This article provides an in-depth look at the salary structures for Second Division Assistant (SDA) and First Division Assistant (FDA) positions in Karnataka for 2025, administered by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC). Successful candidates can expect a monthly SDA salary ranging from Rs.29,000 to Rs.32,000 , while FDA roles offer between Rs.39,000 – Rs.42,000 per month, inclusive of allowances and after standard deductions. Further details on allowances and in-hand salary figures are comprehensively covered.
Under the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), both SDA and FDA represent vital clerical-level government roles within the state. The full form for SDA in KPSC is Second Division Assistant, and for FDA, it is First Division Assistant. These positions serve as the backbone of administrative functions across various state departments.
The role of a Second Division Assistant (SDA) is an entry-level clerical position within state departments. Responsibilities include essential office tasks such as data entry, maintaining records, managing file dispatch, and assisting senior officers with their daily assignments. Eligibility for this role requires applicants to have passed the 12th grade or possess an equivalent educational qualification.
Conversely, a First Division Assistant (FDA) holds a more senior clerical position, offering greater responsibility than an SDA. Key duties for an FDA involve drafting correspondence, independently managing files, contributing to decision-making processes, and meticulously maintaining official records. A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is a mandatory requirement for this post.
Both SDA and FDA positions are permanent state government jobs, characterized by inherent stability, prospects for timely promotions, and comprehensive retirement benefits, all governed by Karnataka government service rules.
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The key distinctions between First Division Assistant (FDA) and Second Division Assistant (SDA) roles are outlined in the table below:
| Criteria | FDA (First Division Assistant) | SDA (Second Division Assistant) |
|---|---|---|
| Rank | Senior clerical post | Junior clerical post |
| Qualification Required | Bachelor’s Degree | PUC (12th) or equivalent |
| Work Nature | File handling, drafting, supervision | Data entry, registry, assistance |
| Promotion Scope | Faster promotions than SDA | Slower than FDA |
SDA Salary in Karnataka
The Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) determines the salary, job profile, and allowances for Second Division Assistants (SDA). The comprehensive salary structure for SDA is presented in the following table:
| Particulars | Salary Highlights |
|---|---|
| SDA Pay scale | Rs 21,400- Rs. 42,000 per month |
| Allowances | Allowances are given as per state provisions. Dearness Allowances House Rent Allowances Medical Facilities Travelling Allowances Other Allowances |
| Gross Salary | ₹32,000 – ₹34,000 |
| In-hand Salary | ₹29,000 – ₹31,000 per month after allowances and standard deductions |
The initial in-hand salary for an SDA in Karnataka typically ranges between ₹29,000 – ₹31,000 per month, after factoring in all allowances and standard deductions.
Note: The precise in-hand salary may experience minor fluctuations based on the assigned posting district, the classification of the city (A/B/C), and any specific allowances applicable. For definitive salary information, candidates should always refer to official KPSC notifications.
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Second Division Assistant (SDA) Job Description
A Second Division Assistant (SDA) within the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) framework is primarily engaged in fundamental clerical and administrative duties. This encompasses responsibilities such as data entry, systematic file management, processing standard office documents, and providing support to senior personnel in their daily operations. SDAs are frequently the initial point of contact for public inquiries, necessitating precision and efficiency in their documentation and processing tasks. These professionals are deployed across numerous state departments, offering essential administrative backing to government functions.
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FDA Salary in Karnataka
Similar to the SDA role, the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) also serves as the determining body for the FDA salary, associated job profile, and applicable allowances. The detailed salary structure for FDA positions is outlined below:
| Particulars | Salary Highlights |
|---|---|
| FDA Pay scale | ₹27,650 – ₹52,650 (latest revised) |
| Allowances | Allowances are given as per state provisions. Dearness Allowances House Rent Allowances Medical Facilities Travelling Allowances Other Allowances |
| Additional benefits | Pension, Medical facilities, and Travel allowances |
| Gross Salary | ₹42,000 – ₹44,000 |
| In-hand Salary | ₹39,000 – ₹42,000 per month after allowances and standard deductions |
Note: The precise in-hand salary can exhibit slight variations contingent on the specific posting district, the classification of the city (A/B/C), and other particular allowances. For the most accurate salary figures, candidates should consult official KPSC notifications.
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First Division Assistant (FDA) Job Description
First Division Assistants (FDA) undertake responsibilities that are notably greater than those of SDAs. Their primary duties encompass drafting official correspondence, verifying records, overseeing departmental files, generating reports, and assisting senior officials in critical decision-making processes. Frequently, FDAs are tasked with supervising SDAs and ensuring the seamless operation of administrative workflows. This role may also involve handling confidential information and collaborating with various government offices. Proficiency in both Kannada and English, alongside robust analytical and clerical competencies, is essential for this position.
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SDA Salary in Karnataka Vs. FDA Salary Per Month in Karnataka
A direct comparison of the First Division Assistant (FDA) and Second Division Assistant (SDA) positions, including their respective salary structures, is provided in the table below:
| Post | Pay Scale | In-hand Salary (Approx.) | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDA | ₹27,650 – ₹52,650 (latest revised) | ₹39,000 – ₹42,000 | Group ‘C’ (Higher Clerical Post) |
| SDA | ₹21,400 – ₹42,000 | ₹32,000 – ₹35,000 | Group ‘C’ (Entry-level Clerical Post) |
Key considerations highlight the FDA as a senior role compared to the SDA. Consequently, an FDA position offers a higher pay scale, enhanced opportunities for promotion, and broader responsibilities. It is consistently observed that the in-hand salary for an FDA surpasses that of an SDA. In summary, the First Division Assistant salary in Karnataka consistently exceeds the Second Division Assistant salary.
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SDA vs FDA Promotions in KPSC
The potential career progression paths and associated timeframes for both SDA and FDA roles within the KPSC are detailed in the table below:
| Post | Promotion Path | Timeframe (Approx.) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDA (Second Division Assistant) | Promotion to FDA (First Division Assistant) | After 5–7 years of service (based on seniority and vacancies) | On qualifying internal exams and performance |
| Assistant Section Officer | Additional 4–5 years | Promoted within the same department | |
| Section Officer | After more years of service and seniority | Supervisory/administrative role | |
| Under Secretary (Group B) | Based on departmental promotion & eligibility | Gazetted post (rare but possible in long tenure) | |
| FDA (First Division Assistant) | Promotion to Assistant Section Officer | After 5–6 years of service | Based on internal exam and performance |
| Section Officer | After another 4–5 years | Managerial role in government departments | |
| Under Secretary | Subject to seniority and merit | Enters Group B level | |
| Deputy Secretary / Joint Secretary | Long-term career growth | Group A level posts (less frequent) |
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SDA vs FDA Exam Eligibility, Qualification, and Recruitment Process under Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) for 2025
The specific requirements concerning eligibility, educational qualifications, and the recruitment process for both SDA and FDA positions under the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) for 2025 are systematically presented in the following table:
| Criteria | SDA (Second Division Assistant) | FDA (First Division Assistant) |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Must have passed 12th (PUC) or equivalent from a recognized board | Must have a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university |
| Minimum Age Limit | 18 years | 21 years |
| Maximum Age Limit | 35 years (general); age relaxation for reserved categories | 35 years (general); age relaxation for reserved categories |
| Recruitment Authority | Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) | Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) |
| Selection Process | Written Exam (Objective) + Kannada Language Test | Written Exam (Descriptive + Objective) + Kannada Test |
| Exam Pattern |
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|
| Post Level | Entry-level clerical/administrative post | Mid-level clerical/administrative post |
| Posting Location | Across Karnataka Government Departments | Across Karnataka Government Departments |
| Promotion Opportunities | Can be promoted to FDA, then to higher clerical roles | Can be promoted to Section Officer and Gazetted ranks |
| Language Proficiency | Must be proficient in Kannada | Must be proficient in Kannada |