The physical eligibility criteria for the UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) examination are important as they ensure candidates are physically capable of handling the demanding duties associated with the service. Here are the key physical eligibility requirements:
1. Physical Standards:
Candidates must meet certain physical standards. These standards are specified in detail by the UPSC and are checked during the medical examination. Key parameters include:
Height:
- Male candidates: Minimum height of 163 cm.
- Female candidates: Minimum height of 150 cm.
- There is a relaxation of 5 cm for candidates belonging to certain tribes and categories.
Chest Girth:
- Male candidates: Minimum of 84 cm (expansion of 5 cm).
- Female candidates: Minimum of 79 cm (expansion of 5 cm).
Eye Sight:
- Distant vision:
- Better eye: 6/6 or 6/9.
- Worse eye: 6/12 or 6/9.
- Near vision:
- Better eye: J1.
- Worse eye: J2.
- The candidates must not have color blindness, squint or any morbid condition of the eyes or eyelids like Trachoma.
2. General Physical Conditions:
Candidates should not have any physical disability or medical condition that may interfere with the performance of their duties. This includes:
- Good health, free from any physical defects or deformity.
- Hearing should be normal, i.e., candidates should be able to hear a whisper at a distance of 610 cm in a quiet room.
- Presence of any chronic disease, mental instability, or any other significant ailment could lead to disqualification.
3. Physical Fitness:
Candidates are required to undergo a physical fitness test. This generally includes a walking test:
- Male candidates: 25 km walk to be completed in 4 hours.
- Female candidates: 14 km walk to be completed in 4 hours.
Additional Notes:
- The medical examination is usually conducted after the interview/personality test stage of the IFS examination.
- It is advisable for candidates to maintain a good level of physical fitness and health throughout the preparation period to meet these standards.
- Candidates are recommended to consult the latest notification from UPSC for any updates or changes in the physical eligibility criteria.
Meeting these physical standards is crucial as the IFS officers often work in challenging environmental conditions and are required to perform physically demanding tasks in the forest and wildlife conservation areas.
