![](https://bharatshakti.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/LT-BSI-Defence.gif")
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday described the Territorial Army (TA) as the country’s “citizen-soldier” force and stressed its growing role in strengthening military preparedness, disaster response and nation-building.
Chairing a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence, Singh said the Territorial Army provides critical surge capacity by maintaining a reserve of trained personnel who can be mobilised at short notice during emergencies.
“The Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the ‘citizen-soldier’ concept. While its members pursue civilian professions, they also wear the uniform to safeguard the borders and maintain internal security,” Singh said.
He said trained TA personnel not only reinforce the armed forces during operational requirements but also act as a bridge between the military and society after returning to civilian life, inspiring more youth to join the armed forces.
According to the Defence Ministry, the Territorial Army currently has nearly 44,400 personnel organised into 59 units. Singh described it as a trained and motivated force that serves as the first responder during natural disasters, citing its relief and rescue operations during the Kerala floods, the Odisha cyclone and the recent floods in Assam.
He also highlighted the force’s contribution to environmental conservation and social welfare, saying its role extends beyond conventional security responsibilities and supports the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat.
During the meeting, senior defence officials briefed members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on the Territorial Army’s mandate, operational role and achievements. Committee members offered suggestions to strengthen the force further and improve its effectiveness.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff Gen N. S. Raja Subramani, Army Chief Gen Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Finance) Vishvajit Sahay and other senior officials.
Team BharatShakti
