Government Jobs in India: Types, Salaries, and How to Get Hired

When people talk about government jobs, stable, publicly funded positions in India’s administrative, educational, and defense sectors. Also known as public sector jobs, these roles offer security, benefits, and respect that few private jobs can match. In India, a government job isn’t just a paycheck—it’s a life decision. Millions apply every year for positions in the UPSC, the Union Public Service Commission that recruits for top civil services like IAS, IPS, and IFS, while others target state-level exams or agencies like SSC, the Staff Selection Commission that hires for clerical, technical, and lower-level posts across ministries. These aren’t just jobs—they’re gateways to long-term financial stability and social standing.

What makes these roles so attractive? It’s not just the salary. A starting IAS officer earns over ₹56,000 per month with allowances, housing, medical care, and pension benefits that last a lifetime. Even lower-level posts like SSC CGL candidates get starting salaries around ₹25,000–₹35,000 with regular hikes and job security. Compare that to private sector roles where layoffs are common and benefits vary wildly. And unlike private companies, government jobs don’t ask you to work 70-hour weeks just to keep your job. The trade-off? The exams are tough. You need to prepare for years, often while juggling college or a part-time job. But if you pass, you’re set for life.

Many of the posts listed here focus on what comes after the exam—how to build a career once you’re hired, what skills actually matter on the job, and how to move up without a degree. For example, if you’re aiming for a teaching role in a government school, you’ll need a B.Ed, which we cover in detail elsewhere. If you’re thinking about technical roles in railways or defense, you’ll need to know which certifications matter. And if you’re wondering whether a government job is worth the grind, the data shows it still is—especially in smaller towns where private sector options are limited.

Below, you’ll find real stories and data from people who’ve cracked these exams, what they studied, how much they earned, and what surprised them most after getting hired. Whether you’re just starting out or already preparing for your next exam, this collection gives you the practical, no-fluff advice you won’t find in coaching brochures.