Army’s Republic Day contingent
*Induction enhanced patrolling along LAC
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 31: On upcoming Republic Day, animals of the Indian Army including four Zanskar ponies in Kargil district in the Union Territory of Ladakh, will march proudly along Kartavya Path, symbolizing India’s unique high-altitude military capability.
Besides four Zanskar ponies, the contingent will also feature two Bactrian camels, four raptors, ten Indian breed Army dogs, along with six conventional military dogs already in service.
The hardy Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, will lead the column. These camels can carry loads of up to 250 kilograms and traverse long distances with minimal water and feed. They have perfectly adapted to extreme cold and altitudes above 15,000 feet from the sea level.
“Their induction has significantly enhanced logistical support and mounted patrolling capability along the LAC with China in sandy terrain and steep gradients,” officials told the Excelsior.
Marching alongside, the officials said, will be the Zanskar ponies, a rare and indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh. Despite their small stature, these ponies are renowned for extraordinary endurance, carrying 40 to 60 kilograms over long distances at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet and in temperatures dropping to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
“Since their induction in 2020, they have served in some of the harshest terrains, including the Siachen Glacier. Beyond logistics, Zanskar ponies play a key role in mounted patrols, sometimes covering up to 70 kilometers in a single day, standing shoulder to shoulder with soldiers in high-risk areas,” the officials said, adding together, they represent a blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance in the Indian Army’s operational ecosystem.
This will be for the first time that a carefully curated animal contingent of the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) of the Indian Army will be showcased during the Republic Day parade, highlighting the critical role played by animals in safeguarding the nation’s most challenging frontiers.
A major highlight of the parade will also be the Army Dogs, often called the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army. Raised, trained and nurtured by the Remount & Veterinary Corps at the RVC Centre and College, Meerut, these dogs support troops in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions.
Adding sharp-eyed vigilance to the formation will be four raptors, used for bird-strike control and surveillance, reflecting the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities for operational safety and effectiveness, the officials said.
“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 not built 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,” the officials said.
Over the decades, Army dogs and their handlers have displayed exceptional bravery, earning gallantry awards and commendations for acts of courage in combat and humanitarian operations.
Under 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 push towards self-reliance in defence and the successful integration of native breeds into specialised military roles.
“They march not just as support elements, but as warriors on four legs, living symbols of resilience, loyalty and the Indian Army’s unwavering resolve to protect the nation under all conditions,” the officials added.
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