Defence Ministry Parliamentary Committee Meeting on Territorial Army
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi on August 6, 2026, with discussions exclusively focused on the Territorial Army. Senior officials presented a detailed briefing on the Territorial Army's mandate, role, and key achievements to committee members, who offered suggestions to further strengthen the force and enhance its overall effectiveness.
In his address, Raksha Mantri described the Territorial Army's contribution as significant in advancing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi-led Government's vision of 'Viksit Bharat'. He emphasized that while the defence forces primarily focus on security-related aspects, the Territorial Army also contributes in areas such as environmental conservation and social work. Singh stated that the Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the 'Citizen-Soldier' concept, where members engage in civilian pursuits while simultaneously donning uniforms to safeguard borders and maintain internal security.
Operational Capacity and Disaster Response
The Territorial Army stands as a trained, motivated force comprising approximately 44,400 personnel organized across 59 diverse units. The Defence Minister asserted that the force creates surge capacity for the defence forces by building a reserve of trained soldiers who can be deployed immediately when needed. He acknowledged their role as first responders who provide immediate relief and support during natural calamities, specifically mentioning their relief and rescue work during Kerala floods, Odisha Cyclone, and recent floods in Assam, where they provided medical aid to those in need.
Environmental Conservation Achievements
Commending their contribution in environmental management and climate change mitigation, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that the Ecological Task Forces of the Territorial Army have planted approximately 10 crore saplings to date, with an impressive survival rate between 80-85 percent. This green initiative is translating the Prime Minister's 'Mission LiFE' and 'Panchamrit' goals into reality on the ground. The Minister also appreciated the efforts of Territorial Army units deployed in Jammu & Kashmir for taking the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign to greater heights.
Attendees and Organizational Impact
The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Finance) Shri Vishvajit Sahay, and other senior officers. The Defence Minister highlighted that when Territorial Army personnel complete their tenure and return to civilian life, they act as a vibrant bridge between society and the military, inspiring people, especially youth, to join the defence forces.