
Top 10 Commando in India | Elite Forces that Define Bravery
India is home to some of the most elite and fearsome commando forces in the world. Trained for specialized high-risk operations, these units are known for their stealth, endurance, and unyielding courage. They operate in the harshest terrains, respond swiftly in emergencies, and protect the nation from both internal and external threats.
In this blog, we take a closer look at the Top 10 Commando in India, their roles, training, and significance. If you’re an aspiring soldier or deeply passionate about India’s defence services, understanding these units is the first step toward a prestigious career in uniform
Check out the list of Top 10 Commando in India
- Para Special Forces (Para SF)
Branch:Indian Army
Known For: Stealth missions, surgical strikes, counter-terrorism
Motto: “Balidan” (Sacrifice)
The Para SF is one of the most elite units of the Indian Army. Famous for their daring operations across borders and in insurgency-hit areas, these soldiers undergo some of the toughest training modules in the world. From jungle warfare to urban counter-terrorism, they’re always the first in and last out.
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- National Security Guard (NSG)
Branch: Ministry of Home Affairs
Known As: Black Cats
Specializes In: Counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, VIP protection
The NSG was formed post the 1984 Operation Blue Star and has since played key roles in events like the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Highly trained in close-quarter combat, the Black Cats are India’s front-line response team for high-profile emergencies.
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- MARCOS (Marine Commandos)
Branch: Indian Navy
Motto: “The Few, The Fearless”
Specializes In: Amphibious warfare, sea-based anti-terror operations
MARCOS operate in some of the most extreme conditions including underwater missions and anti-hijack operations. They’re often deployed in coastal areas, islands, and sea-based missions against piracy and terrorism
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- Garud Commando Force
Branch: Indian Air Force
Motto: “Defence by Offence”
Role: Special reconnaissance, airfield protection, behind-enemy-lines missions
Created in 2004, the Garud Commando Force ensures the safety of IAF assets and conducts rescue operations in hostile environments. They’re known for their sharp precision and high-altitude warfare capabilities
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- COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action)
Branch: CRPF
Known For: Guerrilla warfare in jungle terrain
Role: Anti-Naxal operations
COBRA commandos are jungle warfare experts and primarily deployed in left-wing extremism areas. Their agility, adaptability, and endurance make them ideal for hit-and-run operations.
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- Ghatak Force
Branch: Indian Army
Role: Infantry support, front-line attack
Known For: High-speed raids and deadly assaults
Each infantry battalion in the Indian Army has a Ghatak Platoon—its most physically fit and daring troops. Trained in various warfare techniques, they form the spearhead during an assault.
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- Special Protection Group (SPG)
Branch: Cabinet Secretariat
Role: Close protection for Prime Minister and former PMs
Known For: High-alert protocol, security technology usage
While not a combat force, the SPG is one of the most disciplined and technologically advanced units in India. Its members are trained in threat detection and high-level VIP protection.
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- Force One
Branch: Maharashtra Police
Role: Quick response to urban terror threats
Inspired By: NSG
Formed after the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, Force One is a counter-terrorism unit that operates within Maharashtra. It’s trained to neutralize threats in urban settings with minimal collateral damage.
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- Special Frontier Force (SFF)
Branch: Cabinet Secretariat
Founded In: 1962
Role: Covert operations, especially along the China border
Comprising Tibetan refugees and Indian soldiers, SFF is highly secretive and skilled in mountain warfare. Their missions are largely classified, making them one of India’s least-known but most impactful forces.
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- Greyhounds
Branch: Andhra Pradesh & Telangana Police
Role: Anti-insurgency, counter-Naxalite operations
The Greyhounds are specialized in combating Naxalite violence and are considered one of the finest jungle warfare forces in the world.
How to Join These Elite Commando Forces?
To join any of the top commando forces in India, a candidate must first become part of the respective armed force – Army, Navy, Air Force, or paramilitary. Selection is based on physical fitness, mental toughness, and specialized training.
Minimum Eligibility:
- Clear NDA, CDS, or respective service recruitment exams
- Exceptional physical and mental endurance
• Pass rigorous commando selection and training camps
How Indian Defence Academy, Dehradun Helps Aspirants Become Commandos
At Indian Defence Academy, Dehradun, we take immense pride in preparing India’s future soldiers and commandos. We provide the foundation and guidance needed to crack competitive defence exams like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, and Soldier Entry Exams, which are the first steps toward joining elite forces.
Here’s how we support our aspirants:
- Expert Faculty: With ex-army trainers and defence experts
- Physical Training: Focused on endurance, strength & obstacle training
- Mock Interviews & SSB Guidance: Personalized mentoring to clear SSB
- Trekking & Survival Camps: To boost mental resilience and team spirit
- Comprehensive Study Material: Covering all defence exam syllabi
Whether you dream of wearing the Maroon Beret of Para SF or becoming a Black Cat Commando, your journey can begin at the Indian Defence Academy, Dehradun.
India’s elite commando forces stand as a symbol of unmatched bravery and commitment. If you’re inspired by these stories and wish to serve the nation with pride, the first step is preparation. And at Indian Defence Academy Dehradun, your dream can take flight.