New Delhi: In a significant move reflecting India’s escalating military preparedness, the Ministry of Defence has extended the powers of the Chief of the Army Staff to mobilise the entire Territorial Army (TA) for essential duties and deployment, amid mounting tensions along the northern and western border with Pakistan. Under a notification dated May 6, 2025, issued in accordance with Rule 33 of the Territorial Army Rules, 1948, the government has authorised the Army Chief to call out every officer and enroled personnel of the Territorial Army as needed.
This order comes into force at a time when India is facing sustained cross-border provocations, including missile and drone attacks from Pakistan. The directive specifically approves the embodiment of 14 out of the existing 32 Infantry Battalions of the TA for deployment across all major commands of the Indian Army-including the Southern, Eastern, Western, Central, Northern, South Western, Andaman and Nicobar, and Army Training Command (ARTRAC).
However, the mobilisation will be subject to the availability of budgetary provisions. In cases where deployment is requested by ministries other than the Ministry of Defence, the costs will be borne by the requesting ministries. The order will remain in effect for three years, from February 10, 2025, to February 9, 2028.
On the night of May 8-9, India repelled a massive wave of over 50 drones launched by Pakistan in what appeared to be a coordinated attempt to target at least 15 Indian military installations. Key areas affected included Udhampur, Samba, Jammu, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot, where the Indian Army responded with a robust counter-drone operation using advanced air defence systems like L-70 guns, Zu-23mm, Schilka platforms, and counter-UAS equipment.
