The Forest Department of India (Van Vibhag) has announced a major recruitment drive filling thousands of posts across India for various forest-related positions. The recruitment includes posts such as Forest Guard (Van Rakshak), Wildlife Guard / Ranger (Animal Ranger / Wild Animal Conservator), and other related positions
Particular Details Recruiter Forest Department of India Total Posts 15,500 Apply Mode Online Posts Names Forest Guard (Van Rakshak), Wildlife Guard / Ranger (Animal Ranger / Wild Animal Conservator)
Eligibility
Age Limit
Minimum: 18 y/o
Maximum: 40 y/o
Educational / Skill Qualification
10th class pass (or 12th / graduation depending on post) from a recognized board.
Post wise / Salary
Total Posts : 15,500 Pay Scale : Level-7 (₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400 per month + allowances
Application Fee
General / OBC: ₹185
SC / ST: ₹95
Payment modes: Net banking, credit/debit card, UPI, etc.
Documents
Passport-size photograph & signature (digital copy)
Educational certificate(s) — 10th / 12th / Graduation mark sheets and certificates
Category / caste certificate (if applicable)
Domicile / residence certificate (as required by state)
Valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / PAN / etc.)
Other relevant documents such as caste / disability certificates, domicile, etc.
Important Dates
Event Date / Status Notification release Expected January 2026 (as per some reports) Online Apply Start 18 January 2026 (tentative) Last date to apply 30 days after notification (i.e. roughly mid-February 2026) Application correction deadline ~ 20 February 2026 (in one source) Exam date Not yet announced — “Update soon” status
Selection Process & Physical Test
Selection generally involves Written Examination + Physical Efficiency Test (PET) + Document Verification .
For example (in 2025 cycle), PET requirement for male candidates: 25 km walk in 4 hours; for female candidates: 16 km in 4 hours
Medical fitness and other standard checks apply.
Application Process Van Vibhag Bharti 2026
Regularly check the official website of the Forest Department (for your state) for the official notification.
Once “Apply Online” link is live, register and fill the online form with correct details.
Upload scanned documents (photo, signature, certificates, etc.) as per specification.
Pay the application fee online (if applicable).
Submit the form and take a printout for future reference.
After selection exam & PET, shortlisted candidates will be called for document verification, medical exam, etc.