Indian Army deploys double-humped Bactrian camels in eastern Ladakh for logistical support

The Indian Army has deployed double humped camels in the tough terrains of eastern Ladakh to aid the troops for logistical support. The double humped camels, Bactrian camels, are mainly used for carrying goods and have been therefore deployed in Jammu and Kashmir by the Army. 

Northern Command of the Indian Army has referred to the deployment of double-humped camels crucial for ensuring last mile delivery. Further, the camels will aid the troops in patrolling. 

Ladakh, a cold desert, is home to the domesticated form of the Bactrian camels is popular among tourists for safaris in the Nubra valley of Jammu and Kashmir. 

“Bactrian (double humped) camels are deployed in Eastern Ladakh as an innovative means for last mile delivery of critical load and mounted patrolling in sandy terrain of plateau," the Army’s Udhampur-based northern command wrote on X.

“The utilisation of camels, generated employment for Awam (public) and also paved way for conservation of fast dwindling population of double humped camels in Ladakh,” the post added.

Last year, the Ladakh administration discussed steps for the welfare of the double humped Bactrian camels in Hunder and suggested that fitness certification for camels may be issued.

Among other things, the administration called for earmarking of a defined area in Nubra for camel shelter and grazing where the camel jockeys can also grow fodder for the animals for winters.