HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 Notification Out For 779 Posts Apply Online Before 23 February Deadline
The Haryana Staff Selection Commission has officially announced the HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 on 6 February 2026 under Advertisement No. 04/2026, opening doors for 779 government job vacancies in the Haryana Forest Department. This latest recruitment notification is a golden opportunity for candidates aspiring to secure a stable government position in Haryana. Online applications began on 9 February 2026 and will close on 23 February 2026 through the official HSSC portal. Candidates meeting the eligibility criteria must act immediately as the application window is limited to just 14 days. This recruitment follows the Common Eligibility Test (CET) pattern and includes physical efficiency tests, making it essential for aspirants to understand all requirements before applying.
HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 Notification Out For 779 Posts Complete Details and Key Information
The Haryana Staff Selection Commission released this major recruitment notification to fill forest guard positions across various categories. The notification includes comprehensive details about vacancies, eligibility criteria, selection process, and important dates that every applicant must review carefully.
| Recruitment Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organization | Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) |
| Post Name | Forest Guard |
| Advertisement Number | 04/2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 779 Posts |
| Educational Qualification | 10+2 or Equivalent from recognized board |
| Age Limit | 18 to 42 years |
| Application Fee | No Fee for All Candidates |
| Notification Release Date | 06 February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 09 February 2026 |
| Application End Date | 23 February 2026 |
| Official Website | www.hssc.gov.in |
Category Wise Vacancy Distribution for Haryana Forest Guard Posts 2026
The HSSC has distributed the 779 forest guard vacancies across multiple categories including General, reserved categories, and Ex-Servicemen quota. Understanding the category-wise breakdown helps candidates identify their applicable quota and competition level.
| Category | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| General | 318 |
| Deprived Scheduled Castes (DSC) | 55 |
| Other Scheduled Castes (OSC) | 55 |
| Backward Class A (BCA) | 102 |
| Backward Class B (BCB) | 8 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | 123 |
| Ex-Servicemen General (ESM Gen) | 77 |
| Ex-Servicemen DSC (ESM DSC) | 1 |
| Ex-Servicemen OSC (ESM OSC) | 1 |
| Ex-Servicemen BCA (ESM BCA) | 19 |
| Ex-Servicemen BCB (ESM BCB) | 20 |
| Total | 779 |
Who Can Apply: Complete Eligibility Criteria for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
Before submitting your application, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements set by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission. The eligibility criteria include educational qualifications, age limits, and physical standards that are mandatory for all applicants.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Candidates must have successfully passed 10+2 or an equivalent examination from a recognized State Education Board or University. Additionally, Hindi or Sanskrit must have been studied as a subject either at the Matriculation level or in higher education. This language requirement is crucial for candidates appearing in the state-level competitive examinations.
Age Limit for Forest Guard Posts
The minimum age requirement is 18 years and the maximum age allowed is 42 years as on the date specified in the official notification. Age relaxation is provided as per government norms for reserved categories and ex-servicemen candidates.
Physical Standards Requirements for Male and Female Candidates
Physical standards are a critical component of the selection process. Candidates must meet the specified height, chest measurements, and walking test requirements to qualify.
| Physical Parameter | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height Requirement | 168 cms | 155 cms |
| Chest (Unexpanded) | 79 cms | Not Applicable |
| Chest (Expanded) | 84 cms | Not Applicable |
| Physical Efficiency Test (Walking) | 25 kms in 4 hours | 14 kms in 4 hours |
HSSC Forest Guard Selection Process 2026 Step by Step Procedure
The selection process for Haryana Forest Guard posts follows a multi-stage evaluation system designed to assess candidates' theoretical knowledge, physical fitness, and overall suitability for the role. Understanding each stage helps candidates prepare effectively.
The selection consists of four main stages:
Stage 1: Shortlisting Based on CET Score - Candidates will be shortlisted based on their Common Eligibility Test (CET) scores. The CET serves as the initial screening mechanism for this recruitment.
Stage 2: CET Mains Examination - Shortlisted candidates will appear for the CET Mains exam, which tests subject-specific knowledge, general awareness, reasoning, and language skills as detailed in the official syllabus.
Stage 3: Physical Measurement Test and Physical Efficiency Test - Candidates clearing the written examination must undergo PMT and PET to verify they meet the physical standards required for forest guard duties.
Stage 4: Document Verification and Medical Examination - Finally, candidates who successfully complete all previous stages will undergo thorough document verification and medical examination to confirm their eligibility and fitness for appointment.
How to Apply Online for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 Complete Application Process
The online application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure your application is completed successfully before the 23 February 2026 deadline.
Step 1: Visit the official HSSC website at www.hssc.gov.in from any browser.
Step 2: Navigate to the 'Recruitment' or 'Current Openings' section on the homepage.
Step 3: Locate and click on the HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 application link.
Step 4: Complete the registration process by providing basic details like name, email, and mobile number.
Step 5: Fill in the detailed application form with personal information, educational qualifications, and category details.
Step 6: Upload scanned copies of your recent passport-size photograph, signature, and required documents in the specified format and size.
Step 7: Since there is no application fee for this recruitment, proceed directly to review your application.
Step 8: Submit the online application form and save the confirmation page for future reference.
Candidates should keep their registration number and password safe for tracking application status. Similar to recent recruitments like the RRB Group D 2026 notification, HSSC may provide application tracking facilities through the candidate login portal.
HSSC Forest Guard Exam Syllabus 2026 Subject Wise Detailed Topics
The HSSC has released a comprehensive syllabus for the Forest Guard examination. The syllabus is divided into three main sections with different weightage: General Awareness (20%), Computer Knowledge (10%), and Subject-Related topics (70%).
General Awareness and Current Affairs
This section carries 20% weightage and covers Reasoning, Mathematics, Science, Haryana-specific History, Current Affairs, Literature, Geography, Civics, Environment, and Culture. Special emphasis is placed on Haryana-related topics.
Computer Knowledge Section
With 10% weightage, this section tests basic computer literacy including Computer Terminology, Fundamentals, MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Web Browsing, Email usage, and Data Upload/Download processes.
Subject Related Syllabus (70% Weightage)
| Subject Area | Major Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| General Awareness | India and neighbouring countries, History, Culture, Geography, Economic Scene, General Policy, Static Awareness, Scientific Research |
| General Intelligence | Semantic Analogy, Symbolic Operations, Number Analogy, Trends, Space Orientation, Venn Diagrams, Number Series, Coding-Decoding, Emotional Intelligence |
| English Language | Error Spotting, Fill in Blanks, Synonyms/Antonyms, Spellings, Idioms, One Word Substitution, Active/Passive Voice, Direct/Indirect Narration, Comprehension |
| Quantitative Aptitude | Number System, Fundamental Operations, Mensuration, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Statistical Charts |
| Hindi Language | Grammar Basics, Synonyms/Antonyms, Sandhi, Samas, Prefix/Suffix, Sentence Correction, Punctuation, Parts of Speech |
| Haryana Economy | Economic Nature and Development, Agriculture, Population, Health, Agricultural Finance, MSMEs, SEZs, Budget, Revenue Sources |
| Rural Marketing | Rural Market Features, Challenges and Opportunities, Consumer Behaviour, Marketing Strategies, E-commerce Innovations |
| Environmental Studies | Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Pollution Control, Environmental Laws, Waste Management, Disaster Management |
Important Dates and Deadlines for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
Mark these critical dates in your calendar to ensure you don't miss any important deadline during the HSSC Forest Guard recruitment process.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Official Notification Release | 06 February 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 09 February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 23 February 2026 |
| Examination Date | To Be Notified Later |
The examination date has not been announced yet. Candidates should regularly check the official HSSC website for updates regarding admit card release and exam schedule. Similar to other state recruitments like OSSSC 2026 notifications, HSSC typically announces exam dates 3-4 weeks before the actual examination.
Comparison Between HSSC Forest Guard and Other State Forest Recruitment 2026
| Parameter | HSSC Forest Guard 2026 | Other State Forest Recruitments |
|---|---|---|
| Total Vacancies | 779 Posts | Varies (300-1000 typically) |
| Educational Qualification | 10+2 with Hindi/Sanskrit | 10+2 (language requirements vary) |
| Application Fee | No Fee for All | Usually Rs. 100-500 for General |
| Selection Process | CET Based + Physical Test | Written Exam + Physical Standards |
| Physical Standards | Height: 168cm (M), 155cm (F) | Slightly varies by state |
| Age Limit | 18-42 years | 18-40 years (most states) |
Advantages and Challenges of HSSC Forest Guard Job 2026
| Pros (Advantages) | Cons (Challenges) |
|---|---|
| Complete job security as permanent government employee | High competition with 779 vacancies for lakhs of applicants |
| No application fee saves candidates money | Strict physical standards may disqualify many candidates |
| Attractive salary as per Haryana government pay scale | Exam syllabus is vast covering multiple subjects |
| Regular promotions and career growth opportunities | Posting in remote forest areas away from cities |
| Government benefits including pension and medical facilities | Physically demanding job requiring outdoor fieldwork |
| Work-life balance with fixed duty hours | Limited transfer options within forest department |
| Opportunity to serve in environmental conservation | Requires maintaining physical fitness throughout career |
Salary and Pay Scale for Haryana Forest Guard Posts 2026
Forest Guard posts in Haryana come with competitive salary packages as per the state government pay matrix. While the official notification does not specify the exact pay level, forest guard positions typically fall under Pay Level 5 or equivalent in the Haryana government pay structure.
The approximate salary range is expected to be between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 35,000 per month including basic pay and allowances. Additional benefits include Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), Travel Allowance (TA), and other admissible benefits as per government norms.
Candidates will also be entitled to medical facilities, pension benefits, leave encashment, and other welfare schemes applicable to Haryana government employees. Similar to positions in Punjab Police recruitment, the total salary package with all benefits can be quite attractive.
Frequently Asked Questions About HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026
What is the last date to apply for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 online application?
The last date to submit online applications for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 is 23 February 2026. Candidates must complete their application process before this deadline as no extensions are typically granted. The application window is open for only 14 days from 9 February to 23 February 2026.
Is there any application fee for HSSC Forest Guard 779 vacancies notification 2026?
No, there is no application fee for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026. This is a major benefit as the Haryana Staff Selection Commission has waived the application fee for all categories of candidates including General, OBC, SC, ST, EWS, and Ex-Servicemen applicants, making it accessible to all eligible candidates.
What are the physical requirements for male candidates in Haryana Forest Guard recruitment 2026?
Male candidates must meet specific physical standards: minimum height of 168 cms, chest measurement of 79 cms (unexpanded) and 84 cms (expanded). Additionally, they must complete a 25 km walking test within 4 hours during the Physical Efficiency Test (PET) to qualify for the forest guard position.
Can I apply for HSSC Forest Guard 2026 if I have only 12th pass qualification?
Yes, candidates who have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized State Education Board or University are eligible to apply. However, there is an additional requirement that Hindi or Sanskrit must have been studied as a subject either at Matriculation level or in higher education for HSSC Forest Guard eligibility.
What is the selection process for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 notification posts?
The selection process includes four stages: first, shortlisting based on Common Eligibility Test (CET) score; second, CET Mains examination covering syllabus topics; third, Physical Measurement Test (PMT) and Physical Efficiency Test (PET); and finally, document verification and medical examination to confirm fitness and eligibility before final appointment.
When will HSSC announce the exam date for Forest Guard posts 2026?
The examination date for HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 has not been announced yet in the official notification released on 6 February 2026. Candidates should regularly monitor the official HSSC website at www.hssc.gov.in for updates regarding exam schedule and admit card availability announcements.
How many total vacancies are available in HSSC Forest Guard Recruitment 2026 across all categories?
The Haryana Staff Selection Commission has announced a total of 779 vacancies for Forest Guard posts under Advertisement No. 04/2026. These vacancies are distributed across multiple categories including 318 General, 123 EWS, 102 BCA, 77 ESM General, 55 DSC, 55 OSC, and other reserved category posts.
What subjects are included in the HSSC Forest Guard exam syllabus 2026?
The syllabus includes General Awareness (20% weightage) covering reasoning, mathematics, history, and current affairs; Computer Knowledge (10% weightage) including MS Office and internet basics; and Subject-Related topics (70% weightage) covering General Intelligence, English, Hindi, Quantitative Aptitude, Haryana Economy, Rural Marketing, and Environmental Studies with Disaster Management.
About the Author
Aswin Anil is a senior government jobs news editor specializing in central and state recruitment notifications. With extensive experience covering SSC, UPSC, Railway, Banking, and State PSC examinations, Aswin provides timely updates and detailed analysis to help job aspirants stay informed about the latest opportunities. His expertise lies in breaking down complex recruitment notifications into actionable information for candidates.