Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says the Territorial Army reflects India’s “citizen-soldier” concept and plays multiple roles beyond border readiness. In remarks reported by The Hindu and Times of India, Singh highlights that the force strengthens national capacity by providing surge military capability, while also contributing to internal security and related government priorities. Both outlets note that Territorial Army personnel support disaster response, functioning as first responders during natural calamities and assisting with relief efforts. The reports also describe the force’s involvement in non-military tasks linked to nation-building, including environmental conservation. Times of India additionally points to the creation and work of ecological task forces, citing large-scale sapling planting aimed at supporting national climate and environmental goals. Across both sources, the Territorial Army is presented as bridging the armed forces and society, combining preparedness for emergencies with community-focused activities. The accounts emphasize the force’s wider utility in governance and public service, alongside its traditional security responsibilities.