Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Last Date Extended for 675 Forest Observer Posts at aranya.gov.in

The Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) has extended the last date to apply online for its Recruitment 2026 for 675 Forest Observer (Group D) posts to September 7, 2026, at its official recruitment portal, aranya.gov.in. Candidates interested in these Group D positions across 11 forest circles in Karnataka now have additional time to complete their applications and fee payments.

This recruitment drive aims to fill critical Group D vacancies within the KFD, offering a significant opportunity for eligible candidates seeking government employment in the state’s forest sector. The extension provides a crucial window for applicants who may have missed the previous deadline, ensuring broader participation in the selection process.

Kfd Forest Observer Recruitment 2026: Important Dates

The KFD initially released the recruitment notification on July 20, 2026, with online applications commencing on August 1, 2026. The recent extension pushes both the application and fee payment deadlines to September 7, 2026, as confirmed by the department.

Karnataka Forest Department 2026: Vacancy Details and Eligibility

A total of 675 Forest Observer vacancies have been announced across various forest circles in Karnataka. Notably, Chamarajanagar Circle leads with 159 vacancies, followed by Mysore Circle with 121, and Bangalore Circle with 82. Kalaburgi Circle has 6 vacancies available. Candidates must have passed SSLC (Class 10) or an equivalent examination from a recognized board to be eligible for these positions.

Regarding age criteria, the maximum age for General (GM) category candidates is 30 years. The department has also provided a one-time 5-year relaxation for eligible applicants, further broadening the pool of potential candidates for these Group D roles.

Kfd Forest Observer 2026: Application Fee Structure

The application fee varies based on the candidate’s category. For General Category Male applicants, the fee is ₹200, while Female and Third Gender candidates in the General Category must pay ₹100. SC, ST, and Category-I Male candidates are required to pay ₹100, and Female/Third Gender candidates in these categories have a fee of ₹50. Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) are fully exempted from paying the application fee.

Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026: Selection Process and Pay Scale

The selection process for the Forest Observer (Group D) posts is distinct as it does not include a written examination. Instead, candidates will be selected based on their SSLC marks, followed by a Physical Standard Test (PST), a Physical Endurance Test (PET), and a final document verification stage. This multi-stage process ensures that selected candidates meet both academic and physical requirements for the role.

Selected candidates for the Forest Observer positions will receive a competitive pay scale ranging from ₹29,600 to ₹52,800. This attractive remuneration package is expected to draw a bunch of applicants, highlighting the value and importance of these roles within the Karnataka Forest Department.

How to Apply for Kfd Forest Observer Recruitment 2026?

Candidates who wish to apply for the Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 must do so through the official online portal before the extended deadline. The application process is straightforward and requires careful submission of details and payment of the applicable fee.

1. Go to the official website, aranya.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the ‘Recruitment’ section on the homepage.
3. Locate and click on the notification for ‘Karnataka Forest Department Recruitment 2026 for Forest Observer (Group D)’.
4. Register if you are a new user or log in with your credentials.
5. Fill out the application form with all required personal and educational details.
6. Upload scanned copies of necessary documents as per the specifications.
7. Pay the application fee online through the available payment gateway.
8. Review the application form carefully before final submission.
9. Download and print the submitted application form for future reference.

Kfd Recruitment: Other Important Information

In a related development, candidates who appeared for the Range Forest Officer posts written exam on July 12, 2024, can submit objections to the Key Answers. The deadline for submitting these objections is on or before August 23, 2026. This separate process pertains to a different recruitment drive and should not be confused with the ongoing Forest Observer recruitment.

Written by Aayush Kukreja

Aayush is a writer and content strategist who turns personal stories into brand narratives. With an experience spanning diverse industries, rely on his writing for simplifying complex subjects & get in-depth insights - always with sharp wit.

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