| Role / Grade | CTC | Monthly In-Hand (New Regime, Metro) |
|---|---|---|
| Scientist/Engineer SC (entry level) | Rs. 14.00 LPA | Rs. 1,04,975 |
| Scientist/Engineer SD | Rs. 17.00 LPA | Rs. 1,24,967 |
| Basic Salary | Rs. 46,667/mo |
| HRA + Allowances | Rs. 70,000/mo |
| Gross Monthly Salary | Rs. 1,16,667/mo |
| NPS Contribution (10% of Basic) | -Rs. 4,667/mo |
| Professional Tax | -Rs. 200/mo |
| Income Tax (TDS) | -Rs. 6,825/mo |
| Monthly In-Hand (Take-Home) | Rs. 1,04,975/mo |
About ISRO
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is India's national space agency and one of the most prestigious employers in the country. Scientists and engineers at ISRO work on satellite development, launch vehicle design, space applications, and cutting-edge research. Recruitment is through the ISRO Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam. ISRO is considered a career destination for engineers who want to work on technologically challenging problems with national importance.
How ISRO Salary is Structured
ISRO Scientist SC basic pay is Rs. 56,100 per month (Pay Level 10). DA is approximately 50% of basic revised twice a year, adding Rs. 28,050/mo. HRA is Rs. 5,049 to Rs. 10,098 per month or free ISRO campus quarters. Special allowance of Rs. 3,000 and transport allowance of Rs. 7,200 per month.
What Deductions Will You See?
Deductions include NPS at Rs. 5,610/month (10% of basic), professional tax of Rs. 200/month, and income tax of Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 9,000 per month. Total deductions are approximately Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 17,000 per month.
ISRO vs Other PSUs
| PSU / Role | CTC | Monthly In-Hand |
|---|---|---|
| ISRO Scientist SC | Rs. 14.0 LPA | Rs. 78,000/mo |
| DRDO Scientist B | Rs. 14.0 LPA | Rs. 76,000/mo |
| BARC Scientific Officer C | Rs. 14.0 LPA | Rs. 75,000/mo |
| ONGC GET | Rs. 17.5 LPA | Rs. 90,000/mo |
Increments and Career Progression
Promotions from SC to SD to SE follow a time-bound and merit-based system. SC to SD typically takes 4-5 years. Project completion bonuses are awarded for major milestones like satellite launches. Scientists with exceptional contributions can be fast-tracked.
Is ISRO Salary Good Compared to Private Sector?
At Rs. 14,00,000 CTC, a ISRO Scientist/Engineer SC (entry level) takes home Rs. 1,04,975/mo per month in a metro city. This does not capture the full picture -- free or subsidized accommodation, NPS employer contribution, medical coverage for family, and job security add significant value on top of the cash salary. See the Rs. 15 LPA in-hand salary breakdown for a private sector comparison at the same CTC level.
Salary at Each Grade
| Grade / Post | Typical Timeline | Basic Pay | Approx. In-Hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scientist SC (entry) | 0-5 years | Rs. 56,100/mo | Rs. 78,000/mo |
| Scientist SD | 5-10 years | Rs. 67,700/mo | Rs. 92,000/mo |
| Scientist SE | 10-16 years | Rs. 78,800/mo | Rs. 1,06,000/mo |
| Scientist SF (Group Head) | 16-22 years | Rs. 1,18,500/mo | Rs. 1,55,000/mo |
Dearness Allowance (DA) Explained
ISRO follows central government DA rates, revised twice a year. Currently at approximately 50% of basic, adding Rs. 28,050 per month to gross salary.
City-Wise Salary Breakdown
| Posting Location | HRA / Accommodation | Gross Monthly | In-Hand Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru (ISRO HQ, VSSC, URSC) | ISRO quarters or HRA Rs. 10,098/mo | Rs. 97,000 | Rs. 79,000 |
| Thiruvananthapuram (VSSC, LPSC) | ISRO quarters or HRA Rs. 8,000/mo | Rs. 95,000 | Rs. 77,000 |
| Sriharikota (SDSC-SHAR) | ISRO campus accommodation | Rs. 96,000 | Rs. 78,000 |
Perks and Benefits: What They Are Worth in Cash
| Perk | Details | Estimated Cash Value |
|---|---|---|
| ISRO Campus Accommodation | Well-maintained residential quarters at all ISRO centres with facilities for families | Rs. 15,000-30,000/mo in rent equivalent |
| Project Launch Bonus | Special bonus awarded when major missions like satellite or launch vehicle projects succeed | Rs. 20,000-1,00,000 per milestone |
| Medical Coverage | CGHS and ISRO dispensary coverage for self and family | Rs. 6,000-12,000/mo equivalent |
| Research and Training Budget | Support for conferences, international visits, and higher education | Rs. 50,000-2,00,000 per year |