Whether you're an aspiring candidate or already an employee, it is essential to know the salary structure, in-hand pay, allowances and streams of career advancement associated with this post. This guide serves to define what is expected out of the Forest Guard position in Gujarat for 2025. |
Introduction
The Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) represents the frontline protection of forests in Gujarat. The State has a rich biodiversity, and the Forest Guard protects the biodiversity of the State. The duties of the Forest Guard includes patrolling forests and forest areas, deterring illegal activities such as poaching and logging, and assisting in monitoring ecological and wildlife.
As of 2025, this position is not only an absolutely respected line of work, but it is also a very secure government position. The position provides a great sense of purpose as well as a secure career under the government. The salary has been revised under the 7th Pay Commission; thus the Forest Guard post has retained its salary, allowances, perks, and pension benefits. Because of this unique combination, Forest Guards are becoming even more desirable jobs to obtain by government job aspirants in Gujarat.
Gujarat Forest Guard Pay Scale 2025
The Gujarat Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) is a Level-3 post situated under the 7th Pay Scale provided by the Government of India. The Gujarat Forest Guard provides qualified applicants with an opportunity for assured income as well as long-term career development; however, the state government has a new hire 'fixed-pay' policy in effect.
Fixed pay: (The probation period)
- Monthly Salary: ₹18,400
- Duration: for the first five years in accordance with existing probation rules and policies of Gujarat State Government
- Annual Package (CTC): ~₹2.20 lakhs
- Allowances: only limited or nonexistent during the fixed-pay period.
Post-Probation Salary & Benefits
Upon successful completion of the probation period of five years, the Forest Guard will become eligible for:
- Regular pay scale (level-3) (₹19,900 – ₹63,200)
- DA as per current rate (DA-linked to inflation)
- HRA (House Rent Allowance) as per posting location
- TA (Transport Allowance) etc.
- Annual increments and promotions in accordance with Gujarat Government service rules and policies.
In Hand Salary & Allowances in Hand
Probation (First 5 Years)
- Fixed Salary in Hand: ₹ 18,400/month
- Allowances: Not applicable or minimal
After (Post) Confirmation
- Revised Basic Pay: ₹ 21,700 and above (Level-3 starting point)
Allowances:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): ~53% of Basic Pay (as of April 2025);
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): based on city classification;
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical Allowances
Other government benefits
- Total In Hand Salary (Post Probation): can be in excess of ₹ 33,700/month depending on posting place, current DA (Dearness Allowance) rates.
Other Benefits
- Pension & Retirement Benefits Scheme
- Provident Fund (PF)
- Paid Leaves & Public Holidays (Government Holidays);
- Health Insurance and Welfare Facility
Probation, Confirmation & Increment Policy - Gujarat Forest Guard
Probation
- Time: 5 years
- Remuneration: A fixed monthly Salary of ₹18,400/- (no grade pay, or full allowances)
- During this period the guard is evaluated based on performance and conduct, as well as field competency.
Confirmation
- If the probation period was successfully completed:
- Pay will be regularized at Level-3 as per the 7th Pay Commission
- Will be entitled to Dearness Allowance (DA), HRA, TA and any other benefits that the state approves.
Increment Policy
- There is a pay increment according to an annual crest.
- There is eligibility for promotions (if applicable), departmental examinations, and time bound promotions.
- Pay will scale within the Level-3 pay band ₹(21,700 - 63,200).
Salary Slip and Deductions
The monthly salary slip of a Forest Guard in Gujarat includes details such as:
Earnings
- Basic Pay (₹18,400 during probationary period; ₹21,700+ after confirmation)
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Transport Allowance (TA)
Other allowances (Medical, Risk, etc.) if applicable.
Deductions Contributory Provident Fund (CPF/NPS)
- Professional Tax
- Income Tax (if applicable)
- Net Pay = Gross Earnings – Statutory Deductions
- This is the salary credited monthly to the employee's account in hand.
Career Advancement and Promotion
- The career pathway for Forest Guards in Gujarat has clearly defined career advancement opportunities such as:
Promotional Hierarchy
- Forest Guard (Van Rakshak) - entry-level
- Forester (Vanpal) - after examination and experience
- Deputy Range Forest Officer
- Range Forest Officer (RFO) - after further service and qualification
Advancement Opportunities
- Departmental Exams- regular basis for promotion
- Increment based on performance
- Training Program: wildlife management, forest fire management, eco-tourism, etc.
Job Title and Responsibilities
Forest Guards represent the frontline of wildlife and environmental protection. Under the direct supervision of the District Forest Officers, they perform critical functions that include:
Domain | Responsibilities |
Forest Patrolling | Regular patrols to monitor forest areas and prevent illegal entry |
Wildlife Protection | Preventingpoaching, monitoring animal activity |
Anti-Encroachment Duties | Preventingillegal tree felling, encroachment, and smuggling |
Fire & Disaster Response | Controllingforest fires, aiding in disaster management efforts |
Conservation Assistance | Supporting wildlife projects and eco-sensitive programs |
Reporting & Record-Keeping | Maintaining patrol logs, incident reports, and coordination with superiors |
Comparison to Other States - 2025
The Forest Guard position in Gujarat remains competitive, matched with salary and security in other highest ranking states:
State | Initial Salary (₹/month) | Probation Period | Post-Probation Salary |
Gujarat | ₹18,400 | 5 years | ₹33,700+ with allowances |
Maharashtra | ₹21,700 | 2 years | ₹35,000 – ₹44,000 |
Madhya Pradesh | ₹19,500 | 3 years | ₹32,000 – ₹42,000 |
Rajasthan | ₹18,000 | 2 years | ₹31,000 – ₹41,000 |
Karnataka | ₹23,500 | 2 years | ₹33,700 – ₹45,500 |
