New Delhi, 06 August (H.S.): The Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence on Thursday held a meeting in New Delhi, with discussions centred on the Territorial Army. During the meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior officials briefed committee members on the Territorial Army's mandate, operational role, and key achievements. Members of the committee also offered several suggestions to further strengthen the force and enhance its overall effectiveness.

Addressing the meeting, Rajnath Singh said that while the primary role of the Armed Forces revolves around national security, the Territorial Army also makes significant contributions in areas such as environmental conservation and social service.

He described the Territorial Army as a living embodiment of the Citizen-Soldier concept, noting that its members continue to pursue civilian professions while wearing the uniform whenever required to safeguard the nation's borders and maintain internal security.

The Defence Minister said the Territorial Army enhances the operational capability of the Armed Forces by maintaining a reserve pool of trained personnel who can be mobilised at short notice whenever the need arises. He added that after completing their military service and returning to civilian life, Territorial Army personnel serve as a vital bridge between society and the Armed Forces.

Rajnath Singh said the Territorial Army is a trained, motivated, and capable force comprising nearly 44,400 personnel and 59 diverse units. He highlighted its frontline role in providing immediate relief and assistance during natural disasters.

The Defence Minister praised the force for its relief and rescue operations during floods in Kerala, cyclones in Odisha, and the recent floods in Assam, as well as for providing medical assistance to affected communities.

Commending its contribution to environmental management and climate change mitigation, Singh said the Territorial Army's Ecological Task Forces have planted nearly 100 million saplings so far, with an impressive survival rate of 80 to 85 per cent.

He also lauded the efforts of the Territorial Army units deployed in Jammu and Kashmir for taking the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign to greater heights.

The meeting highlighted the Territorial Army's crucial role in translating the Citizen-Soldier concept into reality, strengthening national security, responding to disasters, promoting environmental conservation, and contributing to nation-building. Committee members were also briefed on the force's achievements and future roadmap, and they offered valuable suggestions to further enhance its effectiveness in serving the nation.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Finance) Vishwajit Sahay, and other senior officials attended the meeting.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar