Can MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar join the troops in amid tensions in India-Pakistan? This is what the rules say

India launched a retaliation for Operation Sindoor following the terrorist attack on Pahalgam. Pakistan has been posing an ongoing threat ever since. The Indian army is ready to face any challenges, and all three military branches are ready to take action. As a result, tensions between India and Pakistan reached an all-time high. In this climate, cricketers, like former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and legendary Sachin Tendulkar, hold positions in the Indian army and will be summoned to the front if war breaks out.

In the latest news, the government granted the Army Chief of Staff to expand its power to mobilize territorial officers and personnel. This means they can be asked to perform basic responsibilities and, if the situation escalates further, the Army units can be activated.

Part of the Army

These participants are members of the Territory Army, a volunteer organization that trains citizens to respond to emergencies. Dhoni served as a colonel in the unit and often participated in training exercises with soldiers. Although his main role is to provide encouragement and promote organization, Sachin Tendulkar’s affiliation with the Air Force is largely symbolic. His presence is intended to inspire young people to consider joining the Indian Armed Forces.

In the past, the Indian army has awarded many outstanding people with honorary titles. These names include not only Dhoni and Sachin, but also characters such as former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev, shooter Abhinav Bindra, politician Anurag Thakur, Sachin Pilot, Malayalam Supertar Mohanlal and actor Nana Patekar. Each of these men serves in the territorial army. For example, Mahendra Singh Dhoni served as lieutenant colonel in the territory army, came from the parachute regiment and received rigorous training. Similarly, Sachin Tendulkar captured the captain in the Indian Air Force.

What is a territorial army?

Territory is a volunteer service that allows citizens to join, usually recruited during the Army recruitment process. Candidates must meet medical fitness requirements in order to qualify for services. The main purpose of the territory is to provide opportunities for individuals who are unable to join the regular army to serve the state.

There has been debate on the potential deployment of cricketers such as tendulkar and Dhoni during wartime times. Assistance from paramilitary forces is often sought in the face of challenges in Indian troops. Therefore, although this is rare, territorial troops can also be required to serve in wartime. It is worth noting that the Territorial Army made significant contributions to various conflicts, including the Kagir Wars in 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1999.

Previously, the famous Indian cricketer Hemu Adhikari served in World War II as a lieutenant colonel rank. Adhikari demonstrated his talent in 21 Test matches for India. It is worth noting that CK Naidu and Kapil Dev are also respected for the Indian Army’s championship. Although in extreme cases, while unlikely, players like Dhoni and Sachin may be required to conduct military service.

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