Chief of Army Staff (COAS) – Salary in India The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is the highest-ranking officer in the Indian Army. As of the latest pay structure (7th Pay Commission), the COAS’s basic pay is fixed at ₹2,50,000 per month (Pay Level 18) — the highest pay level for military officers in India.This basic salary does not include various allowances and benefits, such as Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), transport allowance, field/flying allowances, and more, which increase the total earnings. With allowances, the in-hand salary and total compensation typically exceed the basic ₹2,50,000 figure each month.