To mark the successful completion of training for Air Force Special Forces operatives of the ‘Garud’ force, the Maroon Beret Ceremonial Parade was held on 23 May 2026 at the Garud Regimental Training Centre (GRTC), Air Force Station Chandinagar. Air Vice Marshal Rahul Gupta, ACAS Ops (Space), reviewed the parade as the Chief Guest.
The Commandant of the Garud Regimental Training Centre received the Chief Guest and briefed him on various aspects of training. The Chief Guest congratulated the newly inducted ‘Garuds’ on completing their rigorous training and emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards of Special Forces skills in line with the evolving security environment.
During the ceremony, the Chief Guest presented the Maroon Beret, Garud Proficiency Badge, and Special Forces Tabs to the successful trainees and awarded trophies to meritorious performers.
As part of the passing-out ceremony, the ‘Garuds’ demonstrated a range of operational skills, including combat firing, hostage rescue, firing drills, assault, explosives handling, obstacle crossing, wall climbing, slithering, rappelling, and military martial arts.
The Maroon Beret Ceremonial Parade represents a significant milestone of pride and achievement for the trainees, marking the culmination of an intensive training programme and their transition into Young Special Forces operators of the elite Garud force.
Considering the role of the Indian Air Force Special Forces in Operation Sindoor, the newly inducted operators are expected to further enhance the capability of the force to undertake emerging and specialised mission requirements
