The Combined Defence Services (CDS) Exam is one of the esteemed exams designed to recruit commissioned officers to the Indian Armed Forces including the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and The Officer Training Academy (OTA). The CDS exam is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) twice a year. Serving the nation as a soldier is a matter of pride, honour, and responsibility which is unmatched. Furthermore, the salary and allowances associated with these roles also offer a rigorous incentive.

This comprehensive article is written to provide detailed and authentic insights into the salary structure of the CDS 1 2025 exam, entailing pay scales, allowances, benefits, and career growth.

Overview of the CDS Examination

Before delving into the salary structure, let’s have a look at the CDS examination details. Aspirants who clear the exam will go through rigorous training at their respective academies:

1. Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun – For entry into the Indian Army.
2. Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala – For entry into the Indian Navy.
3. Air Force Academy (AFA), Hyderabad – For entry into the Indian Air Force.
4. Officers’ Training Academy (OTA), Chennai – For entry into the Indian Army (Short Service Commission).

CDS Pay Scale and Post-wise Salary

The Salary of officers commissioned through CDS varies based on their rank and the salary structure includes basic pay, allowances, and key benefits. Below we have a breakdown of the salary structure and other benefits associated with it:

1. Stipend During Training: During the training period at academies like INA, IMA, ADA, and OTA, aspirants get a fixed stipend of INR 56,100 per month which is equivalent to the basic pay of a Lieutenant and is credited throughout the training period.
2. Salary After Commissioning: After completion of the training period, Candidates become commissioned officers in their respective forces. The ranks and their corresponding pay levels are as follows:

3. Key Allowances: Candidates get various allowances along with their basic pay. These may vary based on their ranks, location of posting, and the nature of their duty.

• Dearness Allowances DA): DA is calculated as a percentage of the basic pay and is revised twice a year to beat the inflation rate.
• Filed Area Allowance: Depending on the posting location, it varies from INR 10,500 to INR 31,500 per month.
• High Altitude Allowance: Officers posted at high-altitude locations like Leh or Siachen range from INR 2,700 to INR 25,000 per month.
• Kit Maintenance Allowance: To maintain uniform and equipment expenses, INR 20,000 annually.
• Flying Allowance (For Air Officers): Pilots and other flying personnel receive INR 25,000 per month.
• Transportation Allowance: It varies from INR 3600 to INR 7200 per month, depending on the city classification.
• Special Force Allowance: Special forces officials receive INR 25,000 per month.
• House Rent Allowance (HRA): Varies on the city of residence, it is 8%, 16%, and 24% of the basic pay.

Salary Growth: Career Growth

There is a clear path for job advancement in the Armed Forces of India. Promotions are contingent upon eligibility, service length, and performance for officers. An overview of the normal career path is shown below:

• Lieutenant (Entry-level rank after training): ₹56,100 + allowances.
• Captain (After 2 years of service): ₹61,300 + allowances.
• Major (After 6 years of service): ₹69,400 + allowances.
• Lieutenant Colonel (After 13 years of service): ₹1,21,200 + allowances.
• Colonel (After 15 years of service): ₹1,30,600 + allowances.
• Brigadier (Selection-based): ₹1,39,600 + allowances.
• Major General (High-level command roles): ₹1,44,200 + allowances.
• Lieutenant General/General (Top leadership positions): ₹1,82,200 – ₹2,50,000.

Conclusion

The salary structure for the Combined Defence Service (CDS 1 2025) exam considered one of the most prestigious, responsible, and risky along with a successful career in the Indian Armed Forces. The financial benefits, which range from generous base salary and benefits to a host of other benefits, are evidence of the worth and prestige of serving the country.

Joining the military through CDS offers not only financial stability but also a rewarding career characterized by self-discipline, personal development, and patriotism. If you put in the necessary preparation, you can soon be donning the uniform and reaping its rewards.