Army deliberating to convert logistics and transport units into the TA soon

Army deliberating to convert logistics and transport units into the TA soon

Subject :  Schemes

Context: The Indian Army, in its plan for larger manpower optimisation of its force, is deliberating to convert its logistics and transport units into the Territorial Army (TA).

More about the news:

• The Indian Army is considering converting its logistics and transport units into the Territorial Army (TA) as part of its broader manpower optimization plan.
• This move aims to reduce the government’s pay and pension burden.
• The TA is also recruiting Chinese language interpreters for border personnel meetings and cyber security experts to support the Army.
• Additionally, the Army plans to optimize its manpower by involving veterans on a contractual basis, cross-skilling technical trades, and outsourcing various services at its static units.
• This transformation is expected to be implemented over the next five years in phases.

What is Territorial Army(TA):

• The Indian Territorial Army (TA) serves as a secondary defense force to the regular army.
• It is open to individuals already employed in civilian professions, requiring gainful employment or self-employment as a prerequisite.
• TA’s role includes relieving the regular army of static duties, aiding civil authorities during calamities, and providing essential services in challenging areas.
• TA volunteers serve periodically, ready to bear arms for national defense during emergencies.
• The Motto of Territorial Army is Savdhani Va Shoorta i.e Vigilance and Valour

What is the history of Territorial Army(TA):

• The Territorial Army was raised by the Britishers in 1920 through Indian Territorial Act of 1920 and it was organized into two wings namely – ‘The Auxiliary Force’ for Europeans & Anglo-Indians and ‘The Indian Territorial Force’ for Indian Volunteers.
• After Independence Territorial Army Act was passed in 1948 and the Territorial Army was formally inaugurated by the first Indian Governor General Shri C Rajagopalachari on 09 Oct 1949.

What is the eligibility criteria of Territorial Army(TA):

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of India, open to both men and women.
• Age: Age range for candidates is 18 to 42 years.
• Educational Qualifications: Applicants should hold a graduate degree from any recognized university.
• Physical Standards: Candidates must meet the required physical and medical fitness standards.
• Employment: Must be gainfully employed in civilian professions.
• Exclusion: Individuals currently serving in the Regular Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, GREF, Para Military, or similar forces are not eligible to apply