The Special Protection Group (SPG) is India’s most elite and specialised security force, created under the Special Protection Group Act of 1988. SPG commandos represent the highest echelons of Indian security forces and are solely responsible for safeguarding the Prime Minister of India and former Prime Ministers with their close family members. The SPG commando salary is a critical aspect for any aspirant who wishes to join this esteemed organisation.
SPG salute in Summer 2012, Governor Chief Minister (Code: new Netherlands). For the protection of people in high-risk areas and fighting against terrorism, the SPG is directly under the control of the Cabinet Secretariat – Government of India. Their mandate is limited but vital to provide infallible, 24/7 protection to the country’s top office-holder. All SPG commandos are subjected to strict selection and rigorous training at the SPG, apart from evaluation before any operational task to adhere highest standards of operations.
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SPG Commando Salary Per Month 2024-25
The salary of an SPG commando per month is one of the highest salaries in all the central security forces of India. The structure includes various components (basic pay and allowances take the most significant share) and special duty pay under a compelling framework to draw highly qualified individuals as an organisation of central government departments of the 7th Pay Commission.
The gross monthly salary of a new constable-level SPG commando is in the range of approximately ₹70,000-₹90,000, while senior officers to supervisory ranks can earn above ₹2,00,000 a month. Here is a complete analysis of the SPG commando salary:
| Salary Component | Amount (INR) | Remarks |
| Basic Pay | ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 | As per 7th Pay Commission |
| Grade Pay / Level | Pay Level 6-10 | Based on rank |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | ₹5,400 – ₹27,000 | City-based (X/Y/Z) |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | 50%+ of Basic Pay | Revised quarterly |
| Special Duty Allowance | As per the 7th Pay Commission | For SPG-specific duties |
| Transport Allowance | ₹1,800 – ₹7,200 | Based on posting city |
| Total In-Hand Salary | ₹70,000 – ₹2,00,000+ | Approx. per month |
SPG commando salary: The figures above are approximate and may vary based on posting location, rank, years of service, and applicable Central Government rules at the time of disbursement.
Key Allowances That Boost SPG Commando Salary
The SPG commandos are also entitled to various special allowances on top of the basic pay, which increases their take-home salary. These include:
- Special Security Allowance: Only for SPG personnel, owing to their sensitive roles.
- Risk & Hardship Allowance: For serving in high-threat environments.
- Night Duty Allowance: For shifts that are 24 hours or overnight
- Travel Allowance reimbursement for official travel in the course of VIP protection operations.
- Uniform & Kit Allowance: Paid every year to ensure you look the part.
SPG Commando Salary Per Day
SPG commando salary per day is another widely searched term by aspirants that gives them an overview of earning potential on a daily basis. The daily wages are gross salary divided by 30 days. Here is the approximate daily salary ranked from different ranks:
| Rank | SPG Commando Salary Monthly (INR) | Salary Per Day (INR) |
| Sub-Inspector / Constable | ₹70,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹2,333 – ₹3,000 |
| Inspector / SI | ₹90,000 – ₹1,20,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 |
| Deputy Superintendent | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹4,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Superintendent of Police | ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,00,000+ | ₹5,000 – ₹6,666+ |
The salary for entry-level constables in the SPG commando salary role translates to roughly ₹2,333 to ₹3,000 per day, whereas senior officers are netting a daily equivalent of ₹5,000 and above. This x07ve the SPG among the better drop paying central security identities in the state.
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SPG Commando Salary Slip: What Does It Look Like?

Salary for SPG Commando is prepared as per the Central Government salary slip format, either in PFMS or the respective payroll systems. It encompasses not just earnings but also deductions, offering a clear insight into the net take-home salary. Structure of a salary slip for an SPG commando at the Inspector level (mid-level)
| Earnings Head | Deductions Head |
| Basic Pay: ₹56,100 | GPF / NPS Contribution: ₹5,610 |
| Dearness Allowance: ₹28,050 | CGHS / Medical Insurance: ₹500 |
| House Rent Allowance: ₹13,464 | Income Tax (TDS): As applicable |
| Transport Allowance: ₹3,600 | CGEGIS: ₹120 |
| Special Duty Allowance: ₹10,000 | Recovery (if any): Variable |
| Gross Pay: ~₹1,11,214 | Total Deductions: ~₹10,000-₹15,000 |
| Net Take-Home: ~₹96,000 – ₹1,00,000 | (Varies by posting & rank) |
SPG Commando Salary Slip is issued on a monthly basis and can be availed through the Government’s Employee Portal. It also includes deductions for contributions towards the National Pension System (NPS), Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and income tax as applicable. This is a considerably high net take-home when compared to other central forces of the same rank.
SPG Commando Full Form and Organisational Structure
As stated, SPG’s full form is Special Protection Group. The force was raised in 1984 after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, following recommendations of the Birbal Nath Committee. It was officially founded in 1985 after getting legislative recognition through the SPG Act of 1988.
Organisationally, the SPG is an armed force while being headed by a Director (an IPS officer not below the rank of DGP), who will have various intelligence and security wings in his charge, like Close Protection Team (CPT) comprised primarily of commandos trained for extremely close protection, lately as also Advance Security Liaison (ASL) team within their own perimeter. The force comprises personnel from the CRPF, IPS officers and direct recruits selected through competitive processes.
SPG Commando Qualification: Eligibility Criteria
So, how does one get into SPG? Qualification standards for SPG commandos are among the hardest in the country. The candidates must clear physical, educational and psychological benchmarks before they are even eligible to be selected. This is a full table of all eligibility requirements:
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | Indian Citizen only |
| Education | Minimum 10+2 (Intermediate); Graduate preferred for officer ranks |
| SPG Commando Age Limit | 18 to 25 years (General); relaxation for SC/ST/OBC as per Govt. norms |
| SPG Commando Height | Male: 165 cm minimum; Female: 155 cm minimum |
| Weight | Proportional to height as per medical norms |
| Chest (Male) | Minimum 78 cm (unexpanded), 83 cm (expanded) |
| Vision | 6/6 or correctable to 6/6; no colour blindness |
| Experience | Prior service in CRPF/NSG/Army/Police preferred |
Educational Qualification in Detail

The minimum educational qualification for SPG commando is Class 12 (10+2) pass from a recognised board for constable-level recruitment into SPG (normally by direct and through deputation from CRPF). A UCG-recognised university is required for officer cadre posts. Candidates with educational qualifications in physical education, defence studies and law enforcement have a selection advantage as well.
SPG Commando Height Requirements
No compromise is made on physical fitness in SPG, for which SPG commando height serves as one of the major screening parameters. Candidates who do not meet the specified height disqualification criteria are eliminated at the very first stage of selection, irrespective of other qualifications.
- For Male Candidates: Required height is 165 cm (5 feet 5 inches).
- Candidates for Female: The least stature of 155 cm (5 feet 1 inch) is needed.
- Hill-Region Relaxation: NE state, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand (J&K or other hilly areas) candidates can avail a relaxation of 5 cm in height.
In addition to SPG commando height, chest measurement (for male candidates) and weight in proportion to height, as well as vision standards and overall physical fitness are judged. It’s a disqualifying condition for that person.
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SPG Commando Age Limit
Another eligibility criteria are the SPG commando age limit. Direct Recruitment or Deputation. Age band for direct recruitment or deputation.
- In the General Category: 18 to 25 years of age as on the date of application.
- OBC Category: Maximum 28 years of age (3-year relaxation in comparison with the General category).
- SC/ST Category: 30 years (5 years relaxation in the upper age limit for the General category).
- Ex-Servicemen: as per the terms of the Central Government.
For the officers who join SPG on deputation (meaning an IPS cadre officer joining from their own parent cadre), the age limit criteria can be different. These officers generally come on a fixed-term deputation (2-5 years) and then return to their parent organisation.
It is, however, to be noted that the age limit for SPG commando deputation from forces such as CRPF can go higher, usually 35 or 40 years, as it will mostly have already trained individuals belonging to the central forces.
SPG Commando Training: The Making of an Elite Protector

The SPG commandos’ training is arguably the most arduous and toughest amongst all the security forces of India. Those elected are immediately enrolled on a graduated training program which molds them into remarkably competent protection operatives. The training consists of physical conditioning, combat skills, intelligence awareness and VIP protection protocols.
| Phase | Duration | Focus Areas |
| Phase 1 – Basic Training | 6 Months | Physical fitness, drills, weapons handling |
| Phase 2 – Combat Training | 3-4 Months | Close-quarter battle, counter-terrorism tactics |
| Phase 3 – Specialised Training | 3 Months | VIP protection protocols, intelligence briefings |
| Phase 4 – Field Exercises | Ongoing | Mock drills, convoy protection, rapid response |
| Language & Communication | 1-2 Months | English, advanced communications, first aid |
Physical Training Standards
The candidates have to be trained in SPG commando training, where they have to maintain a high fitness level. Physical training regime entails long-distance running (5 km in under 25 mins), obstacle courses, swimming, yoga and martial arts. SPG commandos undergo rigorous training in the Israeli martial art of Krav Maga, Judo, and highly specialised hand-to-hand combat, which helps them to neutralise potential threats quickly and effectively.
Weapons and Tactical Training
Commandos of the Special Protection Group (SPG) are trained to handle a diverse range of weapons. They are trained on and certified to use the following during their training as SPG commandos:
- Automatic rifles (INSAS, AK-47, M4 Carbine)
- Need for sniper rifles to secure the perimeter
- Sidearms and pistols (Glock, Berettas)
- Non-lethal weapons and restraint devices
- IED Render Safe and Explosive Detection
Intelligence and Surveillance Training
The intelligence aspect of SPG commando training is one of the most unique aspects. SPG staff are trained to do threat assessments, analyse duties of intelligence inputs from agencies such as RAW and IB, identifying suspicious activities among crowds and coordinating with state police and local intelligence units during PM visits.
Additional Benefits Beyond SPG Commando Salary
SPG commandos salary has a compensation package that goes well beyond a monthly salary. Here is the place where the Government of India offers a strong set of incentives and benefits that secure these elite officers to their Luck:
- Government Accommodation: SPG personnel get the accommodation of the government at their place of posting, subsidised or free.
- Medical Benefits: Commando and his immediate family are entitled to free medical treatment under CGHS.
- Pension: After retirement, a pension under the National Pension System (NPS) for recruits in 2004 or after
- LTC (Leave Travel Concession): Subsidy in travel for the commando and family during leaves.
- Children’s Education Allowance: This option provides reimbursement of school fees for up to two children.
- CGEGIS: Group insurance providing substantial life coverage
- Gallantry Awards: Eligible for the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry and other national awards.
How to Join SPG: Recruitment Process
Unlike CRPF or BSF, SPG only holds direct open recruitment. SPG commandoes are inducted mainly on deputation from the existing central paramilitary forces and the Indian Police Service. This is how the process generally goes:
Step 1: Enter into CRPF/BSF/CISF or any other CAPF via their respective exams (such as SSC GD, UPSC CAPFs, etc.)
Step 2: After getting promoted to your respective level in other departments, apply for SPG deputation after 2-5 years of service (as and when vacancies arise) on the demonstration of excellent services.
3rd Step: Complete the selection process of SPG comprising physical tests, medical examination, background check and psychological test.
Step 4: Undergo the required SPG commando training and be certified.
Step 5: Become an operational member in your respective unit(s) as an SPG commando.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): SPG Commando Salary
Q1. SPG commando full form explained.
SPG’s full form is Special Protection Group. It is the only security force of its kind, which is solely responsible for providing proximate protection to the Prime Minister of India and former Prime Ministers and their close relatives.
Q2. Basic Salary of SPG Commando in 2024 | SPG Commando Salary Per Month
SPG Commando Salary Monthly (per month in India): The salary of Special Protection Group commandos ranges from ₹70,000 to over ₹2 lacs+ per month based on rank, years of service & posting location. Entry-level commandos (constable rank) make about ₹70,000-₹90,000 gross, and senior officers may take home over ₹2 lakh a month.
Q3. How much is the salary of a SPG commando in a day?
SPG Commando Salary per day = Monthly Gross 30. This translates to around ₹2,333-₹3,000 per day for the lowest level of commandos. Senior officers get SPG commando salary per day of ₹5,000+
Q4. Do you need to be an SPG commando qualified to apply?
S. No SPG commando qualification criteria4-10+2 pass (graduation for officer level post)4-22 years of age (28 years relaxation in case of reserved post upto 30% and maximum to 32% can be relaxed on individual basis) Meet the SPG commando height requirement (165 cm for men,156 cm for women)Good health men and womenPhysical and mental fitness Experience in any CAPF or police force is highly desirable.
Q5. What is the height requirement for the SPG commando?
The minimum height details for SPG commando is Minimum 165 cm (5 ft 5 inches) for men and 155 cm (5 ft 1 inch) for women. As per applicable government norms, candidates from hill regions may be given a relaxation of up to 5 cm in height for the SPG commando.
Q6. What is the SPG commando Age limit?
Age Limit for the SPG Commando – The age limit for general category candidates of the SPG commando is between 18 and 25 years. 3 years relaxation for OBC candidates (28 years) and 5 years (30 years) for SC/ST candidates. The age limit for SPG commandos can be extended up to 35-40 years in case of deputation from existing CAPFs.
Q7. How long does SPG commando training last?
Training of SPG commandos is categorised into different phases, ranging from 12 to 18 months: basic training (6 months), combat and tactical training (3 to 4 months), tactics for VIP protection specialist course (3 months), as well as periodic drills. The training (conducted in specialised facilities) is one of India’s toughest.
Q8. How is the Salary Slip of SPG Commando?
SPG Commando Salary Slip Income Includes Basic Pay, Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance, and Special Duty Allowance. Deductions are made for NPS contribution, CGHS premium, CGEGIS and income tax (TDS). Mid-ranks earn a gross salary of between ₹96,000 and ₹1,10,000 (as per SPG Commando Salary Slip) in the net in-hand salary.
Q9. Salary SPG or NSG: Which is better?
Since SPG and NSG (National Security Guard) are very high specialized central forces, both offer decent packages. SPG commandos, however, are likely to get higher special allowances considering the peculiar nature of their duties, providing round-the-clock personal security cover to the Prime Minister. Both forces are normally governed by the 7th Pay Commission pay scales, making the overall compensation similar.
Q10. Thirdly, civilians can not directly apply for SPG commandos.
No civilians can apply to be an SPG commando. The usual route is through deputation of other central armed police forces (CAPFs) like the CRPF or by inducting IPS officers. Those aspiring for the SPG are recommended to first get into organisations like the CRPF via the SSC GD or UPSC CAPF exams, and then be deployed in the SPG after serving for a few years.
Conclusion About SPG Commando Salary
The salary of an SPG commando is one of the most attractive in India’s security sector, given the trail-weighty designation that comes along with the job of this elite force. SPG commando provides financial security as well as national pride with a very competitive basic pay, allowances, and perks. In addition to this, they offer an impressive set of benefits and a prestigious career profile.
SPG Commando Salary per Month, SPG Commando Qualification, SPG Commando Height Criteria, SPG Commando Age Limit & Intense Training Program. Those who want to enter this elite force focus on building a strong foundation in any CAPF, maintain peak physical fitness and aim to meet all the SPG commando qualifications. A career with the special protection group is not just a job but also a calling to serve and protect the highest office of the nation.
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