Introduction to the Indian Forest Service (IFoS)

The Indian Forest Service (IFoS) is a distinguished branch of the civil services in India, dedicated to the management and conservation of the country’s diverse forest resources. Established in 1966, IFoS plays a vital role in preserving India’s natural environment, balancing ecological needs with sustainable development.

As an integral part of the Government of India, IFoS is tasked with overseeing the country’s vast forested areas, which are crucial for biodiversity, climate regulation, and the livelihoods of many communities. The service is committed to implementing policies and strategies that ensure the sustainable use of forest resources while protecting wildlife and maintaining ecological stability.

IFoS officers are responsible for a range of functions, including forest management, wildlife conservation, policy enforcement, and community engagement. Their work involves managing national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and forest reserves, as well as engaging in research to improve conservation practices and address environmental challenges.

Becoming an IFoS officer requires a rigorous selection process, including a competitive examination and extensive training at the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA). Upon completion of their training, officers are posted across various states and regions, where they contribute to the protection and sustainable management of India’s rich natural heritage.

Overall, the Indian Forest Service represents a prestigious and impactful career choice for individuals passionate about environmental conservation and committed to preserving India’s forests and wildlife for future generations.

Role and Responsibilities

IFoS officers play a crucial role in the protection, conservation, and sustainable management of forests and wildlife. Their key responsibilities include:

  • Forest Management: Overseeing the management and conservation of forests, including afforestation, reforestation, and sustainable use of forest resources.
  • Wildlife Conservation: Protecting endangered species and managing wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
  • Policy Implementation: Implementing national policies related to forestry, wildlife, and environment.
  • Research and Development: Conducting research to improve forest management practices and enhance biodiversity.
  • Community Engagement: Working with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods and forest conservation.

Career Opportunities

A career in IFoS offers diverse opportunities, including:

  • Forest Officer: Managing forest resources and implementing conservation strategies.
  • Wildlife Warden: Protecting wildlife and managing protected areas.
  • Researcher: Conducting studies on forest ecosystems and wildlife.
  • Policy Advisor: Formulating and advising on policies related to environment and forestry.

Skills Required

To excel in the IFoS, candidates should possess:

  • Leadership Skills: Ability to lead and manage teams in challenging environments.
  • Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing data and making informed decisions.
  • Communication Skills: Effective communication with stakeholders and the public.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Aptitude for addressing complex environmental issues.

IFoS Eligibility Criteria

NationalityCitizen of India
EducationGraduate from a Science or Engineering Background
IFoS Age Limit21-32 years ( excluding relaxation category)
No. of Attempts

General – 6

SC/ST- Unlimited

OBC – 9

Physically Handicapped – 9

IFoS Syllabus 2024

IFoS Syllabus for Prelims:

The UPSC Indian Forest Service Syllabus for prelims is the same as that of the UPSC Civil Services Examination Prelims syllabus. The Prelims syllabus consists of two papers- General Studies-1 and General Studies-2 (CSAT).

General Studies-1Current events of national and international importance, History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, Indian Polity and Governance, Economic and Social Development, General issues on Environmental Ecology, Biodiversity, and Climate Change, General Science
CSATComprehension, Logical reasoning, and analytical ability. Decision-making, Interpersonal skills including communication skills and problem-solving, General mental ability, Basic numeracy – Class X level), and Data interpretation.

 

Indian Forest Service Syllabus for Mains:

Once candidates successfully clear the IFoS Prelims exam, they are required to appear in the IFoS Mains exam. It’s important to note that the syllabus for the IFoS Mains exam is entirely different from the CSE Mains syllabus.

The IFoS Mains exam consists of six papers, and candidates are also required to select two optional subjects specifically for the IFoS exam. Each of these IFoS optional subjects includes two papers, resulting in a total of four optional papers.

PaperName of the PaperSyllabusMarks
Paper-1General EnglishComprehension of given passages, Precis Writing, Usage and Vocabulary, Short Essay300
Paper-2General KnowledgeCurrent events, Political system, the constitution of India, History, geography, etc.300
Paper-3Optional-3Depending on the chosen subject from the IFoS optional subjects400
Paper-4
Paper-5Optional -4Depending on the chosen subject from the IFoS optional list.400

IFoS Cut Off

Here is the cut-off based on the UPSC Indian Forest Services final result for 2022. The cut-off for UPSC IFoS 2023 will be released once the examination procedure is completed.

CategoryFinal Cut-off Marks (Out of 1700)
General900-910
OBC860-870
SC800-810
ST815-825
PwBD-2785-795
PwBD-3690-700

IFoS Pay Scale

Grade Wise Monthly Salary of Forest Officials
S. No.GradeDesignation in Government of IndiaBasic Monthly SalaryDesignation in State Government
1.Junior Time ScaleAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 56,100Assistant Conservator of Forests/ Assistant Deputy Conservator of Forests
2.Senior Time ScaleAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 67,700Deputy conservator of Forests
3.Junior Administrative GradeAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 78,800Deputy conservator of Forests
4.Selection GradeAssistant Inspector General of ForestsINR 1,18,500Deputy conservator of Forests (Selection Grade)
5.Super Time ScaleDeputy Inspector General of ForestsINR I,50,000Conservator of Forests/Chief Wildlife Warden
6.Senior Administrative GradeInspector General of ForestsINR 1,75,000Chief Conservator of Forests
7.HAG ScaleINR 2,00,000Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests
8.HAG+ ScaleAdditional Director General of ForestsINR 2,05,400Principal Conservator of Forests
9.Apex ScaleDirector-General of ForestsINR 2,25,000Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force)

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