Bsnl 3rd PRC Latest News 2021: Salary Update, Government Plans

BSNL employees have been dealing with a long-standing problem — the implementation of the 3rd Pay Revision Commission (PRC). While other Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) implemented PRC recommendations in 2017, BSNL staff are still waiting. This delay has impacted employee morale, financial stability, and overall trust in government policy. This blog shares the latest bsnl 3rd prc latest news 2021, what the government is doing, and what employees can expect ahead. bsnl 3rd prc latest news 2021

What is the 3rd PRC and Why Hasn’t BSNL Implemented It?
The 3rd PRC was introduced to bring PSU salaries in line with private sector standards. Most profitable PSUs like ONGC, BHEL, and NTPC implemented it promptly. However, BSNL’s losses made it ineligible under the government’s criteria. As a result, BSNL’s workforce continues to operate under outdated pay structures while inflation keeps rising.
Reference: 3rd Pay Revision Commission –

Employees’ Demands and Union Pressure
BSNL unions have remained active since 2017. They have submitted memorandums, held protests, and raised their voice across media platforms. The unions argue that BSNL’s staff are essential to India’s telecom backbone and should not be punished for the company’s losses. Their request is simple — PRC should apply regardless of profit or loss, especially considering the dedication of the workforce.

2021 Government Response: What Was Said?
In response to questions raised in Parliament, the Telecom Minister acknowledged that the 3rd PRC was under review for BSNL. However, he also clarified that actual implementation would depend on financial recovery. This partial response gave employees some hope, but no timelines or decisions were announced.
Related article: Business Standard

BSNL Revival Plan and Its Impact on PRC
In 2019 and 2020, the government announced a massive BSNL revival package. This included spectrum allocation for 4G, financial restructuring, and a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS). The goal was to make BSNL a profit-making PSU again. If this revival is successful, PRC implementation might become possible in the near future.

Current Employee Challenges
BSNL staff are facing serious issues due to stagnant salaries. More than 1.5 lakh employees continue to work on outdated pay scales, struggling with inflation and rising family expenses. Some are opting for early retirement, while others are seeking jobs in private firms. This has led to a fall in morale and efficiency inside the company.

Political and Public Support
The issue of PRC has been raised by multiple MPs in both houses of Parliament. Many citizens also support BSNL, considering it a national asset. Poor staff morale is beginning to affect customer service, and this has created public pressure for faster action. If BSNL services suffer, it affects millions of people directly.

Is PRC Still a Possibility?
Yes — but only if the financial turnaround is successful. As of 2021, the government has not closed the door on PRC. However, without profits, it is unlikely to be implemented. The government wants to see performance before agreeing to salary hikes. Employees must continue their efforts, and the government must ensure fairness.

Conclusion: Still Waiting for Fair Treatment
In 2021, BSNL employees had high hopes. The revival plan was in motion, and the government had made statements. Yet, the wait continues. The 3rd PRC remains a dream, not a reality. Until BSNL becomes financially stable, the government is unlikely to proceed. However, employees deserve recognition for their continued service and patience.

FAQs

Q1: What is the 3rd PRC for BSNL employees?
The 3rd PRC is a pay revision system proposed for PSU employees to align their salaries with market conditions. For BSNL, it means an overdue hike.

Q2: Why has BSNL not implemented it yet?
Because BSNL is currently a loss-making PSU. As per government policy, only profitable PSUs are eligible to adopt the 3rd PRC.

Q3: Is the government planning to implement PRC for BSNL?
The government has said it is under consideration and may depend on BSNL’s financial turnaround.

Q4: When will BSNL employees get the 3rd PRC?
There is no fixed date. It will likely happen only after BSNL becomes financially stable and starts making profits.