Kerala Pay Scales — how the scale of pay works
Every regular post in Kerala government service is attached to a scale of pay — a fixed ladder of basic pay that starts at a minimum, rises by defined annual increments and stops at a maximum. The tables above list these scales for the 10th PRC (2014) and 11th PRC (2019) revisions, numbered S1 through S27, so you can find the exact minimum, increment stages and ceiling for any grade.
The master scale
All of Kerala’s grade scales are derived from one master scale — a single unbroken running scale from the lowest basic pay in the State to the highest. Each post is given a continuous slice of this master scale. Because every grade is cut from the same ladder, the increment rate at any rupee value is identical no matter which grade you are in; only the start and end points differ. The 11th PRC master scale begins at ₹23,000 and runs up to ₹1,66,800.
How to read a scale of pay
A scale such as 23000-700-27900-800-31100-900-38300… is read in groups of three:
- Starting basic pay — the first figure (₹23,000) is your pay on entry to that grade.
- Increment amount — the next figure (₹700) is added each year on your increment date.
- Stage — the third figure (₹27,900) is the point up to which that increment rate applies.
After each stage the pattern repeats with a new (usually higher) increment amount, until the final figure, which is the maximum of the scale. You move up one stage every year through an annual increment, until you reach the ceiling.
10th PRC vs 11th PRC
The 11th PRC, effective 01.07.2019, is the latest revision that has been implemented; its scales are what current employees draw. The 10th PRC, effective 01.07.2014, is retained here for reference — useful when checking arrears, verifying past fixation, or comparing how a grade was revised. When the 12th PRC is notified, its scales will be published on this page as well.
How to use this reference
- Select the Pay Revision Commission (2019 / 2014) from the table above.
- Find your scale number (for example S6) — your appointment or pay-fixation order states it.
- Read across for the minimum, the full increment pattern and the maximum of your grade.
- For your exact stage after promotion or revision, use the Pay Fixation tool; for the revised figures under the 12th PRC, use the PRC Pay Revision calculator.
Scales here are reproduced from the official Pay Revision Commission orders for general reference. Your actual entitlement is governed by the order applicable to your post and date — always verify against the official G.O. before acting on a figure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the master scale in the Kerala pay structure?
The master scale is the single continuous running scale from which every individual grade scale (S1 to S27) is carved out. It runs from the lowest basic pay to the highest in the State, with fixed increment rates at each stage. Each post is assigned a slice of this master scale, so all grades share the same increment steps wherever they overlap.
How do I read a scale of pay like 23000-700-27900-800-31100…?
It lists the starting basic pay, then the annual increment amount, then the stage up to which that increment applies — repeated until the maximum. For 23000-700-27900, you start at ₹23,000 and rise by ₹700 each year until ₹27,900; from there the next increment rate (₹800) takes over up to the next stage, and so on until the ceiling of that grade.
What is the difference between grade pay and scale of pay in Kerala?
Kerala does not use the Central "grade pay + pay band" system. Each Kerala post is mapped directly to a numbered scale of pay (for example S6 in the 11th PRC). The scale itself defines the minimum, the increment stages and the maximum — there is no separate grade pay component added on top.
Which pay scales are current for Kerala government employees?
The 11th PRC scales effective 01.07.2019 are the latest implemented revision. The 10th PRC (effective 01.07.2014) scales are shown for reference and for arrear or fixation comparisons. When the 12th PRC is notified, its scales will be added here.
How is my pay fixed when I move from one scale to the next?
On promotion or revision your existing basic pay is fixed at the equal or next-higher stage of the new scale, usually after a notional increment. Use the Pay Fixation tool for the exact stage; the scale tables on this page give the stages your fixed pay must land on.
Does the scale of pay include DA, HRA and allowances?
No. The scale of pay shows only the basic pay range. Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, City Compensatory Allowance and other allowances are calculated on top of the basic pay drawn within the scale, at the rates in force on each date.