NEW DELHI: Amid escalating tensions with Pakistan following Operation Sindoor—a series of precision strikes by Indian forces on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir—the Centre has authorised the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) to mobilize the Territorial Army (TA) in support of regular forces. This activation, under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948, is effective from February 10, 2025, to February 9, 2028.
The decision comes hours after India successfully repelled multiple missile and drone attacks launched by Pakistan on military bases and border cities.
14 Battalions Sanctioned for Deployment
Out of 32 existing infantry battalions, 14 have been sanctioned for embodiment. These units will be deployed across key commands including Northern, Western, Eastern, Southern, Central, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and the Army Training Command (ARTRAC). Funding will be covered by the Ministry of Defence or relevant ministries if TA units are deployed on their request.
What Is the Territorial Army?
The Territorial Army is a part-time voluntary reserve force that supplements the Indian Army during times of need. Established under the Territorial Army Act of 1948, it comprises civilians from various sectors—including PSUs, Indian Railways, and private organizations—who serve in uniform when called upon.
With over 40,000 personnel, the TA consists of 32 infantry battalions and several departmental and engineer units. Personnel hold military ranks and can be mobilized during emergencies, conflicts, or natural disasters.
Key Roles of the TA:
- Relieve regular troops from static duties like guarding critical infrastructure.
- Support combat operations when embodied during emergencies or wartime.
- Assist in counter-insurgency and internal security operations, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast.
- Aid civil authorities during natural disasters and crises.
Strategic Value and Current Relevance
The TA is a cost-effective, force-multiplying component of national defence. Its members bring specialized skills and regional expertise, making them well-suited for roles in intelligence, infrastructure support, and crisis response.
The current mobilisation allows the Army to:
- Reinforce regular troops in operational and static roles.
- Strengthen internal security mechanisms.
- Boost readiness without maintaining a larger standing army.
Looking Ahead
This expanded role reflects the TA’s increasing importance in India’s strategic defence framework. Notably, recent recruitment efforts—such as inducting Mandarin-language graduates—highlight the force’s evolving responsibilities in intelligence and strategic domains, particularly amid rising concerns along the China border.
