Army General Suggests Ecological Territorial Army for Jharkhand
Chief Minister Champai Soren advocates for a Tribal Regiment, while Army proposes environmental conservation force during high-level meeting.
RANCHI – Chief Minister Champai Soren met with Lieutenant General Ramchandra Tiwari, discussing the formation of a Tribal Regiment and an Ecological Territorial Army for Jharkhand.
During a high-level meeting on Tuesday, Chief Minister Champai Soren and Lieutenant General Ramchandra Tiwari, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command, engaged in discussions about significant military initiatives for Jharkhand and tribal representation in the armed forces.
Chief Minister Soren expressed his desire for the establishment of a Tribal Regiment in the Indian Army, similar to existing regiments like the Jat, Bihar, Punjab, Sikh, and Madras Regiments. He emphasized that such a regiment would provide a distinct identity to tribals across the country, including within the Army.
Ecological Territorial Army Proposal
Lieutenant General Tiwari proposed the formation of an Ecological Territorial Army in Jharkhand, focusing on environmental conservation. This specialized force, comprising former soldiers, would contribute significantly to conservation efforts, particularly in forested and mining areas through afforestation and other means. Chief Minister Soren assured full cooperation from the state upon receiving a formal proposal from the Army.
Opportunities for Tribal Youth
Highlighting the long-standing service of tribal youth from Jharkhand in the Indian Army, the Chief Minister urged for increased opportunities for tribal recruitment. Lieutenant General Tiwari assured that the army, through its local GOC, would offer training and support to prepare tribals for army recruitment.
Durand Cup Support
The Army General expressed gratitude for the State Government’s support in organizing the Durand Cup Football tournament. Also known as the President’s Cup, this prestigious event is Asia’s oldest and the world’s second-oldest football tournament. With significant backing from the state government, Jamshedpur is set to host the tournament this year.
The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including CM’s Additional Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Lieutenant General Rajendra Puri, CM’s Secretary Arwa Rajkamal, Major General Paramvir Singh Dagar, Colonel V.S Aadkar, and Major General MP Singh.
