CTAN flags discrepancies in Forest Guard exam, seeks probe

The Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN) on Monday highlighted a series of concerns and developments related to recruitment and promotional issues in the Forest department.
Addressing media persons at Kohima Press Club, CTAN convenor Meshenlo said the association had first submitted a representation to the department on January 29, 2026, demanding re-conduct of the Forest Guard re-examination, supported by 11 documents citing alleged discrepancies.
He said CTAN again wrote to the department on February 9 seeking a joint meeting, which was held on February 11 at the office of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF). During the meeting, issues including Forester-I appointments made in 2022 were discussed, with CTAN alleging five backdoor appointments and demanding their termination. Meshenlo said concerns were also raised over the Forest Guard examination process, including non-issuance of OMR sheets and use of markers.
While the department provided clarifications, only certain points saw mutual agreement.
He said CTAN had proposed either re-conducting the examination; or promoting eligible senior Forest Guards and allowing those who passed the physical test to sit for the written examination against remaining vacancies; or alternatively, advertising the remaining posts afresh.
According to Meshenlo, on March 7, the department accepted part of the proposal and processed promotion of 43 Forest Guards from Pay Matrix Level 5 to Level 6.
He further informed that on March 18, the Forestry Graduate Association of Nagaland (FGAN) sought a response within 30 days on existing and upcoming vacancies. At present, two Assistant Conservator of Forests posts, nine Ranger posts and 44 Forester-I posts are vacant, while six Rangers and 128 Foresters are due to retire within 12 months. CTAN has urged that requisition papers be sent to the Nagaland Public Service Commission within 30 days.
On the Forest Guard results declared on April 15, Meshenlo said he had requested the Chief Conservator of Forests on April 14 not to declare the results, but they were already forwarded to media houses. He also pointed to discrepancies such as inconsistent use of correction pens across centres.
Following the results, CTAN representatives met PCCF Temjen Yapang and the CCF on April 15, where three points were agreed upon. These included seeking permission from NPSC and NSSB to advertise Forester-I posts as a one-time dispensation, keeping posts in abeyance if rejected, and advertising 83 Forest Guard posts within six months.
Meshenlo said seven personnel had been suspended and a fact-finding committee constituted. CTAN co-convenor Kaqheto Kughutu said the association would continue to pursue transparency and may take legal action if aspirants remain dissatisfied.