Indian Army's Animal Contingent to March on Republic Day 2026

The contingent will feature two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, 10 Indian-breed Army dogs, along with six conventional military dogs currently in service. The Indian Army said the specially curated animal contingent of the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) would highlight the contribution of animals in safeguarding the nation’s frontiers.

According to the Army, the contingent represents a blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance within its operational ecosystem.

Leading the column will be Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh. Well adapted to extreme cold, thin air and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kg and cover long distances with minimal water and feed. Their induction has significantly strengthened logistical support and mounted patrolling along the Line of Actual Control in sandy terrain and steep gradients.

Marching alongside will be Zanskar ponies, a rare indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh. Despite their small size, the ponies are known for exceptional endurance, carrying loads of 40 to 60 kg over long distances at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet and in temperatures dropping to minus 40º C. Since their induction in 2020, they have served in some of the harshest terrains, including the Siachen Glacier. Apart from logistics, they play a key role in mounted patrols, sometimes covering up to 70 km in a single day.

The formation will also include four raptors, used for bird-strike control and surveillance, reflecting the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities to enhance operational safety.

A major highlight of the parade will be the Army dogs, often referred to as the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army. Raised and trained by the Remount and Veterinary Corps at the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs support troops in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions. Over the years, Army dogs and their handlers have displayed remarkable courage, earning gallantry awards and commendations.

Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the Army has increasingly inducted indigenous dog breeds such as Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam. Their presence on Kartavya Path will underline India’s push for self-reliance in defence and the successful integration of native breeds into specialised military roles.

The Indian Army said the marching animal contingent would serve as a reminder that the nation’s defence strength rests not only on soldiers and machines, but also on animals that have shared the burden of duty, courage and sacrifice, from the icy heights of Siachen and the cold deserts of Ladakh to disaster-hit civilian areas.