The Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army, often referred to as PARA and PARA (SF) (Special Forces), is among the most prestigious military units in the country. Known for their bravery and elite status, the PARA battalions are composed of volunteer soldiers who undergo rigorous selection and training. These soldiers are entrusted with high-risk operations that require exceptional physical and mental endurance.

The Elite Parachute Regiment

The Parachute Regiment, which includes both PARA and PARA (SF) battalions, stands as one of the most decorated units in the Indian Army. Recognized with the title of “Bravest of the Brave,” the regiment has a distinguished history of valor and sacrifice. It has been honored with multiple prestigious awards:

  • 8 Ashok Chakras (India’s highest peacetime military decoration)
  • 11 Maha Vir Chakras
  • 21 Kirti Chakras
  • 106 Shaurya Chakras
  • 63 Vir Chakras
  • 491 Sena Medals

The legacy of this regiment continues to grow as it upholds its commitment to protecting the nation through exemplary courage and professionalism.

Job Profile of PARA and PARA (SF) Soldiers

The soldiers of the PARA and PARA (SF) regiments are entrusted with specialized tasks that are unique in nature. These tasks demand the highest standards of physical fitness, mental resilience, and adaptability to harsh environments. Upon joining the regiment, soldiers undergo specialization training after clearing a demanding probation period. Some of the specialized training opportunities available include:

  • Combat Free Fall: Mastering high-altitude parachute jumps.
  • Underwater Diving: For carrying out maritime special operations.
  • Paramotor Pilot: Flying paramotor gliders for aerial reconnaissance or insertion.
  • IGLA and Anti-Tank Missile Operator: Operating sophisticated missile systems.
  • Rock Craft and Ice Craft: Specialized climbing and mountaineering skills for operations in challenging terrains.

These skills prepare the soldiers for any kind of mission, whether it involves land, sea, or air operations.

Elite Status and Symbolism

The distinction of wearing the maroon beret is a symbol of the elite status of the PARA and PARA (SF) forces. Globally recognized, this honor is earned through rigorous selection and continuous deployment in some of the toughest conditions. PARA troopers stand apart not only in the Indian Army but also in international military circles as warriors of exceptional capability.

Benefits of Joining PARA and PARA (SF)

Being part of the PARA or PARA (SF) regiment comes with a range of benefits, both monetary and career-enhancing:

Monetary Benefits

Soldiers in these elite units are entitled to additional allowances on top of their basic Army pay:

  • Special Forces Allowance: ₹17,300 per month for PARA (SF) soldiers.
  • Para Pay: ₹6,000 per month for soldiers in PARA battalions.

International Exposure

The PARA and PARA (SF) units often participate in joint training exercises and operational deployments with foreign armies. This international exposure provides invaluable experience in global warfare tactics and enhances cross-cultural military collaboration.

Complete Soldier Skills

Serving in the PARA regiment transforms a soldier into a highly skilled warrior. Over time, soldiers become proficient in multiple advanced fields, making them adaptable to any combat situation. The diverse skill sets acquired during training include:

  • Demolitions
  • First Aid and Trauma Management
  • Advanced Communication Techniques
  • Combat Survival Tactics
  • Weapons Proficiency, Including Sniping
  • Unarmed Combat (Philippines Martial Art: PTKE)
  • Language and Cultural Skills

Selection Process for Recruitment

The recruitment procedure for the PARA and PARA (SF) is highly selective, with multiple phases to ensure that only the best soldiers are chosen for these elite units. The following steps outline the selection process:

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must meet the following minimum criteria to be eligible for selection:

  • Physical Fitness: Achieve 100% marks in the physical fitness tests.
  • Written Test: Secure at least 50% marks.

Only those who meet these standards will be invited to volunteer for the PARA regiment during their recruitment process.

Special Screening Tests

Volunteers who wish to join the PARA or PARA (SF) must undergo additional physical and endurance tests. The standards for these tests are stringent:

  • 5 km run: Must be completed in 20 minutes.
  • Chin-ups: Minimum of 14 reps.
  • Push-ups: 40 reps in 1 minute.
  • Sit-ups: 80 reps in 2 minutes.
  • Shuttle Run (10m): 17 reps in 1 minute.

Candidates who pass these tests are then sent to the Parachute Regiment Training Centre (PRTC) for further training. Those who fail to meet the required standards at PRTC are reassigned to their parent regiments.

Safety Net for Volunteers

A unique aspect of the PARA recruitment process is that volunteers who do not qualify for the regiment after the special screening tests will still be assured a position in their parent regiment. This ensures that every candidate is provided with an opportunity to serve, even if they are unable to meet the elite PARA standards.

Conclusion

The recruitment and selection process for the PARA and PARA (SF) regiments is designed to identify soldiers with extraordinary physical and mental toughness. These elite units are a cornerstone of the Indian Army, and their rigorous training and high standards ensure they remain among the most formidable forces in the world. Those who succeed in joining the PARA regiment earn the right to be called a part of India’s finest, the Bravest of the Brave.

If you aspire to serve your country in the most challenging and rewarding way possible, volunteering for the PARA or PARA (SF) is your ultimate test of courage, endurance, and patriotism.