The Armed Forces Headquarters (AFHQ) is renowned for recognizing the highest level of command and control under the Indian Armed Forces. Typically, the Indian Armed Forces contain the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force.  This Group B service holds its dominance in ensuring the operational efficiency of the Indian Armed Forces.

In this article, let’s look into the crucial aspects required to join the Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service (AFHQ CS).

Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Service

 An Overview

Armed Forces Headquarters Civilian Staff – it is a group B service and the staff are selected through the UPSC Civil Service Examination. This is considered a highly esteemed administrative service and it falls under the armed forces of a country.

Typically, the AFHQ CS officers are entrusted with vital roles and responsibilities aimed at the smooth functioning and coordination of diverse defense-related tasks.

Civilian officers in management positions will be deployed for the integrated defence services that cover the army, navy, and air force. These positions are located at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters and also in various inter-service groups within the Ministry of Defence.

AFHQ Exam Eligibility

Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for AFHQ Exam as prescribed by the UPSC.

Recruitment and Training of the Officers

Apart from choosing the candidates via the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), the unfilled vacancies in the Direct Recruitment (DR) quota are filled through the promotion quota.

The recruitment for the AFHQ is done through ways:

1. 50% of the candidates are inducted into the post after they have qualified in the UPSC CSE examination
2. The Assistant (Group B, Non-Gazetted) Ministerial officers will be promoted after certain years of service. This is done for the other 50%.

• Candidates should appear for and clear the UPSC CSE rounds including Prelims, Mains, and Interview.
• The chosen candidates have to undergo a foundation course, which will be conducted at the Defence Headquarters Training Institute.
• This training is intended to equip the candidates with the skills and competencies to perform their roles.
• The induction training ensures that the candidates are given the knowledge of the functions, structure, and organizational culture of the armed forces.
• Delivers a comprehensive knowledge of the responsibilities of their position
• Technical training for grooming job-specific skills
• On-the-job training for practical exposure

Roles and Responsibilities 

• Supporting higher authorities in tasks related to administration and operation, thus ensuring flawless operation of the armed forces
• Study, evaluate, and research the existing policies of the headquarters units, and have to coordinate with the teams at the headquarters
• Administer work management, coordination, and distribution
• Responsible for submitting periodic reports & returns by collating data.
• Take active participation in the administration and management of the Integrated Headquarters of the Defence Ministry
• Ensure efficient and timely disposal of work. The officers should be vigilant in following the instructions related to preserving documents and maintaining records.
• Should support policy formulation and implementation by providing necessary inputs
• Active contributions in conferences, meetings, and that represent the AFHQ CS and have their role in discussions on important matters.
• Liaison with external agencies and stakeholders and build effective partnerships and positive relationships.
• Manage communication, reports, and data management for precise records management and facilitate effective communication.
• Coordinate with other departments within the armed forces for streamlined operations.

Grades and Pay Scale

AFHQ CS In-Hand Pay

The AFHQ CS salary package for AFHQ CS Section Officers will be based on the 7th Pay Commission recommendations.

Typically, the Pay Scale for the Section Officer’s Grade will start at Rs. 44,900. With cumulative experience and seniority, the salary of the AFHQ CS section officers will increase and can reach a maximum of Rs. 1,42,400.

Career Growth Profile

Perks and Privileges

• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• Transport Allowance
• Medical Facilities
• Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
• Pension and Retirement Benefits

Career Prospects

• Can get promotion to higher grades within the AFHQ CS. This includes Group ‘A’ positions, Under Secretary and Deputy Secretary.
• Can get qualified in the departmental examinations and acquire higher positions such as Assistant Director and Director.
• Can access opportunities for inter-departmental transfers
• May get a chance to cater to other government organizations on deputation

Make your full efforts with perseverance and grasp your exclusive opportunity for an exciting and rewarding career within the armed forces.