Operation Sindoor : Territorial Army Activated Amid Tensions

New Delhi. The Ministry of Defence has authorized the Chief of the Army Staff to activate officers and personnel of the Territorial Army (TA) for active duty under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948. The order, backdated to February 10, 2025, and effective until February 9, 2028, comes in the wake of India’s retaliatory “Operation Sindoor,” launched on May 7, 2025, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This is a significant move to strengthen national security amid escalating tensions with Pakistan.

According to a gazette notification dated May 6, 2025, the government has sanctioned the embodiment of 14 out of the 32 existing Infantry Battalions of the Territorial Army. These units are slated for deployment across multiple commands, including Northern, Western, Eastern, Southern, Central, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and the Army Training Command (ARTRAC). The notification emphasizes fiscal responsibility, stating that embodiment will proceed only if funds are available in the budget or through re-appropriation of internal savings. For units activated at the request of ministries other than the Ministry of Defence, costs will be borne by the respective ministries, ensuring no additional burden on the defence budget.

This mobilization marks a proactive step to enhance India’s military readiness as cross-border tensions intensify. The Territorial Army, with approximately 50,000 personnel, serves as a vital reserve force, supporting the Indian Army in non-combat roles, disaster relief, and ecological initiatives. Comprising 65 departmental units (e.g., Railways, IOC, ONGC) and non-departmental infantry and engineer battalions, the TA also includes specialized ecological task forces contributing to afforestation and the Clean Ganga Mission.

The activation of the Territorial Army coincides with India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, a series of precision missile and drone strikes targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and PoK. Pakistan’s response has heightened regional tensions.

The activation of the Territorial Army underscores its critical role in supporting the Indian Army during crises. By handling non-combat duties, disaster response, and essential services, the TA enables regular forces to focus on frontline operations. Its ecological task forces, which have planted over 80 million trees and supported environmental projects, highlight its multifaceted contributions to national welfare.

As India navigates this volatile period, the Territorial Army’s deployment signals a robust and strategic response to both security and humanitarian challenges. With Operation Sindoor marking a firm stance against terrorism and Pakistan’s retaliatory actions raising the specter of further escalation, the international community watches closely, urging both nations to prioritize dialogue and de-escalation.