Nestled in the misty hills of Vairengte, Mizoram, the Counter-Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) stands as one of the world’s foremost training establishments for unconventional warfare. Established in 1970—with origins tracing back to 1967 amid rising insurgencies in Northeast India—the school operates under the enduring motto: “Fight the Guerrilla Like a Guerrilla.” It equips soldiers with the skills to excel in counter-insurgency (CI), guerrilla operations, and jungle survival, prioritizing patience, mastery of terrain, psychological toughness, and instinctive combat over conventional firepower.
What sets CIJWS apart is its unique combat history: it is the only Indian Army training institution to have actively participated in a war, providing critical support to Mukti Bahini guerrillas during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Since then, it has trained personnel from the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and international militaries from over 48 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Nepal.
The curriculum is rigorous and realistic, featuring live-fire ambushes, improvised explosive device (IED) detection and neutralization, reflex shooting drills, helicopter slithering (rope descent), endurance missions extending up to 96 hours, and simulations of hybrid threats incorporating drones, surveillance technology, and modern battlefield complexities.
As of January 2026, the Commandant of CIJWS is Major General Kulvir Singh, SM (Sena Medal for gallantry). He assumed command on September 30, 2025, succeeding Major General Vinod Kumar Nambiar. Under Major General Kulvir Singh’s leadership, the school continues to adapt its training to emerging hybrid conflicts, technological advancements, and international collaborations. This was highlighted in his addresses during recent course valedictories, where he stressed the evolving nature of warfare amid rapid technological shifts and complex threat environments.
A valuable insight into CIJWS comes from the 2025 documentary series Vairengte Warriors, produced by BharatShakti and StratNewsGlobal. Episode I, titled “Counter-Insurgency, Jungle Warfare Masterclass: Meet The CIJWS Commandant,” features an in-depth interview with the then-Commandant, Major General Vinod Nambiar, exploring the school’s philosophy, historical legacy, and the unforgiving realism of its training regimen. Subsequent episodes delve into practical drills, such as reflex firing and slithering operations, offering a rare glimpse into the institution’s operations.
CIJWS remains a global benchmark, preparing warriors not just for traditional jungle and insurgency challenges but for the multifaceted demands of contemporary asymmetric warfare. Its emphasis on adaptability, resilience, and innovative tactics ensures it continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing military readiness worldwide.
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