Him Yodha represents the Indian Army’s specialised animal and mobility support units that operate in some of the world’s harshest terrains, including the Himalayas, the Siachen Glacier, and along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC)
The Him Yodha contingent is a unique Indian Army formation that supports soldiers. Pic/PTI
The Him Yodha contingent, a unique Indian Army formation that supports soldiers deployed in extreme high-altitude and icy regions, made a striking appearance at the Republic Day 2026 Parade on Kartavya Path on Monday.
Him Yodha represents the Indian Army’s specialised animal and mobility support units that operate in some of the world’s harshest terrains, including the Himalayas, the Siachen Glacier, and along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC).
The contingent highlights how animals, technology and trained personnel work together to sustain troops in remote and hostile environments.
Led by Captain Harshita Raghav and guided by the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, the Him Yodha contingent featured Bactrian camels, Zanskar ponies, Black Kites, Glacier All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and indigenous Army dogs, according to the ANI.
According to the official description, these animals and support systems play a crucial role in logistics, surveillance and operational support in areas where modern vehicles often cannot function.
Bactrian camels: Endurance in the cold desert
The Bactrian camels from Ladakh’s Galwan and Nubra regions demonstrated their importance in high-altitude logistics. Capable of operating above 15,000 feet, these hardy animals can carry loads of up to 200 kilograms while requiring minimal care.
Highly effective on sandy terrain and steep slopes, they provide vital supply support along the LAC and symbolise endurance and resilience in national service.
77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | HIM Yodha, Bactrian Camel, Zaniskari pony, black kites (raptors) displayed during the Republic Day parade at the Kartavya Path in Delhi
— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026
Five indigenous breed dogs-Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai, and Rajapalayam-trained as attack and patrol… pic.twitter.com/kYgjTBKtNO
Zanskar ponies make historic debut
For the first time, the Zanskar ponies, an endangered indigenous breed from Ladakh’s high valleys, marched on Kartavya Path. These ponies serve in the icy heights of the Siachen Glacier and along the LAC, carrying supplies and assisting in patrol duties.
Their appearance marked a moment of pride, with their hooves echoing courage, sacrifice and silent service to the nation.
Indigenous Indian Army dogs and aerial support
Five indigenous Indian Army dog breeds - Mudhol Hound, Rampur Hound, Chippiparai, Kombai and Rajapalayam - followed the contingent. Trained for attack and patrol duties, these dogs are now serving alongside foreign breeds, as per the ANI.
Equipped with bullet-resistant jackets, cameras, GPS devices and communication systems, they act as force multipliers on the battlefield.
The Him Yodha contingent also included Black Kites, which assist in surveillance and anti-drone operations beyond the LoC, highlighting the Army’s innovative use of natural assets.
Mixed Scouts contingent follows
Marching after Him Yodha was the Mixed Scouts Contingent, led by Lieutenant Amit Choudhary of the 2 Arunachal Scouts. The unit comprised personnel from Sikkim Scouts, Arunachal Scouts, Kumaon Scouts, Ladakh Scouts, Garhwal Scouts and Dogra Scouts.
Drawn from Himalayan regions, these soldiers specialise in high-altitude surveillance and frontier reconnaissance. Their disciplined march reflected the Army’s ethos of ‘Service Before Self’, resilience and constant vigilance.
(with ANI inputs)
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
