Ahmedabad, Oct 29 (NationPress) The Border Security Force’s (BSF) renowned Camel Contingent, previously recognized as the Ganga Singh Risala of the Bikaner princely state, will proudly participate in the forthcoming Ekta Parade at the Statue of Unity. Two units, totaling 52 camels transported from Jodhpur in customized vehicles, will grace the event.

This contingent, celebrated for its majestic presence during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, boasts a rich history that stretches back to the early 20th century.

The roots of this contingent can be traced to the Bikaner Camel Corps, a regiment initiated by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, who modernized his military by forming a specialized unit of camel-mounted soldiers to patrol the desert borders.

Originally known as the Ganga Singh Risala, this force was later amalgamated into the Indian Army post-Independence. In 1965, with the inception of the Border Security Force, the responsibilities of the Camel Regiment were formally transferred to the BSF.

Today, the Camel Contingent symbolizes India’s desert defense and cultural legacy. It remains an integral part of the BSF, taking part in ceremonial roles during national occasions and embodying the spirit of India’s frontiers. The camels, primarily sourced from the Jaisalmer and Bikaner breeds, are meticulously selected based on criteria such as height, weight, strength, and their ability to thrive in desert environments.

While Jaisalmeri camels are celebrated for their endurance and speed, Bikaneri camels are esteemed for their strength and capacity to bear loads. Once they join the contingent, each camel is allocated a dedicated rider responsible for their training, care, and even naming. The most disciplined camels lead the formations during parades.

The riders, easily identifiable by their long moustaches, saffron turbans, and traditional garb, undergo extensive training to perfect their camel riding skills and parade maneuvers.

“Camel riding requires the rider’s body to synchronize with the animal’s movements. It is both an art and a discipline,” explained a BSF official.

During the mid-1980s, BSF officer K.S. Rathod significantly reinforced the Camel Contingent, establishing a dedicated training facility in Jodhpur. In 1986, the BSF also launched the Camel Band, a distinctive musical unit where performers play music while riding camels — a challenging endeavor demanding exceptional balance and coordination.