Swanky Mercedes, fat pay packet - perks galore for Pranab

New Delhi, Jul 23: For most Indians the President's post symbolizes a life of luxury and extravaganza with official perks and incentives worthy of envy. When Congress veteran and former UPA Minister of Finance swears-in as the 13th President of India, he will receive many more goodies compared to his stint as Minister.

Apart from living it up in the palatial Rashtrapathi Bhavan, the official home of the President of the country, he will take home a salary of Rs.1.5 lakh a month. The President can also utilize the retreats in Shimla and Hyderabad for official stays. Close to 200 staff will maintain the imposing Rashtrapathi Bhavan.

Besides the change of address, Pranab will see a change in his mode of transport when he will get to move around in a swanky Mercedes Benz limousine, which is the official car for the head of the nation. The black S600L 'Pullman' luxury saloon is bullet proof and was acquired during the tenure of former President Pratibha Patil.

Once the President retires, he will be entitled to Rs.75,000 a month as pension besides a furnished rent free bungalow (Type VIII).

Apart from the cash quotient, the retired head of the country will also enjoy two free landline telephones and a mobile phone, five personal staff including a private secretary, an official car and staff expenses of Rs.60,000 per annum. He can also travel free of charge by train or air along with a companion after he quits office.

OneIndia News