From the icy heights of Siachen to the cold deserts of Ladakh and disaster-hit civilian areas, these animals have quietly shared the burden of duty, courage and sacrifice.
This Republic Day, Kartavya Path will witness a rare and stirring spectacle as animals of the Indian Army march in step, embodying endurance, sacrifice and India’s unmatched high-altitude military capability.
According to the Army, for the first time ever, a specially curated animal contingent of the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) will be showcased at the Republic Day parade, highlighting the indispensable role played by animals in securing India’s most challenging frontiers.
The contingent will feature two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, 10 Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs currently in service. Together, they represent a unique blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance within the Army’s operational ecosystem.
Leading the formation will be the hardy Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh. Exceptionally adapted to extreme cold, thin air and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kg while traversing long distances with minimal water and feed. Their induction has significantly strengthened logistical support and mounted patrolling capabilities along the Line of Actual Control, particularly in sandy terrain and steep gradients, the Army added.
Extraordinary endurance
The Army further informed that marching alongside them will be the Zanskar ponies, a rare indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh. Despite their small size, these ponies are known for extraordinary endurance, capable of carrying 40 to 60 kg over long distances at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet and in temperatures plunging to minus 40 degrees Celsius. Inducted in 2020, they have served in some of the harshest terrains, including the Siachen Glacier, supporting logistics and mounted patrols that can cover up to 70 km in a single day.
Adding a dimension of aerial vigilance will be four raptors, employed for bird-strike control and surveillance, showcasing the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities to enhance operational safety and effectiveness.
A major highlight of the parade will be the Army dogs, often referred to as the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army. Raised, trained and nurtured by the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs play a vital role in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions. Over the years, several Army dogs and their handlers have been honoured with gallantry awards for acts of exceptional courage in combat and humanitarian operations.
Indigenous dog breeds
In line with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, the Army has increasingly inducted indigenous dog breeds such as Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam. Their presence on Kartavya Path will underscore India’s growing self-reliance in defence and the successful integration of native breeds into specialised military roles.
As the animal contingent marches past the saluting dais on Republic Day 2026, it will serve as a poignant reminder that India’s defence strength is built not by machines and soldiers alone. From the icy heights of Siachen to the cold deserts of Ladakh and disaster-hit civilian areas, these animals have quietly shared the burden of duty, courage and sacrifice.
They will march not merely as support elements, but as warriors on four legs — living symbols of resilience, loyalty and the Army’s unwavering resolve to protect the nation under all conditions, the Army added.
source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)