For the first time, the Indian Army’s animal contingent will march on Kartavya Path in the national capital during the Republic Day Parade 2026. It will showcase the vital role animals play in military operations across some of the country’s most challenging terrains. The contingent will feature two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, 10 Indian-breed Army dogs, along with six conventional military dogs currently in service.
The Indian Army said the specially curated animal contingent of the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) will highlight the contribution of animals in safeguarding the nation’s frontiers. According to the Army, the contingent represents a blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance within its operational ecosystem. Leading the column will be Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh.
A major highlight of the parade will be the Army dogs, often referred to as the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army. Raised and trained by the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs support troops in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions.
