Indigenous Indian Dog Breeds: How BSF Revolutionized Border Security with Native Canines

BSF pioneered the induction of native Indian breeds - Rampur Hound and Mudhol Hound - into national security operations.

Indigenous dog breeds, once esteemed in royal courts and ancient Indian warfare, are now reclaiming their prestigious position in the nation's frontline security forces.

This remarkable transformation began in January 2018 when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Border Security Force's National Training Centre for Dogs (NTCD) at Tekanpur. His emphasis on incorporating Indian dog breeds into national security operations initiated a mission that beautifully merged heritage with modern defense requirements.

The Prime Minister further reinforced this vision during his Mann Ki Baat address on August 30, 2020, where he encouraged citizens to adopt and promote Indian breeds, aligning with the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat and Vocal for Local initiatives. This appeal resonated deeply, sparking renewed national pride and efforts to revitalize India's indigenous canine heritage.

Inspired by this vision, the BSF became the first security force to integrate the Rampur Hound and Mudhol Hound into active service. These native breeds possess exceptional speed, stamina, and resilience, making them perfectly adapted to India's varied climates and operational conditions while requiring significantly less maintenance than foreign breeds.

The Rampur Hound, originating from Uttar Pradesh, was historically bred by the Nawabs of Rampur for hunting large game and jackals, earning renown for its fearlessness and endurance. The Mudhol Hound from the Deccan Plateau has deep connections to Maratha warrior traditions and was later refined by Raja Malojirao Ghorpade of Mudhol, who introduced it to the British as the "Caravan Hound."

The BSF has undertaken extensive training, breeding, and propagation of these breeds at NTCD Tekanpur and its subsidiary K9 centers. Currently, over 150 Indian breed dogs are deployed across multiple operational theaters, from Western and Eastern borders to anti-Naxal operations, delivering impressive results.

A significant achievement came at the All India Police Duty Meet 2024 in Lucknow, where 'Riya,' a Mudhol Hound, made history by claiming both the Best in Tracker Trade and Best Dog of the Meet titles, outperforming 116 foreign breed competitors. This victory symbolized the successful elevation of Indian breeds to international standards.

Another proud moment approaches this Ekta Diwas at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, where a BSF contingent featuring exclusively Indian breed dogs will participate in the parade. The event will include a dog training demonstration highlighting the agility and tactical excellence of these indigenous canines, embodying the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat initiative in action.

Through this initiative, the BSF has not only enhanced its operational capabilities but also championed India's commitment to self-reliance and cultural pride. The success of Indian breeds in national service powerfully demonstrates that the legacy of courage, loyalty, and strength once found in India's royal kennels now guards its borders.