Phase-Out Plan: Gradual replacement of foreign breeds with Indian breeds by 2050.
Indigenous Breeds: Focus on Tangkhul Hui and Kombai breeds.
Tangkhul Hui Breed: Disease-resistant breed from Manipur, used for hunting.
Kombai Breed: Indigenous breed from Tamil Nadu, complements the Tangkhul Hui.
Training Facility: Dogs are trained at the Assam Rifles Dog Training Centre in Jorhat.
Deployment: Trained dogs serve as guard and tracker dogs in operational areas.
Operational Role: Dogs help detect arms, explosives, and narcotics.
Current Breeds: Currently using Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd, and Labrador.
Future Plans: Full induction of indigenous breeds by 2027.
Historical Background: Assam Rifles established in 1835, initially for protecting British tea plantations.
Security Focus: Primarily operates in Northeast India and along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Government Oversight: Operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Defence.
National Policy: Transitioning to indigenous breeds aligns with national policy and operational strategy.
Importance of Indigenous Breeds: Enhances local engagement and support for indigenous species.
Future of the Force: Aims for a more sustainable and locally integrated approach.

Assam Rifles to Phase Out Foreign Dog Breeds by 2050

Key Points