Kohima, April 21: The Combined Technical Association of Nagaland (CTAN) announced that the state’s Forest Department has assured it will advertise 83 vacant Forest Guard posts within six months, following discussions over recruitment grievances and pending vacancies.

CTAN convener Meshenlo Kath said the commitment came after a series of meetings with senior officials, including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF). The association had raised concerns earlier this year about alleged irregularities in the recruitment process, citing backdoor appointments, examination discrepancies, and promotion-related delays.

Kath explained that after deliberations on April 15, the department agreed to formally advertise the vacancies starting from that date. He added that CTAN had submitted an 11-point representation demanding corrective measures to ensure fairness and transparency in recruitment.

In addition to the Forest Guard posts, discussions also covered 43 promotional vacancies for senior Forest Guard positions. CTAN urged the department to address promotions alongside fresh recruitment to resolve long-pending issues.

On Forester-I posts, Kath noted that the department would seek a one-time dispensation from the Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) and Nagaland Staff Selection Board (NSSB) to allow recruitment pending amendments to service rules. If the proposal is rejected, the posts will remain in abeyance until the rules are revised.

Responding to concerns over the recent Forest Guard examination, the department acknowledged irregularities and suspended seven personnel linked to result-related discrepancies. CTAN welcomed the action and reiterated its demand for stricter safeguards in future recruitment exercises.

Expressing cautious optimism, CTAN said it was satisfied with the assurances given and hoped the measures would ensure a fair and transparent process going forward.