India, Jan. 25 -- This year, crowds in the national capital will be treated to a visual treat as two majestic Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus) named 'Galwan' and 'Nubra', will walk down Kartavya Path in the Republic Day Parade.

The camels will be part of the 'Animal Contingent' and will march along with Zanskar ponies, an indigenous pony from Ladakh's Zanskar region, raptors & Army dogs (mostly indigenous breeds like Rajapalayam, Chippiparai, Mudhol, Kombai and Rampur) led by the Remount & Veterinary Corps.

'Galwan' and 'Nubra' are named after places in the cold desert of Ladakh, the only place in India where this species is found.

The connection with Ladakh is not surprising as for most of its history, the cold desert was an indep...