The Retired Steel Executives Association (RSEA) has submitted a memorandum to the Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (Visakhapatnam Steel Plant), urging the management to continue existing medical welfare schemes for retired employees without imposing additional financial burdens or restrictive conditions.According to the association, its leaders and members also held a peaceful protest, including a candle rally, on Sunday.The representation, led by president Maturi Sreenivasa Rao, dated March 25, 2026, sought continuation of the Post Retirement Medical Scheme (PRMS) and the Group Medical Insurance Scheme (GMIS) for the 2025-26 financial year, according to a copy of the memorandum released here on Sunday.The appeal follows a recent circular issued by the HR Department regarding enrolment and renewal procedures, which reportedly introduced new contribution-related provisions.The RSEA stated that many retirees and widows of deceased employees depend entirely on these schemes, as they live on fixed pension incomes. The memorandum pointed out that rising living costs and increasing medical expenses have already placed significant financial strain on the retired workforce, making any additional contributions or restrictive changes a source of concern.According to the document, the RSEA had earlier raised these issues with the Union Minister of Steel and Heavy Industries during his visit to the plant on March 23. The association noted that the Minister appeared sympathetic to the demand for continuing medical welfare measures without delay. While acknowledging that RINL is facing financial constraints, the RSEA emphasised that retirees had played a key role in building the organisation and steering it through earlier challenges.The association urged the management to ensure uninterrupted continuation of PRMS and GMIS in their present form. It said healthcare remains a basic necessity for the well-being of former employees, who continue to be a valued part of the organisation. Published - March 29, 2026 11:17 pm IST