For the first time, the Indian Army’s animal contingent will march along Kartavya Path during the Republic Day 2026 parade, symbolising endurance, sacrifice and India’s unique high-altitude military capability.
A carefully curated animal contingent from the Indian Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) will feature a mix of animals that have supported troops in harsh conditions, highlighting the critical role they play in safeguarding the nation’s most challenging frontiers.
The contingent will feature two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, ten Indian breed Army dogs, along with six conventional military dogs already in service.
Leading the column will be two Bactrian camels, specially inducted to improve logistics and patrol support in the cold deserts of Ladakh.
These camels thrive even above 15,000 feet, carrying up to 250 kilograms across unforgiving terrain with minimal water and feed.
Following the camels will be four Zanskar ponies, an indigenous mountain breed known for remarkable endurance. Despite their small size, these ponies can carry heavy loads across rugged landscapes where vehicles simply can’t go and have proven their mettle in extreme cold and thin air.
Also included in the lineup will be four Raptors, used for specialised surveillance and bird-strike control.
One of the most anticipated parts of the march will be the Army dogs. Raised and trained at the RVC Centre in Meerut, these dogs assist troops in counter-terrorism missions, mine and explosive detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response, and search-and-rescue operations.
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Over the years, many of these dogs and their handlers have earned gallantry awards for acts of courage in both combat and humanitarian operations.
Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the contingent also includes indigenous dog breeds like the Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai, and Rajapalayam.
