By IAS Officer Salary in 2025: Pay Scale, Allowances & Career Growth
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) stands as one of the most prestigious and sought-after careers in India. Beyond the honor and responsibility, the financial compensation is a significant aspect that attracts many aspirants. As per the 7th Pay Commission, the salary structure for IAS officers is designed to be competitive and rewarding.
IAS Officer Salary Structure (2025)
1. Entry-Level (Junior Scale) – Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM)
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Basic Pay: ₹56,100
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Dearness Allowance (DA): 46% of basic pay (₹25,806)
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House Rent Allowance (HRA): 16% of basic pay (₹8,976)
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Travel Allowance (TA): ₹4,000
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Gross Salary: ₹94,882
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In-Hand Salary: ₹84,000 – ₹90,000 after deductions
2. Senior Scale – Additional District Magistrate (ADM)
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Basic Pay: ₹67,700
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Gross Salary: ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,30,000
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In-Hand Salary: ₹90,000 – ₹1,10,000
3. Junior Administrative Grade – Deputy Secretary
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Basic Pay: ₹78,800
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Gross Salary: ₹1,30,000 – ₹1,50,000
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In-Hand Salary: ₹1,10,000 – ₹1,30,000
4. Selection Grade – Director
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Basic Pay: ₹1,18,500
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Gross Salary: ₹1,50,000 – ₹1,80,000
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In-Hand Salary: ₹1,30,000 – ₹1,50,000
5. Super Time Scale – Joint Secretary
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Basic Pay: ₹1,44,200
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Gross Salary: ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,20,000
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In-Hand Salary: ₹1,60,000 – ₹1,90,000
6. Above Super Time Scale – Additional Secretary
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Basic Pay: ₹1,82,200
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Gross Salary: ₹2,20,000 – ₹2,50,000
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In-Hand Salary: ₹2,00,000 – ₹2,30,000
7. Apex Scale – Secretary
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Basic Pay: ₹2,25,000
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Gross Salary: ₹2,50,000+
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In-Hand Salary: ₹2,30,000+
8. Cabinet Secretary (Highest Rank)
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Basic Pay: ₹2,50,000
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Gross Salary: ₹2,80,000+
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In-Hand Salary: ₹2,60,000 – ₹2,80,000+
Allowances and Perks
In addition to the basic pay, IAS officers are entitled to various allowances and perks:
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Dearness Allowance (DA): 46% of basic pay as of 2025
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House Rent Allowance (HRA): 8% – 24% of basic pay, depending on the city of posting
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Travel Allowance (TA): ₹3,000 – ₹10,000
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Medical Allowance: Fully covered
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Other Benefits: Provident Fund (PF), Gratuity, Pension, and more
Career Progression and Promotions
The career progression in the IAS is structured as follows:
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Junior Scale (SDM) – Entry-level position
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Senior Scale (ADM) – After 5–8 years of service
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Junior Administrative Grade (Deputy Secretary) – After 9–12 years
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Selection Grade (Director) – After 13–16 years
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Super Time Scale (Joint Secretary) – After 16–24 years
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Above Super Time Scale (Additional Secretary) – After 24–30 years
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Apex Scale (Secretary) – After 30–35 years
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Cabinet Secretary – After 35+ years
Comparison with Other Civil Services
| Service | Starting Salary | Highest Salary | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| IAS | ₹56,100 | ₹2,50,000+ | Policy-making power, administrative authority |
| IPS | ₹56,100 | ₹2,50,000+ | Law enforcement authority, security perks |
| IFS | ₹56,100 | ₹2,50,000+ | Foreign postings, diplomatic benefits |