On Thursday, 19/03/2026, Shri. M. S. Adasul, President NCOA/ GS SNEA and Shri V. K. Tomar, Chairman, GC, NCOA/GS MEA CHQ, had a meeting with the Economic Advisor / Joint Secretary, DPE and strongly raised the issue of non-implementation of the IDA revision order in certain CPSEs including BSNL/MTNL.
NCOA also elaborated on the issues faced in implementation of the present IDA order and confusion due to conditions under para 5 for deciding financial implementation by the Administrative Ministry. We narrated current happenings in the DoT, the Telecom Administrative Ministry and PSUs under DoT like BSNL/MTNL and other PSUs about implementation of IDA OM dated 27/02/2026 and how efforts are being made to deny or delay the payment of increased IDA w.e.f. Jan 2026.
During the meeting, we have highlighted that:
- The inclusion of the clause relating to financial implications in Para 5 of the OM has created ambiguity.
- The responsibility being left to Administrative Ministries for deciding implementation has resulted in confusion and delays.
- Further, non-endorsement of the OM to CPSEs has compounded the issue and led to avoidable implementation hurdles.
The Economic Advisor gave a patient hearing and after elaborate discussions assured that:
- The IDA revision order for the April quarter will be issued in a timely manner in the early fortnight of April 2026.
- The reference to financial implications will be removed from all future Oms for IDA increase/decrease.
- Copies of the fresh IDA OM will be marked/endorsed to all CPSEs by DPE as were marked earlier.
- The OM will also be uploaded on the DPE website to ensure transparency and accessibility to all CPSEs for its implementation as happened earlier.
NCOA also urged DPE to clarify to Administrative Ministries and CPSEs, wherever required, to ensure uniform and immediate implementation of the IDA orders across all CPSEs.
The Economic Advisor assured that the matter will be taken up, and the concerned Joint Director will coordinate with the respective Administrative Ministries to resolve the issues reported if any.
In addition, certain broader issues concerning BSNL were also discussed wherein it was highlighted that:
- Despite operating under challenging conditions in the telecom sector, BSNL employees are making dedicated and sincere efforts to sustain and improve business performance.
- There is a need to recognize the committed contribution of the workforce, especially under adverse circumstances in the telecom sector and meeting requirements of all missions & projects of the Government of India.
- Implementation of the 3rd PRC is essential for maintaining minimum motivation levels among employees.
The Economic Advisor acknowledged these concerns and appreciated the efforts of BSNL and its employees, recognizing their contribution in sustaining business and operational strategies under difficult conditions and earning about Rs 24000 Crore topline revenue in all these odd conditions and circumstances.
In conclusion of the meeting we conveyed thanks for sparing time and for firm action for restoration of earlier procedure for review of IDA and its implementation and payment on a quarterly basis.
