Para SF Commando Salary | Perks & Pay Scale

When it comes to elite forces of the Indian Armed Forces, the Para Special Forces (Para SF) stand out for their bravery, strength, and specialized training. These commandos are part of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment and are among the most respected and well-equipped units in the country. One common question that arises among defence aspirants is: “What is the Para SF Commando Salary?” In this blog, brought to you by Indian Defence Institute – the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun – we’ll dive into the full salary structure, perks, and allowances that a Para SF Commando receives.
What is Para SF?
Before we break down the Para SF Commando Salary, let’s first understand what Para SF is. The Para SF, short for Parachute Special Forces, is a special operations unit tasked with conducting counter-insurgency, hostage rescue, covert operations, and cross-border missions. These commandos are handpicked through one of the toughest selection processes in the Indian Army and undergo months of rigorous training, both physically and mentally.
Para SF Commando Salary: Base Pay Structure
The Para SF Commando Salary is based on the rank held by the soldier within the Indian Army. Let’s look at the basic pay structure as per the 7th Pay Commission:
- Sepoy (Soldier): ₹21,700 – ₹69,100
- Lance Naik: ₹21,700 – ₹69,100
- Naik: ₹25,500 – ₹81,100
- Havildar: ₹29,200 – ₹92,300
- Naib Subedar: ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400
- Subedar: ₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400
- Subedar Major: ₹47,600 – ₹1,51,100
- Lieutenant: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500
- Captain: ₹61,300 – ₹1,93,900
- Major: ₹69,400 – ₹2,07,200
Special Forces Allowance for Para SF
On top of the basic salary, Para SF commandos receive a Special Forces Allowance, which significantly boosts their monthly earnings. This is one of the most important components of the Para SF Commando Salary.
As of current updates:
Special Forces Allowance: ₹17,000 to ₹25,000 per month (depending on the rank)
So, for example, a soldier (Sepoy) in the Para SF unit with a basic pay of ₹21,700 and an allowance of ₹25,000 may take home around ₹46,700 before other allowances are added.
Additional Perks and Allowances
Para SF commandos are entitled to numerous other allowances and benefits which significantly increase their total compensation package:
- Field Area Allowance
- Varies from ₹6,000 to ₹16,900 depending on the area of posting.
- Varies from ₹6,000 to ₹16,900 depending on the area of posting.
- High Altitude Allowance
- ₹3,400 to ₹25,000 depending on altitude.
- ₹3,400 to ₹25,000 depending on altitude.
- Kit Maintenance Allowance
- ₹400 per month.
- ₹400 per month.
- Military Service Pay (MSP)
- ₹15,500 for officers, ₹5,200 for JCOs/OR.
- ₹15,500 for officers, ₹5,200 for JCOs/OR.
- Ration and Travel Concessions
- Free or subsidized rations, leave travel concessions (LTC), and annual leave benefits.
- Free or subsidized rations, leave travel concessions (LTC), and annual leave benefits.
- Uniform Allowance
- ₹20,000 per year.
- ₹20,000 per year.
- Insurance & Pension
- Life insurance coverage under Army Group Insurance Fund (AGIF) and post-retirement pension benefits.
- Life insurance coverage under Army Group Insurance Fund (AGIF) and post-retirement pension benefits.
All these allowances are over and above the Para SF Commando Salary, making the overall package attractive for those serving in this elite force.
Risk and Responsibility: Why Para SF Commandos Earn More
Being a Para SF Commando is not just a job — it’s a calling. These warriors operate in extremely high-risk environments and are often deployed in active combat zones. Their tasks range from cross-border surgical strikes, anti-terror operations, reconnaissance, and more. This level of responsibility and danger justifies the higher salary and multiple allowances associated with the Para SF Commando Salary.
Career Growth and Promotions in Para SF
Just like any other regiment of the Indian Army, Para SF commandos also have a well-defined career progression. Promotions are based on experience, training, and examinations. As a soldier climbs up the ranks, both the salary and allowances increase accordingly. Officers from NDA, IMA or OTA who join the Parachute Regiment also get promoted based on time-scale and merit.
Why Para SF is a Dream for Defence Aspirants
For aspirants aiming to join the elite Para SF, understanding the salary and lifestyle can be motivating. The pride of wearing the maroon beret, operating with the best weapons and equipment, and defending the nation from behind enemy lines is unmatched.
At Indian Defence Institute – the Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun – we not only train students to crack the NDA written exam and SSB interview but also guide them towards specialized roles like Para SF. With a team of ex-defence personnel, personalized mentorship, physical training sessions, and mock interviews, we help mould the next generation of Indian warriors.
The Para SF Commando Salary, along with its various allowances and benefits, is a true reflection of the bravery, sacrifice, and professionalism of India’s most elite warriors. But beyond the monetary rewards lies the honour of serving the country in the most challenging conditions. If you dream of becoming a part of the Indian Army and wearing the maroon beret, start your journey with the best foundation.
We at Indian Defence Institute are proud to shape the future of India’s armed forces. Whether your goal is to join the NDA, IMA, or become a Para SF Commando, our expert faculty and result-oriented approach can help you turn your dream into reality. Enrol today and march towards your mission with confidence.
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