Territorial Army

The Territorial Army is a part-time military force that supports the regular Indian Army when required. It provides an opportunity for eligible citizens who are gainfully employed or otherwise meet the prescribed conditions to serve as Territorial Army officers while continuing their civilian careers. Recruitment for civilian candidates involves an online application, examination and subsequent selection stages as specified in the official notification.

The Territorial Army Act was enacted in 1948 and the Territorial Army was formally inaugurated on 9 October 1949. It developed as a system allowing citizens to combine civilian employment with military service and has continued to support the regular Army when required.

The Territorial Army operates as a supporting military organization under the broader framework of the Indian Army. It includes territorial units and formations that can be called out for training, support or operational duties according to applicable law and military requirements.