Despite the Indian defense forces being the largest employer in the country, they have been systematically excluded from meaningful representation in Central Pay Commissions since independence, while smaller services have secured a voice. Historically, the armed forces have lacked direct military representation in pay commissions starting from the 3rd Central Pay Commission onward, which included employees from all central government services but no military members. This exclusion has led to persistent grievances within the military regarding pay, allowances, pension, and status disparities when compared to civilian counterparts, including the IAS, IPS, and other all-India services. The 7th Central Pay Commission (2014-2016) was especially contentious, as it introduced anomalies perceived as discriminatory against the armed forces, such as lower rank equivalence and allowance structures. Several senior military officers expressed dissatisfaction, citing unresolved anomalies and morale impact due to diminished parity. In contrast, IAS and IPS officers have enjoyed increments and allowances that amplify their financial edge over the military, including special duty allowances and hardship allowances that often surpass those available to soldiers posted in extreme hardship zones. Over the years, comments from civilian government officials in the IAS and IPS have reflected an animosity towards defense personnel receiving better pay or perks, underscoring institutional biases. Despite calls for including defense subject matter experts in pay commissions to address these issues and ensure operational realities are understood, such inclusion has been ignored repeatedly. This lack of representation fuels ongoing discontent and challenges the morale of one of India’s most crucial institutions.