Election Results Out: MP Salaries and Perks in Focus
Summary: Following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP-led NDA secured 293 seats and the opposition INDIA bloc won 232 seats, new MPs are preparing to assume their roles. Their compensation includes a basic salary of ₹1,00,000 per month, plus various allowances and perks. These benefits include a ₹70,000 monthly constituency allowance, ₹60,000 for office expenses, and a daily allowance of ₹2,000 during parliamentary sessions. MPs also enjoy 34 free domestic flights annually, free first-class train travel, rent-free accommodation or a ₹2,00,000 housing allowance, free medical care, and a pension starting at ₹25,000 per month. Additionally, they receive up to 1,50,000 free telephone calls, free high-speed internet, 50,000 units of free electricity, and 4,000 kilolitres of free water annually. These provisions are designed to support MPs in fulfilling their legislative duties and serving their constituencies effectively.
As the dust settles on the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India witnesses the formation of its new Parliament. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) emerged victorious, securing 293 seats, while the opposition alliance, the INDIA bloc, put up a formidable fight, winning 232 seats. With new Members of Parliament (MPs) preparing to take their seats, the spotlight turns to the compensation and benefits they receive.
Salaries of MPs
The basic salary of an MP in India is ₹1,00,000 per month. This figure was established following a pay hike in 2018, aimed at adjusting for inflation and the increasing cost of living.
Allowances and Perks
In addition to their basic salary, MPs receive a variety of allowances and perks designed to support their duties and responsibilities:
- Constituency Allowance: MPs receive ₹70,000 per month to cover expenses related to maintaining offices and engaging with their constituents.
- Office Expenses: Each MP is allotted ₹60,000 per month for office expenses, which include costs for stationery, telecommunications, and staff salaries.
- Daily Allowance: During parliamentary sessions and committee meetings, MPs are entitled to a daily allowance of ₹2,000 to cover lodging, food, and other expenses in the capital.
- Travel Allowance: MPs are entitled to 34 free domestic air journeys per year for themselves and their immediate families. They also receive free first-class train travel for official and personal purposes and can claim mileage allowances for road travel within their constituencies.
- Housing and Accommodation: MPs are provided rent-free accommodations in prime areas during their five-year term. Depending on their seniority, they may receive bungalows, flats, or hostel rooms. Those who opt not to use the official accommodation can claim a housing allowance of ₹2,00,000 per month.
- Medical Facilities: MPs and their immediate families are entitled to free medical care under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), which includes treatment at government hospitals and select private hospitals.
- Pension: Former MPs receive a pension of ₹25,000 per month after serving one term in Parliament. For every additional year of service, they get an increment of ₹2,000 per month.
- Phone and Internet: MPs are allotted up to 1,50,000 free telephone calls annually and receive free high-speed internet connections at their residences and offices.
- Water and Electricity: MPs are provided with free electricity up to 50,000 units and free water up to 4,000 kilolitres annually.
As the new MPs settle into their roles, these benefits are essential in enabling them to effectively serve their constituencies and fulfill their legislative duties. The comprehensive package of salaries and perks reflects the significant responsibilities and demands placed on India’s lawmakers.
