As a fresh graduate or young professional, you may be considering different career paths to build a stable and satisfying future. If you have been contemplating joining the Indian Army, it's important to understand the role and responsibilities of an Indian Army Colonel as well as the salary potential that comes with it.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the salary structure offered to Indian Army Colonels, along with their duties, benefits, and growth opportunities.
Salary Structure for Indian Army Colonels
If you want to pursue a career in the Indian Army, you'll be glad to know that the salary structure is quite attractive. As an Indian Army Colonel, you can expect to earn a good salary along with several perks and benefits.
- The basic pay of an Indian Army Colonel ranges from ₹1,30,000 to ₹2,15,900 per month.
- In addition to the basic pay, there are several other allowances that form part of the salary package. These include Dearness Allowance (DA), Military Service Pay (MSP), Non-Practising Allowance (NPA), and Field Area Allowance (FAA).
- With the implementation of the Seventh Central Pay Commission recommendations in 2016, the salaries of army personnel have increased substantially. The pay scale of a Colonel in the Indian Army ranges from Level 13A (₹1,31,100–₹2,16,600) to Level 14 (₹1,44,200–₹2,18,200).
It is worth noting that promotions play a significant role in determining your salary as an army officer. The salary of an Indian Army Colonel increases at regular intervals based on years of service and performance.
Perks and Benefits of Indian Army Colonels
As an Indian Army Colonel, you not only enjoy a stable job but also the various perks and benefits that come with it.
- Apart from a handsome salary package, army officers receive numerous allowances and benefits, such as a housing allowance and medical facilities for themselves and family members, including parents and children, until they turn 25 years old.
- Army officers also get educational assistance to support their children's education expenses until graduation or post-graduation level in any field after class XII every year, up to a maximum limit.
- Indian Army Colonels are entitled to a host of other benefits like life insurance coverage of up to ₹75 lakhs, provident fund schemes, and leave travel concessions.
- The retirement plan for Indian Army Colonels is quite lucrative too. They are entitled to receive a pension after they retire, which is based on their last drawn salary.
- Other than these benefits, there are adventure activities like mountaineering expeditions where fees are waived entirely or partly depending on the rank held by individual soldiers or officers interested in enrolling themselves for such expeditions. These activities are meant for physical and mental development to make you a well-rounded individual, ready to tackle challenges.
Annual Salary Package of Indian Army Colonels
The annual salary package of an Indian Army Colonel is quite substantial when compared to other professions in India.
The monthly salary of a Colonel is ₹1,30,000, which amounts to an annual salary of ₹15,60,000. Apart from this base pay, you are also entitled to various allowances depending on the type of duty that you are performing.
Below is a table providing a breakdown of the monthly and annual salary packages of an Indian Army Colonel:
Overall, the total emoluments for an Indian Army Colonel can range from ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹2.7 lakhs per month, depending on the location of posting.
Role of Indian Army Colonels
To become a Colonel in the Indian Army, one needs to serve for roughly 15–20 years in the army and attain exceptional performance records.
- The job role of an Indian Army Colonel is crucial, as they are responsible for commanding battalions or brigades consisting of over one thousand soldiers.
- They are responsible for supervising missions and operations on the field, which requires significant experience in combat and leadership skills.
Growth Opportunities in the Indian Army
There are many growth opportunities available for Army personnel. Promotions to higher ranks such as Brigadier or Major General are possible with experience and excellent performance records. Transfers to different parts of the country and foreign assignments help personnel gain international exposure and enhance their skills.
The table below compares salaries at different levels/positions within the army:
Aspire to be an Indian Army Colonel
In conclusion, becoming an Indian Army Colonel takes time, effort, and dedication. Through this article, you have gained valuable insights into the role of Indian Army Colonels, salary structures and benefits, and growth opportunities.
WIZR is a reliable platform that can assist you in building your career in the Indian Army sector by providing valuable insights on degree programmes and upskilling courses. Consult with our experts for guidance on career growth opportunities and educational requirements for joining the Indian Army.
FAQs
1. Are the salaries of Indian Army Colonels at par with those of armies in other countries?
The salary of an Indian Army Colonel may vary from country to country. However, the salary structure offered by the Indian Army is competitive and lucrative in comparison to other sectors within India.
2. Do Army officers get pensions even after VRS?
Yes, after completing a minimum tenure of 20 years in the army service, an officer is eligible for a pension that is equivalent to fifty per cent of their last drawn salary.
3. What are the challenges of being an Indian Army Colonel?
Challenges faced by army personnel include long working hours, frequent transfers or postings away from family and friends, extensive physical training, deployment in difficult terrain or harsh weather conditions, and exposure to war zones.
4. How many years of service does it take to become an Indian Army Colonel?
It takes roughly 15–20 years of service in the army to attain the rank of colonel.
5. Does WIZR offer any guidance to Indian Army aspirants?
Yes, WIZR provides career-focused guidance and skill assessments for young professionals seeking career growth opportunities in the Indian Army sector.
