BSI Project Jeevan Beej Recruitment 2026: 5 Junior Project Fellow + 7 Field Attendant Posts in Himalayan Seed Conservation

BSI Recruitment 2026 – Overview

The Botanical Survey of India (BSI), under the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC), has released an official recruitment notification for Project Jeevan Beej: National Seed Bank for the Conservation of India's Endemic and Threatened Flora of Himalayan Region. This recruitment aims to fill 12 temporary, contract-based positions across various locations in the Himalayan region. The advertised posts include 5 Junior Project Fellow (JPF) positions and 7 Field Attendant (FA) positions. These positions are purely temporary and co-terminus with the project duration, with no provision for permanent absorption into BSI. Candidates with relevant academic backgrounds in Botany, Life Sciences, Plant Sciences, or Ecology and field experience in plant surveys are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights

Candidates applying for BSI Junior Project Fellow posts must possess a First Class M.Sc. degree in Botany, Life Sciences, Plant Sciences, or Ecology from a UGC recognized university, along with at least one year of research experience in conducting field surveys. Field Attendant applicants require a Bachelor's degree with field experience in plant collection and MS Office proficiency. The maximum age limit is 28 years for both posts, with age relaxation applicable as per Government of India norms for reserved categories. Selection will be based on application screening, shortlisting, and interviews conducted either offline or online at BGIR, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. The Junior Project Fellow positions are distributed across strategic Himalayan locations including Noida, Dehradun, Gangtok, Shillong, and Itanagar, with emoluments varying based on city classification under HRA guidelines. Field Attendants will be stationed at similar locations plus Solan (HAWRC), receiving a consolidated monthly salary. Applications must be submitted via email within 30 days of advertisement publication, with the last date being 25th February 2026.

About Important Dates of BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Important Dates section for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 outlines the complete recruitment timeline from advertisement publication to interview scheduling. The most crucial deadline candidates must remember is 25th February 2026, which marks the last date for application submission. This deadline falls exactly 30 days after the official advertisement publication date on the MoEF&CC and BSI websites. Unlike many government recruitments that specify exact times for opening and closing of application windows, this notification requires candidates to calculate the submission period based on the advertisement date they encounter. This approach means applicants should act promptly upon discovering the notification rather than waiting until the final days, as the 30-day window may have already begun when they first see it. The interview dates will be communicated separately only to shortlisted candidates, which emphasizes the importance of providing accurate contact details in the application form. Candidates must plan to report at least one hour before their scheduled interview time at BGIR, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, demonstrating punctuality and professional readiness. Late arrivals will not be entertained under any circumstances, making time management critical for this recruitment process. The flexibility of offline or online interview modes provides accessibility but candidates should prepare for either format until official confirmation arrives.

About Application Fee for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Application Fee structure for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 presents a significant advantage for all candidates as no fee is mentioned or required for submission. This fee-free application process removes a common financial barrier and makes the opportunity accessible to candidates from all economic backgrounds, particularly freshers and those from rural or economically weaker sections who might find even nominal fees challenging. The absence of application fees also eliminates concerns about payment modes, transaction charges, fee refund policies, and payment confirmation issues that typically complicate online application processes. Candidates do not need to worry about keeping payment receipts, matching transaction IDs, or dealing with failed payment gateways. However, candidates should note that while no application fee is required, they must bear their own costs for preparing application materials, photocopying documents, internet charges for email submission, and travel expenses if called for an interview. The notification explicitly states that no TA/DA (Travelling Allowance/Dearness Allowance) will be provided for attending interviews, meaning candidates must budget for accommodation, food, and transportation to Noida if selected for the interview stage. This fee-free application policy reflects the research-focused nature of the positions and BSI's commitment to attracting passionate, qualified candidates based purely on merit rather than their ability to pay application fees.

About Age Limit for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Age Limit for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 is set at a maximum of 28 years for both positions, calculated as on the last date of application submission which is 25th February 2026. This age ceiling is relatively stringent compared to many other government recruitments and reflects the physically demanding nature of field work in challenging Himalayan terrain. Candidates born on or after 26th February 1998 would be eligible based on this cut-off date. The notification provides age relaxation as per Government of India norms, which typically includes 5 years for SC/ST candidates, 3 years for OBC candidates, 10 years for PwD candidates, and additional relaxations for specific categories such as ex-servicemen, widows, divorced women, and others as specified in government orders. However, the exact relaxation amounts are not explicitly mentioned in the notification, so candidates from reserved categories should verify the applicable relaxation from official government guidelines before applying. It is crucial that candidates calculate their age correctly, as even a single day's error could lead to rejection. The age limit of 28 years suggests that BSI seeks energetic, physically capable individuals who can undertake extensive fieldwork, long treks in mountainous regions, and sustained physical activity required for plant specimen collection across the Himalayan ecosystem. Candidates who are close to the age limit should prepare age proof documents meticulously, as these will be verified during document verification stages.

About Eligibility Criteria for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Eligibility Criteria for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 establish clear educational, experiential, and physical fitness standards that candidates must meet. For Junior Project Fellow positions, candidates must possess a First Class Master's degree (M.Sc.) specifically in Botany, Life Sciences, Plant Sciences, or Ecology from a UGC recognized university. The "First Class" requirement typically means securing 60% marks or above, though some universities may have different criteria, and candidates should verify this from their university marking system. Crucially, the JPF role demands at least one year of proven research experience in conducting field surveys, which cannot be substituted with classroom learning or theoretical research alone. This experience must involve actual fieldwork, data collection in natural habitats, and hands-on botanical survey methodologies. For Field Attendant positions, the educational requirement is less stringent, requiring only a Bachelor's degree from any recognized university in any discipline. However, FA candidates must demonstrate field experience in plant collection and similar one-year research experience in conducting field surveys, emphasizing practical skills over academic credentials. Both positions mandate proficiency in MS Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as candidates will be required to maintain databases, prepare reports, and document research findings digitally. The physical fitness requirements are particularly noteworthy and non-negotiable. Candidates must be genuinely capable of extensive travel through difficult, often inaccessible Himalayan terrain, working at high altitudes, managing extreme weather conditions, and living in remote field stations with limited facilities for extended periods.

About Vacancy Details for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Vacancy Details for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 reveal a total of 12 positions distributed strategically across key Himalayan ecological zones under Project Jeevan Beej. The breakdown includes 5 Junior Project Fellow positions and 7 Field Attendant positions, reflecting the project's need for both higher-level research coordination and ground-level field support. The JPF posts are evenly distributed with one position each at five critical locations: Noida (serving as the project headquarters at BGIR), Dehradun (covering Uttarakhand's diverse flora), Gangtok (focused on Sikkim's biodiversity hotspots), Shillong (addressing Northeast India's endemic species), and Itanagar (exploring Arunachal Pradesh's unexplored botanical wealth). This geographic spread ensures comprehensive coverage of the entire Himalayan region's floristic diversity. Field Attendant positions show a slightly different distribution pattern, with Noida receiving 2 positions (reflecting higher logistical and coordination requirements at headquarters), while Dehradun, Gangtok, Shillong, and Itanagar each receive one FA position to support their respective JPFs. Additionally, one FA position is allocated to Solan at the Himalayan Agroforestry and Water Resources Center (HAWRC) in Himachal Pradesh, a specialized research facility requiring dedicated field support. The location-wise distribution is not arbitrary but reflects the intensity of field surveys planned for each region, the accessibility challenges of different terrains, and the existing BSI infrastructure available at these centers. Candidates should carefully note their preferred posting location while applying, as relocation to other centers may be difficult once assigned, though the notification reserves BSI's right to transfer personnel as needed.

Detailed Post-Wise Requirements and Expectations

Understanding the vacancy details requires recognizing the distinct yet complementary roles of Junior Project Fellows and Field Attendants within Project Jeevan Beej. Junior Project Fellows are expected to function as research coordinators who design field survey protocols, lead survey teams, conduct taxonomic identification of plant species, maintain herbarium specimens, manage GIS databases, analyze seed viability data, coordinate with local communities, prepare scientific reports, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. The requirement for only 5 JPF positions across such a vast geographical area indicates that each JPF will independently manage their regional operations with significant autonomy and responsibility. Field Attendants, though requiring lower academic qualifications, play an equally critical role in the success of botanical surveys. Their responsibilities include physically collecting plant specimens from difficult terrains, processing seeds immediately after collection, maintaining field equipment, establishing relationships with local communities and guides, recording GPS coordinates and field data, transporting specimens safely to laboratories, and assisting JPFs in documentation tasks. The larger number of FA positions (7 versus 5 JPFs) recognizes the labor-intensive nature of field collection work and the need for multiple team members during peak collection seasons. Some locations receive multiple FA positions because they serve as regional hubs requiring additional support staff for sorting, processing, and temporarily storing specimens collected from surrounding areas. Candidates applying for either position should understand that while the official descriptions may seem standardized, the actual day-to-day work will vary dramatically between a position in relatively accessible Noida versus remote, high-altitude locations in Arunachal Pradesh or Sikkim.

About Category Wise Reservation for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Category Wise Posts section for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 does not specify explicit reservation breakdowns for UR, SC, ST, OBC, EWS, or PwD categories in the official notification. This absence of detailed reservation data should not be interpreted as a lack of reservation policy, but rather indicates that the recruitment notification may not have segregated the 12 positions by category, possibly because the project-based, temporary, and contractual nature of these positions places them outside the regular reservation framework applicable to permanent government posts. However, the notification explicitly mentions that age relaxation will be applicable as per Government of India norms for SC/ST/OBC/PwD and other categories, which strongly suggests that reservation benefits exist and will be honored during selection. Candidates belonging to reserved categories should prepare their caste certificates, creamy layer certificates (for OBC candidates), and disability certificates (for PwD candidates) as per Government of India prescribed formats, issued by competent authorities. The absence of category-wise vacancy distribution may also mean that BSI will apply reservation horizontally across the total 12 positions based on the applicant pool rather than pre-allocating positions to specific categories. Candidates from reserved categories should not hesitate to apply thinking there are no reserved seats; instead, they should clearly mention their category in the application form and attach relevant certificates. During the final selection stage, BSI will implement reservation norms fairly, and reserved category candidates meeting the eligibility criteria will receive appropriate consideration according to established government policies.

About Exam Pattern and Selection Process for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Exam Pattern and Selection Process for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 follows a streamlined, interview-centric approach rather than the multi-stage written examination system common in many government recruitments. The selection process begins with Application Screening, where BSI officials will thoroughly review all submitted applications to verify that candidates meet the essential eligibility criteria including educational qualifications, research experience, age limits, and document completeness. Applications with incomplete information, missing documents, or failing to meet basic eligibility will be rejected at this stage without further consideration. The second stage involves Shortlisting of Eligible Candidates, where BSI will select a limited number of candidates who not only meet minimum eligibility but also demonstrate superior qualifications, more extensive research experience, relevant publications, or specialized skills mentioned in desirable qualifications such as GIS expertise, seed viability testing knowledge, or herbarium experience. Only shortlisted candidates will receive interview calls, meaning the shortlisting itself is highly competitive. The Interview Stage (Stage III) forms the core of the selection process and will be conducted either offline at BGIR, Noida, or online depending on circumstances and candidate locations. The interview panel will assess candidates' subject knowledge in botany and plant sciences, understanding of field survey methodologies, familiarity with Himalayan flora, technical skills in MS Office and data management, communication abilities, physical fitness for field work, and genuine interest in botanical conservation research. Final selection will be based purely on interview performance and overall merit, with no written test scores influencing the outcome. This interview-focused selection process gives BSI flexibility to assess candidates holistically beyond just academic marks, evaluating their practical field experience, problem-solving abilities, adaptability to remote working conditions, and cultural sensitivity needed for community interactions in diverse Himalayan regions.

About Physical Eligibility Criteria for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Physical Eligibility Criteria for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 emphasize functional fitness and field readiness rather than conventional physical standards like height and chest measurements common in police or paramilitary recruitments. The notification states that candidates "must be physically fit" without defining specific anthropometric measurements, which means BSI is looking for overall physical capability rather than rigid body dimensions. The emphasis on "extensive travel in difficult terrain" is particularly significant and should not be underestimated by applicants. Himalayan field surveys involve trekking through steep mountain paths, crossing streams, navigating dense forests, walking for hours carrying equipment and specimen collection gear, working at high altitudes where oxygen levels are lower, and maintaining physical stamina over consecutive days in the field. Candidates with respiratory conditions, severe joint problems, cardiovascular issues, or any medical conditions that could be aggravated by high-altitude trekking and physical exertion should carefully reconsider their application. The requirement to work in "remote Himalayan locations under challenging conditions" extends beyond physical fitness to include mental resilience, adaptability to basic living conditions with limited modern amenities, tolerance for extended periods away from family, ability to manage in areas with poor communication connectivity, and comfort with dietary restrictions based on local availability. While the notification does not mention a pre-selection physical fitness test, candidates should be prepared for the possibility of a medical examination after provisional selection to verify their fitness claims. Field Attendants particularly need superior physical fitness as they perform more labor-intensive tasks like carrying collected specimens, digging plant samples, and handling heavy equipment. Candidates who have previously undertaken trekking expeditions, participated in high-altitude tourism, or have documented field experience in similar terrains will have a significant advantage.

About Salary and Emoluments for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Salary and Emoluments structure for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 follows a city classification-based model for JPF positions while offering a consolidated fixed salary for FA positions. Junior Project Fellows receive differentiated emoluments based on their posting location's classification under Government of India's House Rent Allowance (HRA) guidelines. X City locations like Noida, being in the National Capital Region with higher living costs, offer ₹31,200 per month (comprising ₹24,000 basic stipend plus 30% HRA of ₹7,200). Y City locations including Dehradun and Gangtok provide ₹28,800 monthly (₹24,000 basic plus 20% HRA of ₹4,800), while Z City locations such as Shillong and Itanagar offer ₹26,400 per month (₹24,000 basic plus 10% HRA of ₹2,400). This city-wise variation acknowledges cost-of-living differences but also means candidates should factor in their actual expenses when choosing preferred locations, as higher nominal salary in Noida may not translate to higher purchasing power compared to lower-cost Shillong or Itanagar. The JPF contract initially runs for 2 years, but successful performers can be converted to Senior Project Fellow (SPF) status for an additional 1 year with increased emoluments as per MoEF&CC and NMHS guidelines, though the exact SPF salary increment is not specified. This progression pathway provides some career growth within the project duration, rewarding good performance with both enhanced designation and improved compensation. Field Attendants receive a consolidated monthly salary of ₹14,475 regardless of posting location, which is notably lower than JPF emoluments reflecting the difference in educational qualifications and responsibilities. The FA contract period is 3 years, providing longer job security compared to the JPF's 2-year initial tenure. Importantly, these are consolidated amounts meaning they include all allowances and no separate DA, TA, or medical allowances are payable. Candidates should carefully budget as these emoluments must cover accommodation, food, local transportation, and personal expenses, especially in remote areas where living costs might be unexpectedly high due to limited supply chains.

About Syllabus and Interview Topics for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Syllabus and Interview Topics for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026, while not explicitly detailed in the notification as a structured syllabus, can be inferred from the project objectives, job responsibilities, and desirable qualifications mentioned throughout the document. Since there is no written examination and selection is based entirely on interviews, candidates should prepare comprehensively across multiple botanical disciplines rather than focusing narrowly on examination-style questions. Plant Taxonomy and Identification will be a core assessment area, particularly knowledge of Himalayan flora families, genera, and species, the ability to use dichotomous keys for plant identification, understanding of botanical nomenclature following ICN (International Code of Nomenclature), and familiarity with endemic and IUCN Red-listed species of the Himalayan region. Field Survey Methodology is equally critical, covering topics such as quadrat and transect survey techniques, sampling strategies for representative data collection, proper use of GPS devices and coordinate recording, documentation standards for field observations, and safety protocols for working in challenging terrains. Seed Science forms a specialized focus area given the project's name and objectives, requiring candidates to understand optimal seed collection timing for different species, post-harvest seed processing including cleaning and drying, long-term seed storage protocols including cryopreservation concepts, viability testing methods such as tetrazolium tests, and germination protocol design for diverse species. GIS and Database Management skills will be tested through questions about basic GIS software operations, creation of geo-referenced databases, spatial data visualization, and proficiency in MS Office applications particularly Excel for data entry and analysis, Word for report writing, and PowerPoint for presentations. For Field Attendant candidates, the interview will focus more on practical field skills, physical capability assessment, willingness to work under difficult conditions, and basic plant recognition abilities rather than advanced theoretical knowledge.

About Desirable Qualifications for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Desirable Qualifications for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 represent skills and experiences that, while not mandatory, significantly enhance a candidate's prospects of selection by demonstrating specialized readiness for the specific demands of Project Jeevan Beej. Candidates with documented experience in seed collection, processing, and storage techniques gain a substantial advantage because these skills require hands-on training that cannot be acquired through theoretical study alone, and experienced candidates can contribute immediately without requiring extensive on-ground training. Knowledge of plant taxonomy and identification, particularly of Himalayan flora, is listed as desirable but should be considered nearly essential for Junior Project Fellow roles, as taxonomic accuracy is fundamental to all subsequent project activities including database creation, publication, and conservation planning. Experience in GIS and database management has become indispensable in modern botanical research, and candidates proficient in software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or similar tools, combined with database management skills in MS Access or SQL, will be preferred during shortlisting. Knowledge of seed viability testing and germination protocols indicates candidates who understand seed biology beyond mere collection, including destructive testing methods, dormancy breaking techniques, and protocols for maintaining genetic diversity in ex-situ collections. Experience in herbarium techniques demonstrates familiarity with scientific specimen documentation standards, including proper pressing, mounting, labeling, and databasing of voucher specimens according to international herbarium practices. Proficiency in English across reading, writing, and speaking is marked as essential within desirable qualifications because scientific documentation, publication in peer-reviewed journals, and communication with the broader research community all require strong English language skills. Scientific writing skills are highly valued as candidates will need to prepare project reports, contribute to research papers, and document survey findings in formats suitable for both academic audiences and funding agencies.

Detailed Guide on Filling and Submitting Application for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Application Process for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 is conducted entirely through email submission, eliminating the need for physical application forms or courier services. Candidates must begin by visiting the official websites of either BSI (https://bsi.gov.in) or MoEF&CC (https://moef.gov.in) to download the prescribed application format known as Annexure-2. This format is specifically designed for the NMHS Project and contains all necessary fields for capturing candidate information. Once downloaded, candidates should fill the form completely using clear block letters to ensure legibility when printed or viewed digitally. Every field must be completed accurately without leaving blanks, as incomplete applications will be rejected during screening. An important unique instruction in this notification is to "strike out whichever post not applicable," meaning candidates applying for Junior Project Fellow should cross out the Field Attendant option on the form, and vice versa, clearly indicating their chosen position. After filling the form, candidates must gather all required documents as specified in the documents checklist and create self-attested photocopies of each. Self-attestation means candidates should sign across each photocopied page with the note "Self-Attested" or "True Copy," certifying that the copies match the originals. These documents must then be scanned and compiled into a single PDF file along with the filled application form. Modern PDF tools or scanner apps can merge multiple files into one consolidated PDF. The complete PDF (including filled form and all documents) should be emailed to nmhsseedbank_bgir@yahoo.com. Crucially, candidates must use the exact subject line specified: "Application for the post of JPF/FA under NMHS Project - Project Jeevan Beej" (replacing JPF or FA as applicable to your chosen post). Using a different subject line may cause automated filters to miss your application or result in misclassification. After sending, candidates should save a copy of the sent email with timestamp as proof of submission before the deadline. If shortlisted for interview, candidates must carry original documents along with a printed copy of the filled application form for verification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

When applying for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026, candidates frequently make avoidable errors that lead to application rejection or disadvantage during evaluation. The most common mistake is downloading and filling the wrong application format; candidates must ensure they use Annexure-2 specifically designed for this NMHS Project recruitment, not application formats from other BSI recruitments or general government job applications. Some candidates mistakenly apply for both JPF and FA positions by submitting two separate emails, thinking this increases their chances; however, the notification requires striking out one position, suggesting candidates should choose the post matching their qualifications and experience rather than applying for both. Filling the form with illegible handwriting or typing in fonts that appear unprofessional diminishes the application's impact; using neat block letters or a standard, professional font like Times New Roman or Arial in 11-12 point size is advisable. Many candidates create oversized PDF files by scanning documents at excessively high resolution, resulting in files too large to email successfully; scanning at 150-200 DPI in black-and-white mode produces sufficiently clear copies in manageable file sizes. The subject line error is surprisingly common, with candidates writing generic subjects like "Job Application" or adding personal appeals like "Please consider my application," which deviates from the prescribed subject line and may lead to automatic filtering out. Some applicants forget to self-attest every page of documents, which becomes problematic during verification as BSI may require confirmation that candidates themselves certified these copies. Emailing too close to the deadline is risky due to potential internet connectivity issues, email server delays, or last-minute discovery of missing documents; submitting at least 2-3 days before 25th February 2026 provides a safety buffer. Finally, candidates often neglect to keep backup copies of their submitted application and documents, making it difficult to prepare for interviews where bringing originals and duplicate copies is mandatory.

Understanding the Complete Selection Process for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Mode of Selection for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 follows a systematic, merit-based approach designed to identify candidates with the best combination of academic credentials, practical experience, and suitability for challenging field work in Himalayan regions. The process begins with Application Screening (Phase I), where a designated committee reviews all received applications to verify basic eligibility requirements including educational qualifications, age limits, experience criteria, and application completeness. Applications missing essential documents, failing to meet minimum eligibility, or submitted after the deadline are eliminated at this stage without further consideration. Phase II involves Shortlisting Based on Qualifications and Experience, which goes beyond mere eligibility verification to comparatively evaluate candidates. BSI will assess the quality of universities where candidates obtained degrees, grades achieved in qualifying examinations, relevance and extent of field survey experience, additional certifications in specialized areas like GIS or seed biology, publications in scientific journals, and possession of desirable qualifications mentioned in the notification. Since the number of applicants will likely far exceed the 12 available positions, only the most outstanding candidates will be shortlisted for interviews. Interview Call (Phase III) will be issued exclusively to shortlisted candidates through email or phone, specifying the interview date, time, mode (offline or online), and reporting instructions. Candidates must respond promptly to confirm their participation, as non-response may result in their candidature being withdrawn. The Personal Interview (Phase IV) forms the decisive selection stage where a panel of BSI experts evaluates candidates through technical questions on botany and field methodology, assessment of practical knowledge and problem-solving abilities, evaluation of communication skills and professional demeanor, verification of research experience claims through probing questions, and judgment of physical fitness and genuine willingness to work in difficult field conditions. Final Selection (Phase V) is based strictly on interview performance and merit, with the highest-scoring candidates selected for each position and location. Document Verification (Phase VI) occurs after provisional selection, where original certificates are physically verified against submitted copies, and any discrepancy leads to immediate disqualification.

Complete Documentation Requirements for BSI JPF & FA Recruitment 2026

The Documents Required for BSI Junior Project Fellow and Field Attendant Recruitment 2026 must be compiled meticulously both for email submission and for physical verification during interviews. The Filled Annexure-2 Application Form should include a recent passport-size photograph affixed in the designated space, with all fields completed in block letters without any overwriting or corrections. Educational Certificates encompass all degree certificates and mark sheets from 10th standard onwards up to the highest qualifying degree (M.Sc. for JPF, Bachelor's for FA), including all semester or yearly examination mark sheets without exception. Research Experience Documents are particularly important and should be detailed experience certificates on organizational letterheads clearly stating the exact nature of work performed, duration of experience (with start and end dates), skills acquired, and field survey activities undertaken. Generic experience letters stating only dates of employment without describing actual work will be considered insufficient. Date of Birth Proof should preferably be the 10th standard certificate issued by a recognized board, as this is universally accepted; birth certificates are acceptable but may require additional verification. Caste Certificates for candidates claiming SC/ST/OBC reservation must be in the prescribed Government of India format, issued by the competent revenue authority (typically Tehsildar or SDM), and should be recent (issued within the last year preferably). OBC candidates must ensure their certificate includes the non-creamy layer clause, as OBC certificates without this clause are invalid for reservation benefits. PwD Certificates must be issued under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 by authorized medical boards, clearly mentioning the percentage of disability and category. No Objection Certificate (NOC) is mandatory for candidates currently employed elsewhere, issued by their current employer on official letterhead, explicitly stating that the employer has no objection to the candidate applying for and potentially joining BSI if selected. List of Publications in NELUMBO Journal Style and copies of three best scientific publications apply mainly to Junior Project Fellow candidates with research backgrounds; while not mandatory, submitting high-quality publications significantly strengthens candidature during shortlisting.

Beyond the standard recruitment details, the BSI Project Jeevan Beej notification contains several crucial points that candidates must thoroughly understand before proceeding with their application:

Project-Based Nature and Career Implications

All positions advertised under this BSI recruitment are fundamentally project-based and contractual, which has significant implications for long-term career planning. The Junior Project Fellow positions are initially offered for a 2-year contract period, with the possibility of conversion to Senior Project Fellow (SPF) status for an additional 1 year if performance is satisfactory. Field Attendant positions come with a 3-year contract duration. However, the notification explicitly states that these positions are "co-terminus with the project," meaning employment automatically ends when Project Jeevan Beej concludes or if funding is discontinued, regardless of individual performance. More critically, the notification clearly warns that selected candidates will have "no claim for appointment on regular basis" in BSI or any other government organization. This means that even after completing the full contract period successfully, there is no automatic or preferential pathway to permanent government employment. Candidates should view these positions primarily as opportunities to gain valuable research experience, develop specialized skills in botanical field surveys and seed banking, build professional networks within the scientific community, contribute to meaningful conservation work, and strengthen their CVs for future academic or research positions. The experience gained through Project Jeevan Beej will be particularly valuable for candidates planning to pursue doctoral research, apply for permanent scientific positions in research institutions, or transition into environmental NGOs and conservation organizations. However, those seeking immediate job security and permanent government employment should carefully consider whether accepting a 2-3 year contract position aligns with their personal and professional goals.

Specific Project Objectives and Work Environment

Understanding Project Jeevan Beej's core objectives helps candidates appreciate the nature of work they will undertake if selected. The project aims to systematically conserve endemic and IUCN Red-listed plant species across the entire Himalayan region, develop a comprehensive geo-referenced Seed Atlas documenting seed collection locations and ecological data, integrate traditional community seed banks with modern scientific seed banking infrastructure, facilitate ecological restoration of degraded habitats using native species, empower local communities and particularly women's groups through training in seed collection and storage, and ensure long-term food and nutritional security by conserving wild crop relatives and traditional varieties. These ambitious objectives translate into demanding daily work responsibilities. Field surveys will require traveling to remote villages, high-altitude meadows, dense forests, and inaccessible valleys, often spending weeks away from base stations. Candidates must coordinate with local forest departments, community leaders, and traditional knowledge holders to identify endemic species and sacred groves. The work involves not just collecting seeds but also recording extensive ecological data including GPS coordinates, altitude, soil type, associated species, habitat characteristics, and photographic documentation. Back at regional centers, candidates will process collected seeds following scientific protocols, test seed viability, enter comprehensive data into databases, maintain herbarium voucher specimens, prepare quarterly progress reports, and potentially contribute to scientific publications. The mention of training programs in the project objectives suggests that JPFs will also be responsible for conducting capacity-building workshops for local communities, forest department staff, and other stakeholders.

Operational Flexibility and Candidate Obligations

The BSI notification grants the institution substantial operational flexibility that directly impacts selected candidates' working conditions and job security. The Director of BSI explicitly reserves the right to transfer selected candidates to any BSI institute or regional center across India, meaning a candidate initially posted in Gangtok could be transferred to Shillong, Itanagar, or any other location based on project requirements. Such transfers may occur with relatively short notice and candidates would be expected to relocate promptly. The notification also includes a provision allowing termination of contract "without notice" if a candidate's performance is deemed unsatisfactory or their conduct is considered detrimental to project objectives. This clause emphasizes that merely completing assigned tasks is insufficient; candidates must maintain high performance standards, professional behavior, and positive working relationships throughout their tenure. The requirement to sign a Non-Disclosure Undertaking (NDU) is particularly important for candidates to understand. Research projects involving endemic species, their locations, and collection methodologies often generate sensitive information that could be misused by bio-pirates or commercial entities seeking to exploit genetic resources. The NDU legally binds candidates to maintain confidentiality about specific collection sites, unpublished research findings, proprietary seed processing techniques, and community knowledge shared during surveys. Violating this undertaking could result not only in termination but potentially legal consequences. Candidates should also note that no TA/DA is provided for attending interviews, meaning all costs of traveling to Noida for the interview must be borne by applicants themselves.

Practical Application and Documentation Nuances

Successfully navigating the BSI application process requires attention to several easily overlooked but critical details. The absence of an online application portal means candidates must manage the entire process manually, from downloading the correct form to creating a properly compiled PDF and emailing it with the precise subject line. Experience certificates must be detailed and specific, clearly stating the nature of field surveys conducted, plant species worked with, methodologies employed, and skills acquired. Generic certificates merely confirming employment dates without describing actual work responsibilities will be deemed insufficient during evaluation. For candidates claiming reservation benefits, category certificates must be in the prescribed Government of India format and issued by specifically authorized authorities - certificates in incorrect formats or from unauthorized bodies will be rejected outright. The stipulation that currently employed candidates must submit a No Objection Certificate adds complexity, as some employers may be reluctant to provide such documents. Candidates should approach their current organizations diplomatically, explaining the temporary, research-focused nature of the opportunity. The requirement to bring original documents and self-attested copies to the interview necessitates careful document management, as losing original degree certificates or experience letters during travel to interview locations could jeopardize candidature even after successful interview performance. Candidates should consider carrying multiple sets of photocopies and keeping digital scans as backup. The notification's warning that "late comers for interview will not be entertained under any circumstances" should be taken seriously - candidates must plan travel accounting for potential delays, arriving in Noida at least one day before the interview if traveling from distant locations. Finally, candidates should understand that the Director of BSI reserves the right to decrease the number of posts or cancel the entire recruitment advertisement without providing reasons, meaning selection is not guaranteed even for the most qualified candidates if organizational priorities change.