Vacancies: 708 · Posts: 4 categories (Forest Guard & Wildlife Guard – General & Special Selection) · Type: Permanent · Mode: Online · Fee: ₹25 (processing) · Apply: 30 June–20 July 2026 · Salary: Level-2 (₹19,900–₹63,200) · Selection: PET-2025 shortlisting + Main Exam + PST/PET + Medical + DV · Location: Uttar Pradesh (Forest Department)
Uttar Pradesh’s Forest Department is filling 708 permanent posts of Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) and Wildlife Guard (Vanya Jeev Rakshak) through UPSSSC — but only candidates who appeared in the PET-2025 and hold a valid scorecard can apply.
The notification (Advt. No. 12-Pariksha/2026) was released on 23 April 2026. Applications open on 30 June 2026 and close on 20 July 2026. This is a direct recruitment drive for the forest and wildlife sector in Uttar Pradesh, offering Level-2 pay under the 7th Pay Commission.
Candidates targeting stable government jobs in the forest and environment sector with field duties should note the mandatory PET-2025 condition and the physical efficiency requirements. The main written exam will test subject knowledge in forest & environment along with basic maths, biology, computer awareness and Uttar Pradesh general knowledge.
Also Read: UPSSSC Uttar Pradesh Auditor & Assistant Accountant Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 1829 Posts
Who Should Apply? (Quick Eligibility Check)
- Intermediate (10+2) pass from UP Board or equivalent recognised board + valid UPSSSC PET-2025 scorecard → Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) / Wildlife Guard (Vanya Jeev Rakshak) posts – 708 posts (all categories)
- Candidates with preferential qualifications (Territorial Army 2 years service / NCC ‘B’ Certificate / recognised Computer Application certificate / State-level sportsperson) get preference in shortlisting
- Male & Female candidates meeting physical standards (height/chest for males, height/weight for females) → All 708 posts
- Ex-Servicemen, DFF, PwBD (as per UP Govt rules) and other horizontal reservation categories → Applicable across posts with age relaxation
Note: Candidates without a PET-2025 scorecard or those marked “Under Investigation” / “Provisional” are not eligible.
Important Dates – UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 23 April 2026 |
| Online Application Start | 30 June 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply & Pay Fee | 20 July 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Reconciliation & Correction | 27 July 2026 |
| Main Written Examination | To be notified (shortlisted candidates only) |
| PST / PET / Medical / DV | To be notified |
Quick Overview – UPSSSC Forest Guard & Wildlife Guard Recruitment 2026
- Organisation: Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC)
- Sector: State Government – Forest & Wildlife
- Recruitment Name: Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) & Wildlife Guard (Vanya Jeev Rakshak) Recruitment 2026
- Notification / Advertisement No.: 12-Pariksha/2026
- Post / Trade / Exam Name(s): Forest Guard (General Selection), Wildlife Guard (General Selection), Forest Guard (Special Selection), Wildlife Guard (Special Selection)
- Total Vacancies: 708
- Job Location: Uttar Pradesh (Forest Department postings across the state)
- Job Type / Nature: Permanent (Sthayi)
- Approx. Pay: Level-2 – ₹19,900 – ₹63,200 (7th CPC)
- Apply / Register Between: 30 June 2026 to 20 July 2026
- Apply Online: Available on upsssc.gov.in from 30 June 2026 (Log in with PET-2025 Registration Number)
- Notification PDF: Available on upsssc.gov.in
- Official Portal: https://upsssc.gov.in/
What Posts Are Available? – Post-wise Vacancy & Eligibility
Vacancy Interpretation Note: The 708 posts are divided into General Selection and Special Selection categories under the Forest Department. Forest Guard posts form the larger share. All posts require a valid PET-2025 scorecard for shortlisting. Physical standards and efficiency tests are qualifying in nature.
| Post Name | Vacancies | Qualification | Pay Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) – General Selection | 318 | Intermediate (10+2) + PET-2025 Scorecard | Level-2 (₹19,900–₹63,200) |
| Wildlife Guard (Vanya Jeev Rakshak) – General Selection | 10 | Intermediate (10+2) + PET-2025 Scorecard | Level-2 (₹19,900–₹63,200) |
| Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) – Special Selection | 329 | Intermediate (10+2) + PET-2025 Scorecard | Level-2 (₹19,900–₹63,200) |
| Wildlife Guard (Vanya Jeev Rakshak) – Special Selection | 51 | Intermediate (10+2) + PET-2025 Scorecard | Level-2 (₹19,900–₹63,200) |
| Total | 708 | — | — |
Preferential Qualification (any one): Territorial Army service (minimum 2 years) / NCC ‘B’ Certificate / Computer Application certificate from a recognised institution / Represented Uttar Pradesh in any sport/game.
Age Limit (as on 01 July 2026): 18–40 years (General/EWS). Relaxation: OBC (NCL) +3 years (up to 43), SC/ST +5 years (up to 45), UP Govt Employees +5 years, Ex-Servicemen as per rules.
Examples:
- ✅ A 39-year-old General category candidate born on 15 March 1987 — eligible (within 18–40 limit as on 01.07.2026).
- ❌ A 41-year-old General category candidate born on 10 June 1985 — not eligible (exceeds 40-year maximum).
Do you meet the age criteria? Use our Age Eligibility Calculator to check instantly.
What Is the Salary? – Pay Scale & Benefits – UPSSSC Forest Guard 2026
Simplified Monthly Salary Slip (Indicative In-Hand)
| Component | Estimated Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Basic Pay | ₹19,900 |
| Dearness Allowance (DA) – ~55% | ₹10,945 |
| House Rent Allowance (HRA) – 27% (Y-class cities) | ₹5,373 |
| Gross Salary | ₹36,218 |
| Less: NPS (10%) + Other deductions | ≈ ₹4,000–₹5,000 |
| Net Salary / In-Hand (Starting) | ₹31,000–₹33,000 |
Figures are indicative based on current 7th CPC rates (as of June 2026). Actual in-hand depends on city classification, tax slab and deductions. Calculate your exact take-home using our 7th CPC Salary Calculator.
Additional Benefits
- National Pension System (NPS)
- Medical facilities under state government rules
- Leave as per UP Government rules
- Other allowances as admissible
What Is the Application Fee? – UPSSSC Forest Guard 2026
Application Fee: ₹0 (Nil) for all categories. Online Processing Fee: ₹25 (payable by all candidates).
| Category | Application Fee | Processing Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| UR / OBC / SC / ST / EWS | ₹0 | ₹25 | ₹25 |
Payment Mode: Online through Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, UPI or SBI e-Challan on the UPSSSC portal.
How to Apply for UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026? (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Main Application Process on UPSSSC Portal (opens 30 June 2026)
- Visit the official portal: UPSSSC Official Website (application active from 30 June 2026 until 20 July 2026).
- Go to the “Live Advertisement” section and select Advertisement No. 12-Pariksha/2026.
- Log in using your PET-2025 Registration Number and authenticate via the OTP sent to your registered mobile/email.
- Your personal details from PET-2025 will auto-fill. Fill educational qualification details (Intermediate or equivalent).
- Select post preference (Forest Guard / Wildlife Guard – General or Special Selection).
- Upload/verify documents if required and indicate preferential qualification (if any).
- Pay the ₹25 processing fee online.
- Submit the form and download/print the application for future reference. Need help resizing photo/signature? Use our Photo & Signature Resizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a valid PET-2025 scorecard (immediate disqualification).
- Missing the correction window deadline (27 July 2026) for any errors.
- Not selecting the correct post preference or preferential qualification.
- Using incorrect login credentials from PET-2025.
UPSSSC वन रक्षक भर्ती 2026
उत्तर प्रदेश अधीनस्थ सेवा चयन आयोग (UPSSSC) ने वन विभाग के अंतर्गत वन रक्षक (वन रक्षक) और वन्य जीव रक्षक (वन्य जीव रक्षक) के 708 पदों के लिए भर्ती अधिसूचना जारी की है। आवेदन 30 जून 2026 से 20 जुलाई 2026 तक ऑनलाइन किए जा सकते हैं।
कौन आवेदन कर सकता है? इंटरमीडिएट (10+2) उत्तीर्ण अभ्यर्थी जिन्होंने PET-2025 परीक्षा दी है और स्कोरकार्ड प्राप्त किया है। आयु सीमा 18 से 40 वर्ष (सामान्य वर्ग)। आरक्षित वर्गों को छूट उपलब्ध।
चयन प्रक्रिया: PET-2025 स्कोर के आधार पर मुख्य परीक्षा के लिए शॉर्टलिस्टिंग, लिखित परीक्षा, शारीरिक मानक परीक्षा (PST), शारीरिक दक्षता परीक्षा (PET), चिकित्सा परीक्षा और दस्तावेज सत्यापन।
आवेदन कैसे करें? upsssc.gov.in पर PET-2025 रजिस्ट्रेशन नंबर से लॉगिन करें, शैक्षिक विवरण भरें, पोस्ट प्राथमिकता चुनें और ₹25 प्रोसेसिंग फीस जमा करें। विस्तृत जानकारी के लिए आधिकारिक अधिसूचना देखें।
How Are Candidates Selected? – UPSSSC Forest Guard 2026
Selection Stages
- Shortlisting for Main Exam — Based on normalised PET-2025 score (up to 15 times the number of vacancies).
- Main Written Examination — 100 marks, 120 minutes, objective type, negative marking ¼ per wrong answer. Subjects: Forest & Environment (50 marks), Elementary Maths & Biology (15), Computer & IT + Contemporary Tech (15), UP General Knowledge (20).
- Physical Standard Test (PST) — Height & chest measurement (qualifying).
- Physical Efficiency Test (PET) — Male: 25 km walk/run with 10 kg weight in 4 hours; Female: 14 km in 4 hours (qualifying).
- Medical Examination — By Medical Board (qualifying).
- Document Verification — Original documents check.
Why Does UPSSSC Matter? – Organisation Overview
UPSSSC – Overview
The Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC) conducts recruitment for Group ‘C’ posts in various departments of the Uttar Pradesh Government, including the Forest Department. It operates under the state government and follows transparent, merit-based selection processes.
Why Candidates Search for UPSSSC Jobs
UPSSSC recruitments offer stable state government jobs with Level-2 pay, pension under NPS, and field postings in the forest and wildlife sector. Many candidates prefer these roles for the combination of outdoor work and government job security. However, the mandatory PET-2025 condition and physical efficiency requirements filter out a large number of applicants. Competition remains high because vacancies are limited and the posts carry field liability across Uttar Pradesh districts.
Why this recruitment is attractive:
- Permanent government job with Level-2 pay scale
- Opportunity to work in forest and wildlife conservation
- Clear selection stages with PET-2025 already conducted
- Age relaxation and reservation as per UP Government rules
The SahisarkariJobs.in Analyst’s Take – Is This UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment for You?
This is a solid opportunity for 10+2 pass candidates who already cleared the PET-2025 and are targeting permanent posts in Uttar Pradesh’s Forest Department. With 708 vacancies spread across General and Special Selection categories, the numbers are decent for a state-level forest recruitment.
Best-fit profile: Candidates aged 18–40 with Intermediate qualification, a valid PET-2025 scorecard, and willingness to serve in field postings across Uttar Pradesh districts. Those with NCC ‘B’ Certificate, Territorial Army experience or state sports representation get an edge.
Who should skip: Candidates who did not appear in PET-2025 or do not hold a scorecard. Also skip if you are not prepared for the physical efficiency test (25 km walk for males with load) or prefer purely desk-based jobs.
Practical tip: Focus your main exam preparation on the Forest & Environment section (50 marks) — it carries the highest weight. Previous year forest-related questions from UPSSSC or similar state exams will help.
Comparison with alternatives: Unlike direct forest guard recruitments in other states that conduct fresh written exams from scratch, this drive leverages the already-conducted PET-2025 for shortlisting. This reduces the exam burden for those who performed well in PET-2025 but makes it inaccessible for fresh candidates who missed that cycle. If you have a strong PET-2025 score and meet the physical standards, this is worth applying for. If your PET score is borderline, prepare seriously for the main exam’s negative marking.
What Documents Are Required? – UPSSSC Forest Guard 2026
At the Time of Online Application
- PET-2025 Registration Number and Scorecard details
- Educational qualification certificates (Intermediate marksheet)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Preferential qualification certificate (if claiming)
At Document Verification / Joining
- All original educational certificates + photocopies
- PET-2025 Scorecard
- Category / Domicile / Ex-Servicemen / PwBD certificates
- Photo ID proof
- Medical fitness certificate (as required)
⚠️ Document Alert: Your PET-2025 scorecard is the most critical document. Without it, your application will be rejected at the shortlisting stage. Keep multiple printed copies safe.
What Happens After Selection? – UPSSSC Forest Guard 2026
- Shortlisted candidates receive intimation for the Main Written Examination.
- Candidates who clear the written exam are called for Physical Standard Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET).
- Qualifying candidates undergo Medical Examination by the designated Medical Board.
- The final merit list is prepared based on written exam marks (PET-2025 score is used only for shortlisting).
- Selected candidates receive appointment letters and are posted in various forest divisions across Uttar Pradesh.
- Probation period as per UP Government rules, followed by confirmation in service.
Contact & Helpline – UPSSSC
Contact details are available on the official website https://upsssc.gov.in/. Candidates should regularly check the website for updates on admit cards, exam dates and results. Helpline numbers (if published) will be available on the portal during the application period.
Important Links – UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
| Description | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | UPSSSC Official Website |
| Notification PDF | Download UPSSSC Forest Guard & Wildlife Guard Notification 2026 PDF (under Live Advertisement – Advt. No. 12-Pariksha/2026) |
| Apply Online | Available from 30 June 2026 on upsssc.gov.in (Login with PET-2025 Registration Number) |
| Result / Updates | Check on upsssc.gov.in regularly |
FAQs – UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
Q1: What is the last date to apply for UPSSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026?
A: 20 July 2026. No extension has been announced.
Q2: What is the age limit for UPSSSC Forest Guard posts?
A: 18 to 40 years as on 01 July 2026 for General/EWS. OBC gets 3 years relaxation (up to 43), SC/ST gets 5 years (up to 45). Age is calculated from the High School certificate.
Q3: Is there a written exam or is selection only on PET-2025 score?
A: PET-2025 score is used only for shortlisting. Shortlisted candidates must appear for a Main Written Examination (100 marks). Final merit is based on the written exam.
Q4: What is the salary of UPSSSC Forest Guard / Wildlife Guard?
A: Level-2 pay scale — Basic ₹19,900 to ₹63,200. Starting in-hand is approximately ₹31,000–₹33,000 per month depending on city classification and deductions.
Q5: Can final-year students apply?
A: No. You must have passed Intermediate (10+2) and possess the certificate as on the cut-off date mentioned in the notification.
Q6: Is this a permanent government job?
A: Yes. These are permanent posts under the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department with NPS pension benefits.
Q7: Can candidates from other states apply?
A: UP domicile is generally required for reservation benefits. Check the official notification for exact domicile rules.
Q8: Where will I be posted if selected?
A: Across various forest divisions in Uttar Pradesh. Field postings with transfer liability are part of the job.
Q9: What are the disadvantages of this recruitment?
A: Here’s the catch — you must have appeared in PET-2025. Fresh candidates who missed that exam cannot apply. The physical efficiency test (25 km walk for males) is also demanding for many.
Q10: Is the physical test qualifying or merit-based?
A: PST and PET are qualifying in nature. Final merit depends only on the written examination marks.
Q11: How much do Forest Guard posts pay in other states compared to UPSSSC?
A: UP Level-2 pay is comparable to many state forest departments. However, some states offer higher starting basic pay or faster promotions. Check specific state notifications for exact comparison.
Q12: Can I get a rural or remote posting?
A: Yes. Forest Department postings are often in rural and forest areas across Uttar Pradesh districts. Candidates unwilling to serve in such locations should reconsider.
Q13: What happens if I clear the written exam but fail the physical test?
A: You will be disqualified. Both PST and PET are mandatory qualifying stages before the medical examination and final selection.
Final Checklist – Is This the Right Job for You?
- You have a valid UPSSSC PET-2025 scorecard.
- You have passed Intermediate (10+2) from a recognised board.
- You meet the age limit (18–40 for General) as on 01 July 2026 and understand the relaxation rules.
- You are physically fit to clear the 25 km / 14 km walk test (male/female).
- You are ready for field postings in Uttar Pradesh forest areas.
- You can arrange all documents for verification within the given timeline.
📄 Source: Official notification released by UPSSSC on 23 April 2026 under Advertisement No. 12-Pariksha/2026. All details sourced from the official notification and consistent information published on the UPSSSC portal.
