The Forest Department has officially released a recruitment notification for the direct engagement of Forest Watcher (Forest Observer) positions in Group ‘D’. A total of 774 vacancies are open for registration under this recruitment drive. Eligible 10th-pass candidates can submit their applications online through the official recruitment portal before the closing deadline.
Below, we have detailed all the essential information regarding this recruitment drive, including vacancy breakdowns, mandatory educational qualifications, age limits, selection process, and step-by-step application instructions.
Forest Watcher Key Highlights
- Organization: Forest Department
- Post Name: Forest Watcher / Forest Observer (Group D)
- Total Vacancies: 774 Posts
- Pay Scale: ₹27,500 – ₹46,675/- per month (Basic Pay starting at ₹29,600/- + allowances)
- Application Mode: Online
Important Dates
- Notification Release Date: July 2026
- Online Application Starts From: August 01, 2026
- Last Date to Apply Online: August 31, 2026
- Last Date for Fee Payment: September 02, 2026
- Physical Test Schedule: To be announced on the official portal.
Vacancy & Pay Structure
Here is the breakdown of the available vacancies and salary details:
- Forest Watcher / Forest Observer: 750 Posts (700 General + 50 Special Region)
- Pay Scale: ₹27,500 – ₹46,675/- per month plus DA, HRA, and field allowances.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates must satisfy the following academic prerequisites before applying:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed SSLC (Class 10th) or an equivalent examination from a recognized Board of Education. Candidates awaiting results are not eligible.
Age Limit Criteria
Applicants must satisfy the age requirement calculated as of the notification cutoff date:
- Minimum Age: 18 Years
- Maximum Age: 30 Years (Unreserved / General)
- Note: Age relaxations apply per rules (3 years for OBC, 5 years for SC/ST/Category-I, and up to 40+ years for existing forest volunteers).
Selection Process
Selection will be made without any written examination through the following phases:
- Academic Merit Screening: Shortlisting based on SSLC (10th) marks (1:20 ratio).
- Physical Standard Test (PST): Height, chest, and physical parameter evaluation.
- Physical Endurance & Efficiency Test (PET): Running, long jump, high jump, and shot-put events.
- Document Verification: Final confirmation of original mark sheets and category certificates.
How to Apply for Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
Eligible candidates can easily submit their registration by completing these steps:
- Visit the official website: Access the official online recruitment portal of the department at aranya.gov.in.
- New Registration: Click on the Recruitment link and register using your Aadhaar number, active mobile number, and email ID.
- Fill up Personal Details: Log in with your registration credentials and complete the application form with personal info, exact SSLC marks, and category details.
- Upload Documents: Upload scanned copies of your passport-sized photograph, signature, SSLC mark sheet, and category/domicile certificates.
- Pay Fee & Final Submission: Process the application fee payment online via Net Banking, UPI, or Debit/Credit card (or bank challan), submit the form, and download a clean printout of the confirmation page.
Important Links:
For Apply Link: – APPLY ONLINE
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