What does CBN Sub Inspector stand for?
CBN Sub Inspector is a Sub Inspector in the Central Bureau of Narcotics, a Central Government Organisation which is a central agency under the department of revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India. It is in full Central Bureau of Narcotics Sub Inspector.
The post primarily handles:
- Anti-Narcotics Enforcement: This involves carrying out raids and operations against illegal drug cultivation, trafficking, and distribution throughout India.
- Intelligence Collection: The role not only involves executing raids but also monitoring, surveillance, and information collection on drug networks and smugglers.
- Field work: The role involves working in the field in sensitive areas of India particularly areas where opium may be legally grown under a government regulated process as per the NDPS Act.
- Inspect, dispose, and seize: The role entails inspecting establishments, conveyances, or goods and determining whether there is a contravention of the NDPS Act then determining if the legality of the establishment, conveyance, or goods.
- Administrative work: This role includes reporting, record keeping and assisting senior officers in matters before courts of law.
This role is a vital component in India's law enforcement framework, specifically with regard to regulating and controlling narcotics in compliance with the NDPS Act as well as promoting public safety and national security. It is positioned as a prestigious appointment within Group 'B' non-gazetted services which is filled by CBN Sub Inspectors by way of the SSC CGL Examination.
CBN Sub Inspector Recruitment & Eligibility
Any applicant desired to become a CBN Sub Inspector (Central Bureau of Narcotics) must clear the SSC CGL Exam. The position exists in Group B (Non-Gazetted) of the Ministry of Finance.
- Eligibility Required: Applicant must be an Indian Citizen or must possess a Bachelor's Degree from a recognized university.
- Age Limit: Minimum age is 18 years and the maximum age is 30 years (age relaxations shall apply according to SSC categories).
Selection and Recruitment Process:
1st Tier - Computer Based Examination (also known as Online Examination)
2nd Tier - Computer Based Examination
3rd Tier - Descriptive Paper; which includes Essay writing/ letter; as well as comprehension etc.
4th Tier - Document Verification; and physical test component
Physical Standards for Candidate Profiles as defined:
- Male Profile- Height-157.5 cm; Chest-81 cm.
- Female Profile- Height-152 cm; Weight-48 kg.
CBN Sub Inspector Salary Structure 2025
The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) Sub Inspector position available through SSC CGL has a lucrative salary structure as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC).
Salary Structure Summary
- Pay Level: Level 7 (7th CPC)
- Basic Pay: ₹44,900 per month
- Pay Scale: ₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400
- Grade Pay: ₹4,600
- Overall CTC: ₹7 - ₹9 lakh approx. (including allowances)
CBN Sub Inspector In-Hand Salary 2025
In-hand salary for the CBN Sub Inspector post will vary based upon city classification (X, Y, Z) therefore total monthly salary varies as well. In-hand salary includes different allowances and deductions.
Net Monthly In-Hand Salary
- X City (Metro): ₹78,000 – ₹80,000
- Y City (Tier 2): ₹70,000 – ₹75,000
- Z City (Rural): ₹54,000 – ₹68,000
Deductions
- NPS (National Pension Scheme): ₹4,500 – ₹5,000
- Income Tax: As per slab
- Provident Fund (PF): ₹2,000 – ₹3,000
Allowances and Benefits of CBN Sub Inspectors (2025)
CBN Sub Inspectors also enjoy numerous allowances and benefits which make the role quite interesting and rewarding both financially and socially.
- Dearness Allowance (DA): It is 42% - 50% of the Basic Pay. It is revised from time to time based on the cost inflation;
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): It varies between 9% - 27% of Basic Pay based on city -Classification-- X, Y, and Z cities.
- Transport Allowance (TA): ₹ 1800 to ₹ 3600 per month, plus DA on TA depending on location of posting.
- Special Investigation Allowance: Compensation for the field-work and high-risk duties;
- Medical Facilities: Free or subsidised medical services for the officer and family dependents at CGHS and empanelled hospitals;
- Uniform Allowance (if applicable): For officers carrying out operations where uniforms are required;
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC): Travels re- imbursement during official leaves, as per central government rules, and provisions;
- Pension and Retirement benefits: National Pension System (NPS), gratuity and other post-retirement benefits.
CBN Sub Inspector Salary Slip Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the CBI Sub Inspector salary slip, including all allowances and deductions.
Component | Amount (Approx.) |
Basic Pay | ₹44,900 |
Dearness Allowance (50%) | ₹22,450 |
House Rent Allowance | ₹4,491 – ₹12,123 |
Transport Allowance | ₹1,800 – ₹3,600 |
Special Investigation Allowance | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 |
Gross Salary | ₹75,000 – ₹85,000 |
Deductions | |
NPS Contribution | ₹4,500 – ₹5,000 |
Income Tax + Cess | As per tax slab |
Professional Tax/PF | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 |
Net In-Hand Salary | ₹65,000 – ₹78,000 |
CBN Sub Inspector vs Other Central Government Inspector-Level Posts
This table compares the salary, duties, and benefits of CBI Sub Inspector with other inspector-level posts in the central government.
Post | Pay Level | Basic Pay (₹) | In-Hand Salary (₹) |
CBN Sub Inspector | Level 7 | ₹44,900 | ₹54,000 – ₹80,000 |
CBI Sub Inspector | Level 7 | ₹44,900 | ₹54,000 – ₹80,000 |
NIA Sub Inspector | Level 6 | ₹35,400 | ₹50,000 – ₹65,000 |
Income Tax Inspector | Level 7 | ₹44,900 | ₹55,000 – ₹75,000 |
Conclusion
The CBN Sub Inspector position provides the highest salary grade, strong job/stability security, and an opportunity for meaningful work in drug enforcement. However, challenging field challenges, temporal movement, and movement issues may impact the experience.
It is a great position for those who want to serve the public and be relevant using the authority of Government, and it is appropriate for candidates looking for adventure, satisfactory authority, and public service through SSC CGL recruitment.