Army’s animal contingent “Silent Warriors” to debut at Republic Day parade

1 JANUARY 2026

This Republic Day, Kartavya Path will witness a rare and stirring spectacle as animals of the Indian Army march in step, embodying endurance, sacrifice and India’s unmatched high-altitude military capability.
According to the Army, for the first time ever, a specially curated animal contingent of the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC) will be showcased at the Republic Day parade, highlighting the indispensable role played by animals in securing India’s most challenging frontiers.
Often referred to as the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army, the contingent will feature two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, 10 Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs currently in service.
Together, they represent a unique blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance within the Army’s operational ecosystem.

Bactrian camels

Leading the formation will be the hardy Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh.
Exceptionally adapted to extreme cold, thin air and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kg while traversing long distances with minimal water and feed.
Their induction has significantly strengthened logistical support and mounted patrolling capabilities along the Line of Actual Control, particularly in sandy terrain and steep gradients.

Zanskar ponies

The Army further informed that marching alongside them will be the Zanskar ponies, a rare indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh.
Despite their small size, these ponies are known for extraordinary endurance, capable of carrying 40 kg to 60 kg over long distances at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet and in temperatures plunging to minus-40 degrees Celsius.
Inducted in 2020, they have served in some of the harshest terrains, including the Siachen Glacier, supporting logistics and mounted patrols that can cover up to 70 km in a single day.

Raptors

Adding a dimension of aerial vigilance will be four raptors, employed for bird-strike control and surveillance, showcasing the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities to enhance operational safety and effectiveness.

Army dogs

A major highlight of the parade will be the Army dogs.
Raised, trained and nurtured by the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs play a vital role in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions.
In line with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, the Army has increasingly inducted indigenous dog breeds such as Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam.
Their presence on Kartavya Path will underscore India’s growing self-reliance in defence and the successful integration of native breeds into specialised military roles.