The Indian Army has commissioned its 16th Bhairav Battalion at the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre in Belagavi, Karnataka, boosting its capabilities for high-mobility operations. The move highlights the Army's efforts to create mobile units for contemporary challenges in border areas and counter-insurgency operations.
The 16th Bhairav Battalion
The raising ceremony was held on April 26, 2026 (Saturday) where Brigadier Joydeep Mukherjee (also known as Joydip Mukherjee), Commandant of the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre, handed over the battalion flag to the Commanding Officer.
The battalion is part of the Maratha Light Infantry, a regiment with a rich legacy dating back to its inception. This is the 16th of the battalions, with plans to raise up to 25.
Battalion Role
Bhairav Battalions (or Bhairav Light Commando Battalions) are light, fast-moving tactical units that combine the roles of conventional infantry and Special Forces.
Consisting of 250-300 handpicked soldiers, they are trained in rapid response, reconnaissance, preemptive strikes, high-intensity combat, maneuverability, and precision strikes, primarily in mountainous and border regions, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism.
They feature multi-disciplinary skills from infantry, artillery, air defense, and signals units, and include drone-based surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting.
Objectives of the Event
The first Bhairav Battalion was raised in 2025 (with official announcement in July), with 15 battalions in operation by early 2026, deployed in border areas including deserts. They made their public debut at the 77th Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, showcasing the Army's preparedness in the context of lessons from world wars.
This is a move to enhance combat capabilities to counter emerging threats while retaining the salience of the light infantry, a statement from the Defence Ministry highlighted.
They alleviate Para SF's load by offering options for "fight tonight" in high-threat border areas with China and Pakistan. With over one lakh personnel trained in drone operations, India is leading the world in tech-based warfare. This is part of the Army's emphasis on multi-domain approach, readiness and capability enhancement.
