For every Sarkari job aspirant, understanding salary structure is just as important as clearing the exam. Terms like Pay Matrix, Pay Scale, and Grade Pay often confuse candidates. In this post, we simplify these terms and explain how the Pay Matrix works in the 2025 government job system.
What Is the Pay Matrix?
The Pay Matrix is a single, transparent table introduced by the 7th Central Pay Commission. It replaced the old Pay Band + Grade Pay system. It shows salary progression across levels (rank/position) and steps (experience).
- Level refers to the rank of your job (e.g. Level 1 for MTS, Level 7 for Inspectors, Level 10+ for Group A).
- Step is the number of increments or years of service.
How to Read the Pay Matrix Table?
Here’s how you can interpret your pay:
- Find your Pay Level based on your job post.
- Look at the Step (usually starts from Step 1 when you join).
- The value at the intersection = Basic Pay.
Example:
If you are in Level 6, Step 3, your basic pay is ₹37,000/month.
Pay Matrix Table (Simplified)
Levels 1 to 6 (For Entry-Level to Junior Officer)
| Step \ Level | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 18,000 | 19,900 | 21,700 | 25,500 | 29,200 | 35,400 |
| Step 5 | 18,800 | 20,700 | 22,900 | 27,500 | 33,000 | 39,000 |
| Step 10 | 19,800 | 21,700 | 24,400 | 30,000 | 38,000 | 44,000 |
Levels 7 to 12 (For Senior Officers to Group B)
| Step \ Level | Level 7 | Level 8 | Level 9 | Level 10 | Level 11 | Level 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 44,900 | 47,600 | 53,100 | 56,100 | 67,700 | 78,800 |
| Step 5 | 49,000 | 51,700 | 57,600 | 62,000 | 73,700 | 87,200 |
| Step 10 | 54,000 | 56,700 | 62,600 | 70,000 | 82,600 | 98,200 |
Levels 13 to 18 (For Group A Officers, Secretaries, etc.)
| Step \ Level | Level 13 | Level 14 | Level 15 | Level 16 | Level 17 | Level 18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | 88,200 | 100,000 | 112,400 | 125,300 | 139,600 | 144,200 |
| Step 5 | 97,200 | 109,900 | 122,600 | 135,800 | 150,900 | 155,500 |
| Step 10 | 108,900 | 122,400 | 135,600 | 148,800 | 165,600 | 170,200 |
—
What Is Grade Pay?
Before the 7th Pay Commission, the salary included a Grade Pay component added to the Pay Band. Grade Pay decided the status and seniority of the post.
| Grade Pay (Old) | Equivalent Level (New) |
|---|---|
| ₹1,800 | Level 1 |
| ₹2,400 | Level 4 |
| ₹4,200 | Level 6 |
| ₹4,600 / ₹4,800 | Level 7 / 8 |
| ₹5,400 | Level 10 |
Now, Grade Pay is merged into the Pay Matrix.
What Is Pay Scale?
Pay Scale is a range that shows the minimum to maximum salary a government employee can get in a particular level. For example:
- Level 6 Pay Scale: ₹35,400 – ₹1,12,400
- Level 10 Pay Scale: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500
This depends on promotions and years of service (increments).
Why Is It Important for Sarkari Aspirants in 2025?
- Helps in comparing jobs across departments (e.g. SSC CGL vs UPSC jobs).
- Plays a major role in job preference during counseling.
- Useful for long-term planning (promotion, pension, etc.).
- Assists in understanding DA, HRA, and gross salary calculations.
Let’s Discuss!
Which Pay Level are you aiming for in your dream Sarkari job?
Do you think the current Pay Matrix system is fair for all government employees in 2025?
Comment below and join the discussion with fellow aspirants!