New Delhi:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday described the Territorial Army as a “living embodiment” of the Citizen-Soldier concept and a significant contributor to the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat, while chairing a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi.
The meeting focused on the role, mandate and future strengthening of the Territorial Army. Senior officials of the Ministry of Defence presented a detailed briefing on the force’s mandate, operational responsibilities and key achievements before members of the committee, who offered suggestions to further enhance its effectiveness.
Addressing the committee, Singh said the Territorial Army has made a significant contribution towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government’s vision of a developed India. While the primary responsibility of the armed forces is national security, he noted that the Territorial Army plays an equally important role in environmental conservation, disaster response and social service.
“The Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the ‘Citizen-Soldier’ concept. While its members engage in civilian pursuits, they simultaneously don the uniform to safeguard the borders and maintain internal security,” the Defence Minister said.
He said the Territorial Army provides critical surge capacity to the armed forces by maintaining a reserve of trained personnel who can be mobilised whenever required. According to Singh, once these personnel return to civilian life after completing their tenure, they continue to serve as a bridge between the military and society, inspiring young people to join the armed forces.
Highlighting the force’s strength, Singh said the Territorial Army comprises around 44,400 personnel organised into 59 diverse units. He described them as the country’s “first responders” during natural disasters, acknowledging their contributions in relief and rescue operations during the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam, where they provided medical assistance and emergency support to affected communities.
The Defence Minister also praised the Territorial Army’s contribution to environmental protection and climate change mitigation through its Ecological Task Forces. He said these units have planted nearly 10 crore saplings across the country, achieving a survival rate of 80 to 85 per cent.
Calling the initiative a significant contribution to environmental sustainability, Singh said it is helping translate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission LiFE and Panchamrit commitments into action on the ground.
He further appreciated the efforts of Territorial Army personnel deployed in Jammu and Kashmir for strengthening the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and promoting greater public participation in the national initiative.
Further, the committee members shared  suggestions aimed at further strengthening the Territorial Army and enhancing its operational capabilities across its diverse roles in national security, disaster management, environmental conservation and nation-building.
