IAS Officer Salary Per Month in 2025: My Real First Salary

Hey friends,

I’m still trying to believe it—I am an IAS officer now! It’s been a rollercoaster ride of emotions, hard work, pressure, and dreams. The moment I saw my name in the UPSC Civil Services final result, I froze. I stared at my roll number again and again. Yes, that was me. I had done it.

But among all the unforgettable moments, one thing stood out recently: my first salary as an IAS officer got credited into my account. That notification hit different. After years of studying with a tight budget, living on Maggi, skipping trips, saying no to parties—I finally felt the reward of all those sacrifices.

IAS Officer Salary Per Month

Let me walk you through the real IAS officer salary, how it felt to see that amount in my account, and what life is like now, just a few weeks into service.

Life After Selection – Still Feels Like a Dream

After I cleared the UPSC exam, I was allotted my cadre. It felt surreal to know that I’ll be posted in my home state, closer to my family. I joined the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie, and that was a different world altogether—officer trainees from all over India, each with a story like mine, full of struggle and hope.

During the training, we received a stipend. But the real salary began when I joined my first post as SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate).

My First Salary as an IAS Officer – The Real Numbers

So here’s what everyone wants to know – How much is the monthly salary of an IAS officer?

Here’s what I saw on my salary slip:

Yes, that’s the basic breakdown. I won’t lie—I had seen this figure before online, but seeing it on my name, on my payslip, was a moment of pride.

But of course, deductions exist (like any job):

In-hand Salary: ₹71,200 approx.

It felt satisfying. It wasn’t crores, it wasn’t flashy—but it was earned with blood, sweat, and sleepless nights.

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What the Money Meant to Me

You know, it’s not just about the money. I’ve earned stipends before. I’ve worked part-time during college. But this salary was special. This came with the weight of responsibility, service, and respect.

I called my mom and told her the amount. She didn’t say much—just a silent pause, and then a proud “Shabash, beta.” That felt richer than the salary itself.

The first thing I did? I donated a small part of it to a local girls’ school. Just a tiny gesture, but it meant a lot to me.

More Than a Salary: The Perks of Being an IAS Officer

Many people ask, “Is the IAS salary enough?” Let me tell you—it’s not just about the salary. The lifestyle, facilities, and respect that come with the post are unmatched.

Here’s what I get as part of my job:

• Free Official Residence – A spacious government bungalow with furniture, a garden, and full security.
• Official Vehicle – A driver and government SUV at my disposal.
• Staff Support – Helpers, peons, and assistants assigned for official work.
• Free Utilities – Electricity and water bills are either waived or reimbursed.
• Medical Benefits – Free medical care for me and my family under CGHS.
• Lifetime Pension – Post-retirement benefits are secure.

So yes, even with a ₹70,000–80,000 salary, your monthly expenses are almost zero.

And This Is Just the Start – How Salary Grows

Right now, I’m in the initial Pay Level 10 with ₹56,100 as base pay. But promotions happen over the years:

So yes, your career grows, your pay grows, but so does your responsibility.

A Message to Aspiring IAS Officers

If you’re preparing for UPSC, here’s what I’ll say to you from the heart:

There will be days when you’ll feel broken. There will be times when you’ll want to quit. But if you just keep walking—step by step, one page a day, one hour at a time—you’ll get there.

And one day, you too will receive your first IAS salary. And trust me, it’ll feel like holding your dreams in your hands.

Final Thoughts

Getting paid as an IAS officer is not about the money. It’s about the meaning behind it. You are being paid to serve the nation, to help the poor, to bring change, and to protect justice. No corporate package in the world can match that feeling.

I still smile every time I check my bank account. Not because of the number—but because of the journey behind that number.

Thank you for reading my story.
Let me know in the comments what your dream job is. And if you’re aiming for UPSC—I’m rooting for you.