Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026 – Apply Now
Dehradun, 09 February 2026 – The Uttarakhand Forest Department has announced a crucial recruitment drive for the post of Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.), offering an opportunity for qualified candidates to contribute to the conservation efforts in one of India's most ecologically significant regions. The official notification details the availability of two contractual/temporary fellowship vacancies specifically within the prestigious Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division, Jyotirmath. This recruitment drive, facilitated through the official channels of the Uttarakhand Forest Department, aims to bolster the scientific and administrative support required for effective forest management in the high-altitude ecosystem of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
The notification for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026 has been officially published, inviting applications from eligible and dedicated individuals. The posts are temporary in nature, structured as fellowships, typically lasting for a specified period, offering valuable experience in forest planning and management. The focus on Nanda Devi National Park underscores the department's commitment to implementing precise, science-backed working plans for this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Interested candidates should carefully review the complete details, eligibility criteria, and the offline application procedure provided in this comprehensive overview.
Sarkari Result All, a leading source for government job updates, provides candidates with essential information regarding this Uttarakhand Forest Department Recruitment 2026. The selection process for these Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.) roles is highly competitive and will likely involve an interview-based selection process, considering the specialized nature of the responsibilities. Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly, highlighting their academic achievements, practical field experience, and research capabilities relevant to forestry and wildlife management in challenging terrains like the Himalayas.
The total number of vacancies available in this specific notification is limited to 02 Working Plan Associate positions. Given the importance of the location—Nanda Devi National Park—and the highly sought-after nature of working in a protected area, a large number of applicants are expected to compete for these posts. Therefore, candidates must ensure their applications are complete and submitted well before the application deadline. The application mode for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Vacancy 2026 is offline, requiring applicants to prepare and send physical documents as specified in the official notification.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for young professionals and researchers passionate about forest conservation to work directly on high-impact projects. The Uttarakhand Forest Department is responsible for managing vast forest resources across the state, which plays a critical role in mitigating climate change, ensuring ecological balance, and supporting local livelihoods. The Working Plan Associate position is integral to this mission, bridging the gap between scientific research and practical implementation of conservation policies.
Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026 – Key Information Summary
| Recruitment Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Uttarakhand Forest Department |
| Post Name | Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.) |
| Total Vacancies | 02 Posts |
| Application Mode | Offline |
| Job Location | Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division, Jyotirmath, Uttarakhand |
| Job Type | Contractual/Temporary Fellowship |
| Category | Uttarakhand Government Jobs / Sarkari Result |
| Official Website | Official website (Specific link provided in notification) |
Important Dates and Application Timeline
Candidates applying for the Working Plan Associate positions must keep track of the key dates associated with the recruitment process. While specific dates are subject to change based on official announcements, the general timeline for this Uttarakhand Forest Department Recruitment 2026 is outlined below. It is essential for applicants to verify these dates from the official notification document before proceeding.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release Date | 29 January 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 01 February 2026 |
| Last Date for Offline Application Submission | 20 February 2026 |
| Interview/Selection Date | Notified Separately to Shortlisted Candidates |
Eligibility Criteria: Qualifications and Experience Required
The role of a Working Plan Associate requires specific academic qualifications and, ideally, practical experience related to forestry, wildlife management, or environmental science. The official notification from the Uttarakhand Forest Department specifies detailed eligibility criteria, which candidates must meet to be considered for the position. The primary requirements typically include:
Educational Qualifications:
- Candidates should possess a Master’s degree (M.Sc./M.F.Sc.) in Forestry, Wildlife Science, Environmental Science, Botany, Zoology, or a related field from a recognized university or institution.
- Preference may be given to candidates with qualifications in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and Remote Sensing, as these skills are crucial for modern working plan preparation.
- A strong academic record and knowledge of statistical analysis are often required for data processing related to forest inventory.
Age Limit:
- The maximum age limit for applicants is typically 35 years as of the specified cut-off date.
- Age relaxations will be applicable as per the rules and regulations set by the Government of Uttarakhand for specific categories (e.g., SC/ST/OBC).
Experience:
- While fresh graduates are often eligible, candidates with prior experience in working plan preparation, forest inventory surveys, wildlife monitoring, or field research in challenging terrain like the Himalayas will be preferred.
Candidates are strongly advised to refer to the detailed official notification for exact eligibility criteria and to ensure they meet all requirements before applying for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026.
Detailed Role and Responsibilities of a Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.)
A Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.) plays a critical role in assisting the senior officers of the Forest Department in developing comprehensive working plans for a forest division. The working plan is essentially a blueprint for sustainable forest management over a long-term period, usually 10 to 15 years. For the Nanda Devi National Park, this role holds particular significance due to the conservation-oriented management objectives of the park.
Key responsibilities for the Working Plan Associate include:
- Data Collection and Field Surveys: Conducting extensive field visits within the Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division to gather data on forest cover, vegetation types, species distribution, regeneration status, and socio-economic conditions of local communities. This often involves trekking in difficult high-altitude areas.
- GIS and Remote Sensing Analysis: Using software and technology to analyze satellite imagery and GIS data to map forest boundaries, identify changes in land use patterns, and assess habitat quality.
- Preparation of Working Plan Components: Assisting in the preparation of different chapters of the working plan, including historical background, existing forest conditions, management objectives, and proposed prescriptions for future management interventions (e.g., afforestation, protection strategies, biodiversity conservation measures).
- Community Engagement: Interacting with local communities residing in the buffer zones of the Nanda Devi National Park to understand their reliance on forest resources and to integrate their needs into the management plan, following principles of participatory forest management.
- Report Writing and Documentation: Preparing detailed technical reports, presentations, and other documents related to field findings and recommendations for the higher authorities within the Uttarakhand Forest Department.
The position requires a high degree of dedication to fieldwork, analytical skills, and strong communication abilities to present findings effectively. Working within Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the management of a critically important global biodiversity hotspot.
Application Procedure for Working Plan Associate (Offline Mode)
The application process for this Uttarakhand Forest Department Recruitment 2026 is strictly offline. Candidates must follow the specific guidelines outlined in the notification to ensure their application is successfully received and considered. The key steps are as follows:
- Download Official Notification: Candidates must first download the official notification from the Uttarakhand Forest Department's website or a reliable source like Sarkari Result All. The notification will contain the detailed application format and instructions.
- Fill Application Form: Carefully fill in the required details on the application form. This includes personal information, educational qualifications, professional experience, contact details, and other necessary particulars. Ensure accuracy, as errors can lead to rejection.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect copies of all necessary documents. These typically include:
- Educational certificates (Mark sheets and degrees/diplomas from 10th standard onwards).
- Proof of age (Birth certificate or 10th passing certificate).
- Experience certificates (if any) relevant to the role.
- Caste certificate (for reservation categories as per Uttarakhand Government rules).
- Passport-sized photographs.
- A detailed resume/CV.
- Prepare the Application Envelope: Place the filled-in application form and all required documents in a sealed envelope. Clearly superscribe the envelope with "Application for the Post of Working Plan Associate (W.P.A.) under Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division, Jyotirmath."
- Submission Address: The application must be sent via registered post or submitted in person to the specific address mentioned in the official notification. The address typically corresponds to the office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division, Jyotirmath.
- Application Fee (if applicable): Check the notification carefully for any applicable application fees and the mode of payment (e.g., demand draft, online payment, or direct deposit).
Candidates are advised to send their applications well in advance of the last date to avoid any postal delays or logistical issues, especially considering the remote location of the division office.
Selection Process and Interview Details
The selection process for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026 is expected to be based on a shortlisting procedure followed by an interview. Given the technical nature of the role, a written examination is generally not conducted for these contractual fellowship positions.
- Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on their educational qualifications, relevant experience, and overall profile as submitted in the application form. The department will review all applications to identify the most suitable candidates for the available posts.
- Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview. The interview panel, comprising senior forest department officials and experts, will evaluate the candidate's technical knowledge, understanding of forestry principles, field experience, communication skills, and motivation for working in a challenging environment like Nanda Devi National Park.
- Final Selection: The final selection will be based on the candidate's performance in the interview, combined with their academic record and work experience.
The interview location will typically be in Dehradun or a convenient location for the department. Candidates will be notified of the interview date, time, and specific venue well in advance via email or post.
Nanda Devi National Park: A Unique Working Environment
The Working Plan Associate position at Nanda Devi National Park offers a unique opportunity for an individual to work within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the upper reaches of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, the park is renowned for its stunning scenery, high-altitude biodiversity, and significant cultural and religious heritage. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, which encompasses the national park, is home to several rare and endangered species, including the snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, brown bear, and various species of high-altitude flora.
Working in this region presents unique challenges and rewards. The terrain is rugged and remote, requiring physical endurance for extensive fieldwork. The management focus is strictly on conservation and protecting the fragile ecosystem from external pressures. A Working Plan Associate here will be at the forefront of conservation efforts, directly contributing to the preservation of this natural treasure. The role provides a valuable platform for research and practical application of forestry principles in a real-world conservation setting.
The Uttarakhand Forest Department's decision to specifically recruit a working plan associate for this division reflects the department's focus on evidence-based conservation strategies for protected areas. Candidates applying for this role should possess not only the required technical skills but also a deep passion for wildlife and environmental protection.
FAQ Section: Common Queries about the Working Plan Associate Position
What is the salary or remuneration for the Working Plan Associate position?
While the exact remuneration is typically mentioned in the official notification, contractual fellowship positions like the Working Plan Associate usually offer a fixed monthly consolidated stipend. For similar roles in Uttarakhand Forest Department, this ranges between INR 25,000 to INR 35,000 per month, depending on qualifications and experience. Additional allowances for travel during fieldwork may also be provided.
Is this recruitment for a permanent government job?
No, the notification explicitly states that the vacancies are for contractual/temporary fellowship positions. These roles are project-based or for a specific duration (e.g., one to two years), and are not permanent government appointments. However, successful completion of a fellowship offers invaluable experience for future permanent positions in the forest department or related conservation organizations.
Where can I find the official application form for this recruitment?
The official application form for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026 will be available for download on the official website of the Uttarakhand Forest Department (or the specific website of the Nanda Devi National Park Forest Division). It may also be provided as part of the detailed notification document released on portals like Sarkari Result All.
What exactly is a "Working Plan" in forestry?
A Working Plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the management strategy for a specific forest division over a long period. It details the existing forest resources (types of trees, wildlife), analyzes challenges (degradation, human pressure), defines management goals (conservation, sustainable harvesting, community benefits), and prescribes actions to be taken (e.g., regeneration programs, protection measures, boundary maintenance) to achieve these goals effectively.
What specific skills are most important for this W.P.A. role in Nanda Devi National Park?
Beyond the necessary academic qualifications in forestry or related sciences, candidates should ideally have strong fieldwork skills, proficiency in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and remote sensing, data analysis capabilities, and an understanding of high-altitude ecosystems. Experience in wildlife monitoring or socio-economic surveying would be highly beneficial for this specific location.
What is the last date to apply for the Uttarakhand Forest Department Working Plan Associate Recruitment 2026?
Based on the notification timeline, the last date for submitting the offline application for the Working Plan Associate positions is 20 February 2026. Candidates must ensure their applications reach the specified office well before this deadline.
Do I need prior work experience to apply for the position?
While a fresh Master's degree holder may be eligible, prior experience in forest-related fieldwork, data collection, or research projects is strongly preferred. Experience enhances the candidate's profile and increases the chances of selection during the interview process for this specialized role.
For further updates and information regarding this recruitment drive, candidates are advised to continuously monitor the official website of the Uttarakhand Forest Department and reliable job portals like Sarkari Result All.