In response to a heatstroke incident that occurred during the protection of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, the National Security Guard (NSG) has decided to provide breathable uniforms for its Black Cat commandos. The decision comes after an NSG commando fainted due to exhaustion from intense heat while on duty in Vijayawada, where temperatures reached nearly 44 degrees Celsius. The commando was wearing a bullet-proof jacket and black overall uniform, carrying small arms, and working under the strong sunlight when he suffered heatstroke.
The incident has raised concerns about the physical toll that rising temperatures are taking on VIP security teams, particularly due to the absorption of considerable heat by the black overalls worn by the commandos. In light of this, a breathable material named nyco, made up of nylon and cotton, has been recommended for the black uniforms of NSG VIP security commandos. This material allows air and moisture vapour to pass through freely, helping keep the wearer cool.
The proposed new uniforms are expected to reduce the impact of heat on NSG commandos who carry heavy protective and communication equipment while guarding VIPs. The NSG has completed trials for the new clothing and plans to procure the material soon. The commandos are expected to start wearing the new uniform by the time Assembly elections in five states are announced, which include Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Manipur, and Goa, scheduled for early next year.
The NSG is a federal contingency force responsible for counter-terrorism, counter-hijacking, and VIP security duties. Its 12 and 14 Special Ranger Groups are assigned to VIP protection, with commandos joining these units from various central armed police forces. The proposed nyco uniform is aimed at improving the comfort and safety of NSG commandos during their duty, particularly in hot weather conditions.