§ Mr. Granvilleasked the Secretary of State for India what steps have been taken to increase the pay of non-tradesmen classes of other ranks in the Indian Army; and what percentage these classes constitute of the total strength.
§ Mr. AmeryWith effect from 1st January, 1944, proficiency pay for non-tradesmen combatants has been increased by Rs. 3 per mensem after 6 months' service, and by a further Rs. 2 per mensem after 12 months' service, provided certain standards of proficiency have been attained. For non-combatants the increases are Rs. 2 and Rs. x respectively. The rates of batta for all Indian other ranks in Field Service Areas have also been increased by Rs. 3 per mensem for combatants and Rs. 2 per mensem for noncombatants, with effect from the same date. Non-tradesmen constitute approximately 80 per cent. of the total strength of the Indian Army.