Forest Guard salary is one of the most searched topics among candidates looking for stable government jobs linked with nature, wildlife protection, and environmental conservation. The Forest Guard post, especially Forest Guard Odisha, attracts aspirants due to job security, respectable pay, and the opportunity to work closely with forests and biodiversity.
This detailed guide explains forest guard salary, forest guard salary in Odisha, pay scale, allowances, probation pay, career growth, and job responsibilities for 2025. The information is based on the reference “Odisha Forest Guard Salary & Job Profile 2025 | Pay Scale & Benefits” and official ORSP norms.
Odisha Forest Guard Salary Structure 2025
The Odisha Forest Guard position falls under the Odisha Revised Scales of Pay (ORSP) Rules, 2017, ensuring a structured and predictable salary system.
Pay Matrix Level
- Pay Matrix Level: Level-4 (ORSP Rules 2017)
Basic Pay
- Starting Basic Pay: ₹19,900 per month
- Maximum Basic Pay: ₹63,200 per month (after years of service and increments)
Pay Band & Grade Pay
- Pay Band: ₹5,200 – ₹20,200 (pre-revised, for reference)
- Grade Pay: ₹1,900
Forest Guard In-Hand Salary in Odisha (2025)
Salary During Probation
- Monthly Pay: Approx. ₹8,880
- Nature: Fixed payment during training/contractual period
- Allowances: Not applicable
Salary After Probation
Once the probation period is successfully completed, the Forest Guard receives full pay and allowances.
- Monthly In-Hand Salary: ₹22,000 – ₹33,700+
- Includes: DA, HRA, TA, and other benefits
Detailed Salary Breakdown Table
| Component | Amount (₹) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Pay | 19,900 – 63,200 | Based on level and service |
| Pay Band | 5,200 – 20,200 | Pre-revised reference |
| Grade Pay | 1,900 | Fixed |
| Probation Pay | ~8,880/month | Fixed |
| Post-Probation In-Hand | 22,000 – 33,700+ | With allowances |
| Annual Package (Probation) | 96,000 – 2,00,000 | Approximate |
Allowances & Perks for Forest Guard Odisha
After confirmation, Forest Guards enjoy multiple government allowances:
Dearness Allowance (DA)
- Current Rate: 53% of Basic Pay (2025)
- Example:
- Basic Pay ₹20,000 → DA ₹10,600
House Rent Allowance (HRA)
- Based on posting location (X, Y, Z city category)
Other Allowances
- Transport Allowance (TA)
- Medical Allowance
- Field / Risk Allowance (where applicable)
- Uniform Allowance
- Paid Leaves & Insurance
Deductions from Forest Guard Salary
- Provident Fund (PF)
- National Pension System (NPS)
- Income Tax (as per slab)
- Professional Tax (if applicable)
Increment Policy for Forest Guard Salary
Annual Increment
- Around 3% increase in Basic Pay every year
DA Revision
- Revised twice a year (January & July)
Impact on Salary
Over time, take-home salary increases due to:
- Annual basic pay increment
- Higher DA rates
- Promotions
Probation & Confirmation Policy
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Probation Duration | 2 Years |
| Purpose | Performance & suitability evaluation |
| Salary During Probation | ₹8,880/month |
| After Confirmation | Full pay + allowances |
| Failure to Confirm | Possible termination |
Forest Guard Job Profile & Responsibilities
Forest Guard work is primarily field-based and physically demanding. It plays a critical role in environmental protection.
Core Duties
- Patrolling forest areas
- Preventing illegal logging and encroachment
- Monitoring wildlife movement
- Controlling poaching and forest crimes
Environmental Activities
- Fire control and prevention
- Afforestation and plantation support
- Wildlife conservation initiatives
Reporting & Documentation
- Daily activity reports
- Incident reporting
- Survey and GPS-based mapping
Community Interaction
- Awareness programs for villagers
- Coordination with tribal communities
- Educating locals on forest laws
Career Growth & Promotion Path in Forest Department
Forest Guard jobs offer long-term growth and promotion opportunities.
| Level | Designation | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Forest Guard | Initial appointment |
| 1st Promotion | Forester | Experience + exam |
| 2nd Promotion | Range Forest Officer (RFO) | Seniority & performance |
| 3rd Promotion | Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) | Higher exam |
| 4th Promotion | Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) | Senior post |
| Top Ranks | Chief Conservator | Cadre rules |
With each promotion, salary, allowances, pension benefits, and authority increase significantly.
Forest Guard Payment Overview (Quick Summary)
- During Probation:
- ₹8,880/month
- No allowances
- After Probation:
- ₹22,000 – ₹33,700+/month
- DA, HRA, TA, medical, risk allowance included
Related Guide on Forest Guard Salary in India
For a national-level overview of Forest Guard pay across states, read this detailed guide:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the starting forest guard salary in Odisha?
The starting basic pay is ₹19,900 per month, with fixed probation pay of around ₹8,880.
What is the in-hand salary after probation?
After probation, the in-hand salary ranges from ₹22,000 to ₹33,700+ per month.
What allowances are included in forest guard salary?
DA, HRA, TA, medical allowance, uniform allowance, and risk allowance (if applicable).
How long is the probation period?
The probation period is 2 years from the date of joining.
Are promotion opportunities available for Forest Guards?
Yes, promotions are available up to senior administrative posts like DFO and Chief Conservator.
Final Thoughts
Forest Guard salary in Odisha offers a balanced mix of financial stability, social respect, and meaningful work. With structured pay increments, allowances, and promotions, the Forest Guard Odisha role remains one of the most secure and purpose-driven government jobs in India for 2025.