Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 750 Forest Watcher Posts | SSLC Pass Government Job Opportunity
If you are looking for a stable Karnataka Government job after completing SSLC, here is an excellent opportunity. The Karnataka Forest Department has officially announced a large-scale recruitment drive for 750 Forest Watcher posts across various forest divisions in the state. This recruitment offers a golden chance for young aspirants who are passionate about protecting forests, wildlife, and the environment while building a secure government career.
The online application process will begin on August 8, 2026, and interested candidates can submit their applications until August 31, 2026 through the official website of the Karnataka Forest Department. Eligible candidates will be selected through multiple stages, including merit, physical tests, and medical examination. Selected candidates will receive an attractive monthly salary ranging from ₹27,500 to ₹46,675.
In this article, you will find complete details regarding eligibility, educational qualification, age limit, application fee, selection process, salary, important dates, and the application procedure.
Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Karnataka Forest Department |
| Post Name | Forest Watcher |
| Total Vacancies | 750 Posts |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | Various Forest Zones of Karnataka |
| Starting Date to Apply | 08 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 August 2026 |
| Salary | ₹27,500 – ₹46,675 per month |
Recruitment Notification Details
The Karnataka Forest Department has invited online applications from eligible candidates to fill 750 Forest Watcher vacancies in different forest circles and divisions across Karnataka. This recruitment is aimed at strengthening forest protection activities and increasing manpower for wildlife conservation and environmental management.
Candidates who have successfully completed SSLC or an equivalent qualification from a recognized educational board are eligible to apply, provided they meet the prescribed age and physical standards.
Interested candidates should carefully read the official notification before filling out the online application form to ensure they satisfy all eligibility conditions.
Vacancy Details
The total vacancies have been divided into different cadres as follows:
| Cadre | Number of Posts |
|---|---|
| Residual Basic Cadre | 700 Posts |
| Kalyana Karnataka Cadre | 50 Posts |
| Total | 750 Posts |
Educational Qualification
Applicants seeking appointment as a Forest Watcher must have:
- Passed SSLC (10th Standard) from a recognized board.
- Candidates possessing an equivalent qualification recognized by the government are also eligible to apply.
No higher educational qualification is mandatory, making this recruitment an excellent opportunity for SSLC-qualified job seekers.
Age Limit
Candidates must satisfy the following age criteria as on the last date of application submission.
Maximum Age Limit
- General Category: 30 Years
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 32 Years
- Scheduled Caste (SC) / Scheduled Tribe (ST): 33 Years
The minimum age required for all applicants is 18 years.
Age Relaxation
The Karnataka Government has also provided age relaxation for eligible categories.
- Ex-servicemen are eligible for 3 years of age relaxation, excluding their period of military service.
- Candidates who have served as Forest Watchers in the Karnataka Forest Department for five years are eligible for higher age limits.
Revised maximum age for experienced Forest Watchers:
- General Category – 40 Years
- OBC Category – 42 Years
- SC/ST Category – 43 Years
Application Fee
Applicants are required to pay the prescribed application fee while submitting the online application.
Fee Structure
- General & OBC Male Candidates (2A, 2B, 3A, 3B): ₹200
- General & OBC Female / Third Gender Candidates: ₹100
- Category-I, SC/ST Male Candidates: ₹100
- Category-I, SC/ST Female / Third Gender Candidates: ₹50
- Persons with Disabilities (PwD): No Application Fee
The fee must be paid through the available online payment options.
Salary Details
Candidates selected for the Forest Watcher posts will receive an attractive salary under Karnataka Government pay rules.
Monthly Salary: ₹27,500 to ₹46,675
Apart from the basic pay, employees may also receive government-approved allowances and benefits as per departmental regulations.
Selection Process
The recruitment process consists of multiple stages to ensure that only physically fit and deserving candidates are appointed.
1. Merit List
Initially, candidates will be shortlisted based on the marks obtained in the SSLC examination.
A 1:20 merit list will be prepared for the next stage of selection.
2. Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
Candidates shortlisted through the merit list must satisfy the prescribed physical standards.
Male Candidates
- Minimum Height: 163 cm
- Chest Measurement: 79 cm
- Chest Expansion: 5 cm
Female Candidates
- Minimum Height: 150 cm
Only candidates meeting these standards will be allowed to proceed further.
3. Physical Endurance Test (PET)
Eligible candidates must complete the prescribed running event.
Male Candidates
- 1600 meters in 7 minutes
Female Candidates
- 1000 meters in 6 minutes
This stage evaluates the physical endurance and stamina required for forest duties.
4. Physical Fitness Test
Candidates will participate in five different fitness events, including:
- 100 Meter Race
- High Jump
- Long Jump
- Shot Put
- One additional prescribed physical activity
Applicants must successfully qualify in at least three events to move to the next stage.
5. Medical Examination
Candidates clearing all physical tests will undergo a medical examination to verify that they are medically fit for Forest Watcher duties.
The final selection will be based on overall performance and fulfillment of all eligibility conditions.
How to Apply Online
Candidates can complete the application process by following these steps:
- Visit the official Karnataka Forest Department website.
- Open the Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026 notification.
- Read the notification carefully before applying.
- Click on the online application link.
- Enter all personal, educational, and communication details correctly.
- Upload the required documents, including:
- SSLC Marks Card
- Age Proof
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Other required certificates
- Pay the application fee according to your category.
- Verify all entered information carefully.
- Submit the application form.
- Download and print the submitted application form for future reference.
Important Dates
- Online Application Starts: 08 August 2026
- Last Date to Apply Online: 31 August 2026
Online Application