🏛️ Government Job Alert
Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026
Karnataka Forest Department
📍
Location
Karnataka
📅
Last Date
30 Oct 2026
💼
Salary
Rs. 27,500-650-29,600-725-32,500-800-35,700-900-39,300-1,000-43,300-1,125-46,675; Contributory Pension Scheme applicable.
Karnataka Forest Department - Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) Official Notification Poster & Schedule

Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026

Karnataka Forest Department — Government of Karnataka

AV
By Anita Verma • 07 Oct 2026
Sarkari Job General No Exam Jobs 📍 Karnataka
Listen to this page इस पेज को सुनें
⏱️ ~4 min audio summary • English / हिंदी
Online Application Form & Official Notification Active
Deadline: 30 Oct 2026
👥 Total Vacancies 750 Posts
📍 Job Location Across Karnataka
💰 Salary / Pay Rs. 27,500-650-29,600-725-32,500-800-35,700-900-39,300-1,000-43,300-1,125-46,675; Contributory Pension Scheme applicable.
🎯 Selection Mode Screening of applications, provisional shortlist for physical tests, Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), Physical Efficiency Test (PEfT), merit list based on SSLC marks, provisional selection list, document verification, medical examination, and Kannada language test where applicable.
🎓 Detailed qualification, age limit & exam pattern: View Eligibility Table ↓
📌

Executive Summary & Key Facts

Verified Fact Sheet

The Karnataka Forest Department has issued an official recruitment notification for Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka), announcing a total of 750 vacancies located in Karnataka. The online application window opens on 01 August 2026 and closes on 30 October 2026. To be eligible, applicants must hold SSLC or equivalent examination passed. Accepted equivalents include Class 10 from CBSE, ICSE, other State Boards, NIOS secondary course, or KOS/KSSEB equivalent, as applicable in the notification. and be within the prescribed age limit of Minimum 18 years; maximum 30 years for General, 32 years for Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB, and 33 years for SC/ST/Category-I candidates, as on the notification date/start date. One-time 5-year relaxation applies to notifications issued up to 31.12.2027., with category relaxation applicable as per government guidelines. Selected candidates will receive an approved pay scale of Rs. 27,500-650-29,600-725-32,500-800-35,700-900-39,300-1,000-43,300-1,125-46,675; Contributory Pension Scheme applicable.. The selection procedure comprises Screening of applications, provisional shortlist for physical tests, Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), Physical Efficiency Test (PEfT), merit list based on SSLC marks, provisional selection list, document verification, medical examination, and Kannada language test where applicable.. For complete guidelines, syllabus breakdown, and official notification PDF, refer to the verified information below on ApplySarkariJob.

🏛️ Permanent Govt Post
📍 Posting: Across Karnataka
🏢 Head Office: Bengaluru

📅 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Important Dates & Schedule

Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) Schedule & Deadlines
Application Start01 Aug 2026
Last Date to Apply
30 Oct 2026
Fee Payment Deadline02 Sep 2026

📋 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Eligibility Criteria & Vacancy Overview

Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) Eligibility, Qualifications & Details
Post Name Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka)
Total Vacancies750
QualificationSSLC or equivalent examination passed. Accepted equivalents include Class 10 from CBSE, ICSE, other State Boards, NIOS secondary course, or KOS/KSSEB equivalent, as applicable in the notification.
Age LimitMinimum 18 years; maximum 30 years for General, 32 years for Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB, and 33 years for SC/ST/Category-I candidates, as on the notification date/start date. One-time 5-year relaxation applies to notifications issued up to 31.12.2027.
SalaryRs. 27,500-650-29,600-725-32,500-800-35,700-900-39,300-1,000-43,300-1,125-46,675; Contributory Pension Scheme applicable.
Application Fee
General: ₹200 OBC: ₹200 EWS: ₹200 SC: ₹100 ST: ₹100 fee_exempted: Yes payment_mode: Online (UPI / NEFT / Debit Card / Credit Card / Internet Banking) or Cash Challan at notified bank branches
Selection ProcessScreening of applications, provisional shortlist for physical tests, Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), Physical Efficiency Test (PEfT), merit list based on SSLC marks, provisional selection list, document verification, medical examination, and Kannada language test where applicable.

👥 Category-Wise Vacancy Details

Total Seats: 750
Post / Designation UR OBC SC ST EWS Total
Forest Observer - - - - - 750
Consolidated Total - - - - - 750
💰

Complete Salary Breakup & Allowances

7th CPC Level 4

Pay scale Rs. 27,500-46,675 with Contributory Pension Scheme

Basic Pay
₹27,500
📋

Age Eligibility & DOB Range for Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka)

Cut-off Date: As on notification date/start date — Candidates must be between 18 to 33 years (General category). Category-wise relaxation and exact DOB boundaries are shown below.

Category Min Age Max Age Relaxation DOB Must Be Between
General (UR) 18 yrs 33 yrs — 31 Oct 1993 to 30 Oct 2008
EWS 18 yrs 33 yrs — 31 Oct 1993 to 30 Oct 2008
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) 18 yrs 35 yrs +2 yrs 31 Oct 1991 to 30 Oct 2008
SC (Scheduled Caste) 18 yrs 36 yrs +3 yrs 31 Oct 1990 to 30 Oct 2008
ST (Scheduled Tribe) 18 yrs 36 yrs +3 yrs 31 Oct 1990 to 30 Oct 2008
PwD (General) 18 yrs 43 yrs +10 yrs 31 Oct 1983 to 30 Oct 2008
🧮

Check Your Age Eligibility — Interactive Calculator

Prescribed Age: 18–33 Years (As on As on notification date/start date)

⚡ Instant Validation
Cut-off date reference: Official Notification (As on notification date/start date) Check Eligibility for Other Exams →
💰

Remuneration & Monthly Pay Scale

Official Prescribed Pay: Rs. 27,500-46,675

Official Stipend / Pay
Looking for regular Central Government Pay Matrix & in-hand allowance estimations?
Calculate 7th CPC In-Hand Salary & Pay Matrix →
Official Notification Verified Advt No: No. KFD/HOFF/B9(RCT)/5/2026-PnR, dated 30.06.2026
Cross-checked against official board announcement & verified by ApplySarkariJob Editorial Board. Sourced from aranya.gov.in ↗

📝 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Detailed Notification Guide

Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026: Overview & Background

The Government of Karnataka through the Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) has officially announced the explore all latest Karnataka Government Jobs portal update for the recruitment of 750 Forest Observer vacancies (also known as Forest Watcher, Group D, or Aranya Veekshaka). Issued under notification reference No. KFD/HOFF/B9(RCT)/5/2026-PnR, dated 30 June 2026, this notification opens up significant career pathways for young aspirants seeking stable public sector employment. Candidates who wish to build a career protecting the rich flora and fauna of the state can apply through the official web portal at aranya.gov.in.

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

S. No. Circle No. of Posts
1 Bengaluru 70 (Non-HK)
2 Belagavi 42 (Non-HK)
3 Ballari 63 (17 Non-HK + 46 HK)
4 Chamarajanagar 169 (Non-HK)
5 Chikkamagaluru 56 (Non-HK)
6 Dharwad 12 (Non-HK)
7 Hassan 30 (Non-HK)
8 Kanara 60 (Non-HK)
9 Kodagu 32 (Non-HK)
10 Kalaburagi 4 (HK)
11 Mangaluru 54 (Non-HK)
12 Mysuru 120 (Non-HK)
13 Shivamogga 38 (Non-HK)
  Total 750 (700 Non-HK + 50 HK)

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

S. No. Circle and Division No. of Posts
1 Bengaluru – Bengaluru Urban Division 12 (Non-HK)
2 Bengaluru – Bengaluru Rural Division 8 (Non-HK)
3 Bengaluru – Ramanagara Division 15 (Non-HK)
4 Bengaluru – Kolar Division 13 (Non-HK)
5 Bengaluru – Chikkaballapura Division 4 (Non-HK)
6 Bengaluru – Bannerughatta National Park 18 (Non-HK)
7 Belagavi – Belagavi Division 22 (Non-HK)
8 Belagavi – Gokak Division 5 (Non-HK)
9 Belagavi – Bagalkot Division 5 (Non-HK)
10 Belagavi – Vijayapura Division 1 (Non-HK)
11 Belagavi – Social Forestry Division, Bagalkot 3 (Non-HK)
12 Belagavi – Working Plan, Belagavi 2 (Non-HK)
13 Belagavi – Research Circle, Belagavi 2 (Non-HK)
14 Belagavi – Research Circle, Badami 2 (Non-HK)
15 Ballari – Ballari Division 20 (HK)
16 Ballari – Vijayanagara Division 22 (HK)
17 Ballari – Chitradurga Division 9 (Non-HK)
18 Ballari – Davanagere Division 5 (Non-HK)
19 Ballari – Koppal Division 1 (HK)
20 Ballari – Research Circle, Ballari 1 (HK)
21 Ballari – Working Plan, Ballari 1 (HK)
22 Ballari – Atal Bihari Vajpayee Zoological Park, Kamalapura 1 (HK)
23 Ballari – Research Circle, Chalakere 2 (Non-HK)
24 Ballari – Adumalleshwara Mini Zoo, Chitradurga 1 (Non-HK)
25 Chamarajanagar – BRT Tiger Reserve, Chamarajanagar 26 (Non-HK)
26 Chamarajanagar – Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Division (MM Hills), Kollegal 24 (Non-HK)
27 Chamarajanagar – Cauvery Wildlife Division, Kollegal (as printed in the vacancy table) 28 (Non-HK)
28 Chamarajanagar – Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Bandipur 75 (Non-HK)
29 Chamarajanagar – Special Tiger Protection Force, Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserve 16 (Non-HK)
30 Chikkamagaluru – Chikkamagaluru Division 18 (Non-HK)
31 Chikkamagaluru – Koppa Division 10 (Non-HK)
32 Chikkamagaluru – Bhadra Tiger Reserve, Chikkamagaluru 28 (Non-HK)
33 Dharwad – Dharwad Division 3 (Non-HK)
34 Dharwad – Gadag Division 5 (Non-HK)
35 Dharwad – Haveri Division 4 (Non-HK)
36 Hassan – Hassan Division 20 (Non-HK)
37 Hassan – Tumakuru Division 8 (Non-HK)
38 Hassan – Research Circle, Sakaleshpura 1 (Non-HK)
39 Hassan – Research Circle, Tumakuru 1 (Non-HK)
40 Kanara – Wildlife, Dandeli 30 (Non-HK)
41 Kanara – Karwar Division 6 (Non-HK)
42 Kanara – Haliyal Division 4 (Non-HK)
43 Kanara – Yellapur Division 6 (Non-HK)
44 Kanara – Sirsi Division 7 (Non-HK)
45 Kanara – Honnavar Division 5 (Non-HK)
46 Kanara – Forest Training Centre, Tattihalla 1 (Non-HK)
47 Kanara – Research, Sirsi and Dandeli 1 (Non-HK)
48 Kodagu – Conservator of Forests, Research, Madikeri 3 (Non-HK)
49 Kodagu – Madikeri Division 13 (Non-HK)
50 Kodagu – Virajpet Division 7 (Non-HK)
51 Kodagu – Madikeri Wildlife Division 9 (Non-HK)
52 Kalaburagi – Bidar Division 1 (HK)
53 Kalaburagi – Yadgiri Division 2 (HK)
54 Kalaburagi – Raichur Division 1 (HK)
55 Mangaluru – Mangaluru Division 26 (Non-HK)
56 Mangaluru – Kundapura Division 12 (Non-HK)
57 Mangaluru – Kudremukh Wildlife Division, Karkala 15 (Non-HK)
58 Mangaluru – Genetics Circle, Moodbidri 1 (Non-HK)
59 Mysuru – Mysuru Division 16 (Non-HK)
60 Mysuru – Hunsur Division 2 (Non-HK)
61 Mysuru – Mandya Division 11 (Non-HK)
62 Mysuru – Mysuru Wildlife Division 3 (Non-HK)
63 Mysuru – Nagarahole Wildlife 80 (Non-HK)
64 Mysuru – Working Plan, Mysuru 1 (Non-HK)
65 Mysuru – Genetics Circle, Mysuru 1 (Non-HK)
66 Mysuru – STPF, Mysuru 5 (Non-HK)
67 Mysuru – Research, Mandya 1 (Non-HK)
68 Shivamogga – Shivamogga Division 11 (Non-HK)
69 Shivamogga – Bhadravati Division 13 (Non-HK)
70 Shivamogga – Sagar Division 7 (Non-HK)
71 Shivamogga – Shivamogga Wildlife Division 5 (Non-HK)
72 Shivamogga – Research, Shivamogga 2 (Non-HK)
  Total 750 (700 Non-HK + 50 HK)

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Category Maximum Age
General candidates 30 years
Category IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB (backward classes) 32 years
Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and Category-I 33 years

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Candidate Type Relaxation or Maximum Age
Ex-servicemen who served in the armed forces and were released as per rules (demobilisation or retrenchment) Upper age limit of their category is relaxed by the number of years served in the armed forces plus 3 years
Forest Preraks (Aranya Prerakas) with at least 5 years of service in the Forest Department who are currently serving and receiving a fixed honorarium: General 40 years
Forest Preraks: Category IIA, IIB, IIIA, IIIB 42 years
Forest Preraks: Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and Category-I 43 years

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Category Male Candidates Women and Third Gender Candidates
General, Category IIA, IIB, IIIA and IIIB Rs. 200/- Rs. 100/-
Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and Category-I Rs. 100/- Rs. 50/-

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Post Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D)
Pay Scale Rs. 27,500 – 46,675 (with increments as per the scale above)
Pension Contributory Pension Scheme

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Vision Better Eye Worse Eye
Distant vision 6/6 metre 6/9 metre
Near vision 0/6 metre 0/8 metre

Detailed Vacancy & Eligibility Breakdown

Post Induction Training Probation (including training period)
Forest Observer 6 months 36 months

This massive recruitment drive offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals looking to check more 10th Pass jobs in Karnataka. Operating under Level 4 of the pay structure, selected candidates will be posted across various forest circles in Karnataka, undertaking vital field duties, patrolling assigned forest ranges, preventing illegal wildlife poaching or logging, and assisting senior forest officials in conservation operations.

Eligibility Standards, Educational Qualifications & Age Criteria

To qualify for the Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) position, candidates must fulfill the mandatory educational and age milestones set by the Karnataka Forest Department.

  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have successfully passed SSLC or equivalent examination passed from a recognized board. Accepted educational equivalents include Class 10 from CBSE, ICSE, other State Boards, NIOS secondary course, or KOS/KSSEB equivalent, as specified in the official circular.
  • Age Limit: The minimum age limit is 18 years. The maximum age cap varies by category as on the notification date or start date: 30 years for General category candidates, 32 years for Category IIA, IIB, IIIA, and IIIB candidates, and 33 years for SC, ST, and Category-I applicants. A one-time 5-year relaxation applies to relevant notifications issued up to 31.12.2027.
  • Age Relaxation: Ex-servicemen enjoy an upper age limit relaxation equal to their years of active service rendered plus an additional 3 years. Furthermore, eligible Forest Preraks with 5 or more years of service receive extended upper age caps up to 40 years for General, 42 years for Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB, and 43 years for SC/ST/Category-I.

Salary Structure, Pay Scale & Service Benefits

The selected candidates for the Forest Observer posts will be enrolled under a secure and rewarding public sector compensation framework. The position is categorized under regular employment with the Contributory Pension Scheme applicable.

  • Pay Scale & Matrix: The post carries a robust pay scale of Rs. 27,500-650-29,600-725-32,500-800-35,700-900-39,300-1,000-43,300-1,125-46,675, aligned with Level 4 parameters.
  • Initial Basic Pay: The entry basic pay is fixed at Rs. 27,500 per month, supplemented by applicable DA and service allowances as per state government rules.

Selection Methodology & Physical Test Stages

The Karnataka Forest Department follows a rigorous multi-tier screening process designed to evaluate both physical endurance and academic merit. There is no traditional written examination prescribed for this recruitment cycle.

  • Stage 1: Application Screening: Initial verification of online forms and uploaded digital certificates. Shortlisting for physical tests is conducted in a ratio of 1:20 based on application credentials.
  • Stage 2: Physical Standard Test (PST): Measurement of candidate height, chest dimensions, and physical build against prescribed departmental benchmarks.
  • Stage 3: Physical Endurance Test (PET): Includes a timed running event testing stamina and cardiovascular capacity.
  • Stage 4: Physical Efficiency Test (PEfT): Comprises five distinct physical events, where candidates must successfully qualify in at least three events.
  • Stage 5: Merit List Preparation: A merit list is formulated based on marks secured in the SSLC or equivalent examination, adhering strictly to circle-wise reservation rules.
  • Stage 6: Final Verification: Comprehensive document verification, medical fitness examination, and Kannada language proficiency test where applicable.

Important Schedule & Application Deadlines

Aspirants must keep track of all crucial timeline milestones to ensure smooth submission of their candidature. The online application window commenced on 1 August 2026 and will remain active until the final submission deadline on 30 October 2026. While the original fee payment deadline was noted as 2 September 2026, candidates are strongly advised to cross-verify any extended fee windows directly on the official portal before proceeding.

Application Fee Structure & Payment Modes

Application fees vary based on category and gender as mandated by government regulations. All fee transactions are non-refundable.

  • General and Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB: Male candidates pay Rs. 200, while Women and Third Gender applicants pay Rs. 100.
  • SC / ST / Category-I: Male candidates pay Rs. 100, while Women and Third Gender applicants pay Rs. 50.
  • Fee Exemptions: PwD candidates are fully exempted from paying application fees.
  • Payment Channels: Fees can be remitted securely online via UPI, NEFT, Net Banking, Debit Cards, Credit Cards, or through offline cash challan generated at designated bank branches.

Step-by-Step Practical Application Guide

Candidates must apply exclusively through the online mode by following these structured steps on the official portal:

  • Step 1: Navigate to the official Karnataka Forest Department recruitment portal at aranya.gov.in.
  • Step 2: Access the Nemakati (Recruitment) section and select the notification link for Forest Observer vacancies.
  • Step 3: Carefully read through the official notification PDF, guidelines, and circle-wise eligibility criteria.
  • Step 4: Register on the portal using your own valid Aadhaar (UID) number, active mobile number, and email address.
  • Step 5: Fill out the online application form with accurate personal, educational, and reservation details, then upload scanned copies of required certificates.
  • Step 6: Pay the prescribed application fee through your preferred online or offline channel.
  • Step 7: Submit the final form and print out a physical copy of the application slip along with the payment receipt for future reference.

Essential Documents Checklist

Keep the following original documents and self-attested photocopies ready for uploading during online submission and subsequent verification stages:

  • SSLC or equivalent marks card serving as verified proof of date of birth.
  • Educational qualification mark sheets and passing certificates.
  • Caste and income certificate issued by a competent authority in the prescribed format, if claiming reservation benefits.
  • Supporting certificates for specific quotas including Ex-servicemen, PwD, project-displaced persons, Kannada medium study, rural background, third gender, or ST-LFDT claims.
  • Valid Aadhaar (UID) card number.
  • Printed copy of the online application form and examination hall ticket for physical test reporting.

Candidate Advisory & Crucial Precautions

Strict Advisory: Applicants must use only their own personal Aadhaar (UID) number during registration. Any misuse, duplication, or proxy registration will result in immediate cancellation of candidature and a 10-year departmental debarment.

Ensure that all required certificates and mark sheets are uploaded correctly at the time of initial application, as post-submission modifications are strictly prohibited. Keep your registered mobile number and email ID active throughout the duration of the recruitment drive to receive vital alerts regarding physical test schedules, admit card downloads, and provisional selection lists.

📊 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

No written exam is mentioned. Selection is based on physical tests and SSLC marks. PET includes a timed run, and PEfT has five events; candidates must qualify in at least three. Provisional shortlisting is in the ratio of 1:20 for physical tests, and final selection is prepared circle-wise on merit and reservation rules.

🎂 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Age Relaxation Criteria

Ex-servicemen: upper age limit relaxed by years of service plus 3 years. Forest Preraks with 5+ years service: General up to 40 years, Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB up to 42 years, SC/ST/Category-I up to 43 years.

⚠️ Important Application Guidelines & Instructions

  • Use only your own Aadhaar (UID) number; misuse can lead to rejection and 10-year debarment.
  • Upload all required certificates at the time of application; later changes are not allowed.
  • Carry the hall ticket, application printout and original photo ID to the physical tests.
  • Submit the form well before the deadline and keep your mobile number and email active until the process ends.

❓ Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 (Eligibility): What is the educational qualification required for Forest Observer?

Candidates must have passed SSLC or an equivalent Class 10 examination recognized in the notification.

Q2 (Age & Relaxation): What is the age limit and relaxation for Forest Observer?

The age limit is 18 to 30 years for General, 18 to 32 years for Category IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB, and 18 to 33 years for SC/ST/Category-I, with additional relaxations for ex-servicemen and eligible Forest Preraks.

Q3 (Salary): What is the pay scale / salary structure for Forest Observer?

The post carries the pay scale of Rs. 27,500-46,675 under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

Q4 (Dates & Fee): What is the last date to apply and fee payment deadline for Forest Observer?

The last date to apply online is 30 Oct 2026. The original fee payment deadline was 02 Sep 2026; candidates should verify the current fee deadline on the official portal.

Explore More Opportunities

🔗 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Official Notification & Quick Links

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By
AV
Anita Verma
State PSC & University Jobs Desk

Verifies and publishes recruitment alerts from state public service commissions, high courts, universities, and health mission departments across India.

📝 874 articles published · View all posts →

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