NSG Full Form

NSG full form is National Security Guard and is a top terrorism counter wing functioning under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs. It was founded in 1984 after the shameful attack on Golden Temple. It is recognised as an important commando wing out of seven central Armed Forces in India. NSG commandos got their name “black cats' representing their black uniform.

What is the Full Form of NSG?

NSG full form is the National Security Guard responsible for protecting the nation by curbing terrorist attacks. These commandos are pretty brave-hearted and the deadliest forces in India, working dedicatedly towards maintaining the nation's security. The National Security Force embarks on a victorious path with the supreme motto “Sarvotam Suraksha”(omnipresent, omnipotent security). 

To restore the peace and integrity of the nation, this force operates under critical situations like hijacks or terrorist attack zones. Apart from countering terrorism, they provide security to VVIPS. 

Broad Categories of NSG Officers

For swift functionality, this wing has been divided into two broad categories that include

• Special Action Group (SAG): This group of security personnel are involved in the direct execution of any operation. Officers from the Indian army are hired as special action group officers.
• Special Rangers Group (SRG): They work as assistance to the SAGs in situations whereby isolation of critical areas is conducted. Generally, personnel from paramilitary forces are recruited as special rangers group personnel.

Functions of NSG

NSG commandos undergo a tough training phase as the forces play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's integrity and security. They fulfill the following functions and help a nation overcome security challenges with ease.

1. Counter Terrorist Attacks: NSG officers are specially trained to combat terrorist attacks. They remain vigilant and updated concerning terrorist activities in a specific location with various secret operations. 
2. Special Operations: These security personnel possess skills of secrecy and precision that help them carry out special operations like surgical strikes, reconnaissance etc.
3. VIP Security: NSG acts as security in charge of VVIPs like the prime minister, president and other eminent personalities. They resort to safe practices and remain vigilant when protecting dignitaries.
4. Training: The black cat commandos undertake training programmes for armed forces and security agencies. They impart special training in the domain of fighting terrorism, bomb disposal, VIP security and many other operations.

How NSG Came into Existence?

The National Security Guard (NSG full form) came into existence on October 22, 1984, following a terrorist attack which raised questions about India’s security. Under the National Security Guard Act 1986, the black commandos were formed with the primary mission of countering terrorism. If we trace back the history, we can infer NSG’s existence with incidents revealing attacks on the Golden Temple, Amritsar.

To combat the violence sprouting in Amritsar, Operation Blue Star was implemented in June 1984. During that time, the Indian army took charge of the situation by forcing the troops of Sikh militants inside the Golden Temple to stop the protest. To stop the protests initiated by sikh militants, mass violence and bloodshed took innocent lives. 

Following the golden temple attack and anti-sikh riots, the need for a security force was felt. NSG’s formation is also owed to the tremendous success achieved by internal counter-terrorism forces like German GSG 9 and British SAS. Since its formation, the security body proved its worth by carrying out some of the most challenging operations with victorious feats.

Stages and Parameters of Selection in NSG

To join NSG, no direct recruitment process is available; instead, candidates already working in the armed forces can apply for this security force. Well, candidates are tested based on challenging and rigorous training, and educational background is also taken into consideration for selection. Find the stages and parameters of NSG selection below.

• Educational background: This criterion may differ based on rank; for e.g, a constable or head constable must have qualified 12th. Well, for a senior post, a graduation degree in a relevant field is necessary.
• Physical Fitness and Mental Ability: Physical and mental fitness is an important parameter upon which a candidate confirms selection. They will be tested on their endurance, physical prowess, decision-making skills and resilience.
• Experience: It's perhaps an important qualifying parameter. Candidates having experience in police or armed forces can only apply for NSG recruitment as they are believed to possess the proper physique and skills to handle the function of this security wing.

Phases of Training to Become an NSG Member

As the National Security Guard (NSG full form) undertakes operations that require patience, physical endurance, presence of mind and decision-making skills; therefore, a rigorous training program is arranged. Training phases are divided into three stages, initially, pre-selection training includes physical tests, while advanced-level training is conducted during the on-the-job training period which will be discussed below.

1st phase

This is a pre-selection stage whereby candidates will be tested on their physical fitness, medical history, service rep and age criteria.

2nd Phase

• Selected candidates need to undergo 14 months of training which will be organised at the NSG training centre nestled in Manesar, Haryana.
• Out of a 14 months timeline, 3 months is devoted to imparting basic skills to the trainees.
• Physical training involves various kinds of activities and sports that include jumping from heights, target shooting and running expeditions that require candidates to cross obstacles. 

3rd phase

This is the final and challenging training phase which lasts for 9 months. Following are some of the activities a trainee undergoes

• Specialised infiltration techniques
• Demolition and disposal of bombs
• Unarmed combat techniques
• Types of shooting like mirror shooting etc
• Methods of gathering surveillance

Structural Organisation of NSG Commandos

NSG, the most powerful and responsible security force, can function efficiently with an organised leadership structure. To ensure these commandos perform their duties without fail, each of the members is given specific responsibilities. Let’s understand their specific roles and functions to gain better insight into these security personnel.

• Additional Director General: An ADG works in close association with the director general of NSG. They help coordinate with various divisions and make sure operations are conducted by adhering to strategic vision. Along With the DG, the ADGs manage the overall function of the commando force.
• Inspector General: This is another leadership position in NSG. These officers are held responsible for implementing policies by keeping legal obligations in mind. Specific departments are under their supervision. Besides framing policies, IGs play a vital role in making decisions for important operations.
• Deputy Inspector General: The DIG post is under the inspector general. These officers play a pivotal role in maintaining discipline among the commandos by adhering to the instructions of the IG. They remain in charge of the execution of operations in specific NSG units.
• Commanding Officer: Commanding officers function at the operational level. They work with a team of NSG officers to provide them with adequate training and guide them through different missions.

Top Successful Operation by NSG

NSG, the full form of which is National Security Guard, over the years, has successfully taken charge of critical situations and tackled them with heroic spirit. Let's discover some of the top operations of NSG.

Operation Black Thunder

On the fateful day of April 1986, the complex of Golden Temple was attacked by terrorists. Operation Black Thunder succeeded in expelling extremists and anti-social activists by adequately taking care of the safety of the masses who were present on the temple premises.

Operation Vajra Shakti

Two terrorists entered the sacred Akshardham temple situated in Gandhinagar, Gujarat on September 24, 2002. Indiscriminately, bullets were fired at 30 innocent people; however, NSG took effective charge of the situation by shooting the terrorist on the spot and evacuating the visitors safely.

Operation Dhangu Suraksha

A troop of Pakistan-based terrorists wanted to destroy strategic assets stored in an Air Force Station, Pathankot on Jan 1, 2016. The operation continued for four days; the NSG officer conducted a search operation and neutralised the activities of terrorists.