Introduction: Why IB ACIO Salary Matters
If you’re dreaming of a government career in national security, the IB ACIO (Assistant Central Intelligence Officer) Grade‑II/Executive post is one of the most sought-after opportunities. Apart from the prestige associated with intelligence work, the salary and benefits make it extremely attractive. Here’s why this breakdown matters:
- Stable central government pay under the 7th Pay Commission.
- Multiple allowances and perks that significantly boost take-home pay.
- Clear promotion path, rewarding performance and experience.
- High job satisfaction due to the role’s critical importance to national security.
We’ve crafted this in‑depth guide to help aspirants, career advisors, and content creators understand every aspect of the IB ACIO salary structure—so you stand out in your content or application preparation.
Overview of IB ACIO Grade‑II/Executive Salary
Pay Level and Basic Pay under 7th CPC
Selected candidates for IB ACIO Grade‑II/Executive are placed in Level 7 of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) structure. As per official norms:
- Basic Pay Range: ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400 per month
- Grade Pay Equivalent: ₹4,600 (embedded within Level 7 pay matrix)
This base pay is the starting point for calculating various allowances and contributes to long-term benefits such as pensions and promotions.
Total Vacancies & Recruitment Context
The IB ACIO Recruitment 2025 opened opportunities for 3,717 Grade‑II/Executive posts across the country
It included graduates aged 18–27 years (relaxation applicable for reserved category). The selection stages include Tier‑I (objective test), Tier‑II (descriptive), and an interview round.
Detailed Salary Structure of IB ACIO
Basic Pay, Grade Pay & Pay Scale
| Component | Amount / Range |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale (Level 7) | ₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400 per month |
| Grade Pay Equivalent | ₹4,600 (incorporated into pay level) |
| Starting Basic Pay | ₹44,900 per month (entry‑level) |
This foundational salary is fully revised per CPC norms and evolves with annual increments and promotions.
Allowances: DA, HRA, SSA, TA
In addition to the basic pay, IB ACIO officers receive multiple allowances:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Typically 46%–53% of basic pay, adjusting frequently with inflation; estimated at ₹20,650 (46%) currently
- Special Security Allowance (SSA): ₹8,980 (20% of basic) in cash to compensate for field-related risks
- House Rent Allowance (HRA):
- X‑Class cities:
27% (₹12,120) - Y‑Class:
18% (₹8,800) - Z‑Class:
9% (₹4,040) - Transport Allowance (TA):
- X‑Class: ₹3,600
- Y/Z cities: ₹1,800
Government Contributions & Deductions
Your Gross Salary includes contributions made by the government towards NPS (National Pension System) (~14% of basic pay, ~₹6,286), plus employer allowances for EPF etc. Deductions include:
- Employee PF / NPS contributions
- CGHS medical insurance premiums
- Other statutory deductions
Net or in-hand salary after deductions is approximately:
- X cities: ₹90,000 total, ∼₹80–₹85k in-hand
- Y cities: ~₹84,416 gross
- Z cities: ~₹80,375 gross
City-wise In-Hand Salary Comparison
X, Y & Z Category City Breakup
Cities are classified for allowances:
- X‑Class: Metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore.
- Y‑Class: Mid-tier cities.
- Z‑Class: Smaller towns/rural locations.
Allowance rates (HRA & TA) differ accordingly.
Sample Calculation Table
| City‑Category | Basic Pay ₹44,900 | DA (46%) ₹20,650 | SSA (20%) ₹8,980 | HRA | TA | Govt. NPS (14%) ₹6,286 | Gross Total | Estimated Deductions | In‑Hand Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | ₹44,900 | ₹20,650 | ₹8,980 | ₹12,120 (27%) | ₹3,600 | ₹6,286 | ₹96,536 | ₹10,000 | ~₹86,500 |
| Y | ₹44,900 | ₹20,650 | ₹8,980 | ₹8,800 (18%) | ₹1,800 | ₹6,286 | ₹91,416 | ₹10,000 | ~₹81,400 |
| Z | ₹44,900 | ₹20,650 | ₹8,980 | ₹4,040 (9%) | ₹1,800 | ₹6,286 | ₹86,656 | ₹10,000 | ~₹76,600 |
This illustrates earning potential based on location difference. Actual figures may vary slightly per updated DA or city classification rules.
Perks & Additional Benefits Beyond Salary
Medical, LTC, Education Allowance, Govt Quarters
Apart from pay and allowances, IB ACIO officers are eligible for:
- CGHS medical facilities for self and dependents, often cashless at govt hospitals.
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC): Every 2–4 years for self and family.
- Children Education Allowance and reimbursements.
- Government accommodation or HRA exemption if quarters are allotted.
Holiday Compensation & Other Facilities
The job may require holiday duties or deputations; compensation includes:
- Holiday Duty Cash Compensation: Payment for up to ₹30 days work in lieu of off days
- Annual increments, festival bonuses, and performance-based recognitions.
- Security-related perks, given the sensitive nature of duties.
Job Profile & Roles of an IB ACIO
Core Responsibilities & Work Environment
Being an Assistant Central Intelligence Officer (ACIO) is not your typical 9 to 5 government job. It’s a field-intensive, investigative role that blends office work with intelligence gathering and national security operations. Think of it as being the brain behind securing India from internal threats—quietly, efficiently, and with utmost integrity.
Key Roles Include:
- Gathering and analyzing intelligence from multiple sources
- Conducting field surveillance on targets
- Handling classified and sensitive reports
- Assisting in counter-intelligence operations
- Coordinating with state police and paramilitary agencies
The working hours aren’t fixed—you’re on call 24×7, especially during national emergencies or security threats. Although physically and mentally demanding, it’s incredibly prestigious and impactful.
Officers may be posted anywhere in India, and field postings are often challenging but rewarding, especially for those seeking real-world intelligence exposure. The pressure is high, but so are the stakes—you’re literally helping protect the sovereignty of India.
Probation & Training Period
Upon selection, an IB ACIO undergoes a probation period of 2 years. This can be extended based on performance and conduct. During this time:
- You’ll be posted to different intelligence bureaus to understand ground-level operations.
- A formal induction training is held at the Intelligence Bureau training center, covering:
- Surveillance techniques
- Report writing and dossier creation
- Cyber intelligence
- Counter-terrorism methodology
- Legal frameworks (Unlawful Activities Act, National Security Act, etc.)
This training is designed to transform fresh recruits into field-ready officers equipped with the tools to handle national security duties confidentially and competently.
Career Growth & Promotion Trajectory
Hierarchy: ACIO-II → ACIO-I → DCIO → AD & Beyond
The IB has a well-defined promotion path, and performance plus seniority both matter. Here’s the typical progression route:
| Designation | Pay Level (CPC) | Years of Service (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| ACIO Grade-II (Entry level) | Level 7 | 0–5 Years |
| ACIO Grade-I | Level 8 | 5–8 Years |
| Deputy Central Intelligence Officer (DCIO) | Level 10 | 8–12 Years |
| Assistant Director (AD) | Level 11–12 | 12–18 Years |
| Joint Deputy Director (JDD) | Level 13 | 18–22 Years |
| Deputy Director (DD) | Level 13A | 22+ Years |
Timely promotions are given based on:
- Performance appraisals
- Departmental exams
- Experience
- Vacancies
Fast-track promotions are possible for outstanding officers, especially those handling successful major operations or contributing significantly during crises.
Timeline & Salary Jumps per Level
Each promotion brings significant salary and status upgrades. For instance:
- ACIO-II to ACIO-I: Basic pay can rise to ₹53,100 with increased SSA and DA.
- DCIO and above: Officers often cross the ₹1 lakh+ in-hand salary mark monthly.
- Assistant Director (AD): Gains access to better official vehicles, personal staff, and executive level accommodations.
Promotion also changes your operational role—higher positions involve more planning, liaison, and strategic command roles rather than ground-level surveillance.
IB ACIO vs Other Government Jobs (Comparison Table)
A big question for aspirants is: “How does the IB ACIO job stack up against other top government positions?” Let’s compare it with SSC CGL (IB), CAPF (AC), and Delhi Police SI:
| Feature | IB ACIO | SSC CGL (Examiner, Income Tax, etc.) | CAPF (Assistant Commandant) | Delhi Police SI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pay Level | Level 7 | Level 7–8 | Level 10 | Level 6 |
| In-Hand Salary | ₹80,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹65,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹85,000 – ₹1,00,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 |
| Job Nature | Intelligence & Surveillance | Clerical/Administrative | Field combat & command | Law enforcement |
| Transfers | Frequent | Less frequent | Highly frequent | Periodic |
| Risk Factor | High | Low | Very High | Moderate |
| Perks & Benefits | Very High | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Promotion Speed | Moderate | Slow to Moderate | Fast | Slow to Moderate |
| Prestige | Very High | High | Very High | Moderate |
Verdict: If you’re passionate about security, intelligence, and national interest—IB ACIO offers unmatched purpose and respect, especially compared to desk jobs.
FAQs About IB ACIO Salary & Benefits
What is the starting salary of an IB ACIO Grade-II Officer in 2025?
The starting in-hand salary of an IB ACIO is around ₹80,000 to ₹90,000, depending on the city of posting, thanks to various allowances such as DA, SSA, HRA, and TA.
Does IB ACIO provide accommodation or government housing?
Yes, depending on the location, ACIOs can avail government quarters. If not allotted, officers receive House Rent Allowance (HRA) based on city classification.
Are IB ACIO officers eligible for pension benefits?
Yes. Officers are enrolled in the National Pension Scheme (NPS), where both the government and employee contribute monthly, ensuring a pension corpus at retirement.
What are the promotion prospects in IB?
Promotions are regular. A candidate joining as ACIO-II can rise to Joint Deputy Director or higher, depending on performance and years of service.
Conclusion
The IB ACIO Grade-II/Executive position offers a powerful combination of national service, job stability, and rewarding compensation. While it’s not the easiest path and involves hard fieldwork, the perks—from high in-hand salary to rapid promotions and elite government benefits—make it a dream role for thousands of aspirants.
From a starting salary of nearly ₹90,000/month to structured career growth, from thrilling intelligence duties to top-tier allowances, this job proves itself not just on paper but in honor, respect, and opportunity. Whether you’re a civil services aspirant, a defense enthusiast, or someone exploring elite government jobs—IB ACIO deserves your attention.
