Terrorism is prime source of concern: Antony

Monday, October 19, 2009 13:59 IST
The Defence Minister Shri AK Antony has said that terrorism continues to be a prime source of concern, not just for India, but the entire world. Addressing the 60th Anniversary Parade of the Territorial Army, here today, Shri Antony said as the country assumes an increased role in defining international policies and initiatives, the need of the hour is to secure the environment, both external and internal. “Given the security concerns of the times we live in, our Armed Forces have a particularly crucial role to play in securing our country from external and internal threats,” he said.

Commending the Territorial Army for setting the benchmark of professionalism since its inception, the Defence Minister said the Citizens’ Army has a great responsibility in augmenting the regular Army, be it during war, national emergencies for peace. He lauded the Territorial Army’s role, especially the Infantry and Home & Hearth Infantry Battalions, Departmental units from the railways, oil sector and the general hospital. Shri Antony said the Ecological (TA) Battalions are unique the world over. “The untiring efforts of the ‘Green Warriors’ in afforestation, environment development and preservation of the fragile ecology in various parts of the country is praiseworthy,” he added.

Shri Antony called upon the youth to enrol themselves for the part time and voluntary uniformed force. Since the country cannot afford to maintain an unduly standing Army, “there is need for more passionate young men from all walks of life to join the Territorial Army and experience the pride of serving and defending the nation, while continuing with their respective professions,” he said. Raised by C. Rajagopalachari, the first Governor General of free India, on October 09, 1949, the Territorial Army is celebrating its diamond jubilee year. Having won five Vir Chakras and three Shaurya Chakras, the TA has seen many eminent personalities including renowned cricketer Kapil Dev (Honorary Lt. Col.), Malayalam film actor Mohan Lal (Honorary Lt. Col.), former ONGC CMD Shri Subir Raha (Major-Retired), Shri Doshehe Y Sema (Major), a member of the Nagaland state assembly and several others, donning uniform.
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Terrorism is prime source of concern: Antony

New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) The Territorial Army, a reserve force of trained civilians to aid the Indian Army, completed 60 years of existence Friday and aims to woo more youngsters and working professionals to join its ranks.
“On the 60th anniversary, we are working towards tapping young talent from the corporate, engineering, IT and other fields,” said a senior officer of the Territorial Army.

Read more: Territorial Army, 60, to woo youngsters