Indian Forest Service was created in 1966 under the All India Services Act 1951. The main mandate of the service is the implementation of the National Forest Policy to ensure environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance which are very important for nourishment of all life forms, human, animal and plant.

IFS officers while in field postings in respective state cadres work for conservation, protection and development of forests and wildlife along with an aim to enhance livelihood opportunities of forest dependent communities of rural and tribal areas.

Ministry of Environment and Forests (India), under the Government of India, is the cadre controlling authority of Indian Forest Service.

As per Rule 6 of the Indian Forest Service (Cadre) Rules, 1966 deputation of IFS officers broadly falls into two categories:

1. Central Deputation
2. State Deputation

For Central Deputation, there are two schemes devised for the purpose of regulating appointments in Government of India and organisations under its control.
• Central Staffing Scheme
• Non-Central Staffing Scheme

Ranks

Grade Union Ministry Designation

Apex Scale Director General of Forests

HAG+ Scale Additional Director General of Forests

Higher Administrative Grade Inspector General of Forests

PB-4 Additional Inspector General of Forests

PB-4 Deputy Inspector General of Forests

PB-4 Director

PB-3 Assistant Inspector General of Forests


Grade State Government Designation

Apex Scale Principal Chief Conservator of Forests

Higher Administrative Grade Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests

PB-4 Chief Conservator of Forests

Regional Chief Conservator of Forests
PB-4 Conservator of Forests

PB-3 Deputy Conservator of Forests
Divisional Forest Officer

PB-3 Probationary Officer