As deliberations for government formation continue following the BJP-led NDA’s victory with 292 seats and the Opposition’s INDIA bloc securing 232 seats, here’s a look at the salaries, perks, and allowances of the key figures in India’s Parliament: the Prime Minister, President, Vice-President, and Members of Parliament (MPs).
President of India
The President, the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, is elected by the electoral college comprising members of both houses of Parliament and state assemblies. Residing in Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President holds the highest-paid government position in India.
- Salary: Rs 5 lakh per month (as per the President’s Emoluments and Pension Act of 1951).
- Perks and Allowances: Tax-exempt, free global travel by train and plane, free housing, medical care, and Rs 1 lakh annually for office expenses.
- Post-Retirement Benefits: Rs 1.5 lakh per month pension, a furnished rent-free bungalow, two free landlines, a mobile phone, five personal staff members, and free train or air travel for the President and a companion.
Vice-President of India
The Vice-President, who primarily presides over the Rajya Sabha and acts as the caretaker President when needed, holds the second-highest constitutional position in the country.
- Salary: Rs 4 lakh per month.
- Perks and Allowances: Free accommodation, medical care, train and air travel, a landline, mobile phone service, personal security, and staff.
- Post-Retirement Benefits: Rs 1.5 lakh per month pension and, if they have acted as President, access to all presidential facilities and benefits.
Prime Minister of India
Appointed by the President, the Prime Minister is the head of government, holding significant executive authority and responsibility.
- Salary: Rs 1.66 lakh per month, including a basic pay of Rs 50,000, an expense allowance of Rs 3,000, a parliamentary allowance of Rs 45,000, and a daily allowance of Rs 2,000.
- Perks and Allowances: Official residence, Special Protection Group (SPG) security, government vehicles and aircraft, and government-paid travel, stay, and food expenses for international trips.
- Post-Retirement Benefits: Free accommodation, electricity, water, and SPG security for five years.
Members of Parliament (MPs)
MPs represent their constituencies in the Lok Sabha. They are directly elected through general elections held every five years.
- Salary: Rs 1 lakh per month.
- Perks and Allowances: Basic pay of Rs 50,000 per month, a daily allowance of Rs 2,000 for attending Parliament sessions and committee meetings, and a travelling allowance of Rs 16 per km for road travel. MPs also receive a constituency allowance of Rs 45,000 per month and an office expense allowance of Rs 45,000 per month, which includes Rs 15,000 for stationery and postage.
These figures highlight the compensation and benefits provided to some of India’s most influential political positions, ensuring they are well-supported in their roles serving the nation.