The Indian Army is considering the inclusion of India’s Olympian and former world champion boxer, Mary Kom, as an officer. If approved, she will be welcomed into the Territorial Army (TA) as an honorary officer. It’s understood that discussions regarding bestowing an honorary rank upon Mary Kom are ongoing.
Historically, the TA has granted honorary ranks to prominent individuals from various sectors. Presently, Kapil Dev, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, and Abhinav Bindra carry the title of honorary lieutenant colonels in the Territorial Army. Meanwhile, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar is recognized as an honorary group captain with the Indian Air Force (IAF).
From the political arena, Anurag Thakur and Sachin Pilot hold honorary titles as captain and lieutenant respectively. The corporate sector’s Subir Raha has also been affiliated with the TA. Insiders highlight that such celebrity affiliations amplify the “public image of the Territorial Army” and these figures are often approached to champion “national causes.” Their motivational impact is evident when they visit and engage with military units, an insider mentioned. Embracing inclusivity, the TA mirrors the Indian Army in its pursuit to be a gender-neutral institution.
