The soldiers of The Salvation Army, the committed laity, are citizens of India living throughout India. They give allegiance to the doctrines and disciplines of the Army. There are approximately 328,000 soldiers in India.
They have signed the Soldier’s Covenant. These soldiers may take on volunteer responsibilities in the congregation or help in the Army’s community outreach. Many soldiers give valuable service in directing and leading youth groups in character-building activities. Some take part in the Army’s musical programs and teach young people to sing and play musical instruments.
As a valuable means of service to the community, soldiers visit the sick and lonely in hospitals and correctional institutions. Community service programs are enhanced by the commitment of soldiers who give their time in the Army’s ministries.
Soldiers abstain from the use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. Selected soldiers are appointed as “local officers”, and trained for their task. This corresponds to a non-commissioned officer in the armed forces. Other members of the congregation are adherents who participate in church activities but have not signed on as soldiers. Adherents may take on some soldier responsibilities.