7th CPC recommendation on Maritime Security and Safety Pay (MSSP)

Maritime Security and Safety Pay (MSSP)

The Indian Coast Guard has sought compensation by way of a Maritime Security and Safety Pay (MSSP) on the lines of the Military Service Pay (MSP) for the defence forces personnel. They have argued their case on the grounds that the nature of work in the Coast Guard and the responsibilities devolving upon them are over and above the normal working conditions of office/desk job.

Analysis and Recommendations

The demand has come up earlier too. It is noted that the ministry had suggested grant of 80 percent of MSP to Coast Guard Service to the Anomalies Committee set up post VI CPC.

The Commission has carefully considered this demand of the Coast Guard. A similar demand has also been made by some Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). The Commission has, however, taken a conscious decision that that Military Service Pay will be admissible to the three defence forces personnel alone.

In Chapter 6.1 it has brought out the unique elements that distinguish the three Defence services from others making them the sole category of personnel which would be eligible for Military Service Pay. In view of this the Commission does not agree with the proposal for the grant of Maritime Security and Safety Pay (MSSP) to personnel belonging to the Indian Coast Guard.