Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Recruitment 2026
Karnataka Forest Department — Government of Karnataka
Executive Summary & Key Facts
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.
📅 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Important Dates & Schedule
| Application Start | 01 Aug 2026 |
|---|---|
| Last Date to Apply |
30 Oct 2026
|
| Fee Payment Deadline | 02 Sep 2026 |
📋 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Eligibility Criteria & Vacancy Overview
| Post Name | Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) |
|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 750 |
| Qualification | 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. |
| Age Limit | 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. |
| 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. |
| 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 Process | 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. |
👥 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 4Pay scale Rs. 27,500-46,675 with Contributory Pension Scheme
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)
Remuneration & Monthly Pay Scale
Official Prescribed Pay: Rs. 27,500-46,675
📝 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
🎂 Forest Observer (Forest Watcher – Group D / Aranya Veekshaka) - Age Relaxation Criteria
⚠️ 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.