The Khuman Lampak Main Stadium witnessed a different kind of action on Sunday as the Indian Army’s K9 Warriors showcased their operational skills during the Durand Cup.
The demonstration featured Military Working Dogs trained in three key disciplines — explosive detection, tracking and assault — giving spectators an insight into the specialised role these canine units play in military operations.
The K9 teams demonstrated their ability to detect hidden objects, follow scent trails and respond to commands from their handlers. The coordinated performances highlighted the extensive training and close partnership between the dogs and their handlers.
Explosive Detection Dogs are trained to identify explosives and other hazardous materials through their highly developed sense of smell. Their work supports security and force-protection operations.
Tracker Dogs are trained to follow human scent over distances and are used in operations involving the search for suspects or missing persons. Assault Dogs, meanwhile, support troops in specialised combat and counter-terrorism operations, where speed, discipline and responsiveness are critical.
Military Working Dogs are also deployed for tasks such as mine detection, guard duties, infantry patrols, search and rescue, and avalanche rescue in mountainous areas.
The training of these dogs and their handlers is conducted at the Remount Veterinary Corps Centre and College in Meerut. The programme focuses on obedience, scent detection, physical conditioning and operational skills, while also placing significant emphasis on developing trust between the dog and its handler.
German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Belgian Malinois form the core of the Indian Army’s K9 units, owing to their intelligence, stamina and scenting abilities. The Army has also been exploring indigenous breeds, including the Mudhol Hound and Chippiparai, for their suitability to Indian conditions.
In Manipur, K9 teams are deployed in support of military operations, undertaking duties such as explosive detection, tracking and area security. The Durand Cup demonstration provided spectators with a rare opportunity to see some of these capabilities in a public setting.
The presentation drew strong appreciation from the crowd, offering a glimpse into the discipline, training and teamwork that define the Indian Army’s K9 units — partnerships that continue to play an important role in operational duties away from the sporting arena.
(Inputs from Durand Cup Media)
