Government employees do not automatically get free accommodation — it depends on the post, the city and availability of government quarters.
In many cities employees can apply for government quarters and pay only a nominal licence fee, far below market rent.
Employees who do not take government accommodation usually receive House Rent Allowance (HRA) as part of their salary.
Allotment follows a waiting list based on seniority and pay level, so junior employees may wait a long time in big cities.
Field postings in banks, railways and paramilitary forces often come with accommodation more easily than metro postings.