Forest Ranger

01. What is a Forest Ranger in Government?

A Forest Ranger is a government official responsible for managing and protecting forests, wildlife, and natural resources. They enforce forestry laws, prevent illegal logging and poaching, and oversee conservation efforts.

02. Education Eligibility

The minimum educational qualification required is typically a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Botany, Zoology, or other natural sciences. Specific qualifications vary by state or central government recruitment guidelines.

03. Handicapped Eligibility

Eligibility for physically handicapped candidates depends on the nature of the disability. Generally, the job involves strenuous physical activities, so only certain categories of disability may be considered eligible. Specific guidelines are mentioned in the recruitment notification.

04. Age

  • Minimum Age: 18–21 years (varies by state/central government).
  • Maximum Age: 30–40 years (varies; age relaxation is provided for reserved categories, ex-servicemen, etc.).

05. Physical Eligibility

Physical fitness is crucial for a Forest Ranger. Typical requirements include:

  • Height: Minimum of 163 cm for men and 150 cm for women (relaxation for specific categories).
  • Chest: Minimum chest girth of 79 cm (unexpanded) and 84 cm (expanded).
  • Endurance Test: Walking test (e.g., 25 km in 4 hours for men, 16 km in 4 hours for women).

06. Pay Grade

The pay grade for a Forest Ranger varies by state but typically falls in the Pay Level 6–8 as per the 7th Pay Commission. The starting salary ranges from ₹35,400 to ₹1,12,400, excluding allowances.

07. Ex-Soldier

Ex-servicemen are often given age relaxation and preference in selection as per government norms. Specific provisions vary by recruitment body.

08. Reservation

Reservations are provided for SC/ST, OBC, EWS, and other eligible categories as per government policies. The percentage of reservation varies by state and is mentioned in the recruitment notification.

09. Sportsperson

Meritorious sportspersons may get preference or relaxation in eligibility under the Sports Quota, depending on government rules.

10. Promotion in Career

Promotion avenues include:

  • Forest Ranger → Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) → Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF).
    Promotions depend on seniority, performance, and qualifying departmental exams.

11. Special Eligibility in Person

Candidates with specialized skills such as knowledge of wildlife conservation, forestry management, GIS mapping, or relevant certifications may have an advantage.

12. What Work Will I Have to Do at My Workplace?

  • Supervising forest areas and ensuring protection of wildlife and resources.
  • Preventing illegal activities like poaching and deforestation.
  • Conducting surveys, managing forest staff, and implementing conservation projects.
  • Coordinating with local communities for sustainable resource use.

13. Which Department Does This Recruitment with Notification Original Website Link?

Recruitment is typically conducted by:

  • State Public Service Commission (SPSC) for state-level recruitment.
  • Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for central positions.
    Notification is released on the respective websites (e.g., https://www.upsc.gov.in/ or state-specific PSC websites).

14. In Which Department Do You Join?

Forest Rangers typically join the Department of Forest and Wildlife, which operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) or state government departments.