NSG Celebrates 41st Raising Day with Live Demonstrations and Strategic Developments
The National Security Guard (NSG), India’s foremost counter-terrorism unit, celebrated its 41st Raising Day today at its base in Manesar, showcasing a range of operational demonstrations. This event, attended by top dignitaries, highlighted the unit's dedication to national security amid evolving challenges, reflecting advancements in their training and facilities.
Founded in 1984 after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Operation Blue Star, the NSG was created as a federal response unit to tackle terrorist threats with precision. Over the years, it has grown into a symbol of tactical prowess, drawing members from the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, and State Police. The NSG’s duties include counter-terrorism, counter-hijacking, hostage rescue, and safeguarding critical infrastructure, often operating under extremely challenging conditions.
The Raising Day festivities began with a ceremonial parade, followed by demonstrations of the NSG commandos' specialized capabilities. The audience observed simulated exercises such as close-quarters combat, bomb disposal, and rapid response tactics, illustrating the unit's use of advanced weaponry, surveillance technology, and physical skills. These performances underscored the rigorous training and adaptability of the commandos to modern asymmetric warfare.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah was the chief guest, and in his address, he commended the NSG’s pivotal role in combating terrorism over the past 40 years. He emphasized the demonstrations as a testament to the nation’s strong defense strategies. Shah also highlighted the government's zero-tolerance stance on terrorism, referencing recent amendments to the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act that have bolstered investigative powers and curbed terror financing.
In a notable move, Shah inaugurated the Special Operations Training Centre (SOTC) at Manesar, a cutting-edge facility costing Rs 141 crore. This center will not only be available to NSG personnel but also to commandos from state police forces, supporting joint training in urban warfare, explosive ordnance disposal, and cyber-threat countermeasures. This initiative is part of the broader governmental strategy to enhance inter-agency coordination and capacity-building within law enforcement.
Further expanding the NSG’s reach, Shah announced a new NSG hub in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, marking the seventh regional center in the country. This expansion aims to enhance rapid response capabilities in sensitive regions, ensuring quick deployment against potential threats. Strategically placed in cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, these hubs have been crucial in past operations, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where NSG commandos ended a 60-hour siege.
The event also included interactions with NSG families and veterans, acknowledging the sacrifices made by those serving in anonymity. Over the years, the NSG has undertaken numerous critical missions, including the 2016 Pathankot airbase attack, maintaining vigilance against cross-border terrorism. Despite its achievements, the NSG continues to invest in modernization, employing artificial intelligence-driven analytics and drone surveillance to stay ahead of threats.
As the nation reflects on the NSG’s 41 years of service, the Raising Day acts as a powerful reminder of the ongoing vigilance required amid continuous security challenges. With the motto "Sarvatra Sarvottam Suraksha" (All-Around Perfect Security), the force remains a crucial component of India’s internal defense framework, prepared to protect the nation’s sovereignty for years to come.
