“NSG Has Blown Up Every Terror Threat to India”: Amit Shah Salutes Black Cats

The National Security Guard (NSG), India’s elite counter-terrorism force popularly known as the Black Cats, marked its 42nd Raising Day on Friday, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari praising its personnel for their courage and commitment to national security.

“Raising Day greetings to the warriors of the National Security Guard. The NSG Black Cats have blown up every terror threat to India with the fury of the storms and guarded the nation with steely courage, flawless professionalism and valiant sacrifices. Salute to the martyrs of the force,” Shah wrote on X.

Gadkari also saluted the commandos for their dedication to the fight against terrorism, while Adityanath highlighted the force’s role in protecting citizens through discipline and professionalism. The Indian Army also extended greetings to NSG personnel, veterans and their families.

From Akshardham to 26/11

Established in 1986, the NSG is a federal contingency force deployed in exceptional situations involving serious security threats. Its specialised roles include counter-terrorism, hostage rescue and responding to hijacking threats.

Among its major operations was Operation Vajra Shakti in September 2002, when NSG commandos were deployed following the terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple complex in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

The force’s most prominent deployment came during the November 2008 Mumbai attacks. Under Operation Black Tornado, NSG commandos fought terrorists and rescued hostages at multiple locations, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the Oberoi-Trident hotel complex and Nariman House. The operation lasted several days and became a defining moment in the force’s history.

The NSG has also been deployed in counter-terrorism operations and security responses requiring specialised intervention. Its personnel undergo intensive training for high-risk missions involving armed terrorists and hostage situations.

A Specialised Force

The NSG was created to deal with specific and exceptional security challenges that require capabilities beyond those of conventional policing. Its Raising Day recognises the force’s service and the sacrifices of personnel deployed in high-risk operations.

With inputs from ANI