Defence Institutions
Ministries, commands, forces and organisations of India’s defence and internal-security architecture.
Andaman & Nicobar Command
India's first tri-service theatre-level command, established in 2001 at Port Blair.
Assam Rifles
India's oldest paramilitary force, with origins in 1835, guarding the India–Myanmar border and operating in the North-East; administered by the Ministry of Home Affairs with operational control by the Army.
Border Security Force (BSF)
The CAPF, raised in 1965 under the Ministry of Home Affairs, guarding India's borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
The CAPF, raised in 1969, securing critical infrastructure including airports, nuclear and space installations, and public-sector undertakings.
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
The largest CAPF, tracing its origins to 1939, deployed for internal security and counter-insurgency duties under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO)
The research and development arm of the Ministry of Defence, established in 1958, developing weapons, sensors and platforms for the Armed Forces.
Indian Coast Guard
An armed force under the Ministry of Defence responsible for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and protection of India's maritime zones; established in 1978.
Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff
The tri-service staff organisation supporting the Chief of Defence Staff in jointness, integration and planning across the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)
The CAPF, raised in 1962, guarding the India–China border along the Himalayan frontier.
Ministry of Defence
The Government of India ministry responsible for defence policy and the Armed Forces. Its departments include Defence, Defence Production, Defence Research & Development, Ex-Servicemen Welfare, and Military Affairs.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
The specialist disaster-response force constituted under the Disaster Management Act, operational since 2006.
National Security Guard (NSG)
The counter-terrorism contingency force raised in 1984 under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)
The CAPF guarding the India–Nepal and India–Bhutan borders, raised in 1963.
Strategic Forces Command
The command, established in 2003, that manages and administers India's strategic forces under the Nuclear Command Authority.