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Power Hitter Ishan Kishan Joins Forces with Ai+ Smartphone

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EBNW Story
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 Ai+ Smartphone today announced an exclusive brand alliance with cricketer Ishan Kishan, bringing together a brand that refuses to compromise on technology with a player who has built his career by refusing to play within limits set by others.

The association reflects a shared belief between the brand and the cricketer: that ambition should never be restricted by access. Ai+ Smartphone has built its identity around delivering modern technology with unbeatable performance and thoughtful design, without placing it behind a premium price barrier.

Commenting on the collaboration, Madhav Sheth, CEO of Ai+ Smartphone and Founder of NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said:

“Ishan Kishan represents something that resonates deeply with what Ai+ Smartphone stands for. He didn’t wait for permission to back himself. He showed up, played his game, and earned his place on his own terms. That is the spirit we build for — people moving forward with purpose and expecting the technology in their hands to keep up. Bringing Ishan on board reflects the kind of brand we are becoming as we prepare for the next phase of our journey with the Nova Series launching soon.”

Through the collaboration, Ishan Kishan will feature across Ai+ Smartphone’s campaigns and brand initiatives in the coming months. Fans can also expect exclusive behind-the-scenes cricket content and brand moments created using Ai+ Smartphone devices, as the company prepares to introduce its upcoming Nova Series, the next step in its product journey.

The alliance brings together a brand and a cricketer connected by the same idea — that ambition should never have to compromise.

Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system.

Remembering Kalpana Chawla: India’s Daughter Who Touched the Stars

By
Kanan Rathore
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On her birth anniversary, we remember Kalpana Chawla, a pioneering astronaut who became a global symbol of determination, excellence, and the limitless power of dreams. As the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space, her life continues to inspire generations across the world.

Early Life and Roots in India

Kalpana Chawla was born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, in Haryana. Growing up in a modest family, she developed a fascination for aircraft and the night sky at a very young age. She pursued a degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, one of the few women in her field at the time. Determined to follow her passion, she later moved to the United States for higher studies, earning a Master’s degree from the University of Texas and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado.

Journey with NASA and Space Missions

Kalpana Chawla joined NASA in 1988 and was selected as an astronaut in 1994. Her first space mission was STS-87 aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997. During this mission, she operated robotic arms and conducted experiments related to microgravity, contributing significantly to space research.

Her second mission, STS-107 in 2003, was a dedicated scientific research mission. The crew conducted over 80 experiments in areas such as life sciences, material science, and atmospheric studies, making it one of the most research-intensive space missions.

The Columbia Tragedy and a Lasting Legacy

On February 1, 2003, tragedy struck when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, leading to the loss of all seven astronauts on board. The accident shocked the world, but Kalpana Chawla’s legacy as a fearless explorer and scientist only grew stronger.

Why She Is Remembered

Kalpana Chawla is remembered not only for her scientific contributions but also for breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. She showed that geography and background are no limits to ambition. Her journey from a small town in India to space remains one of the most powerful stories of perseverance.

Today, several institutions, scholarships, and awards in India and abroad bear her name. On her birth anniversary, she is celebrated as a role model for youth, especially women in STEM, reminding us to dream big and pursue those dreams with courage and dedication.

Global Institutions in Focus: How World Organisations Like UN, NATO and EU Shape Peace, Power and Cooperation

By
Kanan Rathore
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Recent geopolitical tensions in West Asia involving countries like Iran and the United States have once again highlighted a critical question: Where do global organisations stand in times of crisis? While their responses may sometimes appear cautious, these institutions remain the backbone of international cooperation, diplomacy, and conflict management.

Why Were Global Organisations Created?

Most major international organisations were formed after the devastation of World War II to prevent future conflicts, promote economic stability, and encourage dialogue between nations. Over time, their roles have expanded to include security, trade, health, development, and environmental governance.

Major Global Organisations and Their Roles

1. United Nations (UN)

Founded: 1945

Members: 193 countries

Purpose: Peacekeeping, human rights, humanitarian aid

The UN remains the most universal global body, with agencies like WHO, UNESCO, and UNICEF working across sectors. However, its Security Council often faces criticism due to veto powers held by permanent members.

2. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

Founded: 1949

Members: 30+ countries

Purpose: Collective defence

NATO ensures military cooperation among Western nations and has played a central role in European security, especially in the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

3. European Union (EU)

Founded: 1993

Members: 27 countries

Purpose: Economic and political integration

The EU acts as a powerful economic bloc, often imposing sanctions and providing humanitarian aid during conflicts.

4. Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

Founded: 1969

Members: 57 countries

Purpose: Represent Muslim-majority nations

OIC plays a diplomatic role in issues concerning the Islamic world, particularly in West Asian geopolitics.

5. BRICS

Founded: 2009

Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (expanded group)

Purpose: Economic cooperation among emerging economies

BRICS is increasingly seen as a counterbalance to Western-led global institutions.

6. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

Founded: 2001

Members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations

Purpose: Regional security and cooperation

SCO focuses on counter-terrorism, regional stability, and economic ties in Asia.

7. World Trade Organization (WTO)

Founded: 1995

Members: 160+ countries

Purpose: Regulate global trade

The WTO ensures fair trade practices and resolves disputes between nations, playing a key role in global economic stability.

8. International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Founded: 1944

Members: 190+ countries

Purpose: Financial stability and crisis support

IMF provides financial assistance and policy advice to countries facing economic crises.

9. World Bank

Founded: 1944

Members: 180+ countries

Purpose: Development and poverty reduction

The World Bank funds infrastructure and development projects, especially in developing nations.

10. G20

Founded: 1999

Members: 19 countries + EU

Purpose: Global economic coordination

The G20 brings together major economies to discuss global financial stability, climate change, and development.

11. Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Founded: 1967

Members: 10 Southeast Asian countries

Purpose: Regional cooperation and economic growth

ASEAN promotes stability and trade in Southeast Asia.

12. African Union (AU)

Founded: 2002

Members: 55 African countries

Purpose: Unity and development in Africa

AU works on peacekeeping, economic integration, and political stability across the continent.

13. SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

Founded: 1985

Members: 8 South Asian countries including India

Purpose: Regional cooperation in South Asia

Though facing challenges, SAARC aims to improve economic and cultural ties in the region.

Coordination in Global Crises

These organisations collaborate through peacekeeping missions, sanctions, financial aid, trade agreements, and diplomatic negotiations. However, geopolitical rivalries and national interests often slow down unified responses, as seen in recent global conflicts.

Why They Remain Crucial Today

In today’s interconnected world, global organisations are more relevant than ever. They provide:

●Platforms for dialogue and diplomacy

●Mechanisms for conflict resolution

●Economic and humanitarian support

●Coordination on global issues like climate change and pandemics

Despite limitations, they act as bridges between nations, helping maintain a balance of power and fostering cooperation.

A World That Still Needs Cooperation

As global tensions rise, the importance of these institutions becomes even more evident. Their effectiveness ultimately depends on the willingness of nations to collaborate. In a world shaped by complex challenges, global organisations remain essential—not just as institutions, but as symbols of collective responsibility and shared future.

Jewels of Mewar: A Story of Culture, Identity and Heritage

By
Kanan Rathore
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How Ornamentation Became an Integral Part of Life in Rajasthan

In the historic land of Mewar, jewellery has long been more than a symbol of beauty. For centuries, it has represented culture, identity and heritage—woven deeply into the everyday life of the people of Rajasthan.

From royal palaces to rural households, ornaments have been worn not only for adornment but also as expressions of social identity and tradition. The glitter of gold, the sheen of silver and the sparkle of precious stones reflect the artistic and cultural richness of the region.

Jewellery in the Royal Courts

The jewellery traditions of Mewar flourished under the patronage of the Rajput rulers of Udaipur. The royal courts encouraged artisans to create elaborate ornaments using gold, pearls and precious gemstones. These ornaments were often worn during ceremonies, royal gatherings and festivals.

Jewels of Mewar: A Story of Culture, Identity and Heritage

According to historian Dr. Uttama Singh Rao, jewellery was considered a symbol of prestige and honour in Rajput society.“Ornaments were not merely decorative objects; they reflected the dignity and social standing of the family wearing them,” she explains.

A Cultural Tradition Across Communities

While royal jewellery was known for its grandeur, ornaments were equally important among common households. Across villages in Mewar, women traditionally wore gold or silver jewellery as part of their daily attire.These ornaments often held symbolic meanings linked with marriage, prosperity and protection.

Jewellery as Heritage

Many families in Rajasthan continue to preserve jewellery as heirlooms passed down from one generation to another. These ornaments carry stories of weddings, festivals and family milestones.

Jewels of Mewar: A Story of Culture, Identity and Heritage

Historian Divyansh Saxena notes that jewellery in Rajasthan reflects a fascinating blend of history and culture.“Each ornament tells a story about the people, their traditions and their artistic sensibilities,” he says.

Today, despite changing fashion trends, the cultural importance of jewellery in Mewar remains strong—continuing to connect the present generation with centuries of tradition.

Two Navratris, Two Meanings: How Chaitra and Sharad Navratri Differ in Essence and Celebration

By
Kanan Rathore
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A Seasonal, Cultural and Spiritual Perspective

Navratri, the sacred festival dedicated to the worship of the Divine Goddess Durga, is celebrated multiple times a year, but the two most prominent forms are Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri. While both span nine days of devotion, fasting, and worship of the Navdurga, their meaning, timing, and cultural expressions differ significantly.

Seasonal and Natural Differences

The most fundamental difference lies in their seasonal timing.

●Chaitra Navratri occurs in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March–April), marking the arrival of spring. This season symbolises renewal, growth, and new beginnings in nature. Trees bloom, crops ripen, and the environment reflects freshness and transformation.

●Sharad Navratri, on the other hand, is celebrated in Ashwin (September–October), during autumn, when the monsoon ends and the harvest season begins. It symbolises maturity, abundance, and preparation for seasonal transition.

Chaitra Navratri aligns with creation and beginnings, while Sharad Navratri reflects culmination and victory.

Spiritual Focus and Religious Significance

Though both Navratris honour Goddess Durga and her nine forms, their spiritual focus differs.

●Chaitra Navratri is deeply connected with inner purification and new beginnings. It marks the Hindu New Year in many regions and culminates in Ram Navami, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama. This Navratri is often quieter and more introspective, with emphasis on fasting, meditation, and in many traditions, Kuldevi worship within families.

●Sharad Navratri is primarily associated with the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. It concludes with Dussehra (Vijayadashami), reinforcing themes of righteousness and victory.

In essence, Chaitra Navratri is about starting anew, while Sharad Navratri celebrates divine victory and शक्ति (power).

Cultural Celebrations and Practices

The scale and style of celebrations also differ greatly.

●Chaitra Navratri is generally more simple and spiritual, with home-based पूजा, fasting, and temple visits. It is particularly significant in North India, where people observe rituals with devotion and discipline rather than grand festivities.

●Sharad Navratri is the most widely celebrated and vibrant. It includes large-scale public festivities such as:
▪︎Garba and Dandiya in Gujarat
▪︎Durga Puja in West Bengal
▪︎Grand pandals, processions, and cultural events across India

This makes Sharad Navratri more of a community celebration, while Chaitra Navratri remains more personal and spiritual.

Regional Importance and Traditions
Regional variations further highlight their differences:

●Chaitra Navratri marks the New Year in many parts of India:

Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra)
Ugadi (South India)
Navreh (Kashmir)

●Sharad Navratri is celebrated pan-India with greater uniformity, especially in states like Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi, making it the most popular Navratri

Two Navratris, One Essence

Despite their differences, both Chaitra and Sharad Navratri are united by the same spiritual core—devotion to the Divine Feminine. One represents the beginning of life’s cycle, while the other symbolises the victory of good over evil.

Together, they beautifully reflect the rhythm of nature and human life—from renewal to fulfilment, from introspection to celebration—making Navratri not just a festival, but a timeless spiritual journey.


Chaitra Navratri 2026- Where Myth Meets Modern Wellness in the Triumph of Good Over Evil

By
Nirjala Gaud
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Chaitra Navratri is one of the most revered Hindu festivals, a nine-day celebration dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine powerful forms. Falling in the month of Chaitra (March/April), it heralds the Hindu New Year, the arrival of spring, and a profound spiritual renewal. This sacred period symbolizes the eternal victory of good over evil, rebirth, and the awakening of divine feminine energy (Shakti).

The Legendary Story Behind Chaitra Navratri

The festival’s roots lie deep in Hindu mythology. The demon king Mahishasura, blessed by Lord Brahma with near-invincibility-no man or god could defeat him-unleashed terror across the universe. In response, the gods combined their divine energies to create Goddess Durga, a supreme warrior embodying ultimate power. Durga battled Mahishasura fiercely for nine nights. On the tenth day, she vanquished him, marking the triumph of righteousness, light, and devotion over darkness and ego. This epic confrontation is why the nine nights (Navratri) honor her strength, while the tenth day-Vijayadashami or Ram Navami-celebrates victory.

Chaitra Navratri 2026- Where Myth Meets Modern Wellness in the Triumph of Good Over Evil

Each of the nine days is devoted to one of Durga’s forms, each representing unique virtues:

Day 1: Shailaputri (daughter of the mountains, symbolizing strength).Day 2: Brahmacharini (the ascetic, embodying devotion and wisdom).Day 3: Chandraghanta (wearer of the moon bell, representing courage).Day 4: Kushmanda (creator of the universe, source of light).Day 5: Skandamata (mother of Kartikeya, protector of children).Day 6: Katyayani (warrior goddess, destroyer of evil).Day 7: Kalaratri (dark night remover of fear). Day 8: Mahagauri (pure and serene, granting peace).Day 9: Siddhidatri (bestower of supernatural powers and accomplishments)This festival also ties to Lord Rama, as Ram Navami (the ninth or tenth day) commemorates his birth, linking devotion to Durga with ideals of dharma.

Chaitra Navratri 2026- Where Myth Meets Modern Wellness in the Triumph of Good Over Evil

Significance and Seasonal Connection

Chaitra Navratri marks the start of spring and the Hindu New Year in many regions, symbolizing fresh beginnings, purification, and renewal. It is a time to seek blessings for strength, prosperity, and inner peace while shedding negativity.

How Chaitra Navratri Is Celebrated

Devotees immerse themselves in devotion through: Fasting (Vrat): Many observe partial or full fasts to purify body and mind. Ghatasthapana: The festival kicks off with this key ritual on the first day-installing a sacred pot (kalash) filled with water, topped with coconut and mango leaves, symbolizing the invocation
Daily Puja and Chanting: Temples and homes fill with mantras, aarti, and offerings. Families decorate with flowers, lights, and rangoli.
Meditation and Reflection: Focus on cultivating virtues embodied by each form of Durga.

Rongali Bihu: Assam’s Vibrant Celebration of Spring, Renewal, and Cultural Joy.

By
Nirjala Gaud
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PC ( Assam Tourism, Alamy)

In the lush landscapes along the Brahmaputra River, where the scent of blooming Kopou orchids mingles with rain-kissed earth, Rongali Bihu also known as Bohag Bihu-pulses like the heartbeat of Assam. This joyous spring festival, marking the Assamese New Year in mid-April, welcomes the season of abundance, fertility, and new beginnings with rhythmic dances, soulful music, and timeless rituals.

The Seven Days of Vibrant Traditions

Rongali Bihu, often spanning seven days and called Haat Bihu, unfolds in a colorful sequence of rituals that honor nature, community, and life itself. It begins with Goru Bihu, a day dedicated to cattle-the lifeline of Assam’s agrarian society. Families lead their cows to the river, bathing them with turmeric and black gram pastes, chanting ancient rhymes, and offering pieces of bottle gourd and eggplant for health and prosperity.The next day shifts to Manuh Bihu, where people cleanse themselves, don new clothes, and pray for health and happiness in the coming year. Vibrant red-and-white Gamosa (traditional hand-woven towels) appear everywhere-symbols of respect and love exchanged among family and elders.

As the festival progresses into Kutum Bihu or Senehi Bihu, communities visit relatives and friends, sharing gifts and strengthening bonds. Women adorn their hands with Jetuka (traditional henna) for beauty and good fortune. Throughout the week, the air fills with the thump of the Dhol (drum), the piercing call of the Pepa (buffalo horn pipe), and the energetic Bihu Naas (dance). Young women in golden Muga silk Mekhela Chadors, adorned with red, yellow, green hues and Kopou phool (foxtail orchids) in their hair, perform sharp, lively movements that mimic sowing seeds and birds in flight. Feasts overflow with delights like crunchy Gila Pitha, coconut-filled Laru, and bowls of cold cream with puffed rice, turning every home into a hub of sweetness and shared joy.

Rongali Bihu: Assam's Vibrant Celebration of Spring, Renewal, and Cultural Joy.

Roots in Ancient History and Royal Patronage

Rongali Bihu traces its origins to ancient agrarian practices, possibly as far back as early fire sacrifices by Tibeto-Burman and Tai communities to ensure bountiful harvests. Over centuries, it evolved into a vibrant expression of indigenous culture. A pivotal moment came under Ahom royal patronage: In 1694, King Rudra Singha invited Bihu performers to the grand Rang Ghar amphitheater, elevating the dance from village fields to a formalized national symbol and blending it into courtly traditions. Early records, like a 1401 AD copperplate inscription from Chutia King Lakshminarayan mentioning land grants on the “holy occasion of Bihu,” highlight its deep historical significance.

A Festival That Binds and Boosts Assam

Beyond celebration, Rongali Bihu serves as a powerful force for unity and progress in modern Assam. It acts as a social equalizer, bringing together people across castes, religions, and ethnic groups-including Hindus, Muslims, and tribal communities-in shared merriment.
Economically, it fuels rural livelihoods: Demand surges for Gl-tagged Assamese Gamosa and exquisite Muga silk Mekhela Chadors, supporting handloom weavers and artisans. Markets buzz with sales of agricultural goods, traditional sweets, and musical instruments, while cultural tourism draws visitors, boosting hospitality and local economies. Rituals like Goru Bihu promote animal welfare, reinforcing the agrarian backbone. Above all, the festival preserves identity-passing down folk music, craftsmanship, language, and traditions to younger generations, ensuring Assam’s cultural heritage thrives. As the sun sets on the final day, the true color of Rongali Bihu shines through-not just in dyed silks or orchids, but in the collective joy of a community embracing spring’s promise: After every winter comes renewal, rhythm, and song.

Medieval Gajapathi Inscription Found in Guntur Temple

By
EBNW Story
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A fascinating slice of medieval history has come to light in Guntur, where a newly noticed Telugu inscription tied to the powerful Gajapathi rulers of Odisha has been found on a stone pillar at the historic Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Ramachandrapura Agraharam. The discovery sheds fresh light on the deep political, religious, and cultural ties that once linked coastal Andhra with the Odisha region during the late medieval era. Historians say such inscriptions act like time capsules, revealing how the Gajapathi empire administered distant regions while also supporting temple traditions.

A message from the time of King Purushottama Deva

Epigraphist Bishnu Mohan Adhikari reports that the inscription is carved on both sides of a stone pillar in the temple mandapa. The text mentions Kumaraguru Mahapatra, a steward serving under Gajapathi King Purushottama Deva, one of the most influential rulers of the 15th century.

This reference is significant because it confirms that the administrative network of the Gajapathi kingdom extended into parts of present-day Andhra Pradesh, demonstrating the reach and influence of the dynasty beyond Odisha.

Temple pillars with a journey through history

Local tradition adds an intriguing story to the discovery. According to temple accounts, the idol of Lord Narasimha at the Guntur temple was originally brought from Kondaveedu Fort during turbulent medieval invasions.

Temple priest Nadyala Yoganand explains that the stone pillars of the mandapa were also transported from Kondaveedu—reportedly after a divine instruction received in a dream. Interestingly, the Narasimha temple at Kondaveedu itself houses an Odia inscription from the Gajapathi rulers documenting donations made for ritual worship, suggesting a strong historical link between the two sites.

Insights into temple rituals and pastoral communities

The inscription originally belonged to a shrine dedicated to Lord Mulasthana Mallikarjuna of Kondaveedu before the structure was relocated. It contains detailed instructions for temple worship—stating that milk should be offered to the deity during evening rituals.

It also mentions that cows meant for ritual offerings must remain under the care of certain communities, such as Tammula and Ambicvaru, who may have been pastoral groups like the Koyas.

Notably, the name Kumaraguru Mahapatra appears in other inscriptions from the wider Kalinga region, including areas of today’s Ganjam and Visakhapatnam, indicating his administrative role across the Gajapathi territories.

Cultural bridge between Odisha and Andhra

Scholars note that inscriptions from Kondaveedu and Guntur together reveal the Hari–Hara tradition of worship, which blends devotion to Shiva and Vishnu. The Gajapathi rulers are known to have supported both Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions in temples across their domains.

For historians, discoveries like this are invaluable. They not only map the political reach of medieval kingdoms but also illuminate how religious practices, cultural ideas, and administrative systems connected Odisha and coastal Andhra centuries ago.

NATO Explained: Origins, Purpose and Its Role in Today’s Global Security

By
Kanan Rathore
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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is one of the most influential military alliances in the world. Formed in 1949 after the devastation of World War II, the alliance was designed to ensure collective security among Western nations and to counter the growing influence of the Soviet Union during the early years of the Cold War.

What is NATO and Why Was It Formed?

NATO was officially established on April 4, 1949, when 12 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Canada, signed the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington, D.C.

The alliance was built on the principle of collective defence, meaning that an attack on one member country would be considered an attack on all. This principle is clearly stated in Article 5 of the treaty and remains the core foundation of NATO’s military cooperation.

Expansion and Changing Role

Over the decades, NATO has expanded significantly and today includes more than 30 member countries from Europe and North America. After the Cold War ended and the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, NATO began taking on broader roles such as peacekeeping missions, humanitarian interventions, and counter-terrorism operations across different regions.

NATO and the Russia–Ukraine Conflict

NATO has become central to global discussions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Although Ukraine is not officially a NATO member, the alliance has supported the country through military assistance, training, intelligence sharing, and economic backing.

At the same time, Russia has strongly opposed NATO’s expansion towards Eastern Europe, arguing that it threatens its strategic security, which has further intensified geopolitical tensions.

Why NATO Remains Significant Today

More than seventy years after its creation, NATO continues to remain highly relevant in global geopolitics. The alliance provides a platform for collective defence, strategic coordination, and military cooperation among its members. In recent years, leaders such as Donald Trump have repeatedly urged NATO countries to strengthen their defence spending and play a greater role in collective security.

Amid ongoing conflicts and shifting global alliances, NATO remains a key pillar of the Western security framework, demonstrating how international cooperation continues to shape modern defence and diplomacy.

Elite Warriors of the World: 10 Deadliest Special Forces Units

By
Kanan Rathore
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Special forces represent the most elite segment of a country’s military. Selected from the best soldiers and subjected to extremely demanding training, these commandos are capable of performing high-risk missions such as counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, covert infiltration, and strategic reconnaissance. What makes them particularly special is their rigorous selection process, specialised training, operational secrecy, and ability to carry out complex missions with small teams in hostile environments.

Why These Units Are Considered the Most Elite

The world’s top special forces stand out because of several factors. Their training often has very low success rates, sometimes with only a small fraction of candidates completing the programme. They are trained in multiple combat environments—air, sea, land, and urban warfare—and are equipped with cutting-edge technology and intelligence support. Most importantly, these units have successfully executed historic and high-risk missions that demonstrated their strategic importance.

1. Special Air Service – United Kingdom

Founded in 1941, the SAS pioneered modern special forces tactics. Known for its motto “Who Dares Wins,” it specialises in counter-terrorism and covert operations. The SAS carried out the daring Operation Trent in Afghanistan in 2001, targeting an al-Qaeda base.

2. United States Navy SEALs – United States

The Navy SEALs operate across sea, air, and land environments. Their most famous mission was Operation Neptune Spear, which led to the elimination of Osama bin Laden in 2011.

3. Sayeret Matkal – Israel

This elite reconnaissance unit is known for intelligence-driven operations. It gained worldwide recognition during Operation Entebbe in 1976, when Israeli commandos rescued hostages from a hijacked aircraft in Uganda.

4. Shayetet 13 – Israel

Israel’s naval commando unit specialises in maritime infiltration, sabotage, and counter-terrorism missions. Its training is considered among the toughest in the world.

5. Alpha Group – Russia

Part of Russia’s security apparatus, Alpha Group handles high-risk counter-terrorism operations. It has been deployed in major crises such as the Budyonnovsk hospital hostage crisis.

6. Delta Force – United States

Officially called the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, this unit focuses on counter-terrorism and high-value target missions. Many of its operations remain classified due to their sensitive nature.

7. GIGN – France

The National Gendarmerie Intervention Group is famous for its precision in hostage rescue missions. It successfully ended the 1994 Air France hijacking in Marseille, showcasing its tactical expertise.

8. JW GROM – Poland

Formed in 1990, GROM is a highly respected NATO special operations unit that has participated in missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

9. GSG 9 – Germany

Created after the Munich Olympics massacre in 1972, GSG 9 is known for successful counter-terror operations such as Operation Feuerzauber in 1977.

10. MARCOS – India

India’s Marine Commandos are renowned for their extreme endurance training and amphibious warfare capabilities. They have taken part in anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and security operations during the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The Edge of Modern Warfare

These units demonstrate how small teams of highly trained commandos can influence major security operations. Their discipline, skill, and ability to operate in secrecy make them among the most powerful military assets in the modern world.

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