Sat Nov 22 14:32:56 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the article and a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
The article details the rigorous training and preparation that the President’s Bodyguard (PBG), India’s elite mounted regiment, undergoes in preparation for the Republic Day parade, Beating Retreat ceremony, and the opening day of Parliament. It emphasizes the careful selection, continuous training, and meticulous care of the PBG’s horses. The training includes desensitization to noise and crowds, ensuring their composure under pressure. The article highlights the daily routine, diet, and healthcare provided to the horses. It also describes the bond between the troopers and their horses and the respect and care given to retired PBG horses.
News Article:
President’s Bodyguard Horses Begin Rigorous Training for Republic Day Parade
New Delhi, November 22, 2025 – India’s elite mounted troopers, the President’s Bodyguard (PBG), are gearing up for their annual cycle of training in preparation for India’s most prestigious ceremonial events: Republic Day, Beating Retreat, and the opening day of Parliament. These equine warriors, participating in nearly 70 mounted parades and rehearsals yearly, represent the pinnacle of discipline, tradition, and horsemanship.
Inside the President’s House, amidst modernized training arenas and carefully monitored feeding routines, the selection process for the participating horses is underway. Approximately half of the regiment’s 100 horses will be chosen for the parade. This year’s event will showcase a blend of veteran and younger horses, demonstrating the Household Cavalry’s rigorous training.
“Every horse undergoes rigorous evaluation before induction,” said PBG Commandant Amit Berwal. “Horses must exhibit a steady temperament under noise, crowds and they should have a powerful, fluid gait, ability to adapt to ceremonial equipment, and overall sound health and build.”
The horses undergo deliberate and continuous training, gradually desensitized to loud noises, crowds, and gunfire to ensure composure under pressure. The new covered training arena ensures the horses remain in peak condition.
The PBG horse’s daily routine includes early grooming, exercise, a balanced diet, and regular health checkups. Upon retirement, they are relocated to an Army Remount and Veterinary Corps Depot. Some, like Viraat, a decorated horse, are commemorated for their service within the regiment.
“For us, the horse becomes an integral part of the soldier’s identity,” stated Col. Berwal, highlighting the strong bond between trooper and horse. “Every appearance of these horses is a blend of discipline, tradition and a spectacle witnessed by millions across India and the world.”
First Piper 