The Indian Army said that the contingent will include two Bactrian camels, known for their ability to operate in the cold deserts of Ladakh.

Historic Debut: Indian Army’s Animal Contingent at Republic Day 2026

The Indian Army will feature a special animal contingent marching on Kartavya Path in New Delhi for Republic Day 2026. According to Indian Army sources and media reports, this is a historic first in the parade’s history. The unit has been curated by the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) to highlight the crucial roles animals play in defence operations across India’s most challenging terrains, particularly in high-altitude and inhospitable regions.

 The Indian Army said that the contingent will include two Bactrian camels, known for their ability to operate in the cold deserts of Ladakh where traditional vehicles struggle. These double-humped camels are adapted to extreme cold and thin air at altitudes above 15,000 feet and can carry heavy loads over long distances with minimal water and feed.

Four Zanskar ponies are also taking part, an indigenous mountain breed renowned for extraordinary endurance. Since their induction in 2020, these ponies have supported logistics and mounted patrols even in areas such as the Siachen Glacier, carrying loads across difficult terrain in low temperatures.

Four raptors, which are used for surveillance and bird-strike control,will also take part, reflecting innovative operational uses of natural capabilities. Additionally, a pack of Army dogs described by the Indian Army as the “silent warriors”, trained for counter-terrorism, explosive detection, search and rescue, and disaster response, will march in the parade.

Officials said the animal contingent symbolises tradition, innovation and self-reliance in India’s defence ecosystem and honours animals’ longstanding contributions to safeguarding the nation’s frontiers.

Source: Times of India