The forest service employment landscape in Odisha is witnessing one of the largest recruitment drives in recent years as the Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) has officially announced the Combined Recruitment Examination (CRE) 2025-II for Forest Guard and Forester positions.
The Odisha Forest Department Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 represents a golden employment opportunity for 10th Pass candidates seeking stable state government employment in the prestigious Odisha Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department. With a massive total of 896 vacancies for the Forest Guard post alone, this recruitment drive is the largest forest sector hiring initiative in Odisha in recent memory .
This comprehensive guide provides an exhaustive breakdown of the Odisha Forest Department Forest Guard Recruitment 2026, including complete vacancy distribution for Forest Guard (896 posts), detailed salary structure with monthly pay of ₹19,900 in Pay Level 4 (7th CPC), eligibility parameters including 10th Pass requirement and age limits of 18-32 years (with relaxations up to 38 years), the three-stage selection process, physical standards required for male and female candidates, and the complete application process through the official OSSSC portal at osssc.gov.in.
Understanding the Odisha Forest Department and Forest Guard Role in 2026
The Odisha Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department is one of the largest state forest departments in India, managing extensive forest cover across the state. Odisha boasts of approximately 52,000 square kilometers of forest area, including vital wildlife habitats such as the Simlipal Tiger Reserve, Bhitarkanika National Park, Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chilika Lake. The Forest Guard is the frontline warrior in this conservation effort.
What is a Forest Guard?
A Forest Guard is a Group C state government employee responsible for the protection, conservation, and management of forests and wildlife within their designated beat or range. Unlike administrative desk jobs, the Forest Guard role requires extensive fieldwork in forest terrains, often involving patrolling, surveillance, and interaction with local communities. The position demands physical fitness, stamina, and a genuine commitment to environmental protection.
Key Responsibilities of an Odisha Forest Guard
Forest Guards in Odisha are expected to perform the following duties:
- Forest and Wildlife Protection: Conduct regular patrols of designated forest beats to prevent illegal activities such as poaching, timber smuggling, and encroachment. Report any violations to senior forest officers.
- Fire Prevention and Control: Monitor forest areas for signs of fires during dry seasons. Participate in firefighting operations when forest fires break out.
- Biodiversity Monitoring: Assist in wildlife censuses, track animal movements, and report sightings of rare or endangered species. Maintain basic records of flora and fauna in the beat area.
- Community Engagement: Interact with local villagers and tribal communities residing near forest areas. Educate them about forest conservation and sustainable practices.
- Assist in Research and Development: Support forest range officers and foresters in implementing plantation drives, soil conservation projects, and habitat improvement initiatives.
- Court Proceedings: Assist in the preparation of cases against poachers and timber smugglers. Appear as a witness in forest court proceedings when required.
- Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintain basic forest infrastructure including watchtowers, check posts, and trekking paths within the beat area.
Types of Recruitment at Odisha Forest Department
The Odisha Forest Department hires through the OSSSC (Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission) for Group C positions. The recruitment for 2026 covers:
- Direct Recruitment (Through OSSSC CRE): The Combined Recruitment Examination (CRE) is the primary pathway for Forest Guard positions. This is a Direct Selection process with no interview—selection is based on written exam, physical tests, and document verification .
- Departmental Promotion: For higher positions like Forester and Range Officer, existing Forest Guards are promoted based on seniority and departmental examinations.
- Contractual/Outsourced (Limited): Very limited contract positions exist for specific projects, but the majority of Forest Guard posts are regular state government positions.
Official Notification and Vacancy Details
The Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) released the short notification on December 24, 2025, followed by the detailed notification on December 30, 2025 . The recruitment drive is officially known as the Combined Recruitment Examination (CRE) 2025-II .
Key Dates at a Glance
Post-Wise Vacancy Distribution
The total number of vacancies announced for the Combined Recruitment Examination is 1,518, which includes Forest Guard, Forester, and Excise Constable posts . For the Forest Department specifically, the breakdown is as follows:
| Post Name | Total Vacancies | Department |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Guard | 896 | Forest, Environment & Climate Change Dept |
| Forester | 47 | Forest, Environment & Climate Change Dept |
| Excise Constable | 575 | Excise Department |
| Grand Total | 1,518 |
Category-Wise Vacancy for Forest Guard (896 Posts)
According to official sources, the OSSSC Forest Guard vacancies are distributed across categories as follows :
| Category | UR (General) | ST | SC | SEBC | Total Forest Guard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vacancies | 356 | 134 | 86 | 31 | 896 |
| Women Reservation (indicative) | *171* | *64* | *41* | *13* | – |
Note: Women candidates are eligible and encouraged to apply. The table above includes a separate allocation for women within each category as per state government norms .
Salary Structure for Odisha Forest Guard Post 2026
The compensation for an Odisha Forest Guard is as per the 7th Central Pay Commission (7th CPC) pay matrix adopted by the Odisha state government. The Forest Guard position falls under Pay Level 4 of the state pay matrix.
Forest Guard Salary Breakdown (Starting Pay)
Career Progression for Forest Guard
Additional Benefits for Odisha Forest Guards
- Government Quarters: Accommodation is often provided in forest areas (subject to availability)
- Medical Coverage: Free medical treatment at government hospitals
- Leave Benefits: Earned leave, casual leave, and medical leave
- Travel Allowance: For official tours and postings
- Risk Allowance: Special allowance for personnel posted in high-risk forest areas
- Uniform and Equipment: Free issue of uniform, boots, and field equipment
- Pension Benefits: As per Odisha Civil Services Rules
Eligibility Criteria for Odisha Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
To successfully secure a Forest Guard Post in the Odisha Forest Department, candidates must satisfy specific educational, age, physical, and language standards as per the OSSSC official notification.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Important Note: Unlike the Forester post which requires +2 Science, the Forest Guard position is specifically designed for 10th Pass candidates, making it accessible to a wider pool of applicants from rural areas .
Age Requirements (as on 1st January 2025)
Source: OSSSC recruitment notification
Physical Standards (Physical Measurement Test – PMT)
Candidates must meet the following minimum physical standards to qualify for the Forest Guard position. These standards are strictly enforced during the Physical Measurement Test (PMT).
For Male Candidates:
| Parameter | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Height | 168 cm (5 feet 6 inches) |
| Chest (Unexpanded) | 79 cm (without expansion) |
| Chest (Expanded) | 84 cm (with 5 cm expansion minimum) |
| Weight | Proportionate to height |
For Female Candidates:
| Parameter | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| Height | 158 cm (5 feet 2 inches) |
| Weight | Proportionate to height |
Physical Efficiency Test (PET) Standards
The Physical Efficiency Test is qualifying in nature. Candidates must complete the following tasks within the specified time limits to pass.
For Male Candidates:
| Event | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Running | 1600 meters (1.6 km) within 6 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Long Jump | 3.65 meters (minimum) |
| High Jump | 1.2 meters (minimum) |
For Female Candidates:
| Event | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Running | 1000 meters (1 km) within 6 minutes and 30 seconds |
| Long Jump | 2.75 meters (minimum) |
| High Jump | 0.9 meters (minimum) |
Important Notes for PET:
- The PET is a qualifying stage; passing is mandatory for selection
- Proper sports attire is required for the physical test
- Candidates are advised to practice well in advance
- No relaxation in physical standards for any category
Additional Eligibility Requirements
Documentation Requirements
Candidates must keep the following documents ready for online application and future document verification:
Selection Process for Odisha Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
The selection process for Odisha Forest Guard is a three-stage Direct Selection process with no interview. Candidates must qualify in all three stages to be considered for final selection .
Overview of Selection Stages
| Stage | Name | Type | Qualifying/Scoring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Computer Based Written Examination (CBRE) | Scoring | Marks count for merit |
| Stage 2 | Physical Measurement Test (PMT) + Physical Efficiency Test (PET) | Qualifying | Pass/Fail |
| Stage 3 | Document Verification (DV) | Qualifying | Verification of original documents |
Stage 1: Computer Based Written Examination (CBRE)
The written examination is conducted online (Computer Based) across multiple centers in Odisha. The exam was scheduled from 16 April to 5 May 2026 .
Syllabus Distribution (Expected):
| Subject Area | Approximate Weightage |
|---|---|
| General Knowledge & Current Affairs | 30-35 marks |
| Basic Mathematics (10th Level) | 30-35 marks |
| General English & Odia Language | 30-35 marks |
| Reasoning & Logical Ability | 30-35 marks |
| General Science (10th Level) | 20-25 marks |
Minimum Qualifying Marks:
| Category | Qualifying Percentage |
|---|---|
| General / SEBC | 40% (60 marks out of 150) |
| SC / ST | 30% (45 marks out of 150) |
Stage 2: Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET)
Candidates who qualify in the written examination are called for the physical tests. These tests are qualifying in nature—candidates must pass them to proceed, but the marks do not add to the written exam score.
Physical Measurement Test (PMT):
- Height measurement (using standardized equipment)
- Chest measurement for male candidates (for male candidates only)
- Weight verification
Physical Efficiency Test (PET):
- Running event (1600m for males, 1000m for females) within specified time
- Long jump (3.65m for males, 2.75m for females)
- High jump (1.2m for males, 0.9m for females)
Important: Candidates are advised to wear proper sports attire for the physical tests. The PET is strictly timed, and failure to complete within the time limit results in disqualification.
Stage 3: Document Verification (DV)
Candidates who clear both the written exam and physical tests are called for Document Verification. Original documents are verified against the information provided in the online application.
Documents Verified at DV Stage:
- 10th Marksheet and Certificate (original)
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- Domicile Certificate
- Valid ID Proof
- Odia Language Proficiency proof
Final Merit List
The final merit list is prepared solely based on the marks obtained in the Written Examination (CBRE). Candidates who qualify in the physical tests and document verification are ranked in order of their written exam scores. Selection is then made from this merit list based on the number of vacancies and category-wise reservation .
Application Process for Odisha Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
Important Note: The application window for this recruitment drive is now closed. The last date for online registration was 15 February 2026, and the last date for application submission was 22 February 2026 . The information below is provided for reference for candidates who applied or for understanding the process for future recruitment cycles.
Application Timeline (For Reference)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Start | 07 January 2026 |
| Online Registration End | 15 February 2026 (Extended) |
| Application Submission End | 22 February 2026 (Extended) |
Application Fee Structure
Note: There is no application fee for any category for the OSSSC Forest Guard recruitment. This is a significant benefit for candidates from economically weaker sections .
Step-by-Step Application Guide (For Reference)
Step 1: Visit Official Website
Go to the official OSSSC website: www.osssc.gov.in
Step 2: Register/Re-register
- Click on “How do I register/re-register/apply” on the homepage
- New users: Click “Apply Online” to register
- Already registered users: Log in and select “Re-registration” under the Applicant Menu
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Log in using your credentials
- Fill in all required personal and educational details accurately
- Information must match your documents exactly
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of:
- Recent passport-size colored photograph (20kb to 100kb)
- Full specimen signature (20kb to 50kb)
- Relevant certificates and mark sheets
Step 5: Review and Submit
- Carefully review all information before final submission
- Make corrections if necessary
- Submit the online application form
Step 6: Print Confirmation
- Download and print the confirmation page
- Keep a copy for future reference
Important Dates for Current Recruitment Cycle (2026)
Application Links and Official Resources
Official Websites:
- OSSSC Official Website: www.osssc.gov.in
- OSSSC Recruitment Section: www.osssc.gov.in (Check “Recruitment News”)
- Odisha Forest Department Website: www.odishaforest.in
Admit Card Download (Active as of April 2026):
- Visit www.osssc.gov.in
- Click on “Admit Card” section
- Select “Forest Guard/Forester Admit Card 2026”
- Enter Registration Number and Date of Birth
Job Portals for Odisha Government Jobs:
- Naukri India – Odisha Govt Jobs – https://www.naukri.com/
- Indeed India – Forest Guard Jobs – https://www.indeed.com
- Apna Jobs – Odisha Recruitment – https://www.apna.co
Important Updates: Admit Card and Exam Schedule (April-May 2026)
The OSSSC has released the admit card for the Forest Guard and Forester examination on 09 April 2026. The Computer Based Recruitment Examination (CBRE) commenced on 16 April 2026 and will continue until 05 May 2026 .
How to Download Admit Card (For Candidates Who Applied)
- Visit the official OSSSC website: www.osssc.gov.in
- Click on the “Admit Card” or “Recruitment News” section on the homepage
- Find and click on the link for “Forest Guard / Forester Admit Card 2026”
- Enter your Registration Number and Date of Birth
- Click the submit button to view your admit card
- Download the admission card and print a clear copy for exam day
Important Exam Day Instructions:
- Carry a printed copy of the admit card to the exam centre
- Carry a valid photo ID proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card)
- Affix a recent passport-size photograph on the admit card
- Arrive at the exam centre at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled time
- Electronic devices (mobile phones, smartwatches) are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall
Salary and Post Breakdown Table
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Odisha Forest Guard application still open in May 2026?
No, the online registration for OSSSC Forest Guard recruitment closed on 15 February 2026, and the application submission deadline was 22 February 2026. The written examination is currently ongoing from 16 April to 5 May 2026 .
2. What is the salary for an Odisha Forest Guard?
An Odisha Forest Guard receives a starting basic pay of ₹19,900 per month under Pay Level 4 of the 7th CPC state pay matrix. With allowances like Dearness Allowance (45%) and House Rent Allowance, the total in-hand salary is approximately ₹28,000 to ₹32,000 per month .
3. What qualifications are required for Odisha Forest Guard?
Candidates must have passed the High School Certificate Examination (10th Pass) from a recognized board or institution. Additionally, they must be able to read, write, and speak Odia .
4. What is the age limit for Odisha Forest Guard recruitment?
The minimum age is 18 years and the maximum age is 32 years for General category candidates. Age relaxation is available: 3 years for SEBC, 5 years for SC/ST, and 10 years for PwD candidates .
5. What is the physical standard required for male Forest Guard candidates?
Male candidates must have a minimum height of 168 cm (5 feet 6 inches), chest of 79 cm (unexpanded) and 84 cm (expanded). They must complete 1600 meters running in 6 minutes 30 seconds .
6. What is the physical standard required for female Forest Guard candidates?
Female candidates must have a minimum height of 158 cm (5 feet 2 inches) and must complete 1000 meters running in 6 minutes 30 seconds .
7. How many vacancies are there for Forest Guard in Odisha 2026?
A total of 896 vacancies have been announced for the Forest Guard post under the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department of Odisha .
8. When is the OSSSC Forest Guard exam 2026?
The Computer Based Written Examination (CBRE) is scheduled from 16 April to 5 May 2026. The admit cards were released on 09 April 2026 .
9. Is there negative marking in the OSSSC Forest Guard exam?
Yes. There is a negative marking of 0.50 marks for each incorrect answer in the written examination .
10. What is the selection process for Odisha Forest Guard?
The selection process consists of three stages: (1) Computer Based Written Examination (CBRE), (2) Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and (3) Document Verification. There is no interview. Final selection is based on written exam marks after qualifying in the physical tests and document verification .
Conclusion
The Odisha Forest Department Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 represents one of the largest and most significant employment opportunities for 10th Pass candidates in the state government sector. With 896 vacancies for the Forest Guard position, the Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) has opened a gateway for aspiring candidates to join the prestigious Odisha Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department .
The selection process is a true Direct Selection with no interview—candidates are selected solely based on their performance in the Computer Based Written Examination, followed by qualifying Physical Measurement Test (PMT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), and Document Verification . The written exam consists of 150 objective questions for 150 marks, with a duration of 150 minutes and negative marking of 0.50 marks per wrong answer .
Disclaimer
- This article is for informational purposes only.
- Job availability, salary, and eligibility may vary depending on the employer, recruitment policy, and location.
- Readers are strongly advised to always verify all details through official recruitment channels before applying.