Maj Gen Ranjan Mahajan (Retd)
In November, a recruitment campaign for the Home and Hearth (H&H) Territorial Army (TA) took place under the leadership of the Northern Command, running from 8th to 27th November. This initiative aimed to create valuable job opportunities for the youth of the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh. The drive witnessed an extraordinary and unprecedented turnout, which underscores the Indian Army’s proactive approach to tackling unemployment challenges that the youth in these territories face. The success of the recruitment rallies in Surankote & Doda in the Jammu region, as well as in Panzgam, Ganthmulla (near Baramulla), Srinagar, and in Leh & Kargil in UT Ladakh, speaks volumes about the Army’s commitment to promoting growth and development in the area.
The UT of J&K has been severely affected by unemployment issues, with both urban and rural communities facing significant challenges. Various socio-economic factors, including political instability and limited job opportunities in the manufacturing and services sectors, have exacerbated these issues. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) employment report 2024, the unemployment rate in J&K has risen to a worrying 21%, sharply increasing from 4.21% as indicated by the 2001 census. J&K’s unemployment rate is consistently higher than the national average, with the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) reporting it at 25%, while the national average is 7.6%. Haryana leads all Union Territories and states in unemployment, with J&K closely following.
The scarcity of a robust private sector in J&K compels many individuals to seek government employment, particularly in the Armed Forces, which is frequently noted as a major factor in the region’s rising unemployment. The pressing desire among youth for government roles is evident from the overwhelming response to job offers. Notably, ILO estimates reveal that while 58.7% of young people are highly qualified, only 6.3% are employed in the formal sector, leaving approximately 80.8% categorized as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). Thus, improving job placement is of utmost importance.
The Relevance of H&H TA in J&K H&H TA units consist mainly of local “Sons of the Soil,” who possess vital knowledge of the region’s terrain, culture, and socio-political context, significantly augmenting operational effectiveness. Their local insights and connections complement the efforts of the Army & Rashtriya Rifles, playing a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in the area. Key contributions of H&H TA units include:
* Real-time & accurate Human Intelligence (HUMINT) arising from their strong local bonds and understanding, facilitating precise intelligence gathering.
* Counter-Infiltration and Border Security, thanks to their presence in critical areas and established understanding of terrorist strategies.
* Their recruitment and deployment are more cost-effective in comparison to the establishment and maintaining of new regular Army battalions, thereby decreasing the operational load on the regular Army and allowing a focus on strategic goals.
* Their deep local roots bridge the gap between civilians and the military, effectively fostering goodwill and minimizing misunderstandings or hostility.
* They have significantly contributed to high-profile Counter-Terrorism operations, functioning as first responders and intelligence providers.
* They form a cornerstone of operational excellence in J&K, illustrating an effective model of community-oriented defense.
The TA units played active roles in operations during 1962, 1965, and 1971. The “Terriers” also participated notably in OP PAWAN in Sri Lanka, OP RAKSHAK in Punjab and J&K, along with OP RHINO and OP BAJRANG in the Northeast. The Territorial Army is integrated with the Regular Army, tasked presently with alleviating the Regular Army of static duties and assisting Civil Administration during natural disasters and essential service maintenance when community safety or national security is under threat. They also provide units to the Regular Army when needed.
The officers and soldiers of the Territorial Army have been recognized for their bravery and distinguished service, earning over 400 awards, including the prestigious peacetime honors “Ashok Chakra,” Kirti Chakra, Vir Chakra, Shourya Chakra, and Sena Medals. I take personal pride in my association with many TA soldiers during my Command of the RR Battalion & Machhal Brigade. Lance Naik Nazir Wani’s contributions to anti-terrorist operations led to his enrolment in the 162 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry in 2003, aimed at rehabilitating the “Ikhwans” and other patriotic youth from the Kashmir Valley.
His military service since 2003 is marked by acts of valor and courage. For exhibiting outstanding bravery, intelligence, and comradeship, Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani received the ‘Sena Medal’ in an operation in January 2007 while I was the Commanding Officer. He was additionally awarded the ‘Bar to Sena Medal’ for his exceptional bravery, quick thinking, and commitment during an operation on 14 November 2017. Tragically, for his unparalleled bravery and ultimate sacrifice in duty in November 2018, Lance Naik Nazir Ahmad Wani, SM was honored with the ASHOK CHAKRA (POSTHUMOUSLY).
Recruitment Drive Under the leadership of Lt Gen M.V. Suchendra, Army Commander, Northern Command, a fresh approach was taken to improve outreach and provide equitable opportunities for all candidates through professionally organized recruitment rallies. This strategy aimed to identify and select the most qualified candidates to fulfill the evolving operational demands of the Indian Army, aligning skills with future requirements. By implementing innovative outreach strategies, Northern Command effectively attracted suitable talent for the right positions, ensuring peak preparedness and efficiency. Candidates who missed prior opportunities to enlist in the TA due to recruitment being halted during the COVID-19 pandemic finally had a chance to pursue the chance for recruitment into the TA and “Live Life Extraordinary.” The Indian Army’s constant endeavor to seek and select the best candidates was reflected in the recent TA recruitment rallies. Awareness was raised among candidates regarding the need to avoid falling prey to touts and stay away from performance-enhancing drugs during the rally.
The Northern Command has been consistently active in its promotional efforts, greatly enhancing participation in the recruitment campaign. These initiatives have countered the growing perception of diminishing appeal in pursuing army careers, reinforcing its status as a respected and rewarding profession. This dynamic approach illustrates the Command’s commitment to engaging with communities and strengthening national defense forces with skilled and passionate personnel.
Three categories were open for recruitment: Soldier (General Duty), Soldier (Clerk), and Soldier Tradesmen. Various trades were available for application even for 8th pass individuals, including Chef, Cook Mess, Chef Special, Equipment Repairer, Steward, Artisan Metallurgy, Artisan Woodwork, Dresser, Masalchi, Tailor, Housekeeper, and Washer Man.
The TA recruitment drive in J&K has attracted an extraordinary response, demonstrating the enthusiasm of the region’s youth to serve the nation while seizing new opportunities for personal and professional advancement. Notably, 1,901 vacancies—almost four times the previous number—were allocated for this recruitment cycle in J&K, drawing over 91,000 applicants. Among them, around 12,000 candidates successfully completed the rigorous Physical Fitness Test. Subsequently, over 6,400 candidates were declared medically fit, while the rest are undergoing further evaluations with specialists at various Military and Command Hospitals. Once fully cleared, these qualified candidates will move on to the written examination, the final phase of the selection process. Originally set for the second week of January 2025, this examination has been postponed, and fresh dates will be communicated in due course. Those who excel in the merit list will soon join their designated Regimental Training Centres, launching their journey to serve in the TA and the nation. The training centers include JAKLI Regimental Centre (Srinagar), JAKRIF Regimental Centre (Jabalpur), PUNJAB Regimental Centre (Ramgarh), SIKHLI Regimental Centre (Fatehgarh), DOGRA Regimental Centre (Faizabad), BEG Centre, Kirkee, Pune, and Ladakh Scout Regiment Centre (Leh).
The immense response underscores not only the commitment of the youth in J&K but also the significant influence of such initiatives in promoting employment and national integration. This remarkable participation reflects the growing trust in efforts striving for peace and development in the region. The TA offers a unique avenue for young people to channel their efforts productively while contributing to the socio-economic transformation of J&K and Ladakh. Beyond providing employment, it fosters a sense of pride and community, encouraging young individuals to take an active role in their communities’ advancement. The success of this recruitment drive reaffirms the potential of such initiatives to inspire confidence, promote inclusivity, and encourage positive change in the region.
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