Meet Lieutenant Colonel Anuj Chandra Shrivastava: Para SF Officer Behind India’s Indigenous Combat Parachute System “Hans”

In the domain of India’s defence self-reliance, Lieutenant Colonel Anuj Chandra Shrivastava stands as a distinguished exemplar of operational excellence combined with technological innovation. A serving officer of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), commonly known as Para SF, Lt Col Shrivastava has spearheaded the development of the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS), indigenously designated as “Hans” as reported by indiasentinels. This comprehensive system represents India’s first fully indigenous combat free-fall parachute ensemble, designed to enable high-altitude covert insertions while advancing the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Professional Journey and Background

Lieutenant Colonel Anuj Chandra Shrivastava brings a wealth of specialised experience to his role. Commissioned into the Parachute Regiment, he has served with the elite Special Forces, participating in demanding operational environments. His technical acumen was further honed during a significant tenure at the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra, a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) focused on parachute and aerial delivery technologies. He is currently assigned to Headquarters Army Training Command (HQ ARTRAC) in Shimla.

Addressing a Critical Operational Need: The Development of “Hans”

High-altitude combat free-fall (CFF) operations form a cornerstone of special forces tactics, enabling stealthy insertions into contested or hostile territories, particularly in high-altitude regions along India’s northern borders. Historically, the Indian Armed Forces depended on imported systems for such capabilities, which introduced vulnerabilities in supply chains, customisation, maintenance, and operational sovereignty. Modifications often required approval from foreign original equipment manufacturers, constraining tactical flexibility.

Recognising these limitations through firsthand operational and technical experience, Lt Col Shrivastava conceptualised and led the development of the MCPS “Hans”. The system constitutes an integrated, end-to-end solution tailored for the rigorous demands of Para SF missions. It has successfully completed more than 200 live trials and holds operational certification. A notable achievement occurred in October 2025, when the system facilitated a combat free-fall jump from 32,000 feet, with canopy deployment at 30,000 feet—the highest operational altitude for any parachute system currently in use by Indian forces.

Comprehensive Components of the MCPS “Hans”

The MCPS “Hans” integrates multiple indigenously engineered subsystems, each optimised for performance, safety, and self-reliance:

• Kit Shashi: A lightweight, bulletproof combat free-fall helmet, recognised as one of the most advanced of its kind worldwide.
• Aditi: Fragmentation- and splinter-resistant protective goggles.
• Parachute Breathing Oxygen System (PBOS): Provides essential oxygen support during high-altitude phases to mitigate hypoxia risks.
• Multi-Layered Thermal Protective Clothing: Includes inner and outer layers, along with gloves, engineered for extreme temperature variations.
• Kit Vartika: An advanced tactical load-carrying rucksack and combat load carrier.
• Main and Reserve Parachutes: Feature enhanced steering control and a reduced rate of descent for precise landings in designated zones.
• NavIC-Based Navigation: A chest-mounted tablet utilising India’s indigenous satellite navigation system, ensuring complete independence from foreign GPS technologies.

This holistic design not only enhances stealth, safety, and precision but also incorporates sustainable and cost-effective indigenous materials and processes.

Additional Innovations and Intellectual Contributions

Lt Col Shrivastava’s inventive contributions extend beyond the MCPS. He has developed:

• Kit Aadi: An altitude detection and deployment indicator that significantly improves safety during night jumps, particularly for junior paratroopers. This innovation was selected for mass production under the Army’s Inno-Yodha 2025 competition.
• Kit Shaambhawi: A humanitarian aid and disaster relief kit fabricated from reusable and condemned parachute material, promoting sustainability in relief operations.

He holds 12 patents, including those under application, establishing him as one of the most prolific innovators within the Indian Army and DRDO collaborative ecosystem.

Awards and Official Recognition

Lt Col Shrivastava’s achievements have garnered formal recognition. In July 2025, he received the Award of Technical Excellence in the individual category during the ARTRAC Investiture Ceremony in Shimla. He has also been commended by the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, in 2019 and 2020, and has earned appreciation from international special forces counterparts.

Strategic Impact and Broader Significance

The successful induction pathway of “Hans” represents a transformative advancement in India’s special operations capabilities. By eliminating reliance on foreign suppliers for critical high-altitude insertion equipment, the system enhances operational autonomy, reduces logistical vulnerabilities, and supports precise, high-risk missions in challenging terrains. It aligns directly with national imperatives for technological sovereignty and strengthens the readiness of Para SF and other airborne units.

As a serving officer who bridges frontline experience with cutting-edge research and development, Lt Col Shrivastava embodies the evolving ethos of the Indian Army—one where innovation is driven by those who understand operational realities most intimately.

Conclusion

Lieutenant Colonel Anuj Chandra Shrivastava exemplifies the modern Indian military professional: a combat leader, technical expert, and visionary innovator. His leadership in developing the MCPS “Hans” and associated technologies not only equips India’s elite forces with world-class, indigenous capabilities but also sets a benchmark for future defence research and development initiatives led by uniformed personnel. In an era where technological superiority increasingly determines strategic outcomes, officers of his calibre remain indispensable to India’s defence preparedness and self-reliance.