Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands – In a significant step aimed at strengthening law enforcement capabilities in the strategic Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police is undertaking a comprehensive initiative to expand and modernize its commando unit. Officials from the police department have confirmed that the initiative is designed to enhance combat readiness, operational efficiency, and tactical capabilities of the force, both on land and at sea, particularly under adverse conditions and in challenging terrain. The move reflects the heightened strategic importance of the archipelago, given its proximity to key maritime routes and sensitive coastal zones.

Currently, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police commando unit comprises 121 highly trained personnel. However, the administration has decided to further strengthen the unit in order to ensure that the force is capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats, natural disasters, and other operational exigencies. The expansion and modernization effort is part of a broader strategy to make the islands’ police infrastructure self-reliant and equipped to handle complex operational scenarios independently, without depending on mainland resources.

A significant milestone in this endeavor was recently marked with the inauguration of ten newly constructed commando obstacles at the Police Training School located in Prothrapur. The event was officiated by Director General of Police HGS Dhaliwal, who emphasized the critical importance of developing local, advanced training infrastructure for the commando unit. According to Dhaliwal, the islands’ unique geographical and strategic challenges necessitate a highly trained, agile, and versatile commando force capable of operating under diverse conditions, ranging from dense forested areas to coastal environments. The inauguration of these obstacles is intended to provide personnel with realistic, scenario-based training that mirrors operational conditions they are likely to encounter in the field.

“Realizing the strategic importance of the islands, an advanced commando training unit is much needed here,” DGP Dhaliwal said during the inauguration ceremony. He added that the newly constructed obstacle facilities would not only reduce dependency on the mainland for specialized training but also ensure that recruits and in-service personnel are physically, mentally, and tactically prepared to meet the demands of challenging operational conditions. Previously, personnel had to be sent to the mainland for commando obstacle training, which involved logistical challenges and limited exposure to terrain-specific scenarios. The development of these facilities within the islands marks a transformative step in building self-sufficient, world-class training capabilities for the local police force.

The new obstacles are designed to enhance several core competencies, including physical endurance, agility, tactical decision-making, situational awareness, and operational preparedness. These skills are essential for personnel tasked with responding to a wide range of scenarios, from counter-insurgency operations and maritime security missions to disaster response and emergency management. The training infrastructure has been developed to provide realistic and scenario-based exercises that simulate operational pressures, enabling personnel to develop quick decision-making abilities, teamwork, and resilience under high-stress conditions. By incorporating these elements, the training program aims to produce commandos who are adaptable, highly skilled, and ready to tackle real-world operational challenges effectively.

The initiative is also expected to benefit both newly recruited constables and in-service personnel. New recruits will gain hands-on exposure to challenging operational scenarios from the outset of their careers, while existing personnel will have opportunities for skill enhancement and refresher training. According to officials, this dual approach ensures continuous improvement in the overall capabilities of the commando unit and fosters a culture of operational excellence within the force.

In addition to the obstacle facilities, DGP Dhaliwal also highlighted plans to eventually establish a women commando unit within the Andaman and Nicobar Police. While such a unit does not currently exist, officials have indicated that the department envisions creating a cadre of trained women commandos in the future. The inclusion of women in commando training programs aligns with broader national trends in law enforcement and defense services, where female personnel are increasingly being integrated into specialized units to strengthen operational diversity and capability. The eventual establishment of a women commando unit is expected to enhance the inclusivity, effectiveness, and operational versatility of the force, allowing the department to respond to a wider range of security and emergency scenarios.

Currently, the Andaman and Nicobar Police has 14 drill instructors trained in commando courses who oversee the training of personnel. These instructors are responsible for guiding recruits and in-service personnel through the newly constructed obstacle courses and scenario-based exercises, ensuring that the training is aligned with operational requirements and safety standards. At present, around 30 recruits of the 75th batch are undergoing basic training, which now includes access to the upgraded commando obstacles. This comprehensive approach to training ensures that new recruits are not only physically fit but also equipped with tactical skills, decision-making capabilities, and situational awareness required to operate in complex environments.

The development of the commando obstacles and associated training infrastructure represents a broader effort by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police to enhance the overall combat readiness and operational efficiency of the force. The strategic location of the islands, situated near major maritime routes and in proximity to sensitive border areas, necessitates a police force that is capable of responding rapidly and effectively to security threats, natural disasters, and other emergencies. By strengthening the commando unit, the police are ensuring that the islands are better equipped to safeguard their territory, maintain law and order, and protect both residents and critical infrastructure.

The initiative also reflects an understanding of the importance of locally tailored training programs. Unlike mainland India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands present unique challenges in terms of terrain, weather, and accessibility. The newly constructed commando obstacles have been designed to replicate these conditions as closely as possible, allowing personnel to train under realistic scenarios that mimic the operational challenges they will face in the field. This localized approach to training ensures that commandos are not only physically fit but also capable of making tactical decisions under pressure, navigating difficult terrain, and responding effectively to emergencies.

Officials have emphasized that the newly developed commando training facilities will serve multiple purposes beyond traditional policing. The training program is designed to prepare personnel for disaster response operations, such as floods, cyclones, and other natural calamities, which are a frequent occurrence in the islands. Additionally, the facilities will enable personnel to respond to law and order challenges, including crowd control, counter-terrorism, and maritime security operations. By providing a holistic training environment, the police aim to cultivate a highly skilled, adaptable, and resilient force capable of protecting the islands under all circumstances.

In conclusion, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police’s focus on strengthening the commando unit and expanding training infrastructure is a forward-looking initiative aimed at ensuring operational readiness, tactical proficiency, and resilience in the face of emerging challenges. The inauguration of ten new commando obstacles at Prothrapur marks a milestone in the department’s efforts to create a modern, self-sufficient training environment. With plans to expand the commando unit further, incorporate women commandos, and provide scenario-based, localized training, the islands are positioning themselves to maintain a highly capable, versatile, and prepared police force. This initiative not only enhances the overall security posture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but also ensures that personnel are equipped to meet the complex demands of modern policing, disaster response, and emergency management, reflecting a comprehensive approach to strengthening law enforcement and safeguarding the strategic interests of the archipelago.

The development underscores the commitment of the Andaman and Nicobar Police to professional excellence, inclusivity, and preparedness, ensuring that the force remains capable of protecting residents, infrastructure, and strategic assets, while fostering confidence in public safety across the islands.