List of Paramilitary Forces in India
India's security, as well as the challenges faced by external and domestic threats, is a crucial topic, making security forces' awareness essential. India has 10 paramilitary forces that are semi-militarised and not part of a state's official armed forces.
Keep reading to learn about the different paramilitary forces in India.
What is a Paramilitary Force?
A paramilitary force is an organisation that functions similarly to a military force but is not an official branch of the regular armed forces. Frequently, paramilitary forces specialise in internal security, counterterrorism, and border control. They are frequently armed and trained for conflict, employing structures and strategies reminiscent of the military.
Their legal and operational frameworks may differ from conventional armed units.
List of Paramilitary Forces In India
| SNo. | Paramilitary Force | Governing Body | Area |
| 1 | Assam Rifles | Ministry of Home Affairs & Ministry of Defence |
Northeast India, India–Myanmar border |
| 2 | Border Security Force | Ministry of Home Affairs | India–Pakistan border and India–Bangladesh border |
| 3 | Central Industrial Security Force | Ministry of Home Affairs | Industries, public sector undertakings |
| 4 | Central Reserve Police Force | Ministry of Home Affairs | Counter-insurgency and general elections |
| 5 | Indo-Tibetan Border Police | Ministry of Home Affairs | India–China border |
| 6 | National Security Guard | Ministry of Home Affairs | Counter-terrorism |
| 7 | Railway Protection Force | Ministry of Railways | Indian Railways |
| 8 | Sashastra Seema Bal | Ministry of Home Affairs | India–Nepal border and India–Bhutan border |
| 9 | Special Frontier Force | Cabinet Secretariat | Covert operations |
| 10 | Special Protection Group | Cabinet Secretariat | Protection of significant persons |
What are the Different Paramilitary Force Ranks?
The Indian paramilitary forces have a similar rank structure as the Indian Army. These ranks may differ slightly across India's paramilitary forces, such as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and others. The following are the ranks in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Assam Rifles:
- Director General (DG)
- Additional Director General (ADG)
- Inspector General (IG)
- Deputy Inspector General (DIG)
- Commandant
- Deputy Commandant
- Assistant Commandant
- Subedar Major
- Inspector
- Sub-Inspector
- Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI)
- Head Constable
- Constable
Which is the Oldest Central Paramilitary Force in India?
The Assam Rifles, founded under British administration in 1835, is the oldest paramilitary force in India. It was previously known as Cachar Levy and was developed in the Assam region with the goal of monitoring India's international borders with the Northeastern states. Shillong is home to the headquarters of India's oldest paramilitary force.
India's paramilitary forces exemplify bravery, discipline, and unshakable dedication. They are a symbol of strength and national pride, with a long history and vast competence. From the Assam Rifles' lengthy history of duty to the BSF, CRPF, and ITBP's critical roles in border security and internal security, these forces exhibit their tenacity and adaptability in the face of adversity.
FAQs about Paramilitary Forces in India
Are paramilitary forces subject to civilian oversight?
Paramilitary forces in democracies are often regulated by civilian authorities and required to adhere to the government's established legal framework. This avoids misuse of authority and ensures that people are held accountable for their actions.
How are paramilitary forces trained?
Combat strategies, weapon handling, crowd control methods, and other role-specific training are all part of the curriculum for paramilitary forces.
Are paramilitary forces deployed during peacetime?
Yes, paramilitary troops are frequently deployed during times of peace to maintain internal security and provide assistance to civilian authorities.
Which one is the largest paramilitary force in India?
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is India's largest paramilitary force, consisting of 239 battalions and additional units with a total authorised manpower of 313,678.