View of the District Forest Office in Zunheboto. (Morung Photo)
Tokavi K Zhimo
Zunheboto | July 4
The Government of Nagaland has announced a total of 154 vacancies for the post of Forest Guard across the state. A massive 23,674 applicants have applied for these posts, reflecting the high demand for government employment.
In Zunheboto, the DFO Zunheboto Office has been issuing admit cards to applicants starting from July 1 until now and will end on July 5, and so far 270–280 applicants have collected their admit cards. In Zunheboto district, 457 candidates have applied, which averages to over 150 applicants per vacancy in Nagaland.
The physical tests for the selection process will be conducted between July 7 and 10, with Zunheboto district scheduled to conduct its test on July 9.
Male applicants will be required to run 24 kilometers within 4 hours, while female candidates must cover 15 kilometers within the same time frame.
The starting point for both male and female candidates will be at Kheshiho Stone Crusher, located below the Police Reserve in Zunheboto. All candidates are expected to reach the starting point before the flag-off, which will begin at 6:30 am.
Male candidates will run toward Zhekiye Village, reaching the fishery pond landmark, and return to the starting point to complete the 24 km distance. Female candidates will follow the same starting point but run toward Shoixe Village, covering 7.5 km one way before returning to complete their 15 km requirement.
To ensure fairness, four token checkpoints will be set up along the route. Every participant must collect tokens from each point to validate their completion. Missing even one token will lead to automatic disqualification.
Security, traffic control and emergency services have all been arranged for the day. Police personnel, district administrators and medical teams will be stationed along the route. Ambulances will be available throughout the event to handle any medical emergencies.
To manage traffic and parking, the New SP Office at Police Reserve has been designated as the official parking area for candidates and visitors.
A District-Level Coordination Committee has been formed to oversee the process and ensure transparency. The committee includes members from the district administration, police and the education department.
The results of the physical test will be declared on the same day to speed up the recruitment process. Candidates who pass the physical test will proceed to the written examination, scheduled for July 12 at 10:00 am. The written exam will be held at the Government Higher Secondary School in Zunheboto. The question papers will be stored securely and the answer sheets will be sealed and sent to Kohima.
Transparency is Paramount: Zunheboto DFO
Speaking to the media on the recruitment process, Obed Bohovi Swu, SFS, DFO Zunheboto, said, “Transparency is paramount. We have set up token checkpoints, police coverage and medical support. We are committed to a fair process and want Zunheboto to be a model for other districts.” The official added, “If we are not fair, we are doing injustice to deserving candidates.”
He also highlighted the concerning trend of overqualified candidates applying for basic posts. “Many applicants are graduates and postgraduates, applying for a post that only requires a 10+2 qualification. It clearly shows the lack of employment opportunities beyond government jobs.”
He encouraged youth to explore avenues beyond government service. “It’s time we think outside the box. If you’re qualified, start your own business or pursue other paths. Being self-employed gives you freedom that no government job can.”
‘Equal Opportunity, Not Favoritism’
Regarding the district’s eligibility to hold a test center, he clarified that although Zunheboto had slightly fewer than the expected 500 minimum applicants, logistical challenges justified the creation of a center.
“Many applicants are from rural areas and cannot afford to travel to distant districts. Having a local center makes the process more accessible, fair, and cost-effective.”
He added that Zunheboto was initially assigned to Mokokchung for physical test and written examination but was later approved to host its own tests due to practical concerns like distance, lack of accommodation, and financial constraints.
“We must ensure our youth have the best chance to compete without unnecessary hardship,” he said. “This is not about favoritism; it is about equal opportunity.”
He concluded by urging the community, including parents, to shift their mindset. “Let us teach our children to earn their success. Don’t spoon-feed them. Let them test themselves and grow stronger through competition. That is how we build capable future leaders.”
