New Delhi, August 6: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, with discussions centred on the Territorial Army (TA) and its expanding role in national security, disaster response, environmental conservation and nation-building.
During the meeting, senior officials presented a detailed briefing on the Territorial Army’s mandate, operational role and key achievements. Members of the committee also offered suggestions to further strengthen the force and enhance its effectiveness.
“Living Embodiment of the Citizen-Soldier Concept”
Addressing the committee, Rajnath Singh described the Territorial Army as a “living embodiment of the Citizen-Soldier concept.”
He said Territorial Army personnel continue their civilian professions while also serving the nation in uniform whenever required.
“While its members engage in civilian pursuits, they simultaneously don the uniform to safeguard the borders and maintain internal security,” the Defence Minister said.
Strengthening India’s Defence Preparedness
Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army provides valuable surge capacity to the Armed Forces by maintaining a reserve of trained personnel who can be mobilised at short notice during emergencies or national security contingencies.
He added that after completing their military tenure, TA personnel become a strong bridge between society and the Armed Forces, motivating young Indians to join the defence services.
Force Strength and Operational Role
The Defence Minister noted that the Territorial Army currently comprises around 44,400 personnel across 59 diverse units, making it an important auxiliary force supporting the regular Army.
First Responders During Disasters
Rajnath Singh praised the Territorial Army’s contribution during natural disasters, describing its personnel as among the country’s first responders.
He highlighted their role in:
- Flood relief operations in Kerala
- Odisha Cyclone relief efforts
- Recent Assam floods
- Rescue operations
- Medical assistance
- Humanitarian relief
Major Contribution to Environmental Conservation
Highlighting the Territorial Army’s Ecological Task Forces, the Defence Minister said they have planted nearly 10 crore saplings across the country, maintaining an impressive 80–85% survival rate.
He said these efforts are supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE and Panchamrit environmental goals.
Role in Jammu & Kashmir
Rajnath Singh also appreciated the Territorial Army’s contribution in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly for promoting the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign and supporting various national integration initiatives in the region.
Senior Leadership Present
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
- Senior Ministry of Defence officials
The meeting underscored the government’s emphasis on further strengthening the Territorial Army as a vital component of India’s defence architecture while recognising its significant contributions to disaster management, environmental protection and national development.