Delhi is under high alert as it prepares for the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2026. In light of potential threats from extremist groups, the Delhi Police have implemented a comprehensive, multi-layered security plan, integrating advanced technology to ensure the safety and security of the thousands of attendees expected at the Kartavya Path parade.
Over 30,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed across the city, with 10,000 dedicated to securing the New Delhi district. This includes heightened security measures in crowded areas such as bus stops, railway stations, and markets. The entire zone is under constant surveillance through an extensive network of CCTV cameras integrated with a facial recognition system (FRS) technology.
A key feature of this year's security arrangement is the use of AI-enabled smart glasses. Supplied by an Indian company, AjnaLens, these smart spectacles are equipped with integrated facial recognition and thermal imaging technology. The glasses connect directly to police officers' mobile phones, providing immediate access to criminal records and identifying suspects in real-time by displaying a green box if the person has no criminal history and a red box if they do.
In addition to the AI-powered glasses, specialized anti-drone units have been strategically positioned to monitor the airspace above Kartavya Path. Sniper teams have also been deployed on high-rise buildings overlooking the parade route, adding another layer of security. The Delhi Police are also utilizing enhanced CCTV surveillance, mobile FRS vehicles, and drone-based monitoring systems. Vehicles making repetitive laps around the same area will also be under the radar of the patrolling staff.
To further enhance security, the Delhi Police have intensified verification drives across the New Delhi district, including checks of hotels, guest houses, tenants, and domestic help. Attendees of the Republic Day parade will be provided with security stickers.
Due to heightened security alerts, multiple layers of checks and advanced technology such as AI-enabled glasses and facial recognition systems will be in place.
A detailed advisory has been issued outlining items prohibited at the parade. These include: all types of bags, food and beverages, tobacco products, sharp objects, flammables, electronics (including power banks, chargers, and professional cameras), umbrellas, toys, and more. Mobile phones are permitted for personal use, but large cameras and recording equipment should be avoided.
Visitors are advised to carry only essential items such as photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.) and their official entry pass or ticket. Gates will open at 7:00 AM, and the parade is scheduled to begin at 10:30 AM. Spectators are encouraged to arrive 2-3 hours early to allow time for security checks, which include frisking, metal detector screening, and other scans. The Delhi Metro is the recommended mode of transport, with the Central Secretariat station being the most convenient. Private vehicles will not be allowed near the venue.
The Delhi Police have also renamed the enclosures along Kartavya Path after Indian rivers to help streamline access and crowd management. They have emphasized that these security measures are essential to ensuring a safe and smooth celebration for all.
