New Delhi, May 9: In response to the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, the Indian government has authorized the Chief of Army Staff to mobilize the entire Territorial Army (TA), including all officers and enlisted personnel, to support and reinforce the regular armed forces.
A recent notification from the Ministry of Defence, dated May 6, states this directive will be effective for three years, from February 10, 2025, to February 9, 2028. The decision aims to bolster military readiness during the escalating cross-border tensions.
The Territorial Army, established in 1949, has a longstanding history of assisting in wartime operations, disaster relief, and national service efforts. It operates as an integrated component of the Indian Army and has earned numerous accolades for bravery and service.
Under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948, the government’s order enables the Army Chief to summon TA units for essential security duties or to reinforce regular forces as needed.
The notification also specifies that 14 of the 32 TA Infantry Battalions will be activated for deployment across various commands, including Southern, Eastern, Western, Central, Northern, South Western, Andaman & Nicobar, and the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), depending on available budget or internal fund reallocations.
Additionally, if any units are activated at the request of ministries other than Defence, the associated costs will be covered by those respective ministries, not the Defence Ministry’s budget.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted a detailed review of the national security situation with senior military officials on Friday, following Pakistan’s unsuccessful drone and missile strikes on Indian military sites. Sources indicate that all aspects of the evolving security landscape were discussed during the high-level meeting.
