New Delhi, Aug 6: The Territorial Army currently comprises around 44,400 personnel organised into 59 units, providing the armed forces with a trained reserve that can be mobilised immediately during war, internal security operations and natural disasters, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday.
Chairing a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army serves as a crucial force multiplier by creating surge capacity for the armed forces through a pool of trained citizen-soldiers who can be deployed whenever the need arises.
Describing the Territorial Army as the embodiment of the “Citizen-Soldier” concept, the Defence Minister said its members pursue civilian professions while remaining prepared to don the uniform to safeguard the country’s borders and assist in maintaining internal security.
He said the force also plays a significant humanitarian role, acting as the first responder during natural disasters by carrying out rescue and relief operations and providing medical assistance. Rajnath Singh cited the Territorial Army’s contribution during the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam.
Highlighting its contribution beyond conventional military duties, the Defence Minister said the Ecological Task Forces of the Territorial Army have planted nearly 10 crore saplings across the country, achieving a survival rate of 80-85 per cent. He said the initiative supports the Prime Minister’s Mission LiFE and Panchamrit goals by promoting environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.
Rajnath Singh also lauded the efforts of Territorial Army personnel deployed in Jammu and Kashmir for taking the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign to greater heights.
He said Territorial Army personnel continue to contribute to nation-building even after completing their tenure, acting as a bridge between society and the armed forces while motivating young people to join the defence services.
The Defence Minister described the Territorial Army’s contribution as significant in advancing the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat, saying the force complements the regular armed forces not only in defence preparedness but also in environmental protection and social service.
Senior officials of the Ministry of Defence gave a detailed presentation to members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on the Territorial Army’s mandate, operational role and achievements during the meeting. Committee members also offered suggestions to further strengthen the force and enhance its effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Finance) Vishvajit Sahay and other senior officials.
