GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 – Apply Online for 26 Forest Service Posts
Sarkari Result All - The Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) has announced a significant opportunity for candidates aspiring to join the forestry sector in Gujarat. The commission released an official notification for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, seeking applications for 26 vacancies for the posts of Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) and Range Forest Officer (RFO). This recruitment drive is highly anticipated among candidates with a strong background in science, agriculture, or forestry. The online application process for these prestigious Gujarat Forest Service posts officially commenced on 01 April 2026.
This article provides a detailed overview of the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, covering essential information such as eligibility criteria, selection process, important dates, application procedure, and pay scale. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to read this guide carefully before proceeding with their applications on the official GPSC website. The recruitment aims to strengthen the state's forest services with dedicated and qualified professionals, who will be responsible for the conservation and management of forest resources in Gujarat.
The Gujarat Public Service Commission has invited online applications from eligible candidates. The last date to apply is yet to be announced, but candidates should ensure they complete the application process promptly to avoid last-minute technical difficulties. The GPSC notification 2026 for these Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer roles represents a chance to secure a coveted position within the state government, offering excellent career progression and attractive remuneration.
Sarkari Result All is dedicated to providing accurate and timely updates on government job recruitments, results, and admit cards. Candidates can bookmark this page for all future updates related to the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, including exam dates and detailed syllabus information.
GPSC Recruitment 2026 – Key Information Summary
The following table provides a concise summary of the key details regarding the GPSC Forest Service Recruitment 2026. This information is based on the official notification released by the Gujarat Public Service Commission for the Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer posts.
| Recruitment Body | Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) |
|---|---|
| Name of Post | Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) & Range Forest Officer (RFO) |
| Total Posts | 26 |
| Application Start Date | 01 April 2026 |
| Application Last Date | Not Available |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | gpsc.gujarat.gov.in |
Vacancy Details for GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026
A total of 26 vacancies have been announced under this GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 drive. These vacancies are distributed across two distinct posts: Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer. While both roles are essential for forest conservation, they differ in seniority and responsibilities. The Assistant Conservator of Forests is generally a higher-grade post compared to the Range Forest Officer. The exact distribution of vacancies between these two posts will be detailed in the official notification, including reservations for various categories (SC, ST, SEBC, EWS, and general category candidates).
Candidates applying for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 should review the official notification to understand the detailed breakdown of vacancies per category. Securing one of these 26 Forest Service posts requires success in a rigorous selection process, starting with the preliminary examination.
Eligibility Criteria for GPSC Forest Service Posts
Before applying for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, candidates must meet the specific eligibility criteria set by the Gujarat Public Service Commission. The criteria typically cover educational qualifications, age limits, and physical standards. These standards are crucial for ensuring candidates are well-suited for the challenging nature of forest service work.
Educational Qualification:
For both the Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer posts, candidates must possess a relevant bachelor's degree from a recognized university. The specific fields of study usually include science, agriculture, and forestry. Candidates typically need a degree in one of the following subjects:
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Zoology
- Agriculture
- Forestry
- Horticulture
- Veterinary Science
- Environmental Science
Candidates must ensure that their degree aligns with the requirements specified in the official GPSC notification 2026. A higher degree or specialization in forestry-related subjects provides a significant advantage during the selection process for the Assistant Conservator of Forests role.
Age Limit:
The age limit for candidates applying for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 generally falls within a specific range, usually between 21 and 35 years. Age relaxation rules apply for candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC/ST/SEBC) as per government norms. The specific cut-off date for calculating the age limit will be mentioned in the detailed notification. Candidates must confirm their eligibility based on their date of birth before applying for the 26 Forest Service posts.
Physical Standards:
Due to the nature of the work involved in forest conservation, physical fitness standards are mandatory for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026. Candidates must meet minimum height and chest measurement requirements. There are typically different standards for male and female candidates. Additionally, a physical efficiency test (PET) is usually part of the selection process, which often involves a walking test where candidates must cover a set distance within a specified time frame. For instance, male candidates might be required to walk 25 km in 4 hours, while female candidates might need to walk 14 km in 4 hours. These physical tests are critical for assessing a candidate's physical endurance for field duties as a Range Forest Officer or Assistant Conservator of Forests.
Selection Process for GPSC ACF RFO Posts 2026
The selection process for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 is multi-staged and designed to evaluate candidates' knowledge, skills, and physical fitness. The process typically consists of the following phases:
1. Preliminary Examination: The initial stage is a preliminary exam, which serves as a screening test to narrow down the pool of candidates. This exam is usually objective type (multiple choice questions) and covers general studies, aptitude, and basic knowledge relevant to forestry and environment. Candidates must clear this stage to be eligible for the main examination.
2. Main Examination: The main examination is more comprehensive and often consists of descriptive papers. The papers typically include General Studies, a language paper (e.g., Gujarati and English), and specific papers related to forestry, botany, or other optional subjects chosen by the candidate. The performance in the main examination holds significant weight in determining the final selection. The in-depth nature of this exam assesses the candidate's core knowledge required for a role like Assistant Conservator of Forests.
3. Physical Standard Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET): Candidates who successfully pass the main examination must undergo physical evaluation. The PST verifies the required height and chest measurements, while the PET tests physical endurance through activities like a long-distance walk. Failure to meet these physical standards results in disqualification from the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, regardless of performance in written exams.
4. Interview/Personality Test: The final stage of selection is a personal interview conducted by the Gujarat Public Service Commission board. The interview assesses the candidate's communication skills, general awareness, suitability for the post, and overall personality. The interview carries a specific weightage and helps determine the final merit list for the 26 Forest Service posts.
How to Apply Online for GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026
Candidates interested in applying for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 can follow these steps to complete the online application process. The application window opened on 01 April 2026. It is essential to fill the form carefully and accurately, as errors may lead to rejection.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
- Visit the official website of the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) at gpsc.gujarat.gov.in.
- Navigate to the "Recruitment" or "Current Advertisement" section on the homepage.
- Find the link specifically for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 notification. Read the official notification thoroughly to understand all requirements and instructions.
- For first-time applicants, create a new profile by registering for One Time Registration (OTR). If already registered, log in using your credentials.
- Fill in all personal details, educational qualifications, and other requested information in the online application form for the Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer posts.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, including photograph, signature, educational certificates, and category certificate (if applicable), as per the specifications mentioned in the notification.
- Pay the required application fee through the designated online payment gateway. The fee structure varies depending on the candidate's category.
- Review all information entered in the application form before final submission. Once submitted, make sure to save and print a copy of the completed application form for future reference.
Candidates should ensure they apply well before the closing date to avoid any issues related to server overload or payment failures during the final hours of the application period for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026.
Salary Structure and Job Profile for ACF and RFO Posts
The posts of Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer offer attractive salary packages and comprehensive benefits. The pay scale for these roles in the Gujarat Forest Service Recruitment typically follows the state government's pay matrix, offering good financial stability and career growth opportunities.
Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Salary and Profile:
An Assistant Conservator of Forests is a Class I Gazetted Officer post. The salary for an ACF is high, often corresponding to Level 10 or higher in the pay matrix, with basic pay generally ranging from ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 per month, plus allowances. The responsibilities of an ACF include managing a forest division, supervising Range Forest Officers, overseeing conservation projects, implementing government policies related to forestry and wildlife protection, and representing the department at higher levels. This position requires strong leadership skills and administrative capabilities.
Range Forest Officer (RFO) Salary and Profile:
The Range Forest Officer post is typically a Class II Gazetted Officer role. The pay scale for RFOs is generally in Level 9, with basic pay ranging from ₹53,100 to ₹1,67,800 per month, plus allowances. A Range Forest Officer is responsible for managing a specific forest range, which is a subdivision of a forest division. The job profile includes field duties such as patrolling, implementing forest protection laws, supervising forest guards, managing local resources, and resolving conflicts related to human-wildlife interaction within their range. The role requires extensive fieldwork and close interaction with local communities.
Both posts offer opportunities for promotion based on performance and experience, allowing candidates to advance to higher positions like Deputy Conservator of Forests and further within the Gujarat Forest Service.
Important Dates for GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026
Candidates must keep track of the following important dates related to the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026. This information will guide candidates through the application process and prepare them for upcoming examination dates.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 01 April 2026 |
| Application Last Date | Not Available |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | Not Available |
| Preliminary Exam Date | Not Available |
| Main Exam Date | Not Available |
Sarkari Result All Updates on GPSC Recruitment
For more details on the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, including the official notification PDF, syllabus, exam pattern, and admit card release dates, candidates are advised to regularly visit the official Sarkari Result All website at https://www.sarkariresultall.in/. We provide comprehensive updates on all government job notifications. Candidates can ensure they are fully prepared for the GPSC Forest Service Recruitment by staying informed through our platform.
The GPSC notification 2026 for these 26 Forest Service posts presents a valuable opportunity for eligible individuals. The roles of Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer are critical for environmental preservation, and selection is highly competitive. Therefore, candidates should start their preparations immediately based on the anticipated exam pattern and syllabus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026?The official notification from the Gujarat Public Service Commission has specified the start date for online applications as 01 April 2026. However, the exact closing date for applications has not been officially announced yet. Candidates should monitor the official GPSC website or platforms like Sarkari Result All for updates regarding the last date.
How many vacancies are available in the GPSC Forest Service Recruitment 2026?According to the short information released by GPSC, there are a total of 26 vacancies for the posts of Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer combined. The detailed distribution of these posts between the two roles will be available in the full official notification.
What are the educational qualifications required for the ACF and RFO posts?To be eligible for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Science (Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Zoology, etc.), Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, or Environmental Science from a recognized university.
What is the selection process for the Assistant Conservator of Forests and Range Forest Officer posts?The selection process for the GPSC Forest Service Recruitment typically involves multiple stages. These stages include a Preliminary Examination (screening test), a Main Examination (descriptive test), a Physical Standard Test (PST) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET), followed by a final interview or personality test. Candidates must clear each stage to progress further in the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026.
Is there a physical standard test for this recruitment?Yes, physical standards are a mandatory part of the eligibility criteria for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026. Candidates must meet specific minimum height and chest measurement requirements. Additionally, a physical efficiency test (PET), often involving a timed walk over a long distance, is conducted to assess physical fitness for field duties.
Are the posts of ACF and RFO Group A or Group B positions?The post of Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) is generally categorized as a Group A or Class I Gazetted Officer post, while the Range Forest Officer (RFO) post is typically classified as a Group B or Class II Gazetted Officer post. Both roles are highly respected government positions within the Gujarat Forest Service Recruitment.
Where can I find the official notification and apply online for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026?The official notification for the GPSC ACF RFO Recruitment 2026 can be found on the official website of the Gujarat Public Service Commission at gpsc.gujarat.gov.in. Applications must be submitted online through the same portal by following the registration and application procedure outlined in the notification.