SDM Salary in India 2025
The SDM salary in India offer an annually income range between INR 9 LPA and INR 25 LPA plus household, educational, and other benefits. The salary structure is establishes by the 7th Pay Commission for SDMs and different states and work years affect payment rates.
Thousands of candidates look up SDM salary information as they prepare for UPSC Civil Service and State Public Service Commission (PSC) exams. The position of Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) is a coveted Group ‘A’ gazetted officer post in India, privileges that combine attractive salary package with limitless prestige and responsibility. This article examines structure of the SDM salary, including pay scales, allowances, and benefits plus shows payment variations by state.
SDM Salary Overview
The starting SDM salary per month is Rs. 56,100, with a grade pay of Rs. 5,400 in pay band 3 (Rs. 15,600–Rs. 39,100). Salary structures for SDM-equivalent positions in the State Administrative Services, such as Deputy Collector, receive a similar salary structure. According to the 7th Central Pay Commission, the SDM salary in India is classified as pay level 10, starting salary of Rs. 56,100 and a maximum salary of Rs. 1,32,000, excluding different perks such as DA, HRA, and TA. In addition to these benefits, the in-hand SDM salary per month varies from Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 80,000, depending on the city of posting and other factors.
SDM Salary: Central vs. State PSC Recruits
Aspirants should note that the SDM salary in Delhi and through the UPSC IAS exam tends to be higher than that offered through State PSCs. While the base salary is similar, the benefits, allowances, and perks are often more generous bonuses for UPSC-recruited officers.
What is SDM Salary?
SDM salary refers to the remuneration of a Group A junior or moderate-level post in the government. The annual range is between INR 9 LPA and INR 25 LPA. The starting salary for SDMs normally at between INR 75,000 and INR 85,000 per month, with promotions and experience allowing for an increase to INR 2.5 LPA. The SDM post is part of the UPSC Civil Services Examination, and appointments are based on ranks secured by aspirants.
Experience level, posting location, and hierarchy are important Key factors affecting the SDM salary. An expertly structured overview of SDM salary in India is shown below.
SDM Salary Structure (2025)
| Particulars | SDM Salary 2024 |
|---|---|
| Pay Band | INR 15,600-39,100 (PB-3) |
| Grade Pay | INR 5,400 |
| 7th CPC Pay Level | 10 |
| Minimum Basic Pay | INR 56,100 |
| Maximum Basic Pay | INR 1,32,000 |
| HRA (city-wise) | Class X: INR 7,884 (24%)Class Y: INR 5,256 (16%)Class Z: INR 2,628 (8%) |
| Transport Allowance (TA) | Class X: INR 7,600Class Y: INR 6,400Class Z: INR 5,200 |
| Gross Salary (upon joining) | INR 75,000 – INR 85,000 (approx) |
State-Wise SDM Salary in India 2025
SDM Salary in Delhi (Near Shalimar Bagh)
The 7th Pay Commission, plus allowances, governs the SDM salary in Delhi, including the areas near Shalimar Bagh. The starting gross salary ranges from INR 80,000 to INR 90,000 per month, depending on location and allowances. The state-by-state details are as follows:
SDM Salary in MP
The SDM Salary in Madhya Pradesh ranges from INR 78,000 to INR 85,095, in accordance with the 10th Pay Commission.
| Particulars | SDM Salary in MP |
| Pay Level | 10 |
| Pay Band | PB-3 |
| Grade Pay | INR 5,400 |
| Basic Pay | INR 56,100 |
| DA (38% of Basic) | INR 21,318 |
| HRA | Class X: INR 14,760Class Y: INR 9,840Class Z: INR 4,920 |
| Gross Salary | INR 78,000 – INR 85,095 (approx) |
SDM Salary in Rajasthan
The 14th Pay Commission established the SDM pay scale in Rajasthan, which is between INR 61,000 and INR 66,095 per month.
| Particulars | SDM Salary in Rajasthan |
| Pay Level | 14 |
| Pay Band | PB-3 |
| Grade Pay | INR 5,400 |
| DA (28% of Basic) | INR 15,708 |
| HRA | Class X: INR 14,760Class Y: INR 9,840Class Z: INR 4,920 |
| Transport Allowance | INR 1,800 – INR 3,600 |
| Gross Salary | INR 61,000 – INR 66,095 |
UP SDM Salary
The UP SDM salary adheres to the 10th Pay Commission, with a gross salary ranging from INR 80,000 to INR 90,095.
| Particulars | SDM Salary in UP |
| Pay Band | PB-3 |
| Grade Pay | INR 5,400 |
| Basic Pay | INR 56,100 |
| DA (38% of Basic) | INR 21,318 |
| HRA | Class X: INR 14,760Class Y: INR 9,840Class Z: INR 4,920 |
| Transport Allowance | INR 3,600 – INR 7,200 |
| Gross Salary | INR 80,000 – INR 90,095 |
SDM Salary in Bihar
The SDM salary in Bihar is governed by the 9th Pay Commission with starting gross pay between INR 60,000 and INR 75,095.
| Particulars | SDM Salary in Bihar |
| Pay Level | 9 |
| Pay Band | PB-3 |
| Grade Pay | INR 5,400 |
| Basic Pay | INR 61,500 |
| DA (17% of Basic) | INR 10,455 |
| HRA | Class X: INR 14,760Class Y: INR 9,840Class Z: INR 4,920 |
| Transport Allowance | INR 1,800 – INR 3,600 |
| Gross Salary | INR 60,000 – INR 75,095 |
Career Growth and Increment
SDMs enjoy periodic promotions and pay hikes based on experience and performance. Below is the career trajectory for SDM roles:
| Post | Experience (Years) | Pay Scale | Basic Pay |
| SDM (Entry-level) | 1-4 | INR 15,600 – INR 39,100 | INR 56,100 |
| Additional District Magistrate (ADM) | 5-8 | INR 15,600 – INR 39,100 | INR 67,700 |
| District Magistrate (DM) | 9-12 | INR 15,600 – INR 39,100 | INR 78,800 |
| Divisional Commissioner | 16-24 | INR 37,400 – INR 67,000 | INR 1,44,200 |
| Chief Secretary | 34+ | INR 90,000 (Fixed) | INR 2,25,000 |
SDM Salary in Punjab and Haryana
In states like Punjab and Haryana, the SDM salary per month is comparable to central pay scales, with gross earnings ranging between Rs. 65,000–Rs. 85,000 depending on the location and allowances.
SDM Salary in HP (Himachal Pradesh)
The SDM salary in HP starts at Rs. 56,100 with additional allowances for remote postings and challenging terrains.
SDM Salary in CG (Chhattisgarh)
In Chhattisgarh, the SDM salary per month aligns with the central government’s pay band but includes additional state-specific perks.
Components of SDM Salary
The SDM salary in India consists of the following components:
- Basic Pay: Starting at Rs. 56,100.
- Grade Pay: Rs. 5,400.
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Adjusted bi-annually based on inflation. For example, DA is 38% in Uttar Pradesh.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA):
- Class X (Metro cities): 24%
- Class Y (Tier 2 cities): 16%
- Class Z (Rural areas): 8%
- Transport Allowance (TA):
- X cities: Rs. 7,600
- Y cities: Rs. 6,400
- Z cities: Rs. 5,200
- Other Allowances: Medical allowance, electricity bills, phone bills, etc.
Perks and Benefits of SDM Salary
Apart from the attractive SDM salary per month, Sub-Divisional Magistrates enjoy a host of perks, including:
- Government Residence: Duplex bungalows in prime locations.
- Security: 3 house guards, 2 bodyguards, and STF commandos if required.
- Official Vehicles: One to three vehicles with drivers.
- Medical Facilities: Comprehensive health coverage and medical allowances.
- Study Leave: Paid leave of 2–4 years for higher education.
- Post-Retirement Benefits: Lifetime pension and benefits for dependents.
- Unofficial Perks: Complimentary event passes and subsidized travel accommodations.
SDM Career Growth and Increment
The SDM salary slip reflects regular increments based on career growth. Below is the hierarchy:
- SDM (Junior Scale): Rs. 56,100–Rs. 1,32,000
- ADM (Senior Time Scale): Rs. 67,700–Rs. 1,51,000
- DM (Junior Administrative Scale): Rs. 78,800–Rs. 1,91,000
- Divisional Commissioner: Rs. 1,44,200–Rs. 2,18,000
- Chief Secretary: Rs. 2,25,000 (fixed)
- Cabinet Secretary: Rs. 2,50,000 (fixed)
FAQs on SDM Salary in India 2025
What is the SDM salary in Bihar?
The SDM salary in Bihar ranges from Rs. 61,500–Rs. 75,000, including allowances.
What is the SDM salary in UP?
The UP SDM salary starts at Rs. 56,100 and can go up to Rs. 90,000 with allowances.
What is the SDM salary in Rajasthan?
The SDM salary in Rajasthan starts at Rs. 56,100, with gross earnings up to Rs. 66,000.
What is the SDM salary per month for IAS?
The IAS SDM salary per month starts at Rs. 56,100 and can go up to Rs. 2,50,000 for higher posts.
What is the SDM salary in MP?
The SDM salary in MP ranges from Rs. 78,000 to Rs. 85,000.
By understanding the SDM salary, including its allowances, perks, and career growth, aspirants can gain valuable insights into this prestigious role. Whether focusing on SDM salary near Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, or exploring state-specific salaries like UP SDM salary, this guide provides an expert overview for aspirants preparing for the civil services examination.
