Can an X-Group Airman Become a Garud Commando?
Can an X-Group Airman Become a Garud Commando?
The question of whether an X-Group Airman can become a Garud Commando is one that often arises among aspiring military aviators. The answer is yes, but with certain conditions and steps to be followed. Let's explore the path that an X-Group Airman might take to become part of the Garud Commando Force.
Joining the Air Force: The First Step
First and foremost, one must join the Air Force, regardless of the initial rank. The Air Force is the foundation upon which an aspiring Garud Commando must stand. By joining the Air Force, an individual gains access to the necessary training and resourcesRequired for commando-level duties.
Clearing the Aptitude Test and Physical Standards
Once an individual has successfully joined the Air Force, they will have to meet the stringent aptitude test and physical standards required for the Garud Commando role. These standards are designed to ensure that only the most capable and physically fit candidates are selected. Joining the Air Force also provides the opportunity to demonstrate leadership, discipline, and the necessary skills.
The Path to Garud Commando
Agniveer, a term used to describe army recruits, will retain this status until completion of four years. A selection into a regular force position within or outside the armed forces will offer potential for becoming a Garud Commando. However, this is highly dependent on performance and selection procedures.
Direct Recruitment and Group Designations
Currently, recruitment into the Garud Commando Force is direct. This means that individuals can apply directly to become part of the Garud Commando Force. It is important to understand the distinction between Group X and Group Y in the Indian Air Force. Group X is typically technical in nature, while Garud Commandos are part of Group Y, which is non-technical.
For X-Group Airmen specifically, after joining for training as a technician, it is unlikely that they would be allowed to re-branch to a non-technical role like Garud. This highlights the importance of choosing the correct group at the outset and the challenges faced by X-Group members in trying to transition to Garud Commando roles.
Challenges and Obstacles
The Garud Commando selection process is not a volunteer selection like certain other special forces, such as the Para SF (Parachute Special Force) or Marcos (Marathas). This means that candidates are not directly volunteering to join the elite unit; rather, they must excel in the standard training and selection process.
Moreover, from Group X, which consists primarily of technical streams, it is not possible to rebranch as Garud, as Garud remains in the same Group X. Since Garud commandos are recruited diretly from civil jobs, the option of voluntary selection is not available from any group within the Indian Air Force.
Conclusion
In summary, while an X-Group Airman can indeed become a Garud Commando, this journey is fraught with specific challenges and requirements. From joining the Air Force through the rigorous selection and training process, it is clear that only the best of the best can ultimately make the transition to this elite unit.