What is the NSG Commando Rank and Salary Structure

Salary Structure of NSG Commandos: Basic Pay and Perks

When it comes to India’s elite forces, the National Security Guard is the first that comes to mind. We see these black clad commandos who are the last line of defence in case of a terrorist attack, hijacking, or any high-risk mission. Who are these brave men, what are their ranks, and what do they get paid for putting their lives on the line? If you want to know the NSG salary and rank structure, you have come to the right place.

Who Are NSG Commandos?

The National Security Guard (NSG), which was established by the Indian Government in 1984, is a special forces unit mainly to tackle terrorism. They came into existence after the assassination of Indira Gandhi when the need for a dedicated anti-terror unit became clear.

NSG commandos are a special selection group that does not come out of the same pool as the Army or the Police. Instead, they are chosen from the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, which include CRPF, BSF and others. These men already have years of experience behind them, and after being selected, they go through extremely tough training in areas like:

• Counter-terrorism
• Hostage rescue
• Bomb disposal
• Close-quarter battle (CQB)
• High-speed combat shooting

Only a few make it through the training. That’s why they are often referred to as the “Black Cats”, deadly, fast, and fearless.

Why NSG Commandos Are Paid More

Now, let’s come to the main point: Salary

You might wonder, why are NSG commandos paid more than regular soldiers or policemen?

Here is why:

• Highly risky job: NSG commandos are deployed during critical terrorist threats. Each of their missions is a matter of life and death.
• Specialised training: Their training is rigorous, very demanding of both body and mind and is to transform them into the best of the best.
• Limited Number: NSG isn’t a large organisation like the Army. They have a few commandos, which are very precious.

To attract and retain such highly skilled personnel, the government offers a better salary package along with extra allowances.

NSG Commando Rank Structure

NSG does not have a separate rank system of its own. Commandos in NSG preserve the ranks that they had in their original parent organisations (Army, CRPF, BSF, etc). However, for understanding their roles within NSG, here is how the ranks are generally structured:

These ranks may fluctuate a little between when personnel joined from the Army or the Central Armed Police Forces, but the structure gives a good idea of the hierarchy inside the NSG.

NSG Commando Salary Structure (Rank-wise)

Let’s now look at the monthly basic pay for different ranks within the NSG:

• Assistant Commandant – Rs. 56,100 to Rs. 1,77,500
• Commandant – Rs. 1,23,100 to Rs. 2,15,900
• Deputy Inspector General – Rs. 1,31,100 to Rs. 2,16,600
• Inspector General – Rs. 1,44,200 to Rs. 2,18,200
• Major General – Rs. 2,05,400 to Rs. 2,24,400

Note: This is only the basic pay. The total in-hand salary is much higher once allowances are added.

Allowances and Perks: What Extra Do NSG Commandos Get?

NSG commandos not only get a decent salary but also a range of allowances to match the tough and demanding nature of their job.

Let’s break them down:

1. Dearness Allowance (DA)

• This is paid to help cover the rising costs of living due to inflation.
• Presently at 17% of base pay (but that may change with government updates).

2. House Rent Allowance (HRA)

If a commando isn't at government quarters, then they get HRA. HRA varies by city:

• Metro cities: 24% of basic pay
• Tier-2 cities: 16%
• Other locations: 8%

3. Transport Allowance

• NSG commandos are often on the move; that’s why this allowance covers what they spend on travel.
• Ranges between ₹7,200 to ₹15,750 per month, depending on the rank.

4. Medical Allowance

• Covers health expenses for the commando and their family.
• Around ₹1,000 per month, which also includes free health care at government and military hospitals.

5. Risk and Hardship Allowance

• This is one of the most important perks.
• Given for working in dangerous conditions.
• Set at 9,000 Rupees a month, which may go up in active operations.

6. Uniform Allowance

• NSG has a special black uniform.
• The allowance is for uniforms, boots, and accessories.
• Around ₹14,000 per year.

7. Leave Travel Concession (LTC)

• Provides financial support for travel during leave.
• It can be used to travel home or to any place in India.
• Around ₹20,000 per year.

Additional Benefits

Apart from money, NSG commandos also enjoy:

• Priority medical treatment
• Special protection for their families during operations.
• Subsidised schooling for children
• Post retirement jobs in private security, training or government fields.
• Gallantry awards and medals for bravery

Challenges That Come With the Job

Even with a good salary, the job of an NSG commando is not easy. Some of the biggest challenges they face include:

• Being away from family for a very long period.
• Very high-risk operations which do not tolerate error.
• Constant physical and mental pressure
• Posting in high-risk or high-stress zones without prior notice

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Joining the NSG is not for the money or the benefits. It is for people who have true courage, self-discipline and the will to risk it all to protect others. These men are trained for the world’s toughest situations, and their bravery is beyond what is measured in money. Yes, the government provides them a good salary, allowances and respect, but it is their bravery which stands out the most.

If you wish to enter the NSG at some point in time, begin to work on bettering your health and mindset. That is not to say it will be an easy road, but it is also one of the most honourable and proud in the defence field. You don’t just wear a uniform, you carry a nation’s trust.

Read more:

Meet Major Deeksha: The First Lady Officer to Earn the Balidaan Badge

Remembering Lt. Shashank Tiwari : A Tale of Courage and Sacrifice That Moved the Nation