Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday flagged off the first batch of 144 Mizoram youths selected for the 166 Infantry Battalion Territorial Army (Home & Hearth), Assam. The batch comprises 135 males and nine females, who will depart for Shillong on May 15 for training-related formalities ahead of the commencement of training next month.
A Historic Day for Mizoram
Addressing the event, Lalduhoma described it as “a proud and historic day for Mizoram.” He admitted that he had previously been unaware of the Territorial Army, but upon learning about it, he appealed to the central government to sanction a Mizo battalion. Initially, approval was granted for 70 recruits, but after further negotiations, the sanctioned strength was increased to 144 even before recruitment began.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi for their support. He noted that efforts are underway to secure additional recruitment quotas and urged more Mizo youths to join the Territorial Army, calling it both a source of employment and “a noble service dedicated to national security,” as well as “a path toward disciplined and responsible living.”
Advice to Recruits
Lalduhoma told the recruits that they would serve as pioneers and representatives of Mizo youth. He urged them to give their best, uphold Mizo values wherever they go, and bring honor to the state. Home Minister K Sapdanga said the Territorial Army combines “civilian excellence with military discipline” and offers honor, dignity, and character-building opportunities. He urged the recruits to perform their duties faithfully and reminded them that during difficult phases of training, they should remember, “Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations.”
Commander's Remarks
Commander of TA Group Eastern Command, Brigadier Manoj Kumar Patel, credited the Chief Minister’s initiative for the establishment of the Mizo Territorial Army. He said there are still many vacancies the force aims to fill, encouraging more youths to apply.
Training Locations
Of the 144 recruits, the 135 male recruits will undergo training in Shillong, while the nine female recruits will proceed to Bangalore for their training.
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About the Author
HC Vanlalruata, based at Aizawl, Mizoram, is known for his sharp, on-the-ground reporting as a regional “stinger.” He covers breaking news, ethnic affairs, and border issues from Mizoram, providing real-time updates and local insights for the national daily’s northeast bureau.
