Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 750 Posts

Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) has released the KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 notification for 750 Forest Observer posts across Karnataka. The post is officially referred to as Forest Watcher – Group D, also known as Aranya Veekshaka in Kannada.

🎯 Find your next career move! 💼

Post Title	Last Date to Apply
CGPSC Microbiologist Recruitment 2026	October 9, 2026
UPCAR Recruitment 2026	October 9, 2026
Mysore Municipal Corporation Recruitment 2026	October 9, 2026
Mysore City Corporation Recruitment 2026	October 9, 2026
CAU Recruitment 2026	October 10, 2026

The vacancies include 700 posts in the original cadre (Non-HK) and 50 posts in the Kalyana Karnataka (HK) region. The recruitment is being conducted by the Office of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force), Government of Karnataka.

Candidates who have passed SSLC or an equivalent examination can apply online. Along with the educational qualification, candidates must satisfy the prescribed age, physical standards, physical endurance and physical efficiency requirements.

The online application process started on 01 August 2026. As per the latest extension letter dated 29 September 2026, the last date to submit the online application has been extended to 30 October 2026.

The selection process does not include a written examination according to the provided recruitment details. Candidates are shortlisted based on SSLC marks for physical tests, followed by physical tests, document verification, medical examination and final merit selection.

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 – Overview

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 Important Dates

The application deadline for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 has been extended.

The latest extension letter dated 29 September 2026 extends the online application deadline to 30 October 2026.

The source information states that the extension is connected with Government notification No. FEE 242 FNG 2026 dated 23 September 2026 concerning proposed changes relating to Scheduled Tribe–Local Forest Dwelling Tribes reservation.

Important Note About Fee Payment

The provided extension letter does not specify a revised fee payment deadline. The original fee payment deadline was 02 September 2026.

Candidates should therefore check the official KFD recruitment portal for the current fee-payment instructions before completing the application.

KFD Forest Observer Vacancy 2026

A total of 750 Forest Observer vacancies have been notified.

The vacancies are distributed as follows:

• 700 Non-HK vacancies
• 50 HK vacancies

The posts are distributed across 13 forest circles.

Division-Wise KFD Forest Observer Vacancy

The recruitment notification also provides division, wildlife, research and working-plan unit-wise vacancies.

Total: 750 posts (700 Non-HK + 50 HK).

KFD Forest Observer Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must satisfy the prescribed eligibility requirements before applying.

The major conditions include:

• The candidate must be an Indian citizen.
• The candidate must have the prescribed SSLC qualification.
• The candidate must satisfy the applicable age limit.
• The candidate must meet the prescribed physical standards.
• The candidate must qualify in the Physical Endurance Test and Physical Efficiency Test.
• The candidate must satisfy the medical requirements.
• The candidate must not have a physical defect that is likely to interfere with efficient performance of duties.
• Candidates must satisfy all other conditions specified in the recruitment rules.

A male candidate with more than one living wife, or a female candidate married to a man who already has a wife, is not eligible without prior Government permission as specified in the recruitment conditions.

KFD Forest Observer Educational Qualification

Candidates applying for the Forest Observer post must have passed SSLC or an equivalent examination.

The prescribed qualification must be held on the last date for submitting the application.

The following qualifications are treated as equivalent to SSLC according to the provided recruitment information:

• Class 10 examination conducted by CBSE.
• Class 10 examination conducted by ICSE.
• Class 10 examination conducted by another State Government examination board.
• Secondary-level course conducted by NIOS.
• Secondary-level course conducted by KOS.

Candidates whose prescribed qualification result or marks card is not available by the last date of application are not eligible.

No other qualification can be substituted for the prescribed educational qualification.

KFD Forest Observer Age Limit

The minimum age is 18 years.

The maximum age differs by category.

The provided recruitment information states that a one-time relaxation of 5 years has been added to these limits for recruitment notifications issued up to 31 December 2027.

Special Age Provisions

Forest Preraks must have at least five years of service in the Forest Department and be currently serving and receiving the prescribed fixed honorarium.

KFD Forest Observer Application Fee

The application fee depends on category and gender.

The application fee is non-refundable.

How to Pay the KFD Application Fee

Candidates can pay through the methods specified in the recruitment instructions.

Online payment options include:

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

Candidates may also use the cash challan option where available.

For cash payment, the candidate should select the cash option after submitting the application, download the challan and deposit the fee at the notified bank branches.

Demand Drafts, cheques and postal orders are not accepted.

KFD Forest Observer Salary 2026

The Forest Observer post carries the following pay scale:

₹27,500 – 650 – ₹29,600 – 725 – ₹32,500 – 800 – ₹35,700 – 900 – ₹39,300 – 1,000 – ₹43,300 – 1,125 – ₹46,675

Allowances are governed by the applicable Government rules.

KFD Forest Observer Selection Process

There is no written examination mentioned in the provided selection procedure.

The selection process includes:

1. Online application scrutiny
2. SSLC-based shortlisting
3. Physical Standard Test
4. Physical Endurance Test
5. Physical Efficiency Test
6. Circle-wise merit list
7. Provisional selection list
8. Original document verification
9. Medical examination
10. Kannada language test, where applicable
11. Final selection list

SSLC-Based Shortlisting

Candidates are initially shortlisted in a 1:20 ratio based on their SSLC or equivalent examination marks for participation in the physical tests.

After candidates qualify in the physical tests, a circle-wise merit list is prepared based on SSLC marks.

The final selection list is prepared in a 1:1 ratio against the notified vacancies, subject to reservation rules and other eligibility conditions.

KFD Forest Observer Physical Standards

Physical standards are an important part of this recruitment.

The applicable physical standards also apply to the corresponding male and female third-gender categories as specified.

Physical Defects That May Lead to Disqualification

The recruitment information lists the following physical conditions as disqualifying conditions:

• Knock knees
• Bow legs
• Flat feet
• Varicose veins
• Speech or hearing impairment
• Hydrocele in men
• Vision defects
• Colour blindness
• Night blindness

KFD Forest Observer Eye Vision Requirements

Candidates must satisfy the prescribed eyesight requirements.

The colour vision test is compulsory.

The recruitment information specifies that each eye must have full vision and that colour blindness, squint or abnormal conditions of the eye or eyelid are treated as disqualifying conditions.

KFD Forest Observer Physical Endurance Test

Candidates must qualify in the prescribed running test.

Candidates who fail the Physical Endurance Test do not proceed further.

KFD Forest Observer Physical Efficiency Test

Candidates must qualify in at least three out of five events.

Candidates who qualify in at least three events can proceed to the next stage.

Important Rules for Physical Tests

Candidates should carefully note the following:

• Candidates must attend the physical tests at their own cost.
• Candidates must make their own travel and accommodation arrangements.
• The tests may continue for more than one day.
• Candidates must carry the hall ticket and a photocopy of the submitted online application.
• Original photo identity proof and a self-attested copy must be carried.
• Candidates should be physically fit before attending the tests.
• No second opportunity is provided if a candidate fails or misses a physical test.
• Missing the notified date or time results in cancellation of candidature.
• Physical tests are recorded through video or CCTV.
• Candidates must provide a specimen signature and left thumb impression after the tests.
• The recruiting authority may change or add test centres.
• Candidates medically disqualified may appeal within the prescribed period.

KFD Forest Observer Reservation

Reservation will be implemented according to the applicable Karnataka Government and Karnataka Forest Department recruitment rules.

Reservation categories include:

• Scheduled Caste
• Scheduled Tribe
• Category-I
• IIA
• IIB
• IIIA
• IIIB
• Persons with Disabilities
• Ex-servicemen
• Project-displaced families
• Kannada-medium candidates
• Rural candidates
• Third-gender candidates
• Local Forest Dwelling Tribes

Local Forest Dwelling Tribes Reservation

The recruitment information provides for 50% reservation of Forest Observer vacancies in specified wildlife divisions and tiger reserves for eligible Local Forest Dwelling Tribe candidates.

The listed locations include:

• Bandipur Tiger Reserve
• Nagarahole Tiger Reserve
• BRT Tiger Reserve
• Cauvery Wildlife Division
• Bhadra Tiger Reserve
• Kudremukh Wildlife Division
• Madikeri Wildlife Division
• MM Hills Wildlife Division
• Bannerughatta Wildlife Division
• Kali Tiger Reserve
• Shivamogga Wildlife Division

The source specifies particular tribes and additional residence and education conditions for candidates claiming this reservation.

Candidates claiming ST-LFDT reservation must carefully select the appropriate option during the application process and upload the prescribed certificates.

Documents Required for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026

Candidates should upload all applicable documents while submitting the online application.

Important documents include:

• SSLC marks card
• Educational qualification documents
• Caste certificate
• Category certificate
• Ex-servicemen certificate, where applicable
• PwD certificate, where applicable
• Project-displaced family certificate
• Kannada-medium certificate
• Rural candidate certificate
• Third-gender certificate
• ST-LFDT certificates, where applicable
• Aadhaar/UID details

Candidates claiming reservation must upload the prescribed certificate. If the required certificate is not uploaded, the reservation claim may not be considered.

During document verification, candidates must produce the original documents corresponding to the documents uploaded with the application.

KFD Forest Observer Training and Probation

Selected candidates are required to undergo induction training and probation.

Candidates appointed as Forest Observers must serve in the department for at least three years from the date of appointment as specified.

A bond may be required agreeing to serve at any location in Karnataka specified by the Government.

Candidates who successfully complete induction training are posted according to the applicable Karnataka Government transfer and service rules.

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 Important Instructions

Candidates should carefully follow the recruitment instructions.

• Applications are accepted online only.
• Applications sent by post, courier, email or by hand are not accepted.
• Do not send a hard copy of the online application to the department.
• Changes or corrections cannot be made after final submission according to the provided instructions.
• Candidates must use their own Aadhaar number.
• Using another person’s Aadhaar number can result in rejection and debarment.
• Candidates should print and preserve the submitted application and fee receipt.
• The mobile number and email ID used during registration should remain active.
• Government employees may need to obtain a No Objection Certificate before appointment.
• Candidates dismissed from Government service or a Government-owned body may be ineligible.
• Candidates debarred from Government examinations or recruitment may be ineligible.
• Impersonation, forged documents, false information or unfair means can result in cancellation and further action.
• Attempting to influence the recruiting authority can result in cancellation.
• Candidates must attend all stages on the notified dates.
• The department may revise vacancy numbers or reservation classifications where required.
• Recruitment updates will be published on the official KFD website.
• The decision of the recruiting authority will be final subject to applicable legal provisions.

How to Apply for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026

Eligible candidates can apply online through the Karnataka Forest Department recruitment system.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Visit the Karnataka Forest Department website.

Step 2: Open the Recruitment Section

Go to the “Nemakati” (Recruitment) section of the website.

Step 3: Read the Notification

Read the Forest Observer recruitment notification and applicable recruitment rules carefully.

Step 4: Enter Your Details

Complete the online application using your correct personal, educational and other required information.

Candidates must use their own Aadhaar/UID number.

Step 5: Upload Documents

Upload the SSLC marks card and other applicable certificates, including reservation documents.

Step 6: Submit the Application

Review all details carefully and submit the application.

Step 7: Pay the Application Fee

Pay the applicable fee using one of the permitted payment methods.

Step 8: Save the Application

Download and save:

• Submitted application
• Fee payment receipt
• Other application-related documents

A hard copy does not have to be sent to the department, but the printout should be preserved and carried for the physical tests.

KFD Forest Observer Apply Online

The online application for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 is available through the official recruitment portal.

Application Start Date: 01 August 2026
Extended Last Date: 30 October 2026

Candidates should complete the application before the deadline and carefully check the official portal for any updated instructions regarding fee payment.

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 – Important Links

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 FAQs

How many Forest Observer vacancies are available in KFD Recruitment 2026?

Karnataka Forest Department has notified 750 Forest Observer vacancies, consisting of 700 Non-HK and 50 HK posts.

What is the qualification for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment?

Candidates must have passed SSLC or an equivalent examination by the last date of application.

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

The latest extended last date for online application is 30 October 2026.

What is the age limit for KFD Forest Observer?

The minimum age is 18 years. The maximum age varies according to category, with the provided general limits being 30 years for General candidates, 32 years for IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB and 33 years for SC/ST/Category-I, subject to the specified relaxation provisions.

What is the salary of a KFD Forest Observer?

The Forest Observer pay scale is ₹27,500 to ₹46,675.

Is there a written exam for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment?

The provided selection process does not mention a written examination. Candidates are shortlisted based on SSLC marks for physical tests, followed by physical tests, document verification, medical examination and final selection.

What is the physical test for Forest Observer?

The recruitment includes a Physical Standard Test, Physical Endurance Test and Physical Efficiency Test.

Male candidates must complete a 1600 metre run in 7 minutes, while female and ex-servicemen candidates must complete a 1000 metre run in 6 minutes.

How many Physical Efficiency Test events must a candidate qualify in?

Candidates must qualify in at least three of the five prescribed events.

What is the KFD Forest Observer application fee?

The fee is ₹200 for male General/IIA/IIB/IIIA/IIIB candidates and ₹100 for women/third-gender candidates in those categories. SC/ST/Category-I candidates pay ₹100 for males and ₹50 for women/third-gender candidates. Persons with disabilities are exempted.

Where can I apply for KFD Forest Observer Recruitment?

Candidates can apply through the official Karnataka Forest Department recruitment portal linked in the Important Links section above.

Conclusion

KFD Forest Observer Recruitment 2026 is a major Karnataka Government recruitment opportunity for SSLC-qualified candidates, with 750 Forest Observer/Forest Watcher Group D vacancies across the state.

The selection process is particularly important because candidates must satisfy the prescribed physical standards, Physical Endurance Test and Physical Efficiency Test, in addition to meeting the SSLC and age requirements.

The online application deadline has been extended to 30 October 2026. Candidates interested in the recruitment should carefully check their eligibility, physical standards, reservation requirements and documents before submitting the application.

Candidates should use only the official Karnataka Forest Department recruitment portal for applying and should regularly check the official website for hall-ticket, physical-test and subsequent recruitment updates.