As tensions are simmering with Pakistan, the Indian government has given the green light to the Army Chief to activate the Territorial Army or the “Terriers”.
The Indian government has authorised the Chief of Army Staff to call out members of the Territorial Army under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948. This authorisation allows the Army Chief to mobilise Territorial Army officers and personnel to support or supplement the regular forces across various military commands, including Southern, Eastern, Western, Central, Northern, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and Army Training Command (ARTRAC).
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This isn’t the first time the Territorial Army, or TA, had been summoned. Its legacy stretched back to October 9, 1949, when India’s first Governor General, C. Rajagopalachari, officially brought it into existence. That day is still celebrated annually as ‘TA Day,’ a nod to this unique “Citizens’ Army.
A civilian can join the TA as it offers them a path to serve the nation. Any Indian citizen between 18 and 42 years, a graduate, physically and mentally fit, and gainfully employed, can apply to become a TA officer. It’s a chance to live two lives: one as a civilian professional and another as a dedicated soldier, ready when the call comes. Regular armed forces members, however, aren’t eligible to join as TA officers.
So, who is the Territorial Army?
It is a volunteer reserve force that supports the regular Indian Army by handling non-combat duties, internal security, and national emergencies. It allows the regular Army to focus on frontline operations by taking over essential guard and static duties such as protecting vital installations and infrastructure. The Terries also supplement the regular Army during wars, internal security crises, and counter-insurgency operations, often being embodied (activated for full-time service) to serve alongside regular troops.
Out of the existing 32 Infantry Battalions of the TA, 14 battalions have been sanctioned for embodiment and deployment, subject to budget availability. These units can be deployed to provide essential guard duties and support roles, effectively multiplying the operational strength of the Indian Army during heightened security situations.
Origins of Territorial Army
The Territorial Army was established on October 9, 1949, and currently comprises around 50,000 personnel, including departmental units from various government sectors and non-departmental infantry and engineer battalions. The TA has a history of participation in major conflicts such as the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, and has been involved in operations in Sri Lanka, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and the northeast.