Srinagar, October 2024 — In response to recent developments and legal proceedings, the Office of the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, has issued an official notification amending the minimum qualification requirements for the position of Forester in the Jammu and Kashmir Forest (Subordinate) Services. This amendment follows the case titled "Pardeep Singh vs. UT of J&K and ors," highlighting the need to revise recruitment standards.
According to the updated guidelines, candidates applying for the Forester position must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the specified subjects: Agriculture, Botany, Zoology, Chemistry, Forestry, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, or Statistics. This amendment aims to ensure that only candidates with relevant academic backgrounds are considered for direct recruitment.
The recruitment process will follow a dual approach:
Direct Recruitment: 40% of positions will be filled through direct recruitment.
Promotion: 60% of positions will be available through promotion for matriculate candidates from Class-VII.
In addition to academic qualifications, specific physical requirements have been introduced. The required height for male candidates is 163 cm, while for females, it is 150 cm. Applicants must also pass a Physical Fitness Test, which includes a 25 km walk for males and a 16 km walk for females, both to be completed within four hours.
The amendment marks a significant step in aligning recruitment standards with the demands of forest conservation, ensuring that future foresters are well-equipped both academically and physically to serve in this critical role.
This notification is intended for immediate implementation, and the Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, has submitted it for further action and compliance across relevant departments.
