Neither SPG nor NSG...these special guards protect the President of the country, and know how they are recruited
The 250-year-old most special unit of the Indian Army, 'President's Bodyguard', is deployed at all times for the security of the President of the country.
Be it Republic Day or any special ceremony in Rashtrapati Bhavan, you must have seen very well-dressed and imposing soldiers standing next to the President. These are not ordinary soldiers, but they are called President's Bodyguard (PBG). This is the oldest and most glorious unit of the Indian Army, which is deployed for the security of the country's highest civilian President.
Who are the PBG soldiers?
The main task of the President's Bodyguard Unit is to protect the President and stay with him every moment. These soldiers are not only counted among the most fit and disciplined soldiers of the country, but their height and training are also very special. The height of PBG soldiers must be at least 6 feet. Even today, this unit gives preference to soldiers from Jat, Sikh and Rajput castes, who mainly come from Haryana, Punjab and Rajasthan.
How old is this unit?
PBG was established in 1773 during the time of the East India Company. At that time it was formed by Governor General Warren Hastings. Initially, 50 Mughal troops were included in it, which later increased to 100 with the help of Raja Chait Singh of Banaras. The country became independent, the British left, but this unit is still in the service of the President. Earlier it used to protect the Viceroy, now it is the President's bodyguard.
Selection process and training
It is a matter of pride for any soldier to join the PBG. But recruitment in it is not easy. Selected soldiers are given 2 years of special training, in which they are made proficient in every aspect of swordsmanship, para trooping, horse riding and physical fitness. At the end of this training, the soldiers present their swords to their commandant – a tradition that symbolizes that their lives and weapons are now dedicated to the service of the nation.
Special relationship with horses
Another special thing about PBG is their horses. This unit is the only unit of the Indian Army that still practices traditional horsemanship. The soldiers are so adept at horse riding that they can ride a horse at a speed of 50 km per hour without a rein. They start their morning by practicing with horses.
What do these soldiers wear?
Their uniform is also very special. The shiny red and golden dress, the turban on the head, and the sword in the hand all make them more impressive than any film scene. Every time they are seen in the Republic Day parade, people are mesmerized by seeing them.
