2023 handbook summarySource checked 29 July 2026
Language Allowance for Army Officers
Language Allowance may apply when an officer actually performs translator, interpreter, or instructor duties using a foreign language, passes the...
Overview
Language Allowance may apply when an officer actually performs translator, interpreter, or instructor duties using a foreign language, passes the School of Language proficiency test each year, and meets the governing order's conditions. Language knowledge alone is insufficient. The 2023 category rates are historical and require verification before publication or use.
What the handbook says
The handbook requires a Part II order certificate confirming actual performance of qualifying foreign-language duties, annual passage of the School of Language proficiency test, and compliance with the conditions in the 3 February 1984 MoD letter (source: printed p. 150; PDF p. 161).
What this means
Eligibility is duty-based, not skill-based. The officer must both hold the required proficiency and actually use the language in one of the specified roles during the period for which payment is notified.
Who this applies to
- Qualifying duties are translator, interpreter, or instructor duties involving a foreign language (source: printed p. 150; PDF p. 161).
- The proficiency test is described as an annual requirement (source: printed p. 150; PDF p. 161).
- The cited source does not map individual languages or proficiency levels to Categories I, II, and III; do not infer a category without the governing order.
Rates and dates
From 1 July 2017:
- Category I: Rs.2,025 per month.
- Category II: Rs.1,689 per month.
- Category III: Rs.1,350 per month.
The source states that rates rise by 25 percent whenever DA rises by 50 percent (source: printed p. 150; PDF p. 161). No later amount is calculated here.
What you may need
- Part II order notifying the grant, with the prescribed certificate endorsed by an officer of the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or above.
- Certification of actual qualifying duties, annual proficiency, and compliance with the governing conditions (source: printed p. 150; PDF p. 161).
Authorities and source references
- MoD letter No. 1(16)/2017/D(Pay/Services), 18 September 2017, and amendment dated 14 September 2018.
- MoD letter No. 22(1)/83/D(GS-II), 3 February 1984.
Related guidance
About this guidance
This is a plain-language summary for general information. It is not an official order or an authority for a claim. Confirm the applicable order and your individual eligibility with the competent authority or PCDA(O) before acting.