MPESB Combined Forest and Jail Bharti 2026 (1679 Vacancies)
Summary of Post MPESB Recruitment 2026
MPESB Recruitment 2026 – Overview
Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) has announced 1679 executive vacancies for Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari and Assistant Jail Superintendent posts. For candidates from Gujarat seeking stable government service in uniformed departments, this recruitment offers a strong opportunity in security and field operations. The selection will be conducted through a computer-based examination followed by physical and document verification as applicable.
Eligibility, Selection Process & Key Highlights
Candidates must have passed 10th standard for Forest Guard, Field Guard and Jail Prahari posts, while Assistant Jail Superintendent requires a graduate degree. The selection process includes a CBT exam, physical standards test and medical verification. The pay scale ranges from ₹19,500–62,000 (Level 4) and ₹36,200–1,14,800 (Level 9). With structured promotion and government benefits, eligible aspirants should apply within the application window.
| Date | 27 February 2026 |
| Advertisement No | Not Applicable |
| Recruitment Authority | Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) |
| Post Name | Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent |
| Total Vacancies | 1679 Posts (Forest Guard: 728, Field Guard: 169, Jail Prahari: 757, Assistant Jail Superintendent: 25) |
| Online Application Start | 28 February 2026 |
| Online Application End | 14 March 2026 |
MPESB Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent – Important Dates & Fees
Important Dates
| Notification Release Date | 27 February 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 28 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 14 March 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 14 March 2026 |
| Correction Window | 28 February 2026 to 19 March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | To be notified |
| Examination Date | From 07 April 2026 |
Application Fees
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹500 per paper (MP domicile for reserved concession) |
| SC / ST / PwBD | ₹250 per paper (MP domicile only) |
| Mode of Payment | Online via MP Online Portal (Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking) |
| Fee Refund Policy | Non-refundable under any circumstances |
Explanation: Important Dates and Application Fees – MPESB Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Important Dates of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The application window opens on 28 February 2026 and closes on 14 March 2026. Candidates should complete registration early through the official MP Online portal to avoid last-minute server issues. The correction facility is available until 19 March 2026, and the examination is scheduled from 07 April 2026. Timely submission ensures smooth participation in the recruitment process.
About Application Fees of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The registration fee is ₹500 for General category candidates and ₹250 for SC, ST, OBC, EWS and PwBD candidates who are MP residents. The fee is strictly non-refundable. If a transaction fails, candidates must verify payment status before reattempting to avoid double payment. Always download and keep the payment receipt for future reference and verification.
Vacancy Details and Eligibility Criteria – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Vacancy Details
| Name of Post | Number of Posts |
| Van Rakshak (Forest Guard) | 728 |
| Kshetra Rakshak (Field Guard) | 169 |
| Jail Prahari (Jail Guard) | 757 |
| Assistant Jail Superintendent | 25 |
| Total Vacancies | 1679 |
Eligibility Criteria
| Post Name | Eligibility Criteria |
| Forest Guard / Field Guard |
Education: 10th Pass from recognized board Age Limit: 18 to 33 years (UR Male) Relaxation: Up to 38 years for reserved categories Other: MP Employment Registration & Aadhaar mandatory |
| Jail Prahari |
Education: 10th Pass from recognized board Age Limit: 18 to 33 years (UR Male) Physical Standards: As per department norms Domicile: MP Employment Exchange registration required |
| Assistant Jail Superintendent |
Education: Graduate Degree from recognized university Age Limit: 18 to 33 years (UR Male) Relaxation: Up to 38 years for SC/ST/OBC/Female Physical & Medical Fitness required |
Explanation: Vacancy Details and Eligibility Criteria – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Vacancy Details of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The total seats announced are 1679, which makes this one of the major uniformed recruitments of 2026. Jail Prahari carries the highest number of vacancies, increasing competition among 10th pass candidates. The reservation system divides seats among UR, OBC, SC, ST and EWS categories as per state norms. Candidates must apply carefully under the correct category to avoid cancellation during document verification.
About Eligibility Criteria of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The Forest Guard qualification and Jail Prahari qualification require a 10th pass certificate from a recognized board under the 10+2 system. For Assistant Jail Superintendent, a graduate degree from a recognized university is mandatory. The age limit for MPESB ranges from 18 to 33 years for UR males, with relaxation up to 38 years for reserved categories. Age is calculated as per the official cut-off date mentioned in the notification.
Category Wise Posts and Exam Pattern – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Category Wise Posts
| Category | No. of Posts |
| UR | 815 |
| EWS | 124 |
| OBC | 450 |
| SC | 154 |
| ST | 136 |
| Total | 1679 Posts |
Exam Pattern
| Stage | Details |
| Stage I | Computer Based Test (100 Questions, 100 Marks, Negative Marking -0.25) |
| Stage II | Physical Standard Test (Height, Chest Measurement) |
| Stage III | Physical Efficiency Test (Walk/Run/Shot Put as per post) |
| Stage IV | Document Verification & Medical Examination |
Explanation: Category Wise Posts and Exam Pattern – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Category Wise Posts of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The category-wise distribution ensures fair opportunity under state reservation policy. Candidates must possess valid caste, Non-Creamy Layer or EWS certificates issued by competent authorities. Applying under the wrong category may lead to rejection during verification. Since cut-off marks vary by category, understanding the total seats and reservation breakup helps candidates estimate competition levels more accurately.
About Exam Pattern of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The written examination is merit-based and includes negative marking, so accuracy is important. Physical tests are qualifying in nature but mandatory. Candidates should focus first on scoring high in CBT and then prepare for endurance-based physical standards. Proper strategy, time management and understanding the syllabus pattern are key to clearing all stages successfully.
Category Wise Posts and Age Relaxation – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Category Wise Posts
| Category | Forest Guard | Field Guard | Jail Prahari | Assistant Jail Superintendent | Total |
| UR | 310 | 44 | 253 | 8 | 615 |
| EWS | 77 | 17 | 28 | 2 | 124 |
| OBC | 198 | 46 | 204 | 2 | 450 |
| SC | 0 | 28 | 121 | 5 | 154 |
| ST | 143 | 34 | 151 | 8 | 336 |
| Total | 728 | 169 | 757 | 25 | 1679 |
Note: Scroll horizontally to view all post categories →
Category Wise Age Relaxation
| Category | Age Relaxation | Maximum Age |
| UR / EWS | No additional relaxation | 33 Years (Male) |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 5 Years | 38 Years |
| SC / ST (State Domicile) | 5 Years | 38 Years |
| PwBD (Divyang) - UR | As per MP Govt Rules | Not Applicable |
| PwBD (Divyang) - SC/ST/OBC | As per MP Govt Rules | Not Applicable |
| Ex-Servicemen | Service Period + 3 Years Deduction Formula | As per Rulebook |
Explanation: Category Wise Posts and Age Relaxation – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Category Wise Posts Distribution of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The post-wise category matrix helps candidates understand exact seat distribution across UR, EWS, OBC, SC and ST categories. Valid caste and Non-Creamy Layer certificates are mandatory for reservation benefits. Since cut-offs differ category-wise, applying under the correct category is essential. Total seats are distributed department-wise and reservation norms directly impact final merit preparation.
About Category Wise Age Relaxation of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The age limit for MPESB is calculated as per the official cut-off date. Reserved categories receive relaxation up to 5 years. Ex-servicemen benefit from a special age deduction formula based on service duration. Candidates must ensure they meet the age criteria before applying, as incorrect age claims lead to rejection during document verification.
Physical Eligibility Criteria and Salary – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Physical Eligibility Criteria
| Physical Standard | Requirement |
| Male Height (Forest Guard) | 163 cm (ST: 152 cm) |
| Male Height (Jail Prahari) | 165 cm |
| Male Height (Assistant Jail Superintendent) | 168 cm |
| Female Height (Forest Guard) | 150 cm (ST: 145 cm) |
| Female Height (Jail Prahari) | 158 cm |
| Female Height (Assistant Jail Superintendent) | 155 cm |
| Chest (Male Forest Guard) | 79 cm + 5 cm Expansion |
| Chest (Male Jail Prahari) | 83 cm Minimum |
| Forest Walk Test (Male) | 25 Km in 4 Hours |
| Forest Walk Test (Female) | 14 Km in 4 Hours |
| Jail Prahari 800m Run | 2 Min 50 Sec (Male) / 4 Min (Female) |
Salary Details
| Pay Level / Type | 7th Pay Commission (MP Govt Pay Matrix) |
| Fixed Pay / Pay Scale | Forest/Field Guard & Jail Prahari: ₹19,500 – ₹62,000 (Level 4) Assistant Jail Superintendent: ₹36,200 – ₹1,14,800 (Level 9) |
| Allowances | DA, HRA, Medical Benefits, Uniform Allowance (as applicable) |
| Job Location | Madhya Pradesh (District Cadre / State Cadre) |
Explanation: Physical Eligibility Criteria and Salary – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Physical Eligibility Criteria of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The physical standards are mandatory and strictly verified during the Physical Standard Test and Physical Efficiency Test. Candidates should measure height and chest at a certified medical center before applying to avoid rejection. Endurance tests like the 25 km walk and 800 meter run require advance practice. Medical examination is the final stage, where overall fitness and biometric verification are conducted.
About Salary of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The salary is based on the 7th Pay Commission matrix, ensuring long-term financial stability. Initial in-hand salary may vary after deductions like PF and tax, but gross pay includes DA and other allowances. Level 4 posts offer steady increments and promotion scope, while Level 9 provides higher supervisory pay. Government service benefits such as pension scheme and annual increments add strong career growth.
Syllabus and How to Fill Application Form – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Syllabus
| Subject | Topics Covered |
| General Knowledge | History, Geography of MP, Rivers, National Parks, Current Affairs |
| General Hindi | Grammar, Sandhi, Samas, Idioms, Synonyms, Antonyms |
| General English | Error Detection, Synonyms, Antonyms, Sentence Correction, Voice |
| Mathematics | Percentage, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Simplification, Data Interpretation |
| General Science | Physics, Chemistry, Biology Basics, Human Body, Motion Laws |
How to Fill Application Form
| Step 1: Visit official MP Online portal. |
| Step 2: Complete Candidate Profile Registration using Aadhaar verification. |
| Step 3: Enter educational details and select preferred post. |
| Step 4: Upload photo, signature and required documents as per size guidelines. |
| Step 5: Pay application fee through online payment gateway. |
| Step 6: Verify all details carefully before final submission. |
| Step 7: Download and print application form and fee receipt. |
Explanation: Syllabus and How to Fill Application Form – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Syllabus of MPESB Recruitment 2026
The syllabus is based on 10th and graduate level standards. General Knowledge and Mathematics are scoring if practiced regularly. English and Hindi grammar require consistent revision. Negative marking makes accuracy important. Physical tests are qualifying but essential. Candidates should prepare topic-wise and practice mock tests to improve speed and confidence before the examination.
About How to Fill Application Form for MPESB Recruitment 2026
Applicants should use an active mobile number and email during registration. Upload clear photographs as per prescribed size to avoid rejection. Double-check category, date of birth and educational details before final submission. Keep a printed copy of the form and payment receipt for document verification. Avoid last-day submission to prevent server or transaction issues.
Mode of Selection and Documents Required – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
Mode of Selection
| Stage I | Computer Based Test (CBT) – 100 Marks with Negative Marking (-0.25) |
| Stage II | Physical Standard Test (Height, Chest Measurement) |
| Stage III | Physical Efficiency Test (Walk / Run / Shot Put as per post) |
| Stage IV | Document Verification |
| Stage V | Medical Examination |
| Final Selection | Based on Merit and Document Verification |
Documents Required
| 10th Marksheet & Certificate (Date of Birth Proof) |
| Graduate Degree Certificate (For Assistant Jail Superintendent) |
| Aadhaar Card / VID |
| MP Employment Exchange Registration Certificate |
| Caste Certificate (SC/ST/OBC – MP Format) |
| OBC Non-Creamy Layer Certificate (Valid) |
| EWS Certificate (Valid for FY 2026) |
| Domicile Certificate (MP Resident) |
| Income Certificate (If Applicable) |
| No Objection Certificate (For Govt Employees) |
| Ex-Servicemen Certificate (If Applicable) |
| Recent Passport Size Photographs |
Explanation: Selection Process and Document Verification – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari & Assistant Jail Superintendent Recruitment 2026
About Mode of Selection for MPESB Recruitment 2026
The selection begins with a merit-based CBT where normalization is applied to maintain fairness across multiple shifts. Only candidates clearing the written cut-off proceed to physical tests. Physical standards are qualifying but mandatory. Final merit is prepared based on normalized CBT marks and successful document verification. Candidates must stay mentally prepared for multiple elimination stages.
About Documents Required for MPESB Recruitment 2026
Original documents must match uploaded details exactly. Any mismatch in name spelling between Aadhaar and marksheets may lead to rejection. OBC Non-Creamy Layer and EWS certificates must be valid as per the financial year guidelines. Carry both originals and photocopies during verification. Incorrect or expired certificates can result in cancellation of candidature at the final stage.
Important Links & Follow Us
Official Recruitment Links
| Download Notification | Click Here |
| MPESB Official Website | esb.mp.gov.in |
| Online Form Portal | Apply Online |
| Result Dashboard | Check Here |
| MPESB Official Home | https://esb.mp.gov.in/ |
| Online Form Portal | https://iforms.mponline.gov.in/ |
| Result Dashboard | https://esb.mp.gov.in/results/results_n.htm |
| Helpline Toll-Free | 1800-233-7899 |
| Board Email | complaint.esb@mp.gov.in |
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Additional Information & Important Notes
Beyond the standard recruitment details, the Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) notification contains several crucial points that candidates must thoroughly understand before proceeding with their application:
Career Implications and Long-Term Service Benefits
The posts under MPESB Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari and Assistant Jail Superintendent are regular government positions governed by the 7th Pay Commission structure. This means selected candidates are not appointed on a short-term contract but enter structured government service with probation, confirmation, and long-term promotional avenues. During the first three years, candidates receive a graded stipend as per state rules, and after confirmation, full salary benefits apply. Over time, departmental promotions, increments, pension benefits under applicable schemes, and job security make these posts stable career options, especially for candidates seeking uniformed government service.
Specific Physical and Technical Requirements
The recruitment places strong emphasis on physical fitness because these are executive and field-oriented posts. Forest Guards are required to complete long-distance walk tests, while Jail Prahari candidates must qualify in timed running and strength-based events. These requirements ensure that selected candidates can handle real field duties such as patrolling forests, escorting inmates, or managing prison security. Height and chest measurements are strictly verified using official instruments, and there is no relaxation beyond prescribed norms. Candidates should not assume flexibility in these standards. Proper physical preparation months before the exam is essential to avoid elimination after clearing the written stage.
Posting Policy, District Cadre and Service Bond Conditions
Forest Guard vacancies are treated as district-cadre posts, meaning candidates are allotted districts based on merit and preference but may not receive their home district. Transfers are governed by departmental administrative policies and are not immediate after joining. Jail Department posts are typically state cadre and may require service in any correctional institution across Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, candidates are required to execute a service bond for a minimum period as per departmental training norms. If a candidate resigns before completion of training or bond period, recovery of training expenses may apply. Applicants must consider this before applying.
Documentation Nuances and Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common reasons for rejection during document verification is mismatch in personal details. The name, father’s name, and date of birth in Aadhaar, 10th certificate, and application form must be identical. OBC Non-Creamy Layer and EWS certificates must be issued in the correct financial year format and by the competent authority. Candidates should carry both original documents and self-attested photocopies. It is advisable to keep scanned digital copies ready in advance. Any overwriting, incomplete certificate format, or expired validity can result in cancellation even after clearing all stages of the recruitment process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) Recruitment 2026
1. What is the MPESB 2026 exam date for Forest Guard and Jail Prahari posts?
The MPESB exam date 2026 is scheduled from 07 April 2026 onwards in multiple shifts. Candidates must download the admit card before the exam and report as per shift timing mentioned in the hall ticket.
2. What is the total number of vacancies under MPESB Recruitment 2026?
The recruitment includes a total of 1679 posts across Forest Guard (728), Field Guard (169), Jail Prahari (757), and Assistant Jail Superintendent (25). Category-wise distribution is available in the official notification.
3. What is the age limit and relaxation for SC/ST candidates?
The basic age limit is 18 to 33 years for UR male candidates. SC/ST/OBC and female candidates receive relaxation up to 38 years as per MP government rules. Age is calculated as per the official cut-off date.
4. Is there negative marking in the MPESB selection process?
Yes, the written examination includes negative marking. Each correct answer carries +1 mark, while each incorrect answer deducts 0.25 marks. Candidates should attempt questions carefully to avoid unnecessary score reduction.
5. What is the qualification required for Assistant Jail Superintendent?
For Assistant Jail Superintendent, candidates must possess a graduate degree from a recognized university. Final-year students who have not completed their degree by the application deadline are generally not eligible.
6. Can final-year students apply for MPESB Recruitment 2026?
Only candidates who have completed the required qualification before the last date of application, i.e., 14 March 2026, are eligible. Final-year students awaiting results should confirm eligibility before applying.
7. What is the MPESB 2026 application link for online registration?
The official MPESB 2026 application link is available at https://iforms.mponline.gov.in/. Candidates must register through the MP Online portal and complete profile verification before submitting the form.
8. What is the application fee for different categories?
The application fee is ₹500 for General category candidates and ₹250 for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD candidates who are MP residents. The fee is non-refundable under any circumstances.
9. What is the correction window rule in MPESB Recruitment 2026?
The correction window remains open from 28 February 2026 to 19 March 2026. Candidates can edit limited fields by paying the prescribed correction fee. Major details like category and eligibility must be entered carefully during initial submission.
10. What are the physical standards for Forest Guard posts?
Male candidates must have a minimum height of 163 cm (ST: 152 cm) and complete a 25 km walk in 4 hours. Female candidates must complete 14 km in 4 hours. Standards are strictly verified.
11. In which language will the MPESB written exam be conducted?
The written examination is conducted in Hindi and English mediums as per official guidelines. Candidates should carefully read instructions mentioned in the admit card regarding language preferences.
12. What documents are required during verification?
Candidates must produce original 10th marksheet, Aadhaar card, caste certificate, domicile certificate, income certificate (if applicable), and other relevant documents. OBC Non-Creamy Layer and EWS certificates must be valid for the financial year.
13. Where will selected candidates be posted?
Forest Guard posts are district cadre and candidates may be posted in any district of Madhya Pradesh. Jail Department posts are state cadre and postings depend on departmental requirements.
14. What is the minimum qualifying mark in the written exam?
Unreserved candidates must secure at least 33% marks, while reserved categories require 23% marks to qualify. However, final selection depends on merit and availability of seats.
15. How is the final merit list prepared in MPESB 2026 selection process?
The final merit list is prepared based on normalized CBT scores. Candidates must clear physical tests and document verification. Only those fulfilling all eligibility criteria are included in the final selection list.
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