Latest News from Chairman / Vice Chairman IESM: 2009

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

IESM: 31 Jan 2010 next Medal Surrender to seek OROP

Dear Colleagues,

Hav Gurmel Singh called up (again) Dec 27 from DBN, Gurdaspur, Punjab. They had a rally of ESM the previous day that was attended by a number of senior veterans and some politicians. The latter expressed full support for OROP and promised to keep raising the issue in the State Assembly as well as in the Parliament. Gurmel is heading an ESM organisation and expressed full accord with the IESM aims, objectives and methodology. I informed him of the next date for depositing medals ie 31 Jan 2010. He assured that he would disseminate the message and will ask maximum veterans to deposit their medals.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Greeting and New Year Resolve by Maj Gen Satbir Singh

NEW YEARS GREETINGS AND OUR RESOLVE TO INTENSIFY

OUR PROTEST MOVEMENT AGAINST INJUSTICE

Dear Friends

1. Firstly, Please accept my sincere greetings for the New Year “2010”. May the New Year bring happiness, good health and satisfying life for all Defence Personnel both veterans and serving and all members of their families.

2. Secondly, I sincerely pray to God to bless all veterans “With” “Unity and Strength” to strongly fight against the Injustice by successive Govts. Let our Protest Movement be intensified and executed peacefully and in a dignified manner. The pressure of the Protest Movement be built to such an intensity that the Govt see the “light of the Day” and accepts of legitimate demand of “Military Pensions” of equal service equal rank- Equal Pension irrespective of the date of retirement (which is referred to as OROP)

3. Thirdly, we pray, our next event of Medal Deposit at Jantar Mantar on 31 Jan 2009 from 10 AM to 2 PM be a grand success. Each district of the country where Ex servicemen are residing to please contribute voluntarily atleast 2000 medals. I pray, the medal collection campaign gets into “Top Gear” with the dawn of “Near Year 2010”

4. Fourthly, we pray our ie IESM membership to rise to such large numbers that our two million ESM have a “say” to get “Justice” in the country and be able to live in peace, harmony, dignity and respect befitting a “Veteran Solider”

With Kind Regards,

Jai Hind

Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email : satbirsm@yahoo.com

Letter to Shri Rahul Gandhi from Chairman IESM

From :Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman
262, Sector – 17, Gurgaon – 122001.

December 29, 2009
ESM/09

I write this to request your help persuading the Government to look at `One Rank One Pension’ (OROP) favourably. You would perhaps be aware t that the ex-servicemen, after having failed to convince the authorities through meetings and presentations, went public with their demand for (OROP) in April 2008 and have been doing so ever since.
OROP is a demand for justice and equity and not for more money per se. If the government cannot afford the pension expenses, let them pay lower pensions across the board but there should no discrimination against the old pensioners. The ex-servicemen are merely demanding that equal pension be paid for equal service rendered, as per the law of `natural justice’. This demand is over 25 years old and successive governments have failed to accept this reasonable demand. Nor has there been any convincing reason for non-acceptance of the demand.
The ex-servicemen were greatly enthused when the President of India mentioned term `OROP’ in her address to the opening session of the Parliament on 4th June, 2009. Subsequently, the Hon’ble Ministers of Defence and Finance also used words in the parliament suggestive of the government granting OROP. However, what is actually planned to be done has no connection with OROP and is a mere removal of the dividing line between pensioners of pre-October 1997 and post this date till 31st December, 2005. The dividing line created by the 6th Pay Commission with 1.1.2006 as the water shed still continues to remain. Conveying an impression, knowingly or unwittingly, that the government was considering grant of OROP and then giving mere one time enhancement to old pensioners, has only salted the wounds of the ex-servicemen community. This has further strengthened their resolve to continue their struggle till their just demand of OROP is met. They have already been depositing their medals with the President and will increase its intensity. I do not believe this is a good thing to happen in our country.
Considering the larger implication of `keeping the defence veterans/forces unhappy, I will request you, as the future leader of the country to kindly prevail upon the government to grant OROP.

Yours sincerely,

(Raj Kadyan)

Shri Rahul Gandhi, MP

Sunday, December 27, 2009

ESM sitrep 27 Dec evening

From: raj kadyan [mailto:rajkadyan@yahoo.com]

Sent: 27 December 2009 20:30

Subject: ESM sitrep 27 Dec evening

Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of the IESM I extend a hearty welcome to the following 56 new members into the family. I also compliment veteran Sub Maj/Hony Lt Kameshwar Pandey for motivating them to join the Movement:
1. Sgt Ram Raj Shrivastava
2. Nk Hawa Singh
3. Hav Dharampal Huda
4. Hav Ramdhan
5. Sub B P Chhetri
6. Risaldar Sukhdev Singh
7. Sub/Maj Satvinder Singh
8. W/O Nand Kishor
9. Sgt Dharam Pal Singh
10. JWO Ram Sewak Pal
11. Sub Hans Raj
12. Sgt Madan Pal
13. Sgt RNS Yadav
14. W/O GD Dubey
15. W/O AS Chaubey
16. Hony Capt. Ram Prakash
17. Sub Vijay Shankar Singh
18. JWO Radhey Shyam Pal
19. JWO Ram Autar Prasad
20. Sgt Bhim Singh
21. Hav Brahm Dutt
22. JWO (late) Shmt. Pramsheela Chaubey
23. Sgt SR Mehta
24. Hony/Lt. Baldev Singh
25. RFN Surin Lal Singh
26. Sub/Maj SP Sharma
27. Hav Nathuni Mahto
28. Hony. Sub/Maj DD Chaubey
29. Nk Singh Ram
30. CFN Bijendra Kumar
31. Sep (late) Saroj Bala
32. Hav Chaatar Pal Singh
33. PO SS Ahlawat
34. Hav Ram Nivas
35. Hony Capt Jagdish Singh
36. Sub/Maj Hem Raj
37. Hav Rajendar Singh Mankotia
38. Sub Jagan Ram
39. Sub Kartar Singh
40. JWO SBS Rathore
41. Nk Prahlad Singh
42. Sub Mahavir Singh
43. W/O Prem Lal
44. Hony Lt Dinesh Pati
45. Hony Capt Babu Ram
46. Hav Mahavir Singh
47. Grenadier Suraj Bhan
48. Nk Attar Singh
49. Nk Bachan Singh
50. Hony Capt KK Tiwari
51. Hony Capt N C Sharma
52. Sub Baldev Raj
53. POME Subhosh Chander
54. Hav Jai Prkash
55. Hav Bhim Singh
56. Hav Om Prakash Dutt
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PV

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

ESM sitrep 20 Dec evening

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com

Sent: Sun, 20 December, 2009 9:12:11 PM

Subject: ESM sitrep 20 Dec evening

Dear Colleagues,
As you would know from media reports, this year on Vijay Diwas the gathering at India Gate included many that fall under the category of political who-is-who. In contrast last year Mr Dig Vijay Singh was the sole representative of the ruling Congress Party. All other things remaining the same, it would be correct to infer that the ESM as a community have come to be recognised. Credit goes to those whose struggle has got this recognition

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

IESM MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING HELD ON 13 DEC 2009 AT NOIDA

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL BODY MEETING
HELD ON 13 DEC 09 AT AVCC SECTOR 37 NOIDA

WELCOME ADDRESS BY GEN SEC GP CAPT VK GANDHI VSM
**********************************************************

The Annual General Body meeting of IESM was attended by more than 400 members from Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jammu and Kashmir, Kerala and Chandigarh. The meeting started at 1000h. Gen Sec Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM welcomed the members and noted that the corum was not complete adjourned the meeting and declared that meeting will reassemble after 30 min as per the company rule.

2. The AGM reassembled at 1035h with more than 400 members present and the proceedings and deliberations started.

3. Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM welcomed the members and read out the agenda for the meeting. He requested the Chairman Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan PVSM, AVSM VSM to address the meeting.

CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS
***********************

LT GEN (EMERITUS) RAJ KADYAN PVSM, AVSM, VSM
******************************************************

4. Chairman addressed the assembly and explained to all that the IESM has been successful in bringing the OROP to the centre stage of the Government Radar. IESM is always careful of the image of the armed forces and would never take any step which would adversely affect the image of armed forces in public eye. Infact he commended the veterans that they have maintained their semblance while protesting for their rights and demands. It is this dignified behavior of the veterans which is being appreciated by all the countrymen. He further explained that there is no quick fix solution to the demand of OROP and it would be a long drawn fight with the Government. Veterans of the armed forces have the experience and knowledge of the Government functioning and their methods of taking decisions. This struggle would therefore be long and tedious and would have to be fought patiently. He also expressed that the novel idea of depositing the medals to the President of India is indeed very effective and the Government has no answer to this form of protest by the veterans. He explained to the house that even Government functionaries are clueless about how to tackle this problem of medal return. He told the house that the fact that the RRM Sh Pallamraju has made a statement in the Lok Sabha that the Government has accepted the recommendations of Cabinet secretary committee and hence all the veterans should take back their medals honourably. This indicates that the Government is uncomfortable with the return of medals by the veterans and does not have any answer to this problem. He explained to the members that recommendations of Cabinet Secretary Committee are far short of the demands of IESM hence there is no question of taking back the medals. He further exhorted the house that this method of protest of returning the medals should be intensified and IESM should continue to return the medals in very large numbers to the President to increase pressure on the Government. He further informed the house that IESM has asked for an appointment with the President of India and also with the Raksha Mantri but our request had still not been accepted because they do not have any suitable reply for our demands and our method of protest. Next date of returning of medals would be announced soon.

5. He informed the house that with the effort of IESM;

· The government has been forced to accept two demands of having a separate pay commission for the armed forces and of constituting an ESM Commission. Both these are part of IESM demands
· Two major political parties, BJP and CPM included the OROP issue in their election manifesto by categorically stating that if voted to power, they would sanction OROP. It may be relevant to recall that the same BJP had not sanctioned OROP during their over six years NDA rule.
· The President of India included mention of the term OROP in her address to the opening session of the Parliament on 04 June 2009. This was the first time in India’s history that the ‘taboo’ word was used by the First Citizen of the country.
· Substantial pension benefits for pre 1997 PBOR are in the pipe line and an amount of Rs 2144 Crore has already been set aside for this purpose.

6. He further told the house that three division of the IESM have been accepted by the veterans and all the veterans are very appreciative of the work done by the divisions. Many veterans are approaching these divisions with their problems and veterans are being helped in all possible ways.

7. The Chairman also informed the house that it is very important to increase the members of IESM because increased number of members increases the strength of IESM and would put more pressure on the Government. He informed the house that in deference to the desire of the many veterans it has been decided to reduce the membership fee for the new members for a period of one month upto 16 Jan 10. As per this amnesty, during this one month an officer would pay a subscription of Rs 100, a JCO would pay Rs 40 and a sepoy would pay Rs 10 as against existing Rs 500 for officers, Rs 200 for JCOs and Rs 100 for ORs. He hoped that this would generate greater response from the veterans and there would be manifold jump in the numbers of members of IESM. The decision would be reviewed after one month.

8. He wished all the veterans very best in New Year and exhorted them to continue to put in their full efforts and make this movement successful.

TREASURER SPEECH; MAJ GEN PK RENJEN AVSM
**************************************************

9. Treasurer Maj Gen Renjen explained the details to the account statement to the house and replied to the queries of the members. Account statement was passed with voice vote with no dissent.

10. It was proposed by one member that expenses incurred by members of the Governing Body on a day to day basis in doing their official IESM activities should be reimbursed, which is a norm with all societies and organisations. All members present appreciated the dedication with which functionaries of IESM are working and spending money from their own pockets for day to day expenditure incurred by them on IESM activities. The member expressed that it cannot go on for long and would, sooner or later, adversely affect the commitment of its officials and IESM functioning. The proposal was supported by all members attending the AGM by show of hands. However, it was explained that IESM does not have adequate funds at present to reimburse such expenses and that a decision in this regard may be pended for later. The Governing Body re-iterated its commitment and willingness to work for the IESM pro-bono and meet their individual day to day expenses for the same from their own pockets. It was further declared that a guideline on type and quantum of expenditure that may be so reimbursed to the members of the Governing Body will be circulated before a decision is taken on the issue.

11. Treasurer also explained that in this year donations have reduced as compared to last year and till end of November IESM has spent more than the income for the year. He exhorted all the members to help arrange for donations for IESM to meet expenditure for day to day running and arranging protest marches/rallies. There was an instant response and all present agreed to make their best attempts to arrange for more donations. Following two ESMs immediately came forward to contribute for IESM.
· Col RL Goel agreed to give Rs 10000/ every year for IESM.
· Cdr Pran Prashar gave a cheque of Rs 7000 for IESM. He has given donation to IESM at earlier occasions also.

12. Treasurer informed all present that the conveners of UP, Mahrarashtra, Tamilnadu and Karnataka have done very good work and have enrolled maximum veterans as member of IESM. Efforts put in by following conveners were appreciated by the house.
· Hony capt SN Sharma from Kanpur Uttar Pradesh
· Cdr Ravi Warsha Pathak from Pune Maharashtra
· Col TN Raman from Chennai Tamilnadu
· Col Rajan from Bangaluru Karnataka

13. Full speech of the Treasurer Maj Gen PK Renjen AVSM is attached at annexure I.

SELECTION OF CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT
****************************************

14. Chartered accountant M/s Rajiv Varun and company were approved by the house with voice vote for the year 2009-10..

POINTS FROM THE MEMBERS
******************************

15. Brig Kuthalia, Member ECHS div, explained to the house that he is looking for volunteers for working with the ECHS polyclinics. He appreciated the work done by the veterans in polyclinic in Secunderabad. He explained to the house that at the moment there are 227 polyclinics are functioning and in next three years another 197 polyclinics would be set up to look after the health of veterans. He further informed the house that the MD ECHS has a very positive approach and gives full support to the suggestions of the IESM.

16. Lt Gen Jagdish Chander explained the working of the CSD canteen and profit sharing formula of the CSD. It was pointed out by the veterans that profit earned by the CSD canteens from the veterans should be spent for the welfare of the veterans. He accepted that the proposal was good and would be taken up with the authorities.

17. Col Vikaram Singh informed the house that the IESM has made a deep impact on the Government and asked all the veterans across the country to give full support to IESM and put more pressure on Government. He informed the house that he is planning an all India meet of the veterans in Mathura and invited all veterans to attend the meet. Date and venue will be informed after the details are finalised..

MAJ GEN SATBIR SINGH SM VICE CHAIRMAN
**********************************************

18. Maj Gen Satbir Singh implored all present to put in their full might to increase pressure on the Govt. He asked all present to take a vow that each district should make 2000 members and also should collect a minimum of 2000 medals for returning to the President. This is the only way in which we can increase the strength of IESM and return a large number of medals to the President..

NEW MEMBERS
************

19. Fifty eight new members joined IESM during the AGM with effort of Hony Capt Dheer Singh of Gurgaon..

RETURN OF MEDALS
****************

20. More than 500 medals were returned with the effort of Hony Captain Rathee from Jhajjar..

CLOSING ADDRESS BY GEN SEC GP CAPT VK GANDHI VSM
**********************************************************

21. General Secretary thanked following on behalf of IESM Governing Body for successful conduct of Annual General Body meeting of IESM.

All present for attending the first Annual General Body meeting of IESM.
The management of Arun Vihar Community Centre for providing the AVCC and the facilities for smooth conduct of the AGM.

President AVCC RS Pathania for sponsoring the tea and snacks by the AVCC as a welfare measure for ex-servicemen.
Press and media for covering the AGM in detail.

22. There being no other point the meeting was closed at 1300h.

23. Picture’s of the meeting are enclosed. (Not attached with this email)

Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222
Date 14 Dec 2009

-------

Annexure I To Min of AGM
Of IESM Held on 13 Dec 09.

MAJ GEN RENJEN AVSM TREASURER’S SPEECH TO THE AGM OF IESM ON 13 DEC 09

The Treasurer’s Statement at the AGM on 13 Dec, 2009
Financials as on 31 Mar, 2009
1. Receipts

a) Membership Fee – 9,15,180.00
b) Donations – 14,28,204.00
c) Total – 23,43,384.00

2. Expenditure – 5,75,363.00
3. Balance

a) Fixed Deposits – 16,00,000.00
b) Cash, Bank & others – 1,68,021.00
c) Total - 17,68,021.00

4. Explanation on Expenditure.

a) Mostly on Dharnas/ Rallies and associated items.
b) Nothing has been spent to reimburse expenses incurred on a daily basis by the members of the Governing Body (also known as the Steering committee).
c) Legal & professional Charges of Rs. 25,000/- are towards the retainer given to Advocate Nidesh Gupta to fight our case for ‘one rank one pension’ as and when it is decided to file the suit. Advocate Nidesh Gupta is the same lawyer who had won the Maj Gens case in the Supreme Court in Sep 2008.
Answer Questions by members, if any.
Balance Sheet for 2008 – 09 put to vote for approval.
Appointment of Auditors for the current year (2009 – 10)

5. The present auditors M/S Rajiv Varun & Co were appointed at an annual consideration of Rs 48,000.00, to conduct the statutory audit as also to maintain our accounts on a fortnightly basis. They have done their task most commendably.
6. It is proposed to re-appoint M/S Rajiv Varun & Co for the current year too on the same terms and conditions and the approval of the General body is sought for the same.

Additional Comments by the Treasurer
Brief on Financials of 01 Apr, 2009 to 30 Nov, 2009
7. Receipts

a) Membership Fee – 5,72,100.00
b) Donations – 4,23,869.00
c) Total – 9,95,969.00
8. Expenditure – 4,96,547.00
9. Balance
a) Fixed Deposits – 19,00,000.00
b) Cash, Bank & others – 3,24,542.00
c) Total – 22,24,542.00

10. Explanation on Expenditure.
a) Besides expenditure on centrally conducted Dharnas/ Rallies and associated items, which have reduced, there have also been expenses incurred locally by the Convenors at different places for their activities for mobilising greater membership – like, gatherings, printing and travel etc.
b) Once again, nothing has been spent to reimburse expenses incurred on a daily basis by the members of the Governing Body (also known as the Steering committee).
c) Additional, wholly unnecessary, expense is being incurred this year to defend the suit filed against IESM by Col Bhardwaj through his wife, Mrs Shiksha Bhardwaj in conjunction with Maj Jakhar, Hav Balwan and Hav Sheoran. Basic information about the suit filed by these personnel have already been informed to all.

Implications of Income Tax Regulations Governing Expenditure

11. Revenues against Life Membership Fee, which is what we have, cannot be used for day to day expenditure for our activities. We may, however, spend it to create physical assets. The receipts under this head are to be kept in a ‘Corpus’ Fund to give strength to the Organisation.

12. Revenues against donations can only be spent up to 85% of receipts under this head. 15% of receipts are also to be transferred to the ‘Corpus’ Fund. However, this 15% can be spent for our activities, if required, by a special resolution of the Governing Body.

13. While last year, in just 3 months of our existence, we had received donations of Rs 14,28,204.00 and had saved Rs 6,38,610.00 for spending in future years, if required. But, this year in the last 8 months, we have received only Rs 4,23,869.00 and have overspent Rs 1,36,258.00 already. The balance available for spending, therefore, not counting the 15% put away in to ‘Corpus’ is only Rs 5,02,352.00.

14. The imperative for more donations to sustain IESM needs no further explanation. Increased membership alone will not help.

15. Many members have been critical of The Governing Body (also known as The Steering Committee) for reasons like;

a) Non despatch of Membership Cards,
b) Non allotment of Membership Nos,
c) Names not entered in the members’ list,
d) Tardy response to members’ queries on the above issues,
e) Wrong data entries – duplicates, spelling errors etc,
f) Web site not user friendly,
g) No response to members’ ‘Feedback’ comments posted on the web site and many more complaints.

16. All the criticism is fully justified. In fact, today I have over 400 members whose names are yet to be entered in the list. We may give any amount of assurances of a better response but, if the truth be said, we can do no better. Due to shortage of funds, we have been unable to rent and set up an office and hire minimal staff. We work from homes and the work is such that we have never done before in life.

17. The Chairman has recently announced drastic reductions in the Membership Fee, as a trial measure, for a month. The hope is that the reduction will encourage more ESM to join. That may well happen but would be truly useful only if donations increase manifold alongside. Otherwise, we will not be able to service the new members and there will be many more complaints than now. Worse, the IESM’s sustenance will become difficult.

18. My purpose of giving the above implications was to acquaint you with realities and to request you all to mobilise donations from ESM and the corporate world..

Monday, December 14, 2009

ESM sitrep 13 Dec evening

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com

To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in; TRUNCATED

Sent: Sun, 13 December, 2009 8:51:05 PM

Subject: ESM sitrep 13 Dec evening
Dear Colleagues,
The first AGM of IESM was held as per schedule in NOIDA today. It was attended by over 400 ESM from different States – Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, UP, HP, Punjab , and Haryana etc. Apart from the customary business of passing of the accounts and selection of auditors, which were done unanimously, the meeting also took stock of the progress made by the IESM in its first year of infancy. It was brought out that even though the OROP issue is yet to be fully resolved by the govt, the IESM can be legitimately proud of the following that have undeniably come about only because of the struggle launched by the Movement:
· The almost forgotten issue of OROP has come on the national radar screen.
· As per media reports, the government has been forced to accept the two demands of having a separate pay commission for the armed forces and of constituting an ESM Commission. Both these are part of IESM demands.
· Two major political parties, BJP and CPM included the OROP issue in their election manifesto by categorically stating that if voted to power, they would sanction OROP. It may be relevant to recall that the same BJP had not sanctioned OROP during their over six years NDA rule.
· The President of India included mention of the term OROP in her address to the opening session of the Parliament on 04 June 2009. This was the first time in India ’s history that the ‘taboo’ word was used by the First Citizen of the country.
· A high level committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary was constituted (on the eve of General Elections) to examine OROP.
· Substantial pension benefits for pre 1997 PBOR are in the pipe line and an amount of Rs 2144 Crore has already been set aside for this purpose.

It was unanimously resolved to continue with the struggle. It was reiterated that the struggle must continue to remain within the ambit of law and discipline, and that we must not do anything that might put the public at inconvenience thereby risking their support and sympathy. Keeping these tenets in mind it was mentioned that after trying out various methods, depositing of medals was found to be the most potent form of protest. It has tremendous psychological significance, high visibility and has left the government groping for an appropriate counter. Admittedly, it is not spectacular and earth-shattering, but it is powerful and lasting in its effect. This must continue.

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Sitrep 05 Dec 2009

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com

Sent: Sat, 5 December, 2009 9:40:34 PM
Subject: ESM sitrep 05 Dec evening

Dear Colleagues,

In view of persistent demand from some ESM, the IESM has decided to offer a special one time amnesty membership offer on reduced fee. From Vijay Diwas (16 December 2009) to Army Day (15 January 2010), both days inclusive, the membership fee is reduced as under:

· Officers – to 20% (pay Rs 100/-instead of Rs 500/-)
· JCOs – to 20% (pay Rs 40/- instead of Rs 200/-)
· Other ranks – to 10% (pay Rs 10/- instead of Rs 100/-)
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM.

AGM 13 Dec 2009 IESM at NOIDA AVCC

AGM NOTICE

AGM OF IESM WILL BE HELD ON 13 DEC 09 AT 1000H TO 1200 AT AVCC
SECTOR 37 NOIDA

ALL MEMBERS OF THE IESM ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND

AGENDA

1. TO PASS THE DULY AUDITED BALANCE SHEET OF THE YEAR 2008-2009.
2. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS FOR THE YEAR 2009-2010
3. DISCUSSION ON POINTS RAISED BY MEMBERS.

REFRESHMENT WILL BE SERVED ON COMPLETION OF THE AGM

Friday, December 4, 2009

AGM OF IESM IS PLANNED FOR 13 DEC 09 AT 1000H TO 1200 AT AVCC SECTOR 37.

AGM NOTICE

AGM OF IESM IS PLANNED FOR 13 DEC 09 AT 1000H TO 1200 AT AVCC SECTOR 37.

ALL MEMBERS OF THE IESM ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE AGM.

AGENDA OF THE AGM

1. TO PASS THE DULY AUDITED BALANCE SHEET OF THE YEAR 2008-2009.
2. APPOINTMENT OF AUDITORS FOR THE YEAR 2009-2010
3. DISCUSSION ON POINTS RAISED BY MEMBERS.

HIGH TEA WILL BE SERVED ON COMPLETION OF THE AGM

13 Dec 2009..NOTICE FOR AGM OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT

NOTICE FOR AGM OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT
on 13 Dec 09, Sunday at 1000h at AVCC sector 37 NOIDA

Dear All

Please refer to the previous notice for AGM dated 27 Oct 09 regarding Annual General Body meeting of IESM.

Due to some administrative problems it is not possible to hold AGM of IESM at Bangalore on 22 Nov 09. AGM of IESM is being rescheduled as given below.

AGM of IESM is now being planned to be held on 13 Dec 09 Sunday at 1000h to 1200h at AVCC, Sector 37 Noida 201301. Agenda for the meeting is given below.

1.Welcome by Gen Sec
2.Address by Chairman.
3.To receive, consider and adopt the audited Balance Sheet as on 31 March 2009, Income & Expenditure Account for the period ended on that date and the Auditor’s Report thereon.
4.To appoint auditors for the year 2009-2010.
5.Discussion on the points raised by the members if any.
6.Vote of thanks.

All members are requested to attend the meeting and send their confirmation of attendance to the Gen Sec at the earliest. All members are requested to make arrangement for travel and stay at Noida/Delhi. Members are requested to forward their points for inclusion in the agenda.

Duly audited account statement of year 08-09 is enclosed, Guide map to reach AVCC noida is attached for the convenience of all members.

Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Letter to all veterans by Gp Capt Gandhi Gen Secy IESM

From: Vinod Gandhi vk_gandhi@yahoo.com
To: DELETED
Sent: Sat, 28 November, 2009 11:58:44 AM
Subject: Misc AGM 091126 Letter to all veterans.

Dear Veterans
IESM is completing one year of its existence in the service of veterans. This one year has been full of hectic activity. It has been possible to bring the One Rank One Pension (OROP) issue, which is so close to heart of every veteran, to centre stage and force Government to admit that the veterans are unhappy because OROP has not been granted to them.
IESM has also started three divisions to help veterans in solving their problems. These divisions are -
1. IESM Pension Division Director Vice Admiral Barin Ghose AVSM bag1944@yahoo. co.in
2. IESM ECHS Division Director Air Marshal Kuldip Rai AVSM kulusha1112@ gmail.com
3. IESM CSD Division Director Lt Gen Jagdish Chander jagimedi@gmail. com
These divisions are working efficiently and helping veterans in solving their problems. Veterans have welcomed these divisions. Suggestions received from the respected veterans are discussed and put in action to ensure that maximum benefit reaches the veterans. The road is long and there is lot of work to do. IESM is determined to help each veteran in remotest possible corner of India and those settled abroad.
While IESM is working for the veterans with full confidence and zeal, few fellow veterans do not seem to like the progress made by IESM. These veterans had joined IESM with their narrow interest or to give a fillip to their personal agenda. On realisation that IESM office bearers will not allow these veterans to pursue their personal agenda, they have separated from IESM and have approached the court to place hurdles in the working of IESM.
A legal notice and a letter sent to Registrar of Societies by these ESM against IESM, with ulterior motives, is attached. A suitable reply has been filed by IESM in the response to the court and to the Registrar Societies. All veterans would be informed about the reply of IESM at a suitable time. It is left to the wisdom of the veterans to decide about the intentions of these misguided veterans.
Another mischievous action taken by Col K Bhardwaj is to call a parallel AGM on 12 Dec 09 at Gurgaon. AGM called by Col K Bhardwaj does not have any sanctity as it does not have approval of Governing body of IESM and is totally illegal and needs to be completely ignored by all veterans.
This is for information of all veterans that official AGM of the IESM is planned on 13 Dec 09 Sunday at 1000 hours at AVCC Noida with the approval of Governing Body of IESM. All veterans are requested to note this and attend the IESM AGM at 1000h at AVCC Noida on 13 Dec 09. Kindly send your confirmation to attend the AGM of IESM at vk_gandhi@yahoo. com
Notice for the AGM of IESM on 13 Dec 09 is given below for the benefit of all veterans.
(The AGM Notice was circulated by “REPORT MY SIGNAL” vide Email 782/2009
on 18 Nov 09)

Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222
---------
RELEVANT EXTRACTS FROM COURT CASE
FILED BY
SMT. SIKSHA BHARADWAJ, WIFE OF COL KANWAR BHARADWAJ
AND PARTY

IN THE COURT OF SENIOR CIVIL JUDGE GURGAON
HARAYANA
CIVIL SUIT NO. OF 2009
IN THE MATTER OF:
Shri Dharam Singh Sheraon,
R/o D-200, Mangala Puri Village,
Palam Colony,
New Delhi.
Smt. Siksha Bharadwaj,
M/o Shaheed Capt. Umang Bharadwaj,
R/o Plot No. 309, Veer Akash,
Sector 18, Dwarka,
New Delhi.
Maj. I.S. Jhakhar
R/o T-12A, Gurgaon.
New Palam Vihar.

Hav. Balwan Singh
R/o 118B, Rajendra Park,
Gurgaon .... Plantiffs
Versus
Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement
543, Sector – 23,
Gurgaon – 122017.
Lt. Gen. Raj Kadyan
R/o 262/17A, Gurgaon.
Maj. Gen. Satbir Singh
R/o 543/23, Gurgaon.
Col. Kanwar Bharadwaj
R/o 774/ 17A, Gurgaon.
Maj. Gen. P.K. Renjen ... Defendants
R/o 18, Kusum Marg (FF),
DLP, Ph-1, Gurgaon.
SUIT FOR PERMANENT & MANDATORY INJUCTION
MOST RESPECTFULLY SHOWETH:
That the Plantiffs are the members of the Defendant No. 1 comprising of ex-servicemen and which registered on 15th .....
PRAYER
On the facts and circumstance of the case it is most respectfully prayed that:
A. To pass a decree of mandatory injunction thereby directing the defendants 2-5 to call the meeting of the general body of the Defendant no. 1 society within a period of 30 days giving 15 days notice to all the members of the defendant no. 1 society.
B. To pass a decree of mandatory injunction thereby directing the defendants 2-5 to hold the election of the Governing Body of Defendant no. 1 within a period of 30 days.
C. To pass a decree of mandatory injunction directing the defendant nos 2-5 to display the entire list of members of the defendant no. 1 society on the notice board to be displayed at the registered office of the defendant no. 1 society.
D. To pass a decree of permanent injunction thereby restraining the defendant nos 2-5 from operating the bank account of the defendant no. 1 society be passed against the defendant nos 2-5.
E. To pass a decree of permanent injunction thereby restraining the defendants nos 2-5 from creating any further sub-committees in the defendant no. 1 society and from appointing any member of the defendant no. 1 society to such committees or sub committees be passed against the defendant nos 2-5.
F. Cost of the suit.
G. Such any other relief or order, which this Hon’ble Court may deem fit and proper, may also be passed in favour of the plaintiff and against the defendant.
Sd xxxxxxxxx
PLANTIFFS
THROUGH
Sd xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxx
(C. K. SHARMA / PANKAJ KR. SINGH)
ADVOCATES
GURGAON
DATED: 7/11/09

------------
RELEVANT EXTRACTS
FROM THE COMPLAINT LODGED BY
COL KANWAR BHARDWAJ
WITH THE REGISTRAR OF FIRMS AND SOCIETIES
GURGAON, HARYANA

INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVENT
An All India Federation Of Military Veterans Organisation
Col Kanwar Bhardwaj, Sena Medal
Gen. Secy-Indian Ex-servicemen Movement
President-Indian Ex-servicemen Movement (Hr.)
Resi: Kothi No 774, Sector-17A,Gurgaon Tel:(O)0124-3260877,(R) 2341155
Mob: 9312666181 E-mail: col_cps@rediffmail.com

To
The Registrar
Firms and Societies
Gurgaon, Haryana
Sub: - FUNCTIONING OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMAN VERIFICATION AND ACTION
Dear Sir,
1. I would like to bring the following to your notice for your necessary action and verification please. The IESM is not functioning in a democratic way and as per the Bye-laws of the Societies. Proceedings of the IESM are not properly recorded, because there is no proper office, staff and necessary equipments, since the office shown is the residence (H. No-543 Scctor-23) Vice-Chairn1an of IESM Maj Gen Satbir Singh. The necessity of the office have been ignored inspite of number of times demand was put up in the meeting of Stg Comt. Agenda point put up for the monthly meeting May 09 of steering committee by Gen Secy was not even considered (Copy of the suggested Agenda points attached).
The management/records of every thing including funds are controlled by Vice Chainman whereas as per the MOA, Gen Secy is do all these things. Even on the registration of MOA Signatories are Chairn1an, Vice Chainman & Treasurer. Why not Gen Secy & why Vice Chairman, shows the intension of the Vice Chairman. Funds have been utilized without proper sanction /resulation passed by the Governing Body. A sum of Rs 35000/- was given to Wing Cdr CK Sharma (member of Stg comtt) for some documentary film.
As Gen Secy I would like to apprise you that right from the day one of IESM till date 6 members out of the Governing Body comprising of 24 members, I have not seen or even known the following members of Governing Body :-
S.No Name S.No Name
14 R/Adm G. Kurvilla 20 Maj S.Khanna
18 Brig Jagjit Singh Ahuja 21 Capt M.Mathur
19 Col R.M.Bedi 24 Col Sidharth Bose
When these above points were raised time and again for the proper functioning of the IESM, the way out was found by deputing Gp Capt Gandhi as Gen Secy without any election, whereas I have not resigned till date. Copy attached. There is only one post of Gen Secy. These appointments are adhoc however there is need in near future Gen Body meeting is to be called for fresh election.
------------
THE END

OROP and IESM

OROP और IESM
पेंशन उन सेवाओं का मुआवजा है जो हम अतीत से कर चुके हैं. अगर यह सेवाएँ बराबर थी तो मुआवजा भी बराबर होना चाहिए. अगर २ फौजी बराबर सर्विस के बाद और एक ही रंक से सेवा निवृत होते हैं, तो उनकी पेंशन भी समान होनी चाहिए. येही OROP का सिद्धांत है.
OROP २५ साल से ज्यादा पुरानी मांग है. छठे वेतन आयोग के बाद IESM के नेत्रत्व में OROP का अभियान जोर शोर से चला है. इसी अभियान के नतीजा है कि आज सभी भारत वासी OROP के मूल सिधान्तों से वाकिफ हैं. IESM यह संघर्ष को अनुसाशन और कानूनी दायरे में चलता आ रहा है और आगे भी चलता रहेगा.
संघर्ष का सबसे कामयाब तरीका मेडल जमा करने का है. सरकार के पास इसका कोई जवाबी हल नहीं है. इसी कि बदौलत, OROP को राष्ट्रपति ने भी २००९ में लोक सभा को दिए अपने वार्षिक भाषण में शामिल किया. इसी संघर्ष कि वजह से १०-१०-१९९७ से पहले के सेवा निवृत सेनानिओं को १०-१०-१९९७ के बाद वालों के बराबर पेंशन देने कि घोषणा सरकार द्वारा के गयी. १-१-२००६ से पूर्व सेवा निवृत JCO और जवानों के पेंशन में भी काफी बढ़ोतरी हुई है, जिसके बारे में सरकारी आदेश आने की आशा है.
पेंशन में बढ़ोतरी ज़रूर हुई है, लेकिन OROP अभी भी नहीं मिला है. संघर्ष जारी रखना पड़ेगा. जो पूर्व सैनिक इसमें शामिल अभी तक नहीं हुए हैं, वो तुरंत IESM के सदस्य बनें. ( सदस्य बनने की आजीवन फीस है- अफसर रु ५००/=, JCO- रु २००/=, और बाकी सब रु १००/=. सैनिक वीरांगनाओं निशुल्क सदस्य बन सकती हैं ). आपसे यह भी अनुरोध है कि अपने मेडल भी जिला इन्चार्गे के पास जमा करवाएं.
OROP के अलावा IESM सैनिक कल्याण के और कई कामों में लगा है, जैसे ECHS, पेंशन और कैंटीन सुविधाओं में अव्वल दर्जे का सुधर लाना. आइये, हम सब मिल कर सैनिक कल्याण कि गतिविधियों को मिल कर आगे ले चलें,
जय हिंद !!
लेफ्टिनेंट जनरल राज कादयान,
अध्यक्ष IESM

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

INFORMATION LEAFLET & UPDATE by Maj Gen Satbir Singh

INFORMATION LEAFLET & UPDATE

Dear Friends,

1. Information leaflet in Hindi is attached. You are requested to circulate the same to the maximum ESM. You are also requested to get it translated in local languages and circulate to the ESM in the area.

2. We once again appeal to all ESM Organizations and ESM to join the IESM in large numbers. As explained earlier deposit of medals is to be vigorously pursued to make the Govt take us seriously. We request atleast 2000 ESM to be added to the membership list from each district of the country and atleast 2000 medals per district be collected for deposit with the President. All convenors are requested to organize membership drive as well as medal collection on OP IMMEDIATE basis and give us the feed back twice a month. Once large number of medals have been collected, the date of deposit of medals will be planned. Every ESM to kindly cooperate.

3. It is heartening to note that number of IESM members have contacted MPs to raise questions on OROP in the Parliament during the current session. Besides the open letter to the MPs, we had forwarded them another open letter on “Starred Questions for the MPs”. A letter sent to Mr Navjot Sidhu who has responded is enclosed. It was heartening that Mr. Navjot Sidhu rang up the undersigned and informed that he had forwarded the Starred Questions to the Lok Sabha speaker and hopefully, he would get chance to raise these before 29 Nov 2009.

4. Our Joint Letter to Prime Minster has also been circulated to large number of ESM for getting the same printed in Media. Efforts have been made to deliver the letter personally to PM and RM. Let us hope some action is taken soon.

5. While IESM is making every effort to get Justice to the veterans, some of our misguided ESM are indulging in anti IESM activities. Gp Capt Gandhi Gen Secy (coord) will be informing you about the details of such activities.

6. Well, friends if we want our demands to be met, there is only one way ie Unite in Large numbers and with one voice intensify the Movement for positive outcome.

7. As we are getting in touch with each other, a large number of serious anomalies are coming to notice which are applicable to large group of ESM. May we request all ESM to send us the anomalies noticed by them besides which are already known to the majority. These will be compiled and taken up with the Govt.

With Kind Regards,

Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email : satbirsm@yahoo.com

......................................

Dated: 11 Nov 2009

STARRED QUESTIONS FOR MEMBERS PARLIAMENT

MILITARY PENSION (OROP)

1. The winter session of Parliament starts from 19 November 09. The Defence Veterans of India numbering approx twenty four lakhs seek your personal indulgence in support of their demand of One Rank One Pension (OROP) which means “Defence Personnel who have put in same years of service and have obtained the same ranks must get same pension irrespective of the date of retirement.”

2. On 25 Oct 2009, veterans returned 2000 medals their fifth pack of medals to the President of India: their supreme commander to express their extreme anguish, hurt feelings and desperation caused by frustration and distress. So far more than twenty thousand medals have been deposited with the President. Why have the veterans been driven to such a state of anguish? Starred questions for Hon’ble Members of Parliament are attached. A peep into these questions will reveal the causes of mistreatment and extreme anguish of Defence Veterans who are seeking “Justice”. May we request you to raise these questions in the coming winter session of Parliament starting November 19, 2009 and ask the Govt to sanction One Rank One Pension for the Defence Personnel at the earliest please.

3. A combined letter dated 14 October 2009 written to Honble Prime Minister by Major Ex Servicemen organization functioning in the country is also enclosed for your perusal please.

4. Before closing, it may be pertinent to quote excerpts from some bits of a speech President Obama gave at Veterans of Foreign Wars Convention on August 17, 2009.

“And our nation owes these Americans ...and all who have given their lives- a profound debt of
gratitude… And as always, the thoughts and prayers of every American are with those who
make the ultimate sacrifice in our defense….. We fulfill our responsibility to our veterans as
they return to civilian life… Whether you’ve left the service in 2009 or 1949, we will fulfill our
responsibility to deliver the benefits and care that you earned….These are commitments that
we make to the patriots who serve… from the day they enlist to the day that they are laid to
rest.”

Shri Navjot Singh Sidhu
Member of Parliament
A-7, M.S. Flats,
B.K.S. Marg, New Delhi -110001

STARRED QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS PARLIAMENTMILITARY PENSION (OROP)

1. More than 22000 medals have been returned to the President by the Military Veterans so far – the last lot being the return of 2000 medals on 25th Oct 2009. It is a known fact that a medal is very cherished and coveted part of a soldier’s life, both while in service and after retirement. That the veterans have been driven to such an extreme step shows the disillusionment and frustration at the apathy of the Govt towards them.

2. The soldiers have been agitating since quite some time to restore their dignity and pride which have been drastically eroded by the recommendations and implementation of 6th Pay Commission by the Govt which has shown a total disregard to the ethos, rank structure and, esprit de corps of the Defence Forces. This will contribute to a large extent in shaking the very foundation over which the Defence Forces of the country stand. History will not forgive, the perpetrators of this – the Pay Commission and the Govt. They have intentionally or unintentionally demoralized the ex - soldiers and by default the serving personnel as well.

3. I implore upon the Govt to take immediate remedial measures to restore the confidence of the Military by seriously going into their grievances before some tragic incident occurs. I want the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri to reply on the following issues as starred questions.

STARRED QUESTIONS FOR MEMBERS PARLIAMENTMILITARY PENSIONS (OROP) FOR DEFENCE PENSIONERS

1. Defence Forces of India function on hierarchical principle without which the military can not function. The 6th CPC has ruthlessly demolished their system. May I request the RM to kindly reply to my following questions.

Q 1. Why has the Govt ie PM, RM, FM mislead the nation both in Parliament and outside that OROP had been implemented. This is a blatant lie to confuse and mislead the Parliament and the Nation, when actually on the ground no action has been taken in this regard ?

Q 2 (a). An old pensioner (Pre 96) Sepoy with 17 years of service gets a pension of Rs 3500/-per month only where as a Sepoy retiring after 2006 with same years of service gets a Pension of Rs 7045/- per month. Like wise all Ex servicemen of all ranks who retired prior to 01 Jan 06 will draw much less pension as compared to their counter parts retiring after 01 Jan 2006 This is totally unjust, arbitrator, illegal and happens only in our Country. Will the worthy RM explain the rational of such differentials?

(b) A Major General pre 2006 retiree get far less pension than A Lt Col, (who is four ranks junior) who retired after 01-01-06. Likewise , other senior rank officers ie Brig, Col, Lt Col, Maj, Capt, Lt, PBORs who are pre 2006 retirees get less pension than their counterparts who retired after 01-01-06. This is a weird situation which is also a blatant violation of Article 14 and fundamental rights of the constitution. A senior rank officer must never get less pension than his junior rank officer irrespective of the date of retirement. The very functioning of the Army Rank structure is being adversely affected since the present serving personnel are the future retirees. Will the worthy RM explain the rational of this serious anomaly?

(c) There is far too large a gap --- of Rs 11600 --- between Major and Lt Col. Similarly, too large a gap has been created between the pensions of Major General and Lt Gen i.e Rs 9800/- The pensions of Lt Col, Col, Brig and Major General have been kept in a rather too narrow a range ie Rs 25700 – Rs 26700/-, a gap of only Rs 1000. The length of service and level of responsibility held have not been given due weigatage. Between Col and Maj Gen, the difference in pension is only Rs 650/-. The anomaly is too glaring. There should be sufficient gap, between the pensions of successive ranks and there should be no large variations within a particular rank. Why the pensions of Defence Pensioners structured so illogically. Will the RM explain please?

(d) While implementing the Supreme Court judgment in the case of Maj Gens, the Govt has accepted the concept of granting the same pension to pre 96 and post 96 retirees with same rank and same service the plea made by Maj Gens when 5th Pay Commission was implemented. In the same way, the Govt should have applied the same concept in the case of pre 01 Jan 2006 and Post 01 Jan 2006 retirees of all ranks. Why the same has not been done?

(e) Three Assured Carrier Progressions (ACP) concept has been accepted as 6th CPC award. But the same has not been applied to the past pensioners. The past pensioners should also be given the benefit of ACP by notionally applying the concept to them and their pensions fixed accordingly. Why the same has not been done?

(f) The Hon’ble PM on 15 Aug 09 in his speech at the Red Fort announced enhancement of pensions of Junior Commissioned Officers of Army and their equivalent in Navy and Air Force and Other Ranks of Army, Navy and Air Force. However, Govt orders of implementation of enhanced pensions have not yet been issued. What are the reasons for the delay?

Q 3. Why in the last 62 year the status of Defence Personnel viz a viz their civil counterparts has been constantly eroded. A few examples:-

· In 1947 highest Police Officer in a State was equivalent to a Lt Col. However after 6th CPC he has been placed even ahead of Lt Gen.

· A joint Secretary level officer was equal to a Major. However, now he is equated with major General.

· A Jawan who handles all the technical equipment and sacrifices the best period of his life in the most inhospitable terrain and conditions and is on duty 24 hrs 365 days a year and who has voluntarily surrendered his fundamental rights has been equated with a peon in the Civil Govt.

2. Not to compare but to bring it to the notice of this august house the respect which other countries give to their soldiers. I wish to highlight some excerpts from the bits of speech president Obama gave at veterans of Foreign War Convention on August 17, 2009

Quote
“And our nation owes these Americans ...and all who have given their lives- a profound debt of gratitude… And as always, the thoughts and prayers of every American are with those who make the ultimate sacrifice in our defense….. We fulfill our responsibility to our veterans as they return to civilian life… Whether you’ve left the service in 2009 or 1949, we will fulfill our responsibility to deliver
the benefits and care that you earned….These are commitments that we make to the patriots who serve… from the day they enlist to the day that they are laid to rest.”
Unquote

3. Lastly a nation which does not show gratitude and respect to its soldiers will do so at their own peril.

Mr. Navjot Singh Sidhu
Hon’ble Member of Parliament

INFORMATION LEAFLET & UPDATE by Maj Gen Satbir Singh

ESM sitrep 25 Nov evening

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com

Sent: Wed, 25 November, 2009 8:58:11 PM

Subject: ESM sitrep 25 Nov evening

Dear Colleagues,
I am happy to announce that Major Gurjeet Singh, ENGINEERS, who is settled abroad, has kindly consented to be the North America convener for the IESM.
I reemphasize the need for more volunteers to work for the ECHS Division of the IESM. We need ESM who can coordinate the activities at each polyclinic. Those willing to thus serve the ESM may kindly come forward and let us know.
There is also an urgent need for us to find ways to connect/communicate with the rural ESM. Majority of them are not computer users.
Viability of communicating through SMS is already being examined.
Any suggestions?

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM,
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A, Gurgaon- 122 001

Monday, November 23, 2009

ESM sitrep 22 Nov evening

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com

Sent: Sun, 22 November, 2009 7:40:42 PM

Subject: ESM sitrep 22 Nov evening

Dear Colleagues,

Gen Satbir, Colonel Krit Joshipura, Hony Capt Dhir Singh and self attended an ESM rally at village Dujana (Jhajjar, Haryana) today. Attended by nearly a thousand ESM and Service families the gathering expressed full support for the IESM and the effectiveness of the method of depositing medals with a view to pressurising the government. There was a spontaneous response to seek IESM membership. On a specific question by Hony Capt Dhir Singh whether the existing membership fee was too high, the gathering almost unanimously rejected the notion and wanted the existing fees to continue. In fact a large number of them made spot cash donations to us.
The promised pension enhancement is yet to be implemented. My interaction with the MOD reveals that the tables are almost ready and the government orders are being issued ‘shortly’. On being asked whether the enhancement can be expected by the New Year, I was informed it may be sooner. One keeps one’s fingers crossed.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM.
262, Sector-17A, Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262, +91981...

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Request from RMS..Brig Kamboj

Dear Friends,

Jai Hind.
Reference Email 772/2009, sent to you on 14 Nov 09, copy appended below.
In spite of the suggestion that in the current environment of computerisation, signing of letters and documents, in general, is not required, a few veterans insisted that they want a letter signed by Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, Chairman IESM, for handing it over to the MP of their respective constituency.

Therefore, a letter duly signed by the Chairman IESM is now attached. Please take a colour printout of the attachment.

The ESM receiving this email are once again requested the following –

· Please find out the name of the MP of your constituency.

· A few ESM of that constituency should get together and go and meet the concerned MP, handover a copy of the attached letter to the MP and also brief him about the OROP.

· In case your constituency MP has already left for Delhi to attend the next session of Parliament, then consider if one or two of you could visit Delhi and handover the letter to your MP at New Delhi.

· If your coming to New Delhi is not feasible then send the attached letter by “Speed Post” to the MP.
Along with the attached letter also send a covering letter signed by as many ESM as possible.

· Please do not send the letter by email. If sending the letters by email to MPs could have served the purpose, we would not need your help for it.
While every MP has an email ID, very few of them ever open the email box.
As per a study of the last Parliament, most of the laptops given to the MPs were never used by them.
They were either used by their secretaries or …. the grand children.

IESM thanks all the ESM who constantly keep appreciating the efforts being made by IESM for Justice for Defence Services, but a few leaders alone cannot do everything by themselves. We all have to stand shoulder to shoulder and support the IESM leaders and their plans.

Therefore, please come forward and implement what is suggested in this email above.

IT IS NOW OR NEVER.

LET US ALL DO OUR UTMOST TO FIGHT INJUSTICE TO DEFENCE SERVICES.

DO NOT JUST KEEP SITTING IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME.
YOU ARE CAPABLE OF DOING A LOT.

EVEN IF YOU FEEL THE JUSTICE WILL NOT COME IN OUR LIFETIME,
LET US DO IT FOR THE COMING GENERATIONS OF ESM.

After delivering the letter to the MP of your consitituency, please send us the following details at the earliest –
A. Name of the constituency and the MP.
B. Name of the ESM team who took action.
C. A brief what you did and the response of your constituency MP.

We look forward to your early kind response.
Your response kindly be sent to the following by email –
· Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, Chairman IESM – email ID – rajkadyan@yahoo.com .
· Maj Gen Satbir Singh, Vice Chairman IESM – email ID – satbirsm@yahoo.com .
· Gp Capt VK Gandhi, Secy Gen IESM – email ID - vk_gandhi@yahoo.com .

In Service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
------------

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

NOTICE FOR AGM IESM on 13 DEC 2009 at NOIDA

NOTICE FOR AGM OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT
on 13 Dec 09, Sunday at 1000h at AVCC sector 37 NOIDA

Dear All

Please refer to the previous notice for AGM dated 27 Oct 09 regarding Annual General Body meeting of IESM.

Due to some administrative problems it is not possible to hold AGM of IESM at Bangalore on 22 Nov 09. AGM of IESM is being rescheduled as given below.

AGM of IESM is now being planned to be held on 13 Dec 09 Sunday at 1000h to 1200h at AVCC, Sector 37 Noida 201301. Agenda for the meeting is given below.

1.Welcome by Gen Sec
2.Address by Chairman.
3.To receive, consider and adopt the audited Balance Sheet as on 31 March 2009, Income & Expenditure Account for the period ended on that date and the Auditor’s Report thereon.
4.To appoint auditors for the year 2009-2010.
5.Discussion on the points raised by the members if any.
6.Vote of thanks.

All members are requested to attend the meeting and send their confirmation of attendance to the Gen Sec at the earliest. All members are requested to make arrangement for travel and stay at Noida/Delhi. Members are requested to forward their points for inclusion in the agenda.

Duly audited account statement of year 08-09 is enclosed, Guide map to reach AVCC noida is attached for the convenience of all members.

Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222

Monday, November 16, 2009

welcome Brig RS Chhikara to IESM

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in; TRUNCATED
Sent: Sun, 15 November, 2009 9:35:09 PM
Subject:
Dear Colleagues,

On behalf of you all I welcome Brig RS Chhikara, as a new member into the IESM family. In addition to the membership fee he has also made a donation of Rs 4500/-. Our grateful thanks to him for his generous gesture. Thanks also to Brig Kamboj for motivating him to join in.

Our effort to run the IESM with minimum expense has not been without its downside. At times we have not been able to complete the desired tasks in a timely manner. One example is sending of the membership cards. The ESM fraternity has enormous talent in diverse welfare related fields and ample goodwill to pitch in with voluntary help. May I request the environment that those who can spare time may send their offer of help mentioning any special expertise they possess and the issues they feel comfortable with? This could be mailed to the General Secretary Gp Capt VK Gandhi on vk_gandhi@yahoo.com

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A, Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262, +91981...
----------
THE END

Thursday, November 12, 2009

An open letter to Hon’ble Members of Parliament from IESM

An open letter to Hon’ble Members of Parliament
From IESM

Dear Hon’ble Members,

The winter session of the Parliament is to begin shortly. The eyes of some 1200 million Indians will be on you to consider and debate their problems and to take momentous decisions to move this country forward. This vast population includes some two million Indian Ex Servicemen (ESM), who also will look at you all with great hope and expectation. Their population in the overall context may be small but the contribution made by them to keep India safe and united is far out of proportion to their numbers. They have been demanding ‘one rank one pension’ (OROP), which is equal pension for equal service. The latter in their context is length of service combined with the rank on retirement, which in turn defines the level of responsibility they held while in uniform. So it is ‘same rank, same service, same pension’.

OROP is not a new demand. It has been on simmer for over 25 years. It received fresh impetus after the Sixth Central Pay Commission, where absence of a defence representative led to recommendations that are detrimental to the very ethos on which the edifice of our defence forces stands. That the government has since accepted a separate pay commission for the defence forces ‘from next time on’ underscores the acceptance of their mistake.

The ESM have the resilience to survive in their paltry pension. What they are demanding is not more money per se. They are seeking justice and equity. They want all pensioners, past and present, to get the same pension. Ignoring their demand is perceived by them as if they have been merely used and discarded. They feel cheated and hurt. One can live with poverty but living with injustice is difficult for self respecting humans.

Why is the government not sanctioning OROP? Even though you would be better placed to answer this question, let me give the reason gleaned during my various interactions with those who frame and influence national policies. No one has questioned the legitimacy of the demand; “If we give it to you, other government employees may also demand it”, has been the only argument. Other government employees are not our adversaries; they are our own kith and kin. However, their conditions of service are vastly different from those of the defence forces. Apart from risks, dangers, difficulties, separations, dislocations inherent in a soldier’s life, his 24x7 work schedule for months on end is unique. The biggest difference is in the age at which they retire. An Army Sepoy – and over 85% of all personnel go home as Sepoys – is compulsorily sent on pension after 15 years of service. Being thrown out of job in mid Thirties on a meagre pension when one’s financial commitments are at a peak is a great trauma. An example would put the issue of relativity in correct perspective. Of two young men of the same age and education background, one joins the Army and the other the police (taken only for illustrative purposes). If they survive till the age of 75 years, the total difference in their earnings from salary and pension is approximately 47 Lacs in favour of the Constable. The relativity with other civilian employees would not be materially different. That is why the non-defence personnel have not pressed for OROP. If they were indeed aggrieved, they would not wait for the ESM to take lead.

Seeking parity between old and current pensions is not something unethical. If it were so, one is sure you all as Hon’ble members would not have accepted its applicability to yourselves. Nor is such a demand illegal since our Hon’ble members of the judiciary are also enjoying benefits of this provision. The soldiers, in the normal course, should get preferential treatment. Here, they are not even being treated at par with others.

Selective comparisons are never fully valid. However, since soldiers all over the world face similar fate, it may be relevant to quote excerpts from a speech President Barack Obama gave at the Veterans of Foreign Wars
Convention on August 17, 2009:

“And our nation owes these Americans -- and all who have given their lives – a profound debt of gratitude… And as always, the thoughts and prayers of every American are with those who make the ultimate sacrifice in our defence… We will fulfil our responsibility to our veterans as they return to
civilian life… Whether you've left the service in 2009 or 1949, we will fulfil our responsibility to deliver the benefits and care that you earned… These are commitments that we make to the patriots who serve – from the day they enlist to the day that they are laid to rest…”

A soldier is intrinsically shy and is conditioned to project his problems through the established channels. However, when his demand for justice is repeatedly stonewalled, his options get limited. It is not only unusual but also unfortunate that the Indian veterans have been forced to state their demand publicly. They are resolved to continue their protest in a lawful manner till they get justice.

I have had occasion to interact in person with a number of you belonging to different political parties. Interestingly, each one has expressed sympathy and support for OROP. However, after the issue is processed through the government machinery, the colour seems to change and OROP continues to remain a pending issue. This dichotomy bothers us, the ESM.

Lt Gen Raj Kadyan (Retd)
------------
THE END

ESM sitrep 08 Nov 2009

Dear Gen Kadyan,

To expect all/most ESM orgs in the country to come under one banner is the
`Height of Naivety`. Moreso, since many of them are affiliated to various political parties & their ESM orgs have their own `axe to grind`. We cannot & should not grudge them their `agenda` which they might be aspiring for, in the garb of ESM welfare. This is not to belittle some of the good/selfless work done by some orgs/indls for ESM.

Turbulence was expected ever since the IESM was formed because that woke up the `sleeping giant` IESL(in terms of numbers only), probably after a nugde from the `netas/babus` prior to the Lok Sabha elections. The IESL`s negative role towards OROP was expected being a Govt controlled org, though there have been some sincere efforts by some IESL members espousing the cause of ESM. This is evident from the corresp between the IESL President & Lt Gen SK Bahri. What is
surprising is the perceived non-involvement of most IESL `Top Brass`(ex Chiefs/
Army Cdrs/Lt Gens/Equivalents in IN/AF). How come their voices/views(if they have any) are not publicised/posted on the net or have they left it to the IESL President to conduct its business the way he likes. Why are they shirking to head the IESL as you have done so honourably to head the IESM.
Though the issue of OROP has been going on for the last 25 years, it is common
knowledge that it was the IESM which brought it to the centre stage by its peaceful agenda at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi and depositing of hard earned medals with the President. This obviously had the desired effect on the Nation, otherwise why did the IESL & some stooge orgs issue a `fatwa` against it so late(again it seems at the instance of the `netas/babus`.
Disability Pension - Even on an important issue of equitable disability pension the Govt is not bothered/procrastinating and has left the disabled soldiers to fight their `battles` in Courts(all at the cost of ESMs pension). Even after the Courts have ruled in favour of the disabled soldiers, frivolous SLPs/counter petitions are filed by the Govt just to delay the issue. Are the PM/RM/FM blind to these glaring anomalies or are they content with the delaying tactics of the `babus` to antagonise the ESM. What an ungrateful Congress Govt that sits on the sacrifices/lives/blood/sweat/toil of the soldiers. A lot was expected from the PM & RM - alas they have failed the Armed Forces. Even a war-disabled ex-VCOAS wrote to the RM but no response. Compare this with what the IIT Alumini achieved in a short time. The PM/RM/FM should be ashamed of themselves. Look how other nations treat their veterans/soldiers. The attitude of the Govt should be exposed nationally/internationally on the internet. Don`t expect much from the media, as they too have their compulsions. Expose the `babus` as the biggest culprits. Take the help of like-minded civil indls/orgs.
26/11 & Vijay Diwas - The disaster of 26/11 hit a chord with the people of Mumbai. They were all for the Armed Forces & the NSG(read Army). The first anniversary should be utilised effectively to convey our Agenda/Grievances & expose the misgivings of the `netas/babus` with specific ref to the Cabinet Secy`s
Anomalies report & the lies therein. Vijay Diwas should again be utilised to promote our causes The return of medals should be done with greater vigour & on a grander scale with the entire Indian/foreign media incl BBC/CNN/Chinese/Pak/Japanese/German/French/etc. Let them see how the " finest soldiers in the world" are treated by the Govt of India. In fact foreign countries give more honour to Indian soldiers. France honoured the Indian Armed Forces by inviting them to lead their ID parade. The planning for 26/11 & Vijay Diwas should
start imdt as there is very little time. Set targets for the State/Distt coordinators to collect ESM/medals.
Role of ex-Chiefs/Army Cdrs/Lt Gens/Equivalents - They should seek an audience collectively with the PM & RM and give a memorandum on the lines of
Lt Gen Harwant Singh`s letter in full media glare. Indl letters by them to PM/RM have had no effect. These senior Veterans have nothing to lose. In fact, they owe it to their subordinates who were mainly responsible for what they achieved. If reqd even MPs/MLAs should be coopted. The Armed Forces cannot be taken for a ride by `babus`. Look what the ex-CNS achieved, that too while in the Chair. He was true to the cause of soldiers. The other serving seniors need to take a cue from him.
It is now or never - otherwise the Courts will remain the last option. They are generally positive to ESM complaints regarding pay & allowances. I have already got a reprieve from the Punjab & Haryana High Court in my favour regarding bunching of my disability pension.

JUSTICE FOR DEFENCE FORCES AT ALL COSTS - WE WILL WIN AS ALWAYS !!!

JAI HIND.

Best regards,
Brig SS Jaswal, Veteran,
IESM, Panchkula.

- On Sun, 8/11/09, Kamboj Chander wrote:

From: Kamboj Chander kamboj@itintellectuals.com
Subject: ESM SITREP 08 NOV 09 - "REPORT MY SIGNAL" - EMAIL 759/2009 - 08 NOV 09 (H to Z)
To:
Date: Sunday, 8 November, 2009, 11:37 PM

Brigadier C. S. Kamboj, VSM., VETERAN,
Email - kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in

"REPORT MY SIGNAL - BLOG" - http://reportmysignal.blogspot.com/
IESM UPDATES AND REGISTRATION - http://www.iesm.org/

In Service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
------------

From: raj kadyan rajkadyan@yahoo.com
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in; TRUNCATED
Sent: Sun, 8 November, 2009 8:21:44 PM
Subject: ESM sitrep 08 Nov evening
Dear Colleagues,

Yet another attempt at cobbling a joint approach, – even though it was for a limited purpose of writing a combined letter - has run into open turbulence. This is most unfortunate. The target audience that we intended to influence through this effort could not be unaware of the fission.

I will reiterate what I had said a few weeks ago through this very medium. Based on the experience of many failed attempts at fostering unity, we need to get reconciled to the fact that in the foreseeable future unity among ESM is a mere mirage. There must be several factors, both institutional and individual, which are stymieing the repeated attempts made in this direction. Therefore, while there is no harm keeping our efforts and hopes alive, we need to accept the reality and not lament over the fact.

One positive in the ESM environment is that we all have a common goal – of ESM welfare in general and OROP in particular. Only the approaches are different. We should use this fact to make our efforts seem like a multi-pronged thrust to attain our common objective.

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM,
Chairman IESM

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Mail by Brig Kamboj...RMS

Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
For success of the current All India Movement by ESM to get -
Justice for Defence Services,
it is important that ESM organisations and we All ESM stand shoulder to shoulder.

There are already large numbers of existing ESM organisations and each one of them is doing its utmost to get justice for Defence Services of India.
If any one of you is not a member of an ESM organisation, do join one of the existing ESM organisations and give your whole-hearted support to the current movement for Justice for Defence Services.

For early and assured success of our mission – Justice for Defence Services, what is required is that all the existing ESM organisations must work in a synergetic manner. All ESM organisations may continue to follow their own philosophy and methods, but nothing should be said or done which implies to adversely criticising other ESM organisations or any individual ESM.

Any representation to be sent in writing to the Government of India should preferably go as a joint memorandum by All ESM Organisations.
We must avoid creating new ESM organisations, unless it is being created for a specific problem to be resolved; like the Retired Defence Officers Association, which has been created with the specific purpose to resolve the V CPC anomaly pertaining to rank pay of officers of Defence Services.

We must appreciate that if someone is still trying to create a new ESM organisation to represent the common existing problems of all ESM, it is being done to achieve ulterior motives of the originators of such organisations – especially if the creators of such organisation are going on a vilification campaign of any of the existing ESM organisation. You should come down with a heavy hand on such misguided persons and ensure they do not succeed in their ulterior motives at the cost of all the ESM of India.

An email received from IESM Steering Committee is reproduced below for your consideration.
If you agree with the contents of this email - do give wide publicity to its contents.

UNITED WE ARE SURE TO WIN

DIVIDED WE WILL FALL.

CHOICE IS YOURS.

In Service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
------------

From: Vinod Gandhi vk_gandhi@yahoo.com

To: DELETED

Sent: Sat, 7 November, 2009 1:42:45 PM
Subject: IESM; WELFARE OF EX-SERVICEMEN

Dear Veterans
Of late, few veterans have been indulging in vilification campaign against IESM. They are indulging in this vilification campaign to serve their narrow interest. They are inflicting immense damage to the clean image of ex-servicemen. It is evident from their mails that they are either not aware of the work done by IESM and its decision making procedures or intentionally indulging into vilification campaign with a specific design in their mind. In order to remove the doubts being created by these misguided Veterans about IESM, the following is submitted for information of all ESM: -
1. IESM is fully committed to the welfare of ex-servicemen and will continue to do so against all odds.

2. IESM has been successful in bringing the demand of OROP to the centre stage of the Government and will continue to pursue the case till Government approves the OROP for all ex-servicemen.

3. IESM does not support any particular political outfit and will support only those who will help IESM in getting OROP for all ex-servicemen.

4. AGM for the IESM is being planned in mid December 09.

5. IESM accounts have been audited by the CA and the balance sheet is ready. The balance sheet will be put up to AGM for approval. The approved balance sheet will be released for all to study and will be uploaded to IESM website.

6. Income tax return for the year 2008-09 has been filed.

7. IESM has a system of internal audit at regular intervals and all expenditure is vetted by steering committee.

8. IESM has received income tax exemption for the donations under section 80G of income tax. As per this clause, 50% of all donations are exempt from income tax; required receipts for claiming the IT relief is being issued to donors.

9. Steering Committee of the IESM takes decisions unanimously and in case of any differences, the issue is resolved peacefully and democratically by vote.

10. Core Group of IESM is a larger body. All State conveners and many JCOs, NCOs or ORs are member of core group. Core group meeting is held every quarter where JCOs and other ranks take active part in deliberations.

11. As per MOA of the IESM, the present team of office bearers has been elected for a period of two years. On completion of two years in Dec 2010, a new team of office bearers will be elected.

12. IESM is committed to peaceful demonstrations and will never support any disruptive kind of protest.

13. IESM has started three divisions to look after the interest of ex-servicemen. These are –

Pension division to help ex-servicemen to sort out their pension related problems.

ECHS division to improve the working of ECHS with a long term perspective that benefit of ECHS facility is available to all ex-servicemen even in remotest corners of India.

CSD division to help spread its reach and benefits even to ex-servicemen residing in villages by opening CSD counters or providing mobile counter facility.

IESM is also taking up other important demands like –

Job guarantee till 60 yrs of age for all ex-servicemen.

Assured alternate career on retirement such as parallel absorption in other organisations on release from service.

Ex-servicemen commission for welfare of all ex-servicemen to be manned by only ex-servicemen.

Inclusion of ex-servicemen in the committees set up to
consider issues pertaining to ex-servicemen.

Anomalies related to disability pension.
15. Other important issues affecting the welfare of ESM are also under planning and will also be looked into when necessary.
IESM requests ex-servicemen not to get misled by the vilification campaign by a few misguided and self-centered veterans.
For the success of the Mission – Justice for Defence Services, ALL ESM of THREE Services and All ESM organisations must stand shoulder to shoulder.
All ESM Organisations are doing their utmost for the benefit of ESM but, care has to be taken that the actions by ESM organisations are synergetic and complement each other.
Public criticism of any ESM organisation or any individual ESM must be avoided.
There are always ways and means of resolving differences in a peaceful and democratic manner.
IESM wishes all ex-servicemen organisations a grand success in pursuing their charter for the welfare of ex-servicemen.
Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25, NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440, Mobile 09810541222

Pls see IESM latest NEWS on http://www.iesm. org

IF YOU SEE SOMEONE WITHOUT A SMILE GIVE HIM ONE OF YOURS.
-----------
THE END