Interesting Facts about Para Commando, Check Qualification, Probation and Training

Interesting Facts about Para Commando: Para Commandos, also known as the PARA SF , are an elite Special Forces unit of the Indian Army's Parachute Regiment. They are trained for various specialised operations, including direct actions, hostage rescues, special reconnaissance, and counter-insurgency. In this article, we'll look into some fascinating facts about these highly skilled and fearless warriors.

16 Interesting Facts about Para Commando

1. Paratrooper Qualification: All personnel must qualify as paratroopers Before becoming Para Commandos. This means they undergo rigorous training in parachuting techniques to ensure they can be deployed quickly behind enemy lines.
2. Volunteer Force: All Indian Paratroopers are volunteers. Only serving army personnel have the option to join the Para Commandos. This exclusivity adds to the elite nature of the unit.
3. Probationary Period: Candidates who aspire to become Para Commandos undergo a grueling probationary period of three months. During this time, they are subjected to a battery of physical and mental tests. Many candidates do not make it past this stage.

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4. Paratroopers Training School: Those who successfully complete the initial probationary phase move on to the Paratroopers Training School (PTS) in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Here, they must complete five jumps, including one at night, to earn their wings and the coveted maroon beret.
5. Specialized Training: After earning their paratrooper qualifications, those who choose to become Para Commandos undergo an additional three months of specialized training to prepare them for their unique roles. This training is known for its intensity.
6. Rigorous Selection Process: The selection process to become a Para Commando is one of the longest and toughest in the world. Candidates are exposed to sleep deprivation, humiliation, exhaustion, and physical and mental torture. Tragically, some candidates have lost their lives during this process.

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7. High Attrition Rate: The attrition rate for Para Commando selection is exceptionally high, hovering around 80%. This demonstrates the incredibly challenging nature of the training and selection process.
8. Operational Efficiency: To maintain their operational efficiency and physical fitness, Para Commandos are selected for their youth, physical fitness, mental robustness, intelligence, innovation, and high motivation. These traits are essential for successfully accomplishing their assigned operational tasks.
9. Extensive Operational History: The Parachute Regiment, to which the Para Commandos belong, has participated in numerous operations not only within India but also in other countries. They have even been part of United Nations operations in places like Gaza and Korea.
10. "Red Devils" Moniker: The nickname "Red Devils" was given to Para Commandos by soldiers of the German African Corps who fought against them in Africa. The name "Red" comes from the maroon beret worn by the paratroopers, which has become a symbol of pride for paratroopers worldwide.
11. Components of the Regiment: The Parachute Regiment is composed of traditional parachute forces, including the 3rd, 5th, 6th, and 7th Parachute. Additionally, there are Parachute Special Forces units, including 1 Para SF, 2 Para SF, 4 Para SF, 9 Para SF, 10 Para SF, 13 Para SF, and 21 Para SF.
12. Diverse Training: Different Para SF units have specific training focuses. For example, 10 Para SF specializes in desert warfare but is also trained for urban jungle and mountain warfare. On the other hand, 21 Para SF excels in counter-insurgency, jungle warfare, and guerrilla warfare, emphasizing camouflage, concealment, and sniping.
13. Specialized Skills: Para Commandos are trained in a wide range of skills, including firing while rolling and snaking. They are capable of operating in small teams, making them well-suited for special missions and clandestine operations.
14. Limited Sustainment: While Para Commandos are highly skilled, they can only sustain themselves in enemy territory for a brief period, typically up to 72 hours. Beyond this, they risk being overwhelmed by enemy forces.
15. Small Team Operations: Para Special Forces units are organized to operate in smaller teams, which is crucial for special missions and clandestine operations requiring secrecy and flexibility.
16. Multiple Skill Sets: Para Special Forces units are trained in various types of warfare, including urban, unconventional, mountain, jungle, desert, and guerrilla warfare. This diversity allows them to adapt to different environments and situations.

Para Commandos are among the most elite and versatile special forces units in the world. Their training, selection process, and operational history reflect their exceptional capabilities and unwavering commitment to serving their country. These warriors truly live up to their moniker as the "Red Devils" of the Indian Army.

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