Edited by Elvish Haokip for Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi; May 12, 2026
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday flagged off the first batch of 144 Mizo youths selected for the 166 Infantry Battalion Territorial Army (Home & Hearth), Assam, calling it a “proud and historic day” for the state. The event was held at the Assembly Annexe Building Conference Hall in Aizawl. 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 approving the induction of the personnel. He described the move as a significant step toward strengthening national security while creating new opportunities for Mizoram’s youth.
The first batch comprises 135 men and 9 women who will depart for Shillong on May 15 to complete formalities before training begins next month. While the male recruits will undergo training in Shillong, Meghalaya, the nine female recruits will proceed to Bengaluru. Speaking at the flag-off, Lalduhoma said he was previously unaware of the Territorial Army but immediately appealed to the Centre for a Mizo Battalion after learning about it. Though initial approval was granted for 70 personnel, further negotiations led to clearance for 144 recruits before the process began.
Lalduhoma, an IPS officer-turned-politician, said efforts are already underway to secure additional recruitment quotas for the state. He urged more Mizo youths to consider the Territorial Army, noting that it not only provides employment but also offers “a noble service dedicated to national security” and promotes disciplined living. Addressing the recruits, he said they would serve as pioneers and representatives of Mizo youth, and called on them to uphold the values and character of the Mizo people and bring honour to the state wherever they are posted.
Home Minister K. Sapdanga, who attended the event, said the Territorial Army blends civilian excellence with military discipline, offering honour, dignity, and character-building opportunities. Congratulating the new recruits, he urged them to carry out their duties faithfully and reminded them that “difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations” if they feel discouraged during training. Lt. Col. (Retd) Clement Lalhmingthanga, MLA of Champhai South and Chairman of the Territorial Army Establishment & Coordination Committee, credited the Chief Minister’s sustained initiative for making the Mizo Territorial Army a reality, calling it a historic achievement for Mizoram.
Brig. Manoj Kumar Patel, Commander, TA Group Eastern Command, also praised the Chief Minister’s efforts and expressed gratitude for his role in the establishment of the Mizo unit. He noted that many vacancies remain within the Territorial Army that the force hopes to fill. Officials said recruitment drives are ongoing, with a new advertisement likely to be released around September this year. The flag-off ceremony was also attended by Home Secretary Vanlalmawia, senior state officials, and officers from the Armed Forces and Assam Rifles.
The 166 Infantry Battalion Territorial Army (Home & Hearth) units are raised for local defence and static duties, with personnel drawn from the region. The induction of 144 Mizo recruits marks the first such dedicated intake for the state, aimed at enhancing regional security infrastructure while providing a structured career path for local youth.
