The Para SF of the Indian Army is a highly specialized force and commonly also called Para Commando. Technically one must undergo paratrooper training, before being able to go through Para SF Selection. They are trained in Hostage Rescue, Counter-Terrorism, Direct Action, and more.

Established in: "1996"

Motto: "Men apart, every man an emperor"

They are amongst the oldest airborne units in the world. Their selection process is considered one of the hardest in the world. Usually, only 10% of a training class will be fortuned enough to consider themselves Para SF. They also practice unconventional warfare.

To join, one must be an Indian Citizen, one can be a civilian or be already enrolled in the Indian Army. They have to pass the NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam.

Para SF Workout

This test involves 5 different exercises, which have to be completed in the listed order. There is a time cap of 1 min on pushups, 2 min on sit-ups, and 1 min on the MTR-shuttle. Candidates need to make sure to fully extend into a dead-hang chin up before bringing their chin over the bar. The MTR-Shuttle is very similar to the beep or bleep test of other units. Candidates need to run 17x a distance of 5 meters.

Selection Phase - Para SF

Selection Phase lasts about 3 months, before those candidates who make it will learn the advanced art of war. The attrition rate is very high. There are 2 courses conducted each year. 90% of the candidates will not make it. Candidates undergo a 36-hour stress test, which happens on day 42 of training. It is a test of continuous calisthenics, physical and mental stress, crawling with heavy rucks, sleep-deprived, km of speed marches with 30 KG rucks. Soldiers will also carry jerry cans around a track for a little over 1 km. Once they are done with one round, they will face another challenge, which seems to never stop. They will also carry Truck tires and Wood logs. They spend a lot of the 90 days rucking and orienteering.

Characteristics of a Para SF Operator

The Candidates who will make it through selection are those who will never give up and just keep walking, even if their tank is empty. Candidates are in top physical shape and are mentally resilient and mentally tough. Candidates are usually very young, intelligent, and very smart.

Facts of a Para SF Operator

To be considered a fully-fledged Special Force Operator in India, one must have spent a year in a hostile war zone, survive, and come back to earn the Badge.