NEW DELHI: For the first time, a carefully curated animal contingent of the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) of the Indian Army will be showcased on Republic Day 2026, highlighting the critical role played by animals in safeguarding the nation's most challenging frontiers.
The Indian Army on Wednesday said, "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."
Together, the Army said, they represent a blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance in the Indian Army's operational ecosystem.
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, Army added.
Leading the column will be the hardy Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh. Perfectly adapted to extreme cold, thin air and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kilograms and traverse long distances with minimal water and feed.
As per the Army, their induction has significantly enhanced logistical support and mounted patrolling capability along the Line of Actual Control in sandy terrain and steep gradients.
Marching alongside will be the Zanskar ponies, a rare and indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh.
Despite their small stature, the Army said, 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 kilometres in a single day, standing shoulder to shoulder with soldiers in high-risk areas.
Reflecting the innovative employment of the birds of prey, using their natural capabilities for operational safety and effectiveness, four raptors will be part of the contingent "Adding sharp-eyed vigilance to the formation." These are used for bird-strike control and surveillance.
A major highlight of the parade will be the Army Dogs, often called the "Silent Warriors" of the Indian Army. Raised, trained and nurtured by the Remount and 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.
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.
Army said that 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.
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 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.
In an important step recently, as first reported by The New Indian Express, the Indian Army, acknowledging the significance of Animal Transport Units comprising the mules, horses, donkeys and dogs, decided that the ATUs will continue at least till 2032.
The Army describes mules of animal transport units as a vital link in the logistics chain in remote regions under most challenging conditions. The logistic convoys have a pivotal role in keeping the axis of maintenance alive in areas where no roads exist.
The Remount and Veterinary Corps is one of the oldest administrative and operational branches of the Indian Army, is responsible for breeding, rearing, and training of all animals used in the army.