The Governor of an Indian state holds a pivotal constitutional role, serving as the head of the state executive, akin to the President of India at the central level. As of 2025, the Governor Salary in India is Rs.350,000 per month. This figure reflects an increase made by Parliament in 2018, elevating the salary from Rs. 1.10 lakh to Rs. 3.50 lakh per month. This article delves into the comprehensive salary structure of state governors in India and explores their significant constitutional position.
The framework for the state executive is outlined in the Indian Constitution, specifically within Articles 153 to 167 in Part VI. This section addresses the governance in the states, where the state executive comprises the Governor, the chief minister, the council of ministers, and the advocate general of the state.
Following previous discussions on theChief Minister Salary,Prime Minister of India Salary, andPresident of India Salary, this piece further elucidates the Salary of a Governor in India, completing our exploration of government officials’ salaries. Before examining the detailed salary structure, it is essential to briefly understand the constitutional authority vested in the position of Governor.
India’s Constitution establishes a parliamentary system for its states, mirroring the structure at the Centre. Part VI of the Constitution specifically details state governments. Notably, unlike the national level which has a Vice-President, there is no corresponding vice-governor at the state level. For those interested, information on theVice President of India Salary in 2025is also available.
The governor functions as the state’s chief executive, yet their role is largely symbolic, similar to that of the president. Furthermore, the governor acts as a representative of the central government, thereby holding two primary responsibilities. While each state typically has its own governor, the 7th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1956 enabled one person to serve as governor for more than one state. The President of India holds the authority to appoint governors in the states. The Constitution does not specify the criteria used for evaluating candidates for this position.
Per Month Salary of State Governor in India
The comprehensive salary structure, along with the benefits and allowances provided to the Governor of India, is detailed in the table below. These emoluments and privileges are governed by the Governors (Emoluments, Allowances and Privileges) Act, 1982.
| Particulars | Salary (₹) | Important Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Salary | Rs 3,50,000 per month | This basic salary is in accordance with 2018 Union Budget revision |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | Not applicable | DA is generally not given to Governors |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | Not applicable | Governor is provided an official residence (Raj Bhavan) |
| Accommodation | Rent-free | Official residence (fully furnished). Allowances for renewing furnishings and for maintenance of official residences, |
| Medical Facilities | Free of cost | Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or equivalent |
| Travel Allowance | Done through reimbursement | For official and some personal travels. Conveyance, to use without payment of rent or hire, such number of motor-vehicles. |
| Leave allowances | As applicable | As applicable |
| Other Allowances | Given | Entertainment allowance, hospitality grant, household establishment expenses, office expenses, allowance for miscellaneous expenses, and tour expenses |
| Security | Given | Personal and residence security covered by state police |
| Staff | Given | Includes private secretary, personal assistant, etc. |
| Other Expenses | Given | As determined and approved from the President of India |
In addition to the stipulated salary, the Governor is entitled to reside in his official home, the Raj Bhavan, free of charge. He also receives a salary, benefits, and perks set by Parliament. Should an individual be appointed as governor for more than one state, the associated pay and benefits are sourced from those states, as determined by the president. A crucial provision ensures that a Governor’s salary and benefits cannot be diminished during his tenure.
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Privileges and Immunities for Governors in India
During his term in office, a Governor is safeguarded by certain privileges and immunities. He cannot be charged with any crimes, including those stemming from his personal actions, nor can he be arrested or incarcerated. However, it is permissible to initiate civil proceedings against him for personal actions while in office, provided a two months’ notice is given.
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Is there Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits for Governors in India?
The provision of an automatic pension for governors in India is not standard; rather, it is contingent upon individual state laws. Post-retirement benefits are generally limited, as detailed below:
- **Accommodation:** Usually not provided after retirement. Some states may have guest houses for limited stays.
- **Medical Facilities:** Active under the Central Government Health Scheme or a similar state program.
- **Security:** Not assured. Z or Y category security may be given in rare cases if there’s a perceived threat.
- **Support Staff:** Generally, there is no personal staff or secretarial help once retired. However, the ex-Governor can appoint an assistant, who will be paid up to Rs. 25,000 a month , and this cost will be reimbursed.
- **Travel Allowance:** Generally not offered unless for specific government work.
- **Other Perks:** Retired governors don’t get perks like cars or phones unlike some officials.
- **Honorary Roles:** They may receive ceremonial or advisory roles from the government, but it’s not guaranteed.
In contrast to MPs or judges, governors do not receive automatic pensions or continuous benefits after their retirement. The post-retirement perks are predominantly restricted and are subject to state-specific regulations or central government decisions.
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Governor Vs. Lieutenant Governor’s Salary in India
In the Indian administrative structure, a lieutenant governor (LG) or an administrator oversees one of the eight union territories. Specifically, lieutenant governors manage five territories: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, and Puducherry. Concurrently, an administrator is responsible for the three territories of Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and Lakshadweep. The salary comparison between a Governor and a Lieutenant Governor in India is presented in the table below:
| Established Date | Position | Per month Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 February 2018 | Governors | ₹350,000 |
| 1 February 2018 | Lieutenant Governor’s | ₹225,000 |
Powers and Functions of the Constitutional Position of Governors in India
The Governor is endowed with several categories of powers, each crucial to the state’s governance. These include:
- **Executive powers:** These pertain to administrative duties and the authority to make or revoke appointments.
- **Legislative powers:** These involve law-making processes and collaboration with the state legislature, which includes the State Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the State Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).
- **Judicial powers:** These empower the Governor to grant pardons and reprieves, among other related functions.
- **Discretionary powers:** These are powers the Governor may exercise in certain situations.
The aforementioned powers are fundamental to the Governor’s role. For further understanding of the unique benefits associated with serving as a state governor in India, please refer to the details provided below.