The Indian Forest Service is responsible for the protection, conservation and management of forests. The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) is responsible for recruitment and training.

Eligibility: 21-30 yrs of age.
Bachelor's degree in any one of the following:
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science / Chemistry / Botany / Geology / Mathematics / Physics / Statistics / Zoology or Agriculture / Forestry / Engineering (agricultural/civil/mechanical/social)

Entrance Examination:
This is conducted by the UPSC in July-August. It is necessary to apply between January-February. There is a written examination with two compulsory (including a General Knowledge paper) and two optional subjects, in English. This is followed by an interview carrying 150 marks, whose objective is to test the candidate's personality as well as general knowledge.

Benefits: The forest service can put you in touch with nature and allow you to pursue interests like ornithology and wildlife photography. You will be required to deal with local people, educate them about conservation and even formulate policies at the higher level for which management skills and administrative abilities are preferred qualities. You will have to deal directly with policy implementation. The job will also give you the unique advantage of being able to work amidst the beauty of nature, while allowing you the means and position to ensure its protection.

The hierarchy of employment for an IFS officer is as follows:
Assistant Conservator of Forests
District Conservator of Forests
Conservator of Forests
Chief Conservator of Forests
Principal Conservator of Forests
Inspector-General of Forests