Uttar Pradesh Forest Guard Salary 2025: Pay Scale, Allowances & Benefits

Uttar Pradesh Forest Guard Salary 2025: Pay Scale, Allowances & Benefits

Serving as a Forest Guard within the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department is a Group-C level government role. This position entails crucial responsibilities focused on conserving Uttar Pradesh’s forests, wildlife, and natural resources. Key duties involve patrolling forest areas, preventing unlawful activities, and actively participating in conservation initiatives. This role offers stable employment, a competitive salary, and opportunities for career progression, making it suitable for individuals committed to environmental protection and public service.

UP Forest Guard Pay Scale and Grade Pay

The role of a UP Forest Guard offers a competitive salary structure governed by the 7th Pay Commission. This public sector position is recognized for its compensation and associated government benefits. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pay scale and grade pay components:

1. Pay Scale

Prior to the 7th CPC, the Old Pay Band ranged from ₹5,200 – ₹20,200 . This represented a Pay Band-1 salary, which is typical for Group-C level positions. Following the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission, this pay band was restructured and now corresponds to the Pay Matrix Level 2.

2. Grade Pay

The Grade Pay (pre-revision) was ₹1,900 . With the introduction of the 7th CPC, grade pay was integrated into the Pay Matrix, with ₹1,900 now equating to Level 2 of the Pay Matrix.

3. Basic Pay (Revision of Pay)

The Old Basic Pay was ₹21,700 / per month . This amount represents the starting point within the Pay Matrix Level 2 under the 7th CPC.

UP Forest Guard Salary Structure 2025 – Based on the 7th Pay Commission

The salary for a UP Forest Guard in 2025 adheres to the guidelines of the 7th Central Pay Commission, ensuring a standardized and equitable pay structure. The basic pay is aligned with Pay Matrix Level-2, supplemented by various allowances and benefits. The final in-hand salary is disbursed after standard deductions, including the NPS and applicable taxes. As an individual gains years of service, salary and benefits incrementally increase, alongside opportunities for departmental promotions. This position offers financial stability and promising long-term career growth.

Allowances and Benefits of UP Forest Guard

The position of a UP Forest Guard includes several government-mandated allowances and benefits. These provisions enhance the basic monthly salary, contributing to long-term financial and social security, and also offer protection against job-related risks. Below are detailed explanations of some key components:

1. Dearness Allowance (DA)

DA is provided to offset the effects of inflation. This allowance undergoes revision twice annually, specifically in January and July . It is currently set at 46% of the basic pay, subject to periodic adjustments.

2. House Rent Allowance (HRA)

HRA rates vary depending on the city classification:

• X (Metro Cities) : 27% of the basic pay
• Y (Big Cities) : 18% of the basic pay
• Z (Other Areas) : 9% of the basic pay

3. Medical Allowance

This allowance covers the reimbursement of medical bills for the employee and their family. It also facilitates cashless treatment at government-approved medical facilities. Provisions include regular health examinations and emergency assistance, as per the specific scheme.

4. Travelling and Washing Allowance

• Travelling Allowance (TA) : Provided for official duty travel and commuting to work.
• Washing Allowance : Allocated for the maintenance and washing of the uniform and work attire, if applicable.

5. National Pension Scheme (NPS)

Under the NPS, employees are required to contribute 10% of their basic pay. The employer’s contribution matches that of the employee. These contributions are deposited into a Tier-I NPS Account, designated for post-retirement financial security.

UP Forest Guard Annual Package 2025

The annual package for a UP Forest Guard in 2025 encompasses more than just the monthly salary; it reflects the comprehensive financial support, benefits, and welfare provisions offered by this government role. With a CTC (Cost to Company) valued between ₹3.3 lakh and ₹4 lakh pa , it ensures financial stability and social security. This position presents a promising opportunity for candidates seeking a government role with growth potential and welfare benefits.

UP Forest Guard Salary Growth: Career Progression in Pay

A UP Forest Guard’s salary increases incrementally, structured according to the government’s pay matrix. Employees experience upward growth through annual increments, promotions, and the recommendations of Pay Commissions, typically reviewed every 5-10 years . Sustained service in the guard position ensures progressively higher absolute pay. The duration of service secures substantial salary increases, establishing this role as a significant long-term career opportunity within the public sector.

Salary Growth Highlights

• 1. Annual Increments: The salary increases annually by a fixed amount, aligned with the Level-2 Pay Matrix position.
• 2. 5- Year Salary Increase: A significant salary increase is anticipated after 5 years , resulting from cumulative annual increments and potentially a first promotion, which may include a grade pay increase.
• 3. 10-Year Salary Hike: Over a decade, employees can expect increases in basic salary and allowances. Opportunities for promotion to more senior roles, such as Forester , become available through departmental exams or seniority.
• 4. 7th Pay Commission: Future recommendations from Pay Commission processes, similar to the 7th CPC , are expected to lead to further increments in basic salary and DA.
• 5. Opportunities for Promotions/Exams: As per UP State Government rules, employees may be promoted to State Cadres with higher designations, including Forester , Range Forest Officer (RFO) , and other advanced roles, resulting in new pay levels.

UP Forest Guard Duty – Description of Role

A UP Forest Guard within the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department is tasked with safeguarding forests, wildlife, and ecosystems. This field-based role demands physical stamina, vigilance, and a strong commitment to environmental conservation. Forest Guards serve as front-line territorial protectors, actively addressing forest violations and promoting sustainable forest management. Key responsibilities at the UP Forest Guard Level include:

• Conducting regular patrolling in forest areas to detect and prevent illegal felling, wood theft, illegal hunting, wildlife poaching, and encroachments.
• Utilizing field vehicles and technology to monitor wildlife movements and relay information about unusual activities to the forest command.
• Protecting forest resources, including trees, herbs, and water sources, from damage and misuse.
• Assisting the forest department in activities related to forest fire prevention, detection, and suppression.
• Enforcing regulations and standards on the ground and apprehending forest offenders.
• Maintaining comprehensive logs of forest conditions, including threats, samples, and patrol records.
• Educating visitors, including tourists and villagers, on responsible forest practices.
• Actively participating in afforestation and plantation activities.
• Assisting the UP Forest Department in wildlife management, which may involve netting and capturing wildlife or addressing human-wildlife conflict through relocation or rescue operations.
• Compiling reports on forest crimes and, when appropriate, involving police or a Forest officer as necessary.

The UP Forest Guard position is a respectable and vital government role, contributing significantly to environmental and wildlife protection. It provides stable employment, a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and valuable promotional opportunities. The role demands physical capability, vigilance, and a strong sense of responsibility and duty. For eligible candidates who prepare adequately, this career offers a fulfilling opportunity to contribute to nature and society.

What is the minimum qualification for UP Forest Guard?

Candidates must have passed 12th (Intermediate) from a recognized board.