Launch Campaign and Space Technology Allowance : Report of the Committee Allowances – 7th Pay Commission

Launch Campaign and Space Technology Allowance : Report of the Committee Allowances – 7th Pay Commission

Launch Campaign Allowance (Para 8.17.68) and Space Technology Allowance

Existing Provisions: Considering that all missions/ projects of ISRO are implemented in campaign mode and all categories of employees have to work with extra vigour, it was decided to give a lump sum Launch Campaign Allowance to all administrative staff working in DOS/ISRO to appreciate and recognize their contribution to ISRO. Space Technology Allowance is granted to supporting scientific and technical staff in DOS/ISRO in recognition of the need for their retention and keeping in view the fact that they play a crucial role in the success of every mission. Both the allowances are paid at the identical rate of ₹7,500 per annum.

Reasons mentioned by 7th CPC for recommending abolition: The allowances are in the nature of an appreciation allowance. Since PRIS is already being implemented in the ISRO, there is no justification for the continuation of these allowances.

Demand:

Chairman, Space Commission: Department of Space works in mission mode approach, and it requires large number of employees from different disciplines at different centres. Therefore, it was requested that this allowance should continue and quantum of the allowance may be enhanced suitably.

Analysis and Recommendations of the Committee:
Department of Space has brought to the notice of the Committee that these allowances are paid to the non gazetted administrative and technical support staff at half the rate of  Professional Allowance for scientists which is not paid to them. Department of Space has clarified that these allowances are not linked to PRIS which is paid to all categories including those in receipt of Professional Update Allowance which has not been discontinued. The Committee recommends that these allowances be retained at the existing rates. This will benefit 7,177 (3575+3502) employees. Additional annual financial implication is estimated to be ₹ 4.68 crore.

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