The Territorial Army (TA) was raised on 9 October, 1949 to augment the regular army and to relieve the force from static duties. Through the unique structure of the Territorial Army an individual could join it as a part time volunteer. The TA is a successor of the Indian Territorial Force which was the reserve volunteer force of the country till 1948. The force allows civilians pursuing other professions to serve as soldiers. The force is structured on the lines of United Kingdom’s Territorial Army.
The Territorial Army has participated in all the wars and conflicts involving India since its independence. The force has played a role in the 1962 war with China, the 1965 & 1971 wars with Pakistan. It also tok part in the Kargil conflict and in counter-insurgency operations (both in the North-East and in Kashmir).
Besides its operational role, the TA also helps the civil administration during natural calamities. It also maintains law and order during times of unrest. The force has provided exceptional service during 1991 Uttarkashi earthquake, 1993 Latur earthquake, 1999 Odisha cyclone and during the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, among many other such devastating incidents. The TA also protected energy infrastructure during the riots post the Godhara train burning in 2002.
The TA also plays a very important ecological role. The organisation has a force of 10 ecological battalions, apart from the over 40 infantry battalions. These Ecological Task Forces (ETFs) are located around the nation and are primarily involved in afforestation in ecologically degraded areas. A Composite Ecological Task Force (CETF) is also playing a critical role in rejuvenating river Ganga.
Many prominent personalities, from all walks of life, such as Nana Patekar, Kapil Dev, Mohanlal, Abhinav Bindra, MS Dhoni, Anurag Thakur and Sachin Pilot are members of the force.
