NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday described the Territorial Army’s contribution as “significant” in advancing the government’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and emphasised that while the role of the defence forces revolves primarily around security-related aspects, the Territorial Army contributes in other areas such as environmental conservation and social work as well.He said this while chairing a meeting of the parliamentary consultative committee for the defence ministry in Delhi on Thursday.During the meeting, senior officials presented a detailed briefing on the Territorial Army’s mandate, role and key achievements to the committee members, who offered valuable suggestions to further strengthen the force & enhance its overall effectiveness.Rajnath said, “The Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the ‘Citizen-Soldier’ concept. While its members engage in civilian pursuits, they simultaneously don the uniform to safeguard the borders and maintain internal security.” He asserted that the Territorial Army creates surge capacity for the defence forces by building a reserve of trained soldiers who can be deployed immediately whenever the need arises. He added that when the personnel complete their tenure and return to civilian life, they act as a vibrant bridge between society and the military, inspiring the people, especially the youth, to join the defence forces.The Territorial Army stands as a trained, motivated, and potent force, comprising approximately 44,400 personnel and 59 diverse units. The minister termed the force the first responders, who provide immediate relief and support during natural calamities. He acknowledged their role in carrying out relief & rescue work, and providing medical aid to those in need during the Kerala floods, Odisha Cyclone & the recent floods in Assam.Commending their contribution in environmental management and climate change mitigation, Rajnath said ecological task forces of the Territorial Army have planted 10 crore saplings till date, with the survival rate between 80-85%. This green initiative is translating the PM’s ‘Mission LiFE’ and ‘Panchamrit’ goals into reality on the ground, he said. He also appreciated the efforts of the Territorial Army, deployed in J&K, for taking the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign to greater heights.
