MPESB Launches Major Recruitment Drive for Forest and Jail Departments
The Madhya Pradesh Employees Selection Board (MPESB) in Bhopal has officially announced a significant recruitment initiative for multiple positions within the state government. This comprehensive recruitment drive targets vacancies across both the Forest Department and the Jail Department, marking a substantial employment opportunity for eligible candidates across Madhya Pradesh.
Key Recruitment Details and Application Timeline
According to the official notification released on February 27, 2026, the online application portal will open for candidates on February 28, 2026. The application window will remain active until March 14, 2026, with a correction period extending until March 19, 2026. The computer-based examination is scheduled to commence from April 07, 2026, with the selection process designed to identify qualified individuals for these crucial government positions.
Prospective applicants must submit their applications exclusively through the official MPESB portals at esb.mp.gov.in or esb.mponline.gov.in. The application fee structure has been established with different rates for various categories:
- General, OBC, and EWS categories: Rs 500
- SC, ST, and female candidates: Rs 250
- PH and PWD candidates: Rs 250
All fee payments must be completed through online modes only, ensuring a streamlined and transparent application process.
Post-Wise Vacancy Distribution and Educational Requirements
The recruitment notification reveals an impressive total of 1,679 vacancies across four distinct positions. The breakdown of available positions includes:
- Forest Guard (Van Rakshak): 728 vacancies
- Field Guard (Kshetra Rakshak): 169 vacancies
- Jail Prahari (Warder): 757 vacancies
- Assistant Jail Superintendent: 25 vacancies
Educational qualifications vary by position. For the Forest Guard, Field Guard, and Jail Prahari roles, candidates must have successfully completed Class 10 education. In contrast, the Assistant Jail Superintendent position requires candidates to hold a graduate degree from a recognized university.
Age Criteria and Selection Process Framework
The age requirements for these positions have been clearly defined in the notification. For Forest Guard, Field Guard, and Jail Prahari posts, candidates must be between 18 and 33 years of age. The Assistant Jail Superintendent position has a slightly higher minimum age requirement of 21 years, with the same maximum age limit of 33 years.
Age calculation will be based on January 01, 2026, with appropriate relaxation in the upper age limit provided according to applicable government rules and regulations. The selection methodology comprises multiple stages designed to thoroughly assess candidate suitability:
- Written examination in computer-based format
- Skill test for qualified candidates
- Document verification process
- Comprehensive medical examination
This multi-stage selection process ensures that only the most qualified and physically fit candidates progress to final appointment within the Madhya Pradesh government departments.
Significance of This Recruitment Initiative
This recruitment drive represents one of the most substantial employment opportunities announced by the Madhya Pradesh government in recent years. With positions spanning two critical departments—Forest and Jail—the initiative addresses staffing needs across multiple sectors of state administration. The transparent application process, clearly defined eligibility criteria, and structured selection methodology demonstrate MPESB's commitment to fair and efficient recruitment practices.
Candidates interested in these positions are advised to carefully review the official notification, ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, and prepare their application materials well in advance of the March 14 deadline. The computer-based examination format represents a modern approach to recruitment testing, requiring candidates to be comfortable with digital assessment platforms.
