Meet Lieutenant Amit Chaudhary: Leader of the Mixed Scouts Contingent in Republic Day 2026
On January 26, 2026, the Republic Day Parade along Kartavya Path in New Delhi showcased India's military prowess and national unity, with Lieutenant Amit Chaudhary commanding the historic debut of the Mixed Scouts Contingent. This contingent, comprising elite troops from six specialized scout battalions, symbolized the Indian Army's regional diversity and operational resilience in challenging terrains.
Lieutenant Chaudhary, a second-generation officer from the 2 Arunachal Scouts, embodies a legacy of service. His father participated in the Republic Day Parade in 1990, an event that inspired Chaudhary from childhood and now marks a profound personal milestone. In his own words, "As my father has walked the same Kartavya Path, it is a matter of pride for me to be part of the Republic Day parade." This familial connection underscores the enduring commitment of military families to national defence.
The Mixed Scouts Contingent integrates soldiers from the Arunachal Scouts, Sikkim Scouts, Ladakh Scouts, Garhwal Scouts, Dogra Scouts, and Kumaon Scouts. These units are renowned for their expertise in high-altitude and border operations, often in extreme weather conditions. Lieutenant Chaudhary highlighted the contingent's representation, stating, "We are representing all scout battalions, where troops consist of Arunachal scouts, Sikkim scouts, Ladakh scouts, Garhwal scouts, Dogra and Kumaun scouts."
The parade featured the contingent marching with precision, clad in specialized gear designed for sub-zero environments, including the Extreme Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) with three layers for thermal protection, RI boots for snow grip, and Polaroid glasses to shield against intense solar radiation in mountainous regions. This equipment enables effective operations in temperatures below zero degrees, preventing frostbite and ensuring mobility.
The 77th Republic Day Parade emphasized India's combat-ready forces, with the Mixed Scouts Contingent leading the infantry march, demonstrating quiet determination and unmatched resilience. For Lieutenant Chaudhary, commanding this unit not only fulfills a lifelong aspiration but also highlights the Indian Army's evolution, incorporating advanced systems and diverse regional strengths.
In leading this contingent, Lieutenant Amit Chaudhary exemplifies the dedication and professionalism inherent in India's armed forces, bridging generational service while contributing to a display of national pride on one of the country's most significant occasions.
