KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
The Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) has officially released the KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026 Notification to fill 750 Forest Watcher (Group D) vacancies across various forest circles in Karnataka. This recruitment provides an excellent opportunity for 10th Pass (SSLC) candidates seeking a stable Karnataka Government job.
According to the notification, 700 vacancies are available under the General Recruitment category, while 50 vacancies are reserved for the Kalyana Karnataka (HK) Region. Candidates will be selected purely on the basis of SSLC Merit, Physical Standard Test (PST), Physical Endurance Test (PET), Physical Efficiency Test, and Document Verification. There will be no written examination.
The online application process will begin on 1 August 2026 and continue until 31 August 2026 through the official Karnataka Forest Department recruitment portal.
Karnataka-Forest-Department-750-Notification

KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Department | Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) |
| Post Name | Forest Watcher (Group D) |
| Total Vacancies | 750 |
| Qualification | SSLC / 10th Pass |
| Selection Process | Merit + PST + PET + Physical Efficiency Test |
| Salary | ₹27,500 – ₹46,675 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Job Location | Karnataka |
| Apply Starts | 1 August 2026 |
| Last Date | 31 August 2026 |
| Official Website | aranya.gov.in |
Short Information
The Karnataka Forest Department has invited online applications from eligible SSLC-qualified candidates for 750 Forest Watcher posts. The recruitment offers an attractive government salary, job security, and postings across multiple forest circles in Karnataka. Interested candidates should complete the online application before the closing date.
Important Dates FOR KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | 30 June 2026 |
| Circle Notifications | 20–21 July 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | 1 August 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 31 August 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 2 September 2026 |
Vacancy Details
| Forest Circle | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Bengaluru | 70 |
| Belagavi | 42 |
| Ballari | 63 |
| Chamarajanagar | 169 |
| Chikkamagaluru | 56 |
| Dharwad | 12 |
| Hassan | 30 |
| Kenara | 60 |
| Kodagu | 32 |
| Kalaburagi | 4 |
| Mangaluru | 54 |
| Mysuru | 120 |
| Shivamogga | 38 |
| Total | 750 |
Educational Qualification for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
Candidates must have passed:
- SSLC (10th Standard)
- Equivalent examination recognized by Karnataka Government
- NIOS/Open School Certificate is also acceptable
Age Limit for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
| Category | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| General | 30 Years |
| 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B | 32 Years |
| SC/ST/Category-1 | 33 Years |
| Forest Volunteers | Up to 40–43 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per Government Rules |
Minimum Age: 18 Years
Application Fee
| Category | Male | Female / Third Gender |
|---|---|---|
| General / 2A / 2B / 3A / 3B | ₹200 | ₹100 |
| SC/ST/Category-1 | ₹100 | ₹50 |
| PwD | Exempted | Exempted |
Salary for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
Selected candidates will receive a pay scale of:
₹27,500 – ₹46,675
Along with:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Medical Benefits
- Pension Benefits
- Other Karnataka Government Allowances
Selection Process
The recruitment will be conducted without any written examination.
Selection stages include:
- SSLC Merit List
- Physical Standard Test (PST)
- Physical Endurance Test (PET)
- Physical Efficiency Test
- Document Verification
- Final Merit List
Physical Stan1dards
Male Candidates
| Standard | General | Forest Tribe |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 163 cm | 152 cm |
| Chest | 79 cm | 74 cm |
| Expansion | 5 cm | 5 cm |
Female Candidates
| Standard | General | Forest Tribe |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 150 cm | 145 cm |
| Weight | 40 kg | 38 kg |
Also Read : UKSSSC Group C Recruitment 2026 Notification Out for 379 Accountant & Assistant Accountant Posts
Physical Endurance Test
| Candidate | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 1600 m | 7 Minutes |
| Female | 1000 m | 6 Minutes |
Physical Efficiency Test
| Event | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 100 m Race | 15 sec | 18.5 sec |
| High Jump | 1.20 m | 0.90 m |
| Long Jump | 3.80 m | 2.50 m |
| Shot Put | 5.60 m | 3.76 m |
| 800/200 m Race | 2:50 min | 40 sec |
Candidates must qualify in at least three events.
Documents Required for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
Applicants should keep the following documents ready:
- SSLC Marksheet
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport Size Photograph
- Signature
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Income Certificate
- PwD Certificate (if applicable)
- Forest Volunteer Certificate (if applicable)
How to Apply Online
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Karnataka Forest Department official website.
- Open the Recruitment (ನೇಮಕಾತಿ) section.
- Register using Aadhaar Number.
- Fill the online application form carefully.
- Upload required documents.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit the application.
- Download and print the confirmation page.
Why Apply for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026?
This recruitment offers a golden opportunity for candidates looking for Karnataka Government jobs after SSLC. The selection process is straightforward without any written exam, making it easier for deserving candidates to secure a permanent government position. With an attractive salary package, government allowances, and career growth opportunities, the Forest Watcher post is one of the most sought-after Group D jobs in Karnataka.
Important Links
| Details | Status |
| Official Notification | Click Here |
| Apply Online | Click Here |
| Official Website | Click Here |
FAQs for KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026
Q1. How many vacancies are available in KFD Forest Watcher Recruitment 2026?
Answer: A total of 750 vacancies have been announced.
Q2. What is the qualification required?
Answer: Candidates must have passed SSLC (10th Pass) from a recognized board.
Q3. Is there any written examination?
Answer: No. Selection is based on SSLC merit followed by physical tests.
Q4. What is the salary?
Answer: ₹27,500 to ₹46,675 plus government allowances.
Q5. What is the last date to apply?
Answer: 31 August 2026.
Q6. When will online applications begin?
Answer: 1 August 2026.
