indian forest service(ifos)

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Exam 2024: Latest News & Salary

December 11, 2024

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Overview

The Indian Forest Service(IFoS), conducted annually by UPSC, is a national-level exam for positions in the environment, forests, and climate change sectors. It is one of the three All-India Services alongside IAS and IPS. Established in 1966 under the All-India Services Act, IFoS aims to enforce the National Forest Policy and ensure ecological stability through sustainable resource management.

Selection Process

The selection process for UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) includes three stages:

  • Preliminary Examination
    • Two objective papers: General Studies and CSAT.
    • Acts as a screening test to qualify candidates for the Mains Examination.
  • Mains Examination
    • Six descriptive papers:
      • General English and General Knowledge.
      • Two optional subjects were chosen from a specified list.
  • Interview
    • Personality assessment worth 300 marks.
    • Final merit list based on combined Mains and Interview scores.

Key Responsibilities

  • Implementing the National Forest Policy.
  • Managing national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and tiger reserves.
  • Overseeing sustainable management of natural resources.

Designations in State Forest Departments

  • District/Divisional Forest Officer (DFO).
  • Conservator and Chief Conservator of Forests.
  • Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF).
  • Head of Forest Forces (highest state-level position).

IFoS officers play a vital role in protecting India’s biodiversity and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

History of Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

In 1864, the British India Government established the Imperial Forest Department. In 1866, Dr. Dietrich Brandis was named General of Forests. The Imperial Forest Department established Imperial Forest Services in 1867 to manage forest natural resources and oversee other Imperial Forest Department concerns. The British government established additional subordinate services to ensure efficient resource management. The Forest Department was given to India’s provinces in 1965 under the Government of India Act of 1935. The government of India established the Indian Forest Services in 1966 under the All-India Services Act of 1951.

Latest Updates From IFoS

  • The UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) application form 2024 was released by the Commission on February 14, 2024, on its official website. Interested candidates can apply online till 5th March 2024
  • The Indian Forest Service (IFOS) Preliminary Examination, 2024 results were announced by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on July 1, 2024. Candidates who cleared this stage are now eligible for the IFS Mains 2024 exam, which is scheduled for November 24, 2024.

Click on the below link to check out the Indian Forest Service (IFS) Preliminary Examination, 2024 Result.

Name of ExaminationReleased Date
IFS Preliminary Examination, 2024 Result (with name)July 1, 2024
Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Exam 2024: Overview

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameUPSC Indian Forest Service Examination 2024 (IFoS)
Conducting BodyUnion Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Cadre AuthorityMinistry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change
LevelNational
QualificationGraduation
Age Limit21 to 32 years (as of August 1, 2024)
Exam ModeOffline (Pen and Paper-Based)
Application ModeOnline
Application Fee₹100 (for General/EWS/OBC Male Candidates)
VacanciesApproximately 150
Number of Attempts6
Selection Process– Prelims- Mains- Personality Test
Establishment Year1966
Official Websitewww.upsc.gov.in

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Notification 2024

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on February 14, 2024, released the comprehensive notification for the 2024 Indian Forest Service(IFoS) (Preliminary) Examination.

Candidates who wish to apply for both the Indian Forest Service(IFoS) and Civil Services examinations may do so using a common online application form, provided that they meet the necessary eligibility requirements. Interested candidates can check the current year notification and the IFS exam date of 2024.

Indian-Forest-ServiceIFoS

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Exam Dates 2024

The Union Public Service Commission has announced the Indian Forest Service 2024 Exam dates for the Prelims & Main Examination. While the IFS Main Exam will be held on November 24, 2024, for 10 Days, the UPSC IFS Preliminary Exam will be held on May 26, 2024. There is no offline option, the applicant must submit the application form exclusively online. The dates for the IFS 2024 Exam are listed below.

Important EventsTentative Dates
Indian Forest Service 2024 NotificationFebruary 14, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Application Process CommencementFebruary 14, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Application Process EndsMarch 3, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Last Date for ModificationMarch 12, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Admit Card ReleaseJune 7, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Preliminary Exam DateJune 16, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Preliminary ResultJuly 1, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Main Exam DateNovember 24, 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 Main ResultDecember 2024
Indian Forest Service 2024 InterviewTo be notified
Indian Forest Service 2024 Final ResultTo be notified

Also Read: IAS Exam 2024: Latest News and Dates

Role of Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Officer

Responsibilities of an IFoS Officer

The primary duty of an Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officer is to conserve and protect forests, wildlife, and natural resources while ensuring sustainable management. They enforce the National Forest Policy and work closely with forest guards to maintain the ecological balance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Forest Conservation: Safeguard forest resources and prevent illegal logging or tree-cutting.
  • Tree Planting: Organize and participate in afforestation initiatives.
  • Wildlife Protection: Prevent illegal hunting and ensure animal safety.
  • Monitoring Activities: Survey woodlands and oversee sustainable wood exploitation.
  • Policy Implementation: Execute the National Forest Policy effectively.
  • Reporting: Submit regular reports to the Forest Ministry and Department.

IFoS officers play a crucial role in preserving the nation’s natural heritage and ensuring ecological sustainability.

Indian Forest Service Vacancy 2024

According to the official notification, there are approximately 150 Indian Forest Service(IFoS) vacancies in 2024. However, according to the government, applicants who fall under the SC, ST, OBC, Economically Weaker Section (EWS), and PWD categories would be given preference and there are a few reserved positions. Review the information below.

CategoryGeneralEWSOBCSCSTTotal
Total Vacancies6215402211150
Reserved for Disabilities
– Low Vision22
– Hard of Hearing23 (1 Backlog)
– Locomotor Disability (Leprosy Cured and Acid Attack Victims)24 (2 Backlog)
Total Reserved for Disabilities69

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Eligibility Conditions

1. Nationality Requirements

Eligibility CriteriaDetails
Citizenship– A citizen of India.
Other Eligible Groups– A subject of Nepal.
– A subject of Bhutan.
– A Tibetan refugee who came to India before January 1, 1962, to settle permanently in India.
– A person of Indian origin from Pakistan, Burma, Sri Lanka, or East African countries (e.g., Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Zaire, Ethiopia, and Vietnam), intending to settle in India.
NoteCandidates from Nepal, Bhutan, Tibetan refugees, and others must have an eligibility certificate from the Government of India. They can take the exam but will only receive a job offer after obtaining the certificate.

2. Age Limits

CriteriaDetails
Basic Age Requirements– At least 21 years old but not older than 32 years as of August 1, 2024. (Born between August 2, 1992, and August 1, 2003.)
Age RelaxationAge relaxation is available for certain categories as listed below:
CategoryAge Relaxation
Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST)5 years
Other Backward Classes (OBC)3 years
Disabled Defense Services Personnel3 years
Ex-servicemen5 years
Emergency Commissioned Officers (ECOs) and Short Service Commissioned Officers (SSCOs)5 years
Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwD)10 years

Note: SC/ST candidates can get cumulative age relaxation if they qualify under other categories.

3. Educational Qualifications

QualificationDetails
Required DegreeA Bachelor’s degree in one of the following subjects:
– Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science, Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Zoology
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Forestry, or Engineering.
Recognized InstitutionThe degree must be from a university or institution recognized by the Government.
Equivalent QualificationsCandidates with equivalent qualifications must submit a certificate from a recognized institution confirming equivalence to the required Bachelor’s degree.

4. Number of Attempts

CategoryNumber of Attempts
General Candidates6 Attempts
SC / ST CandidatesNo Limit
OBC Candidates9 Attempts
PwD Candidates9 Attempts

4.1. Important Notes:

  • Appearing for any paper in the Preliminary Examination counts as an attempt.
  • If a candidate appears in any paper of the Preliminary Examination, it will be considered an attempt for both the Preliminary and Main Examinations.
  • Even if a candidate is disqualified or their candidature is cancelled, their appearance will still be counted as an attempt.

5. Medical and Physical Standards

Here are the Medical and Physical Standards for the Indian Forest Service (IFoS):

5.1. Medical Standards

CriteriaRequirement
EyesightGood vision without color blindness.
Minimum visual acuity: 6/6 (better eye) and 6/9 (worse eye) without correction.
HearingNormal hearing, Impairment should not be more than 30 decibels.
Physical DisabilitiesNo hindrance to forest-related duties.

5.2. Physical Standards

CriteriaMaleFemale
HeightMinimum height: 163 cmMinimum height: 150 cm
ChestChest girth (normal): 79 cm (minimum) with a minimum expansion of 5 cmChest girth (normal): 74 cm (minimum) with a minimum expansion of 5 cm
Walking TestComplete a 25 km walk within 4 hoursComplete a 15 km walk within 4 hours
Physical FitnessFit for forest service dutiesFit for forest service duties

6. Fee Information

6.1. Fee Requirement:

  • Candidates applying for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination must pay a fee of Rs. 100/-.
  • Female candidates, SC (Scheduled Caste), ST (Scheduled Tribe), and PwBD (Persons with Benchmark Disability) candidates are exempted from paying the fee and do not need to pay anything.

6.2. Payment Methods:

  • The fee can be paid in the following ways:
    • Cash: Deposit the fee at any branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) using the system-generated Pay-in-slip.
    • Online: Use net banking (State Bank of India or any other bank), credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard, RuPay), or UPI payment.

6.3. Important Deadlines for Payment:

  • If you choose the “Pay by Cash” option, you must print the Pay-in-slip during Part II registration and deposit it at an SBI branch by the next working day.
  • The “Pay by Cash” option will be deactivated at 11:59 PM on March 4, 2024. You must pay at the SBI branch by the closing date during banking hours.
  • If you cannot pay by cash, you must use the online payment option until 6:00 PM on March 5, 2024.

Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Application Form

1. How to Apply for the Indian Forest Service(IFoS)?

The UPSC IFoS application process is entirely online and simple. The complete processes are provided below to assist candidates in registering for the exam.

Step 1: Registration and Basic Information

  • Find the link to register for UPSC Civil Services on the UPSC official website. Select “Apply Here” from the menu.
  • Correctly enter all of your information requested in the first stage, notably your contact information.
  • After completing the form, you will be prompted to double-check the data before submitting it. It cannot be modified once the final submission has been made. Your registration ID and password for accessing the UPSC website will be issued to your registered email address and cellphone number once you’ve submitted it.
  • Keep these login credentials in mind so you may use the website in the future to see your admission card, results, etc.

Step 2: Filling Out the Application Form

  • Re-login and begin filling out the second step of the form using the new login ID. Your educational history, exam centre preferences, and category are all covered in the second phase.
  • You may select up to three test locations.
  • Before you ultimately submit the form in this stage, make sure all of the information is accurate and true to your knowledge since it cannot be changed afterwards.

Note:

  • You must upload your photo and signature in the next section of the form.
  • JPG or PNG format should be used for both.
  • The picture needs to be current and passport size.
  • White paper and blank ink should be used for the signature.
  • Capital letters are not permitted in the signature.

Step 3: Upload Signature and Photo

The following section of the form requires you to provide your signature and photo.

  • JPG or PNG format should be used for both.
  • The picture needs to be current and passport size.
  • White paper and blank ink should be used for the signature.
  • Capital letters are not permitted in the signature.

Step 4: Payment of Application Fees

    • Paying the fees is the final step.
    • For male candidates in the general category and OBC, the application cost is INR 100.
    • The payment of fees is not required for SC/ST/PWD/ex-service people.
    • You can download and print a copy of the application form when the application fees have been successfully paid. In the future, it will be helpful if there is a problem with the admit card.

    After the UPSC IFoS Prelims Results are out, applicants who qualify for the Mains test must re-apply for the Main test. Similar steps must be taken to apply, and only through the official website.

    2. Documents Required

    The application process is simple, but you must be careful not to make any mistakes when entering the necessary information in the forms because mistakes cannot be changed once the form has been completed. Keep the following materials nearby before you begin filling out the application:

    • PAN Card / Voter ID / Aadhaar Card
    • Photograph and signature scans,
    • Information on your bank and credit/debit cards
    • Current mobile number and email addresses
    • All of your Mark sheets from classes 10, 12, and under; your bachelor’s and master’s degrees;  
    • If applicable, your ST / SC / PWD certification

    3. Signature and Photograph Criteria

    DocumentsSizeDimension
    Signature10-30 KB1.5-3.5 cm
    Photograph20-50 KBPassport Size

    For success, the application and payments must be submitted during the application window. Applying as soon as possible is prudent to guarantee that the exam centre allocation matches your preferences.

    Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Admit Card

    Indian Forest Service(IFoS) released the Admit Card on June 7, 2024. The admission card is available for download on the official website for candidates. After downloading it, the applicant should print off their admission card and carry it to the test room. The admission card will provide information about the exam’s date and location.

    The process to obtain the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) admit card is as follows:

    • Step 1: Go to the UPSC’s official website.
    • Step 2: Locate and click on the IFS Exam Admit Card Link under the key announcements.
    • Step 3: Fill up the required form with your registration ID and password.
    • Step 4: A screen will show your IFS 2024 admit card. Take a printout of it after downloading.

    Key Points for Downloading the UPSC IFS Admit Card

    • Login Credentials: Keep your login details ready before starting the download process.
    • Internet Speed: Ensure a stable and fast internet connection to avoid any delays.
    • Eligibility Criteria: Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements for the UPSC IFS exam to access your admit card.
    • Verify Details: After downloading, carefully check all the information on the admit card for accuracy.
    • Print Copies: Take 2-3 printouts of the admit card to present at the examination centre.
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    Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Syllabus

    The Indian Forest Service(IFoS) examination is conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and is one of the toughest competitive exams in India. The IFoS examination consists of two stages: the Preliminary examination (Prelims) and the Main examination (Mains), followed by an interview. Below are the detailed Indian Forest Service Syllabus for you:

    1. Part A – Preliminary Examination Syllabus

    The syllabus for the IFoS examination is comprehensive and covers a wide range of topics. The Preliminary examination includes two papers:

    PaperMarksDurationTopics Covered
    Paper I200 marks2 hours1. Comprehension
    2. Interpersonal skills including communication skills
    3. Logical reasoning and analytical ability
    4. Decision-making and problem-solving
    5. General mental ability
    6. Basic numeracy (Class X level)
    7. Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, Class X level)
    Paper II200 marks2 hours1. Comprehension
    2. Interpersonal skills including communication skills
    3. Logical reasoning and analytical ability
    4. Decision making and problem-solving
    5. General mental ability
    6. Basic numeracy (Class X level)
    7. Data interpretation (charts, graphs, tables, data sufficiency, Class X level)

    Important Notes for Preliminary Examination:

    • Paper II is a qualifying paper; the minimum qualifying marks required are 33%.
    • Both papers are multiple-choice, objective-type.
    • Candidates must appear in both Paper I and Paper II; failing to do so will result in disqualification.

    2. Part B – Main Examination Syllabus

    The Main examination consists of six papers, which are:

    SectionDescription
    General English1. Write an essay in English.
    2. Test understanding of English and use of words.
    3. Passages for summary or precis.
    General Knowledge1. Current events and everyday observations.
    2. Scientific aspects as expected from an educated person.
    3. Indian Polity including political system and Constitution.
    4. History of India and Geography.
    Optional Subjects1. Total of 8 questions in each paper.
    2. Papers divided into Part A and Part B (4 questions each).
    3. Answer 5 questions: 1 compulsory from each part (2 total), and 3 from the remaining 6 (at least 1 from each part).

    List of Optional Subjects:

    1. Agriculture
    2. Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science
    3. Anthropology
    4. Botany
    5. Chemistry
    6. Civil Engineering
    7. Commerce and Accountancy
    8. Economics
    9. Electrical Engineering
    10. Geography
    11. Geology
    12. History
    13. Law
    14. Management
    15. Mathematics
    16. Mechanical Engineering
    17. Medical Science
    18. Philosophy
    19. Physics
    20. Political Science and International Relations
    21. Psychology
    22. Public Administration
    23. Sociology
    24. Statistics
    25. Zoology

    General Notes for Main Examination:

    • The standard of the General English and General Knowledge papers is equivalent to that expected of a Science or Engineering graduate.
    • The level of optional subject papers is higher than a bachelor’s degree but lower than a master’s degree.
    • No practical examinations are included in any subject.

    Check out the detailed syllabus for each of the subjects in the below-given PDF

    Indian-Forest-Service-IFoS-Optional-Subject-Papers

    In addition to the above subjects, it’s important for candidates to stay updated with current affairs and have a good understanding of environmental and ecological concepts as these are crucial for the IFoS examination.

    Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Exam Pattern

    The exam pattern for IFoS consists of three stages: the Preliminary examination (Prelims), the Main examination (Mains), and a Personality Test (Interview).

      Stage 1: Preliminaries for the Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

      The preliminary examination consists of two papers that are conducted on the same day.

      • The UPSC IFoS prelims test is identical to the UPSC IAS prelims exam.
      • There are two objectively oriented papers: GS I and CSAT.
        • In the General Studies paper, each question is worth two points.
        • In the Civil Service Aptitude Test, each question is worth 2.5 points.
      • Every incorrect response results in a deduction of 1/3 of a mark.
      PapersSubjectTotal MarksDuration
      Paper IGeneral Studies2002 Hours
      Paper IICivil Services Aptitude Test2002 Hours

      Both papers are objective type, and the marks obtained in Paper I are counted for qualifying for the Mains examination.

      Stage 2: Mains Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

      The Main examination consists of written papers and an interview.

      • The IAS (UPSC CSE) and UPSC IFoS Mains exams are wholly different tests.
      • The Indian Forest Service Mains Exam consists of 6 papers.
      • Each essay is of the descriptive variety.
      • Each paper has a three-hour time limit.
      • The list of subjects includes two extra subjects that can be selected.
      PapersSubjectsTotal Marks
      Paper IGeneral English300
      Paper IIGeneral Knowledge300
      Paper IIIOptional I200
      Paper IVOptional I200
      Paper VOptional II200
      Paper VIOptional II200

      Stage 3: Interview

      Those applicants who pass the main exam will be shortlisted for the interview when their personalities will be examined. The interview, which is the final stage, carries 275 marks.

      Judgment, tolerance, awareness, ethics, and many more factors are among the numerous factors considered while choosing applicants. The interview panel will examine the applicant’s character rather than just their knowledge.

      IFoS Interview Exam Stage

      • This portion will carry 300 points.
      • The applicants will be evaluated on their general knowledge, communication abilities, intellectual curiosity, critical observation, and assimilation skills, balance of judgment and mental alertness, initiative, tact, leadership potential, etc.
      • The Board will speak with the applicant.
      • The next requirement for the male hopefuls was to run 25 km in 4 hours or less. Those that are female must run 14 km in less time than 4 hours.

      The final selection is based on the candidate’s performance in the Main examination and the Personality Test, as well as the preferences given by the candidates for the various services and the vacancies available.

      Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Exam Centers

      The Union Public Service Commission reserves the right to change the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) test locations. The “First Apply First Allot” principle distributes the centres. Once each exam venue admits a certain number of students, the centre locks, and applicants must choose another location.

      The table lists all Indian testing locations for the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) exam. Students may quickly scan the chart to choose which centre is handy and doable for them to visit.

      State/CityExam Centre
      Andaman & NicobarPort Blair
      Andhra PradeshVijayawada
      Visakhapatnam
      Ananthapuru
      Tirupati
      Arunachal PradeshItanagar
      AssamDispur
      Jorhat
      BiharPatna
      Aurangabad
      Gaya
      ChandigarhChandigarh
      ChhattisgarhBilaspur
      Raipur
      Delhi/NCRDelhi
      Ghaziabad
      GoaPanaji
      GujaratAhmedabad
      Rajkot
      HaryanaFaridabad
      Gurgaon
      Himachal PradeshShimla
      Jammu & KashmirSrinagar
      Jammu
      JharkhandRanchi
      KarnatakaBengaluru
      Dharwad
      Mysuru
      KeralaThiruvananthapuram
      Kochi
      Kozhikode (Calicut)
      Madhya PradeshBhopal
      Gwalior
      Indore
      Jabalpur
      MaharashtraMumbai
      Navi Mumbai
      Nagpur
      Pune
      Thane
      ManipurAizawl
      MeghalayaShillong
      MizoramImphal
      NagalandKohima
      OdishaCuttack
      Sambalpur
      PuducherryPuducherry
      PunjabLudhiana
      RajasthanAjmer
      Jaipur
      Jodhpur
      Udaipur
      SikkimGangtok
      Tamil NaduChennai
      Coimbatore
      Madurai
      Tiruchirapalli
      Vellore
      TelanganaHyderabad
      Warangal City
      TripuraAgartala
      Uttar PradeshAgra
      Aligarh
      Allahabad
      Bareilly
      Gautam Buddha Nagar
      Gorakhpur
      Lucknow
      Varanasi
      UttarakhandDehradun
      West BengalKolkata
      Siliguri

      1. Steps to Change Exam Centre

      The following are the methods to modify the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) test location:

      • Visit UPSC’s official website.
      • Click the link and go to “ONLINE REQUEST FOR CHANGE OF EXAMINATION CENTRE.”
      • Update the testing facility with care.
      • Simply press the “Submit” button.
      • Download a copy of the admissions card and the acknowledgement form, and preserve a printout of each.

      The ‘First Apply First Allot’ tenet will once again apply to requests to switch test locations. When a centre reaches full capacity, it gets locked, and applicants are compelled to choose from the remaining centres. If necessary, the commission retains the authority to change the centre as they see fit.

      2. Required Documents for the Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

      The applicant to the designated examination site must bring the following documentation:

      • A valid photo ID such as:
        • Passport
        • Voter ID
        • Aadhar Card
        • PAN Card
        • any other card issued by the State / Central government is acceptable.
      • The UPSC IFoS Admit Card

      3. UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Basic Exam Centre Guidelines

      When reporting to the test site, applicants must remember that they must abide by the UPSC’s instructions.

      • Only a clipboard or hardboard and a pen for recording answers are permitted inside the exam room. The invigilator will supply sheets for draught works and answer sheets.
      • The commission urges candidates not to bring electronic devices, including mobile phones, pagers, Bluetooth devices, and other communication equipment, into the exam room. Candidates should refrain from bringing them to the examination locations, as the commission does not provide provisions for safekeeping.
      • Candidates are advised to refrain from bringing any form of expensive or precious objects to the centre. The commission is not liable for any kind of loss in this respect.

      If a candidate violates one of the rules outlined by the Commission, the Commission will take severe disciplinary action, and the candidate may be disqualified from taking the Civil Service Examinations altogether.

      Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Answer Key

      The Indian Forest Service(IFoS) answer key includes all the solutions to the exam questions. The answer key will be available on the UPSC’s official website. Candidates can review the answer key when it is posted on the official website.

      1. Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Result

      Many students take this exam each year because of the high demand for these jobs and the lucrative salaries and opportunities they offer. However, the few openings available for this job make it extremely difficult to pass the exam. So, merely earning the required passing grades is insufficient. Candidates should practice the previous question papers and the mock exams while preparing for the Indian Forest Service.

      Only those students who can score higher than the cut-off can take the next set of exams. The Prelims, Mains, and Personal Interview are the three steps of this exam’s ultimate recruiting process. The first two phases employ online written tests.

      2. How to check the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Result?

      The UPSC website posts results for both the Preliminary and Main Examinations. These results are available as downloadable and printable PDFs for further use. The accompanying instructions will walk you through the simple process of opening the result on the official website.

      • Step 1: Visit the UPSC IFoS official website at www.upsc.gov.
      • Step 2: On the right side of the screen, locate “Written Results” and click it.
      • Step 3: Click on Examination Written Results on the newly displayed page.
      • Step 4: Find the link to your result from the list of links provided.
      • Step 5: The link opens in a PDF format. Press (Ctrl + F) to input your name and roll number.
      • Step 6: Verify if your name is included in the list. You passed the test if your name appears there.

      UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) Cut-Off 2023

      The official IFS Cut-Off for 2024 will be published after the final results are announced. Meanwhile, candidates can refer to the 2023 cut-off scores to get an idea of the expected cut-offs for the 2024 exam.

      CategoryPrelims Cut-OffMains Cut-OffFinal Cut-Off
      General93.60640903
      EWS92.93596859
      OBC93.60608846
      SC82.83577800
      ST78.79591803
      PwBD-1
      PwBD-251.17491787
      PwBD-345.10448598

      Note: Cut-offs are subject to change depending on various factors, including the difficulty level of the exam and the number of candidates appearing.

      Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Books to Read

      The greatest Indian Forest Service(IFoS) topper books are essential for UPSC IFS preparation. To improve their preparations, aspirants should be aware of the best UPSC IFS Books. The best book collection may be found both online and offline. The facts may be the same, but it is the applications that matter. As a result, distinguishing between books and locating the appropriate one is crucial.

      S.no.SubjectBookAuthor/Publisher
      1.General StudiesIndia’s Struggle for IndependenceBipan Chandra
      2.HistoryFacets of Indian CultureSpectrum Books
      3.AgricultureUPSC IFS Agriculture Main Exam Guide (Paper I & II) Main Exam GuideRPH Editorial Board
      4.Mains Paper I and Paper II UPSC IFS Main Examination Guide: A complete book for Paper I and Paper II RPH Editorial Board
      5.PolityUPSC IFS exam Zoology main Exam Guide (Including Paper I & II)RPH Editorial Board
      6.CSATEthics, Integrity and Aptitude for Civil Services ExaminationG. Subba Rao

      Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Officer Salary

      Below is the list of grades-based pay for Indian Forest Service(IFoS) salaries for officials:

      GradeDesignation in state governmentDesignation in Government of IndiaMonthly Salary
      Junior Time ScaleAssistant Conservator of Forests/Asst. Dy. Conservator of ForestsAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 56,100
      Senior Time ScaleDeputy Conservator of ForestsAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 67,700
      Junior Administrative GradeDeputy Conservator of ForestsAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 78,800
      Selection GradeDeputy Conservator of Forests (Selection Grade)Assistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 1,18,500
      Super Time ScaleConservator of Forests / Chief Wildlife WardenDeputy Inspector General of ForestsINR 1,50,000
      Senior Administrative GradeChief Conservator of ForestsInspector General of ForestsINR 1,75,000
      HAG scaleAdditional Principal Chief Conservator of ForestsINR 2,00,000
      HAG+ ScalePrincipal Chief Conservator of ForestsAdditional Director General of ForestsINR 2,05,400
      Apex ScalePrincipal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force)Director General of ForestsINR 2,25,000

      1. Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Cadre Allocation Policy

      Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officers go through a cadre allocation process like every other civil service employee. However, the Indian government launched a new cadre allocation policy in 2017 that allows candidates to select five zones of their choosing.

      The following states represent the zone-wise Indian Forest Service(IFoS) cadre allocation:

      ZonesStates
      Zone – 1Punjab, AGMUT, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand
      Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir
      Zone – 2Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh
      Zone – 3Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh
      Zone – 4Assam, Tripura, Sikkim, Manipur, Nagaland, Meghalaya, West Bengal
      Zone – 5Kerala, Tripura, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana

      Officers continue to serve the Indian government in the cadre to which they have been assigned or deputed.

      2. Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Officer Responsibilities

      The primary responsibility given to Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officials is to safeguard the nation’s ecological environment and to maintain a record of the sustainable management of natural resources. Additionally, Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officers oversee the following areas:

      • National Parks (NP) Tiger Reserve (TR)
      • Wildlife Sanctuaries (WLS)
      • Other Protected Areas (PA) of the Country
      • A Forest Service officer can exert administrative, judicial, and financial authority without relying on the district administration.

      The posts held by the state forest department are listed below:

      • Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), District / Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), and Conservator of Forests (CF)
      • PCCF stands for Principal Chief Conservator of Forests.
      • Only Forest Service officials are in charge of the aforementioned components. The Head of Forest Forces (HoFF) is the highest-ranking member of the Forest Service in each state.

      The Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officials were in charge of the aforementioned factors among others. In addition to these, the cadre assignment has a significant impact on the duties that must be given to the officers.

      3. Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Training

      The Indian Forest Service(IFoS) program begins with a foundation course at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie.

      • The officer trainees’ foundation training is 15 weeks long.
      • The probationers are sent to the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy for core training after completing the foundation course.
      • Wildlife management, climate change, forest policies, biodiversity, forest dwellers and scheduled tribes, environmental protection, remote sensing, and geographic information systems are among the topics discussed.
      • The Forest Research Institute of India awards the officers a master’s degree in Science (Forestry) upon completion of their training.
      • Over 56 subjects are covered during the officers’ two-year probationary period.

      In addition, the cops receive physical training that includes horseback riding, driving a car, crime detection, swimming, and weapon handling, among other things. These officials are also given extensive tours. The Indian Military Academy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Wildlife Institute of India, Bombay Natural History Society, and other government institutions may decide to connect with them.

      4. Benefits of Serving in the Indian Forest Service(IFoS)

      Below is a list of benefits granted to Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officials:

      • 2 BHK or 3 BHK Government House
      • Transportation Vehicles
      • Security Guard or Bodyguard
      • Free Electricity & Water Services
      • Free phone call services
      • House Help
      • Medical Expenses
      • Study abroad
      • Pension
      • Many more retirement benefits

      These are some of the facilities that the Indian government offers to all IAS, IFoS, and IPS personnel.

      Note: Upon selection, candidates will also receive additional benefits. Provident Fund, Contributory Pension Fund, and Transportation Allowance. Along with these advantages, there are several opportunities for promotion through further tests.

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      Conclusion

      The Indian Forest Service(IFoS), established in 1966, is a prestigious civil service dedicated to managing and conserving India’s forests and wildlife. It plays a vital role in implementing national policies on forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development. Indian Forest Service(IFoS) officers oversee forest resources, combat deforestation, and maintain ecological balance. Their roles range from field operations to high-level policy-making, significantly contributing to environmental sustainability. A career in IFoS offers a unique mix of administrative duties and hands-on fieldwork, making it an excellent choice for individuals passionate about nature and committed to preserving India’s rich natural heritage.

      Stop hustling from 9 to 5. Work at your Own Pace.

      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

      Q: How many stages are there in the Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Examination?

      The UPSC IFoS test is divided into 3 parts the preliminary, main, and interview stages.

      Q: What is the minimum age requirement for applicants to the Indian Forest Service(IFoS)?

      Applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 32. There are many categories in which the relaxations are offered.

      Q: Is the UPSC Indian Forest Service(IFoS) test easy to pass?

      The IFS test is just as tricky as the IAS exam, given the same number of applicants and equivalent difficulty level. To pass the test, candidates must develop a thorough study plan, put up a lot of work, and regularly practice exam questions.

      Q: Is it necessary to keep your registration ID and password on hand?

      The applicant must provide their registration ID and password whenever they wish to access the website. They nonetheless send them to the registered email address and mobile number as well.

      Q: What is the exam duration of the Indian Forest Service(IFoS) Mains?

      Each paper of the IFoS exam is of 3 hours duration.

      Q: Is the Indian Forest Service(IFoS) better than IAS?

      The Indian Forest Service(IFoS) and the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) serve different roles. The IAS focuses on administration and policy-making, while the IFoS is concerned with forest and wildlife management. Neither is inherently better; it depends on individual career goals and interests.

      Q: What does an IFoS officer do?

      An IFoS officer manages forests, wildlife, and natural resources. They work on conservation, forest policy, and environmental protection, often dealing with issues related to wildlife, forest management, and sustainable development.

      Q: Who is eligible for the IFoS exam?

      To be eligible for the IFoS exam, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, medicine, or a related science field. They must also meet age and nationality requirements set by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

      Q: Is IFoS a stressful job?

      The IFoS can be stressful due to the responsibility of managing natural resources, dealing with environmental issues, and working in challenging conditions. The job demands both physical and mental endurance.