Maharashtra steps up commando training

Pune, June 6 (ANI): The second phase of training for commandoes, similar to that imparted to the elite National Security Guards, commenced here.

Force 1, the new battalion for combating militancy, will be stationed at strategic locations like Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur after it becomes operational in October this year.

"Once they get trained, the idea is to place them in strategic locations so that they can reach any terrorist attack place in few hours," said Jayant Patil, State Home Minister.

The training programme will keep on changing to enable the personnel to meet newer challenges.

India says last November's assault on Mumbai, in which 166 people were killed, was carried out by Pakistan-based militants with suspected backing from some official Pakistani agencies. (ANI)