Bhubaneswar, Jan 23: Two horses from Odisha, Titli and Vodka, are set to showcase their skills at the upcoming Republic Day parade in New Delhi. The horses have already reached the national capital and are currently undergoing rigorous rehearsals ahead of the celebrations scheduled in three days. Their performance will be witnessed by audiences across the world.

Titli and Vodka belong to the 1 (Odisha) Remount and Veterinary Squadron of the NCC, located at the College of Veterinary Science campus of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT). Both horses are trained by the Indian Army and play an important role in training NCC cadets. Traditionally, horses from this centre participate in the Republic Day parade every year. While four to five horses were sent earlier, the number has now been reduced to two.

Earlier, a horse named Tarzan represented the squadron in the Republic Day parade for nearly 14 years. For its consistent and commendable performance, Tarzan was honoured with the prestigious DG NCC Commendation Card Award. This year, the responsibility has been entrusted to Titli and Vodka.

The training and rehearsals are being conducted under the leadership of NCC Cuttack Group Commander Colonel Satyabrata Swain, with direct supervision by Cadet Senior Under Officer Dinesh Rautaray of the 1 (O) R&V Squadron NCC. Focus is being laid on their movement, discipline, behaviour before dignitaries, and overall presentation. Special attention is also being given to their diet and health.

In addition to the horses, NCC cadets Soumyaranjan and Anasuya from the same centre have also travelled to New Delhi. This information was shared by the Squadron’s Commanding Officer, Colonel P. Dinadayalan.