Gadkari Salutes NSG Black Cats on Raising Day
Synopsis
On NSG Raising Day, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari saluted the National Security Guard's 'Black Cats' for their courage and commitment to counter-terrorism, extending wishes to all personnel and their families.
Key Takeaways
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari posted a tribute on NSG Raising Day , honouring the National Security Guard's personnel and their families.
The NSG , known as the 'Black Cats,' was established in 1986 as India's specialised federal counter-terrorism and hostage rescue force.
Gadkari praised the force's 'unparalleled courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication' to national security.
Indian political leaders across parties routinely issue public tributes on Raising Days of central armed police and special forces.
The tribute acknowledged not just serving personnel but also their families, recognising the broader human cost of elite security service.
Every year, on the day India's most elite counter-terrorism unit marks another year of service, the nation pauses to acknowledge the men and women who stand ready where ordinary law enforcement cannot. On NSG Raising Day, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari paid tribute to the National Security Guard, saluting what he called their 'unparalleled courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication.'
The Black Cats: Four Decades of Standing Between India and Terror
The National Security Guard was established in 1986 as a specialised federal counter-terrorism force, purpose-built for hostage rescue, counter-hijacking, and high-risk strike operations that demand speed, precision, and nerve. Their distinctive black uniform and balaclava earned them the 'Black Cats' moniker that has become inseparable from their identity in the Indian security landscape.
Gadkari's post captured the sentiment directly: 'Their selfless service and supreme commitment to national security inspire every Indian.' The tribute extended beyond personnel to their families — an acknowledgment of the quiet sacrifice behind every deployment.
Why Raising Day Tributes Matter in India's Security Discourse
Across India's political spectrum, Raising Day tributes to central armed police forces and special units have become a fixture of public life — a moment when civilian leadership visibly affirms the legitimacy and importance of institutions that operate largely in the shadows. For the NSG, whose operations have at times shaped the course of national crises, that acknowledgment carries particular weight.
The force's mandate sits at the sharpest end of internal security, making its annual commemoration more than ceremonial. It is a reminder that the architecture of counter-terrorism depends on sustained institutional commitment — from both the forces themselves and the government they serve.
Point of View
Whose portfolio sits outside the security establishment, the gesture underlines a broader BJP governance philosophy of visible solidarity with the armed forces. Such tributes also signal to the NSG's rank and file that their work — often conducted away from public view — registers at the highest levels of government. The consistency of this practice across administrations suggests it has become an entrenched norm of Indian political culture.
NationPress
16 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NSG Raising Day and when is it celebrated?
NSG Raising Day marks the founding anniversary of the National Security Guard, India's elite counter-terrorism force established in 1986. It is observed annually to honour the force's personnel and their contributions to national security.
Why are NSG personnel called Black Cats?
NSG commandos are popularly called 'Black Cats' because of their distinctive all-black uniforms and balaclavas worn during operations, which have become iconic symbols of the force.
What does the NSG do in India?
The National Security Guard is India's specialised federal force for counter-terrorism operations, including hostage rescue, counter-hijacking, and high-risk strike missions that go beyond the capacity of regular police forces.
Why did Nitin Gadkari post about NSG Raising Day?
As a senior Union Minister and BJP leader, Nitin Gadkari issued a tribute on NSG Raising Day to honour the force's courage and commitment — a practice common among Indian political leaders on the Raising Days of central armed police and special forces.
When was the National Security Guard established?
The National Security Guard was established in 1986 as a specialised federal counter-terrorism force under the Indian government.
