The Director General of Police (DGP) holds the highest rank within the police force of an Indian state or union territory. This esteemed position, a three-star rank, is filled through selection by the cabinet. A DGP’s primary responsibility is to oversee the entire police force and manage all law enforcement activities within their jurisdiction. This powerful role is instrumental in maintaining public order, implementing crime prevention strategies, and ensuring community safety. The state government appoints the DGP, who then collaborates closely with various law enforcement agencies and government officials to uphold the law and safeguard citizens’ rights. Regarding compensation, a DGP receives a basic salary of INR 2,25,000. Including allowances, the gross monthly salary can reach approximately INR 2,70,000, though this amount varies by state. This article explores the comprehensive salary structure of the Director General of Police in India, detailing their basic pay, allowances, perks, and career progression across different states.
DGP Salary Structure (Pay Level 17 – Apex Scale)
The complete salary structure for a Director General of Police (DGP) is detailed in the table below, reflecting the components contributing to their overall compensation:
| Component | Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| Pay Level | 17 (Apex) |
| Basic Pay | ₹2,25,000 (Fixed) |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | ₹94,500 (42% of Basic Pay) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹60,750 (27% for X-class cities) |
| Gross Salary | ₹3,19,500 |
| Deductions | ₹66,950 (NPS: ₹31,950 + Income Tax: ₹35,000) |
| In-hand Salary | ₹2,52,550 |
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DGP Salary Per Month In-hand
The approximate monthly in-hand salary for a Director General of Police (DGP) in India stands at INR 2,52,550. This sum comprises a basic pay of INR 2,25,000 per month, in accordance with the 7th Pay Commission under Pay Level 17 (Apex Scale), alongside various allowances such as Dearness Allowance (DA) and House Rent Allowance (HRA). It is important to note that the final take-home amount might exhibit slight variations, influenced by factors like the officer’s city of posting and mandatory deductions, including contributions to the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and income tax.
Annual Package (Pay Level 17) for DGP Salary
The annual salary package for a Director General of Police (DGP) is outlined in the following table:
| Component | Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay (Monthly) | ₹2,25,000 |
| Dearness Allowance (42%) | ₹94,500 |
| HRA (27% for X-class cities) | ₹60,750 |
| Monthly Gross Salary | ₹3,19,500 |
| Annual Gross Salary | ₹38,34,000 |
| Annual Deductions (Approx.) | ₹8,03,400 (NPS + Income Tax) |
| Annual In-Hand Salary | ₹30,30,600 (Approx.) |
DGP Allowances in India (2025)
DGPs in India receive various allowances in addition to their basic pay. Detailed information regarding these allowances for 2025 is presented in the table below:
| Allowance | Rate / Amount | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | 53% of Basic Pay | Increased to 53% as of July 2024. |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | 27% / 18% / 9% of Basic Pay | Applicable for X / Y / Z class cities respectively. |
| Transport Allowance | ₹7,200 + DA (for higher-grade officers) | Varies by city classification and officer grade. |
| Children Education Allowance (CEA) | ₹6,750 per month (for up to two children) | Raised by 25% after DA crossed 50%. |
| Hostel Subsidy | ₹20,250 per month | Increased by 25% following DA hike. |
| Special Duty Allowance (SDA) | 30% of Basic Pay | Applicable to AIS officers posted in Northeast and Ladakh regions. |
| Dress Allowance | ₹27,225 annually | Increased by 25% post DA hike. |
| Risk Allowance | Varies based on role and hazard level | Applicable to officers in hazardous duties. |
| Medical Allowance | ₹1,000 per month (Fixed Medical Allowance) | For pensioners not availing CGHS facilities. |
| Leave Travel Concession (LTC) | As per eligibility and travel destination | Covers travel expenses for self and family during leave. |
DGP Salary Across Different States in India
The salary for a DGP can vary across different states in India. This variability primarily stems from state government policies regarding allowances, which can differ based on factors like the cost of living within that specific state. Consequently, state-specific allowances such as House Rent Allowance (HRA) and Dearness Allowance (DA) can either increase or decrease the overall in-hand salary, even when the basic pay is fixed by the central government. The following table provides a comparison of DGP salaries across various states:
| State | Pay Level | Basic Salary (₹) | Allowances | Gross Salary (Approx. ₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (X City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,75,000 – ₹3,10,000 |
| Maharashtra | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (Y City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| Tamil Nadu | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (Z City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,55,000 – ₹3,05,000 |
| Karnataka | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (X City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,60,000 – ₹3,10,000 |
| West Bengal | 16 | ₹2,05,400 | DA, HRA (Z City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,35,000 – ₹2,80,000 |
| Kerala | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (Y City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,50,000 – ₹2,90,000 |
| Delhi | 17 | ₹2,25,000 | DA, HRA (X City), Risk, CEA | ₹2,80,000 – ₹3,20,000 |
Important Takeaways
- The Pay Level remains consistent across all states; all DGPs are typically positioned at Pay Level 17, though other ranks such as Inspector Generals (IGs) or Additional Director Generals of Police (ADGPs) may fall under different pay levels.
- Allowances demonstrate variability based on the cost of living in each state, particularly the House Rent Allowance (HRA). Metropolitan areas, categorized as X cities, generally provide the highest HRA.
- Furthermore, some states extend additional allowances to police officers, which may include risk allowances or Children Education Allowance (CEA).
Police Rank Wise Salary Comparison in India: From SP to DGP
To provide a broader perspective on police remuneration, the following table details a comparison of salaries across various ranks, from Superintendent of Police (SP) up to Director General of Police (DGP):
| Rank | Pay Level | Basic Pay (₹) | Approx. Gross Salary (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superintendent of Police (SP) | Level 11/12 | 67,700 – 78,800 | ₹95,000 – ₹1,15,000 |
| Deputy Inspector General (DIG) | Level 13 | 1,31,100 | ₹1,75,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Inspector General (IG) | Level 14 | 1,44,200 | ₹1,90,000 – ₹2,25,000 |
| Additional DGP (ADGP) | Level 15 | 1,82,200 | ₹2,30,000 – ₹2,50,000 |
| Director General of Police (DGP) | Level 16/17 (Apex) | ₹2,25,000 (fixed) | ₹2,52,000 – ₹2,80,000 |
Central vs. State DGP Salary and Role Comparison
To understand the comprehensive pay landscape for officers at this senior level, the table below provides a clear breakdown of DGP-level salaries across diverse contexts. This includes positions within state police, central organizations, and other DG-rank roles, offering a comparative view of remuneration:
| Position/Rank | Pay Level | Monthly Salary (₹) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Director General of Police (State Police Chief) | Level 17 (Apex) | ₹2,25,000 (Fixed) | Highest-ranking police officer in a state; excludes allowances |
| DGs in Central Police Organizations (e.g., BSF, CRPF) | Level 17 (Apex) | ₹2,25,000 (Fixed) | Equivalent to State DGP; excludes allowances |
| Other DG-rank officers in State (e.g., Prisons, ACB) | Level 16 | ₹2,05,400 – ₹2,24,400 | Excludes allowances; depends on post and seniority |
| Director of IB and CBI (Post-Nov 2022) | Level 17 (Apex) | ₹2,25,000 (Fixed) | Apex scale granted; parity with Secretary-rank IAS officers |
How is Director General of Police Appointed?
The appointment of a Director General of Police (DGP) is a structured process undertaken by the state government. The selection involves choosing from eligible senior officers, typically those belonging to the Indian Police Service (IPS). State governments are required to consult with and receive approval from the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), which convenes a panel of experts for the selection process. Key parameters for selection include an officer’s merit, seniority, and extensive experience within the police force. Generally, candidates are expected to have an average of 30 years of service or hold the rank of Additional Director General (ADG) or an equivalent position to be considered for the DGP role.
To ensure stability, the Supreme Court has mandated a fixed term of two years for a DGP. While a Governor’s approval is not universally required for a DGP’s appointment across all states, it is a necessary step in some. Furthermore, any transfer or dismissal of a DGP by the state government must strictly adhere to the criteria and methodology established by Supreme Court guidelines. This adherence ensures professional integrity, transparency, and upholds a merit-based and independent appointment process.
Main Responsibilities of a Director General of Police (DGP)
As the head of the entire police system within a state, the Director General of Police (DGP) holds a pivotal position. The key roles and responsibilities of a DGP are outlined below:
How to Become DGP in India?
The journey to becoming a Director General of Police in India commences with successful entry into the Indian Police Service (IPS) through the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Exam. Upon completing their rigorous training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA), a candidate is assigned to various posts within the police force. An IPS officer’s initial entry into the force is typically at the Assistant Superintendent of Police level. Through consistent performance and dedicated service, the officer progresses through regular promotions, ascending to ranks such as Deputy SP, SP, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), and Inspector General (IG). After approximately 30 years of service, an officer may be considered for the prestigious position of DGP, with promotions typically based on accumulated seniority and extensive experience.
Can a DGP Become Cabinet Secretary or NSA?
A Director General of Police (DGP), who holds the supreme office in a state’s police administration, is highly qualified for significant post-retirement assignments. Given a distinguished career in police and administration, a former DGP could potentially serve as a Cabinet Secretary or National Security Advisor. As the head of state police forces, such an officer’s extensive experience in maintaining law and order is invaluable for addressing broader national security issues. This, combined with their strong leadership capabilities, makes them suitable for these high-ranking positions. However, the path to such appointments ultimately depends on an individual’s specific expertise, established networks, and the prevailing requirements of the government at that time.
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