Enhanced remuneration and hardship allowances under consideration; formal orders likely after financial clearance
Srinagar, October 9 : In a significant development for thousands of Special Police Officers (SPOs) serving in Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has reportedly approved a proposal to enhance their monthly remuneration, with the final clearance from the Union Finance Ministry still awaited.
The proposed revision is expected to benefit around 32,000 SPOs deployed across the Union Territory, many of whom perform demanding duties under challenging conditions, including counter-terrorism operations, security assignments and the maintenance of law and order.
Officials said the proposal was pursued following recommendations from the Jammu and Kashmir administration and the Police Department, which highlighted the need to improve the financial welfare of SPOs in view of their responsibilities, field duties and exposure to security-related risks.
Existing Monthly Remuneration Ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹18,000
At present, SPOs receive monthly remuneration ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹18,000, depending on their length of service.
The proposed enhancement is aimed at providing financial relief to personnel who are deployed in remote, mountainous and security-sensitive areas, where difficult working conditions add to the demands of their service.
Sources indicated that the MHA has cleared the proposal and forwarded it to the Finance Ministry for the necessary financial approval. A revision in monthly remuneration, along with possible hardship-related allowances, is being considered as part of a broader effort to strengthen the welfare framework for SPOs.
However, the revised pay structure, the proposed increase and the eligibility criteria for additional allowances have not yet been officially notified.
Long-Standing Demand for Better Pay and Service Benefits
Improved remuneration and better service-related benefits have remained significant demands among SPOs, considering the nature of their duties and the risks associated with security deployments.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration and Police Department have reportedly pursued the matter with the Union Home Ministry, highlighting the need to improve the financial position of these personnel.
Apart from the proposed salary revision, SPO welfare measures also include provisions concerning reservation in regular police recruitment and other service-related benefits, subject to applicable rules, eligibility conditions and government policies.
The final decision is expected to clarify the extent of the proposed relief and the arrangements for implementing the revised remuneration structure.
Amit Shah’s Proposed Jammu Visit Draws Attention to Possible Announcement
The development comes ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s proposed visit to Jammu. During the visit, he is scheduled to inaugurate the high-security Mahanpur jail in Billawar tehsil of Kathua district.
The timing has drawn attention to the possibility of an announcement regarding the proposed enhancement in SPO remuneration. However, no official confirmation was available regarding whether the salary revision would be announced during the visit.
Any announcement or implementation decision will depend on the completion of the required approval process and the issuance of formal government orders.
J&K Police Receives ₹9,925.50 Crore Allocation for 2026–27
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Police has been allocated ₹9,925.50 crore for the financial year 2026–27, compared with ₹9,097 crore under the revised estimates for 2025–26.
The allocation reflects the substantial financial requirements associated with policing, security operations and the functioning of the force across Jammu and Kashmir.
The proposed remuneration enhancement is now being closely watched by SPOs and their families, who are awaiting a final decision on improved monthly earnings and additional allowances.
Final Decision Awaited
While the MHA’s reported clearance marks an important step in the process, the proposed salary hike is not yet final. The revised remuneration, new pay slabs and any additional allowances will become clear only after the Finance Ministry grants the requisite approval and the competent authority issues a formal order.(KNC)
