In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s indigenous dog breeds, a desi hound named ‘Riya’ has made history by earning prestigious titles at the All India Police Duty Meet 2024 held in Lucknow. This remarkable dog, trained by the Border Security Force (BSF), triumphed over an impressive 116 foreign breeds to claim both the ‘Best Tracker Trade Dog’ and ‘Dog of the Meet’ awards. This victory marks a significant milestone as it is the first time an Indian-bred dog has secured such distinctions in a national competition typically dominated by imported breeds.
This success is aligned with an initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018, which aimed to encourage the integration of Indian dog breeds within the nation’s security forces. Following this vision, the BSF implemented a structured program at the National Training Centre for Dogs (NTCD) in Tekanpur, focusing on the training and breeding of indigenous breeds like the Mudhol Hound and Rampur Hound. These breeds have proven their worth in various operational scenarios, including deployment along India’s borders as well as in counter-insurgency and anti-Naxal missions, showcasing their effectiveness in diverse and challenging terrains.
Riya, a Mudhol Hound, exhibited exceptional tracking abilities, endurance, and discipline during the competition, further illustrating the increasing recognition of Indian breeds. Her victory highlights not only agility and adaptability but also the disease resistance and low maintenance needs that make these dogs particularly well-suited for India’s climatic circumstances and operational requirements.
Currently, more than 150 dogs of Indian origin are actively serving in various BSF units located in strategic and sensitive areas. Their successful performances have significantly bolstered confidence in the country’s self-reliance initiatives and spotlighted the potential of native breeds in national security operations.
To honor this remarkable achievement, a contingent of Indian dog breeds is scheduled to participate in the upcoming National Unity Day Parade. This event will symbolize India’s Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) spirit while celebrating pride in domestic capabilities. A special K9 display will also be organized, showcasing the tactical and operational skills of these indigenous breeds.
The BSF’s ongoing commitment to breeding, training, and deploying Indian dogs serves as a testament to the nation’s dedication to promoting indigenous pride and operational self-sufficiency, embracing the “Make in India” philosophy even within the context of national security.
