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The controversy began when the techie’s wife asked for advice on X regarding the possible change in her career.
The techie provided information regarding their financial circumstances. (representative image)
A software engineer from Hyderabad has sparked a lot of conversation on social media about his intention to quit a lucrative IT career to apply for a government job as a Sub Inspector, underscoring the timeless value of job stability over remuneration.
The techie, who makes Rs 28 lakh per year, is considering studying full-time for the police recruitment exam, which, if passed, would result in a monthly pay of about Rs 60,000. His wife posted the concern on X (formerly Twitter), which sparked discussions on work-life balance, financial restraint, and the perceived grandeur of government service.
Private vs Government Job Debate
The argument started when the techie’s wife wrote on X, asking for advice regarding the possible career switch. She pointed out that the decision is particularly important for the family’s financial security because both of them have a three-year-old child and have 10 years of experience working in Hyderabad’s IT industry.
Sharing their professional and financial situations, Neha Singhal wrote on, “Me and I both have been working as software engineers in Hyderabad for the past 10 years. His CTC is 28L and mine is 25L. We have a 3-year-old kid. My husband is planning to prepare for SUB-INSPECTOR. The salary for SI will be around 60K per month. Is it a good decision to prepare?”
Me and my husband both have been working as software engineers in Hyderabad for the past 10 years. His CTC is 28L and mine is 25L. We have a 3 year old kid. My husband is planning to prepare for SUB-INSPECTOR. The salary for SI will get around 60K per month. Is it good…— Neha Singhal Trader (@nsinghal211) February 15, 2026
The post quickly went viral, capturing numerous responses offering sharply divided opinions. Some stressed the risks of leaving a secure private-sector job and the large wage loss, while others emphasised the prestige and stability of a government position.
Internet Reacts Over Eligible Age Requirement
Several online users questioned the man’s age, which would make him eligible for the position of a Sub-Inspector.
One user commented, “He has 10 years of working experience. If he joined at 21 now he’s already 31. How can he apply for a Sub Inspector post? The age limit for SI is 25 years la?”
“First of all what is his age? Or is he in the reservation category? Otherwise, don’t post just to get engagement,” a second user said.
Salary Gap, Job Security, Financial Stability
Many commenters pointed out the obvious discrepancy between the current salary and the expected income. Compared to the predicted Rs 60,000 monthly compensation for a Sub Inspector, which is less than one-third of the existing income (a Rs 28 LPA salary is equivalent to almost Rs 2.3 lakh per month before taxes).
The lifestyle, savings, and long-term financial planning of the family, particularly if they have a small child, may be impacted by such a significant cut, according to several users
“If the motivation is government job security with respect … that’s emotional thinking, not financial thinking. You already have security with money and flexibility. Don’t downgrade a winning position because of job-title romance,” one user said.
If the motivation is government job security with respect … that’s emotional thinking, not financial thinking. You already have security with money and flexibility. Don’t downgrade a winning position because of job-title romance.— Bumble_Bee (@Spartan_Bubble) February 16, 2026
Others advised reducing risk by studying for the exam while continuing to work in the existing position. Some also mentioned the unpredictability and stress of commercial IT jobs, such as long hours and layoffs, as reasons why people choose jobs in the public sector.
Delhi, India, India
February 16, 2026, 18:57 IST
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