Dear Comrades,
We are pleased to inform you that the office bearers of the FCI Employees Association (CITU), under the esteemed leadership of Dr. A Sampath ji, recently held a meeting with the General Manager of FCI Kerala. The meeting was highly productive and several critical issues were discussed, focusing on the welfare and operational efficiency of our employees. Here are the key agenda points that were addressed:
1 Deployment of Class IV to Category III Posts: We
discussed the acute staff shortages in the northern districts of Palakkad, Calicut, and Kannur. Specific issues at depots like Thikkodi, Meenagadi, and Kuttipuram were highlighted, including the need for additional QC staff to ensure smooth operations. The management has assured us that eligible Class IV employees will be promoted to Category III posts to address these shortages.
2 Consideration of Maximum Request Transfers: The facilitation of employee transfer requests to ensure their well-being and operational efficiency was emphasized. The management is committed to considering pending transfer requests and minimizing longer-distance transfers. Leftover cases will be considered
3 Empanelment of Hospitals: We urged the expansion of the list of empanelled hospitals to provide better healthcare options for employees. This will ensure timely and adequate medical care for all staff members.
4 Provision of Canteen Facilities: We requested the establishment of canteen facilities in all depots and divisional offices for the convenience of our employees.
5 Night Shift Posting for Female Class IV Staff: To ensure safety and comfort, we requested that female Class IV staff not be assigned night shifts due to the lack of adequate facilities.
6 Freeze Vindictive Actions: We demanded the halting of all vindictive actions taken by the Calicut Divisional Manager and the exoneration of employees from charge sheets, show cause notices, and memos.
7 Training for QMS Application: Comprehensive training for all employees on the newly launched QMS application was requested to ensure efficient use and smooth transition.
8 Supply of New Light Traps: We emphasized the need for new light traps in all depots to enhance preservation efforts.
9 Shortage of Ancillary Labour: Addressing the shortage of ancillary labour for general cleaning and QC works was discussed, with a commitment to resolving this issue.
10 Maintenance of Godowns: Periodical maintenance of godowns, including roof repairs and addressing cracks and crevices, was highlighted as a critical need.
11 Inter-District Cultural and Sport Activities: We proposed organizing inter-district cultural and sports activities to promote employee engagement and well-being.
12 Delay in EPF Pension Sanctioning: The delay in the sanctioning of EPF pensions for labourers and employees was brought to the management’s attention for urgent resolution.
13 Implementation of Creche Facility: We requested the establishment of creche facilities in various offices across the region to support working parents.
14 Installation of Mini Gyms: The installation of mini gyms in as many locations as possible was proposed to promote employee health and fitness.
15 Supply of Computers: Ensuring the supply of a sufficient number of computers at both DO and depot levels was discussed to enhance operational efficiency.
16 Inclusion of General Cleaning in Handling Contracts: We suggested including provisions for general cleaning of godowns in the handling contract MTF.
17 Harmonious Working Atmosphere: Promoting a cordial and harmonious working atmosphere between management and employees was stressed.
18 Abnormal Disciplinary Actions: We requested the cessation of abnormal disciplinary actions related to SG, SL, and TL issues.
19 Formation of Internal Complaints Committees: Establishing Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) in all depots and divisional offices was proposed to address grievances and ensure a safe working environment.
20 Withdraw Wrong Policy to Rent Out FCI Godowns and Lands: We urged the management to reconsider the policy of renting out FCI godowns and lands to CWC and private parties, highlighting potential operational inefficiencies and conflicts of interest.
21 Implement Staff Regulation 82 on Promotion: We called for the implementation of Staff Regulation 82 for pay-fixation on promotion, in compliance with court orders, and requested the consideration of representations from employees and retirees regarding pay-fixation.
22 Contribution to Kerala Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund: We requested arrangements to contribute a minimum of one day's salary of FCI employees to the Kerala Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund to support immediate and long-term relief efforts for the recent calamities in the state.
We are pleased to report that the meeting was highly positive, and the management responded favorably to all the points raised. We appreciate their willingness to address our concerns and work towards the betterment of our organization and employees.
Yours Fraternally
Gibin Varghese
GS, FCI EA CITU