The dream of many Indian youths is to join the Indian Army, serve the nation, and protect its interests. With this noble intent, countless aspirants work tirelessly and strategize to apply for various posts in the army. One of the most prestigious and challenging positions is that of a Para Commando.
The Para Commandos are the Special Forces unit of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment. They undertake the most difficult and dangerous missions such as special operations, direct action, hostage rescue, anti-terrorist operations, unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, internal security, and more. These soldiers are highly trained, physically and mentally tough, and possess exceptional combat skills.
Contents
- 0.1 About Para Commandos
- 0.2 History of Para Commando Unit
- 0.3 How to Become a Para Commando
- 0.4 Major Operations of Para Commandos
- 1 Process to Become a Para Commando
- 2 Selection Process for Para Commando
- 3 Eligibility Criteria to Become a Para Commando
- 4 Top Institutes for Para Commando Training
- 5 Para Commando Training Schedule
About Para Commandos
The Para Commando unit is known for its extraordinary courage and elite training. These soldiers operate in the toughest conditions and provide the highest level of service to the nation. Besides the Indian Army’s Para Commandos, the Navy has MARCOS and the Air Force has Garud Commandos, both similarly elite units.
History of Para Commando Unit
Formed on July 1, 1966, the Para Commando unit was established to defend India from internal and external threats through rapid airborne operations. Today, the Indian Army has about nine battalions of Para Commandos, each ready for swift deployment in any critical situation.
How to Become a Para Commando
Becoming a Para Commando is not easy. The Para Commando selection process is extremely tough and demanding. Jawans are selected from within Para units as well as other army units. The selection process spans three months, involving grueling physical and mental challenges designed to test endurance and resilience.
A typical day for a Para Commando aspirant begins with carrying 60 to 65 kg of weight and running 20 kilometers. Training lasts for around three and a half years and includes continuous updates on skills and tactics. A Para Commando must complete at least 50 parachute jumps from heights up to 33,500 feet.
Training takes place at the Air Force Para Training School in Agra and includes specialized combat training such as underwater fighting at the Naval Diving School in Kochi. Around 90% of candidates fail or drop out during the training due to its intensity, and many even lose their lives during this process.
Major Operations of Para Commandos
- Bangladesh Liberation War (1971): Played a crucial role in the 16-day war leading to Bangladesh’s independence.
- Operation Bluestar (1984): Eliminated terrorists from the Golden Temple.
- Operation Pawan (1987): Assisted peacekeeping in Sri Lanka against LTTE.
- Operation Cactus (1988): Foiled a coup attempt in Maldives.
- Operation Rakshak (1995): Rescued hostages in Kashmir.
- Kargil War (1999): Played a vital role in regaining Indian territories.
- Operation Khukhri (2000): Helped UN forces in Sierra Leone.
- Myanmar Operation (2015): Retaliated against militants after the martyrdom of Indian soldiers.
Process to Become a Para Commando
To become a Para Commando, you must first join the Indian Army as a soldier in any battalion. After this, selection for the Para Commandos is done by Para Commando officers. There are two main routes for recruitment:
- Direct recruitment: Conducted through army rallies where physically fit candidates are shortlisted for training.
- Internal selection: Existing army soldiers can apply through a letter of recommendation (LOR) from their regimental commander to be considered for Para Commando selection.
Once selected, candidates undergo rigorous and extremely tough training. Only about 10% of candidates qualify during this process. The training includes:
- Spending 3 months at the Commando Center.
- A 6-month specialized training for becoming a Para Commando.
- Daily tasks include carrying 60-65 kg weight and running 20 km.
- Parachuting training with a minimum of 50 jumps from heights of up to 33,500 feet.
- Combat training at the Air Force Para Training School, Agra, and underwater combat training at the Naval Diving School, Kochi.
Selection Process for Para Commando
The selection process is highly competitive and only the best candidates qualify. The main stages include:
- Physical Fitness Test: Candidates must achieve 100% pass marks.
- Written Test: Minimum 50% marks are required.
- Special Screening Physical Tests, including:
- 5 km run in 20 minutes
- Chin-ups (minimum 14)
- 40 push-ups in 1 minute
- 80 sit-ups in 2 minutes
- 17 meter shuttles in 1 minute
Candidates who fail to meet these standards are usually transferred back to their original regiment for further training.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Para Commando
- Nationality: Indian citizen or Nepalese/Bhutanese subject; Tibetan refugees settled in India before 1 January 1962; or persons of Indian origin settled permanently in India.
- Age: Minimum 16.5 years and maximum 19.5 years.
- Marital Status: Only unmarried male candidates are eligible.
- Physical Standards:
- Minimum height of 157 cm for Army and Navy.
- Minimum height of 162.5 cm for Air Force.
Top Institutes for Para Commando Training
Some of the top institutes for Para Commando training include:
- National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune
- Army Airborne Training School, Agra
- Para Regiment Training Centre, Bengaluru
- Commando Training School, Belgaum
- Northern Command Training Centre, Jammu & Kashmir
- Special Forces Training School, Nagaland
- Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School, Mizoram
- High Altitude Warfare School, Gulmarg
Para Commando Training Schedule
The training schedule of Para Commandos is intensive and demanding. Candidates train rigorously for several months, focusing on physical fitness, combat skills, parachuting, and survival techniques to prepare them for various complex operations.
Conclusion
Becoming a Para Commando is one of the most challenging yet prestigious paths in the Indian Army. It requires exceptional physical fitness, mental strength, and a high level of courage and discipline. If you aspire to become part of this elite force, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare physically and mentally, and stay committed to your goal.
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