Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) has announced a comprehensive recruitment drive for various Group C posts including Forester, Forest Guard, and Excise Constable. This long-form job description provides detailed information about the recruitment process, eligibility criteria, salary structures, application procedures, examination pattern, physical standards, and other essential guidelines to assist prospective candidates in understanding and preparing for the upcoming vacancies. All interested applicants are encouraged to read this detail meticulously to ensure compliance with the requirements and to maximize their chances of selection.
OSSSC Forester, Forest Guard & Excise Constable Recruitment 2026 Details
Overview of the Recruitment
The Odisha Subordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) has released a notification for the recruitment of 1518 Group C posts in various departments. The positions available are Forester, Forest Guard, and Excise Constable, with specific number of vacancies allocated for each post. The recruitment aims to fill these positions with eligible and qualified candidates on contractual and permanent basis.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Company/Organization | Odisha Sub-ordinate Staff Selection Commission (OSSSC) |
| Posts | Forester, Forest Guard, Excise Constable |
| Total Vacancies | 1518 |
| Last Date to Apply | 07 February 2026 |
| Application Start Date | 07 January 2026 |
| Official Website | www.osssc.gov.in |
| Application Mode | Online |
Salary and Pay Scale
The salary structures for the respective posts are as follows:
| Post | Pay Scale | Pay Matrix Level | Cell |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forester | ₹ 25,500 – ₹ 81,100 | Level-7 | Cell-1 |
| Forest Guard | ₹ 19,900 – ₹ 63,200 | Level-4 | Cell-1 |
| Excise Constable | ₹ 19,900 – ₹ 63,200 | Level-4 | Cell-1 |
Educational Qualification Criteria
Eligibility requirements are specific for each position:
- Forester: Passed +2 Science (Intermediate) with basic computer knowledge from a recognized Board or University.
- Forest Guard: High School Certificate (10+2) from a recognized Board or Institution.
- Excise Constable: Passed +2 Examination or equivalent with recognized academic bodies.
Age Limit & Relaxations
The age criteria as of 1st January 2025 are as follows:
- Forester: 18 – 32 years
- Forest Guard: 18 – 32 years
- Excise Constable: 21 – 32 years
Relaxation in upper age limit is permissible for reserved categories, ex-servicemen, and persons with disabilities as per Odisha government rules:
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| SC/ST/SEBC | Up to 5 years |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) | Up to 10 years |
| Ex-Servicemen | As per defence service period, with conditions |
Application Fees
In accordance with Odisha government rules, application fees are as follows:
- General, OBC, EWS candidates: ₹ 500
- SC, ST, PwD candidates: Exempted
Fees can be paid online via Net Banking, Debit/Credit Card, or UPI. Refunds are available post-examination upon verification of attendance.
Vacancy Distribution & Posting Details
Vacancy Breakdown for Forester
Forester vacancies are divided regionally across various territorial circles:
| Territorial Circle | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Angul | 8 |
| Baripada | 1 |
| Berhampur | 15 |
| Koraput | 4 |
| Rourkela | 7 |
| Sambalpur | 12 |
| Total | 47 |
Forest Guard Vacancy Breakdown
Divisional-wise vacancy details are provided in Annexure-II, categorizing vacancies among UR, ST, SC, SEBC (including women), and Ex-Servicemen in each division.
Excise Constable District-wise Vacancy
| District | Number of Vacancies |
|---|---|
| Angul | 21 |
| Balangir | 23 |
| Balasore | 38 |
| Bargarh | 7 |
| Bhadrak | 16 |
| Total | 575 |
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Specific educational qualifications, age limits, and other criteria are established for each position:
- Valid Odia language proficiency, demonstrated through Middle English School Examination or equivalent.
- Citizenship: Must be Indian residents with good moral character.
- Marital Status: Must be unmarried or married with restrictions regarding multiple spouses based on personal laws.
- Special Reservation & Criteria: Applicants claiming quotas such as sportspersons, PwDs, ESM, and SC/ST/SEBC categories must meet respective eligibility markers and upload requisite documents.
Physical Standards & Medical Fitness
For Forester and Forest Guard:
- Minimum height and chest measurements specific to male and female candidates based on their categories.
- Color blindness and certain physical deformities are disqualifications.
For Excise Constable:
- Must meet height, weight, and chest measurement standards, with no physical deformities or impairments affecting performance.
- Note: Persons with disabilities are not eligible for Excise Constable positions.
Selection Process and Examination Pattern
Stage I: Written Test
The written examination will consist of multiple choice questions (MCQs) with a total of 100 marks, divided into the following segments:
| Subject | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | 20 | 20 | 1½ hours |
| General Studies | 25 | 25 | 1½ hours |
| English | 20 | 20 | 1½ hours |
| Odia | 15 | 15 | 1½ hours |
| Computer Awareness | 20 | 20 | 1½ hours |
Negative marking applies: ¼ mark deduction per wrong answer. Candidates must attain minimum qualifying marks: 30% for SC/ST/PwD/Ex-Servicemen and 35% for other categories.
Stage II: Physical Standards & Efficiency Tests
All shortlisted candidates from the written test will undergo physical measurement and efficiency tests:
- Physical Standard Measurements such as height, chest, and weight are assessed based on categories.
- Physical Efficiency Tests include endurance walking for Forester and Forest Guard, and running plus long jumps for Excise Constable.
Failure to clear these physical requirements results in disqualification.
Final Merit & Selection
The final selection will be based on merit obtained in the written test, physical tests, and category-wise reservation criteria. The provisional merit list will be prepared, followed by document verification and counseling. The list of selected candidates will be published on the official website.
Important Documents & Certificates
Applicants must upload scanned copies of:
- Educational certificates (Mark sheets, degree, or equivalent)
- Relevant domicile or residence proof
- Odisha language proficiency certificate
- Category certificate (SC/ST/SEBC) if applicable
- PWD certificate / UDID card if claiming reservation under PwD quota
- Sportsperson Identity Card, if applicable
- Ex-Serviceman discharge or service certificate
- Recent passport size photograph and signature (preferably JPG/JPEG format)
Links to Important Resources
- Official Notification PDF
- Apply Online
- Join OSSSC Telegram Channel, WhatsApp Group, and follow Sarkari Result for updates.
Application Steps
For New Users (Registration)
Visit www.osssc.gov.in and click on “Apply Online”. Follow these steps:
- Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill the registration form with personal details, educational qualifications, and category information.
- Pay application fee online, if applicable.
- Generate your registration ID and password.
For Registered Users (Re-Registration & Application Submission)
- Log in using User ID and Password.
- Fill in the detailed application form with personal, educational, and category details.
- Upload scanned documents and photographs.
- Pay the examination fee online.
- Submit the application and download/print the confirmation receipt for future reference.
Preparation Tips & Resources
Prospective candidates should focus on developing their knowledge in general studies, mathematics, English, Odia language, and computer awareness. Practice previous years’ questions, attempt mock tests available online, and review the official syllabus thoroughly.
Moreover, physical fitness is essential for qualifying in physical standards and efficiency tests. Regular physical activity, endurance training, and proper diet will aid in this regard.
Important Dates Recap
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Start | 07 January 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 07 February 2026 |
| Examination Date | To be announced (expected after application process) |
Additional Information
The Odisha OSSSC reserves the right to modify or cancel any part of the recruitment process at any stage. All candidates are advised to regularly check the official website for updates, admit cards, and announcements. Ensure all submitted information and documents are authentic and accurate to avoid disqualification.
For further guidance or assistance, candidates can consult official notices or contact OSSSC support through their official channels.
All the best for your preparation and upcoming examinations! For detailed information, refer to the official notification PDF.