Gurkha word itself derived from "Go-Raksha" (), "raksha" becoming "rakha" (रखा). "Rakhawala" means "protector" and is derived from "raksha" as well. There are Gurkha military units in the Nepalese, British and Indian armies enlisted in Nepal, United Kingdom and India. Although they meet many of the requirements of Article 47 of Protocol I of the Geneva Conventions regarding mercenaries, they are exempt under clauses similarly to the French Foreign Legion. Gurkhas are closely associated with the khukuri, a forward-curving Nepali knife, and have a reputation for fearless military prowess. Former Indian Army Chief of Staff Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw once stated
Gurkha Contingent The contingent also has its own Gurkha Band Contingent, the Gurkha Contingent Pipes and Drums Platoon, which is part of the Singapore Police Force Band. The Gurkha Contingent Pipes and drums platoon is commanded by P&D OIC Inspector Prem Kumar Rai. In addition, the Gurkha Contingent has three tactical forces, in which they are called the Special Action Group, the Special Guard and Counter-Terrorist Unit and the new Special Tactical Unit. The Gurkha Special Action Group was first seen taking part in Exercise Northstar VII as they planned and infiltrated Marriott Hotel in Orchard Road and subdued two "terrorists" and