SC Holds Andhra Pradesh Forest Range Officers (FRO) Eligible For Promotion To Indian Forest Service (IFoS)

The Supreme Court held that Forest Range Officers (FROs) of Andhra Pradesh qualify as members of the “State Forest Service,” making them eligible for promotion to the Indian Forest Service (IFoS).

The Court ruled that once the service is approved by the Centre, FROs substantively appointed under Class A of the Andhra Pradesh Forest Service fall within Rule 2(g) of the Recruitment Rules.

The court directed the Centre and State to consider eligible FROs in future IFoS recruitment.

However, the appellant received no personal relief due to seniority concerns and a delay in approaching authorities.

[P. Maruthi Prasada Rao v State of Andhra Pradesh]