Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Official Notification Out for 2972 Posts
New recruitment opportunities have been announced by the Forest Department for 2026, with the official notification now released. This recruitment drive aims to fill a substantial number of positions across various categories, welcoming both male and female candidates to apply online.
Key Highlights of Forest Department Recruitment 2026
- Total Vacancies: 2972 posts
- Eligibility: 10th Pass, 12th Pass, and Graduation (depending on the post)
- Application Mode: Online
- Starting Salary: ₹14,000 to ₹70,000 per month
- Gender: Open for both Male and Female candidates
- Application Fee: No application fee for any category
Vacancies and Post Details
The 2972 vacancies are distributed across various categories within the Forest Department. Detailed post categories include:
- Forest & Wildlife Posts:
- Forester Grade First Post
- Forest Guard Post
- Game Watcher Post
- Protection & Constable Posts:
- AF and PF Constable Post
- Constable UB & AB Post
- Constable WO & WT Post
- Fire & Emergency Services Posts:
- Sub Officer
- Fireman
- Emergency Rescuer
- Technical & Specialized Posts:
- Constable Bandsman
- Bugler
- Bandsman
Education Qualification (Eligibility Criteria)
The required educational qualifications vary based on the specific post:
- Forester Grade First: Graduation in any discipline from a recognized board.
- Forest Guard / Game Watcher: 12th Pass (Intermediate qualified) from a recognized board.
- AF and PF Constable / Grade Third: 10th Pass (High School) from a recognized board.
- Sub Officer WO & WT: 12th Pass with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Fireman / Emergency Rescuer: 12th Pass with Science stream.
- Boatsman: 10th Pass plus swimming proficiency. Candidates must possess a valid certificate at the time of document verification.
All qualifications must be from a recognized board.
Age Limit and Relaxation
The age requirements differ for various posts, with relaxations provided as per government rules:
- Sub Officer: 20 years to a maximum of 24 years.
- Forest Guard / Forester: 18 years to a maximum of 40 years.
- AF and PF Constable: 18 years to a maximum of 25 years.
- Fireman / Emergency Rescuer: 18 years to a maximum of 25 years.
Age Relaxation:
- SC/ST Candidates: 5 years
- OBC/MOBC Candidates: 3 years
- Ex-Servicemen: As per government norms.
Application Fee
A significant advantage of this recruitment drive is that no application fee is required for any category of candidates.
- General: ₹0
- OBC: ₹0
- SC/ST: ₹0
- Women: ₹0
- EWS: ₹0
Candidates are not required to make any online payments. It is advised to be aware of fake websites asking for payment and always apply through the official website.
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of multiple stages to ensure comprehensive evaluation:
- Physical Standard Test (PST): Height and chest measurements will be checked.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Includes running and other physical endurance tests.
- Written Examination: An objective-type exam covering:
- General Knowledge
- Current Affairs (specifically Assam related)
- Logical Reasoning
- Mathematics
- English
- Assamese
- Skill Test (Applicable for specific posts):
- Boatsman: Swimming test.
- Bandsman / Bugler: Music skill test.
- WO & WT: Technical knowledge test.
- Document Verification: Candidates’ original documents will be verified.
- Final Merit List: A final selection list will be published based on performance across all applicable stages.
Physical Standards and Efficiency Test (PST & PET)
Physical fitness is mandatory for most posts. Candidates are advised to start physical preparation well in advance.
Height Required:
- Male Candidates (General/OBC): 162.5 cm
- Male Candidates (SC/ST): 160 cm
- Female Candidates (General/OBC): 154 cm
- Female Candidates (SC/ST): 152 cm
Chest Measurement (for Male Candidates):
- Normal: 79 cm
- Expanded: 84 cm (a minimum expansion of 5 cm is required)
Physical Efficiency Test (PET):
- Male Candidates: 3200 meters run within the prescribed time.
- Female Candidates: 1600 meters run within the prescribed time.
- Additional Tests: May also include long jump, high jump, and endurance tests.
Salary and Benefits
Salaries vary by post but generally include a competitive basic pay along with various allowances:
- Basic Pay: ₹14,000 to ₹70,000 per month.
- Grade Pay: ₹4,200 to ₹6,400 (depending on the post).
- Additional Benefits:
- Dearness Allowances (DA)
- House Rent Allowances (HRA)
- Medical Benefits
- Travel Allowances
- Pension Benefits
The total in-hand salary will depend on the posting location and applicable allowances.
Important Dates
- Last Date to Apply Online: February 22, 2026
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates can apply for the Forest Department Recruitment 2026 by following the steps on the official website. Candidates should thoroughly read the official notification before applying.
This recruitment offers a significant opportunity for individuals seeking government jobs in the Forest Department. Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and prepare thoroughly for the selection process.

