National Security Guard| NSG Commandos UPSC CSE

Summary of National Security Guard

The National Security Guard (NSG) was established in the aftermath of Operation Blue star in 1984 through the National Security Guard Act. It is an elite special forces unit of India, established in 1984 under the National Securities Guard Act to combat terrorism and provide protection against specific threats to national security. It works under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is headquartered at New Delhi. The motto of the National Security Guard (NSG) is "Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha" in Sanskrit, which means "Everywhere and Always the Best Security". It has two primary units - Special Actions Group (SAG) and Special Rangers Group (SRG). The other two groups to support it are Special Composite Group and Electronic Support Group. Many operations have been undertaken by NSG since its establishment including Operation Black Thunder (1988-1989), Operation cloudburst (1990), Operation Black Tornado (2008), Operation Cyclone (2009), Operation Dhangu Suraksha (2016), Operation Black Hawk (2019) etc. Since its establishment it has been a pillar of strength in India's defense against terrorism and safeguarding national security.

1) What is the National Security Guard (NSG)?

The National Security Guard (NSG) is an elite special forces unit of India, established in 1984 under the National Securities Guard Act to combat terrorism and provide protection against specific threats to national security.

2) Where is the Headquarter of NSG located?

New Delhi

3) What are the groups under NSG?

There are two primary operation units - Special Action Group (SAG) and Special Rangers Group (SRG).

4) What are the major operations undertaken by the NSG?

Many operations have been undertaken by NSG since its establishment. Some of the important operations undertaken are Operation Black Thunder (1988-1989), Operation cloudburst (1990), Operation Black Tornado (2008), Operation Cyclone (2009), Operation Dhangu suraksha (2016), Operation Black Hawk (2019) etc.

Background of National Security Guard

The National Security Guard (NSG) has its origins in the aftermath of the Operation Blue Star in June 1984. The Operation Blue star was about flushing out militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Following Operation Blue Star, the Indian government recognized the necessity for a dedicated counter-terrorism force. Consequently, the NSG was officially formed under the National Security Guard Act of the Indian Parliament. The Bill for its establishment was introduced in the Parliament in 1986 and received the Presidential assent on September 22, 1986 and the NSG formally came into being on that date.

Introduction of National Security Guard

The National Security Guard (NSG) is an elite special forces unit of India, established in 1984 under the National Securities Guard Act to combat terrorism and provide protection against specific threats to national security. It works under the ambit of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It’s headquarter is located in New Delhi. It is known for its speedy response and specialised skills.

Features of National Security Guard

Nodal ministry : Ministry of Home Affairs
Headquarters : New Delhi
Motto of NSG : The motto of the National Security Guard (NSG) is "Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha" in Sanskrit, which means "Everywhere and Always the Best Security". The motto of NSG reflects the NSG's commitment to providing the highest level of security and protection against terrorist threats and other security challenges across the country.
Headed by : NSG is headed by a Director-General selected by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The selected DG is an IPS Officer.
Groups under NSG : There are four groups that function under the NSG including two primary operation units :
1. Special Action Group (SAG)
  - It is one of the two primary operational units of the National Security Guard (NSG).
  - It consists of highly trained commandos specialized in conducting high-risk counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescue missions, and neutralizing terrorist threats.
  - SAG commandos are equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, tactical gear, and specialized equipment tailored for counter-terrorism operations.
  - The SAG commandos work closely with other law enforcement agencies and security forces, including the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and state police units, to coordinate and conduct joint counter-terrorism operations.
2. Special Rangers Group (SRG)
  - It is the 2nd primary operational unit of NSG tasked with providing support to the Special Action Group (SAG) during operations and training activities.
  - It conducts training programs for NSG personnel, including both SAG commandos and SRG members, to enhance their skills and efficiency.
  - The SRG is responsible for providing logistics, intelligence and medical support to the SAG.
  - It also assists in administrative tasks, planning, and coordination of NSG activities.
3. Special Composite Group
  - These groups are present in the regional hubs of the NSG.
  - There are five regional hubs of NSG located in Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and Gandhinagar.
  - It is a specialised hub consisting of personnel of armed forces and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) formed for special tasks including Disaster response, securing borders, maintaining law and order and combating insurgency.
4. Electronic Support Group
  - This group is responsible for providing electronic intelligence support, technical Surveillance Countermeasures and cyber operations support to the NSG.

Ethos of NSG

Excellence : The NSG is committed to achieve excellence in all its operations. It maintains the highest standards of performance in order to effectively counter terrorism and protect national security.
Error free : NSG tries to be error free as it deals with the national security situations.
Courage : NSG commandos are trained to remain courageous and resolute during dangerous situations. They demonstrate bravery in even the high pressure situations.
Adaptability : NSG has the ability to adapt and respond swiftly to evolving security threats. Commandos are trained to think on their feet, improvise when necessary, and adjust their tactics to effectively address new and emerging challenges.
Teamwork : Commandos of the NSG work in a team, relying on each other's strengths and expertise to achieve their objectives and to ensure success of the mission.
Professionalism and Discipline : NSG maintains the highest standards of professionalism and discipline. There are strict codes of conduct and ethics for the commandos to adher to while carrying out their duties.

Functions of NSG

Counter terrorism operations : The primary responsibility of the NSG is to conduct counter-terrorism operations to neutralize terrorist threats and prevent terrorist attacks.
Rescue operations : NSG commandos are trained to swiftly and safely rescue hostages from terrorists or other hostile situations, using specialized tactics and equipment to minimize casualties and secure the release of hostages.
Counter-hijacking operations : The NSG has also trained its commandos to respond to aircraft hijackings and other aviation-related security threats.
VIP protection : The NSG also performs the function of providing security to the high-ranking government officials, diplomats, and foreign dignitaries.
Security of critical infrastructure : Critical infrastructure like nuclear power plants, airports, and government buildings are also provided protection by NSG against terrorist threats and attacks.
Bomb Disposal and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) : There are specialised bomb disposal teams under the NSG to detect, defuse, and dispose of bombs and other explosive ordnance.
Training : The NSG conducts specialized training programs for its own personnel as well as for other law enforcement agencies and security forces to enhance their capabilities in counter-terrorism and security operations.

Operations undertaken by the NSG

Many operations have been undertaken by the National Security Guard. Some of the important operations are :-

Operation Black Thunder (1988-1989) : The Operation Black Thunder was conducted by the NSG to flush out militants who had taken refuge in the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, Punjab. The aim of the operation was to neutralise the ongoing militant activities in the area at that time.
Operation cloudburst (1990) : In 1990, the terrorists had seized control of the Hazartal shrine in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. In response, NSG launched Operation cloudburst to rescue the hostages and eliminate the militants, thereby restoring control of the shrine to the authorities.
Operation Vajra Shakti (2002) : In 2002, NSG and Indian Army conducted a joint counter-terrorism exercise to enhance coordination and interoperability between the two elite forces in responding to terrorist threats and hostage situations. The exercise was conducted at the NSG's training center in Manesar, Haryana
Operation Chakravyuh (2006) : It was a counter-terrorism exercise conducted by the National Security Guard to enhance the NSG's preparedness and capability to respond to terrorist threats and hostage situations in urban environments. It was conducted in various cities including Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Operation Black Tornado (2008) : The Operation Black Tornado was conducted by the NSG in response to 2008 Mumbai attacks to neutralize the terrorists who had carried out the attacks across the city.
Operation Cyclone (2009) : This operation was launched in response to the terror attack on the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore to neutralise the terrorists and secure the campus.
Operation Dhangu suraksha (2016) : The operation was conducted by NSG after the Pathankot Air Force station was attacked by the terrorists. NSG commandos were deployed to neutralize the terrorists and secure the airbase.
Operation Black Hawk (2019) : The operation Black Hawk was launched in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir following a terrorist attack on a convoy of Indian paramilitary personnel.

How are NSG commandos recruited?

Recruitment process of NSG commandos is very stringent due to the elite and specialized nature of this counter-terrorism unit.

Candidate must have served a certain number of years in the Indian army, Paramilitary forces or Police forces to become an NSG commando.
Candidates are usually selected from the ranks of Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and other ranks (OR) in the Army, and equivalent ranks in other forces.
Candidates must pass rigorous physical fitness tests.
Psychological tests are also conducted to test mental toughness, stress management, and decision-making abilities of the candidate.
Selected candidates undergo a rigorous training program at the National Security Guard Training Centre (NSGTC) in Manesar, Haryana.
Commandos also get specialised training in anti-hijacking operations, explosives handling, and unarmed combat etc.

Conclusion for National Security Guard

The National Security Guard since its establishment has been a pillar of strength in India's defense against terrorism and safeguarding national security. Through its Special Action Group (SAG) and Special Ranger Group (SRG), the NSG demonstrates unparalleled professionalism and proficiency in responding to a diverse range of security threats. It has proven its valuable contribution to India’s national security through its operations like Operation Black Tornado which helped save lives during 2008 Mumbai attacks. With its motto "Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha" (Everywhere and Always the Best Security), the NSG exemplifies excellence, valor, and unwavering resolve in serving the nation.

National Security Guard

NSG Commandos UPSC CSE