ICFRE HFRI Project Assistant Recruitment 2026

Introduction

The Indian Council of Forestry Research (ICFRE) is a premier autonomous body under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. It plays a pivotal role in promoting research and development in the field of forestry, agroforestry, and related disciplines to ensure sustainable management of forest resources. One of its prestigious institutes, the Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI), has announced a significant recruitment drive for the year 2026. They are looking to hire dedicated individuals for the position of Project Assistant.

This specific vacancy is geared towards candidates who possess a passion for environmental science, specifically in the domain of medicinal plants and forest conservation. Working under the banner of ICFRE-HFRI offers a unique opportunity to work in some of the most ecologically significant regions of India, including Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh. The role of a Project Assistant is crucial as it involves active participation in data collection, field surveys, and research activities aimed at preserving our natural heritage. For job seekers who possess a background in Forestry or Medical sciences and are willing to work in challenging terrains, this recruitment serves as an excellent platform to build a career in government-sponsored research projects. The organization seeks candidates who not only have the technical knowledge but also the physical stamina and willingness to conduct surveys in mountainous regions.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Application Fee

| Free (No fee required) | | Last Date to Apply | July 02, 2026 | | Location | Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh | | Selection Mode | Interview Based |

Post-wise Vacancy Details

The recruitment is specifically targeted at filling technical roles within the research projects of the Himalayan Forest Research Institute. Below are the specific vacancy details for the available posts:

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure that only the most qualified candidates are selected for these research-oriented roles, ICFRE-HFRI has set specific eligibility benchmarks regarding education, age, and practical experience.

Educational Qualification

• Candidates must possess a B.Sc. in Forestry or a B.Sc. Medical qualification from a recognized university/institution.
• Additionally, candidates must demonstrate Taxonomical Knowledge of medicinal plants. This is a critical requirement as the research often involves identifying and categorizing various medicinal herbs found in high-altitude regions.

Age Limit

• The maximum age limit for the Project Assistant post is 30 years.
• Age Relaxation: In accordance with Government of India norms, a relaxation of 5 years is provided for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC categories and for female candidates.

Experience & Skills

• Candidates must have practical experience in data collection and survey work.
• Specific familiarity with the geography and logistics of mountainous regions is highly preferred, as the project involves field visits in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Nationality

• Only candidates who are citizens of India are eligible to apply for this position.

Important Dates

Candidates must strictly adhere to the timeline provided by the organization to ensure their application is processed successfully.

Application Fee

The recruitment for the Project Assistant position at ICFRE-HFRI is currently free of cost. No application fee is required from any category.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Project Assistant position is designed to evaluate both the academic knowledge and the practical capabilities of the candidates. Since this is a research-oriented role, the interview serves as the primary screening tool.

• Step 1: Screening of Applications - The initial stage involves checking if the candidate meets the basic educational qualifications (B.Sc. Forestry/Medical) and age limits.
• Step 2: Technical Evaluation - During the interview, candidates will be questioned on their taxonomical knowledge regarding medicinal plants.
• Step 3: Field Experience Assessment - The panel will evaluate the candidate's experience in data collection and their ability to handle survey tasks in mountainous terrains.
• Step 4: Final Selection - Based on the performance in the interview, a final merit list will be prepared for the appointment of Project Assistants.

Salary / Pay Scale

The selected candidates will be entitled to a fixed monthly stipend/salary as per the project guidelines.

Note: The salary mentioned is a fixed amount for the duration of the project tenure as per the terms and conditions of the contract.

How to Apply Step by Step

The application process for this post is Offline. Candidates must follow these steps carefully to ensure their submission reaches the authorities on time.

1. Visit the official website of ICFRE-HFRI at hfri.icfre.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the "Recruitment" or "Career" section and download the official application form (Application Form No. 1-1(66)/HFRI/492).
3. Print out the downloaded application form on a clean A4 size paper.
4. Fill in all the required fields in the form accurately in block letters. Ensure that your contact details and educational qualifications are clearly mentioned.
5. Prepare a set of self-attested documents, including:
   • Your Educational Certificates (B.Sc. Degree/Marksheets).
   • Identity Proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID).
   • Recent Passport size photograph.
   • Signature on the application form.
6. Attach all self-attested documents behind the filled application form in a neat folder.
7. Prepare a cover letter mentioning the post you are applying for (Project Assistant).
8. Address the envelope clearly: "Application for the post of Project Assistant - $Your Name$".
9. Send the complete set of documents via Speed Post or Registered Post to the address mentioned in the official notification.
10. Ensure that your application reaches the office before the deadline, which is July 02, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the total number of vacancies for the Project Assistant post?
A1: There are a total of 02 vacancies for the position of Project Assistant at ICFRE-HFRI.

Q2: Is there an application fee for this recruitment?
A2: No, the application process is completely free for all categories of candidates.

Q3: What are the educational qualifications required?
A3: Candidates must have a B.Sc. in Forestry or a B.Sc. Medical qualification along with knowledge of the taxonomy of medicinal plants.

Q4: What is the age limit for this post?
A4: The maximum age limit is 30 years. However, candidates from SC/ST/OBC and women are eligible for a 5-year relaxation.

Q5: Is this an online or offline application process?
A5: This is an offline recruitment. Candidates must download the form, fill it, and send it via Speed Post/Registered Post.

Q6: What is the monthly salary for a Project Assistant?
A6: The selected candidate will receive a fixed salary of Rs. 22,000/- per month.

Q7: Where is the job located?
A7: The project involves work in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh regions.

Q8: Does the candidate need experience in mountains?
A8: Yes, experience in data collection and survey work specifically in mountainous regions is a key requirement for this role.

Q9: What is the last date to send the application?
A9: The final date to submit your application via post is July 02, 2026.

Q10: How will the candidates be selected?
A10: Selection will be based on an Interview process conducted by the selection committee.

Conclusion

The ICFRE-Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI) Project Assistant Recruitment 2026 offers a golden opportunity for graduates in Forestry and Medical sciences to join a prestigious government research body. While there are only two vacancies, the role provides immense exposure to high-altitude biodiversity, medicinal plant conservation, and large-scale environmental data collection. Candidates who are passionate about nature and willing to work in the challenging yet beautiful terrains of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh should not miss this chance.

Ensure that your application is complete, all documents are self-attested, and your postal dispatch is done well before the July 2nd deadline. For more details and to download the official form, visit the official website: hfri.icfre.gov.in. Prepare thoroughly for the interview by brushing up on your botanical knowledge and mountain survey techniques. Good luck to all the aspirants!