Meet Captain Harshita Raghav, Who Will Command the First-Ever Animal Contingent at Republic Day Parade 2026

For the first time in history, the Indian Army's animal contingent will participate in the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2026, under the leadership of Captain Harshita Raghav from the Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC). This event marks a significant milestone as the contingent makes its debut along Kartavya Path during the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

Captain Raghav, who is among the pioneering group of women officers in the RVC, will be leading the contingent. She is a second-generation military officer and a graduate from Mumbai Veterinary College, where she obtained her BVSc & AH degree and later pursued an MVSc in Wildlife Science. Her selection as the contingent commander is a landmark achievement for women in this specialized corps, which is dedicated to the training, care, and operational deployment of animals within the military.

The animal contingent plays a crucial role in navigating challenging terrains and supporting modern military applications. It features a diverse assembly that includes two Bactrian camels, four Zanskar ponies, four raptors trained for anti-drone missions, ten Indian-breed Army dogs of five indigenous varieties, and six conventional military dogs. This lineup reflects the RVC's proficiency in animal training, which utilizes neuroscience-based techniques to boost operational readiness.

Leading up to the parade, Captain Raghav highlighted the distinctiveness of the animal contingent, emphasizing its visual appeal and the specialized training it underwent. She remarked that the RVC is currently the "centre of attraction" due to this innovative exhibit, which merges traditional and modern animal roles in defense strategies.

Her alma mater, Mumbai Veterinary College, alongside various defense training institutions and alumni networks, has expressed pride in Captain Raghav's achievements. Her career also includes significant contributions to veterinary science, such as her involvement in discussions on animal health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This participation underscores the Indian Army's dedication to inclusivity and innovation while emphasizing the importance of specialized units. As the Republic Day Parade rehearsals continue, they serve as a reminder of India's rich military heritage, cultural diversity, and evolving defense capabilities.