We have heard about the Army and BSF and are always curious about the difference. The only difference between the Army and BSF is that the Indian Army is a part of the Ministry of Defense, while the Border Security Force is a part of the Central Armed Police Forces.
The Border Security Force (BSF) safeguards India’s border with Pakistan and Bangladesh. There are many other differences between the Army and BSF. Today, we will highlight all those difference in the article given below.
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What is an Indian Army?
The Indian Army is the largest agency and the land-based branch of the Indian Defense Forces. The major task of the Indian Army is to maintain the overall security and unity of the nation and protect the country from any external threats or attacks.
Here are some facts about Indian Army
- The Indian Army came into existence on 1 April 1895.
- The Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army is Droupadi Murmu.
- The fundamental duties of the Indian Army include ensuring national security and unity. It is also responsible for protecting the country from external aggression and internal threats and upholding tranquility and security within its borders.
- Indian Army also performs human rescue operations during disasters and other disruptions.
Salary of India Army
The Salary of the Indian Army ranges from INR 21,700 to INR 2, 50,000, with grade pay levels ranging from 3 to 18.
Posts in the Indian Army
Here is the post of the Indian Army in descending order-
| Ranks Insignia description |
| 1 Field Marshal |
| 2 General |
| 3 Lieutenant General |
| 4 Major General |
| 5 Brigadier |
| 6 Colonel |
| 7 Lieutenant Colonel |
| 8 Major |
| 9 Captain |
| 10 Lieutenant |
What is the BSF ?
BSF stands for Border Security Force and is a part of the Central Armed Police Forces. It is responsible for protecting the Line of Control with Pakistan on the west and India’s border with Bangladesh on the east.
Here are some facts about BSF-
- The BSF came into existence on 1 December 1965.
- Border Security Force is the second oldest force after the Central Reserve Police Unit (CAPF).
- BSF is responsible for protecting the Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh border. Hence, it is also referred to as India’s First Line of Defense.
- BSF is one of the seven wings of the CAPF.
- IPS officer is nominated as the Director-General of the BSF.
- The Indian Army is recognized as a Military Force, while BSF is an Armed Police Force.
- The headquarters of BSF is in Delhi.
Salary of BSF
- The basic pay of a BSF personnel is between Rs. 21,700/- to Rs. 69,100/-.
- The grade pay offered in BSF Tradesman recruitment is Rs. 2000/-.
- The Constables also receive allowances and other benefits such as Dearness allowances and housing allowances.
Posts in BSF
The BSF has several ranks that are categorized into three types:
- Gazetted Officers,
- Subordinate Officers, and
- Non-Gazetted Officers.
We will discuss them one by one.
Gazetted officers
The Gazetted officers are responsible for planning and execution of paramilitary operations. Here are the ranks of officers in descending order-
- Director General
- Special Director General
- Additional Director General
- Inspector General
- Deputy Inspector General
- Commandant
- Second–in–Command
- Deputy Commandant
- Deputy Commandant
Subordinate Officers Ranks in the BSF
Subordinate Officers (SOs) act as intermediaries between Gazetted Officers and Non-gazette Officers. Here are the ranks of the officers in descending order-
- Subedar Major
- Inspector
- Sub Inspector
- Assistant Sub Inspector
Non-gazette Ranks in the BSF
Non- gazette Officers are the backbone of BSF. Here are the ranks of the officers in descending order-
- Head Constable
- Constable
Difference between Indian Army and BSF
As discussed earlier, the difference between the Army and BSF is the type of organization, operational role, and parent ministry/commanding organization.
Indian Army
Tasks
The Indian Army is a land-based division of the Indian Armed Forces. Its role is to safeguard the country’s territorial integrity and maintain peace and security. It is also responsible for conducting operations during war or conflict. Indian Army is operational in peacetime and conflicts, including emergency operations.
Chain of Command
The Chief of the Indian Army is a four-star general with the highest ranking officer. The COAS reports to the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) and the Ministry of Defense.
Recruitment Process –
The recruitment process goes through various means, including National Defense Academy exam, Combined Defense Services (CDS) examination, and direct recruitment rallies. After the written examination, the candidates go through rigorous physical fitness and combat training.
BSF
Tasks –
BSF is a Central Armed Police Force of the Indian Armed Forces responsible for safeguarding borders.BSF is responsible for border security, preventing crimes, smuggling, illegal immigration, and maintaining peace along the borders.
Chain of Command-
BSF is in command of the Director-General (DG), who reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Recruitment Process –
The BSF recruits personnel through its recruitment process, including direct recruitment and promotions. The candidates get training on border security, weapon handling, counterinsurgency operations, and other specialized skills.
FAQs on the Difference between Army and BSF
Q1- What is the salary difference between the BSF and the Army?
A1- ? The average salary for a BSF is ₹46,466 per month, while that of the Indian Army is ₹46,044 per month.
Q2- What is the highest post in the Indian Army?
A2- The highest post in the Indian Army is Field Marshal. The collar patch features five golden stars.
Q3- What is the highest post in BSF?
A3-The highest post in BSF is Director General. The collar patch has a
a silver oak-leaf pattern on a dark blue woolen material.
Q4- How many ranks are there in the BSF?
There are several ranks in BSF, and they have been categorized into three categories-
- Gazetted Officers,
- Subordinate Officers, and
- Non-Gazetted Officers.
Q5-What is the motto of the Indian Army?
A5- The motto of the Indian Army is Seva Paramo Dharma, meaning
Service before Self.