Republic Day parade 2026: In a first, Indian Army’s animal contingent, featuring Bactrian Camels, dogs, Zanskar Ponies to march on Kartavya Path |

The Republic Day Parade 2026, will witness a unique and visually stunning sight when the Indian Army salutes Kartavya Path, for the first time, with a dedicated animal contingent. The special formation will highlight the essential contribution animals continue to make to military operations, especially in some of the most hostile and inaccessible areas of the country. The specially curated animal contingent will be selected from the Army’s Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) and will participate during the Republic Day parade in Delhi, ANI reported. In the animal contingent, there are species reflecting endurance and sacrifice along with India’s unique high-altitude defence capabilities. Two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors (birds of prey), ten colts from the Indian-breed of Army dogs, and six regular military dogs will be a part of the parade. Together, they represent a unique mix of heritage, innovations in operations, and also the growing focus that Indian Army is laying on building self-reliance within the defence ecosystem.Bactrian camels which have been inducted for deployment recently in cold desert areas of Ladakh will be the first to lead the column. These rugged creatures have adapted to life at the highest of elevations, where there are freezing temperatures, lack of oxygen, and altitudes more than 15,000 ft. The camels, some of which can carry 250 kilograms each, are able to travel long distances with minimal water and food. Their induction has enormously boosted the Army’s logistics and patrolling capabilities, especially in sandy stretches and undulating terrains on the Line of Actual Control.Read more: Vande Bharat’s overnight sleeper train to debut in January 2026: First service between Guwahati and Howrah The Zanskar ponies, a hardy indigenous mountain horse breed of Ladakh, are going to participate in the parade too. But despite their sturdy nature, these ponies are renowned for their great action and endurance. They can bear up to 40-60 kilograms in temperatures that dip as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius. Zanskar ponies were inducted into the Army last year, and have been used in some of the most treacherous operational areas that are part of the Siachen glacier. They are commonly used for logistics support and mounted patrol where motor transport is almost impractical. Another highlight will be that of a pack of four raptors. They would also participate in the convoy. These birds are used by the Army on bird-strike control and surveillance missions providing an example of an innovative use of natural instinct to increase safety and effectiveness. Their presence is indicative of how legacy methods are being melded with evolving military needs.Read more: Will India get its first bullet train by 2027? Here’s the latest official update on routes and timelines explained A star attraction of the parade will be Army dogs, known as the Indian Army’s ‘silent warriors.’ Born and trained at the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these animals are also employed for counter-terrorism operations, explosives/mine detection, tracking; guarding;drugging disaster response search and rescue. A large number of them have also earned gallantry awards for their heroic acts in the line of duty. In line with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India policy, the Army has been inducing more and more Indian dog breeds like Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai-, Kombai- and Rajapalayam. Their participation on Kartavya Path in the Republic Day Parade 2026 will be a vibrant showcase of India’s self-reliance narrative, along with honouring our centuries-old culture and tradition that Animals have played in securing our borders.