Aizawl: Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday ceremonially sent off the first batch of 144 selected Mizo youths recruited for the 166 Infantry Battalion Territorial Army (Home & Hearth) during a programme held at the Assembly Annexe Building Conference Hall.
The selected candidates, comprising 135 men and 9 women, will leave for training in Shillong on May 15.
The programme was attended by Home Minister K. Sapdanga; Champhai South MLA and Chairman of the Territorial Army (TA) Establishment & Coordination Committee Lt. Col. (Retd) Clement Lalhmingthanga; Home Secretary Vanlalmawia; Commander of TA Group Eastern Command and Shaurya Chakra awardee Brig. Manoj Kumar Patel; along with officers from the Armed Forces, Assam Rifles and other state officials.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Lalduhoma described the occasion as a proud and memorable day for Mizoram. He said that before learning about the Territorial Army, he himself had not been fully aware of its existence, but upon understanding its significance, he immediately approached Central Government leaders requesting the establishment of a Mizo Battalion.
“Initially, we were permitted to recruit only 70 personnel. Before the recruitment process was completed, we requested an increase, and approval was granted for 144 recruits,” he said.
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 supporting the initiative.
He further stated that efforts were ongoing to secure additional recruitment in the future and encouraged more Mizo youths to join the Territorial Army, describing it not only as a source of employment but also as an honourable service dedicated to national security and character-building.
Addressing the selected candidates, Lalduhoma said they would serve as pioneers and role models for future Mizo recruits. He urged them to give their best during training and uphold the values and reputation of the Mizo people wherever they go.
Home Minister K. Sapdanga also addressed the gathering and said the Territorial Army combines civilian excellence with military discipline, bringing dignity, recognition and personal growth. Congratulating the newly selected recruits, he encouraged them to fulfil their responsibilities sincerely and remain mentally strong during training.
“Difficult and challenging roads often lead to beautiful destinations,” he reminded the recruits.
Lt. Col. (Retd) Clement Lalhmingthanga stated that the formation of the Mizo Territorial Army Battalion became possible due to the initiative and efforts of Chief Minister Lalduhoma. He described it as a historic and significant achievement for Mizoram and added that further recruitment was being pursued, with fresh advertisements expected to be issued around September this year.
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Brig. Manoj Kumar Patel also acknowledged the Chief Minister’s role in establishing the Mizo Territorial Army and expressed appreciation for his efforts. He noted that many Territorial Army vacancies still remain and said the authorities hoped to continue recruiting more youths in the future.
Training for the Mizo Territorial Army personnel will begin next month. Before formal training starts, the recruits will first travel to Shillong later this month to complete necessary procedures. The 135 male recruits will undergo training in Shillong, while the 9 female recruits will receive training in Bangalore.
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