The average nursing salary in India varies based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the type of healthcare facility. Nurses, along with doctors, play an important role as the saviours of our society. In India, entry-level nurses typically earn between Rs 0.9 Lakh - 8.4 Lakhs per annum, while experienced nurses in government or private hospitals may earn Rs 1 Lakh - 5.5 Lakhs or more annually.
A career as a nurse is not only rewarding but personally fulfilling. Read on to learn more about the nursing salary in India and the factors that influence it.
Currently, India has the biggest nursing job provider in the world. Around 62% of medical professionals are working as nurses. According to the latest data, the global healthcare market is expected to grow at a steady rate of 6.27% in 2025. Below we have mentioned different types of nurses and their salaries to help you understand the scope of nursing salary in India government and private sectors.
Job Profile | Salary Range |
Rs. 1 Lakh - 4.5 Lakhs | |
Head Nurse | Rs. 1.5 Lakh - 15.5 Lakhs |
Clinical Nurse Specialist | Rs. 2.6 Lakhs - 20 Lakhs |
Nursing Instructor | Rs. 1.5 Lakh - 6.3 Lakhs |
Nurse Practitioner | Rs. 1.8 Lakh - 10 Lakhs |
Nurse Manager | Rs. 2.6 Lakhs - 15 Lakhs |
(Salary Source: Ambitionbox)
The nursing job is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services to all individuals, regardless of their background or political inclinations. This profession aims to provide the best possible healthcare to each individual. Through a combination of medical experts, nurses develop effective treatment plans and provide comprehensive care to meet the varying needs of patients.
The national codes and standards of the various countries vary slightly. However, all nurses follow the four core principles of nursing practice. These principles are focused on ensuring that the nurses deliver the highest quality of healthcare to their patients. They also act with integrity and honour by upholding the dignity of the profession.
Unlike doctors and other healthcare experts, nurses have different training and professional goals. Some nurses specialise in different nursing courses and specialisations such as the palliative care course, the cardiac thoracic nursing course, and the orthopaedic and rehabilitation nursing course. They also have varying levels of autonomy and prescription authority. The nursing salary in India also varies based on these specialisations and qualifications.
Nurses work in a wide range of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and schools. They often work in shifts to provide patient care. Some nurses may also serve as consultants for various insurance companies, helping with medical assessments and offering advocacy for their clients. Others can find opportunities in pharmaceutical companies and research institutions focusing on drug development and clinical studies.
Graduates with a BSc Nursing degree can find various career opportunities in both government and private sectors. Those who pursue online nursing courses & certifications can also find employment in various healthcare organisations. This diversity in the work environment also significantly influences the nursing salary in India per month.
A Registered Nurse typically earns an average nursing salary in India of Rs. 1 Lakh - 5.5 Lakhs per year. As a fresher, a nursing professional can enjoy a yearly salary of Rs 0.9 Lakh - 8.4 Lakhs. Experienced nurses with 11 years of experience in the industry can expect to make Rs 1.8 Lakh - 1.8 Lakh.
(Salary source: Ambitionbox)
Nursing Salary in India for experienced nurses increases considerably as they gain experience and expertise in the industry. With experience, nurses will be more skilled in patient care and other critical aspects. While private hospitals and government hospitals pay different salaries, Nursing Salary in India government positions are typically higher
The experience level is very important in determining the salary of a nurse. Nurses with limited experience earn lower nursing salary in India. But their pay increases as they gain skills and expertise in their profession. Here is a table reflecting the gradual increase in nursing salary in India depending on the work experience of the professional.
Years of experience | Nursing Salary in India |
1 Years | Rs 0.9 Lakh - 4.5 Lakhs |
2 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 5 Lakhs |
3 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 5 Lakhs |
4 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 6 Lakhs |
5 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 5 Lakhs |
6 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 5.5 Lakhs |
7 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 7.2 Lakhs |
8 Years | Rs 1 Lakh - 6.5 Lakhs |
9 Years | Rs 1.5 Lakh - 7.2 Lakhs |
10 Years | Rs 0.1 Lakh - 12.5 Lakhs |
11 Years | Rs 1.8 Lakh - 1.8 Lakh |
(Salary source: Ambitionbox)
Yes, nursing is one of the rewarding and respected jobs for individuals who desire to help others. There are many positive reasons to consider taking up nursing as a career, even though the jobs come with various challenges and rewards. As the demand for skilled nursing professionals rises, the nursing salary in India continues to increase, making it a financially rewarding career choice. Students can start their professional career journey as a nurse by preparing for nursing entrance exams in India to secure admission into top nursing colleges.
Now, let’s understand what the perks of working in the field of nursing are.
1. You get to help people in need
You will be able to save the lives of people by providing them with the best medical care possible. You will also help them cope with their emotional issues.
As a nurse, you'll also promote the importance of well-being and public health. You'll also be able to positively affect the lives of many people.
2. Nursing jobs are in demand
Due to the increasing number of people needing healthcare, the demand for nurses will always be high. Due to the increasing number of people needing healthcare, the demand for nurses has also increased. This profession is expected to continue developing.
With numerous job options, nurses can choose the one that best suits their interests. There are also various career paths available for nurses, such as becoming a Registered Nurse or a Nurse Manager.
3. There’s plenty of room to grow
Aside from being able to provide quality healthcare, nurses also have the opportunity to develop their skills in various areas, such as infection control and surgical asepsis.
4. Decent package
According to AMN Healthcare's 2017 survey, 83% of registered nurses are satisfied with their job performance. Not only are they paid a good average nursing salary, but they are also regarded by the community as a whole.
5. You can pursue nursing education online
Online nursing programs are also becoming more prevalent in today's world. These are designed to provide students with a well-rounded curriculum and practical assignments. Another advantage of taking up an online nursing course is that it's cheaper than traditional ones.
Beyond hospitals, nurses also play a vital role in providing care and ensuring the well-being of the communities they live in. They deliver quality healthcare to people in need.
In this article, we have looked into some of the key aspects such as nursing salary in India, job roles, responsibilities, work environments and career prospects. Pursuing a career as a nurse can be both fulfilling and financially rewarding, as the nursing salary in India is competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There are plenty of career opportunities after a nursing course in both private and public hospitals. A nursing course leads to roles such as Registered Nurses, Nurse Educators or Clinical Instructors.
After completing B.Sc nursing, you can find opportunities in various government nursing jobs such as Staff Nurse, Military Nurse, Community Health Officer Or Nursing Officer in AIIMS and ESIC hospitals.
A nursing professional who graduated with a BSc degree in nursing can expect to earn around Rs 15,000 - 16,000 per month in India.