The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has provided specialised law-and-order and crowd-control training to personnel from two Commando Battalions for Resolute Action (CoBRA) deployed in violence-hit Manipur. The elite commandos, originally trained for anti-Maoist jungle warfare, completed a month-long pre-induction programme before taking up their new responsibilities.
Additionally, the CRPF has deployed around 100 armoured vehicles to improve security operations and troop mobility. The move comes as Manipur continues to face ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Officials said the trained forces will help maintain peace, dismantle insurgent bunkers, and prevent armed groups from regrouping.
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Key Facts
- State: Manipur
- Security Force: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
- Elite Unit: CoBRA (Commando Battalions for Resolute Action)
- Deployment: May 2026
- Training: One-month law-and-order and crowd-control programme
- Additional Deployment: Around 100 armoured vehicles
- Current CAPF Presence: Around 320 companies, including nearly 200 CRPF companies
CRPF Expands CoBRA’s Role in Manipur
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has assigned a new role to its elite Commando Battalions for Resolute Action (CoBRA) by deploying two battalions in violence-affected Manipur. Before deployment, the commandos completed specialised training in crowd management, law-and-order duties, and conflict response.
Previously, CoBRA units focused mainly on anti-Maoist jungle warfare operations. However, the changing security situation in the country has led the CRPF to expand the commandos’ operational responsibilities.
Month-Long Training Before Deployment
Officials said the CoBRA personnel underwent a month-long pre-induction programme to prepare for the complex law-and-order challenges in Manipur.
The training covered crowd-control techniques, riot management, coordination with civil authorities, and standard operating procedures. Furthermore, the CRPF instructed the personnel to avoid unplanned movements and work closely with the Manipur Police and the Indian Army during operations.
Redeployed After Anti-Maoist Success
The two CoBRA battalions arrived in Manipur in May 2026 after being redeployed from anti-Maoist operations.
Earlier, the Centre announced in March 2026 that India had become Naxal-free, allowing elite CoBRA units to shift their focus toward other internal security challenges. Consequently, the commandos have now been assigned to assist in restoring peace in Manipur.
CRPF Deploys 100 Armoured Vehicles
To strengthen security operations, the CRPF has deployed around 100 armoured vehicles across sensitive areas of Manipur.
According to officials, the vehicles will improve troop mobility, support rapid response operations, and provide better protection for security personnel working in vulnerable locations.
Moreover, the additional equipment will help security forces respond more effectively to emergencies while maintaining a visible presence in conflict-prone areas.
Focus on Peace and Security
The CoBRA battalions, together with regular CRPF personnel, have received responsibility for maintaining law and order, dismantling insurgent bunkers, and preventing armed miscreants from regrouping.
In June 2026, CRPF-led forces demolished 30 active insurgent bunkers during an area domination operation in Leimakhong in Kangpokpi district. As a result, officials believe the operation significantly disrupted militant activities in the region.
Background of the Manipur Conflict
Manipur has witnessed ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023.
The prolonged conflict has claimed more than 260 lives and displaced thousands of people. Therefore, the Central Government has deployed a large number of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) to restore normalcy.
Currently, around 320 CAPF companies are stationed across the state, including nearly 200 companies of the CRPF, making it the largest security force operating in Manipur.
CoBRA’s Changing Mission
The CoBRA battalions were raised in 2008-09 to combat Left Wing Extremism through intelligence-based jungle warfare operations.
Over the years, the force earned recognition for conducting successful anti-Maoist missions in several states. Now, with Maoist violence significantly reduced, the elite commandos have taken on a broader role in addressing internal security challenges in conflict-affected regions such as Manipur.
CRPF Adjusts Deployment Elsewhere
Meanwhile, security officials confirmed that the CRPF has begun withdrawing around 60 companies from West Bengal following the completion of Assembly election duties.
However, approximately 40 companies will continue to remain deployed in the state to support ongoing security requirements.
Question and Answer
What happened?
The CRPF provided specialised crowd-control and law-and-order training to two CoBRA battalions deployed in Manipur.
Why were the CoBRA commandos redeployed?
The Centre redeployed them after declaring India Naxal-free, allowing the elite force to address other security challenges.
What additional security measures have been taken?
The CRPF has deployed around 100 armoured vehicles to improve mobility, protection, and rapid response.
What are the CoBRA battalions doing in Manipur?
They are helping maintain law and order, dismantling insurgent bunkers, and preventing armed groups from regrouping.
How many CAPF companies are deployed in Manipur?
Around 320 CAPF companies are stationed in the state, including nearly 200 companies from the CRPF.
Location Context
Manipur, located in Northeast India, shares an international border with Myanmar and remains strategically important for national security. Therefore, maintaining peace and stability in the state is crucial for regional security, border management, and public safety across the Northeast.