-Khirabdhi Tanaya Gour

In the heart of the Indian Army’s infantry battalions lies a group of men who live by the mantra: “First In, Last Out.” These are the Ghatak Platoons—elite assault units designed to break through enemy lines, lead the charge in offensive operations, and operate deep behind enemy territory. Known for their agility, endurance, and unshakable nerve, Ghataks are among the most lethal and feared soldiers on the subcontinent.

Origins and Evolution

The word Ghatak (घातक) is Sanskrit for “lethal” or “killer,” which aptly describes the role and mindset of these troops. Ghatak Platoons were institutionalized after the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak Wars when the need for agile, specialized assault teams within conventional infantry battalions became apparent.

These units are now a standard component of every infantry battalion in the Indian Army. Each battalion maintains one Ghatak Platoon—typically made up of 20 to 30 soldiers, including a commanding officer (usually a captain or major), 2 JCOs, and handpicked volunteers from the battalion.

Role and Responsibilities

Ghatak Platoons function as shock troops or spearhead elements in both offensive and defensive operations. Their primary roles include:

• Leading assaults on enemy bunkers, outposts, and high-value targets
  
  
• Conducting deep reconnaissance and sabotage missions
  
  
• Operating in forward and high-risk zones during wartime
  
  
• Executing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations
  
  
• Assisting special forces in joint operations when needed
  
  

Their training and equipment allow them to operate independently or in coordination with larger battalion or brigade-level maneuvers.

Specialized Training

To become a Ghatak, a soldier must undergo rigorous selection and training. Those selected are sent to elite training institutions, including:

• Commando School, Belgaum
  
  
• Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS), Vairengte
  
  
• High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), Gulmarg
  
  
• Parachute Training School, Agra (optional for jump-qualified Ghataks)
  
  

Training includes:

• Close Quarter Battle (CQB)
  
  
• Demolitions and sabotage
  
  
• Guerrilla and jungle warfare
  
  
• Mountain and high-altitude operations
  
  
• Tactical surveillance and reconnaissance
  
  
• Unarmed combat and survival skills
  
  

Many Ghatak Platoons are also trained by or operate alongside Indian Special Forces, including the Para SF and MARCOS, depending on mission requirements.

Gear and Weaponry

Ghatak units are equipped with superior gear compared to regular infantry units:

• Primary Weapons: INSAS, AK-47 variants, Tavor rifles
  
  
• Sidearms: Glock 17, Browning Hi-Power
  
  
• Support Weapons: Light Machine Guns (LMGs), Carl Gustav rocket launchers, under-barrel grenade launchers
  
  
• Special Equipment: Night vision goggles, bulletproof vests, climbing gear, radio communication sets
  
  

Ghatak Platoons in War and Combat Operations

Kargil War (1999)

Ghatak Platoons played a crucial role in recapturing key peaks from entrenched Pakistani positions. These units led many uphill assaults in Operation Vijay, including the fierce battles of Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Khalubar. Their ability to operate in high-altitude, low-oxygen environments earned them widespread recognition.

Uri and Surgical Strikes (2016)

While Para SF conducted the cross-border surgical strikes, Ghatak Platoons provided crucial support in logistics, reconnaissance, and base security. Their expertise in terrain navigation was vital for mission planning.

Counter-Insurgency in Kashmir and Northeast

Ghataks have been at the forefront of anti-terror and insurgency operations in Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, and Assam. Their agility and speed allow them to pursue and neutralize militants in dense forest, mountainous regions, and urban hideouts.

Notable Officers from Ghatak Platoons

Captain Vikram Batra, PVC

Though best known for his bravery during the Kargil War, Captain Batra commanded a Ghatak Platoon of the 13 JAK RIF. He led from the front in the capture of Point 5140 and Point 4875, with his war cry “Yeh Dil Maange More!” becoming legendary.

Major Padmapani Acharya, MVC

Also from the Kargil War, he led his Ghatak Platoon of the 2nd Battalion, Rajputana Rifles, in recapturing Tololing. Mortally wounded, he continued directing his men until the objective was secured.

Lt Col. Santosh Babu, MVC (Posthumous)

While not exclusively a Ghatak officer, Lt Col. Babu’s infantry experience included command of Ghatak troops. His leadership during the 2020 Galwan Valley skirmish earned national reverence.

Life of a Ghatak: Brotherhood, Sacrifice, and Pride

Serving in a Ghatak Platoon is not just about skill—it’s about mentality. These men operate in extreme environments, often with limited backup, facing odds that would cripple lesser units. Their camaraderie is forged in sweat, blood, and shared purpose.

Despite their valour, Ghataks rarely receive the media spotlight. Their missions are shadowed in operational secrecy. Recognition comes not through headlines, but in the eyes of their fellow soldiers who trust them with their lives.

Conclusion: Silent Heroes, Supreme Warriors

The Indian Army’s strength lies not only in its numbers or firepower but in the indomitable spirit of units like the Ghatak Platoons. Whether storming icy peaks in Kargil or pursuing insurgents in dense jungles, these shock troops embody the courage, resilience, and precision that define modern warfare.

They don’t just follow orders—they lead the charge.

They don’t wait for battle—they create victories.

They are not just warriors—they are Ghataks.