Centre Grants Army Chief Full Authority to Mobilise Territorial Army Amid Rising Border Tensions

Amid growing tensions along India's northern and western borders with Pakistan, the Central Government has empowered the Chief of Army Staff to call out all officers and enrolled personnel of the Territorial Army (TA) as required—either for specific guard duties or full-scale deployment alongside the regular armed forces.

This authority was formalised through a government notification dated May 6, 2025, issued under Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948.

Key Highlights:

• Full mobilisation powers granted to the Army Chief.
• 14 TA Infantry Battalions approved for embodiment across all Army Commands.
• Mobilisation subject to budget approval; non-Defence Ministry requests must bear costs.
• Powers effective from February 10, 2025, to February 9, 2028.

The directive permits the embodiment of 14 out of the current 32 Territorial Army Infantry Battalions for deployment across various Army Commands, including Southern, Eastern, Western, Central, Northern, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and the Army Training Command (ARTRAC).

However, actual deployment will depend on the availability of budgetary resources. When requested by ministries other than the Ministry of Defence, the financial burden will lie with the respective ministries.

Context of the Move:

The order comes at a critical juncture as India faces increased hostilities from Pakistan, including sustained cross-border drone and missile threats. The announcement follows heightened military activities under Operation Sindoor, which saw India conduct precision strikes on terror camps across the border.

Most recently, during the night of May 8-9, India thwarted a massive drone attack from Pakistan involving over 50 unmanned aerial vehicles attempting to target 15 Indian military sites. High-risk zones included Udhampur, Samba, Jammu, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot. The Indian Army responded swiftly, deploying advanced air defence systems including L-70 guns, Zu-23mm cannons, Schilka platforms, and modern counter-UAS systems.

In a statement, the Ministry of Defence said,

“The threats were swiftly neutralised using kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities. India remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens.”