SDM (BAS) vs DySP (BPS) in Bihar: Cadre Hierarchy, Powers, Salary & Preferences
State Civil Services Academic Board (Former State Administrators) • 12 min read • Published: 2026-10-31
A complete comparative analysis of Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in Bihar Administrative Service vs Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) in Bihar Police Service. Job profiles, executive powers, promotion timelines, and salary.
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1. Two Premier Arms of Governance in Bihar
The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM / BAS) and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP / BPS) represent the twin pillars of executive authority in Bihar districts. Both positions are recruited at Pay Level 9 (Grade Pay ₹5,400) through top rank merit in BPSC CCE.
While the SDM exercises administrative, revenue, and regulatory authority over a sub-division, the DySP commands sub-divisional police stations (SDPO), leads criminal investigations, and enforces public order.
Comparative Matrix: SDM (BAS) vs DySP (BPS)
| Feature / Dimension | Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) | Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) |
|---|---|---|
| Cadre Service | Bihar Administrative Service (BAS) | Bihar Police Service (BPS) |
| Pay Scale | Level 9 (₹53,100 – ₹1,67,800) | Level 9 (₹53,100 – ₹1,67,800) |
| Physical Criteria | No mandatory height/chest rules | Mandatory 165 cm height, 32" chest (Male UR) |
| Magisterial Power | Executive Magistrate under CrPC / BNSS | Uniformed Law Enforcement & Investigation |
| Subsequent Promotion | Additional District Magistrate (ADM) | Additional Superintendent of Police (Addl. SP) |
| All-India Induction | Induction into IAS (~12–15 years) | Induction into IPS (~14–18 years) |