Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for Elephant Kavadi Posts
Great news for job seekers in Karnataka! The Karnataka Forest Department (Forest, Environment, and Ecology Department) has officially released a recruitment notification for 2026 to fill 57 vacancies for the post of Elephant Kavadi (ಆನೆ ಕಾವಾಡಿಗ).
If you have completed your PUC (12th Standard) and meet the eligibility criteria, this is a fantastic opportunity to secure a career in wildlife management across key forest regions, including Kodagu, Shivamogga, Mysore, and Chamarajanagar.
Below is the complete guide detailing vacancy breakdowns, eligibility, age limits, required documents, selection process, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply online.
Key Highlights of Karnataka Forest Dept Recruitment 2026
| Particulars | Details |
| Recruiting Organization | Karnataka Forest Department |
| Post Name | Elephant Kavadi (ಆನೆ ಕಾವಾಡಿಗ) |
| Total Vacancies | 57 Posts |
| Educational Qualification | Pass in PUC (12th Standard) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | aranya.gov.in |
| Application Start Date | August 5, 2026 |
| Application End Date | September 3, 2026 |
Region-Wise Vacancy Details
A total of 57 posts are distributed across key forest regions in Karnataka as outlined below:
- Kodagu Region: 11 Posts
- Shivamogga Region: 09 Posts
- Mysore Region: 27 Posts
- Chamarajanagar Region: 09 Posts
- Aranya Pradesh (Other Forest Areas): 01 Post
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Candidates must have successfully passed PUC (12th Grade / Class 12) or an equivalent qualification from a recognized educational board/institution.
Age Limit (as on the application cutoff date)
Candidates must be at least 18 years old. The upper age relaxations are categorized as follows:
- General Merit (GM): 18 to 35 Years
- Category 2A / 2B / 3A / 3B: 18 to 38 Years
- SC / ST / Category-1: 18 to 40 Years
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of four main stages:
- Application Screening (ಅರ್ಜಿ ಪರಿಶೀಲನೆ): Verification of initial online application details.
- Interview (ಅಭ್ಯರ್ಥಿಗಳ ಸಂದರ್ಶನ): Personal interview round to assess suitability for working with wildlife/elephants.
- Document Verification (ದಾಖಲೆ ಪರಿಶೀಲನೆ): Verification of original certificates and identity proof.
- Merit-Based Selection (ಮೆರಿಟ್ ಆಧಾರದ ಮೇಲೆ ನೇಮಕಾತಿ): Final selection based on overall qualifications, interview performance, and eligibility merit lists.
Required Documents for Application
Ensure you have the following scanned documents ready before starting the online registration:
- SSLC Marks Card (10th Standard)
- PUC Marks Card (12th Standard)
- Aadhaar Card (Identity Proof)
- Caste Certificate (If applicable for reservation)
- Domicile / Residence Certificate (ನಿವಾಸ ಪ್ರಮಾಣ ಪತ್ರ)
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
- Candidate’s Signature
Important Dates to Remember
- Starting Date for Online Application: August 5, 2026
- Last Date for Online Application: September 3, 2026
How to Apply Online for Karnataka Elephant Kavadi Recruitment 2026
- Visit the official portal of the Karnataka Forest Department at https://aranya.gov.in.
- Navigate to the Recruitment / Careers section.
- Carefully read the official notification document for the Elephant Kavadi (ಆನೆ ಕಾವಾಡಿಗ) recruitment.
- Click on Apply Online and fill in your basic personal, educational, and communication details.
- Upload the required documents (Marks Cards, ID Proof, Photo, and Signature).
- Cross-check all entered information carefully before hitting the final submit button.
- Print a copy of the submitted application form for future reference.
Important Note: Always thoroughly read the official recruitment notification provided on the government website before filling out your online form. In case of technical issues, contact the helpdesk provided on the official portal.