New Delhi : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday, with discussions centred on the Territorial Army. Senior Defence Ministry officials presented a detailed briefing on the force’s mandate, role and achievements, while committee members offered suggestions to further strengthen the organisation and enhance its operational effectiveness.
Addressing the meeting, Rajnath Singh described the Territorial Army’s contribution as significant in advancing the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said that while the Armed Forces primarily focus on national security, the Territorial Army also plays an important role in environmental conservation, disaster response and social service.
Calling the Territorial Army a “living embodiment of the Citizen-Soldier concept,” the Defence Minister said its members pursue civilian professions while remaining prepared to serve the nation by safeguarding the country’s borders and supporting internal security whenever required.
Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army strengthens the country’s defence preparedness by creating a reserve of trained personnel who can be mobilised quickly during emergencies. He added that after completing their service, Territorial Army personnel act as a strong link between the military and society, inspiring young people to join the Armed Forces.
The Defence Minister noted that the Territorial Army currently comprises around 44,400 personnel across 59 units. He praised the force for its role as a first responder during natural disasters, highlighting its relief, rescue and medical assistance operations during the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam.
Commending the force’s contribution to environmental protection, Rajnath Singh said the Ecological Task Forces of the Territorial Army have planted around 10 crore saplings, achieving a survival rate of 80 to 85 per cent. He said the initiative supports the Prime Minister’s Mission LiFE and Panchamrit commitments on climate action. He also appreciated the Territorial Army’s efforts in promoting the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, 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 Defence Ministry officials.