UPSC IAS Salary After 7th Pay Commission 2026 – Complete Detailed Guide
Overview
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is one of the most prestigious civil services in India. Candidates are recruited through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination and are appointed to administrative positions across central and state governments.
One of the most searched topics among aspirants is the IAS salary after the 7th Pay Commission. While prestige and authority are major attractions, salary structure, allowances, and career growth also play an important role.
This article explains the IAS salary structure, pay levels, in-hand salary, allowances, and long-term growth after the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission.
Important Dates
The IAS salary structure is governed by the 7th Central Pay Commission recommendations, which are already implemented for central services.
For UPSC Civil Services 2026:
Notification Release: February 2026
Prelims Exam: May–June 2026
Mains Exam: September–October 2026
Final Result: Early 2027
Selected candidates join training at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie.
Salary is applicable from the time of appointment after completion of training as per government rules.
Eligibility
To become an IAS officer, candidates must clear the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
The minimum age required is 21 years.
The maximum age for General category candidates is 32 years. OBC candidates receive 3 years relaxation, and SC/ST candidates receive 5 years relaxation.
A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory.
Only candidates who clear Prelims, Mains, and Interview and secure a high rank are allotted the IAS service.
Application Process
Candidates must apply online through the official UPSC website.
The application includes registration for the Civil Services Examination, followed by Prelims and Mains stages.
After clearing all stages and securing a qualifying rank, candidates are allotted services based on preference and rank.
Upon selection, candidates undergo foundation training before official posting as IAS officers.
Selection Process
The selection process for IAS includes three stages.
The Preliminary Examination is an objective screening test.
The Mains Examination consists of descriptive papers that test analytical ability, knowledge, and writing skills.
Candidates who clear Mains appear for the Personality Test or Interview.
The final merit list is prepared based on marks obtained in Mains and Interview.
Based on rank and preference, candidates are allotted services such as IAS, IPS, IFS, or other Group A services.
Only top-ranking candidates are generally allotted the IAS service.
Salary
After the 7th Pay Commission, the salary of an IAS officer is structured under the pay matrix system.
The starting basic pay of an IAS officer at the Junior Time Scale (Pay Level 10) is ₹56,100 per month.
In addition to basic pay, IAS officers receive several allowances including Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Travel Allowance.
The approximate in-hand salary at the entry level ranges between ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month depending on posting location and allowances.
As officers receive promotions, their salary increases significantly.
At the Senior Time Scale and Junior Administrative Grade, basic pay increases progressively.
At the level of District Magistrate or Director, salary can range between ₹1,18,500 to ₹1,44,200 basic pay depending on seniority.
At higher positions such as Principal Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary, or equivalent central posts, basic pay may reach ₹2,25,000 per month.
The highest post, Cabinet Secretary of India, receives a fixed basic pay of ₹2,50,000 per month.
In addition to salary, IAS officers receive benefits such as official residence, government vehicle, staff support, medical facilities, and pension benefits under the National Pension System.
Direct Official Link
Candidates must refer only to the official Union Public Service Commission website for accurate and updated information regarding Civil Services Examination and service rules:
For official pay rules and service conditions, refer to Government of India notifications available through official government portals.
Always verify details from official sources before making career decisions.