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Panel Concerned Over High Disability Pension Rate Among Armed Forces

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A key parliamentary panel has raised concerns over the “large” number of armed forces officers retiring with disability pensions, urging the Ministry of Defence to delve into the root causes and implement remedial measures.

The Public Accounts Committee tabled a report on Disability Pension in the Indian Army on February 8, highlighting that 40% of officers retiring with disability pensions, with one-fifth attributed to lifestyle diseases like hypertension and diabetes mellitus, is alarming given the mandatory physical fitness requirements in the armed forces.

Expressing dismay over the prevalence of lifestyle diseases among armed forces personnel, the committee stressed the need for the Army Medical Corps to address these health issues and minimize their occurrence.

Data presented to the committee indicated that disability rates among officers retiring from service ranged between 36% to 40%, whereas for personnel below officer rank (PBOR), it ranged from 15% to 18%.

veteran

Further analysis revealed that a significant percentage of disability pensions, 21.69% for officers and 13% for PBOR, were granted due to lifestyle diseases.

The committee also noted variations in the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes across different branches of the armed forces compared to national averages, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Responding to queries regarding the higher number of officers compared to PBOR, the ministry explained that officers tend to retire at an older age, leading to a higher incidence of lifestyle-related disorders in their later years. The average retirement age for officers is 54 years, significantly higher than the 35 years for PBOR.

Addressing concerns about the new Entitlement Rules 2023, which aim to streamline the process of disability compensation, the committee emphasized their role in ensuring fair compensation for genuine disability cases while maintaining the integrity of the system.

Despite debates within the service community, the committee underscored the importance of these rules in promoting physical and medical fitness among armed forces personnel.

As the armed forces continue to grapple with the challenges posed by disabilities among retiring officers, the parliamentary panel’s recommendations underscore the importance of proactive measures to safeguard the health and well-being of India’s military personnel.

COAS General Manoj Pande honours Republic Day Parade Contingents

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In a solemn ceremony held at the Cariappa Parade Ground, New Delhi, General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff, felicitated the Republic Day Parade Marching Contingents and Military & Pipe bands.

The event, graced by the presence of Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, Vice Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, GOC Delhi Area, and other senior officers of the Indian Army, showcased the exemplary achievements of the participating units.

A total of eight marching contingents and 22 Military & Pipe bands from the Army had participated in the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path. Gen Manoj Pande, in his capacity as the Chief of the Army Staff, presented awards to the winning contingent.

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The prestigious title of the Best Marching Contingent was conferred upon the Madras Regiment, while the Bombay Engineering Group & Centre secured the position of Runners Up Marching Contingent.

In the Military Band category, the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre and the Army Air Defence Centre clinched the titles of Winners and Runners Up, respectively. Similarly, the 14 Gorkha Training Centre and Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre emerged victorious as Winners and Runners Up in the Best Pipe Band category.

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Additionally, General Manoj Pande presented a cash prize to the Sikh Regiment Contingent for being adjudged as the Best Marching Contingent by the Ministry of Defence.

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The Rajputana Rifles Regiment Contingent was also recognized and awarded as the Popular Choice Contingent.

During his interaction with the Contingents, Gen Manoj Pande commended the participants for their remarkable display of high standards of drill, turnout, and discipline during the Republic Day Parade.

He expressed his appreciation for their dedication and professionalism, which reflected the ethos of the Indian Army.

The felicitation ceremony not only honoured the exemplary achievements of the participating units but also served as a testament to the unwavering commitment and spirit of excellence upheld by the Indian Army. It underscored the importance of fostering a culture of excellence and discipline, which are the hallmark of the nation’s armed forces.

Indian Navy Boosts Anti-Piracy Efforts with Accelerated Momentum

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India’s commitment to safeguarding its crucial trade and petroleum routes in the northern Arabian Sea and western Indian Ocean received a notable boost on February 2nd as the Indian Navy successfully thwarted yet another assault on a foreign fishing vessel off the coast of Somalia by pirates from the war-torn African country.

On that day, the Iranian vessel FV Omaril faced a grave threat from Somalian pirates, only to be swiftly rescued by Indian Navy aircraft in the early hours. Responding to the distress call, INS Sharda, specializing in anti-piracy operations, quickly altered its course to intercept the threatened vessel.

Within a short span, the pirates were compelled to release the FV Omaril and its crew, comprised of 11 Iranians and eight Pakistanis, unharmed.

Pirates

This recent operation underscores the Indian Navy’s continued vigilance and proactive stance against piracy in the region. Just days earlier, on January 30, 2024, the Navy conducted two successful anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea off Somalia.

These operations resulted in the rescue of two hijacked fishing vessels and their crews, totalling 36 members. The Indian ship Sumitra, deployed for anti-piracy and maritime security operations, played a pivotal role in these rescues, highlighting the Navy’s unwavering commitment to maritime security.

The strategic importance of these anti-piracy efforts cannot be overstated, especially around critical areas like the Gulf of Aden and the Horn of Africa, where piracy activities are most prevalent. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt recently informed Parliament of the Navy’s proactive engagements with regional and extra-regional navies to restore maritime security in these vital zones.

Commodore Anil Jai Singh, a veteran in submarine operations and Vice President of the Indian Maritime Foundation, emphasized the significance of protecting India’s trade interests.

With a vast percentage of Indian trade passing through the northern Arabian Sea and western Indian Ocean, safeguarding these sea lanes is imperative to prevent economic losses and maintain maritime stability.

Anti Piracy

India’s role as a resident naval power in the Indian Ocean is paramount. With extensive coastline, navigable waterways, and active ports, India’s dependence on the Indian Ocean for commerce, energy imports, tourism, and fishing cannot be overstated. Hence, the Indian Navy considers the entire Indian Ocean as its area of influence.

However, maintaining maritime security extends beyond anti-piracy operations. India’s partnerships with littoral and island nations across the region are crucial for regional stability.

Initiatives like the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) underscore India’s commitment to collaborative security measures with its maritime neighbours.

As geopolitical tensions simmer and maritime challenges persist, the Indian Navy’s proactive stance and robust capabilities stand as a bulwark against threats to India’s maritime interests.

With a busy agenda ahead in 2024, the Indian Navy remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard vital trade routes and maintain maritime security in the region.

Adani Defence’s Drishti 10 UAV Soars in Debut Flight for Indian Navy

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The Indian Navy’s fleet received a significant enhancement in its surveillance capabilities as the indigenous remotely-piloted aircraft, Drishti-10, successfully completed its maiden flight following its recent induction.

Flagging off the Adani Defence-made Drishti 10 Starliner medium altitude long endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) on January 10, Indian Navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar marked a milestone in the country’s defence capabilities. The ceremony, held in Hyderabad, celebrated the integration of this advanced UAV into the naval arsenal.

Drawing inspiration from Israeli technology, Drishti 10 is based on the proven Elbit Systems’ Hermes 900 MALE UAVs, a testament to India’s efforts in leveraging global expertise to bolster its indigenous defence industry.

Assembled at Adani Defence’s Hyderabad facility, the drone symbolizes the synergy between international collaboration and domestic manufacturing prowess.

Adanui Aerospace Park

Established in 2018, Adani Defence’s Hyderabad facility is dedicated to the production of MALE UAVs under an agreement with Elbit Systems.

The facility, equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, aims to cater primarily to the export market, with approximately 20 drones already exported to various international customers.

With an impressive operational capability, Drishti UAVs are capable of conducting continuous surveillance for up to 36 hours and can carry a payload of 450 kilograms. This capability significantly enhances the long-range search and reconnaissance capabilities of both the Indian Army and Navy, providing crucial intelligence gathering capabilities.

Recognizing the importance of these advanced UAVs, the Indian Army has placed orders for two Drishti-10 drones from Adani Defence under emergency provisions.

Hermes 900 MALE UAV for IN

These drones are slated for deployment in strategic sectors, including Punjab and the desert regions, to bolster border surveillance and security.

Similarly, the Indian Navy plans to deploy Drishti-10 drones in Porbandar to monitor the maritime boundary with Pakistan, enhancing maritime domain awareness and bolstering coastal security measures.

The successful induction and maiden flight of Drishti-10 mark a significant milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. With cutting-edge technology and indigenous production capabilities, the Indian armed forces are poised to strengthen their operational readiness and defence preparedness in the face of evolving security challenges.

Five Individuals Honoured with Bharat Ratna in 2024, Record for a Single Year

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Five Eminent Personalities Conferred Bharat Ratna in 2024, Including PV Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh, and MS Swaminathan

In a significant announcement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed on Friday that five distinguished individuals, including former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, alongside agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, would be honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

This year’s recipients surpass the record set in 1999, with five Bharat Ratnas being awarded in a single year.

Praising the contributions of Rao, Singh, and Swaminathan, Prime Minister Modi lauded their invaluable service to the nation. Rao was acknowledged for his transformative liberalization policies that revolutionized the Indian economy, while Singh was commended for his unwavering advocacy for farmers’ rights.

Swaminathan received recognition for his globally acclaimed contributions to agriculture, which have significantly impacted food security and welfare.

Among the recipients, four will be honoured posthumously, while Lal Krishna Advani, aged 96, is the sole living recipient of the prestigious award.

Here is the list of Bharat Ratna awardees for 2024:

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Karpoori Thakur (Posthumous): A prominent socialist leader and former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpoori Thakur, affectionately known as ‘Jan Nayak’ (people’s leader), will be posthumously honoured with the Bharat Ratna. Thakur’s legacy as a champion of social justice and advocate for the marginalized has earned him widespread acclaim.

LK Advani

Lal Krishna Advani: A stalwart in Indian politics and a former Deputy Prime Minister, Lal Krishna Advani has made significant contributions to the nation’s development and governance. As a key figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Advani’s leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on India’s political landscape.

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Pamulaparthi Venkata Narasimha Rao (Posthumous): Recognized for his multifaceted service to the nation, PV Narasimha Rao, a distinguished scholar and statesman, served as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996. His leadership during a critical period of economic reforms has been instrumental in shaping India’s trajectory towards growth and prosperity.

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Chaudhary Charan Singh (Posthumous): A prominent Jat leader and former Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh played a pivotal role in championing the cause of farmers and spearheading anti-Congress politics. His enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of leaders committed to serving the nation.

MS Swaminathan

Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan (Posthumous): Revered as the father of the Green Revolution in India, MS Swaminathan’s pioneering work in agriculture has had a transformative impact on food security and rural livelihoods. His visionary guidance continues to shape agricultural policies and practices, ensuring sustainable development and prosperity for future generations.

The announcement of the Bharat Ratna recipients for 2024 reflects the nation’s appreciation for their exemplary contributions across various fields, underscoring their enduring legacy and invaluable service to the country.

Akash NG Demonstrates Rapid Target Engagement Capability

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Last month, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight test of the New Generation Akash (Akash-NG) missile from the integrated test range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha.

During the test, conducted against a high-speed, unmanned aerial target at a very low altitude, the Akash-NG missile system demonstrated its capability by intercepting and destroying the target, as confirmed by DRDO.

The test validated the functionality of the complete weapon system, including the missile with an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker, launcher, multi-function radar, and command, control, and communication systems.

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The system’s performance was further corroborated through data captured by various radars, telemetry, and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by ITR, Chandipur.

The Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) is a key achievement of DRDO’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). The Indian Air Force has already procured five units of the Akash to safeguard its airfields in the North East from potential threats posed by enemy fighter aircraft. Additionally, the Indian Army has acquired two units of the Akash and has placed orders for two more.

The Akash-NG represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, with its weight reduced by half to 350 kilograms from the original Akash’s 700 kilograms. Furthermore, it boasts an increased altitude ceiling of 25 kilometers and a range of 30 kilometers, compared to the Akash’s altitude ceiling of 20 kilometers and range of 25 kilometers.

These enhancements are attributed to the incorporation of a new two-pulse solid rocket motor and a DRDO-developed seeker, which enables target locking during the terminal phase, ensuring precise guidance to the impact point.

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DRDO’s post-test statement hailed the Akash-NG as a state-of-the-art missile system capable of intercepting high-speed, agile aerial threats, paving the way for user trials. The Akash-NG’s rapid target engagement capability is underscored by its ability to detect, track, and neutralize enemy aircraft within seconds.

The surveillance radar identifies enemy fighters up to 80 kilometers away, initiating the launch sequence. By the time the enemy aircraft is 50 kilometers away, the missile is launched, reaching the impact point 30 kilometers away within a minute.

Manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited for the Indian Air Force and integrated by Bharat Dynamics Limited for the army, the Akash missile system boasts indigenization levels exceeding 96 percent, as per the Ministry of Defence.

With its demonstrated prowess, the Akash missile system has garnered interest from countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and various African nations, signaling its potential as a reliable defence solution against emerging threats.

Indian Army, Saudi Forces Conclude First Joint Exercise ‘Sada Tanseeq-2024’

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The Indian Army and Royal Saudi Land Forces successfully wrapped up their inaugural joint exercise, ‘Sada Tanseeq 2024,’ at the Mahajan field firing range on February 9.

This historic collaboration between the two nations in a military exercise aimed to strengthen cooperation and interoperability.

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Kicking off on January 29, the exercise concluded after intensive training sessions spanning from January 29 to February 9 in Mahajan, Rajasthan.

The validation phase of ‘Sada Tanseeq,’ the first joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Royal Saudi Land Force, was completed at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges on Thursday, as stated in an official announcement.

The 12-day exercise aimed at achieving interoperability between the two forces and familiarizing each other with operational procedures and combat drills under the UN mandate.

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The Indian contingent, comprising the 20th Battalion of The Brigade of Guards Regiment, and the Saudi Arabian contingent, consisting of a group of 45 soldiers, actively participated in the exercise conducted in two phases.

The first phase emphasized combat conditioning and tactical training, while the second phase culminated in physical exercises and validation.

During the validation phase, both contingents collaborated in various activities, including establishing a temporary operating base, setting up an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance grid, operating a mobile vehicle check post, and conducting cordon-and-search operations, heliborne operations, and house intervention drills.

Sada Tanseeq

The closing ceremony of the joint exercise is scheduled for Friday, as mentioned in the statement.

This milestone event not only strengthens bilateral ties between India and Saudi Arabia but also underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance cooperation and readiness in the military domain.

ISRO Scheduled to Launch INSAT-3DS Weather Satellite

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of its meteorological and disaster warning satellite, INSAT-3DS, scheduled for February 17 at 5:30 pm IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.

The satellite will be carried into orbit aboard GSLV F14, marking ISRO’s 16th mission with the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

The primary objective of this mission is to position the INSAT-3DS satellite into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Following successful orbit-raising manoeuvres, the satellite will be placed into a Geo-stationary Orbit, enabling it to fulfill its role in advanced meteorological observations and weather forecasting.

weather satellite

INSAT-3DS is equipped with state-of-the-art payloads, including a 6-channel Imager and 19-channel Sounder, designed to enhance meteorological observations and ensure the collection of high-quality data.

Additionally, the satellite features essential communication payloads such as the Data Relay Transponder (DRT), which receives data from automatic Data Collection Platforms and Automatic Weather Stations, thereby further improving weather forecasting capabilities.

One of the critical components of INSAT-3DS is the SAS&R transponder, which plays a pivotal role in relaying distress signals and alert detections from beacon transmitters, contributing significantly to global search and rescue services.

With its advanced payloads and communication features, INSAT-3DS is poised to monitor land and ocean surfaces effectively, providing valuable data for disaster warning systems and enhancing early-warning capabilities.

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Looking ahead, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, has ambitious plans for the future, with approximately 30 launches scheduled in the next two years, according to the ‘Integrated Launch Manifesto for 2023-24 (Q4) & 2024-25’ released by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe).

These launches are aimed at serving a variety of purposes, including India’s commercial space sector, user-funded missions, scientific endeavors, and technology tests.

Indian and French Navies Strengthen Ties Through 17th Staff Talks

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The 17th Staff Talks between the Indian Navy (IN) and the French Navy (FN) were held in New Delhi from February 6 to 7, 2024, highlighting the commitment of both nations to deepen cooperation in various naval domains.

Co-chaired by Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Foreign Cooperation and Intelligence, Indian Navy, and Rear Admiral Jean-Marc Durandau, Director of International Engagements, French Navy, the discussions explored ongoing naval activities and opportunities for collaboration in operational, training, and Subject Matter Expert exchanges.

In a statement shared by the Indian Navy on social media platform X, it was emphasized that the talks fostered fruitful discussions, with both sides acknowledging the growing cooperation between the two navies.

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The officials expressed a mutual desire to enhance collaboration and interoperability in the maritime domain, reflecting the shared commitment to maritime security and stability in the region.

The sidelines of the staff talks provided an opportunity for Rear Admiral Jean-Marc Durandau to meet with Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Indian Navy, on February 7.

During the meeting, both officials reaffirmed the high level of synergy and interoperability between the Indian and French Navies, underscoring the importance of continued cooperation.

Additionally, Rear Admiral Durandau visited the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) on February 6.

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The IFC-IOR, established by the Government of India in 2018 and hosted by the Indian Navy, serves as a platform for promoting collaboration among maritime stakeholders to enhance maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region.

The 17th Staff Talks between the Indian Navy and the French Navy underscored the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral ties and promote regional maritime security, reflecting the shared values and strategic interests of India and France in the maritime domain.

Top 10 Differences Between NSG and Para SF

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We know that both these forces have proven their combat capabilities time and again. In the case of most aspirants, the slight chance of ending up in one of these elite units is a major reason why they chose this path. Both these forces operate in a very secretive manner, hence speculations are often all we get about them. For aspirants, we present the difference between PARA-SF and NSG.

PARA-SF

The Indian Army’s Para (Special Forces), often known as Para SF, is a special forces unit that is part of the Parachute Regiment. Hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, foreign internal defense, counter-proliferation, counter-insurgency, search and destroy, and human recovery are among the unit’s specialties.

Table of Contents

The 50th Parachute Brigade was formed in October 1941 during World War II, and the unit’s history dates back to that time. The 9th Parachute Special Forces Battalion, part of the Parachute Regiment, was created in 1966 as the 9th Parachute Commando Battalion. It is the oldest of the Indian Army’s nine para SF battalions. It has participated in several successful operations throughout its history, including the 1971 Indo-Pakistan conflict, Operation Bluestar, Operation Pawan, Operation Cactus, the Kargil War, the 2015 Indian counter-insurgency operation in Myanmar, the 2016 Indian Line of Control strike, and countless anti-terror operations.

Structure and Organisation

Nine Special Forces, five Airborne, two Territorial Army, and one Counter-Insurgency (Rashtriya Rifles) battalions make up the Parachute Regiment. The regiment attempted to raise additional battalions to supplement the special forces’ strength, but the mission was not accomplished owing to the difficult selection process. Furthermore, in the absence of a centralized command and a unified and regulated method for selection, selection procedures vary even across Para (SF) battalions. To put it another way, various Para (SF) battalions have varying entry requirements.

There were intentions in the mid-1980s to combine the three para commando battalions of the Parachute Regiment into a single specialized organization, the Special Forces Regiment. However, because of logistical and administrative challenges, these plans were shelved, and the Parachute Regiment continues to train and recruit them.

The 9 battalions are:

  1. 1 PARA (SF) – for urban warfare and CI/CT
  2. 2 PARA (SF) – for mountain warfare and CI/CT
  3. 3 PARA (SF) – for desert warfare and CI/CT
  4. 4 PARA (SF) – for mountain warfare and CI/CT
  5. 9 PARA (SF) – for mountain warfare, urban warfare and CI/CT
  6. 10 PARA (SF) – for desert warfare and CI/CT
  7. 11 PARA (SF) – for jungle warfare and CI/CT
  8. 12 PARA (SF) – for jungle & mountain warfare and CI/CT
  9. 21 PARA (SF) – for jungle & mountain warfare and CI/CT

Functions

  • Special reconnaissance, gathering intelligence
  • Deep penetration and precision strikes behind enemy lines to sabotage crucial enemy facilities and communications.
  • The Indian Army’s counter-terrorist and counter-insurgency operations include both covert and overt/direct action special operations.
  • Hostage rescue operations are carried out both within and outside of Indian territory.
  • Special operations, direct action, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism, special reconnaissance, foreign internal defense, counter-proliferation, counter-insurgency, search and destroy, and people recovery are among the duties assigned to the force.
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Selection & Training

Volunteers make up the whole Indian paratrooper force. Some new recruits join the Para regiments, while others move from regular army formations. They go through a three-month probationary period / selection process for Paratroopers (Airborne) Battalions (5,6,7,23,29) and six-month probationary period / selection process for Para (Special Forces) Battalions (1,2,3,4,9,10,11,12,21 PARA). To be a para (Special Forces), all personnel must first qualify as Paratroopers; once selected, candidates may choose to advance to the SF

The first training to become a special forces operator takes 3.5 years, which is the longest in the world, but the training is ongoing. Members of the special forces get both basic and advanced training. They learn specialized infiltration and exfiltration techniques, either by air (fight freefall) or by water (combat diving).

NSG

The National Security Guard (NSG) is the Ministry of Home Affairs’ special counter-terrorism organization (MHA). Following Operation Blue Star, the Golden Temple attack, and the death of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it was established on October 16, 1984, under the National Security Guard Act of 1986, “to fight terrorist operations and defend states against internal disturbances.” The Black Cats are a nickname for members of the National Security Guard.

Structure and Organisation

Special Action Unit (SAG)

SAGs 51 and 52 are the two types of Special Action Groups. The counter terrorist force (CTF), which is NSG’s counter-terrorist arm, is made up of both of them, as well as 11 SRG. Counter-terrorist and counter-insurgency operations are handled by 51 SAG and 11 SRG, while anti-hijacking operations are handled by 52 SAG. SRG members are mostly selected from CAPFs, whilst SAG members are mostly drawn from the Indian Army.

Special Ranger Group (SRG)

Special Ranger Groups (SRG) 11, 12, and 13 are the three SRGs. Along with 51 SAG, 11 SRG is part of the counter-terrorist force (CTF) and is solely employed for counter-terrorist activities. Close protection and special security services are provided by the 12 and 13 SRG for India’s high-profile targets, such as the defence minister. Border guarding troops like the BSF, ITBP, and SSB, as well as Internal Security Forces like the CRPF, CISF, and Assam Rifles, make up the SRG. In recent years, the Government of India has opted to withdraw SRGs from protection responsibilities and refocus them only on NSG mandates such as SAG and 11 SRG.

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Special Composite Group (SCG)

The Special Composite Group (SCG) of the National Security Group (NSG) has established five regional centers for regional deployment. SCG is made of of Army and CAPF troops who are responsible for counter-terrorist activities in their area of duty. As Group Commander, each SCG is led by a colonel-rank officer on deputation from the Indian Army. The five regional hubs are as follows:

  • 26 SCG Mumbai
  • 27 SCG Chennai
  • 28 SCG Hyderabad
  • 29 SCG Kolkata
  • 30 SCG Gandhinagar

Functions

  • Counter hijacking tasks on land, sea, and air
  •  Bomb disposal (search, detection and neutralization of IEDs)
  •  Post Blast Investigation (PBI)
  •  Hostage Rescue missions like in Taj Hotel during 26/11 Mumbai attack
  •  VIP security (like security to Cabinet Ministers and others eminent persons)

Selection & Training

Selection is difficult, with a dropout rate of 70–80 percent. The basics take up three months of their 14-month training in Manesar, Haryana. A cross-country obstacle course, jumping from heights and over divides, and ascending various types of terrain are among the 26 aspects of physical fitness training. At the end of an obstacle-filled cross-country marathon, one endurance test combines martial arts and target shooting. This is used to assess the candidate’s ability to perform under duress and tiredness. Those who pass the examinations will be assigned to advanced training for nine months.Aspirants must also pass a psychological examination before being accepted into the NSG. Urban counter-terrorism, underwater operations, home intervention, counter-UAV and anti-drone operations, bomb detection and disposal abilities, and several other specialisations are all included in the training.

Conclusion

Regardless of the challenges they face, both these forces are well trained and well equipped to overcome them. Although they are trained to serve different functions, one common factor between them would be their rigorous training and commitment to excellence. Aspirants should be inspired by this and aim to inculcate that relentless pursuit for the objectives set for themselves. SSBCrack provides ample resources to support aspirants in their journey.

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