Indian Army Animal Contingent Parade

For the first time, the India — Indian Army's India — Remount and Veterinary Corps will showcase an animal contingent at the Republic Day 2026 parade along Kartavya Path. This contingent will include Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, raptors, and Indian breed Army dogs, symbolizing endurance, sacrifice, and India's high-altitude military capability. The Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in India — Ladakh, are adapted to extreme cold and high altitudes, enhancing logistical support and patrolling along the Line of Actual Control. Zanskar ponies, an indigenous breed from India — Ladakh, have served in harsh terrains like the India — Siachen Glacier since 2020, supporting logistics and mounted patrols. Raptors are used for bird-strike control and surveillance. The Army dogs, trained by the India — Remount and Veterinary Corps, play vital roles in counter-terrorism, detection, tracking, and rescue missions. The inclusion of indigenous dog breeds aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India visions, underscoring India's push towards self-reliance in defence.