MP Forest Guard and Jail Department Recruitment 2026: Application Deadline Approaches
The Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) in Bhopal is set to conclude the online application process for its significant recruitment drive for Forest Guard, Field Guard, Jail Prahari, and Assistant Jail Superintendent positions tomorrow, March 14, 2026. This recruitment initiative aims to fill a total of 1,679 vacancies across two key departments of the Madhya Pradesh government, offering numerous employment opportunities for eligible candidates.
Vacancy Distribution and Departmental Breakdown
Under this comprehensive recruitment campaign, the MPESB has announced vacancies in both the Forest Department and the Jail Department. The post-wise distribution of these 1,679 positions is as follows:
- Forest Guard (Van Rakshak): 728 posts
- Field Guard (Kshetra Rakshak): 169 posts
- Jail Prahari (Warder): 757 posts
- Assistant Jail Superintendent: 25 posts
These roles are critical for maintaining law and order, environmental conservation, and administrative efficiency within the state.
Eligibility Criteria and Age Requirements
Prospective applicants must meet specific educational and age criteria to be considered for these positions. For the Forest Guard, Field Guard, and Jail Prahari posts, candidates need to have successfully passed Class 10 from a recognized board. In contrast, the Assistant Jail Superintendent post requires a graduate degree from a recognized university.
The age limits vary by position. Candidates applying for Forest Guard, Field Guard, and Jail Prahari must be between 18 and 33 years of age. For the Assistant Jail Superintendent role, the age range is 21 to 33 years. It is important to note that age will be calculated as of January 1, 2026. Additionally, the MPESB provides upper age relaxation for candidates belonging to reserved categories, in accordance with established government rules and regulations.
Application Fee Structure and Payment Mode
The application fee for this recruitment drive is structured based on category. Candidates from the General, Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) categories are required to pay Rs 500. For candidates belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), female, Physically Handicapped (PH), and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) categories, the fee is reduced to Rs 250.
All application fees must be paid exclusively through online modes, ensuring a streamlined and secure transaction process for applicants.
Selection Process and Key Dates
The selection procedure for these positions involves multiple stages designed to assess candidates thoroughly. It will commence with a written examination, followed by a skill test. Those who qualify in these initial phases will be invited for document verification and a medical examination before the final appointment is confirmed.
Important dates for this recruitment include:
- Official notification release: February 27, 2026
- Online application start date: February 28, 2026
- Last date to submit applications: March 14, 2026
- Correction window for submitted forms: Until March 19, 2026
- Computer-based test commencement: From April 7, 2026
How to Apply and Official Portals
Interested and eligible candidates who have not yet submitted their applications are urged to complete the registration process before the impending deadline. Applications must be submitted online through the official websites of the Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board. The primary portals for application submission are esb.mp.gov.in and esb.mponline.gov.in.
Applicants are advised to review all details carefully, ensure they meet the eligibility criteria, and submit their forms with accurate information to avoid any last-minute issues. This recruitment presents a valuable opportunity for job seekers in Madhya Pradesh to secure stable government positions in vital sectors.
