Territorial Army Plays Key Role in Nation Building, Disaster Response: Rajnath Singh

Suhail Khan

New Delhi, Aug 6: Defence Minister  Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the Territorial Army has made a significant contribution to the vision of a Viksit Bharat, describing it as the true embodiment of the “Citizen-Soldier” concept while chairing a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence.

According to an official spokesperson, the meeting focused on the role, mandate and achievements of the Territorial Army. Senior defence officials briefed committee members, who also offered suggestions to further strengthen the force and enhance its operational effectiveness.

Addressing the meeting, Rajnath Singh said Territorial Army personnel not only support national security but also contribute extensively to environmental conservation, disaster response and social welfare.

“The Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the ‘Citizen-Soldier’ concept. Its members pursue civilian professions while remaining ready to safeguard the nation’s borders and maintain internal security whenever required,” he said.

The Defence Minister said the Territorial Army provides crucial surge capacity to the Armed Forces by maintaining a reserve of trained personnel who can be mobilised at short notice. He added that after completing their service, these personnel continue to serve the nation by inspiring young people to join the defence forces.

The Territorial Army currently comprises around 44,400 personnel across 59 units and has played a key role in relief and rescue operations during natural disasters, including the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam.

Highlighting its environmental initiatives, Rajnath Singh said the Ecological Task Forces of the Territorial Army have planted nearly 10 crore saplings, maintaining a survival rate of 80–85 per cent, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation and the Government’s Mission LiFE and Panchamrit goals.

He also praised the force’s efforts in promoting the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials.