The Indian Army’s Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) will feature a specially curated animal contingent in the Republic Day parade for the first time. The display marks moment in the 247-year history of the Corps and marks the operational role of animals in military logistics, reconnaissance and rescue duties. The contingent will be led by Captain Harshita Raghav, one of the first women officers inducted into the RVC in 2023.
About the Remount and Veterinary Corps
The RVC is a specialised branch of the Indian Army responsible for breeding, rearing, training and caring for Army animals. Its assets include horses, mules and Army dogs. The Corps supports operations in difficult terrain, especially in high-altitude regions where vehicles cannot move easily. It also provides veterinary care and assists in counter-terrorism and disaster response.
History and Evolution
The Corps traces its origins to the Stud Department established in Bengal in 1779. It later evolved through several reorganisations, including the Army Veterinary Corps in 1920 and the Indian Remount and Veterinary Corps in 1950. It was formally established as the Remount and Veterinary Corps in 1960. The Corps headquarters is in Meerut. In 1989, it received the President’s Flag for meritorious service.
Animals in the Republic Day Contingent
The parade contingent will include:
- Bactrian camels, suited to the cold deserts of Ladakh and capable of carrying heavy loads.
- Zanskar ponies, known for endurance in sub-zero temperatures and high-altitude terrain.
- Army dogs, trained for explosive detection, tracking, guarding and rescue missions.
- Raptors, reflecting the wider use of trained animals in military tasks.
These animals support logistics and patrol duties in areas such as Ladakh and Siachen.
Women Officers and Operational Role
Candidates with a BVSc & AH degree can join the RVC as Short Service Commissioned officers after selection and training at Meerut. The first batch of women officers joined in 2023. The Corps has also served in Sri Lanka, during the Kargil conflict, and in recent flood relief operations in Wayanad, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Its trained dogs have also been used in counter-terror operations, with some animals making the supreme sacrifice in service.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026