AI, information warfare, cyber experts could join Territorial Army soon

New Delhi: Advanced discussions are underway in the defence ministry to exponentially expand the Territorial Army's mandate to bring in experts on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, sources aware of the matter told ET.

The issue was discussed at a high-level meeting in the ministry recently, with the Army seeking to expand the role of Territorial Army - a part-time military reserve force consisting of volunteers who retain their civilian jobs - to infuse technical talent.

Sources said that besides AI, experts from the field of information warfare and cybersecurity are also likely to be part of the expanded mandate. Measures could include direct induction of specialised personnel at junior ranks within the Territorial Army. Granting honorary commissions to technical experts are also being planned to encourage volunteers to join the Territorial Army.


Some steps have already been taken - in October 2024, a new Territorial Army Innovation Cell was operationalised to harness expertise in AI, drones and cybersecurity solutions. The cell carries out an annual innovation hackathon and offers internships to talented participants to work within military technical units.

A national-level hackathon, planned for next month, will include several challenges for participating teams, such as bug hunting, developing AI-driven security architectures to scale up national cyber-defence capabilities and creation of digital content.

44,400 personnel, 59 units

At present, the Territorial Army consists of about 44,400 personnel and has 59 units across the country, including infantry battalions and engineering units. It also has ecological taskforces that are involved in environment management and climate change mitigation.