and Up-dation of Pension on the lines of RBI for the elders and other issues.In the absence of firm commitment to resolve the same within a definite time frame, the discussion was inconclusive. In view of the above, we were left with no alternative but to adhere  tothe implementation of two days Strike programs.

7.         The Conciliation Officers adjourned the proceedings to 21^st of March 2025 at 2.00 pm.

Comrades, please adhere to the call of the organization – Right to Disconnect between 8.00 pm and 9.00 am without any deviation and observe the Strike Call on 24^th and 25^th March 2025.

Yours Comradely,

/ S. NAGARAJAN /

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.12/VIII/2025

18^th March 2025

CAMP: NEW DELHI.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

SUBMISSION OF MEMORANDUM

TO HON’BLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR FINANCE.

Today, AIBOA team led by Com. V. Anil Kumar, Vice Chairman, Com. D.S. Ganesan, Com. Charanjeev Joshi, Com.A.V.VithalKoteswaraRao,Deputy General Secretaries along with the undersigned met the Hon’ble Minister of State for Finance Shri. Pankaj Choudhary in his office at North Block.

2.         Though, the appointment was with the Hon’ble Finance Minister, Government of India, due to her pre-occupation, there was a preponement of the schedule of the meeting in the afternoon itself. In the midst of the Parliament Session, the Hon’ble Minister of State for Finance accommodated our delegation to meet him in person.

3.         While honouring him with a shawl, Team AIBOA handed over the memorandum containing the issues concerning the Banking Industry and its workforce. We placed on record our appreciation for positive approach of the authorities at the Centre as well as DFS for conclusion of the 9^th Joint Note on officers’ wage revision. The delegation emphasized that the Government of India should buy back 6% of the shares from LIC, so that the IDBI can be enveloped as a Public Sector Bank and also about the attack on the workforce in the Banks branches by the customers/local representatives.

4.         The other issues covered in the memorandum are:  a. Proposal to dilute the Government Equity in five Public Sector Banks, b. The Nainital Bank Ltd should be taken over by the parent Bank, Bank of Baroda, c. Recruitment in Banks, d. Implementation of five-day week banking, e. Up-dation of pension on the lines of RBI and f. Implementation of Banking Companies Act – TU representatives in Banks’ Boards.

We from our organizationhave taken up the above issues to the Government of India for its prompt resolution.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.11/VIII/2025

17.03.2025.

TO ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS :

Comrades,

CONCILIATION MEETING WITH CLC AT DELHI

ON 18^TH MARCH 2025 @ 4.00.P.M.

As you aware that our organisation has served the Strike notice dated 4^th March 2025 informing the Chairman IBA and CLC(Central) Delhi that our members will observe strike on 24^th and 25^th March 2025 to resolve the issues listed in our communication.

2.         In response to our Strike Notice, the CLC (Central) has fixed the conciliation proceedings on 18^th March 2025 at 4.00 P.M, as the issues listed by us are distinct and different in content.

3.         In the meanwhile, the programme of Right to Disconnect should be scrupulously adhered to i.e., not to attend the Calls / WhatsApp’s / SMS  from  8.00 P.M to 9.00 A.M to secure the work-life balance as well as the time specified by our organisation is the personal time for the officers.

We shall keep you posted with the developments in due course.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.10/VIII/2025

14.03.2025.

TO

 ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

DISCUSSION ON RESIDUAL ISSUES HELD BY IBA.

In terms of the understandings arrived at on 08.03.2024 at Mumbai, while concluding the 9^th Joint Note on Officers’ Wage revision, that the residual issues would be sorted out within a maximum period Six months.

2. On 26^th August 2024, there was a meeting held at Bengaluru, wherein the minutes of PLI was signed and other issues were taken for discussion, without any conclusion, except exchanging a note on the ‘Introduction of Leave Bank’, provided by the IBA.

3. Yesterday, at Mumbai, the discussions on the residual issues, was held at IBA Office. Mr. A.K. Goel, who assumed the office of the Chief Executive IBA on 11.03.2025 attended and initiated the discussions with his approach and priorities. The eleven constituent unions’ representatives responded referring to his communication in a positive way. The interaction lasted for 50 minutes with him.

4. Subsequently, the discussion on the Residual issues was initiated by Shri. GopalMurliBhagat Dy. CEO IBA and Shri.Brijeshswar Sharma Senior Advisor, HR&IR.IBA. CGMS and GM of SBI, BOB, BOI, UBI and CBI were also participated in the  interactive exercise.

5. The listed issues were bifurcated as officers and workmen issues. There were common issues: [1]. Payment of Gratuity at the rate of one month Pay for each year of Service without any restrictions: [2]. Option for NPS optees to join OPS [3].Extending ex-gratia to private banks [4.]Adequate Recruitments in Banks [5]. D.A. Scheme for all pensioners at the uniform index of 8088 index points [6]. Inclusion of special allowance for superannuation benefits [7]. North Eastincentive on the lines of RBI / LIC [8].Modifications in Compassionate Appointment scheme.[9]. Premium of medical insurance policy to be borne by the banks [10].Improvement in Group Medical Insurance Policy.[11]. Updation of pension for past retirees 12. Improvements in Pension Scheme.

6. INTRODUCTION OF LEAVE BANK: It wasshared about the efforts made by them with the Earnest and Young Consultants to have a clear idea on the tax implications to be met by the beneficiaries. Exchange of views were made to arrive at a solution at an early date. The suggestions are to be submitted to IBA by 31.03.2025, by the unions.

7.REVIEW OF EX-GRATIA TO PENSIONERS:  It will be undertaken in the ensuing financial year April 2025.

8. INCORPORATINGS CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF PENSION REGULATIONS: Central Government has revised the minimum qualifying service to avail Pension, facility to dependent disabled persons, as per DOPT circular, and need to revise quantum of Minimum Pension for the pension optees of 1986 etc. It was agreed to incorporate the same.

9. MONETISATION OF LTC/LFC: The discussions held a day prior to signing the 9^th Joint Note was inconclusive and expressed to be followed up in due course.

10. Disciplinary Action and Procedures:  IBA representatives informed that there were forward movement in the matter of finalization D&A procedures for officers. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are in the concluding stage for circulation to the banks. From our organization, we insisted that the effects of punishments should also clearly spelt out in the document. IBA should have held a meeting within three months from date of signing the 9^th Joint note on officers’ Wage revision as per 9^th Joint Note on Officers’Wagerevision,which was not held so far.

11. UNIFORM CASH HOURS AND BUSINESS HOURS: As there are conflicting stand between the individual banks and also the SLBC operating in the States, steps should be taken by IBA to streamline the timings, which was consented, subject to the feedback they receive.

12. D.A SCHEME FOR PENSIONERS AT 8088 POINTS: The issue was kept open for having the details pertaining to introduction of uniform index to Pensioners at 8088 points.

13. RECRUITMENTS: Except SBI, where the staff ratio is 1:1, rest of the Banks the situation is precarious. Officers are to do multiple jobs with skeleton staff at the Branches. The Statement made in the temple of democracy - Parliament was also shared i.e., 95% vacancies have been filled, by a responsible people’s representative.  The Government should be informed by you about the precarious situation at ground level faced by the workforce.

14.Special Allowance to NER on the lines of RBI / LIC: It was requested that the ceiling ofSpecial allowance should be increased.

15. GRID HOLIDAYS:The issue is hanging on fire from last 8^th Joint Note on officers’ wage revision. It was informed that a separate note will be submitted to IBA, though, earlier we had given the details by four officers organizations and discussion was held on 30.01.2023 by IBA team headed by Shri. A.K. Goel the then Chairman IBA and Shri. M.V. Rao, the then negotiating Chairman IBA with four organizations.

The entire exercise which lasted for 130 minutes was focusing around the principles “cure some; relieve most but comfort all”.

Please exercise the “RIGHT TO DISCONNECT” between 8.00 pm to 9.00 am to secure much vexed issue of Regulated working hours and also connected issues.

WITH GREETINGS OF HOLI FESTIVAL,

Yours comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular 9/VIII/2025

09.03.2025

TO ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS.

Comrades,

AIBOA (KERALA STATE COMMITTEE)

13^TH STATE CONFERENCE

A RESOUNDING SUCCESS.

AIBOA (Kerala State Committee) organized its 13^th Conference at Ernakulam on 8^th and 9^th March 2025 in Hotel Presidency Ernakulam North. The venue of the conference was named as Com. Jacob Mathew Nagar. The conference was dedicated to the memory of the founder General Secretary of the AIBOA(KSC) late  Com. S.D. SUNDARRAJAN

2.         The 8^th March was the International Women’s Day, Adv. T. B. Mini, was the speaker on the Occasion. Com. O. Prajith Kumar General Secretary welcomed the participants followed by the Presidential address of Com. M.D. Gopinath. Adv. T.B. Mini, a respected person in the legal fraternity in her short and pointed presentation covered the attacks on women in various forms in all walks of life and how the judiciary as well as administration collude together to cover up the specific incidences thereby to save the culprits from the eyes of law. Her speech was informative and she called upon the female members in the society to stand up against atrocities committed against them fearlessly.

3.         Public Session:  After a short tea break, Dr. Sunil lllayidom, in his  presentation, covered the vast subjects linking to Society, Religion, Technology, belief, human behaviour and also the Historical Conference held in Chicago by Swami Vivekananda and the quality of the people of Kerala as well as the performance of the State in every sphere of functioning. The speech was highly informative and well received by the participants with rapt attention.

Com. Alankode Leelakrishan, a retired bank employee from Kerala Gramina Bank in 2020 covered lucidly his whole presentation in a lyrical form. Commencing from differential PLI, Nationalisation of the Banks in two phases one in 1969 and another in 1980, Electronic media coverage of the violence in many forms after 10.00, pm, tracing the historical failure of the war between SOVIET Union and Germany, current power politics in the Global level between the veto countries, role of the communist movement led by Com. P. C. Joshi Com. S.A. Dange.

In his concluding remarks, he expressed that the Corporates are controlling the Governance of the Institutions and the Governments at all levels and the capital of the trade unions are People. The undersigned was assigned the job of summing up both the presentations in a capsule manner. Com. Nandakumar the former President of BEFI attended the Public Session.

4. AVG ANUSMARANAM :     The second day session commenced at 10.30 am with the welcome address by Com. K. Sathyanathan, who had close association with late Com. AVG. The session was addressed by Sri S. Adikesavan, former CGM of erstwhile State Bank of Travancore and presently as Advisor SBI. While delving the subject “ Indian Banking Industry -Problems and Prospects” he traced the developments right from introduction of technology in our Industry, delinking the Gold Standard with dollar in 1973, stability aspects of the Indian Banking System, performance of the Pvt Sector Banks versus Public Sector Banks in the area business handled, the prospects of our nation becoming the third largest economy in the days to come, the list of Global Banks in which the ranking of US bank and SBI are placed, profit earned by the PSBS, proposed reduction of Government’s shareholding in Public Sector Banks and Banking and LIC are listed as Strategic Industry in the policy document of the present Government with a concluding remark that the Public Banks should be protected for the growth of the Nation.Com. Jayagopal, Vice President, of the State Committee proposed the vote of thanks.

5.         FROM AIBOA -UNORGANISED TRUST, Rs,1,99,000.00 will be sent AIBOA(KSC) to be utilised to rehabilate a deserving individual/student/or a family to meet out the needs in the memory of COM AVG

6.         DELEGATES SESSION:       The session was addressed by the undersigned sharing the concerns and also the circumstances forcing the banking workforce to resort to proposed two days strike on 24^th and 25^th March 2025. The program of RIGHT TO DISCONNECT to be observed from 10.03.2025 was explained and the recent achievement made in P&S Bank was also shared.

7.         GENERAL SECRETARY REPORT PRESENTATION: Com. O. Prajithkumar, General Secretary of the State Committee presented the activities carried out during the period of three years in a convincing way. The Statement of Accounts were presented by Com.V. Naveen, acting treasurer of the State Committee

8.         PARTICIPATION OF DELEGATES: Sixteen delegates from 12 banks shared their plight at the workplace and also the necessity of the State Committee to intervene in resolving the issues.

After the reply by Com. O. Prajithkumar on the queries raised by the delegates the report was adopted unanimously.

9.         RESOLUTIONS :  The resolution on halting the disinvestment exercise in IDBI was moved by Com.Jayakala, vice President of the State Committee. Other resolutions viz: Disinvestment in 5 Public Sector Banks, On Outsourcing, 5 days banking week, Up-dation of Pension akin to the RBI scheme and Restoration of the OPS to NPS optees  were moved by Com.M.D.Gopinath, President.

10.       ELECTION OF NEW TEAM OF OFFICE BEARERS:Com. O. Prajithkumar, presented a panel of office bearers and committee members to the election committee consisting Com.  K. Sathyanathan and the undersigned. The panel presented was approved unanimously.

Com. O. Prajithkumar (KGB), Com.V.Jayagopal (Karnataka Bank) and Com.H. Vinod Kumar(CANARA) have been elected as Chairman, President and General Secretary respectively. The newly elected President addressed the house in a brief manner

The outgoing President Com. M.D. Gopinath was felicitated by the organisers.

The Kerala State Committee Conference was of high order of discipline, educative and participative in fine ambience provided. The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Com. H. Vinodkumar, the newly elected General Secretary.

With conference greetings,

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.7/VIII/2025

07.03.2025.

TO ALL STATE COMMITTEES/AFFILIATED UNITS :

Comrades,

TWO DAYS STRIKE ON 24^th and 25^th MARCH 2025.

RIGHT TO DISCONNECT – ACTION PROGRAM –

10.03.2025 ONWARDS.

Our organisation has served the Notice of Strike dated 4^th March 2025 to the Chairman IBA and also to CLC(Central) New Delhi enclosing the Statement of Case. We have also informed to the authorities that the officers in the Banking Industry will exercise the “RIGHT TODISCONNECT” action program from 10.03.2025 (Monday).

2.         Our organisation in the Silver Jubilee Conference held at New Delhi in Feb 2006 adopted the resolution on Regulated working hours and also 5 days weekbased on the fact that the alternative delivery channels were utilised and now substantially. However, due to volume of business handled by the bank branches have also increased, disproportionate to the manpower depletion, the burden of conducting and concluding the day-to-day operations of the branches rest on the shoulders of Officers. The number of suicides by the young officers are also increasing due to work pressure at the branches. It is not only in the field level functionaries but also the administrative heads of the controlling offices too.

3.         The demand raised by our organisation was partially achieved in 2015 ie w.e.f.1.09.2015, whereas other financial institutions, markets and Central and State Government offices are functioning 5 days in a week. The LIC of India implemented the 5 day week w.e.f. 1.08.2021 for their workforce.

4.         Though the workforce in the Banking Industry is continuously discharging their duties to best of their abilities and capacity in implementing all Government sponsored schemes, still when the facilities and benefits are concerned, we have been treated as second class citizens. The sufferings experienced during “Demonetisation” and during the “COVID-19” by the workforce is unexplainable.

5.         In order to achieve the demands raised in our Strike Notice, our organisation has decided to direct the officers in the Industry to observe the RIGHT TO DISCONNECT ie not to attend the calls/SMS/ WHATAPP messages from 08.00 P.M to 9.00 A.M. from 10.03.2025 onwards.

March on to observe the Strike on 24^th and 25^th March 2025 in our Industry.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.6/VIII/2025

04.03.2025.

TO ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS :

Comrades,

YESTERDAY DHARNA AT NEW DELHI.

As you are all aware that after the joint circular issued by three officers’ organisations on 27^th Jan,2025, the need was felt by other organisations to escalate the exercise of programs of actions. There was a Video-Conferencing on 04.02.2025, in which an individual claiming to represent AIBOA was allowed to participate, which was objected by our organisation in uncertain terms coupled with some of the issues that are of paramount importance which are to be projected.

2.         In spite of our reasonable, cohesive and co-ordinated approach, the expressions made by our organisation was not given due consideration. As per the  approach demonstrated time and again, our office bearers had decided to associate in the programs of actions released by the  8 unions.  Our elected office-bearers, Com. Charanjeev Joshi DGS, Com. Praveen Goel and Com. Sanjay Handa Secretaries, Com. G.S. Oberoi, Advisor along with  the members drawn from Punjab, Haryana and Delhi participated in the Dharna held at Delhi yesterday.

3.         When Com. Charanjeev Joshi,  Deputy General Secretary AIBOA, occupied the chair in the dais. One of the representative from the constituent union asked him not to occupy the chair. Still he sought his explanation for his approach. Keeping the decorum and discipline of our organisation, our DGS left the dais and participated.

4.         Further, in the delegation led to meet DFS, once again an individual representing the AIBOA was taken, which is certainly unacceptable. In view of the above, our organisation is contemplating to issue a separate Strike Notice projecting the issues already listed in the joint circular, to observe the proposed Strike on 24^th and 25^th March 2025, with an addition in the programs of actions ie RIGHT TO DISCONNECT, ie officers will not attend any of the official calls / Whatsapp messages between 8.00 p.m to 9.00 A.M from 10.03.2025 onwards.

5.         We shall keep the developments informed and in the meanwhile, all efforts should be made to make the proposed strike a successful one.

Yours comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.5/VIII/2025

14^th Feb 2025.

To:

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS

Comrades,

CLARION CALL ON THE 45^th FOUNDATION DAY OF OUR ORGANISATION.

ORGANISE, EDUCATE AND AGITATE –

 OUR TAGLINE FOR THE PROGRAMES OF ACTIONS.

COLLECTIVE  RESISTANCE

AS THAT OF THE FARMERS IS THE ONLY WAY FORWARD.

Our organization along with other two officers’ organisations released a communication dated 27^th January 2025 listing out the demands which are unresolved for a considerable period of time for immediate resolution.  Our actions, made the other organisations operating in our industry to realise the need for reinventing the lost step after the meeting held at Chennai on 11^th December 2024 attended by 8 constituents.

2.         In the meanwhile, there was an Email containing the names of the representatives of AIBEA, AIBOC and NCBE addressed to other five constituents listing out the issues for the proposed programmes of action culminating in 2 days proposed strike in the last week of March 2025.

3.         There was a follow up exercise initiated by the representatives mentioned here-in-above for a Google meet on 4^th February 2025, for which, the link was not provided to our organisation with an excuse that our organisation will not participate in the event of an individual said to be representing AIBOA was allowed to attend the meeting.

4.         In spite of cogent and convincing reasons communicated by Email / Registered Post to constituent unions, the individual was allowed to sign the communication of programme of actions.

5.         Looking to the developments in the matter of dis-investment in IDBI and also on Recruitment on the floor of the parliament, in the best interest of the work force in the industry, the office bearers meeting of our organisation held on 13^th February 2025 decided to associate with the programmes of actions already released by the 8 constituent unions.  The meeting further decided to communicate with the 8 constituent unions to include the issues referred here-in-above along with up-dation of pension on the lines of RBI.

6.         The meeting also decided that the proposed strike notice to be served by the constituent unions on CLC / DFS / IBA should carry the signature of the undersigned, the legal right conferred by the Hon’ble Court, which also facilitated participation in the IBA meetings held from 07.12.2023 to 26.08.2024, including signing of the 9^th Joint Note on Officers’ Wage Revision on 08.03.2024 by 12 elected representatives of our organisation.

7.         Coinciding with the 45^th foundation of our organisation, we call upon our State Committees and Affiliated Units to actively participate in the programmes culminating in the two days proposed strike by the last week of March 2025. We reproduce the full text of our communication dated 13.02.2025 addressed to 8 constituent unions, the contents of it are self-explanatory.

With 45^th foundation greetings,

  Yours Comradely,

(S. NAGARAJAN)

TEXT OF OUR LETTER NO. ORG:46:2025 DATED 13.02.2025 SENT

TO ALL GENERAL SECRETARIES OF 8 CONSTITUENT UNIONS :

Comrades,

COLLECTIVE ACTION PROGRAMMES TO REALISE THE DEMANDS.

We are confident that our earlier communications sent by emails and followed by Registered Post must have been received at your end, explaining therein our concern to include three demands viz. 1. Up-dation of Pension on the  lines of RBI 2.  Enhancement of PLI for Scale I to III officers akin Executives and Board level appointees. Opposing the process of disinvestment in IDBI and restore the Status of Public Sector Bank for IDBI. Out of the three, two were partially covered.

2.         Looking to the statements made in the Parliament on IDBI as well as Recruitment matters, the tone and tenor of the owners are loud and clear.

3.         Looking into the larger unity of the workforce in our Industry and the Officers, who are at the receiving end due to  very many new issues cropping up at various Banks, AIBOA shall associate with the programmes of actions listed out in the communication culminating in the proposed two days strike in the last week of March 2025.

4.         Please take note that in the Strike notice to be served on the authorities by constituent Unions, AIBOA will be represented by the undersigned only, who has been legally conferred right by the court, because of which, in the discussions held by IBA with unions from 07.12.2023 to 26.08.2024, the undersigned participated . Besides, on 8^th March 2024, 12 elected  office bearers were signatories to the 9^th Joint Note on officers wage revision including the undersigned.

Please acknowledge receipt.

Yours Comradely,

/sd./S.NAGARAJAN.

Circular No.4/VIII/2025

14.02.2025.

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

FORTY FIFTH FOUNDING DAY OF OUR ORGANISATION                                     

Our organization was founded on 14.02.1981 at Orange City – Nagpur, 45 years ago, by the founding fathers of the banking trade union established in pre-independence India. The reason which forced them to form our organization was in the background of the then Government at the Centre trying to implement Bhoothalingam Committee recommendations to freeze the Dearness Allowance component i.e., for per point raise of DA the compensation was Rs.1.30 ps & for 4 points rise it was Rs 5.20 only. In addition to this attack on wages, Pillai Committee Recommendations for officers were to be implemented. It was decided to fight back against the then Government at the Centre, but ultimately one of officers’ union backed out at the last minute from the collective resistance approach. Thus, the formation of AIBOA was necessitated to halt the attacks on the workforce by the management and Government combine.

2.         The foundation Conference elected late Com. Prabhat Kar and Com. P.K. Menon as President and General Secretary respectively. Within 4 years period from date of formation, AIBOA submitted the first charter of demands to IBA under their leadership.

3.         AIBOA had very many forward movements made during this period notable amongst them are:

Ø  First Industry wise joint note was signed with AIBOA as national organization.

Ø  Opposed retrograde service conditions imposed like denial of promotions on seniority basis, restricting the sick leave to 540 days instead of 30 days every year without any ceiling, withdrawal closing allowance to officers in administrative offices and denial of Air travel to Officers in Scale I who was at the last stage of their pay scales.

Ø   Introduction of Pension in 1993.

Ø   Securing Computer Increment.

Ø   Post promotion rural service instead of a pre-condition for participation in the Promotion.

Ø  Echoing the requirement of regulated working hours and 5 days week in Feb 2006 and securing the same partially w.e.f. 01.09.2015 and

Ø  Achieving one more pension option in 2010, where 3,30,000 were brought under social security scheme.

4.         One of our affiliates i.e., AIUBOSA was in the forefront to challenge the APAR system in the High Court of Madras in the year 2012 and secured the benefit of Communication of APAR marks to all Officers and Appeal system against the marks awarded, the result of which has benefitted the entire officers’ community in all banks. Further, this affiliate is the one which is instrumental in getting the transfer policy guidelines for officers by its consistent approach and appeals to the managements and also to DFS and finally got the GoI guidelines dated 26.11.2024 for implementation in all Banks.

GLOBAL APPROACH ON AI.

AI IS DEVELOPED AT UNPRECEDENTED SCALE AND SPEED, AND BEING ADOPTED AND DEPLOYED EVEN FASTER. THERE IS A NEED FOR COLLECTIVE GLOBAL EFFORTS TO ESTABLISH GOVERNANCE AND STANDARDS THAT UPHOLD OUR SHARED VALUES, ADDRESS RISKS AND BUILD TRUST.

5.         As on date, our Industry is in the process of transformation, where upskilling of the knowledge is becoming the need of the hour. AI is being utilized to evaluate the APAR and also to effect the transfers of officers in Banks. Undue pressure is heaped on the officers at all levels at Branch level. Compensatory system settled through industry level understandings are altered unilaterally by the present Government. The present trend obtaining in technology driven environment is leading to worrisome.

6.         While we cherish the path pursued by our organization with remarkable imprints in the sands of the time, the retention of jobs and job security of the officers in the present day environment is certainly challenging. The best offensive available to the workforce is to acquire knowledge to deal with the situations. The tagline should be organize, educate and agitate to secure our dignity and self-respect in our Industry and also in the Society at large.

We shall collectively emerge as one man against all offensives let loose by the authorities at Bank level as well as at the industry level and remain more relevant to the society at large. All of us should learn from the farmers struggle and it should be the eye opener to all of us.

WITH FOUNDATION DAY GREETINGS,

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY.

Circular No.3/VIII/2025

07.02.2025

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS.

Comrades,

REALISING THE OLD  OUTSTANDING DEMANDS

 AND

 RECENTLY CROPPED UP ISSUES

THROUGH COLLECTIVE ACTION PROGRAMMES.

To-day there was a communication (dated 07.02.2024) issued under the banner of UFBU listing the old demands as well as the recently cropped up issues for realization through collective action programs culminating in two days’ Strike in the last week of March 2025.

2.         There was a Google Meet held on 04.02.2025 amongst the eight constituent unions, as our organization was not provided with the link, due to the stand taken by us that an individual who is not authorized by AIBOA to remain present in the said meeting. Still, the meeting was conducted and certain decisions were arrived at in the meeting. On behalf of our organization, we have candidly reiterated that three issues are to be included. [1.] Up-dation of Pension on the lines of RBI; [2] Opposing the disinvestment of Government and LIC equities to private entities ; [3] Withdrawal of  Government of India directives on PLI.

3.         In addition to the above, the programs of action should be in two phases. First one to be taken: up-to first week of March 2025 and Second announcement of Strike by giving due notice of minimum 14 days’ notice to all authorities.

4.         Most importantly, the legally conferred right of representation to AIBOA should alone be accepted and not the individual who lost the secret ballot election in May 2023. In the forced absence of the undersigned in the Google meet on 04.02.2025, in spite of many unions expressing clear stand that the undersigned alone be the signatory to the circular, still to-day the individual has signed the circular along with other 8 elected representatives of the constituent unions.

5.         Comrades, we have candidly communicated our stand to all 8 unions in a letter to-day morning. The said communication is reproduced for the information of the officers. We shall be taking appropriate steps to take forward the matter for a logical conclusion.

Please await for our programs of actions.

Yours comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

TEXT OF OUR LETTER NO. ORG:40:2025 DATED 07.02.2025

SENT BY E MAIL TO ALL GENERAL SECRETARIES OF 8 CONSTITUENT UNIONS

Comrades,

PROPOSED PROGRAMS OF ACTIONS

 TO REALISE

THE OLD AND NEW PENDING DEMANDS.

Further to our organisational communications listing out the demands which are to be included, the then UFBU Convenor’s contention on representative Character of AIBOA, and participation of the undersigned as the General Secretary of AIBOA in the talks held by IBA from 07.12.2023 to 26.08.2024, it has been conclusively expressed in clear terms that the Undersigned in his capacity as General Secretary of AIBOA shall alone affix the signature.

2.         As the disinvestment exercise of IDBI is on the fast forward way (expected to be completed by 30.09.2025,) the same be included under opposing column. Equally, under the residual issues both issues are pending : 5 days banking week and Up-dation of Pension on the RBI lines, which were also listed in Strike notice served in January 2023 to CLC along-with other  issues. The issue of micro-management should restrict with withdrawal of directives of Government on PLI as the same was resolved at IBA level on 26.08.2024.

3.         The plan and programmes are to be conducted in two phases, during which period all efforts are to be made to prevail upon on the authorities to resolve the issues, failing which the strike notice can be served adhering to the provisions of law.

4.         In spite of the valid judicial orders in clear terms, AIBOA was kept away in the discussions from 07.12.2023 to 26.08.2024 by the then UFBU Convenor.

5.         While we stand for complete unity of the workers in our Industry, allowing an individual to sign representing AIBOA is absolutely unacceptable, as per the collective decisions of our Secretariat.

6. Please do-not proceed further in this regard.

Yours Comradely,

/sd./S.NAGARAJAN.

Circular No.2/VIII/2025

13.01.2025

TO ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Dear Comrades,

MONETISATION OF LEAVE FARE CONCESSION

ON THE LINES OF STATE BANK OF INDIA.

As you were aware that preceding to the inking of the 9^th Note for officers’ Wage Revision, there were three committees constituted for the purpose of sorting out the issues listed in the charter of demands submitted by four officers’ organisations. Accordingly, to sort out the issues relating to provisions of Leave and also LFC, a committee consisting of six representatives, three from officers’ organisations and  three from management was constituted.

2.         Com. Rupam Roy (AIBOC), Com.Prem Makkar (INBOC) and Ms.Trupti Alti (NOBO) participated in the meetings held on 13^th October 2023, 26^th October 2023 and 7^TH December 2023. There were 28 issues listed and the minutes were duly drawn. One of the issue was LFC, and in respect of which the recommendation by the Committee was “Implementing SBI’S revised policy may be considered”.

3.         The monetisation of LFC which had been renamed as Leave Travel Allowancein SBI and the reimbursement is on declaration basis in lieu of actual travel under LFCand the details in capsule form is provided hereunder.

·         The monetisation of LFC in SBI was introduced with effect from 1.04.2023.

·         The monetisation of LFC can be availed once in four years ie. Surrendering the four year block of LFC.

·         The cash benefit has been worked out based on the Air travel applicable to Officers in Scale II onwards up-to Scale VII.

·         The amount for business class travel per person is Rs 1,98,000.00 and for economy class is Rs 1,32,000.

·         While surrendering the four year block, the notional value is taken 75% of the entitlement.

·         That is in rupee terms it is Rs 1,48,500.00 for Business class travel and Rs 99,000.00 for economy class travel.

·         Whereas, as a Scale I officer, his/her entitlement is restricted  by train in 2^nd A/C. The Amount is Rs 14,100.00 and encashment is available for Rs 10,575.00 .

·         The officers above Scale II , can have the Leave Travel Allowance, for self and three members only, irrespective of the number of dependants.

·         The Leave Travel Allowance works out to Rs 5,94,000.00 for the Business Class executives and for Scale II, it is Rs 3,96,000.00.

·         The  Income tax on the  LTA will be deducted (app.30%)

·         In the event of officers prefer to avail the LFC, the number of dependants, (which is restricted to 3 for LTA,) all are allowed to undertake the journey.

4.         The above issue was presented before the then Chairman Negotiating team of IBA headed by Shri. M.V. Rao, MD&CEO Central Bank of India, on 13.02.2024 at IBA office, Mumbai. Our organisation could analyse the developments of the approach of the  negotiators, after our entry due to court directives. On the contentious issue of 5 day week and monetisation of LFC it was unanimously decided that all the five officers organisations should resort to direct action to secure the above two benefits.  Ultimately, in spite of  persuasions repeatedly not to fast forward the action, the date fixed for inking the 9^th Joint Note on 11.03.2024 at Chennai was preponed to 08.03.2024 at MUMBAI. Thus the issue of 5 day week as well as monetisation of LFC for officers other than SBI have been left high and dry.

5.         The total workforce in the industry has been denied of the Work-Life balance due to non-securing the 5 day week, whereas LIC workforce got the benefit from 1.04.2021 and enhanced Dearness Allowance compensation of 108.10% from 1.08.2017 onwards.

6.         Number of officers denied of the monetisation of LFC :

·         Total number of officers as on 31.03.2022.                              : 396 920.

·         SBI OFFICERS ALREADY BENEFITED FROM 1.04.2023 : 106,607.

·         NO of officers in Public Sector Banks.                               : 290,313.

·         40% are Scale I officer.                                                             : 116,132.

·         Remaining officers from Scale II to Scale VII denied

of the monetary compensation.                                             : 174,199.

7.         Hope, Officer Comrades of Public Sector banks are aware that subsequent to 9^th Joint note SBI officers were granted Grade pay of Rs 4000 for completion of 16 years of service upto 24 years and Rs 12500 on Completion of 24 years of service with effect from.1.08.2024.  ,This amount attract D.A, HRA and superannuation benefits.

To sum it up ;

 ALL ARE EQUAL AND

SOME ARE MORE THAN EQUAL.

8.  The time has come to halt the double standards and discriminations in our Industry.

Yours Comradely,

/S.NAGARAJAN/

GENERAL SECRETARY

Circular No.1/VIII/2025

01.01.2025

TO

ALL STATE COMMITTEES / AFFILIATED UNITS:

Comrades,

THE HIGHS AND LOWS OF THE YESTERYEAR.

MORE THINGS CHANGE, MORE THEY STAY THE SAME –

TRUE FOR 2025 TOO.

The old world order ravels and the new order tries to emerge, both politically and economically, the sameness will be messier- the saying goes.

2.         The yesteryear was one of tumultuous one for the world. Russia vs Ukraine war continued with the certain more aggressive steps initiated from both the sides. The outgoing President of USA Biden gave permission to fire US-supplied long range missiles at Russia. The recent trial of attacks by Drones by Ukraine escalated the tension further. The President-elect Donald assuming office may stop extending support to Ukraine financially as well as assistance in providing military arsenals to Ukraine, as he had promised to end the war in his election campaign. The Russian leader has expressed his desire to have peace talks with certain conditionalities. The future of war depends on two factors a) Russian Military is making gains in the battlefield and  b) Mr. Trump is assuming the office on Jan 20,2025. 

3.         The present crisis in West Asia is more severe than that of Ukraine. Unleashing the attacks on GAZA in October 2023, due to cross border raid by Hamas, so far 44000 Palestinians have been killed during 2024. An escalation of the invasion in Lebanon resulted in killing the top leadership of Hezbollah, followed by an attack on Iranian Embassy in Damascus culminating in a war between Iran and Israel. Taking advantage of the internal conflict within Syria, Israel grabbed more land in Golan Heights. The internal conflict within Syria resulted in direct loss to Iran and also to Russia. Syria provided an air base and also a Naval Base to Russia. Due to the serious conflicts one after another by Israel, internationally, Israel has been isolated. Will Donald Trump’s assuming office provide any relief to present crisis?

4.         Rising Superpower - China wants to expand its influence, while U.S - the reigning power wants to curtail its influence. The President elect has already threatened to impose heavy tariffs on Chinese goods, which will resultant in trade tensions globally. Both nations are commanding their superiority in the Technology. The stand of USA in respect of Taiwan adds further tension. The cold war continues to heat up further.

5.         The demand of Bangladesh for Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India, the falling rating of the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and withdrawal of the senior cabinet colleagues support to him, the David Camp Accord by the 39^th President of USA Jimmy Carter between Egypt and Israel and emerging one more threat to take the control of Panama Canal by the President elect Mr. Trump are the starring and stark realities of international developments, which are to be unfolded in 2025. 

6.         The seven phases of election conducted to elect the New Lok Sabha concluded in May 2024 participated by 63.9 crore voters out of the total Indian electorate of 96.9 crores. The ruling dispensation could not get the majority to form the Government at the centre. However, the TDP and JD(U) extended support to form the Government. In return, initially, they insisted for special status for Andhra and Bihar, while providing the financial support. They finally relented from their original demands.

7.         The Global average temperature recorded on 12.07.2024 was 17.16*C. This was Earth’s warmest day ever. The recent summit by United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP) was held at Baku (Azerbaijan) from November 11 to 22, 2024. The emphasis was on climate finance to developing Countries. To facilitate the international trading of carbon credits, creation of a registry at UN was insisted upon.

8.         On 17^th November 2024, 5 lacs domestic passengers took off on 3100 planes, creating a new aviation milestone for the country. Ms. Manu Bhaker, an Indian Shooter, won 2 medals in 2024 Olympic Games. She is the first Indian to win two medals in a single Olympic Games. Our Hockey team won back to back Olympic hockey medals after 52 years. Master Gukesh aged 18 became the youngest world chess champion defeating Chinese player Mr. Ding Liren. Ms. Vinesh Phogat, Indian wrestler lost the Olympic medal due to 100 gm extra weight.

9.         In the NEET-UG (MBBS entrance Exam) which stirred a major controversy due to 67 participants securing 720 marks out of 720 in the examination, led to police investigation. The increase in search engine in Google was3800%. $ 6 billion value of iPhones that Apple shipped from our country- a record so far. The rapid adoption EVs in 2023-24 was 1095 every day compared to 215 in 2020-21.

10.       On 30^th July 2024, a small serene village in Kerala’s Wayanad District, along with the nearby villages was ravaged by three consecutive landslides killing nearly 400 people. This was one of the worst calamities that struck in our Country. On 18^th December 2024, a collusion between ferry and an Indian Navy Speedboat in the Arabian Sea off Coast of Mumbai claimed 15 lives raising concerns about safety and alleged negligence by the Navy.

11.       One of best Statesman acknowledged by the world leaders Dr. Manmohan Singh, Shri. N. Vaghul, an illustrious Banker par excellence, Shri. S.M .Krishna, a shrewd political personality, Mr. Zakir Hussain an Indian Table player and Com. Sitaram Yetchury a Marxist leader acknowledged by every party- our Country lost the notable personalities in the yesteryear.

12.       The dance of democracy, which gave a slight hope for the opposition national party, could not draw the same strength in Haryana and Maharashtra state elections. The freebies offered by the State Governments unmindful of the strains of the economy made the scales to twist and that too by the women voters at large. The winter session of the Parliament had its severe and serious adjournments. One Nation One Election amendments, Waqf Board amendment bill, Manipur crisis and inflation control were the prominent issues hanging on fire at present.

GREAT MINDS HAVE PURPOSES

OTHERS HAVE WISHES.

Yours Comradely,

S.NAGARAJAN.

GENERAL SECRETARY