The Karnataka Forest Department has released the Forest Observer (Group D) Recruitment 2026 notification to fill 675 vacancies across various forest circles in Karnataka. Candidates who have passed SSLC (10th Class) or an equivalent qualification can apply online through aranya.gov.in from 01 August 2026 to 31 August 2026. The recruitment process is based on SSLC merit, followed by Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), and Physical Efficiency Test, with no written examination.

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Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 Overview

Karnataka Forest Department Group D Recruitment 2026

The Karnataka Forest Department has announced a major recruitment drive for 675 Forest Observer (Group D) posts across multiple forest circles in the state. This recruitment provides an excellent opportunity for SSLC-qualified candidates seeking a secure Karnataka Government job in the Forest Department.

Unlike many government recruitments, this notification does not include a written examination. Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on their SSLC marks, followed by verification of physical standards and endurance tests. This makes the recruitment especially attractive for candidates with strong academic performance and physical fitness.

Selected candidates will receive a salary under the Karnataka Civil Services pay scale along with applicable government allowances and benefits.

About Karnataka Forest Department

The Karnataka Forest Department plays a vital role in conserving forests, protecting wildlife, managing biodiversity, and implementing environmental protection initiatives across the state. Forest Observers are responsible for supporting field operations, protecting forest resources, preventing illegal activities, and assisting senior forest officials in day-to-day forest management.

Joining the department offers long-term job security, career growth, and an opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation.

Karnataka Forest Department Notification 2026

The official notification has been issued for 675 Forest Observer (Group D) vacancies under the Karnataka Forest Department for the recruitment year 2026–27.

Applications will be accepted only through online mode, and candidates are advised to carefully read the eligibility conditions before submitting the application.

Candidates should complete the registration process before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 Important Dates

Why Apply for Karnataka Forest Department Jobs?

Working as a Forest Observer offers several benefits:

• Permanent Karnataka Government job
• No written examination
• Selection based on SSLC marks and physical tests
• Attractive government salary
• Pension and retirement benefits (as applicable)
• Career growth opportunities
• Work in forest conservation and wildlife protection
• Job security with the Karnataka Government

Karnataka Forest Observer Vacancy Details 2026

The Karnataka Forest Department has announced 675 Forest Observer (Group ‘D’) vacancies across 11 Forest Circles in the state. Candidates can apply for the vacancies available in their preferred circle, subject to eligibility and reservation rules.

Circle-wise Vacancy Details

Note: Vacancy numbers are based on the official notification and may change if the department issues further updates.

Educational Qualification

Candidates applying for Karnataka Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 must have passed SSLC (Class 10) or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Government.

The following qualifications are considered equivalent:

• SSLC conducted by Karnataka Secondary Education Examination Board
• CBSE Class 10
• ICSE Class 10
• Class 10 conducted by other State Education Boards
• National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) Secondary Course
• Karnataka Open School (KOS) Secondary Course

Candidates awaiting their SSLC results are not eligible to apply.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

• Must be an Indian Citizen.
• Must possess the required educational qualification before the last date of application.
• Must be physically and medically fit to perform forest duties.
• Must satisfy the prescribed Physical Standard Test (PST).
• Candidates failing the medical examination may be disqualified.
• Candidates providing false information or forged documents will face cancellation of candidature and legal action.

Karnataka Forest Observer Age Limit

Minimum Age

• 18 Years

Age Relaxation

The Government has granted a one-time relaxation of 5 years in the upper age limit for notifications issued up to 31 December 2027.

Ex-Servicemen

Eligible ex-servicemen will receive age relaxation as per Karnataka Government rules.

Existing Forest Observers

Candidates already working as Forest Observers on an honorarium basis and who have completed the required continuous service are eligible for higher age limits as specified in the notification.

Karnataka Forest Observer Salary

Selected candidates will receive salary under the Karnataka Civil Services Pay Scale.

Pay Scale

₹29,600 – ₹52,800

The pay progression includes annual increments as prescribed under Karnataka Government rules.

Additional Benefits

Selected candidates may receive:

• Dearness Allowance (DA)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• Medical Benefits
• Leave Benefits
• Pension benefits (as applicable)
• Government Holidays
• Career Promotion Opportunities

Karnataka Forest Observer Application Fee

Fee Payment Methods

Candidates can pay the application fee through:

• UPI
• Debit Card
• Credit Card
• Internet Banking
• NEFT

Cash payment through the generated bank challan is also permitted at designated bank branches as specified in the notification.

Karnataka Forest Observer Selection Process

There is no written examination for this recruitment.

Selection consists of the following stages:

1. Merit List based on SSLC Marks
2. Physical Standard Test (PST)
3. Physical Endurance Test (PET)
4. Physical Efficiency Test
5. Medical Examination
6. Document Verification
7. Final Merit List

Candidates who successfully complete all the above stages will be considered for final appointment.

Physical Standard Test (Male)

Physical Standard Test (Female)

Candidates Not Eligible Due to Physical Conditions

Candidates with the following conditions may be declared medically unfit:

• Knock knees
• Bow legs
• Flat feet
• Varicose veins
• Defective vision
• Colour blindness
• Night blindness
• Speech impairment
• Hearing impairment
• Hydrocele (for male candidates)

Required Documents

Candidates should keep the following documents ready before filling out the online application. The official notification advises candidates to upload the required certificates as specified in the online application portal.

Educational Documents

• SSLC / Class 10 Marks Card
• SSLC Passing Certificate (if applicable)

Identity Proof

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID / Driving Licence / PAN Card (if required)

Category Certificates (If Applicable)

• Caste Certificate
• Income Certificate (if applicable)
• Category-I Certificate
• EWS Certificate (if applicable)

Reservation Documents

• Local Forest Dwelling Scheduled Tribe Community Certificate with Photograph (if claiming reservation)
• PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
• Ex-Servicemen Certificate (if applicable)

Other Documents

• Recent Passport-size Photograph
• Signature
• Valid Mobile Number
• Active Email ID
• Any additional certificate requested in the online application

Important: Candidates should upload only genuine documents. Submission of fake or altered certificates may result in cancellation of candidature and legal action.

How to Apply for Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026

Eligible candidates can apply online by following the steps below.

Step 1

Visit the official Karnataka Forest Department website.

Step 2

Open the Recruitment section.

Step 3

Click on Forest Observer (Group D) Recruitment 2026.

Step 4

Read the official notification carefully before proceeding.

Step 5

Register using a valid mobile number and email ID.

Step 6

Fill in the online application form with:

• Personal details
• Educational qualification
• Category details
• Reservation details
• Communication address

Step 7

Upload the required documents in the prescribed format.

Step 8

Pay the application fee using the available online payment methods or generate the challan for cash payment.

Step 9

Preview all the entered details carefully.

Step 10

Submit the application form and download the confirmation page for future reference.

Important Instructions

Candidates should carefully follow these instructions before submitting the application:

• Use only your own Aadhaar number while registering.
• Apply only through the official online portal.
• Ensure all uploaded certificates are valid and legible.
• Keep the registered mobile number and email ID active throughout the recruitment process.
• Once the application is submitted, modifications may not be permitted.
• Applications received through post, courier, email, or any offline mode will not be accepted.
• The number of vacancies may change depending on administrative requirements.
• The decision of the Karnataka Forest Department regarding recruitment will be final.

Karnataka Forest Department Forest Observer Important Links

• Apply Online: Click here
• Official Notification PDF: Click here
• Official Website: Click here 

Why Should You Apply?

The Karnataka Forest Observer post offers several advantages for candidates seeking a government career.

Benefits

• Permanent Karnataka Government Job
• No Written Examination
• Selection Based on SSLC Merit
• Attractive Salary Package
• Government Allowances
• Job Security
• Promotion Opportunities
• Pension Benefits (as per applicable rules)
• Opportunity to Work in Wildlife & Forest Protection
• Excellent Career Growth

Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 FAQs

What is the last date to apply for Karnataka Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?

The last date to submit the online application is 31 August 2026.

How many vacancies are announced?

The Karnataka Forest Department has announced 675 Forest Observer (Group D) vacancies.

What is the required educational qualification?

Candidates must have passed SSLC (Class 10) or an equivalent examination recognized by the Government.

Is there a written examination?

No. The selection process does not include a written exam.

What is the salary for a Forest Observer?

Selected candidates will receive a pay scale of ₹29,600 – ₹52,800, along with applicable Karnataka Government allowances.

What is the age limit?

• Minimum Age: 18 Years
• Maximum Age:
  • General: 30 Years
  • 2A/2B/3A/3B: 32 Years
  • SC/ST/Category-I: 33 Years

Applicable age relaxation is available as per the notification.

How is the selection made?

Selection is based on:

• SSLC Merit List
• Physical Standard Test (PST)
• Physical Endurance Test (PET)
• Physical Efficiency Test
• Medical Examination
• Document Verification

Can candidates from other states apply?

The notification specifies the eligibility criteria for applicants. Candidates should verify that they meet all eligibility conditions before applying.

Conclusion

The Karnataka Forest Department Group D Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for SSLC-qualified candidates seeking a stable Karnataka Government job. With 675 Forest Observer vacancies, no written examination, and a selection process based on academic merit and physical fitness, this recruitment is expected to attract a large number of applicants.

Candidates should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents in advance, and complete the online application before 31 August 2026. Applying early will help avoid last-minute technical issues and provide sufficient time to prepare for the physical tests.