10 Fun Facts About India’s Elite Special Forces You Didn’t Know
India’s elite forces are famous for discipline, courage and unique skills. On a light holiday note, here are 10 fun and surprising facts about units like MARCOS, Para (SF), NSG, Garud and more.
1. MARCOS — The “Dadiwala Fauj”
The Marine Commandos (MARCOS) earned the nickname “Dadiwala Fauj” (Bearded Army) in some conflict zones because operatives sometimes grow long beards and wear civilian-style clothes to blend in during counter-insurgency missions.
2. Para (SF) and the Balidaan Badge
In Para Special Forces, the iconic Balidaan Badge is not handed out — it is earned after completing one of the toughest training regimes in the world. Wearing it is a mark of extreme perseverance and skill.
3. Garud Commandos — The Youngest Elite Force
Raised after the 1999 Kargil conflict, the Garud Commando Force of the Indian Air Force is the newest of India’s elite units, but it now shoulders high-value tasks like airbase security, counter-terrorism and special operations.
4. NSG’s Black Cats and Their Signature Look
The National Security Guard (NSG) commandos are nicknamed the Black Cats for their all-black gear, tactical suits and tinted visors. They specialise in counter-terrorism and VIP protection and are routinely deployed for the nation’s highest-risk operations.
5. Ghatak Platoons — Commandos Inside Every Battalion
Every Indian Army infantry battalion has a Ghatak Platoon — a specialised shock troop unit trained in commando-style tactics. Ghataks are first-in units for raids, ambushes and direct-action missions.
6. CoBRA Commandos — Jungle Warfare Experts
CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) was formed to counter left-wing extremism. Their speciality is jungle warfare, guerrilla tactics and long-range patrolling — skills tailored to operations in dense terrain.
7. Force One — Born from Tragedy
Post-26/11, Maharashtra raised Force One, an ultra-fast urban response unit for Mumbai. The unit’s quick reaction capability was designed to plug immediate gaps in city-level counter-terror response.
8. Special Frontier Force (SFF) — Tibetan High-Altitude Commandos
Created in 1962, the Special Frontier Force comprises many Tibetan volunteers trained for high-altitude operations. The unit is specialised in clandestine and mountain warfare missions in the Himalayas.
9. Para Dogs and Airborne Horses
Special units don’t just train people — they train animals. Para (SF) deploys specially trained dogs for explosive detection and tracking. In rare airborne operations, horses and dogs have been used to move men and material into difficult terrain.
10. Brutal Selection — Only a Few Make It Through
Selection for units like Para (SF) is brutally tough. Dropout rates of 85–90% in initial courses are common — only the most resilient and determined soldiers earn the right to serve in these elite outfits.
Conclusion
From blending into local environments to airborne animals and near-mythical selection courses, India’s elite forces combine tradition, innovation and extraordinary grit. These short facts are perfect for a holiday read — share them and spark conversations.
