Republic Day Parade: Majestic Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies and other animals make debut at Kartavya Path

Dogs, camels and ponies stole the spotlight at this year’s Republic Day parade on Monday, as a rare contingent of “animal soldiers” made its debut on Kartavya Path, marching alongside thousands of uniformed personnel during the 90-minute ceremony in New Delhi.

The uniquely assembled Him Yodha contingent brought into focus the Indian Army’s enduring dependence on animals and specialised support systems for sustaining troops in some of the world’s most unforgiving environments - from the icy heights of the Siachen Glacier to the rugged Himalayas and forward areas along the Line of Control and the Line of Actual Control.

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Leading the contingent was Captain Harshita Yadav, an officer from the first batch of the Army’s Remount and Veterinary Corps and the daughter of a retired Indian Air Force officer. The formation was guided by the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, reflecting the unity between soldiers, animals and machines in extreme frontline conditions.

At the forefront were Bactrian camels from Ladakh, recently inducted for high-altitude logistics. Perfectly suited to cold deserts and thin air above 15,000 feet, these hardy animals can carry loads of up to 200–250 kg across sandy terrain and steep gradients, providing critical supply support in remote border areas such as Galwan and Nubra.

Marching alongside them were Zanskar ponies, an endangered indigenous breed from Ladakh’s high valleys, which appeared on Kartavya Path for the first time. Long deployed in the icy reaches of Siachen and along the LAC, the ponies are used for patrolling and transporting supplies where vehicles cannot operate.

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The contingent also showcased trained birds of prey, including Black Kites, described as vigilant aerial sentinels that assist in surveillance and anti-drone roles beyond forward lines. Their inclusion highlighted the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities alongside modern technology.

Adding a mechanised edge were Glacier All-Terrain Vehicles, rugged snowmobiles that serve as logistical lifelines in the world’s highest battlefield. Capable of carrying heavy loads and evacuating casualties in sub-zero conditions, these vehicles complement animal transport in ensuring uninterrupted support to troops.

Five indigenously bred Army dogs followed, including Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam. Trained for patrol, detection and assault roles, these dogs are now deployed alongside foreign breeds.

Equipped with bullet-resistant jackets, cameras, GPS trackers and communication systems, they have emerged as vital force multipliers in counter-insurgency and high-risk operations.