What is Territorial Army ?

What is territorial army ?

The Territorial Army (TA) is a part-time military reserve force in India, composed of volunteers who support the regular army and assist in civil administration during emergencies.

This force is meant for people already employed in civil professions — doctors, engineers, business owners, and more — who are ready to put on the uniform when called upon. They undergo military training periodically and are ready to support national defence during wars, natural disasters, or other emergencies.

The Territorial Army operates part-time, and volunteers are required to undergo two months of training each year.

As per the official website, the TA currently has around 50,000 personnel across 65 units, including both departmental units (like those from Railways, ONGC, and Indian Oil) and Non-Departmental units (Infantry Battalions, Ecological Task Forces, and Engineering units).

What Is The Role Of TA?

The duties of the TA include “relieving the Regular Army from static duties”, while also assisting civil authorities in times of natural calamities and tragedies.

They also help civil administration with providing essential services in areas where state machinery is stretched or there are security threats.

Volunteers of the TA usually serve in uniform for a few days every year, so that they can bear arms for national defence in times of dire need or national emergencies.

Depending on the situation, officers may also be called for extended military service as need be. When called up for training or active duty, they receive the same pay, allowances, and privileges as regular Army officers.