Republic Day 2026: Delhi has been placed under an extensive security blanket ahead of Republic Day, with the police rolling out a multi-layered security plan across the capital. More than 30,000 personnel have been deployed citywide, officials said, including nearly 10,000 officers in the New Delhi district alone, which hosts the Republic Day parade route and several high-security zones.
Republic Day 2026: 10,000 police officers deployed
Additional Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahala said elaborate security measures are in place to ensure the Republic Day celebrations pass off smoothly and safely. Around 10,000 police personnel have been deployed across the New Delhi area, with checkpoints, barricades, and all standard operating procedures firmly implemented.
He added that officers and personnel have been thoroughly briefed on their deployment, area-specific responsibilities, and emergency response protocols. Security drills and rehearsals have already been carried out to ensure full preparedness ahead of the celebrations.
India Gate: Use of high-tech technology for surveillance
Mahala said more than 3,000 CCTV cameras fitted with advanced video analytics and facial recognition system (FRS) technology have been installed across the New Delhi area, covering the Republic Day parade route and its surrounding zones. The live feeds are being monitored round the clock from over 30 control rooms by nearly 150 trained personnel.
He added that police personnel on ground duty have also been equipped with India-made, AI-enabled smart glasses integrated with facial recognition and video analytics tools. These devices are linked in real time to police databases containing details of criminals, suspects, and proclaimed offenders, allowing instant identification in crowded areas and enabling swift action.
Republic Day: Barricading, checking and mobile monitoring for security
Officials said the security framework includes multiple layers of barricading, strict checking and frisking at all designated entry points, and strict access control along the parade route and surrounding areas. To further enhance surveillance and mobility, mobile monitoring vehicles equipped with FRS technology have been strategically deployed across the city.
Sniper teams have also been deployed on thousands of rooftops in New Delhi, North Delhi, and Central Delhi districts as part of the heightened vigilance. Deputy commissioners of police have conducted detailed route inspections and checks to prevent vandalism, while security has been increased in crowded areas such as markets, bus terminals, metro stations, and railway stations across Delhi.
26th January 2026: Police coordination, appeal for safety measures
An official said coordination meetings have been conducted with police forces from neighbouring states to ensure seamless intelligence sharing, close coordination, and heightened preparedness during the national event. The Additional Commissioner of Police also urged citizens to follow all security advisories and strictly avoid carrying prohibited items.
He further informed that the seating enclosures have been named after rivers and advised visitors to familiarise themselves with their designated seating areas, entry gates, and access routes in advance to prevent any inconvenience.
Also Read: Republic Day Parade 2026: Zeal on the ground, power in the Skies; India puts its might on display
