Forest Section Officer Salary 2025(APPSC): Group, In-hand Salary, Job Profile and Promotions

Forest Section Officer Salary in AP (Andhra Pradesh)

The Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has announced the 2025 notification for Forest Section Officer positions across the state. These roles offer a pay scale ranging from Rs. 21,230 to Rs. 63,010. While the pay scale is fixed, the overall compensation package, including various allowances, perks, and benefits, makes the in-hand salary for an APPSC Forest Section Officer a compelling prospect. This article provides comprehensive details on the monthly salary and allowances for an APPSC Forest Section Officer in 2025.

Candidates selected as Forest Section Officers through the APPSC in 2025 will receive various allowances and facilities from the state government. These include provisions for conveyance, halting, and medical aid, alongside other benefits.

Note:The exact amount will change based on things like deductions, where they are stationed, and how long they’ve worked. The allowances, and in-hand salary may vary depending upon various factors. For exact details, refer to official notifications.

In 2025, a Forest Section Officer (FSO) recruited by the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) is projected to receive a monthly salary between ₹34,000 and ₹49,000. The APPSC (Group IIB services) is the recruiting body for these positions, with work locations spanning forest areas throughout Andhra Pradesh. The core job profile involves forest management, where FSOs are tasked with safeguarding forests, supervising forest guards, preventing illegal activities, and conserving wildlife and plants. Career progression allows FSOs to advance to positions such as Assistant Conservator of Forests and subsequently Divisional Forest Officer, subject to passing required examinations. For a broader perspective, consider comparing this salary with theForest Beat Officer Salary 2025 | Pay Scale, In-Hand Salary & Perks.

Perks and Benefits Besides Salary (APPSC FSO)

Beyond the basic salary and various allowances, Forest Section Officers (FSOs) appointed through the APPSC in Andhra Pradesh are entitled to several additional benefits. These benefits encompass government housing or a housing allowance, travel funds for field duties, reimbursement for medical expenses for both the officer and their family, and access to government health schemes such as EHS. They also receive pension and retirement plans under NPS, along with various categories of paid leave. Valuable field experience gained in this role contributes positively to promotion prospects. Furthermore, FSOs are provided with uniforms and essential gear for their duties. This role offers a secure and respected career path, providing an opportunity to contribute significantly to environmental protection. You can also exploreAPPSC Group 2 Posts 2025: All Salary and Designation DetailsandAPPSC Group 1 Salary 2025, Pay Scale and In-hand Salary Per Month with Allowances.

Promotions (APPSC FSO)

Forest Section Officers (FSOs) recruited via the APPSC in Andhra Pradesh have a clear path for career advancement within the department. Starting as FSOs, they can aspire to promotion to Forest Range Officer (FRO) upon successfully passing departmental tests and accumulating sufficient seniority and positive performance evaluations. Further experience and specialized training can lead to higher positions, including Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF), Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), and even Conservator of Forests (CF). The availability of promotions is contingent upon vacant positions, successful annual performance reviews, and the completion of mandatory training programs. This progression offers significant career growth and increased responsibilities in forest management and environmental conservation. It is important to note that Forest Service Officers do not automatically become Indian Forest Service officers. However, promotion to the IFoS is possible if they reach the ACF/DC level, fulfill the stipulated requirements, and are selected under a specific promotion quota. Such promotions typically occur after many years (usually 15+) of state service, based on factors like seniority, job performance, and the presence of open IFoS positions. For related information, refer to:Indian Forest Service Salary, Allowances, Perks, Benefits and PromotionsandIndian Forest Service Pay Rules.

Forest Section Officer (FSO) Job Profile in Andhra Pradesh

Within the AP Forest Department, the role of a Forest Section Officer (FSO) in Andhra Pradesh is critical for the conservation and administration of forest resources. Their primary duties involve supervising designated forest areas, actively combating illegal logging and poaching, and ensuring strict adherence to environmental regulations. FSOs are also responsible for maintaining forest boundaries, conducting regular field inspections, monitoring wildlife activities, and overseeing forest plantations. Additionally, they prepare reports on forest health, conduct land surveys, and contribute to the management of afforestation initiatives. Beyond their enforcement and conservation tasks, FSOs engage collaboratively with local communities to foster sustainable forest practices. This can involve organizing awareness programs, supporting eco-tourism ventures, and aiding in the implementation of government schemes focused on forest development. As frontline officers, they serve as a vital connection between higher forest authorities and forest guards. The nature of their work demands physical fitness, leadership capabilities, practical field skills, and a deep commitment to environmental preservation. Further insights into related topics can be found inDifference Between National Parks and Wildlife SanctuariesandForester Salary in India 2025, Pay Scale, In-Hand Salary, Perks & Career Growth.

Forest Section Officer (FSO) Salary in Telangana

For 2025, the monthly salary for a Forest Section Officer in Telangana falls within the range of ₹51,320 to ₹1,27,310, aligning with Pay Level 20 as established by the Telangana government. Following various deductions, the typical in-hand salary generally ranges from ₹48,000 to ₹65,000 per month. This figure is subject to variation based on factors such as an officer’s experience, their posting location (urban or rural), and other relevant considerations. FSOs also receive additional benefits like Dearness Allowance (DA), House Rent Allowance (HRA), and Travel Allowance (TA), which augment their total monthly earnings. Given the frequent field duties, FSOs stationed in remote forest areas may also be eligible for special forest duty pay and risk pay.

Salary Comparison Between Both States for FSO

When comparing salaries, Forest Section Officers in Telangana generally receive a slightly higher take-home pay. This difference primarily stems from a typically better starting pay grade and more favorable Housing Rent Allowance, particularly for those posted in urban centers like Hyderabad. Nevertheless, both states offer comparable opportunities for career advancement and overall benefits within the forest service.