Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Group D Recruitment 2026 for 675 Posts, Apply Online
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026: 675 Group D Forest Observer Posts Across 11 Circles
KFD Forest Observer Bharti 2026 — SSLC (Class 10) Required — Apply Online at aranya.gov.in
The Karnataka Forest Department, Office of the Chief Conservator of Forests and Selection Authority, has released recruitment notification for 675 Forest Observer (Group D) vacancies across 11 Forest Circles in Karnataka. Online applications are accepted from to (23:59:59) through the official website aranya.gov.in. Fee payment can be completed until .
Candidates aged 18 to 30 years holding SSLC (Class 10) or equivalent qualification from a recognised board (CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, other state boards, KOS) can apply for this Group D post. The selection is based on a merit list prepared from SSLC marks (no written exam), followed by Physical Standard Test, Physical Endurance Test, and Physical Efficiency Test. The post carries a pay scale of Rs. 29,600 – 52,800 as per Karnataka Civil Services pay structure.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Authority | Karnataka Forest Department, Office of the Chief Conservator of Forests & Selection Authority |
| Post Name | Forest Observer (Group D) |
| Total Vacancies | 675 |
| Application Start Date | |
| Application Last Date | (23:59:59) |
| Fee Payment Last Date | |
| Notification Date | |
| Application Mode | Online only — aranya.gov.in |
| Age Limit | 18–30 Years (General), relaxable per category up to 33 years (as on 20 July 2026) |
| Qualification | SSLC (Class 10) or equivalent from a recognised board (CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, other state boards, KOS) |
| Pay Scale | Rs. 29,600 – 52,800 (Karnataka Civil Services Pay Scale) |
| Job Location | Karnataka (11 Forest Circles) |
| Selection Process | Merit List (SSLC Marks) + Physical Standard Test + Physical Endurance Test + Physical Efficiency Test — No Written Exam |
| Official Website | aranya.gov.in |
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Important Dates and Application Fee
Online Registration: 1 August to 31 August 2026 — Fee Rs. 200 (General Male) / Rs. 50 (SC/ST Cat-I Female)
The online application process for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 opens on and closes on at 23:59:59. The fee payment deadline is . Candidates must complete the application and fee payment before the respective deadlines through aranya.gov.in.
Important Dates
Notification Released: — Online Application Starts: — Last Date to Apply Online: (23:59:59) — Fee Payment Last Date:
Tip: Candidates are advised to apply well before the last date to avoid technical issues on the portal. Keep scanned copies of photograph, signature, SSLC marks card, and category certificates ready before starting the application. No corrections are allowed after final submission.
Application Fee
The application fee varies by category and gender. General/2A/2B/3A/3B category male candidates pay Rs. 200, while General/2A/2B/3A/3B female and third gender candidates pay Rs. 100. SC/ST/Category-I male candidates pay Rs. 100, and SC/ST/Category-I female and third gender candidates pay Rs. 50. PwBD candidates are exempted from fee payment.
| Category | Male Fee | Female / Third Gender Fee |
|---|---|---|
| General / 2A / 2B / 3A / 3B | Rs. 200 | Rs. 100 |
| SC / ST / Category-I | Rs. 100 | Rs. 50 |
| PwBD (All Categories) | Nil | |
Payment can be made online through UPI, NEFT, Credit Card, Debit Card, or Internet Banking. Alternatively, candidates can pay via cash challan at designated branches of State Bank of India (SBI), Canara Bank, Union Bank of India, or Central Bank of India.
Note: Application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances. Payment accepted through online modes (UPI, NEFT, Credit Card, Debit Card, Internet Banking) or cash challan at designated bank branches.
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Vacancy Details and Eligibility
675 Forest Observer Posts Across 11 Forest Circles — SSLC (Class 10) Required
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 covers 675 vacancies distributed across 11 Forest Circles. The highest vacancy is in Chamarajanagar Circle (159), followed by Mysore Circle (121) and Bangalore Circle (82). SSLC (Class 10) or equivalent from a recognised board is the minimum educational qualification.
Circle-Wise Vacancy Distribution
| Circle | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Shimoga Circle | 44 |
| Bangalore Circle | 82 |
| Chamarajanagar Circle | 159 |
| Bellary Circle | 64 |
| Mysore Circle | 121 |
| Belgaum Circle | 42 |
| Kalaburgi Circle | 06 |
| Chikkamagaluru Circle | 60 |
| Hassan Circle | 31 |
| Mangalore Circle | 54 |
| Dharwad Circle | 12 |
| Total | 675 |
Educational Qualification
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Qualification | SSLC (Class 10) or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Accepted Boards | CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, other state boards, Karnataka Open School (KOS) |
| Completion Date | Must be fully completed on or before the date of submitting the online application |
| Merit Basis | Category-wise merit list based on SSLC marks (percentage of marks secured in SSLC or equivalent) |
Age Limit (as on 20 July 2026)
| Category | Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | 18 years | 30 years |
| Category 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B | 18 years | 32 years |
| SC, ST, Category-I | 18 years | 33 years |
Tip: One-time additional 5-year relaxation for all categories applies for notifications issued up to 31 December 2027, as per GO dated 29 January 2026. This relaxation is applicable for this recruitment.
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Selection Process and Physical Standards
No Written Exam — Merit List Based on SSLC Marks + Physical Tests
Selection for Forest Observer posts is based on a merit list prepared from SSLC (Class 10) marks. There is no written examination. Candidates shortlisted from the merit list will undergo Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), and Physical Efficiency Test (PET) before final selection.
Selection Stages
| Stage | Description | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I | Merit List — Category-wise, based on SSLC marks (percentage of marks secured) | Merit-based |
| Stage II | Shortlisting in ratio of 1:20 (posts to candidates) for Physical Tests | Merit-based |
| Stage III | Physical Standard Test (PST) — Height, chest (male), height/weight (female) | Qualifying |
| Stage IV | Physical Endurance Test (PET) and Physical Efficiency Test | Qualifying |
| Stage V | Final Selection List — Category-wise in ratio 1:1 (post to candidate) | Merit-based |
Physical Standards — Male Candidates
| Parameter | General Candidates | Forest Dwelling ST Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 163 cm | 152 cm |
| Chest (Normal) | 79 cm | 74 cm |
| Chest Expansion | 5 cm | 5 cm |
Physical Standards — Female Candidates
| Parameter | General Candidates | Forest Dwelling ST Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 150 cm | 145 cm |
| Weight | 40 kg | 38 kg |
Physical Defects Disqualifying Candidates
Candidates with the following physical defects will be disqualified: knock-knees, bow legs, flat feet, varicose veins, speech impediment, hearing impediment, hydrocele (male candidates), defective vision, colour blindness, and night blindness.
Age Relaxation
- Category 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B: Up to 32 years (2 years relaxation above General upper age)
- SC, ST, Category-I: Up to 33 years (3 years relaxation above General upper age)
- One-time Additional Relaxation: 5 years relaxation for all categories for notifications up to 31 December 2027 (GO dated 29 January 2026)
- Ex-Servicemen: Category maximum age + years of service rendered + 3 years
- Existing Forest Observers (5+ years service): General 40 years, 2A/2B/3A/3B 42 years, SC/ST/Cat-I 43 years
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Job Profile and Salary
Pay Scale Rs. 29,600 – 52,800 — Karnataka Civil Services Pay Structure — Group D Post
Selected candidates will be appointed as Forest Observer (Group D) in the Karnataka Forest Department across 11 Forest Circles. The post carries a pay scale as per Karnataka Civil Services pay structure with a starting basic pay of Rs. 29,600 per month, progressing through defined increments to a maximum of Rs. 52,800.
Job Profile and Responsibilities
Forest Observers are responsible for monitoring and guarding forest areas, preventing encroachment, forest fires, illegal felling, and poaching. Key duties include patrolling assigned forest ranges, maintaining daily movement registers, reporting forest offences, assisting in fire prevention and control measures, supporting wildlife conservation efforts, and coordinating with forest officers on ground-level operations.
Salary Details
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Pay Scale | Rs. 29,600 – 725 – 32,500 – 800 – 35,700 – 900 – 39,300 – 1,000 – 43,300 – 1,125 – 47,800 – 1,250 – 52,800 |
| Starting Basic Pay | Rs. 29,600 per month |
| Maximum Basic Pay | Rs. 52,800 per month |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) | As per Karnataka Government rules (revised periodically) |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) | As per posting city classification (X: 27%, Y: 18%, Z: 9%) |
| Transport Allowance (TA) | As per applicable rules |
| Approximate In-Hand Salary | Rs. 32,000 – 40,000+ (depending on posting location and allowances) |
| Pension | Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) |
| Job Location | Karnataka (11 Forest Circles) |
Benefits and Allowances
- Dearness Allowance (DA) as per Karnataka Government rules
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) based on posting location
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- National Pension System (NPS) / Contributory Pension Scheme
- Group Insurance
- Medical facilities as per Karnataka Government rules
- Leave Travel Concession (LTC)
- Gratuity and retirement benefits
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — How to Apply
Apply Online at aranya.gov.in — 1 August to 31 August 2026 — No Written Exam
The application process is entirely online through the Karnataka Forest Department portal at aranya.gov.in. Candidates must complete registration, fill personal and educational details, upload required documents, and pay the application fee online or via cash challan before (23:59:59). No applications will be accepted by post, courier, or email.
How to Apply — Online Application Steps
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Visit the official Karnataka Forest Department website aranya.gov.in |
| Step 2 | Navigate to the "Recruitment" section on the homepage |
| Step 3 | Read the Karnataka Forest Department Services (Recruitment) (Amendment) Rules, 2019 carefully before starting the form |
| Step 4 | Register and fill the online application with personal, educational, and category details. Use your own Aadhaar (UID) number — using another person's Aadhaar leads to rejection and 10-year debarment |
| Step 5 | Upload required certificates and documents in the prescribed format as specified on the online portal |
| Step 6 | Pay the application fee online through UPI, NEFT, Credit Card, Debit Card, or Internet Banking. Alternatively, generate a cash challan and pay at designated branches of SBI, Canara Bank, Union Bank, or Central Bank |
| Step 7 | Review all details carefully — no corrections are allowed after final submission |
| Step 8 | Submit the application and save/print the confirmation page for future reference |
Important Instructions
- Must use your own Aadhaar (UID) number — using another's Aadhaar leads to rejection plus 10-year debarment from future recruitments
- Uploaded certificates cannot be changed at any stage of the recruitment process
- Dismissed government employees are not eligible to apply
- Submission of fake documents or impersonation leads to cancellation of candidature, criminal proceedings, and 10-year debarment
- Selected candidates will be covered under the Contributory Pension Scheme
- Legal disputes fall under the jurisdiction of the Karnataka State Administrative Tribunal
- Keep mobile number and email address active until the recruitment process is complete
- Applications submitted by post, courier, or email will not be accepted
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Selection Mode and Documents Required
Merit List (SSLC Marks) + Physical Standard Test + Physical Endurance Test + Physical Efficiency Test
Selection for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 is purely based on merit from SSLC marks. There is no written examination. Shortlisted candidates will be called for Physical Standard Test, Physical Endurance Test, and Physical Efficiency Test in the ratio of 1:20 (posts to candidates). Final selection will be made in the ratio of 1:1 (post to candidate).
Mode of Selection
| Stage | Description | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Stage I | Category-wise Merit List based on SSLC marks | Merit-based |
| Stage II | Physical Standard Test (PST) — Height, chest, weight | Qualifying |
| Stage III | Physical Endurance Test (PET) | Qualifying |
| Stage IV | Physical Efficiency Test | Qualifying |
| Stage V | Document Verification and Final Selection | Merit-based |
Documents Required
| Educational Documents | |
| SSLC / Class 10 Marks Card | Original and photocopy — proof of age, qualification, and marks for merit list |
| SSLC / Class 10 Passing Certificate | Original and photocopy |
| Category / Caste Documents | |
| Caste Certificate (SC/ST) | From competent authority, if applicable |
| OBC Certificate (2A/2B/3A/3B) | Must mention "Non-Creamy Layer" status if applicable |
| Category-I Certificate | From competent authority, if applicable |
| Community Certificate with Photograph | Required if claiming Local Forest Dwelling ST reservation |
| Identity and Address Proof | |
| Aadhaar Card | Mandatory — must use own Aadhaar number |
| Other Certificates | As specified on the online portal during application |
Disqualification Criteria
| Grounds for Disqualification |
|---|
| Using another person's Aadhaar (UID) number — rejection plus 10-year debarment |
| Submission of fake documents or impersonation — cancellation, criminal proceedings, 10-year debarment |
| Dismissed government employees are not eligible |
| Physical defects: knock-knees, bow legs, flat feet, varicose veins, speech/hearing impediment, hydrocele, defective vision, colour blindness, night blindness |
| Applications submitted by post, courier, or email |
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Important Links and Follow Us
Official Recruitment Links
| Link | Status | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Official Notification PDF | Available | Download PDF |
| Apply Online | Active from | aranya.gov.in |
| Official Website | Active | aranya.gov.in |
Join Our Job Community
| Platform | Action |
|---|---|
| Telegram Channel | Join Channel |
| Facebook Page | Follow Page |
| Twitter / X | Follow Updates |
| Blogs | Visit Blog |
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 — Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the last date to apply for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
The last date for submission of online applications for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 is at 23:59:59. The application window opens on . Fee payment can be completed until .
Q2. How many vacancies are there in Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
There are 675 Forest Observer (Group D) vacancies distributed across 11 Forest Circles in Karnataka. The highest vacancy is in Chamarajanagar Circle (159), followed by Mysore Circle (121) and Bangalore Circle (82).
Q3. What is the qualification for Karnataka Forest Observer Group D post?
The minimum educational qualification is SSLC (Class 10) or equivalent from a recognised board (CBSE, ICSE, NIOS, other state boards, or Karnataka Open School). The qualification must be completed on or before the date of submitting the online application.
Q4. Is there a written exam for Karnataka Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
No, there is no written examination. Selection is purely based on a merit list prepared from SSLC (Class 10) marks. Shortlisted candidates will undergo Physical Standard Test, Physical Endurance Test, and Physical Efficiency Test before final selection.
Q5. What is the salary of a Karnataka Forest Observer?
The pay scale is Rs. 29,600 – 52,800 as per Karnataka Civil Services pay structure. The starting basic pay is Rs. 29,600 per month. Additional allowances include Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, and Transport Allowance. Approximate in-hand salary is Rs. 32,000 – 40,000+ depending on posting location.
Q6. What is the age limit for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
The age limit as on is: General — 18 to 30 years, Category 2A/2B/3A/3B — up to 32 years, SC/ST/Category-I — up to 33 years. A one-time additional 5-year relaxation applies for all categories for notifications up to 31 December 2027.
Q7. What is the application fee for Karnataka Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
General/2A/2B/3A/3B male candidates: Rs. 200. General/2A/2B/3A/3B female/third gender: Rs. 100. SC/ST/Category-I male: Rs. 100. SC/ST/Category-I female/third gender: Rs. 50. PwBD candidates are exempted from fee payment.
Q8. How can I apply for Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
Apply online at aranya.gov.in from to . Register, fill personal and educational details, upload documents, and pay the fee online or via cash challan. No applications accepted by post or email.
Q9. What physical standards are required for Karnataka Forest Observer post?
Male: Height 163 cm (General), 152 cm (Forest Dwelling ST); Chest 79 cm normal (General), 74 cm (Forest Dwelling ST) with 5 cm expansion. Female: Height 150 cm (General), 145 cm (Forest Dwelling ST); Weight 40 kg (General), 38 kg (Forest Dwelling ST).
Q10. Can candidates from other states apply for Karnataka Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?
The notification is for Karnataka Forest Department recruitment. Candidates should refer to the official notification at aranya.gov.in for domicile and eligibility conditions. The merit list is prepared category-wise based on SSLC marks, and physical tests are mandatory for shortlisted candidates.
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