Naik (military rank) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Naik
Indian and Pakistani rank insignia
Country	Bangladesh  India  Pakistan
Service branch	Army
Abbreviation	Nk
Rank group	Enlisted rank
Next higher rank	Havildar
Next lower rank	Lance naik
Equivalent ranks	Corporal

A Naik (pronounced "Nye-ik") is a military rank used in the Indian Army and Pakistan Army. It is also a rank in the Bangladesh Police. This rank is similar to a corporal in many other armies around the world.

What is a Naik?

In an army, a rank tells you a soldier's position and responsibilities. A Naik is a non-commissioned officer (NCO). This means they are experienced soldiers who lead small groups of other soldiers. They are above regular soldiers but below officers.

Naiks usually lead a small team or section of soldiers. They make sure their team follows orders and completes tasks. They are important for training new recruits and keeping discipline.

How to spot a Naik

A Naik wears two special marks on their uniform. These marks are called chevrons. Chevrons are V-shaped stripes. You can usually see them on the arm or shoulder of the uniform. This is similar to how a corporal in the British Army wears their rank.

History of the Naik Rank

The rank of Naik has a long history. It was used in the British Indian Army when India was under British rule (this period was called the Raj). During that time, the Naik rank was between a lance naik (a lower rank) and a havildar (a higher rank).

The rank was also used in special units like the Camel Corps. This was a group of soldiers who rode camels! In cavalry units, which are soldiers who fight on horseback, the Naik rank was called a lance daffadar. Even though the names were different, the responsibilities were similar.

Today, the Naik rank continues to be an important part of the armies in India and Pakistan. It helps keep military units organized and effective.

See also

• Army ranks and insignia of India
• Army ranks and insignia of Pakistan