One of the highest powerful forces inside the Indian army, the Para SF Commandos are famed for their great bravery, rigorous schooling, and special operations. They take maximum hardest missions, which encompass hostage rescue, counterterrorism, and reconnaissance in risky environments. These missions are among the most difficult ones that they have faced. Their unwavering attitude and dedication to national security are shown in their motto, “Shatrujeet” (winner).
1. History and Evolution of Para SF
The parachutes were developed by the regiment back in the early 1960s. Originally formed to carry out air operations, the unit expanded’s ability to include special operations and establish a battalion of dedicated Special Forces. For decades, Para SF has participated in several important assignments, including the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka and surgical strikes in 2016 on the control line.
2. Organisational Structure
Para SF consists of several battalions, with each having special roles and operating areas:
- 1 Para SF (“Pratham”): First to be raised; versatile in various operations.
- 2 Para SF (“Predators”): Known for rapid deployment capabilities.
- 9 Para SF (“Pirates”): Specialises in mountain warfare.
- 10 Para SF (“Desert Scorpions”): Experts in desert warfare.
- 21 Para SF (“Waghnakhs”): Focused on forest and resonance operations.
Each battalion is trained to work in different areas and conditions, ensuring flexibility and preparedness for any assignment.
3. Selection Process
Para SF is a will for a person’s physical endurance, mental flexibility, and unshakable determination. The selection process is most challenging in the military world.
3.1 Eligibility Criteria
- For Officers:
- Must be a commissioned officer in the Indian Army.
- Volunteers from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) or Officers Training Academy (OTA) can opt for the Para Regiment during training.
- For Soldiers (Other Ranks):
- Must be serving in the Indian Army.
- Candidates achieving 100% in physical fitness tests and at least 50% in written exams during basic training are eligible to volunteer.
3.2 Probation Period
The probation period is designed to test the limits of the candidates:
- Duration: Approximately 3 months, varying based on the battalion’s specialisation.
- Activities:
- 20 km runs with full gear.
- 130 km marches carrying 65 kg backpacks.
- Live ammunition drills.
- Survival training, including handling snakes and overcoming fear.
Only about 12-15% of candidates successfully complete the probation, earning the coveted “Balidan” badge.
4. Training Regimens
Post-selection, commandos undergo specialised training to hone their skills:
- The Parachute Training School is in Agra, which offers a basic parachutist course.
- Specialising in sophisticated war skills, the Special Force Training School (SFTS) is located in Nahan, Himachal Pradesh.
- Guerrilla is the focus of warfare against the counter-insurgency and the Jungle Warfare School (Cijws), located in Vargat, Mizoram.
- High-altitude warfare school (HAWS): This mountain warfare training facility is located in Sonamarg, Kashmir.
Additional training includes:
- Combat free-fall parachuting (HAHO & HALO).
- Close-quarter battle (CQB) techniques.
- Demolitions and explosives handling.
- Advanced navigation and communication systems.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
Para SF commandos are deployed in various high-stakes operations:
- Anti-terrorism: The Elimination of terrorism is threatened at both national and international levels.
- Hostage rescue: Tasked Operational Operations to free the hostages.
- Recognition: Collection of information in hostile areas.
- Direct action: Launch of an aggressive campaign against hostile armies.
- Unconventional war: Rebel groups are trained and supported in enemy territory.
Stealth, quickness, and surgical accuracy define their operations.
Para Commando Salary: Basic Pay, Allowances and Perks
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6. Lifestyle and Challenges
Life as a Para SF commando is demanding:
- Physical demand: It is necessary to maintain optimal physical fitness.
- Mental flexibility: Has the extraordinary mental ability to act under high-voltage conditions.
- Family life: Conditions can be stressed by repeated distribution and privacy.
- Continuous training: Relocation is required at regular intervals to accommodate changing dangers.
Despite the difficulties with the commandos, there is a purpose and an unmatched sense of camaraderie.
7. Salary and Benefits
Para SF commandos receive competitive compensation:
- Basic salary: For a lieutenant, it starts at ₹56,100 and is scaled with rank and experience.
- Special forces allowance: Based on operating risk, ₹12,000 to ₹30,000 per month.
- Parachute pay: ₹1200 per month for airborne operation.
- High altitude allowance: Depending on the distribution site, ₹5,300 to ₹ 25,000.
- Field Area Allowance: ₹6,780 for those in combat zones.
Additional perks include:
- House Rent Allowance (HRA).
- Transport and Medical Allowances.
- Uniform and Equipment Allowance.
- Children’s Educational Assistance.
- Comprehensive medical facilities and a pension upon retirement.
8. Notable Operations
Para SF has been instrumental in several high-profile missions:
- Operation Pawan (1987–1990): He was deployed to Sri Lanka to help with peace and war operations.
- Operation Khukri (2000): 223 Indian soldiers were rescued in Sierra Leone.
- Surgical Strike (2016): There was an attack from the border against the terrorist launch pad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
- Counter-insurgency operations: Active participation in Jammu and Kashmir and northeastern regions.
These operations emphasise the strategic importance and efficiency of the Para SF in the protection of national interests.
Conclusion
Para SF Commandos is not just a career alternative; This is an obligation to serve the nation with unique bravery and dedication. The strict selection process, intense training and challenging lifestyle are a will for the elite position of these warriors. For people with passion, flexibility and unbreakable determination, Para SF provides an opportunity to be part of India’s most combined defence force.
FAQs about Para SF Commandos
Ans. No, the person should be part of the Indian Army and then come forward for the Para SF.
Ans. Usually, military volunteers between the ages of 18-23 can be voluntary, but specific criteria may vary.
Ans. Yes, it is considered one of the most challenging special forces that tests both physical and mental boundaries.
Ans. Yes, they often participate in joint exercises and training programs with foreign special forces.
Ans. “Men Apart, Every Man an Emperor” – signifying their unmatched courage and skill.