For the first time, a carefully curated animal contingent from the Indian Army's Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) made its debut at the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path. The contingent showcased the crucial roles animals play in safeguarding the nation, especially in challenging terrains.
Leading the contingent were two majestic Bactrian camels named 'Galwan' and 'Nubra,' after regions in Ladakh. These camels, part of the 'Animal Contingent,' marched alongside Zanskar ponies, indigenous to the Zanskar region of Ladakh. The parade also featured raptors and Army dogs, including indigenous breeds like Rajapalayam, Chippiparai, Mudhol, Kombai, and Rampur, all led by the Remount & Veterinary Corps. In total, the contingent included two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, ten Indian-breed Army dogs, and six conventional military dogs.
The inclusion of the Bactrian camels and Zanskar ponies highlighted the army's logistical support capabilities in deserts and high-altitude regions, where vehicles often struggle. The Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Black Kites, with trained falcons named Karan and Arjun, also participated, showcasing a unique counter-drone capability and a natural response to low-cost aerial threats.
Captain Harshita Raghav from the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) commanded the animal contingent, marking a historic moment for women in the specialized corps. As one of the first women officers in the RVC, her selection underscores the growing role of women in all aspects of the Indian military. Captain Raghav emphasized the distinctiveness of the animal contingent and the specialized neuroscience-based training the animals underwent, highlighting the RVC's innovation in merging traditional and modern animal roles in defense strategies.
The RVC is one of the Indian Army's oldest administrative and operational branches, responsible for breeding, rearing, and training animals used by the army. The animal contingent's debut on Kartavya Path served as a reminder that India’s defense strength relies not only on soldiers and machines but also on the contributions of animals. The participation of these animals symbolized the blend of tradition, innovation, and self-reliance within the Indian Army's operational framework.
