India Mobilises the “Terriers”: What is the Territorial Army and Why It Matters Now
So, Who Exactly Are the “Terriers”?
Alright, let’s clear this up first — when India mobilises the “Terriers,” it’s not talking about dogs. It’s talking about citizen soldiers — regular people like you and me who serve the nation without giving up their day jobs. That’s right. The Territorial Army (TA) is made up of part-time volunteers who step up during national emergencies or support missions.
Think of them as the backbone you didn’t know the Indian Army had. They’re not full-time soldiers, but when duty calls, they’re right there — in uniform, on the ground.
Why Are They in the News Right Now?
Here’s the thing — with rising tensions and unexpected disasters, India needs more boots on the ground. The Army's already stretched, so the TA is being mobilised to support logistics, communication, and internal security tasks, especially in high-pressure zones.
You might not see them on prime-time news every night, but they’re often the ones holding things together quietly behind the scenes.
Who Can Join?
Honestly, this part always surprises people.
To join the Territorial Army, you need to:
- Be an Indian citizen aged 18–42
- Be gainfully employed (yep, students can’t apply)
- Clear written tests and physical fitness rounds
So yes, you could be a banker on Monday and a soldier on Saturday.
What Do They Actually Do?
It’s not all about guns and camouflage. Here’s what Terriers handle:
- Supporting army units in critical zones
- Guarding vital infrastructure
- Disaster relief (floods, earthquakes, you name it)
- Logistics support in high-altitude or remote areas
Back in the 2014 Kashmir floods, it was the Territorial Army that helped evacuate thousands. That’s impact you can’t ignore.
FAQ: Quick Fire Answers
Q: Is the Territorial Army part of the Indian Army? Yes, but it’s a volunteer reserve force — not full-time.
Q: Do they get paid? Only when they’re called for duty or training. No monthly salary otherwise.
Q: Can women join? Yes, since 2019, women officers can be commissioned in select departments.
