On Monday, the Army announced the deployment of double-humped camels to provide logistical support to troops stationed in eastern Ladakh. This region, characterized by its cold desert terrain, is home to the domesticated variant of Bactrian camels, renowned for their distinctive double humps. These camels play a crucial role in transporting goods and have gained popularity among tourists for safaris in the Nubra Valley within the Union Territory.
In a statement, the Army’s northern command based in Udhampur highlighted the innovative use of Bactrian camels in Eastern Ladakh for the last-mile delivery of critical loads and mounted patrolling in the sandy plateau terrain. The deployment not only serves operational needs but also contributes to generating employment opportunities for the local population, referred to as Awam (public). Additionally, this initiative has a positive impact on the conservation of the rapidly declining population of double-humped camels in Ladakh.
Accompanying the announcement was a video showcasing the double-humped camels actively involved in their designated roles.
Last year, the Ladakh administration took steps to address the welfare of the double-humped Bactrian camels in Hunder. Among the proposed measures was the issuance of fitness certifications for camels. The administration also advocated for the allocation of a specific area in Nubra dedicated to camel shelters and grazing. This designated space would allow camel jockeys to cultivate fodder for the animals, ensuring their well-being during the winter months.