A contingent of Remounted and Veterinary Corps of the Army practicing for its maiden participation in the Republic Day Parade on the duty line in New Delhi on Wednesday. Photo-ANI
New Delhi, ANI. Republic Day Parade 2026: This year on the occasion of Republic Day, India will witness a rare scene. Indian Army's animal contingent will march on the duty path for the first time. A specially designed animal squad of the Remount and Veterinary Corps of the Indian Army will be on display, highlighting the vital role of animals in guarding the country's most challenging borders.
The contingent will include two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four birds of prey, 10 Indian breed military dogs and six traditional military dogs already in service. All these together present a unique blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance in the operational system of the Indian Army.
Bactrian camels will lead the convoy
The convoy will be led by Bactrian camels, which have recently been inducted for deployment in the cold terrain of Ladakh. Bactrian camels are found in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh. There are two humps on their back.
Perfectly adapted to extreme cold, little wind and altitude of more than 15 thousand feet, these camels can carry a load of up to 250 kg and cover long distances with minimum water and fodder. Their deployment has significantly enhanced logistics support and patrolling capability along the Line of Actual Control in sandy areas and steep slopes.
Zanskar ponies are famous for their endurance
Zanskar ponies of rare and local breed of Ladakh will also walk in the parade. Despite their small stature, these ponies are renowned for their extraordinary stamina. These ponies can cover long distances carrying a load of 40 to 60 kg at an altitude of more than 15 thousand feet and in temperatures up to -40 degrees Celsius.
Since joining the Army in 2020, he has served in some of the most difficult areas including the Siachen Glacier. Apart from logistics services, Zanskar ponies play an important role in mounted patrols. These ponies sometimes cover distances of up to 70 kilometers in a single day and accompany soldiers in risky areas.
birds of prey keep a sharp eye
The contingent will also include four birds of prey to keep a close watch, which will be used to monitor and control damage caused by bird strikes, reflecting the Army's innovative use of natural capabilities for operational security.
Army dogs are called 'silent warriors'
An important attraction of the parade will be the army dogs, often called the "silent warriors" of the Indian Army. Reared and trained by the Mounted and Veterinary Corps at the RVC Center and College, Meerut, these dogs assist the troops in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and landmine detection, tracking, security, disaster relief and search and rescue operations.