New Delhi - India has discontinued a 25-year-old tradition by banning the use of elephants at its Republic Day military parade in New Delhi, officials said.

The Defence Ministry, which organizes the January 26 event, decided to do away with the tradition of parading caparisoned elephants owing to security concerns after some "angry" pachyderms caused a scare at the parade last year.

There have also been protests by animal rights activists to bring to an end the hardships faced by the jumbos.

The elephants, a highlight of the parade, used to carry children-winners of the National Bravery Awards. But from this time onwards, the children will be taken on open military jeeps, defence officials said.

"There were serious security concerns after two agitated elephants were almost uncontrollable and caused a near stampede last year. Keeping this in mind, we decided not to take any chances at the huge gathering this time," defence ministry spokesman D Mohanty said.

"Another reason is that for the last four to five years, animal right activists have been demanding a ban, saying the animals were subjected to cruelty of being made to stand and facing cacophony of bands for long hours during the rehearsals," he added.

Elephants are commonly used in India at various fairs and festivals. Elephants have run amok at some of these festivals, particularly in southern India, causing fatalities.

India celebrates January 26 every year as Republic Day to commemorate the day it adopted its constitution in 1950. The day is marked by flag hoisting ceremonies, military parades and cultural pageants across the country. (dpa)