ISRO scientists are paid under the Central Government pay matrix. A Scientist/Engineer 'SC' starts with a basic salary of ₹56,100 (Level 10), while some higher-level scientist posts begin at ₹67,700 (Level 11). With promotions based on performance, scientists can rise to the post of Distinguished Scientist (Level 16), where the basic salary ranges from ₹2.05 lakh to ₹2.24 lakh.