Working in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) is considered one of the most prestigious jobs in the Indian government. Officers posted here are not only responsible for routine administrative work but also play an important role in national policy implementation, coordination between ministries, and assisting the Prime Minister in decision-making processes. One such senior-level post is that of the Under Secretary.
People often wonder—how much salary does such a senior officer earn while working directly under PM Narendra Modi? The answer might surprise many, especially those from the private sector.
What Is an Under Secretary in the PMO?
The Under Secretary in the PMO is not a normal clerk or junior officer. This is a Group A civil service officer, selected through the UPSC Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest exams in the country. After a few years of service and promotions in ministries or departments, the officer may be appointed to the PMO.
The Under Secretary is usually from Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Revenue Service (IRS), or other top central services, and brings with them rich administrative experience.
PMO Under Secretary Salary: Know the Monthly Package
The Under Secretary post falls under Pay Matrix Level 11 as per the 7th Pay Commission. Here’s the salary breakdown:
- Basic Pay: Rs.67,700 – Rs.2,08,700 per month
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Currently 50% of basic (as of 2025)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Depends on posting city; Delhi gets 27% of basic
- Travel Allowance (TA): Fixed monthly allowance for local travel
- Special Duty Allowance: Given if posted in special zones or with higher responsibilities
Example:
If an Under Secretary is posted in Delhi, the total monthly salary can go up to Rs.1.2 lakh – Rs.1.6 lakh, depending on years of service and allowances.
This makes the total annual salary Rs.14 – Rs.19 lakh, which is less than top corporate salaries but comes with high job security, reputation, and decision-making power.
Major Responsibilities of an Under Secretary in PMO
This role is not just about moving files or noting approvals. The Under Secretary in the PMO handles:
- Inter-ministerial Coordination: Connecting different departments and ministries
- Policy Reviews: Analyzing the impact of government schemes
- Report Preparation: Drafting notes for parliamentary questions and policy briefs
- Advisory Role: Assisting senior officers and giving inputs on national issues
- Data Collection: Ensuring the PM receives all needed information on time
These officers are expected to maintain confidentiality, accuracy, and quick decision-making ability, as they work closely with the Prime Minister’s inner circle.
How to Become an Under Secretary in the PMO?
The journey to become an Under Secretary begins with cracking the UPSC Civil Services Examination. After clearing the exam, candidates are assigned to various services like IAS, IRS, IFS, etc., based on rank and preference.
Then:
- Postings in Ministries: Officers serve in different ministries or departments.
- Promotion: After 6-8 years of service, eligible officers may be promoted to Under Secretary level.
- Selection to PMO: Based on performance, experience, and clean service record, an officer may be posted to PMO.
This is a highly competitive process, and only a few get the opportunity to work in the PMO directly under the Prime Minister.
Perks Beyond Salary
Along with the salary, the PMO Under Secretary gets several government benefits:
- Government accommodation in Lutyens’ Delhi or Type IV/V housing
- Official transport or vehicle allowance
- Medical facilities under CGHS
- Paid leaves and study leaves
- Lifetime pension (after completing service)
These benefits make it a stable and respected career in the public sector.
