Forest Department Jobs 2026 – Apply Now | 10th Pass & 12th Pass Government Jobs With Good Salary f 1
Forest Department jobs remain one of the most respected and stable government career options in India. Every year, State Forest Departments and central forest authorities release recruitment notifications for posts such as Forest Guard, Forester, Beat Forest Officer, Forest Watcher, and other field and administrative positions.
If you are a 10th pass or 12th pass candidate looking for a secure government job in 2026, this complete guide will explain eligibility, salary structure, physical requirements, selection process, promotion scope, syllabus, preparation strategy, and step-by-step application process in detail.
This article is written in a clear and professional format for serious aspirants.
Overview of Forest Department Recruitment 2026
The Forest Department functions under State Governments and at the central level under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Its primary responsibility is to protect forests, conserve biodiversity, manage wildlife, prevent illegal logging, and maintain ecological balance.
Forest Department recruitment is conducted state-wise. Each state releases its own notification based on vacancy requirements.
Common posts include:
- Forest Guard
- Forester
- Beat Forest Officer
- Forest Watcher
- Wildlife Guard
- Driver (Forest Department)
- Technical and clerical staff
Many of these posts are open to candidates who have completed 10th pass (SSLC) or 12th pass (PUC / Intermediate).
Types of Forest Department Posts
Understanding different posts helps you decide which role suits your qualification and interest.
Forest Guard
This is an entry-level field job. Forest Guards are responsible for:
- Patrolling forest areas
- Preventing illegal tree cutting
- Monitoring wildlife movement
- Reporting forest fires
- Assisting senior officers
Qualification: 10th pass or 12th pass (varies by state)
Forester
Foresters supervise Forest Guards and handle administrative responsibilities within a forest range.
Responsibilities include:
- Managing forest sections
- Supervising patrol teams
- Preparing reports
- Implementing conservation programs
Qualification: Usually 12th pass
Beat Forest Officer (BFO)
A Beat Officer manages a specific forest beat area. This is a responsible field position.
Qualification: 12th pass or equivalent
Forest Watcher / Vanpal
Basic support staff working in field operations.
Qualification: Often 10th pass
Educational Qualification
Qualification requirements vary slightly by state notification. However, general guidelines are:
For Forest Guard:
- Minimum 10th pass (SSLC)
- Some states require 12th pass
For Forester / Beat Forest Officer:
- 12th pass (PUC / Intermediate)
- Occasionally diploma holders are eligible
For technical posts:
- ITI / Diploma may be required
No prior work experience is usually required for entry-level posts.
Age Limit Criteria
Age limit depends on the specific notification.
General age structure:
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Maximum Age: 27 to 35 years
Some notifications allow upper age up to 40–42 years depending on category.
Age relaxation rules:
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC: 3 years
- Ex-servicemen: As per government rules
- Persons with Disabilities: As per applicable norms
Candidates must satisfy age criteria on the cut-off date mentioned in the notification.
Physical Standards and Requirements
Forest jobs are field-based and physically demanding. Candidates must meet physical standards.
Physical Standard Test (PST)
Typical requirements (may vary by state):
Male Candidates:
- Height: Around 163 cm
- Chest: Around 79 cm (with expansion)
Female Candidates:
- Height: Around 150 cm
Relaxations may apply for reserved categories and hill areas.
Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Common physical tests include:
Male:
- 5 km run within specified time
Female:
- 3 km run within specified time
Some states may include walking tests instead of running.
Failure in physical tests leads to disqualification.
Selection Process in Detail
Forest Department recruitment generally follows these stages:
Stage 1: Online Application
Candidates apply through the official recruitment portal.
Stage 2: Written Examination
The written test evaluates basic knowledge and aptitude.
Common subjects include:
- General Knowledge
- Current Affairs
- Indian Constitution
- Environment and Ecology
- Wildlife and Forestry
- Mathematics (basic level)
- Reasoning Ability
Stage 3: Physical Standard Test
Height and chest measurements are verified.
Stage 4: Physical Efficiency Test
Candidates must complete running/walking within prescribed time.
Stage 5: Medical Examination
General health check-up to ensure fitness for field duty.
Stage 6: Document Verification
Original certificates are verified before final selection.
Stage 7: Final Merit List
Selection is based on written exam marks and physical qualification.
Salary Structure – 7th Pay Commission
Forest Department jobs are paid under the 7th Pay Commission pay matrix.
Forest Guard Salary
Pay Level 3 (varies by state)
Basic Pay Range:
Approximately ₹21,700 – ₹69,100 per month
In-hand salary:
Approximately ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 including allowances
Forester Salary
Pay Level 4 or above
Basic Pay:
Approximately ₹25,500 – ₹81,100 per month
Beat Forest Officer Salary
Can be higher depending on state pay scale.
Additional Benefits:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Travel Allowance
- Uniform allowance
- Medical benefits
- Pension benefits (as per state rules)
The ₹69,000 figure refers to the upper level of pay scale after increments, not starting salary.
Career Growth and Promotions
Forest Department jobs offer long-term career growth.
Promotion path example:
Forest Guard
→ Forester
→ Deputy Range Forest Officer
→ Range Forest Officer
Promotions depend on:
- Years of service
- Departmental exams
- Performance record
Stable career progression makes this job attractive.
Job Responsibilities and Work Environment
Forest jobs involve outdoor work. Responsibilities include:
- Night patrolling
- Monitoring wildlife activity
- Protecting forest resources
- Preventing smuggling
- Handling forest fire situations
- Supporting eco-tourism activities
Work can be physically challenging but rewarding.
How to Apply for Forest Department Jobs 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1:
Visit your State Forest Department official website.
Step 2:
Go to Recruitment or Careers section.
Step 3:
Download the official notification PDF.
Step 4:
Read eligibility, age limit, physical requirements, exam syllabus.
Step 5:
Register with valid email and mobile number.
Step 6:
Fill online application form with accurate details.
Step 7:
Upload required documents:
- 10th / 12th marks card
- Photo
- Signature
- ID proof
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
Step 8:
Pay application fee (if applicable).
Step 9:
Submit form and download confirmation copy.
Always apply before last date.
Documents Required
- 10th and 12th mark sheets
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste certificate
- Income certificate (if required)
- Passport size photographs
- Physical fitness certificate (if asked)
Keep both scanned and original copies ready.
Preparation Strategy for Written Exam
To succeed in Forest Department recruitment:
- Study General Knowledge daily.
- Read current affairs related to environment and wildlife.
- Practice basic mathematics and reasoning.
- Revise Indian geography and ecology.
- Solve previous year question papers.
Consistent preparation improves chances of selection.
Preparation Strategy for Physical Test
Start early physical preparation:
- Practice daily running
- Improve stamina
- Maintain healthy diet
- Avoid smoking or unhealthy habits
- Monitor BMI and weight
Physical fitness is crucial for selection.
Important Points to Remember
- Do not believe fake recruitment advertisements.
- Always verify from official government websites.
- Keep checking notifications regularly.
- Ensure documents are genuine.
- Prepare both academically and physically.
Why Choose Forest Department Job?
Key benefits include:
- Government job security
- Respectable uniformed service
- Outdoor nature-based career
- Pension and retirement benefits
- Regular salary increments
- Promotion opportunities
It is ideal for candidates who enjoy fieldwork and environmental protection.
Click Hear to Apply
Forest Department Recruitment 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for 10th pass and 12th pass candidates to secure a stable government job. With structured selection process, fair pay under 7th Pay Commission, and long-term career growth, these positions are highly competitive.
The starting salary may range between ₹23,000 to ₹35,000 per month, with potential growth up to ₹69,000 or more based on post and experience.
If you meet eligibility criteria, start preparing today. Focus on written exam preparation and physical fitness. Monitor official state forest department websites for recruitment notifications and apply before deadlines.
A career in the Forest Department not only offers financial stability but also provides an opportunity to serve nature and protect the environment for future generations.