Kathmandu:Police and Army personnel marked the festival of Kukur Tihar by honoring dogs at separate events in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. The festival is part of Yamapanchak, a five-day celebration, during which the canine companions are worshipped as loyal sentries and faithful allies to humans.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the Police Canine Office in Maharajgunj hosted a program where Deputy Inspector General Om Bahadur Rana of the Nepal Police Headquarters’ Crime Investigation Department led the worship of various dog breeds. Rana highlighted the significant role dogs play in maintaining peace, security, and aiding in crime investigations and search operations. He specifically praised the contribution of sniffer dogs in locating the bodies of 24 missing individuals during the Bhotekoshi flood in Rasuwa on August 26.
Dr. Ramchandra Satyal, the Chief Technical Police Superintendent of the Canine Office, shared that the office, established in 2026 BS, currently operates from 14 locations across Nepal and houses 107 dogs. These dogs are instrumental in the country’s crime-solving efforts.
In Bhaktapur, a military dog skill show was organized at the Nepali Army’s Shri Bhairav Bahan Company. The event featured various performances by trained dogs, including racing competitions and mock search operations. Nepali Army Major General Harendra Pathak emphasized the dogs’ exceptional sense of smell, which is crucial in detecting explosives and aiding in investigations.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Mayor of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality, Surendra Shrestha, and other local officials, who observed the military dog skill show and participated in the festivities.