Factual
Discovery Channel reveals what it takes To Be in the Indian Army’s Premier Strike Force
New Delhi: Discovery Channel puts the audience through the toughest training of the Indian Army. The ‘Paratrooper Special Forces Operatives’ are amongst the sharpest and the deadliest soldiers who have earned an enviable niche in the Army. An average 10 per cent of the volunteers make it to this elite group, classifying it as one of the toughest military selection courses in the world.
On the occasion of India’s 70th Independence Day, Discovery Channel’s exclusive INDIA’S PARATROOPERS: EARNING THE BADGE will give viewers a rare peek into the Indian Army’s training academy to reveal the intense training programs these soldiers undergo to perform unconventional warfare roles. Preparing for the unpredictable world of covert operations, counterterrorism, frontline combat and law enforcement, only the fastest, strongest and smartest survive. Watch the awe-inspiring story of courage and commitment in India’s Paratroopers: Earning the Badge on Monday, August 15 at 9 pm on the Discovery Channel. The programme will simulcast on Discovery Tamil.
Known as Paratrooper Special Forces, these operatives wear the Maroon Beret and pin to their chest ‘The Balidaan Badge’ – the winged blade of sacrifice. To earn this distinguished honour, the volunteers complete a grueling 90 days’ probation wherein they are stretched to the limit of their endurance. Discovery Channel will give viewers a never-before-seen glimpse of a training module where only the bravest succeed to achieve the prestigious badge.
Bonded by their heroic commitment, the probationers transition through an extreme selection process and a rigorous training regime. Not tasks for the fainthearted, the recruits are put through a series of punishing physical and mental routines including wading through chilling waters, sleep deprivation, exhaustion, uphill and downhill speed march, and the ultimate non-stop 100 KM endurance run. Focusing heavily on physical fitness and psychological strength, the combat training encompasses specialization in weaponry, demolition, navigation, evasion, survival, communication, medical, language and unconventional warfare.
Learn what it takes to meet the exceptional standards of the most specialized forces in the world.
MUMBAI: India’s most famous hot seat is about to welcome an unlikely first-timer. For the first time on Hindi general entertainment television, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla will appear on Kaun Banega Crorepati, the iconic quiz show hosted by Amitabh Bachchan.
The special episode marks a rare meeting point of boardroom heft and prime-time television, bringing one of India’s most influential business leaders face to face with the country’s most enduring screen legend. It is a crossover that blends intellect, leadership and popular culture, all under KBC’s familiar spotlight.
Birla’s appearance dovetails neatly with the show’s current theme, Jahaan Akal Hai, Wahan Akad Hai, which celebrates the confidence that comes from clarity of thought and knowledge. His presence lends weight to the idea that sharp thinking and conviction are as vital in life as they are in the quiz chair.
In a thoughtful conversation with Bachchan, Birla shared an upbeat view of India’s economic journey, pointing to the nation’s rapid growth and the scale of opportunity opening up across industries and communities. He spoke of momentum, ambition and a future shaped by enterprise and ideas.
The episode is not all serious talk. In lighter moments, Birla confessed his long-standing admiration for Bachchan, calling him his favourite actor and admitting to a touch of nervousness at answering questions in front of the Shahenshah himself. The candour adds a human touch to a man more often seen in headlines than on television sets.
The special episode airs on Monday, 29 December at 9.00 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
