Rajnath Singh chaired a Defence panel meeting on the Territorial Army, highlighting its role in national security, disaster response and environmental conservation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi on Thursday, with the Territorial Army at the centre of discussions.
During the meeting, senior defence officials briefed members of the parliamentary panel on the Territorial Army’s mandate, operational role and key contributions. Members also shared suggestions aimed at strengthening the force and improving its overall effectiveness.
Rajnath Singh Highlights Territorial Army’s Contribution
Addressing the committee, Rajnath Singh described the Territorial Army’s contribution as significant to the government’s broader vision of Viksit Bharat.
The Defence Minister said the armed forces primarily focus on national security, but the Territorial Army has also made contributions in areas such as environmental conservation and social service.
He highlighted the force as an example of the “Citizen-Soldier” concept, under which individuals continue their civilian professions while remaining prepared to serve the nation in uniform when required.
Territorial Army Provides Additional Defence Capacity
Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army strengthens the country’s defence preparedness by maintaining a trained pool of personnel who can be mobilised when the situation demands.
He further noted that personnel returning to civilian life after completing their service can help strengthen the connection between the armed forces and wider society.
According to the Defence Minister, this interaction can also encourage young people to consider careers and service in the armed forces.
Territorial Army Has Around 44,400 Personnel
The Territorial Army currently has approximately 44,400 personnel across 59 units, according to the information shared at the meeting.
Rajnath Singh also highlighted its role in responding to natural disasters. Territorial Army personnel have contributed to relief, rescue and medical assistance during emergencies, including the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone and recent floods in Assam.
The Defence Minister described the force as an important first-response capability during such crises.
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Nearly 10 Crore Saplings Planted by Ecological Task Forces
The Territorial Army’s environmental work also featured prominently during the meeting.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the force’s Ecological Task Forces have planted around 10 crore saplings so far, with an estimated survival rate of between 80 and 85 per cent.
He linked these efforts to the objectives of Mission LiFE and the Panchamrit goals, describing the initiative as an example of environmental action on the ground.
Role in J&K and Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign
The Defence Minister also appreciated the Territorial Army units deployed in Jammu and Kashmir for their contribution to the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign.
He said their participation had helped take the campaign to a wider level and reflected the force’s role beyond conventional military responsibilities.
Senior Defence Officials Attend Meeting
Several senior officials participated in the meeting, including Minister of State for Defence 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 and Secretary (Defence Finance) Vishvajit Sahay.
The meeting focused on examining the Territorial Army’s present role and identifying ways to further enhance its capabilities.
The discussions underlined the multifaceted nature of the Territorial Army, combining military preparedness with disaster response, environmental conservation and social engagement.
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