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| image = Balidaan badge vector.svg | | image = Balidaan badge vector.svg | ||
| image_size = 125 | | image_size = 125 | ||
| caption = ''Balidan Badge'' of the Para SF | | caption = ''Balidan Badge'' of the Para (SF) | ||
| dates = 1 July 1966–present<br />({{Age in years and months|1966|7|1}}) | | dates = 1 July 1966–present<br />({{Age in years and months|1966|7|1}}) | ||
| country = {{flag|India}} | | country = {{flag|India}} | ||
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}} | }} | ||
'''Para (Special Forces)''',<ref name="KatochHistory">{{Cite book|title=India's Special Forces: History and Future of Special Forces|last=Lt. Gen. Katoch, Datta|publisher=Vij Books India Pvt Ltd|year=2013|pages=82, 83}}</ref> also known as '''Para SF''', | '''Para (Special Forces)''',<ref name="KatochHistory">{{Cite book|title=India's Special Forces: History and Future of Special Forces|last=Lt. Gen. Katoch, Datta|publisher=Vij Books India Pvt Ltd|year=2013|pages=82, 83}}</ref> also known as '''Para (SF)''', is a group of [[special forces]] battalions of the [[Parachute Regiment (India)|Parachute Regiment]] in the [[Indian Army]]. These units specialize in various roles including [[counter-terrorism]], [[Hostage|hostage rescue]], [[unconventional warfare]], [[special reconnaissance]], [[counter-insurgency]] and [[Direct action (military)| direct action]].<ref name="IANS">{{Cite news|last=IANS|date=2015-06-10|title=Who are para commandos?|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/who-are-para-commandos-115061000990_1.html|access-date=2021-01-20}}</ref> | ||
The unit's heritage stems from [[World War II]], with the creation of the [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50th Parachute Brigade]] in October 1941 under the [[British Indian Army]]. 9 Para SF was raised in 1966 as '''9th Parachute Commando Battalion''' as part of the Parachute Regiment and is the oldest among the fifteen Para SF units of the Indian Army. | The unit's heritage stems from [[World War II]], with the creation of the [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50th Parachute Brigade]] in October 1941 under the [[British Indian Army]]. 9 Para (SF) was raised in 1966 as the '''9th Parachute Commando Battalion''' (as part of the Parachute Regiment) and is the oldest among the fifteen Para (SF) units of the Indian Army. It has been involved in various operations including the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971|Indo-Pakistan war of 1971]], [[Operation Blue Star|Operation Bluestar]], [[Operation Pawan]], [[1988 Maldives coup d'état attempt|Operation Cactus]], [[Kargil War]], [[Operation Ginger]], [[2015 Indian counter-insurgency operation in Myanmar]], [[2016 Pampore stand-off]], [[2016 Indian Line of Control strike]] and in several anti-terror operations.<ref name="IANS"/> | ||
==History== | ==History== | ||
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====Operation Mandhol==== | ====Operation Mandhol==== | ||
Operation Mandhol was a [[Raid (military)|raid]] carried out by soldiers from the 9 Para (SF) to seek and destroy Pakistani [[artillery]] located in hostile territory near a village called Mandole. During the operation, aided by an artillery officer Capt. D Tyagi from [[195 Medium Regiment (India)|195 Mountain Regiment]], six artillery guns were destroyed by a raiding team composed of six officers and around 120 soldiers led by Major C. M. Malhotra.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2FM3AgAAQBAJ&q=D+tyagi+mandhol&pg=PT33 |title=India's Special Forces: History and Future of Special Forces |isbn=9789382573975 |last=Datta |first=Saikat |year=2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indianpolitics.co.in/how-indian-parachute-commandos-destroyed-complete-pakistan-artillery-battery-at-mandhol-and-saved-poonch/|title=How Indian Parachute Commandos Destroyed Complete Pakistan Artillery Battery at Mandhol and Saved Poonch | Indian Politics}}</ref> The special forces raiders began their operation at 5.30 PM on 13 December 1971. They started off from [[Poonch district, India|Poonch]] and crossed the [[Poonch River]]. After they reached the Mandole village, they started searching for the artillery guns and eventually located them. The raiders divided themselves into six teams. Each one of the six team was tasked to destroy one of the six guns. Subsequently, an intense [[gunfight]] took place between the Indian raiders and [[Pakistan Army]] soldiers. The gunfight resulted in two Indian casualties and many Pakistani casualties, with some Pakistani soldiers escaping from the battle. Finally, the raiders destroyed all the artillery using explosives and returned to their base at 6.30 AM on 14 December 1971.<ref name="mandhol">{{cite news |title=Operation 'Mandhol' forced Pakistan to change war plan |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Operation-Mandhol-forced-Pakistan-to-change-war-plan/articleshow/27444282.cms |website=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=27 February 2020 |date=16 December 2013}}</ref> | Operation Mandhol was a [[Raid (military)|raid]] carried out by soldiers from the 9 Para (SF) to seek and destroy Pakistani [[artillery]] located in hostile territory near a village called Mandole. During the operation, aided by an artillery officer Capt. D Tyagi from [[195 Medium Regiment (India)|195 Mountain Regiment]], six artillery guns were destroyed by a raiding team composed of six officers and around 120 soldiers led by Major C. M. Malhotra.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2FM3AgAAQBAJ&q=D+tyagi+mandhol&pg=PT33 |title=India's Special Forces: History and Future of Special Forces |isbn=9789382573975 |last=Datta |first=Saikat |year=2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indianpolitics.co.in/how-indian-parachute-commandos-destroyed-complete-pakistan-artillery-battery-at-mandhol-and-saved-poonch/|title=How Indian Parachute Commandos Destroyed Complete Pakistan Artillery Battery at Mandhol and Saved Poonch | Indian Politics}}</ref> The special forces raiders began their operation at 5.30 PM on 13 December 1971. They started off from [[Poonch district, India|Poonch]] and crossed the [[Poonch River]]. After they reached the Mandole village, they started searching for the artillery guns and eventually located them. The raiders divided themselves into six teams. Each one of the six team was tasked to destroy one of the six guns. Subsequently, an intense [[gunfight]] took place between the Indian raiders and [[Pakistan Army]] soldiers. The gunfight resulted in two Indian casualties namely Paratrooper Rajmal and Paratrooper Balwan Singh who was a resident of Village Moungri of District Udhampur of J&K and many Pakistani casualties, with some Pakistani soldiers escaping from the battle. Finally, the raiders destroyed all the artillery using explosives and returned to their base at 6.30 AM on 14 December 1971.<ref name="mandhol">{{cite news |title=Operation 'Mandhol' forced Pakistan to change war plan |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Operation-Mandhol-forced-Pakistan-to-change-war-plan/articleshow/27444282.cms |website=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=27 February 2020 |date=16 December 2013}}</ref> | ||
This operation caused the Pakistan military to tweak its military doctrine by assigning additional soldiers for defending artillery guns. [[Pakistan Army]] officials, who came to India as a delegation after the war had ended, acknowledged the raid. Operation Mandhol is now a part of the syllabus at the [[Indian Military Academy]].<ref name="mandhol" /> | This operation caused the Pakistan military to tweak its military doctrine by assigning additional soldiers for defending artillery guns. [[Pakistan Army]] officials, who came to India as a delegation after the war had ended, acknowledged the raid. Operation Mandhol is now a part of the syllabus at the [[Indian Military Academy]].<ref name="mandhol" /> | ||
==== Chachro Raid ==== | ==== Chachro Raid ==== | ||
{{main|Chachro Raid}} | |||
[[File:10 Para (SF) team after capturing Chachro village in Pakistan.jpg|thumb|10 Para (SF) after capturing Chachro Village during 1971 war]] | [[File:10 Para (SF) team after capturing Chachro village in Pakistan.jpg|thumb|10 Para (SF) after capturing Chachro Village during 1971 war]] | ||
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{{Main|Kargil War}} | {{Main|Kargil War}} | ||
In 1999 nine out of ten Parachute battalions were deployed for Operation Vijay in Kargil, which bears testimony to the operational profile of the Regiment. While the Parachute Brigade cleared the Mushkoh Valley intrusions, 5 | In 1999 nine out of ten Parachute battalions were deployed for Operation Vijay in Kargil, which bears testimony to the operational profile of the Regiment. While the Parachute Brigade cleared the Mushkoh Valley intrusions, 5 Para was actively involved in the forgotten sector of Batalik, and was awarded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Unit Citation and Theatre Honour Kargil for its resounding success against the Pakistani Army | ||
===Operation Khukri 2000, Sierra Leone=== | ===Operation Khukri 2000, Sierra Leone=== | ||
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In the mid-1980s, there were plans to take the three para commando battalions from the Parachute Regiment and bring them together under an individual special organization, the Special Forces Regiment. However, after several logistic and administrative obstacles, these plans were abandoned, and they continue to be trained and recruited by the Parachute Regiment. | In the mid-1980s, there were plans to take the three para commando battalions from the Parachute Regiment and bring them together under an individual special organization, the Special Forces Regiment. However, after several logistic and administrative obstacles, these plans were abandoned, and they continue to be trained and recruited by the Parachute Regiment. | ||
Para (SF) operates in assault teams, which work individually behind enemy lines. The total | Para (SF) operates in assault teams, which work individually behind enemy lines. The total strength of the Parachute Regiment stands at about 8,000-10,000 this includes one [[Rashtriya Rifles]] and two Territorial Army battalions, while the Para (SF) includes between 5,000-6,000 personnel or maybe more currently. They have to hide their identity from the general public.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://iadnews.in/the-13th-para-sf-battalion-raised/ | title=The 13th Para SF Battalion Raised | date=3 May 2022 }}</ref> | ||
The [[Special Group (India)|Special Group]] (aka 4 Vikas/22 SF/22 SG), a clandestine special forces unit which operates under [[Research and Analysis Wing]], recruits from the PARA SF,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theweek.in/theweek/cover/covert-operations.html|title=Close encounters of the covert kind|date=9 October 2016|website=[[The Week (Indian magazine)|The Week]]|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190821160929/https://www.theweek.in/theweek/cover/covert-operations.html|archive-date=21 August 2019|access-date=2019-10-05}}</ref> [[MARCOS]], [[Garud Commando Force]]. Currently the Para Special Forces consists of 15 battalions:<ref name="kar.nic.in">{{cite web|url=http://www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in/units.htm|title=Welcome to The Parachute Regiment|website=www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622025648/http://www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in/units.htm|archive-date=22 June 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=December 24, 2016|title=Why Indian Army Special Forces are way behind US Navy SEALs or Israel's IDF despite upgrade|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/mail-today/story/manohar-parrikar-300-crore-proposal-sanction-defence-359288-2016-12-24|access-date=25 September 2020|website=India Today|quote=The newly raised 11 and 12 Para (SF) units...}}</ref> | The [[Special Group (India)|Special Group]] (aka 4 Vikas/22 SF/22 SG), a clandestine special forces unit which operates under [[Research and Analysis Wing]], recruits from the PARA SF,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.theweek.in/theweek/cover/covert-operations.html|title=Close encounters of the covert kind|date=9 October 2016|website=[[The Week (Indian magazine)|The Week]]|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190821160929/https://www.theweek.in/theweek/cover/covert-operations.html|archive-date=21 August 2019|access-date=2019-10-05}}</ref> [[MARCOS]], [[Garud Commando Force]]. Currently the Para Special Forces consists of 15 battalions:<ref name="kar.nic.in">{{cite web|url=http://www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in/units.htm|title=Welcome to The Parachute Regiment|website=www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622025648/http://www.indianparachuteregiment.kar.nic.in/units.htm|archive-date=22 June 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=December 24, 2016|title=Why Indian Army Special Forces are way behind US Navy SEALs or Israel's IDF despite upgrade|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/mail-today/story/manohar-parrikar-300-crore-proposal-sanction-defence-359288-2016-12-24|access-date=25 September 2020|website=India Today|quote=The newly raised 11 and 12 Para (SF) units...}}</ref> | ||
* 1 PARA (SF) – [[Western Command (India)|Western Command]] | |||
* 1 PARA (SF) – | * 2 PARA (SF) – [[Southern Command (India)|Southern Command]] | ||
* 2 PARA (SF) – | * 3 PARA (SF) – [[South Western Command (India)|South Western Command]] | ||
* 3 PARA (SF) – | * 4 PARA (SF) – [[Northern Command (India)|Northern Command]] | ||
* 4 PARA (SF) – | * 5 PARA – [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50(I) Para Brigade]] | ||
* 5 PARA ( | * 6 PARA – [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50(I) Para Brigade]] | ||
* 6 PARA ( | * 7 PARA – [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50(I) Para Brigade]] | ||
* 7 PARA ( | * 9 PARA (SF) – [[Northern Command (India)|Northern Command]] | ||
* 9 PARA (SF) – | * 10 PARA (SF) – [[Southern Command (India)|Southern Command]] | ||
* 10 PARA (SF) – | * 11 PARA (SF) – [[Eastern Command (India)|Eastern Command]] | ||
* 11 PARA (SF) – | * 12 PARA (SF) – [[Eastern Command (India)|Eastern Command]] | ||
* 12 PARA (SF) – | * 13 PARA (SF) – [[Southern Command (India)|Southern Command]] | ||
* 13 PARA (SF) – | * 21 PARA (SF) – [[Eastern Command (India)|Eastern Command]] | ||
* 21 PARA (SF) – | * 23 PARA – [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50(I) Para Brigade]] | ||
* 29 PARA – [[50th Parachute Brigade (India)|50(I) Para Brigade]] | |||
* 23 PARA ( | |||
* 29 PARA ( | |||
===Functions=== | ===Functions=== | ||
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All Indian Special Forces operatives are volunteers. Some enter the Para regiments fresh from recruitment, while others transfer in from regular army units.<ref name="BR para">[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=83&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26 Para Commandos] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203233503/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=83&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26 |date=3 December 2008 }} at [[Bharat Rakshak]].com</ref> They are put through a probationary period/selection process of three months for Para (Special Forces) battalions (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 21, 23 and 29 PARA SF). In order to be a Para (Special Forces) operator, all personnel are first required to qualify as Paratroopers; once selected the candidates may choose to advance to the SF selection, which takes place twice a year in the spring and the autumn term. | All Indian Special Forces operatives are volunteers. Some enter the Para regiments fresh from recruitment, while others transfer in from regular army units.<ref name="BR para">[http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=83&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26 Para Commandos] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081203233503/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/index.php?page=shop.browse&category_id=83&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26 |date=3 December 2008 }} at [[Bharat Rakshak]].com</ref> They are put through a probationary period/selection process of three months for Para (Special Forces) battalions (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 21, 23 and 29 PARA SF). In order to be a Para (Special Forces) operator, all personnel are first required to qualify as Paratroopers; once selected the candidates may choose to advance to the SF selection, which takes place twice a year in the spring and the autumn term. | ||
There are fifteen [[Parachute Regiment (India)|Para (SF) battalions]] and soldiers are selected accordingly. An example of this would be the 10 Para (SF) who are also known as Desert Scorpions. The probation period for this unit is three-months and the probationers are selected accordingly for [[desert warfare]].<ref name="mustaffa">{{Cite web|url=http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/10-para-sf-mustaffa-of-desert-warfare/|title=10 Para (SF) – Mustaffa of Desert Warfare|website=Indian Defence Review|language=en-US|access-date=2018-03-07}}</ref> The 9 Para (SF) who specialise in Mountain warfare go through a | There are fifteen [[Parachute Regiment (India)|Para (SF) battalions]] and soldiers are selected accordingly. An example of this would be the 10 Para (SF) who are also known as Desert Scorpions. The probation period for this unit is three-months and the probationers are selected accordingly for [[desert warfare]].<ref name="mustaffa">{{Cite web|url=http://www.indiandefencereview.com/news/10-para-sf-mustaffa-of-desert-warfare/|title=10 Para (SF) – Mustaffa of Desert Warfare|website=Indian Defence Review|language=en-US|access-date=2018-03-07}}</ref> The 9 Para (SF) who specialise in Mountain warfare go through a six-month course at the Special Forces training school in [[Nahan]], Himachal Pradesh, which is followed by further specialised selection.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/vc5nVprN5J6tJhF5U6UinL/Living-and-dying-in-the-Special-Forces.html|title=Living and dying in the Special Forces|last=Sengupta|first=Rudraneil|date=2015-11-27|work=Livemint|access-date=2018-03-07}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://defencelover.in/qualification-become-para-commando-indian-army-read/|title=What is the qualification to become a para commando in Indian Army? Read here... - DefenceLover|last=Gakhar|first=Raghav|date=2017-10-05|work=DefenceLover|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en-US}}</ref> This concept of geographical specialisation was eventually modified and each Para (SF) battalion is now trained to operate in various terrains and climatic conditions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bootcampmilitaryfitnessinstitute.com/elite-special-forces/indian-elite-special-forces/indian-army-special-operations-forces-parachute-airborne-parachute-special-forces/|title=Indian Army Special Operations Forces – Parachute (Airborne) & Parachute (Special Forces)|date=2017-02-10|work=Boot Camp & Military Fitness Institute|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thebetterindia.com/61054/little-known-indian-special-forces-badass-gets/|title=Formidable Fighters: 8 Indian Special Forces That Are Truly Badass|date=2016-07-08|work=The Better India|access-date=2018-03-08|language=en-US}}</ref> | ||
Soldiers of the [[Indian Army]] can volunteer for the course irrespective of rank.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://zittara.com/2016/03/16/how-to-join-special-forces-of-india/|title=How to Join Special Forces of India|date=2016-03-16|work=Zittara|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en-US}}</ref> Depending on the battalion, the probation period is for three months which doesn't include additional time for specialized skills. Over the probation period, all soldiers are stripped of their ranks, including officers, and are known as probationers or probies. A probationer may opt to leave anytime during the course.<ref name=":1">India's Paratroopers: Earning the Badge, Discovery Channel, Monday 26 February 2018 - 9 pm to 10 pm IST</ref><ref>{{Citation|last=DiscoveryChannelInd|title=India's Paratroopers - Earning the Badge|date=2016-08-03|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcoAQ5OMGHs |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/pcoAQ5OMGHs |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|access-date=2018-03-06}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thequint.com/news/india/what-it-takes-to-be-a-paratrooper-special-forces-in-indian-army-discovery|title=What It Takes to Be a Special Forces Commando of the Indian Army|work=The Quint|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.ssbcrack.com/2015/08/join-para-commando.html|title=How To Become A PARA Commando Officer|date=2015-08-03|work=SSB Interview Tips & Coaching {{!}} SSBCrack|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en-US}}</ref> The completion rate is under 12-15 per cent and this slightly high completion rate is because many probationers are drawn from their regimental battalions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Para-SF-team-was-the-%E2%80%98best-bet%E2%80%99/article13992559.ece|title=Para SF team was the 'best bet'|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2016-01-11|work=The Hindu|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Every Special Forces operator specialises in various skills such as weapons handling, demolition, navigation, communication, and medical. PARA (SF) usually work in small teams of only six men, focusing on strategic reconnaissance, surveillance, target designation (RSTAD), hostage rescue and direct action (DA) tasks, and are selected and trained accordingly.<ref>{{cite web |title=Employment of India's Special Operations Forces |author1=Deepak Sinha |author2=Ramesh Balakrishnan |publisher=Observer Research Foundation |url=http://www.orfonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/ORF_IssueBrief_150_SinhaBalakrishnan.pdf}}</ref> Those who complete the probation period and are inducted into the Para (SF) undergo further selection and training, but to earn the '''Balidan Badge''' or "''Badge of sacrifice''", they have to further survive being deployed in active operations in hostile zones.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-6QzDwAAQBAJ&q=indian+army+para+special+forces+selection&pg=PT129|title=Shoot, Dive, Fly: Stories of Grit and Adventure from The Indian Army|last=Rawat|first=Rachna Bisht|date=2017-10-15|publisher=Penguin Random House India Private Limited|isbn=9789386651693|language=en}}</ref> | Soldiers of the [[Indian Army]] can volunteer for the course irrespective of rank.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://zittara.com/2016/03/16/how-to-join-special-forces-of-india/|title=How to Join Special Forces of India|date=2016-03-16|work=Zittara|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en-US}}</ref> Depending on the battalion, the probation period is for three months which doesn't include additional time for specialized skills. Over the probation period, all soldiers are stripped of their ranks, including officers, and are known as probationers or probies. A probationer may opt to leave anytime during the course.<ref name=":1">India's Paratroopers: Earning the Badge, Discovery Channel, Monday 26 February 2018 - 9 pm to 10 pm IST</ref><ref>{{Citation|last=DiscoveryChannelInd|title=India's Paratroopers - Earning the Badge|date=2016-08-03|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcoAQ5OMGHs |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211222/pcoAQ5OMGHs |archive-date=2021-12-22 |url-status=live|access-date=2018-03-06}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thequint.com/news/india/what-it-takes-to-be-a-paratrooper-special-forces-in-indian-army-discovery|title=What It Takes to Be a Special Forces Commando of the Indian Army|work=The Quint|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.ssbcrack.com/2015/08/join-para-commando.html|title=How To Become A PARA Commando Officer|date=2015-08-03|work=SSB Interview Tips & Coaching {{!}} SSBCrack|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en-US}}</ref> The completion rate is under 12-15 per cent and this slightly high completion rate is because many probationers are drawn from their regimental battalions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Para-SF-team-was-the-%E2%80%98best-bet%E2%80%99/article13992559.ece|title=Para SF team was the 'best bet'|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2016-01-11|work=The Hindu|access-date=2018-03-06|language=en |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Every Special Forces operator specialises in various skills such as weapons handling, demolition, navigation, communication, and medical. PARA (SF) usually work in small teams of only six men, focusing on strategic reconnaissance, surveillance, target designation (RSTAD), hostage rescue and direct action (DA) tasks, and are selected and trained accordingly.<ref>{{cite web |title=Employment of India's Special Operations Forces |author1=Deepak Sinha |author2=Ramesh Balakrishnan |publisher=Observer Research Foundation |url=http://www.orfonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/ORF_IssueBrief_150_SinhaBalakrishnan.pdf}}</ref> Those who complete the probation period and are inducted into the Para (SF) undergo further selection and training, but to earn the '''Balidan Badge''' or "''Badge of sacrifice''", they have to further survive being deployed in active operations in hostile zones.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=-6QzDwAAQBAJ&q=indian+army+para+special+forces+selection&pg=PT129|title=Shoot, Dive, Fly: Stories of Grit and Adventure from The Indian Army|last=Rawat|first=Rachna Bisht|date=2017-10-15|publisher=Penguin Random House India Private Limited|isbn=9789386651693|language=en}}</ref> | ||
==== Training centres and courses ==== | ==== Training centres and courses ==== | ||
* Commando Training | * Commando Training Wing, [[Belgavi]], [[Karnataka]] | ||
* 4-week High-Altitude Commando Course, Parvat Ghatak School in [[Tawang]], [[Arunachal Pradesh]] | * 4-week High-Altitude Commando Course, Parvat Ghatak School in [[Tawang]], [[Arunachal Pradesh]] | ||
* Desert Warfare School, Rajasthan | * Desert Warfare School, Rajasthan | ||
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* Basic Combat Divers Course, Indian Navy's Diving School, [[Kochi]] | * Basic Combat Divers Course, Indian Navy's Diving School, [[Kochi]] | ||
* Counter insurgency, at the [[Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (India)|Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School]] (CIJWS) in Vairengte, Mizoram | * Counter insurgency, at the [[Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (India)|Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School]] (CIJWS) in Vairengte, Mizoram | ||
* [[Indian Special Forces Training School (SFTS)|Special Forces Training School]], | * [[Indian Special Forces Training School (SFTS)|Special Forces Training School]], Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh | ||
* Combat free-fall training (HAHO and [[High-altitude military parachuting|HALO]]) at the Parachute Training School, Agra | * Basic Parachuting and Combat free-fall training (HAHO and [[High-altitude military parachuting|HALO]]) at the Parachute Training School, Agra & Army Airborne Training School, Agra | ||
==== 90-day Selection ==== | ==== 90-day Selection ==== | ||
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In addition to this in-house training, the commandos also attend a number of schools run by the Army that specialize in terrain and environmental warfare.<ref name="BR para" /> These include the Junior Leaders' Commando Training Camp in [[Belgaum]], [[Karnataka]], the Parvat Ghatak School (for high altitude mountain warfare) in Tawang [[Arunachal Pradesh]], the desert warfare school in [[Rajasthan]], the [[High Altitude Warfare School]] (HAWS) in Sonamarg, [[Kashmir]], the [[Counterinsurgency and Jungle Warfare School]] (CIJWS) in Vairengte, Mizoram, and the [[Indian special forces training school]] in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh. These schools are among the finest of their kind anywhere, and routinely host students from other countries.<ref name="BR para" /> | In addition to this in-house training, the commandos also attend a number of schools run by the Army that specialize in terrain and environmental warfare.<ref name="BR para" /> These include the Junior Leaders' Commando Training Camp in [[Belgaum]], [[Karnataka]], the Parvat Ghatak School (for high altitude mountain warfare) in Tawang [[Arunachal Pradesh]], the desert warfare school in [[Rajasthan]], the [[High Altitude Warfare School]] (HAWS) in Sonamarg, [[Kashmir]], the [[Counterinsurgency and Jungle Warfare School]] (CIJWS) in Vairengte, Mizoram, and the [[Indian special forces training school]] in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh. These schools are among the finest of their kind anywhere, and routinely host students from other countries.<ref name="BR para" /> | ||
Members of [[USSOCOM]] (United States Special Operations Command) and [[UKSF]] (United Kingdom Special Forces) have conducted joint training exercises with the Indian Paras. SOF members from the three nations routinely train at each other's facilities to improve military cooperation and tactical skills. This allows the SOF operators from each nation to see tactics and perspectives offered by other top-notch organizations | Members of [[USSOCOM]] (United States Special Operations Command) and [[UKSF]] (United Kingdom Special Forces) have conducted joint training exercises with the Indian Paras.{{cn|date=February 2023}} SOF members from the three nations routinely train at each other's facilities to improve military cooperation and tactical skills.{{cn|date=February 2023}} This allows the SOF operators from each nation to see tactics and perspectives offered by other top-notch organizations. It is thought that the [[French Foreign Legion]] also has approached CIJWS regarding the courses taught by them. Para SF troops can also undergo a complete Combat Divers course, after which they earn a combat diver badge.<ref>{{Cite book|title=India: Foreign Policy & Government Guide, Volume 1|publisher=Int'l Business Publications|year=2001|pages=125}}</ref> | ||
They are also experienced in conducting SHBO (special heliborne operations) and typically employ Cheetahs, MI-8/MI-17, or HAL (Dhruv) helicopters for this purpose. | They are also experienced in conducting SHBO (special heliborne operations) and typically employ Cheetahs, MI-8/MI-17, or HAL (Dhruv) helicopters for this purpose. | ||
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[[File:Para SF operator with US special forces 2019.jpg|thumb|Para SF with US special forces during Vajraprahar 2019]] | [[File:Para SF operator with US special forces 2019.jpg|thumb|Para SF with US special forces during Vajraprahar 2019]] | ||
[[File:1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) Soldiers train with Para SF during Vajra Prahar 2018.jpg|thumb|Para SF train alongside US special forces during Vajra Prahar 2018]] | [[File:1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) Soldiers train with Para SF during Vajra Prahar 2018.jpg|thumb|Para SF train alongside US special forces during Vajra Prahar 2018]] | ||
The Para (SF) conduct a series of joint exercises, named Vajra Prahar, with the United States Army every year, in which about 100 personnel from the US and Indian special forces participate.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20121024000758/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-10-03/india/34238307_1_p-8i-vajra-prahar-joint-exercise "Indian and US special forces to conduct counter-terror exercise"]. ''The Times Of India''</ref> INDRA is a series of joint exercise with Russian special forces,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defence.pk/forums/indian-defence/143011-indian-russian-armies-conduct-joint-exercise.html|title=Indian & Russian armies to conduct joint exercise|access-date=19 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023055959/http://www.defence.pk/forums/indian-defence/143011-indian-russian-armies-conduct-joint-exercise.html|archive-date=23 October 2013}}</ref> and operation Sampriti is the name for joint exercises with Bangladeshi special forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indo-Bangla-Special-Forces-to-hold-joint-drills/10577/1/14.html|title=Indo-Bangla Special Forces to hold joint drills - Brahmand News|access-date=19 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160819082153/http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indo-Bangla-Special-Forces-to-hold-joint-drills/10577/1/14.html|archive-date=19 August 2016}}</ref> Para (SF) also conducts exercises and training with the special forces of [[Israel]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Indian special forces in Israel to train with the IDF's most elite units|url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/india-israel/indian-special-forces-in-israel-to-train-with-the-idfs-most-elite-units-513820|access-date=2021-02-01|website=The Jerusalem Post |language=en-US}}</ref> The Ajeya Warrior is a series of exercises with | The Para (SF) conduct a series of joint exercises, named Vajra Prahar, with the United States Army every year, in which about 100 personnel from the US and Indian special forces participate.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20121024000758/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-10-03/india/34238307_1_p-8i-vajra-prahar-joint-exercise "Indian and US special forces to conduct counter-terror exercise"]. ''The Times Of India''</ref> INDRA is a series of joint exercise with Russian special forces,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defence.pk/forums/indian-defence/143011-indian-russian-armies-conduct-joint-exercise.html|title=Indian & Russian armies to conduct joint exercise|access-date=19 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023055959/http://www.defence.pk/forums/indian-defence/143011-indian-russian-armies-conduct-joint-exercise.html|archive-date=23 October 2013}}</ref> and operation Sampriti is the name for joint exercises with Bangladeshi special forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indo-Bangla-Special-Forces-to-hold-joint-drills/10577/1/14.html|title=Indo-Bangla Special Forces to hold joint drills - Brahmand News|access-date=19 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160819082153/http://www.brahmand.com/news/Indo-Bangla-Special-Forces-to-hold-joint-drills/10577/1/14.html|archive-date=19 August 2016}}</ref> Para (SF) also conducts exercises and training with the special forces of [[Israel]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Indian special forces in Israel to train with the IDF's most elite units|url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/india-israel/indian-special-forces-in-israel-to-train-with-the-idfs-most-elite-units-513820|access-date=2021-02-01|website=The Jerusalem Post |language=en-US}}</ref> The Ajeya Warrior is a series of exercises with the SFSG of the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://article.wn.com/view/2013/02/08/India_UK_armies_to_hold_joint_exercise_in_April/#/video|title=India, UK armies to hold joint exercise in April|access-date=19 July 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160923181025/https://article.wn.com/view/2013/02/08/India_UK_armies_to_hold_joint_exercise_in_April/#/video|archive-date=23 September 2016}}</ref> Indian special forces also conduct exercises with forces of the following 16 friendly countries: the United States, France, the UK, Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Maldives, Seychelles, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}} | ||
===International competitions=== | ===International competitions=== | ||
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=== Influence on foreign units === | === Influence on foreign units === | ||
The Para SF has provided training to special forces from [[Afghanistan]] and [[Tajikistan]]. In December 2013, 60 Afghan special forces were trained by the 10 Para (SF) at the [[Thar Desert]]. A month earlier, the Tajik special forces had undergone training. In 2021, Uzbek airborne forces were also trained in specialized | The Para SF has provided training to special forces from [[Afghanistan]] and [[Tajikistan]]. In December 2013, 60 Afghan special forces were trained by the 10 Para (SF) at the [[Thar Desert]]. A month earlier, the Tajik special forces had undergone training. In 2021, Uzbek airborne forces were also trained in specialized para operations.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://in.reuters.com/article/india-afghanistan-idINDEE9BJ05E20131220|title=India begins training Afghan commandos as ties deepen ahead of 2014|date=2013-12-20|work=Reuters|access-date=2020-02-29|language=en}}</ref> | ||
== | ==Armoury== | ||
The following equipment are reportedly used by the Para (SF): | The following equipment are reportedly used by the Para (SF): | ||
{{dynamic list}} | {{dynamic list}} | ||
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*[[Beretta Px4 Storm]] Semi-automatic Pistol | *[[Beretta Px4 Storm]] Semi-automatic Pistol | ||
*[[Browning Hi-Power|Pistol 9mm 1-A]] Semi-automatic Pistol | *[[Browning Hi-Power|Pistol 9mm 1-A]] Semi-automatic Pistol | ||
*[[FN Five-seven]] Semi-automatic Pistol | |||
*[[Glock]] Semi-automatic Pistol | *[[Glock]] Semi-automatic Pistol | ||
*[[IWI Jericho 941]] Semi-automatic Pistol | *[[IWI Jericho 941]] Semi-automatic Pistol | ||
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*[[Barrett M107A1]] Anti-material Sniper Rifle<ref>{{Cite news|last=D'costa|first=Ian|url=https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/gearscout/irons/2019/03/19/indian-snipers-will-be-using-these-two-new-rifles-to-guard-their-border-with-pakistan/|date=2019-03-19|title=Indian snipers will be using these two new rifles to guard their border with Pakistan |work=Military Times|access-date=2022-06-08|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://theprint.in/defence/indian-army-deploys-us-italy-trained-snipers-with-deadly-new-rifles-along-loc/241829/|title=Indian Army deploys US-, Italy-trained snipers with deadly new rifles along LoC |last=Philip|first=Snehesh Alex|date=2019-05-28 |newspaper=The Print|access-date=2022-06-08}}</ref> | *[[Barrett M107A1]] Anti-material Sniper Rifle<ref>{{Cite news|last=D'costa|first=Ian|url=https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/gearscout/irons/2019/03/19/indian-snipers-will-be-using-these-two-new-rifles-to-guard-their-border-with-pakistan/|date=2019-03-19|title=Indian snipers will be using these two new rifles to guard their border with Pakistan |work=Military Times|access-date=2022-06-08|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://theprint.in/defence/indian-army-deploys-us-italy-trained-snipers-with-deadly-new-rifles-along-loc/241829/|title=Indian Army deploys US-, Italy-trained snipers with deadly new rifles along LoC |last=Philip|first=Snehesh Alex|date=2019-05-28 |newspaper=The Print|access-date=2022-06-08}}</ref> | ||
*[[Beretta|Beretta Victrix Scorpio TGT]] .338 Lapua Magnum Sniper Rifle<ref>{{Cite news|last=Alex Philip|first=Snehesh|url=https://theprint.in/defence/indian-army-deploys-us-italy-trained-snipers-with-deadly-new-rifles-along-loc/241829/|title=Indian Army deploys US-, Italy-trained snipers with deadly new rifles along LoC|date=2019-05-28|work=The Print|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces}}</ref> | *[[Beretta|Beretta Victrix Scorpio TGT]] .338 Lapua Magnum Sniper Rifle<ref>{{Cite news|last=Alex Philip|first=Snehesh|url=https://theprint.in/defence/indian-army-deploys-us-italy-trained-snipers-with-deadly-new-rifles-along-loc/241829/|title=Indian Army deploys US-, Italy-trained snipers with deadly new rifles along LoC|date=2019-05-28|work=The Print|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces}}</ref> | ||
''' | '''Machine Gun''' | ||
*[[IWI Negev|IWI Negev NG-7]] Light Machine Gun<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gurung|first=Shaurya Karanbir|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-opens-small-arms-manufacturing-unit-in-mp-in-a-joint-venture-with-israel/articleshow/58516436.cms|title=India opens small arms manufacturing unit in MP in a joint venture with Israel|date=2018-07-14|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces, Navy's MARCOS and IAF's Garud Commandos}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/95028/india-signs-usd117-8-million-deal-with-iwi-for-lmgs|title=India signs USD117.8 million deal with IWI for LMGs {{!}} Jane's 360|last=Bedi|first=Rahul|date=22 March 2020|website=[[Jane's Defence Weekly]]|access-date=2020-04-14}}</ref> | *[[IWI Negev|IWI Negev NG-7]] Light Machine Gun<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gurung|first=Shaurya Karanbir|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-opens-small-arms-manufacturing-unit-in-mp-in-a-joint-venture-with-israel/articleshow/58516436.cms|title=India opens small arms manufacturing unit in MP in a joint venture with Israel|date=2018-07-14|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=All the guns to be produced in the factory are already in service with the army's Special Forces, Navy's MARCOS and IAF's Garud Commandos}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/95028/india-signs-usd117-8-million-deal-with-iwi-for-lmgs|title=India signs USD117.8 million deal with IWI for LMGs {{!}} Jane's 360|last=Bedi|first=Rahul|date=22 March 2020|website=[[Jane's Defence Weekly]]|access-date=2020-04-14}}</ref> | ||
*[[PK machine gun#PKM|PKM]] General Purpose Machine Gun<ref name=":4" /> | *[[PK machine gun#PKM|PKM]] General Purpose Machine Gun<ref name=":4" /> | ||
*[[Mk 48 machine gun|MK48]] | *[[Mk 48 machine gun|MK48]] General Purpose Machine Gun<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=July 20, 2020 |title=New tools for India's special forces |magazine=India Today |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/new-tools-for-india-s-special-forces-1702604-2020-07-20}}</ref> | ||
'''Rocket Launcher''' | '''Rocket Launcher''' | ||
*[[C90-CR (M3)|C-90-CR-RB (M3)]] Rocket | *[[C90-CR (M3)|C-90-CR-RB (M3)]] Rocket Propelled Grenade.<ref name="TheWeekDesertScorpion"/> | ||
*[[Carl Gustaf 8.4cm recoilless rifle|RL MkIII]] 84mm Recoilless Rifle<ref name="TheWeekDesertScorpion"/> | *[[Carl Gustaf 8.4cm recoilless rifle|RL MkIII]] 84mm Recoilless Rifle<ref name="TheWeekDesertScorpion"/> | ||
*[[Carl Gustaf 8.4cm recoilless rifle|Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle(Mark-4)]] Light Weight | *[[Carl Gustaf 8.4cm recoilless rifle|Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle(Mark-4)]] Light Weight Recoilless Rifle.<ref name=":0" /> | ||
*[[B-300#Shipon|B-300 Shipon]] 82mm Rocket | *[[B-300#Shipon|B-300 Shipon]] 82mm Rocket launcher | ||
*[[Spike (ATGM)]] | *[[Spike (ATGM)]] Anti-Tank Guided Missile<ref name=":52">{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/army-inducts-israeli-tank-killers-till-drdo-develops-indigenous-ones/articleshow/71432164.cms|title=Army inducts Israeli 'tank killers' till DRDO develops indigenous ones|date=4 October 2019|work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=4 October 2019}}</ref> | ||
===Transport=== | ===Transport=== | ||
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*[[Boeing C-17 Globemaster III]] transport aircraft.<ref name="ETtransport" /> | *[[Boeing C-17 Globemaster III]] transport aircraft.<ref name="ETtransport" /> | ||
*[[HAL Dhruv]] utility helicopter.<ref>{{Cite news |author=Ajay Banerjee |date=January 11, 2018 |title=Following mishap, Army suspends 'slither down'<nowiki/>' operations from Dhruv |newspaper=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]] |location=Chandigarh |language=en |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/following-mishap-army-suspends-slither-down-operations-from-dhruv-526995 |access-date=2020-04-14}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/myanmar-operation-70-commandos-finish-task-in-40-minutes/articleshow/47617871.cms|title=Myanmar operation: 70 commandos finish task in 40 minutes|date=2018-07-14|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=...were airdropped at around 3 AM yesterday from Dhruv helicopters...}}</ref> | *[[HAL Dhruv]] utility helicopter.<ref>{{Cite news |author=Ajay Banerjee |date=January 11, 2018 |title=Following mishap, Army suspends 'slither down'<nowiki/>' operations from Dhruv |newspaper=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]] |location=Chandigarh |language=en |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/following-mishap-army-suspends-slither-down-operations-from-dhruv-526995 |access-date=2020-04-14}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/myanmar-operation-70-commandos-finish-task-in-40-minutes/articleshow/47617871.cms|title=Myanmar operation: 70 commandos finish task in 40 minutes|date=2018-07-14|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-04-14|quote=...were airdropped at around 3 AM yesterday from Dhruv helicopters...}}</ref> | ||
*[[Aérospatiale Alouette III#India|HAL Chetak]] utility helicopter | |||
*[[All-terrain vehicle|All Terrain Vehicles]] | *[[All-terrain vehicle|All Terrain Vehicles]] | ||
{{Div col end}} | {{Div col end}} | ||
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Para (SF) personnel, like other parachute troops in the Indian military, wear a maroon beret after they clear the Paratrooper (Air) course during the initial stages of probation. Their beret insignia is same as what paratroopers of regular para battalions wear. | Para (SF) personnel, like other parachute troops in the Indian military, wear a maroon beret after they clear the Paratrooper (Air) course during the initial stages of probation. Their beret insignia is same as what paratroopers of regular para battalions wear. | ||
The key factor that | The key factor that separates Para (SF) personnel from Paratroopers, apart from their doctrine, training & task, is that the former wear '''Special Forces''' tab on each shoulder and the '''Balidan Badge''', translated as "''Badge of Sacrifice"'', on their right pocket below the nameplate. Only the Special Forces personnel are allowed to wear these insignias after successfully completing the SF training and a certain number of successful combat ops.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Lt Gen PC Katoch |first1=saikat datta |title=India's Special Forces History and Future of Indian Special Forces |date=May 2013 |publisher=VIJ Books (India) PVT Ltd. |isbn=978-93-82573-59-3 |page=1617 |edition=Kindle}}</ref> | ||
Para SF personnel are allowed to grow hair & beard, as this allows them to blend in with the civilian population, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and terrorism-plagued areas. | Para SF personnel are allowed to grow hair & beard, as this allows them to blend in with the civilian population, especially in Jammu and Kashmir and terrorism-plagued areas. | ||
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===Maha Vir Chakra=== | ===Maha Vir Chakra=== | ||
*1965, Lt. General (then Major) [[Ranjit Singh Dyal]] of 1 Para | *1965, Lt. General (then Major) [[Ranjit Singh Dyal]] of 1 Para captured Haji pir pass under Operation Bakshi of 1965 war. | ||
*1971, Brigadier (then Lt. Colonel) Swai [[Bhawani Singh]] of 10 Para( | *1971, Brigadier (then Lt. Colonel) Swai [[Bhawani Singh]] of 10 Para (Commando) for the capture of large areas of Chachro and Virawah in Pakistan during 1971 war.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lt Col Swai Bhawani Singh Maha Vir Chakra |url=http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/swai-bhawani-singh |website=Gallantry Awards |access-date=11 September 2019}}</ref> | ||
* 1971 Maj Gen (Then Lt Col) [[Kulwant Singh Pannu]] of 2 | * 1971 Maj Gen (Then Lt Col) [[Kulwant Singh Pannu]] of 2 Para who led the Airborne Assault on Poongli Bridge, in Tangail, and subsequently led the Indian Army's entry into Dhaka with his unit. | ||
*1965, Brigadier (then Lt. Colonel) Russell Lazarus of the | *1965, Brigadier (then Lt. Colonel) Russell Lazarus of the 3 Para for action in the [[1965 War]] | ||
===Vir Chakra=== | ===Vir Chakra=== | ||
*1988, Maj. General (then Lt. Colonel) [[Dalvir Singh]], of 10 Para ( | *1988, Maj. General (then Lt. Colonel) [[Dalvir Singh]], of 10 Para (Commando) for the rescue of 74 SF personnel as well as the infantry personnel trapped, along with recovery of 6 fatal SF casualties during the Operation [[Jaffna University Helidrop]] in 1987.<ref>{{cite web |title=Lt Col Dalvir Singh Vir Chakra |url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/dalvir-singh |website=GallantryAwards.gov.in |publisher=Ministry of Defence India |access-date=8 December 2020}}</ref> | ||
===Ashok Chakra=== | ===Ashok Chakra=== | ||
* 1971, Brigadier Russell Lazarus MVC of the | * 1971, Brigadier Russell Lazarus MVC of the 3 Para, Military Attache at the [https://www.india.org.pk/ Indian High Commission, Pakistan] for espionage activities leading to the [[1971 War]] . | ||
*1995, (Posthumous) Captain [[Arun Singh Jasrotia]] of 9 Para ( | *1995, (Posthumous) Captain [[Arun Singh Jasrotia]] of 9 Para (Commando) for eliminating terrorists in [[Lolab Valley]] during operation Rakshak.<ref name=honorpoint>{{cite news| title=Capt Arun Singh Jasrotia AC, SM|url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/capt-arun-singh-jasrotia-acsm/}}</ref> | ||
*1999, (Posthumous) Major [[Sudhir Kumar Walia]] of 9 Para ( | *1999, (Posthumous) Major [[Sudhir Kumar Walia]] of 9 Para (Commando) for killing 9 terrorists single-handedly during operation Rakshak in Haphruda forest of Kashmir.<ref>{{cite web |title=Major Sudhir Kumar Walia, Ashok Chakra: India Remembering The Braveheart Para Commando |date=30 August 2020 |url=https://www.aviation-defence-universe.com/major-sudhir-kumar-walia-ashok-chakra-remembering-the-braveheart-para-commando/ |publisher=Aviation & Defence Universe |access-date=8 December 2020}}</ref> | ||
*2003, (Posthumous) Paratrooper [[Sanjog Chhetri]] of 9 Para(Special Forces) for operation Sarp Vinash in [[Poonch district, India|Poonch]].<ref name=Honorpoint>{{cite web|title=Paratrooper Sanjog Chhetri AC |url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/paratrooper-sanjog-singh-chhetri-ac/ |website=honourpoint.in |access-date=2021-02-07}}</ref> | *2003, (Posthumous) Paratrooper [[Sanjog Chhetri]] of 9 Para(Special Forces) for operation Sarp Vinash in [[Poonch district, India|Poonch]].<ref name=Honorpoint>{{cite web|title=Paratrooper Sanjog Chhetri AC |url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/paratrooper-sanjog-singh-chhetri-ac/ |website=honourpoint.in |access-date=2021-02-07}}</ref> | ||
*2007, (Posthumous) Captain [[Harshan R Nair]] of the 2 Para(Special Forces) for Baramulla Operation, 20th Mar 2007, eliminating four terrorists including, two top leaders.<ref>{{cite web |title=CAPT HARSHAN R Ashoka Chakra(Posthumous) |url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/awardee/1100 |website=Gallantry Awards |publisher=Govt of India |access-date=28 March 2021}}</ref> | *2007, (Posthumous) Captain [[Harshan R Nair]] of the 2 Para(Special Forces) for Baramulla Operation, 20th Mar 2007, eliminating four terrorists including, two top leaders.<ref>{{cite web |title=CAPT HARSHAN R Ashoka Chakra(Posthumous) |url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/awardee/1100 |website=Gallantry Awards |publisher=Govt of India |access-date=28 March 2021}}</ref> | ||
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===Kirti Chakra=== | ===Kirti Chakra=== | ||
*1994, Maj Gen (then Lt Col) SK Razdan of 7 Para for Counter-insurgency operation Op Rhino in 1994. <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/awardee/3320 | title=Gallantry Awards | Ministry of Defence, Government of India }}</ref> | *1994, Maj Gen (then Lt Col) SK Razdan of 7 Para for Counter-insurgency operation Op Rhino in 1994.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gallantryawards.gov.in/awardee/3320 | title=Gallantry Awards | Ministry of Defence, Government of India }}</ref> | ||
*2001,(Posthumous) Capt. R. Subramanian of 1 Para(Special Forces) for counter-insurgency operations in [[Kupwara]] area of Jammu and Kashmir in 2000<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/captain-r-subramanian-kc/|title=Captain R Subramanian KC | Honourpoint}}</ref> | *2001,(Posthumous) Capt. R. Subramanian of 1 Para(Special Forces) for counter-insurgency operations in [[Kupwara]] area of Jammu and Kashmir in 2000<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/captain-r-subramanian-kc/|title=Captain R Subramanian KC | Honourpoint}}</ref> | ||
*2009, Brig.(then Lt. Colonel) [[Saurabh Singh Shekhawat]] of 21 Para(Special Forces) for a classified operation in [[Manipur]] in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |title=LT COL SAURABH SINGH SHEKHAWAT, SC, SM, VSM |url=http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/saurabh-singh-shekhawat-sc-sm-vsm |website=Gallantry Awards |publisher=Ministry of Defense India |access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=President confers gallantry and distinguished service awards |url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/president-confers-gallantry-and-distinguished-service-awards_100168787.html |access-date=3 September 2019 |publisher=Thaindian.com Company Limited}}</ref> | *2009, Brig.(then Lt. Colonel) [[Saurabh Singh Shekhawat]] of 21 Para(Special Forces) for a classified operation in [[Manipur]] in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |title=LT COL SAURABH SINGH SHEKHAWAT, SC, SM, VSM |url=http://gallantryawards.gov.in/Awardee/saurabh-singh-shekhawat-sc-sm-vsm |website=Gallantry Awards |publisher=Ministry of Defense India |access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=President confers gallantry and distinguished service awards |url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/india-news/president-confers-gallantry-and-distinguished-service-awards_100168787.html |access-date=3 September 2019 |publisher=Thaindian.com Company Limited}}</ref> | ||
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*2017, Lt. Colonel.(then Major) Rohit Suri of 4 Para(Special Forces) for the [[Surgical strike]] against terrorist launch pads across the [[Line of Control]] in [[Pakistani-administered Kashmir]] in 2016.<ref>{{cite web |title=Meet the heroes of the Surgical Strikes |url=https://www.rediff.com/news/report/surgical-strike-heroes-honoured-with-gallantry-awards/20170320.htm |work=Rediff.com |access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref> | *2017, Lt. Colonel.(then Major) Rohit Suri of 4 Para(Special Forces) for the [[Surgical strike]] against terrorist launch pads across the [[Line of Control]] in [[Pakistani-administered Kashmir]] in 2016.<ref>{{cite web |title=Meet the heroes of the Surgical Strikes |url=https://www.rediff.com/news/report/surgical-strike-heroes-honoured-with-gallantry-awards/20170320.htm |work=Rediff.com |access-date=3 September 2019}}</ref> | ||
*2021, (Posthumous) [[Subedar|Sub]]. [[Sanjiv Kumar (soldier)|Sanjiv Kumar]] of 4 Para(Special Forces) for Counter Insurgency Op in [[Kupwara]], [[Kashmir]] in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |title=Subedar. Sanjiv Kumar KC |url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/subedar-sanjiv-kumar-kc/ |website=Honourpoint |publisher=Honourpoint Foundation |access-date=8 February 2021}}</ref> | *2021, (Posthumous) [[Subedar|Sub]]. [[Sanjiv Kumar (soldier)|Sanjiv Kumar]] of 4 Para(Special Forces) for Counter Insurgency Op in [[Kupwara]], [[Kashmir]] in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |title=Subedar. Sanjiv Kumar KC |url=https://www.honourpoint.in/profile/subedar-sanjiv-kumar-kc/ |website=Honourpoint |publisher=Honourpoint Foundation |access-date=8 February 2021}}</ref> | ||
*2009,(Posthumous) Paratrooper Shabir Ahmad Malik of 1 Para SF for fighting terrorists at Kupwara , Kashmir on 21 March | *2009,(Posthumous) Paratrooper Shabir Ahmad Malik of 1 Para SF for fighting terrorists at Kupwara , Kashmir on 21 March 2009 . | ||
* | * | ||
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==External links== | ==External links== | ||
* | * | ||
*Jawed Naqwi, [http://www.dawn.com/2002/12/24/top4.htm India had planned offensive], ''[[Dawn (newspaper)|Dawn]]'', 24 December 2002. | *Jawed Naqwi, [http://www.dawn.com/2002/12/24/top4.htm India had planned offensive], ''[[Dawn (newspaper)|Dawn]]'', 24 December 2002. | ||
* [http://www.specwarnet.net/world/india_para_commandos.htm Para Commandos] | * [http://www.specwarnet.net/world/india_para_commandos.htm Para Commandos] | ||
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[[Category:Special forces of India]] | [[Category:Special forces of India]] | ||
[[Category:Airborne units and formations]] | [[Category:Airborne units and formations]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Military counterterrorist organizations]] | ||
[[Category:Infantry regiments of the Indian Army from 1947]] | [[Category:Infantry regiments of the Indian Army from 1947]] | ||
[[Category:Units of the Indian Peace Keeping Force]] | [[Category:Units of the Indian Peace Keeping Force]] | ||