The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has officially released the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Recruitment Notification 2026, inviting applications for 80 prestigious Indian Forest Service Officer posts.
The Indian Forest Service (IFoS) is one of the three All India Services, alongside IAS and IPS, and is considered among the most respected and impactful careers in India. Let’s break down everything you need to know—eligibility, exam pattern, vacancies, dates, and how to apply—so you don’t miss this golden opportunity.
🌿 What Is UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS)?
The Indian Forest Service is responsible for managing India’s forests, wildlife, biodiversity, and ecological balance. As an IFS Officer, you’ll work at the grassroots and policy levels to protect natural resources, implement environmental laws, and lead conservation initiatives.
It’s not just a job—it’s a mission-driven career combining administration, science, leadership, and service to nature.
📌 UPSC IFS Recruitment 2026 – Key Highlights
-
Exam Name: Indian Forest Service Examination (IFoSE) 2026
-
Post Name: Indian Forest Service Officer
-
Total Vacancies: 80 (Approx.)
-
Apply Mode: Online
-
Application Start Date: 04 February 2026
-
Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026 (till 6:00 PM)
-
Preliminary Exam Date: 24 May 2026
-
Official Website: upsc.gov.in / upsconline.nic.in
📊 Category-wise Vacancy Details
| Category | Vacancies |
|---|---|
| UR | 33 |
| OBC | 21 |
| SC | 12 |
| ST | 06 |
| EWS | 08 |
| Total | 80 |
🔔 Vacancies are approximate and subject to change based on administrative requirements.
🎓 Educational Qualification (Eligibility)
To apply for UPSC IFS 2026, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least one of the following subjects:
-
Botany
-
Zoology
-
Chemistry
-
Physics
-
Mathematics
-
Statistics
-
Geology
-
Agriculture
-
Forestry
-
Engineering
-
Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science
📌 Degrees must be from a recognized university.
🎂 Age Limit (As on 01 August 2026)
-
Minimum Age: 21 Years
-
Maximum Age: 32 Years
Age Relaxation:
-
SC/ST: 5 Years
-
OBC: 3 Years
-
PwBD: Up to 10 Years
💰 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹100/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women | Nil |
✔️ Fee payment is online via debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.
🧪 UPSC IFS Selection Process 2026
The selection process is multi-stage and highly competitive:
-
Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026 (Common with IAS)
-
Indian Forest Service Main Examination (Written)
-
Interview / Personality Test
-
Medical & Physical Standards Test
Only candidates who qualify each stage move forward.
📝 UPSC IFS Preliminary Exam Pattern (2026)
(Common with Civil Services Examination)
| Paper | Subject | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | General Studies | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Paper II | CSAT (Qualifying) | 200 | 2 Hours |
-
CSAT qualifying marks: 33%
-
Negative marking: 1/3rd for wrong answers
-
Prelims marks not counted in final merit
📚 UPSC IFS Main Examination Pattern
| Paper | Marks |
|---|---|
| General English | 300 |
| General Knowledge | 300 |
| Optional Subject – Paper I | 200 |
| Optional Subject – Paper II | 200 |
| Optional Subject – Paper III | 200 |
| Optional Subject – Paper IV | 200 |
🧮 Total Written Marks: 1400
🧠 Interview / Personality Test
-
Marks: 300
-
Tests leadership, judgment, awareness, integrity, and suitability for public service.
🏆 Final Merit Total: 1400 Marks
🗓 Important Dates to Remember
-
Notification Released: 04 February 2026
-
Application Start Date: 04 February 2026
-
Last Date to Apply: 24 February 2026
-
Prelims Exam Date: 24 May 2026
⏰ Late applications will NOT be accepted.
🖥️ How to Apply for UPSC IFS Recruitment 2026
Follow these simple steps:
-
Visit upsconline.nic.in
-
Complete One-Time Registration (OTR/URN)
-
Fill the Common Application Form (CAF)
-
Select Indian Forest Service Examination 2026
-
Upload photograph, signature & documents
-
Pay the application fee (if applicable)
-
Submit the form before 24 Feb 2026 (6 PM)
✔️ Always download and save the application confirmation.
🌲 Why Choose Indian Forest Service?
-
Prestigious All India Service
-
Direct impact on environment & climate protection
-
Strong career growth & leadership roles
-
Attractive salary, perks, and job security
-
Opportunity to work in India’s most beautiful natural regions
🔗 Important Links
- Apply Online: Click here
- Official Notification PDF: Click here
- Official Website: Click here
Join Telegram Channel – Click Here
Sarkari Result – Click Here
Age Calculator – Click Here
✨ Final Words
The UPSC Indian Forest Service Examination 2026 is not just an exam—it’s a gateway to a life of purpose, power, and pride. If you have a science background and a passion for nature, this is your chance to serve India at the highest level.
