Lieutenant General VMB Krishnan, the Quarter Master General (QMG), conducted a two-day visit to the Equine Breeding Stud located in Babugarh, focusing on a thorough evaluation of this key equine breeding facility for the Indian Army. The visit took place from February 24 to 25, 2025, highlighting the establishment’s significant role in producing high-quality horses and mules that support military operations and competitions.
The Equine Breeding Stud is crucial for generating horses that excel in various competitions and producing mules tailored for logistical support, especially in challenging high-altitude environments. This strategic facility is instrumental in ensuring that the Army has access to reliable equine resources, essential for missions in terrains where standard vehicles may not suffice.
One of the noteworthy advancements highlighted during the visit was the facility’s successful use of frozen semen from a stallion, which led to the birth of its first foal via Artificial Insemination Technique. This milestone is considered a significant technological evolution in the Army’s equine breeding practices, enhancing genetic diversity and improving the overall health and performance standards of the bred animals.
At Babugarh, the integration of cutting-edge breeding techniques and scientific methodologies has elevated the quality of the horses and mules produced, aligning them with the operational and sporting requirements of the armed forces. The mules, in particular, are indispensable for transport and support in rugged and elevated terrains, proving their worth in situations where traditional vehicles are unable to navigate successfully.
Lt Gen VMB Krishnan praised the facility’s dedication to maintaining superior breeding standards and effectively utilizing modern reproductive technologies to improve equine quality and performance. His visit underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in equine breeding, ensuring that it possesses top-tier animals capable of excelling in both military and competitive realms. This commitment reflects the Army’s strategic vision in enhancing its logistical capabilities while promoting excellence in equestrian pursuits.