Thaindian News

New Delhi, Aug 4 (IANS) Donning the olive green uniform was a childhood dream for some. For others, weapons training was the main attraction. Whatever their reasons, many of India’s young MPs will soon join the Territorial Army, which enables civilians to help strengthen the country’s defence.
Around 30-odd MPs Tuesday thronged the defence ministry to attend a presentation given by the Territorial Army after many elected representatives expressed interest to join the force.

“It has been my childhood dream to join the army. I did not get a chance earlier and joining the Territorial Army would give me the opportunity. Anytime soon you can see me in the army uniform,” said Deependra Hooda, the young MP from Rohtak in Haryana, after attending the presentation.

The youngest MP in the Lok Sabha, Muhammed Hamdulla Sayeed also decided to join the Territorial Army. “I will be joining at the earliest,” Sayeed told media persons.

The 30-minute presentation by Maj Gen K.V.S. Lalotra, the additional director general of Territorial Army, invited a volley of questions from the interested politicians.

Hooda asked, “Is there any flexibility in the training schedule for us and are women also allowed to join?”

The Territorial Army is a voluntary, part-time Citizen’s Army, consisting of people who are not professional soldiers but civilians eager to do their bit for the country’s defence. It acts as a reserve for the regular army in times of need and draws men from the 18-42 age group.

Navin Jindal, who represents Haryana’s Kurukshetra seat in the Lok Sabha, asked: “If we join the Territorial Army, will we be allowed to keep personal weapons?”

Sayeed, who represents Lakshadweep, was interested to know if the Territorial Army has a coastal wing as well.

“We had coastal batteries but they now come under the navy. However, we do have a unit in the Andamans. And according to the threat perception to a territory and demand projection, we decide (on) raising a unit,” replied Lalotra.

Jindal said: “Arms are part of the attraction to join the army and for some it is a natural passion. I think that it will be a great motivator for people to join the force.”

Among other young MPs who attended the presentation were Akhilesh Singh Yadav, Kapilesh Singh Deo and Jayant Choudhary.

The presentation was part of the Territorial Army’s campaign to motivate more people to join the force.

“When civilians come and join us, they bring the goodwill of the people and the motivation level is different. There is a connect between the soldier and the citizen,” Lalotra said.

In recent times former India cricket captain Kapil Dev and Malayalam film super star Mohanlal have joined the Territorial Army.