Republic Day 2026 parade: Camels, ponies and dogs to march on Kartavya Path; Army’s four-legged warriors make historic debut
NEW DELHI: India’s Republic Day parade in 2026 will feature a rare and striking spectacle, with an animal contingent of the Indian Army marching along Kartavya Path for the first time, highlighting their vital role in military operations across extreme terrains. According to news agency ANI, a specially curated animal contingent of the Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) will take part in the parade, showcasing endurance, sacrifice and India’s unique high-altitude defence capability.The contingent will include two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, ten Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs currently in service. Together, they reflect the Indian Army’s blend of tradition, innovation and growing focus on self-reliance.Leading the column will be the Bactrian camels, recently inducted for deployment in Ladakh’s cold desert regions. Adapted to freezing temperatures, low oxygen levels and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kg and travel long distances with minimal water and feed. Their induction has strengthened logistics and patrol capabilities along the Line of Actual Control, especially in sandy stretches and steep terrain. Marching alongside them will be the Zanskar ponies, an indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh. Despite their small size, these ponies can carry 40 to 60 kg at extreme altitudes and temperatures that can fall to minus 40 degrees Celsius. Since being inducted in 2020, they have operated in some of the toughest locations, including the Siachen Glacier, and are used for logistics and mounted patrols covering long distances.The formation will also feature four raptors, used by the Army for bird-strike control and surveillance, highlighting the innovative use of natural abilities for operational safety.Another key highlight will be the Army dogs, often referred to as the Army’s “silent warriors”. Trained at the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, they support counter-terrorism operations, explosive detection, tracking, guarding and disaster response. Many have earned gallantry awards for acts of bravery.As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India push, the Army has increasingly inducted indigenous dog breeds such as Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam. Their presence on Kartavya Path will underline India’s drive for self-reliance in defence.