Assam Rifles To Induct Indigenous Dog Breeds Under Atmanirbhar Bharat

assam-rifles/">Assam Rifles is set to induct Indian dog breeds into its canine squad as part of the Centre’s push for indigenisation under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The country’s oldest paramilitary force has already introduced the Tangkhul Hui breed from Manipur as a pilot project and plans to begin inducting the Kombai breed from Tamil Nadu in April.

Full induction of both indigenous breeds is targeted by March 2027, with training being conducted at the Assam Rifles Dog Training Centre (ARDTC) in Jorhat, Assam.

Focus On Indigenous Breeds

The move follows directives from the Union home ministry encouraging greater use of Indian breeds in security forces. Officials stated that indigenous dogs are disease-resistant and well-suited to local climatic conditions.

Six Tangkhul Hui dogs were inducted in 2022 under a pilot initiative and are currently deployed in narcotics detection roles. The Kombai, known for its agility and guarding instincts, will be the next breed to join the force.

Current Strength And Training Infrastructure

Assam Rifles has an authorised strength of 344 dogs but currently operates 253 across the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir. These are supported by more than 1,200 trained handlers.

The ARDTC in Jorhat houses 104 dogs and 174 handlers undergoing various stages of training. Courses include basic handling, obedience, tracking, explosive detection and narcotics detection. Selected personnel receive advanced training at specialised centres before returning as instructors.

Operational Roles And Expansion Plans

The dog squad has played a significant role in counter-insurgency and anti-narcotics operations. Officials cited a major narcotics seizure from Myanmar in September 2025 where canine units were instrumental.

Plans are underway to expand operational capabilities to include dual-purpose assault roles, enhanced explosive detection and potential search-and-rescue functions during natural disasters.

Important Facts for Exams

• Assam Rifles is India’s oldest paramilitary force under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat promotes self-reliance and indigenous manufacturing.
• Tangkhul Hui is a native dog breed from Manipur.
• Kombai is an indigenous breed from Tamil Nadu known for guarding skills.

Boost To Self-Reliance In Security Forces

The induction of Indian breeds aligns with broader efforts to reduce dependence on foreign-origin dogs such as Labradors, German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois. By leveraging native breeds adapted to Indian terrain and climate, Assam Rifles aims to strengthen operational efficiency while advancing the national self-reliance agenda.