Srinagar, Oct. 9 -- The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has cleared a proposal for a significant salary hike for around 32,000 Special Police Officers (SPOs) serving in Jammu and Kashmir, with the file having been sent to the Union Finance Ministry for approval, officials said.

According to officials, the proposal was initiated following recommendations from the Jammu and Kashmir administration and Police Department, which highlighted the SPOs' contribution to anti-terror operations and other policing duties despite their comparatively low salaries.

The MHA has agreed to the proposal and recommended a substantial increase in their monthly remuneration, along with allowances, including hardship-related benefits. The final approval f...