Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Official Notification Released for 1518 Posts
The Forest Department (Van Vibhag) has officially released a new recruitment notification for 2026, offering numerous opportunities for eligible candidates. This recruitment drive is open to both male and female applicants who have passed their 10th or 12th grade examinations. Online applications are invited for these positions.
Vacancy Details
A total of 1518 posts have been announced for the Forest Department Recruitment 2026. Applications for these positions will be accepted through online mode. The distribution of vacancies across different roles is as follows:
- Forest Guard: 896 posts
- Forester: 47 posts
- Excise Constable: 575 posts
This brings the total number of vacancies to 1518.
Eligibility Criteria
Both male and female candidates are eligible to apply for these positions. The specific educational qualifications and age limits for each post are detailed below.
Educational Qualification
- Forester: Candidates must have passed 12th grade (10+2) from a recognized board or university. Candidates from the science stream will be given preference.
- Forest Guard: Candidates must have passed the High School Certificate (10th grade) from a recognized board.
- Excise Constable: Candidates must have passed 12th grade from any recognized stream.
Age Limit
The age limits for the recruitment are calculated as of January 1, 2025.
- Forester & Forest Guard: The minimum age limit is 18 years, and the maximum age limit is 32 years.
- Excise Constable: The minimum age limit is 21 years, and the maximum age limit is 32 years.
Age relaxation will be provided to SC, ST, OBC, and female candidates as per government rules and regulations.
Physical Standards Test (PST)
Candidates applying for Forest Guard and Forester roles must meet specific physical standards:
- Male Candidates:
- Height: 163 cm
- Chest: 79 cm (with a mandatory expansion of 5 cm)
- Female Candidates:
- Height: 150 cm
- Chest: Not Applicable
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
The physical efficiency requirements vary by post:
- Forest Guard & Forester: Candidates will need to complete a 25 km walk within a stipulated time.
- Excise Constable: Running and other physical tests will be conducted as per the specific rules for the post.
Salary / Pay Scale
Selected candidates will receive competitive salaries along with Dearness Allowance (DA) and other allowances as per government rules. The pay scales are as follows:
- Forester: ₹25,500 to ₹81,000 per month
- Forest Guard: ₹19,900 to ₹63,200 per month
- Excise Constable: ₹19,900 to ₹63,200 per month
For complete details on salary and allowances, candidates are advised to refer to the official notification.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Forest Department Recruitment 2026 will involve several stages:
- Written Examination: An OMR-based written test will be conducted.
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET) & Physical Standard Test (PST): Candidates will undergo physical measurement and endurance tests.
- Document Verification: All submitted documents will be verified.
- Final Merit List: A final merit list will be prepared based on performance in all stages of the selection process.
Required Documents for Application
Candidates applying online will need the following documents:
- Photograph and Signature
- 10th and 12th Marksheets
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Aadhaar Card
Important Dates
The official notification for these vacancies was released on December 30, 2025.
- Application Starting Date: January 7, 2026
- Application Last Date: February 7, 2026
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates can apply for the Forest Department Recruitment 2026 by visiting the official website of OSSC. All applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the official notification and guidelines before submitting their online applications.
