Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday described the Territorial Army as a living embodiment of the "Citizen-Soldier" concept, highlighting its role in strengthening India's defence preparedness while contributing to nation-building initiatives. Speaking during a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi, Singh said the Territorial Army creates vital surge capacity for the armed forces by maintaining a trained reserve of personnel who serve both in civilian professions and military roles.
The meeting included a detailed presentation by senior defence officials on the Territorial Army's mandate, operational responsibilities and key achievements. Committee members also offered suggestions aimed at enhancing the force's capabilities and overall effectiveness. Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army has made a significant contribution towards advancing the government's vision of a "Viksit Bharat" through its dual role in national security and public service.
Highlighting the unique nature of the force, the Defence Minister said Territorial Army personnel pursue civilian careers while remaining ready to don the uniform whenever required to safeguard the country's borders and assist in maintaining internal security. He added that after completing their military tenure, these citizen-soldiers return to civilian life and serve as a bridge between society and the armed forces, inspiring young people to consider careers in the defence services.
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The Territorial Army currently comprises nearly 44,400 personnel organised into 59 units and has played a key role in disaster response across the country. Rajnath Singh described the force as one of the nation's first responders during natural calamities, acknowledging its relief and medical assistance during the Kerala floods, the Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam. He also praised its contribution to environmental conservation, noting that the Ecological Task Forces have planted nearly 10 crore saplings with a reported survival rate of 80-85 per cent, supporting the government's Mission LiFE and Panchamrit initiatives.
The Defence Minister further commended the Territorial Army's efforts in promoting the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign in Jammu and Kashmir, describing the force as an important link between the military and the public. The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. 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 from the Ministry of Defence.
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