Image Credit: Official website of the Indian Army
Territorial Army Mobilised to Support Operation Sindoor
As India intensifies its military posture under Operation Sindoor, the government has officially authorised the mobilisation of the Territorial Army (TA) to bolster support for the regular armed forces. The decision empowers the Chief of Army Staff to call out every officer and enrolled member of the TA under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948, marking a significant step in India’s national defence preparedness.
The move allows the Indian Army to activate 14 of the existing 32 infantry battalions of the TA for deployment across all major army commands—including Northern, Western, Eastern, Southern, Central, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and Army Training Command (ARTRAC). This mobilisation reflects the growing strategic demand for manpower and operational support amid rising security threats along the northern and western borders.
Operation Sindoor Triggers Nationwide Defence Readiness
The mobilisation order, issued earlier this week, comes amid the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, which has included missile attacks, drone strikes, and infiltration attempts. India has responded with precision air and artillery strikes under Operation Sindoor, aimed at dismantling terrorist launchpads and infrastructure deep inside Pakistani territory and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The Territorial Army, which consists of trained civilian volunteers, plays a crucial role in supplementing the standing army during emergencies. Its activation will provide additional support for guard duties, logistics, surveillance, and critical infrastructure security, freeing regular troops for front-line operations.
Coordinated Military Strategy with Civil Support
This strategic deployment is also subject to budgetary approval, with the financial burden to be borne by the respective ministries and departments requisitioning TA support. By activating the TA, the government ensures that both military and civil defence capacities are synchronised in responding to national threats.
The decision underscores India’s comprehensive approach to defence—leveraging both its regular armed forces and reserve components like the Territorial Army to maintain high levels of preparedness. As the geopolitical situation remains volatile, especially in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and the cross-border exchanges that followed, the TA’s mobilisation marks a critical escalation in India’s military readiness.
This move sends a clear message: India is not only retaliating with precision strikes but also preparing its domestic defence architecture to respond to any scenario. With the TA now actively integrated, the Indian Armed Forces are further reinforced to maintain territorial integrity and civilian safety under the shadow of war.
