Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank Officers’ Federation Demands Welfare Measures and Infrastructural Improvements

The Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank Officers’ Federation (KVGBOF), affiliated with AIRRBOF and AIBOC, has submitted a detailed 35-point charter of demands to the bank’s Chairman. The demands focus on staff welfare, operational improvements, and infrastructure enhancements. The union has urged swift action, emphasizing that delays in addressing these concerns could impact employee morale and operational efficiency.

Urgent Appeal for Employee Welfare and Policy Reforms

In its letter dated February 11, 2025, the KVGBOF expressed appreciation for the bank's leadership while stressing unresolved issues affecting employees. The letter stated, “At the outset, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for your dynamic leadership and unwavering commitment to employee welfare. However, several critical issues remain unaddressed. These measures will ensure improved employee satisfaction, enhance operational efficiency, and uphold the bank’s reputation as an employee-friendly organization.”

Image: Letter of KVGBOF to the bank’s Chairman demanding staff welfare measures

Key Demands Raised by KVGBOF

The charter includes 35 pressing demands that remain unimplemented:

1. Addressing Staff Shortages – Recruit additional staff to reduce workload.
2. Timely Promotions – Ensure promotions are completed within the first quarter of the financial year.
3. 14% NPS Contribution – Implement the 14% NPS as per guidelines.
4. Transfer Policy Compliance – Adhere to DFS recommendations on transfers.
5. Full 12th BPS Implementation – Implement all pending benefits.
6. Casual Leave Revision – Align casual leave provisions with national banking norms.
7. Pending Arrears – Immediate disbursal of PLI, TA/DA, and transfer grants arrears.
8. Officiating Pay – Clear pending payments for employees handling additional roles.
9. Conveyance Allowance – Revise rates to match sponsor bank standards.
10. Lodging Expenses – Increase allowances to reflect inflation.
11. Business Development Expenses – Provide adequate funds for branch promotions.
12. Newspaper Allowance – Revise allowances in line with industry standards.
13. Housing Loan – Enhance staff loan limits for housing needs.
14. Vehicle Loan – Update loan limits for both fuel and electric vehicles.
15. Silver Jubilee Award – Revise staff service recognition awards.
16. Cleaning Expenses – Provide allowances for maintaining hygiene in branches.
17. Canteen Subsidy – Introduce food subsidies for employees.
18. Office Essentials – Provide soft bags/briefcases for work-related use.
19. Trolley Allowance – Introduce allowances for handling cash/materials.
20. Furniture Allowance – Provide staff with ergonomic office furniture.
21. Child Care Allowance – Introduce support for working parents.
22. Mobile Purchase & Call Charges – Enhance allowances for official communication.
23. Turnaround Time for Allowances – Ensure timely processing of staff benefits.
24. Opposition to Holiday Work – Stop the practice of calling employees to work on holidays.
25. Absorption of TDS on Loans – Bank should bear tax liability on concessional staff loans.
26. Branch Revenue Expenditure – Revise budgets annually.
27. Target Allocation Mechanism – Adjust targets based on realistic parameters.
28. Annual Performance Review – Introduce a fairer evaluation system.
29. Contingency Fund for Branches – Improve financial support at the branch level.
30. Security Measures – Deploy armed guards at branches and ATMs.
31. Branch Renovations – Modernize infrastructure for better working conditions.
32. Furniture Upgrade – Ensure all branches have quality seating and desks.
33. Air Conditioning – Install AC units for staff comfort.
34. Hygiene Facilities for Women – Construct dedicated spaces for female employees.
35. Sanitation Infrastructure – Improve branch sanitation for a healthier workspace.

The union has urged immediate discussions on these demands to avoid potential disruptions. KVGBOF has emphasized that swift action is essential to maintaining employee morale and ensuring continued growth of Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank. Recently, the union staged a reverse walking protest against the regressive issues.