Republic Day Parade 2026 and Indian Army Animal Contingent Debut

Republic Day Parade 2026 on January 26 is set to present a distinctive chapter in India’s ceremonial history. The parade on Kartavya Path will feature, for the first time, a dedicated animal contingent of the Indian Army, reflecting the armed forces’ continued reliance on animals for operations in some of the world’s most extreme terrains. This addition underscores both tradition and operational innovation within India’s defence ecosystem.

First-Ever Animal Contingent at Republic Day Parade

The highlight of Republic Day Parade 2026 will be the debut of an animal contingent from the Remount & Veterinary Corps. This carefully curated formation will march alongside soldiers, symbolising the enduring partnership between humans and animals in military service. The contingent will showcase how animals remain integral to logistics, surveillance, and combat support in challenging geographical conditions.

Bactrian Camels and Zanskar Ponies in Operational Roles

Leading the column will be two Bactrian camels, inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh. These camels are adapted to extreme cold and high altitudes above 15,000 feet, capable of carrying loads up to 250 kilograms with minimal water. Alongside them will march four Zanskar ponies, an indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh. Known for exceptional endurance, these ponies routinely operate in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Celsius and have supported missions in areas such as the Siachen Glacier since their induction in 2020.

Raptors and Army Dogs as Force Multipliers

The contingent will also include four trained raptors, used by the Army for bird-strike control and aerial surveillance. Another key attraction will be the Army dogs, often referred to as the “Silent Warriors”. Ten Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs will demonstrate the Army’s focus on self-reliance and capability development. Trained by the Remount & Veterinary Corps at Meerut, these dogs play critical roles in counter-terrorism, explosive detection, tracking, guarding, and disaster response.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Remount & Veterinary Corps is responsible for training and managing animals used by the Indian Army.
• Bactrian camels are suited for cold deserts and can operate at altitudes above 15,000 feet.
• Zanskar ponies are an indigenous Ladakh breed inducted into the Army in 2020.
• Army dogs have received gallantry awards for bravery in combat and rescue operations.

Public Access and Parade Viewing Arrangements

To witness Republic Day Parade 2026 in person, spectators must pre-book tickets through official government portals. Based on previous years, ticket booking is expected to open in early January via designated websites, subject to official notification by the Ministry of Defence.