PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Climate Change, Forests, Environment, and Wildlife has issued comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure that the recruitment process across the province is transparent, fair, and strictly merit-based. This significant initiative has been undertaken in light of the directives of the Secretary, Department of Climate Change, and incorporates public feedback and suggestions gathered during the e-Khuli Kachehri held on March 30, 2026.
According to the official statement, a structured and clearly defined mechanism has been developed for filling vacant positions in the Forest Department, Wildlife Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Pakistan Forest Institute (PFI). The primary objective of this framework is to ensure the selection of competent and deserving candidates through a credible and transparent process.
Under the newly introduced procedures, obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Finance Department has been made mandatory prior to filling any vacant position. The schedule for written examinations will be finalized in consultation with the Educational Testing and Evaluation Agency (ETEA). Furthermore, in accordance with government rules and regulations, vacancies will be advertised in national newspapers to ensure maximum outreach and equal opportunity for all eligible candidates.
The statement further clarifies that written examinations will be conducted by ETEA, while physical tests for Forest Guard positions will be carried out in collaboration with the respective district police, in line with prevailing laws. Interviews will be conducted by a duly constituted and empowered selection committee, headed by the relevant appointing authority.
To uphold transparency at every stage of the recruitment process, particularly the final selection list, all relevant information will be prominently displayed on notice boards and the official websites of the concerned institutions. In addition, an effective grievance redressal mechanism will be established within each institution to ensure prompt resolution of complaints.
The department has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all recruitments are conducted strictly in accordance with the ESTACODE and other applicable rules, with concerned officials bound to adhere to these guidelines in letter and spirit.
This initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening transparency and meritocracy within public institutions, while also serving as a milestone in restoring public trust and advancing the broader agenda of institutional reform.
