One of the biggest motivations for aspirants preparing for the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination is the prestigious career, attractive salary, and long-term growth opportunities offered after commission. Beyond pay, a CDS officer enjoys honour, authority, job security, and lifelong respect.
This article explains the CDS salary structure (Army, Navy & Air Force), rank hierarchy, allowances, and career growth path after commission.
CDS Salary Structure After Commission (2026)
The salary of CDS officers is based on the 7th Pay Commission.
Starting Salary After Training
Basic Pay: ₹56,100 per month
Pay Level: Level 10
Rank: Lieutenant / Sub-Lieutenant / Flying Officer
Rank-Wise Pay Structure (Army, Navy & Air Force)
| Rank | Pay Level | Basic Pay (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Lieutenant / Flying Officer | Level 10 | 56,100 |
| Captain / Flight Lieutenant | Level 10B | 61,300 |
| Major / Squadron Leader | Level 11 | 69,400 |
| Lieutenant Colonel / Wing Commander | Level 12A | 1,21,200 |
| Colonel / Group Captain | Level 13 | 1,30,600 |
| Brigadier / Air Commodore | Level 13A | 1,39,600 |
| Major General / AVM | Level 14 | 1,44,200 |
| Lieutenant General / AOC-in-C | Level 15 | 1,82,200 |
| HAG+ Scale | Level 16 | 2,05,400 |
| VCOAS / AOC-in-C (Army/IAF) | Level 17 | 2,25,000 |
| COAS / CNS / CAS | Level 18 | 2,50,000 |
Military Service Allowance (MSA)
₹15,500 per month (up to the rank of Brigadier)
Applicable to officers in field and operational areas
Major Allowances for CDS Officers
| Allowance | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | As per govt rates |
| HRA / Field Area Allowance | Based on posting |
| Siachen Allowance | ₹42,500 |
| Island Duty Allowance | ₹25,000 |
| Flying Allowance | ₹25,000 |
| Transport Allowance | ₹3,600 – ₹7,200 |
| Uniform Allowance | ₹20,000 annually |
Allowances vary depending on posting, branch, and operational role.
Career Growth in Indian Army (Through CDS)
Promotion Timeline (Approximate)
Lieutenant → Captain: 2 years
Captain → Major: 6 years
Major → Lieutenant Colonel: 13 years
Lieutenant Colonel → Colonel: 15–18 years (selection-based)
Higher ranks: Merit + vacancies
Commission Types
Permanent Commission (IMA)
Short Service Commission (OTA) – option to extend up to 14 years and convert to PC
Career Growth in Indian Navy (Through CDS)
Structured promotion based on service and performance
Opportunities in:
Executive branch
Technical branch
Exposure to:
Ship command
Submarine service
Aircraft carriers
Foreign naval missions
Career Growth in Indian Air Force (Through CDS)
Promotions depend on:
Branch (Flying / Ground Duty)
Medical fitness
Performance
Specialised roles:
Fighter pilots
Transport pilots
ATC
Technical officers
Post-Retirement Benefits
Pension & gratuity
Canteen (CSD) facilities
ECHS medical facilities
Re-employment opportunities
Respect & social status
Other Benefits of CDS Career
Free accommodation or HRA
Free medical for self & dependents
Leave travel concessions
Adventure training & foreign postings
Education support for children
Why CDS Career Is More Than Just Salary
Leadership from an early age
Nation-first service
Fast promotions compared to civil jobs
High job satisfaction
Lifetime identity as an officer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the starting salary after CDS?
₹56,100 per month plus allowances.
Q2. Do CDS officers get salary during training?
Yes, a stipend of ₹56,100/month during training.
Q3. Is CDS salary same for Army, Navy & Air Force?
Yes, base pay is the same; allowances differ.
Q4. Can OTA officers get permanent commission?
Yes, SSC officers can apply for PC based on vacancies.
Q5. Do CDS officers get pension?
Yes, after completing the required service period.
Q6. Are promotions guaranteed?
Up to Major level (Army) are time-bound; higher ranks are merit-based.
Conclusion
A career through CDS offers an excellent salary structure, fast career growth, unmatched allowances, and lifelong respect. While the financial benefits are strong, the honour of serving the nation as an officer makes CDS a truly rewarding career path.
If you aspire for leadership, adventure, and purpose—CDS is one of the best careers in India.
