The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi, January 1:
Preparations for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations are progressing steadily at India Gate, with rehearsals continuing even as dense fog covered large parts of the National Capital Region on Wednesday.
Thick fog significantly reduced visibility across Delhi, but security personnel, marching contingents and participating units carried on with their scheduled practice at the historic venue. Officials said arrangements are being closely monitored to ensure the smooth conduct of rehearsals despite challenging weather conditions.
Republic Day is celebrated annually on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India.
The Republic Day Parade in 2026 is set to present a rare and striking spectacle, with Indian Army animals marching along Kartavya Path for the first time in a specially curated contingent. Showcased by the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC), the animal contingent will highlight endurance, sacrifice and India’s unique high-altitude military capabilities.
The contingent will include two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors, ten Indian-breed Army dogs and six conventional military dogs currently in service. Together, they represent a blend of tradition, innovation and self-reliance within the Indian Army’s operational framework.
Leading the formation will be Bactrian camels, recently inducted for operations in the cold deserts of Ladakh. Adapted to extreme cold, thin air and altitudes above 15,000 feet, these camels can carry loads of up to 250 kilograms and travel long distances with minimal water and feed, significantly enhancing logistical support and patrol capabilities along the Line of Actual Control.
Marching alongside will be Zanskar ponies, an indigenous mountain breed from Ladakh known for exceptional endurance. Despite their small size, they can carry 40–60 kilograms over long distances at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet and in temperatures as low as 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 in high-risk areas.
The contingent will also feature four raptors used for bird-strike control and surveillance, reflecting the Army’s innovative use of natural capabilities to enhance operational safety.
Another major highlight will be the Army Dogs, often referred to as the “Silent Warriors” of the Indian Army. Trained and nurtured by the RVC Centre and College in Meerut, these dogs play a crucial role in counter-terrorism operations, explosive and mine detection, tracking, guarding, disaster response and search-and-rescue missions. Over the years, Army dogs and their handlers have earned gallantry awards for acts of bravery in both combat and humanitarian operations.
Aligned 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 underline India’s growing focus on self-reliance in defence and the successful integration of native breeds into specialised military roles.
