The Enforcement Directorate (ED), India’s premier financial crime investigation agency, has been at the forefront of high-profile probes involving money laundering and foreign exchange violations. As the agency garners attention for its pivotal role in upholding economic integrity, questions arise about the compensation, benefits, and career trajectory of its officers.
Assistant Enforcement Officer (AEO) in ED: A Gazetted Officer
The Assistant Enforcement Officer (AEO) position in the ED is a Group ‘B’ Gazetted post. This designation signifies a certain level of authority and responsibility within the government hierarchy. AEOs are recruited through the Staff Selection Commission Combined Graduate Level (SSC CGL) examination. Their primary responsibilities include assisting in investigations related to economic crimes, conducting searches and seizures, and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies.
Uniform and Dress Code
Unlike uniformed services such as the police or military, ED officers, including AEOs, do not have a prescribed uniform.They typically dress in formal civilian attire during official duties. However, during operations like raids or searches, officers may wear jackets or vests that identify them as ED personnel to distinguish themselves and maintain authority during such proceedings.
Salary Structure: Monthly Earnings of an AEO
The salary of an AEO in the ED is structured as per the 7th Central Pay Commission. The pay scale falls under Level 7, with a basic pay ranging from ₹44,900 to ₹1,42,400. In addition to the basic pay, officers receive various allowances:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): Approximately 53% of the basic pay.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): Ranging from 10% to 30% based on the city of posting.
- Transport Allowance (TA): A fixed amount provided to all employees.
- Special Incentive Allowance: 20% of the basic pay.
Considering these components, the gross monthly salary of an AEO typically ranges between ₹60,000 to ₹80,000, depending on the posting location and applicable allowances.
ED Officer Salary Structure (2025)
| Rank | Pay Level | Basic Pay (₹) | Approx. Gross Monthly Salary (₹) |
| Enforcement Officer | Level 7 | 44,900 | 75,000 – 80,000 |
| Assistant Director | Level 10 | 56,100 | 90,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Deputy Director | Level 11 | 67,700 | 1,10,000 – 1,20,000 |
| Joint Director | Level 13 | 1,23,100 | 1,80,000 – 2,00,000 |
| Additional Director | Level 14 | 1,44,200 | 2,10,000 – 2,30,000 |
| Special Director | Level 15 | 1,82,200 | 2,60,000 – 2,80,000 |
| Director of Enforcement | Apex Scale | 2,25,000 (Fixed) | 2,50,000 – 2,70,000 |
Note: The gross monthly salary includes Basic Pay, Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Transport Allowance (TA), and other applicable allowances. Actual in-hand salary may vary based on deductions such as Provident Fund (PF), National Pension System (NPS), and taxes.
Qualifications Required for AEO Position
To be eligible for the AEO post in the ED through the SSC CGL examination, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution.
- Age Limit: Between 18 to 30 years, with age relaxations applicable for reserved categories as per government norms.Â
Candidates must also clear the multi-tiered SSC CGL examination, which assesses general intelligence, quantitative aptitude, English comprehension, and general awareness.
Career Progression and Promotions
The ED offers a structured career progression path for its officers. The typical hierarchy is as follows:
- Assistant Enforcement Officer (AEO)
- Enforcement Officer
- Assistant Director
- Deputy Director
- Joint Director
- Additional Director
- Special Director
- Director
Promotions are typically based on a combination of factors, including years of service, performance evaluations, and availability of vacancies. An AEO can expect the first promotion within 3 to 5 years of service, subject to meeting the requisite criteria.
Conclusion
A career as an Assistant Enforcement Officer in the Enforcement Directorate offers a blend of investigative challenges, respectable remuneration, and opportunities for advancement. While the role demands diligence and integrity, it also provides the satisfaction of contributing to the nation’s economic security and legal enforcement.
Read More: Common Adjudication Authorities Appointed by CBIC for De-Novo Hearings in 100% EOU Cases
