Unveiling the Elite: Inside India’s Para SF
Para (Special Forces), also referred to as Para Commandos or Para (SF) Commandos or Red Devils, constitute a group of special forces battalions within the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army. These specialized units are adept in a variety of roles, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, counter-insurgency, and direct action.
The unit traces its lineage back to World War II, with the establishment of the 50th Parachute Brigade in October 1941 under the British Indian Army. 9 Para (SF) was raised in 1966 as the 9th Parachute Commando Battalion within the Parachute Regiment, making it the oldest among the fifteen Para (SF) units of the Indian Army. Over the years, it has been actively involved in numerous operations, including the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 (including the Chachro Raid), Operation Bluestar, Operation Pawan, Operation Cactus, the Kargil War, Operation Ginger, the 2015 Indian counter-insurgency operation in Myanmar, the 2016 Pampore stand-off, the 2016 Indian Line of Control strike, and various anti-terror operations.
The Parachute Regiment currently encompasses fifteen Special Forces units, along with two Territorial Army battalions and one Counter-Insurgency (Rashtriya Rifles) battalion. Due to the absence of centralized command and standardized selection procedures, there is a variety of pipelines for entry into different Para (SF) battalions.
In the mid-1980s, plans were devised to consolidate the three para commando battalions under a separate entity called the Special Forces Regiment. However, logistical and administrative challenges led to the abandonment of these plans, and the units continue to be trained and recruited by the Parachute Regiment.
The Para (SF) operates in assault teams, functioning independently behind enemy lines. The total strength of the Parachute Regiment stands at approximately 8,000–10,000, including one Rashtriya Rifles and two Territorial Army battalions. Meanwhile, the Para (SF) comprises between 5,000–6,000 personnel or more presently. Their operational history remains classified, and they must maintain discretion regarding their credentials during active service.
The Special Group (also known as 4 Vikas/22 SF/22 SG), a clandestine special forces unit operating under the Research and Analysis Wing, recruits from the PARA SF, MARCOS, and Garud Commando Force. Currently, the Para Special Forces consist of 15 battalions distributed across various commands:
1 PARA (SF) — Western Command
2 PARA (SF) — Central Command
3 PARA (SF) — South Western Command
4 PARA (SF) — Northern Command
5 PARA (SF) — 50(I) Para Brigade
6 PARA (SF) — 50(I) Para Brigade
7 PARA (SF) — 50(I) Para Brigade
9 PARA (SF) — Northern Command
10 PARA (SF) — Southern Command
11 PARA (SF) — Eastern Command
12 PARA (SF) — Eastern Command
13 PARA (SF) — Southern Command
21 PARA (SF) — Eastern Command
23 PARA (SF) — 50(I) Para Brigade
29 PARA (SF) — 50(I) Para Brigade
Selection Process
All members of the Indian Special Forces are volunteers. Some join the Para regiments directly after recruitment, while others transfer from regular army units. Candidates undergo a three-month probationary period/selection process for Para (Special Forces) battalions, including units such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 21, 23, and 29 PARA SF. To qualify as a Para (Special Forces) operator, all personnel must first become Paratroopers. After this, selected candidates may choose to proceed to the SF selection, which occurs biannually in the spring and autumn.
During the 90-day probationary period, candidates undergo intensive training and testing:
Days 1 to 35: Initial training focuses on physical conditioning and skill development. Candidates engage in rigorous exercises, including blindfolded team assembly, weapons training, demolition, navigation, communication, and medical and cooking skills. They endure challenging tasks such as going without food for four days, limiting water intake to one liter for three days, and staying awake for seven days. Regular speed marches and runs, spanning distances from 10 to 40 kilometers, are conducted. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional navigation skills in difficult terrains. Parachute training includes a 3-week Basic Parachute Course in Agra. Approximately 20% of candidates drop out during this stage.
Day 45: The 36-hour Para SF stress test pushes candidates to their limits with exercises, maneuvers, and endurance challenges. Activities include a 10 km speed march carrying heavy loads, weight shifting tasks, simulated drowning, and continuous exercises for 6 hours. Practical combat skills such as ambush placement and response are tested under extreme fatigue and lack of sleep.
Day 56: Candidates undertake a 100 km endurance run, completing the challenging course within 13 to 15 hours. This demanding run tests their physical endurance and mental toughness.
Days 60 to 90: The final stage, Counter Terror Operations, is the toughest and most secretive part of the selection process. Details about this stage are not publicly disclosed.
Successful candidates who complete the 90-day probation period receive their maroon berets and participate in a glass-eating tradition.
Insignia
Para (SF) personnel, like other parachute troops in the Indian military, earn the privilege of wearing a maroon beret upon successfully completing the Paratrooper (Air) course during the initial stages of their probation. Their beret insignia mirrors that of paratroopers in regular para battalions.
What distinguishes Para (SF) personnel from Paratroopers, beyond their doctrine, training, and tasks, is the Special Forces tab adorning each shoulder and the Balidan Badge, known as the “Badge of Sacrifice,” positioned on their right pocket below the nameplate. These insignias are exclusively worn by Special Forces personnel who have completed SF training and participated in a designated number of successful combat operations. The design of the badge draws inspiration from the UK Special Air Service.
Para SF personnel have the liberty to grow their hair and beard. This practice allows them to blend seamlessly with the civilian population, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir and areas plagued by terrorism.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Valor
In conclusion, the Parachute Regiment and Special Forces of the Indian Army represent the pinnacle of military excellence. From their distinguished history to their rigorous training and unmatched operational capabilities, these elite units embody the spirit of bravery and sacrifice. For those who wear the maroon beret, it is not just a symbol of honor; it is a testament to their unwavering commitment to defend the nation’s sovereignty and uphold its values, no matter the cost.
