If you’re looking for a prestigious government job in Himachal Pradesh’s forestry department, the HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025 is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. The Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) has officially opened the application window for the Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) position under the Himachal Pradesh Forest Service (HPFS) for the year 2025. This recruitment not only promises a stable career with good growth prospects but also offers a chance to contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable forest management in the state.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down all you need to know about the recruitment process, important dates, eligibility criteria, application procedure, and much more. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or a working professional eyeing this role, this article will make the entire process approachable and clear.
Key Summary: HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Authority | Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) |
| Post Name | Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) |
| Total Vacancies | 08 |
| Application Start Date | May 14, 2025 |
| Application End Date | June 10, 2025 |
| Application Fee | ₹600 (General/EWS males), ₹150 (SC/ST/OBC males), ₹0 (Females & Ex-servicemen) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (General), relaxation applicable |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s Degree in Science/Engineering with specified subjects |
| Physical Standards | Height & chest measurements with walking test |
| Selection Process | Preliminary Exam → Main Exam → Physical Test → Interview |
| Official Website | hppsc.hp.gov.in |
The HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025 offers a rewarding career opportunity for candidates interested in forestry and environmental management in Himachal Pradesh. The role demands a balance of academic knowledge and physical fitness, making it a unique and challenging position in the government sector. By carefully understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and selection stages outlined in this guide, candidates can confidently navigate the recruitment journey.
Remember to stay updated with official notifications and prepare diligently. This job not only promises career stability but also allows you to serve nature and society simultaneously—making it a truly fulfilling career choice.
What is HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025?
The Himachal Pradesh Forest Service (HPFS) is a state-level civil service responsible for managing forest resources, protecting wildlife, and ensuring sustainable environmental practices within Himachal Pradesh. The Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) is a key officer role in this service, tasked with overseeing forest divisions and implementing policies related to forestry and ecology.
The HPPSC conducts this recruitment to fill vacancies for ACF positions, ensuring that qualified and dedicated candidates join the forest department. This role is significant not only for career growth but also for those passionate about environmental stewardship.
Important Dates to Remember
Keeping track of deadlines is crucial when applying for government jobs. Here’s the timeline for HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025:
- Start of Online Application: May 14, 2025
- Last Date to Apply Online: June 10, 2025 (11:59 PM)
- Last Date for Fee Payment: June 10, 2025 (11:59 PM)
- Preliminary Exam Date: To be announced by HPPSC
- Main Exam & Further Process: Dates to be notified after prelims
Make sure to apply early and verify all details on the official HPPSC website to avoid last-minute issues.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent from a recognized university, with at least one of the following subjects:
- Agriculture
- Botany
- Chemistry
- Computer Applications/Science
- Engineering (Agricultural, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical)
- Environmental Science
- Forestry
- Geology
- Horticulture
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
- Veterinary Science
- Zoology
Alternatively, candidates holding an Honours Certificate from Government-run Forest Rangers Colleges, sponsored by the state government, are also eligible.
Age Limit
- General category: Maximum 35 years as of January 1, 2025
- Government servants: Maximum 42 years
- Age Relaxation: Up to 5 years for SC/ST/OBC candidates of Himachal Pradesh
Always verify the age criteria based on your category and recent government orders for any additional relaxations.
Physical Standards
The role demands good physical fitness, given the fieldwork involved. The required standards are:
| Parameter | Male Candidates | Female Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Minimum 163 cm | Minimum 150 cm |
| Chest | 79-84 cm (expanded) | 74-79 cm (expanded) |
| Walking Test | 25 km in 4 hours | 16 km in 4 hours |
There may be relaxations in physical standards for candidates from reserved categories. Physical endurance is critical for success in this role.
Application Fee Details
- General/EWS (Male): ₹600
- SC/ST/OBC (Male): ₹150
- Ex-Servicemen of HP: No fee
- Female candidates: No fee
Payments should be made online only through the official HPPSC portal. Keep a copy of your payment receipt for future reference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Online
Applying for the HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025 is straightforward if you follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the Official HPPSC Website: Navigate to hppsc.hp.gov.in.
- Register for One-Time Registration (OTR): New users must create an OTR profile with valid details and documents. Existing users can log in directly.
- Find the Recruitment Notification: Look for the advertisement titled “HPFS Assistant Conservator of Forests Recruitment 2025.”
- Fill the Online Application Form: Provide accurate personal, educational, and category-related information. Upload scanned copies of your photo, signature, and certificates as required.
- Pay the Application Fee: Complete the payment through the provided online payment gateway.
- Submit the Application: Review all information carefully before final submission.
- Print the Application Form: Keep a hard copy or PDF for your records and future reference.
Always double-check your entries to avoid disqualification due to incorrect data.
Understanding the Selection Process
The recruitment is conducted in multiple stages to ensure only the most suitable candidates are selected:
1. Preliminary Examination
- Objective-type questions
- 100 questions, 100 marks
- Covers general knowledge, forestry-related subjects, and reasoning
2. Main Examination
- Written exam with compulsory and optional papers
- Subjects include Forestry, General Science, and others related to the field
- More detailed and specialized than prelims
3. Physical Standard Test
- Candidates who clear the main exam must undergo physical fitness tests as per standards
- Includes walking tests and measurement verification
4. Interview / Personality Test
- Evaluates candidate’s personality, communication skills, and suitability for the role
5. Document Verification
- Candidates must produce original certificates and documents to confirm eligibility
Candidates who successfully clear all stages are then selected for appointment as Assistant Conservators of Forests.
Career Growth and Salary Prospects
The ACF post in HPFS is a Group A officer position, offering a promising career path with:
- Starting Salary: Approximately ₹56,100 per month (Level 10 in Pay Matrix)
- Promotions: Opportunities to advance to Conservator of Forests, Deputy Director, and higher administrative positions
- Additional Perks: Housing, medical benefits, travel allowances, and pension benefits as per government norms
Working in this role not only offers financial stability but also the chance to impact forest conservation policies directly.
Tips to Prepare for HPPSC HPFS ACF Recruitment 2025
- Understand the Syllabus: Focus on forestry-related subjects, environmental science, and current affairs relevant to Himachal Pradesh.
- Practice Physical Fitness: Regular walking and exercise to meet physical standards confidently.
- Previous Year Papers: Solve past HPPSC papers to get familiar with question patterns.
- Stay Updated: Follow official HPPSC notifications for any changes in exam dates or syllabus.
- Time Management: Create a study schedule balancing prelims, mains, and physical test preparation.
Consistent effort combined with a strategic approach can significantly improve your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can candidates from outside Himachal Pradesh apply?
No, this recruitment is primarily for candidates domiciled in Himachal Pradesh, especially for reserved categories.
Q2: Is there a reservation for women candidates?
Yes, there are reserved vacancies and relaxations available for female candidates as per government policy.
Q3: What documents are required for the application?
Educational certificates, domicile certificate, caste certificate (if applicable), physical fitness certificates, and identity proof are required.
Q4: Can government employees apply for this post?
Yes, government servants can apply, and they have an upper age relaxation of up to 42 years.
Q5: Will the exam be offline or online?
The preliminary exam is generally conducted offline at designated centers.
