For those aspiring to a crucial role in public service, the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) position in Bihar offers a competitive remuneration package. As outlined by the 7th Pay Commission and 2025 BPSC regulations, a newly appointed CDPO, selected through the BPSC, begins with a monthly basic pay of ₹53,100 at Pay Level 9, accompanied by a Grade Pay of ₹5,400. Factoring in various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and medical reimbursements, the total monthly earnings can vary significantly, ranging from approximately ₹53,000 to ₹1,67,000, influenced by an officer’s experience and posting location. Beyond the direct salary, CDPOs are also entitled to a suite of benefits, including government vehicles, utility cost coverage, robust pension plans, and additional allowances, which are applicable both during their two-year probationary period and throughout their subsequent service.
CDPO Full Form, Meaning, and Qualifications
The acronym CDPO represents a Child Development Project Officer. This designation is highly sought after within the BPSC posts in Bihar. A Child Development Project Officer holds a vital government role dedicated to ensuring the welfare of children and facilitating programs designed for their comprehensive development, especially through the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS). This position primarily involves supervising Anganwadi centers, monitoring initiatives for child health and nutrition, and collaborating with healthcare professionals to enhance the well-being of both mothers and children. The full form of CDPO is a common topic of discussion among individuals aspiring to work within the Anganwadi framework. This article will provide a detailed overview of the Anganwadi CDPO salary in Bihar.
Eligibility for BPSC CDPO
The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) is responsible for organizing the recruitment examination for CDPO positions in Bihar. To be eligible for application, prospective candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Furthermore, applicants must be between 21 and 37 years old, with certain demographic groups benefiting from age relaxations. If you are interested to know about Anganwadi Supervisor Salary Per Month 2025 in Bihar, please check that for more clarity.
BPSC CDPO Officer Salary in Bihar
The salary structure for a BPSC CDPO is determined by the 7th Pay Commission guidelines, placing the position at Pay Level 9. The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) is also responsible for defining the associated perks and benefits that complement the basic pay. Below is a detailed breakdown of the various components that constitute a CDPO’s monthly earnings:
| Component | Amount (₹ per month) |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay | ₹53,100 (entry-level) |
| Grade Pay | ₹5,400 |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ~17% of basic ≈ ₹9,027 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per rules (approx 8–27% of basic) |
| Medical Allowance | As per rules |
| Overtime, Bonus & Other Perks | As per gov’t norms (bonus, medical reimbursement, allowances for electricity, telephone, etc.) |
| Gross Salary Range | ₹53,100 – ₹1,67,800 (depending on level & increments) |
| Estimated In‑Hand Salary | Approx ₹79,600 at entry (gross ~₹93,947; deductions include PF, NPS, tax) |
Upon commencing their service, a newly appointed BPSC CDPO (Level 9) receives a starting basic salary of ₹53,100, augmented by a grade pay of ₹5,400. When factoring in the Dearness Allowance, which is approximately ₹9,000, along with House Rent Allowance and other supplementary benefits, the total remuneration for a CDPO can escalate to approximately ₹1.68 lakh at the highest career level. After accounting for standard deductions such as Provident Fund/National Pension System (PF/NPS) and applicable taxes, the initial take-home pay for an entry-level officer is estimated to be around ₹79,600, with this amount progressively increasing as the officer gains experience and advances in their career. Know SDM Salary in Bihar 2025 with Pay Scale, Perks & Growth Opportunities for Sub-Divisional Magistrates and SDO Salary in Bihar and Jharkhand.
BPSC CDPO Work Responsibilities
The BPSC CDPO holds a critically important position within Bihar’s administrative framework. The job profile encompasses a diverse range of duties, broadly categorized as:
- ICDS Implementation
- Administrative & Planning Duties
- Probation, Training, & Career Progression
- Perks & Allowances
- Posting & Career Outlook in Bihar
Detailed Work Profile
Delving deeper into the responsibilities, a CDPO is tasked with the direct management and execution of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and various nutrition programs specifically tailored for children and mothers in their designated operational areas. A key aspect of their role involves continuous oversight of the daily operations at Anganwadi centers, which includes supervising both workers and helpers. This supervision extends to recommending and approving leave requests, meticulously tracking attendance, and consistently ensuring the quality and standard of services delivered. Furthermore, CDPOs are responsible for preparing and submitting budget proposals and strategic plans to the Directorate. They also engage in collaborative efforts with other local government departments, fostering partnerships with health, education, and welfare officials. Another aspect of their duties involves proposing awards and incentives to recognize the contributions of outstanding Anganwadi workers and helpers.
Probation, Training, and Career Progression
New recruits into the CDPO role undergo a mandatory 2-year probationary period. During this time, they receive comprehensive training and their performance is rigorously assessed. The government reserves the right to terminate employment during this phase if necessary. Upon successful completion of probation, officers transition to a Level 9 pay scale under the 7th Pay Commission, opening avenues for regular increments and promotions based on their accumulated experience and demonstrated performance. In addition to their salary, CDPOs are granted a Grade Pay of ₹5,400, along with a range of benefits such as House Rent Allowance, Medical Allowance, Travel Allowance, Overtime allowances, and various bonuses. The government typically covers essential operational costs, including electricity and phone services, and provides an official vehicle for official duties. CDPO roles are primarily situated at the block level, predominantly in rural areas across Bihar. There’s a clear path for career growth, with chances for promotions and added responsibilities as you gain experience. Also check Block Development Officer Salary in Bihar 2025.
Key Highlights of the CDPO Role
To summarize the core aspects of the Child Development Project Officer position, the key highlights include:
- Position: Chief/Child Development Project Officer (Level 9)
- Core Duties: ICDS oversight, Anganwadi management, staff supervision, planning.
- Admin Work: Budget proposals, inter-department coordination, award nominations.
- Probation: 2 years with training & performance evaluation.
- Pay & Perks: Pay Band: ₹53,100–₹1,67,800; DA, HRA, TA, MA, bonuses, and official benefits.
- Career Growth: Linked to service length, performance; path to higher managerial roles.
Exemplary performance can lead to elevations to higher responsibilities and subsequent promotions within the department. The typical career trajectory within the Bihar Social Welfare Department is structured as follows:
| Position | Estimated Years of Service Required |
|---|---|
| Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) | Entry Level |
| District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) | After 8–10 years |
| Deputy Director (ICDS) | After 16–18 years |
| Joint Director (Social Welfare) | After 22–25 years |
| Additional Director | After 27–30 years |
| Director (Social Welfare Department) | 30+ years or towards retirement |
These roles collectively illustrate a clear path for upward mobility and professional advancement within the Bihar Social Welfare Department hierarchy.
How to Become a BPSC CDPO under Bihar Public Service Commission?
Becoming a BPSC CDPO requires successfully clearing the BPSC examination. The initial step involves ensuring that you meet all the prescribed eligibility and qualification criteria set forth by the BPSC. It is advisable to read Bihar Public Service Commission Eligibility and Qualifications and Syllabus thoroughly prior to attempting the examination. Following this, candidates must successfully navigate the 3 stages of the BPSC exam. Upon selection, individuals undergo necessary training and serve a probationary period. During this time, it is crucial to familiarize oneself with the job’s demands and consistently achieve results. Finally, successful completion of probation leads to permanent appointment, allowing officers to fully embark on their duties as a BPSC CDPO. Check complete and comprehensive details on BPSC Salary with Pay Scale, In-Hand Salary, Perks & Allowances.