by Karen Hibell, The College of Animal Welfare
Yesterday we were given the opportunity to watch two of the army horses being exercised. The university is home to the horses that belong to the 61st cavalry regiment of the Indian army. They say that is is the largest horse mounted unit in the world; larger than our own household mounted cavalry. Unlike the UK equivalent, the regiment participate in ceremonial duties, which is their primary role, such as Independence Day in August and displays around the country, but their modern role includes internal security and police work.
The last recorded active military duty was back in 1971 and the indo-Pakistani war. Each horse has its own rank. Veterinary students, who will join the army upon graduation are tasked with exercising them here.
