India’s Republic Day parade in 2026 is set to present a rare and visually powerful tribute to the Indian Army’s unsung partners, as an animal contingent will march down Kartavya Path for the first time in the history of the celebrations.
The specially assembled contingent from the Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) will spotlight the crucial role animals continue to play in safeguarding India’s borders, particularly in some of the world’s harshest and most inaccessible terrains. The display will underline endurance, sacrifice and the Army’s unique operational capabilities in extreme environments.
The contingent will comprise two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, ten Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs currently in active service. Together, they represent a blend of tradition, innovation and India’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in defence preparedness.
At the front of the formation will be the Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold desert regions of Ladakh. Naturally adapted to freezing temperatures, thin air and altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet, these camels are capable of carrying loads of up to 250 kilograms while travelling long distances with minimal water and fodder.
Marching alongside them will be the Zanskar ponies, an indigenous breed native to Ladakh’s high-altitude regions. Despite their compact build, these ponies can carry loads ranging from 40 to 60 kilograms in extreme conditions, with temperatures plunging to minus 40 degrees Celsius.
Adding a unique dimension to the parade will be four raptors, which are employed by the Army for bird-strike control and surveillance. Their presence highlights the innovative use of natural instincts and abilities to enhance operational safety, particularly around airfields and sensitive installations.
Another major highlight of the contingent will be the Army’s canine unit, often referred to as its “silent warriors”. Trained at the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs play a vital role in counter-terrorism missions, explosive detection, tracking, guarding duties and disaster response operations. Over the years, many Army dogs have been honoured with gallantry awards for displaying exceptional courage in the line of duty.
Reflecting the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, the Indian Army has increasingly inducted indigenous dog breeds such as the Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam. Their inclusion underscores a growing confidence in India’s native breeds, which are well-suited to local climatic and operational conditions.
