As India gets ready to celebrate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, authorities in Delhi have put in place an extensive and highly advanced security plan. Officials say this is one of the most layered security arrangements ever created for the national event.
Police and security agencies have increased patrols, surveillance, and crowd checks across the city and the National Capital Region. The focus is to ensure that celebrations at Kartavya Path take place smoothly and without any incidents.
Heavy deployment across the capital
Senior Delhi Police officials said preparations include several checkpoints at major entry and exit points of the capital. Security teams are carrying out strict vehicle checks and closely monitoring movement around the parade venue.
Police presence has been increased not only near Kartavya Path but also across key locations in Delhi to prevent any untoward situation during the celebrations.
Technology takes centre stage
This year, security planning marks a major shift with the use of advanced technology. Police personnel will deploy AI-enabled smart glasses equipped with facial recognition and thermal imaging features.
These smart glasses can scan faces in crowded areas and instantly match them with police databases. This allows officers to identify known criminals or suspicious individuals in real time. Selected personnel stationed along the parade route will use this wearable technology to quickly detect possible threats.
Additional Commissioner of Police Devesh Kumar Mahala said the force is increasingly relying on technology-based solutions. According to news agency PTI, Delhi Police are integrating CCTV cameras, video analytics, and smart glasses to strengthen threat detection and public safety.
Strong airspace security in place
Authorities have also tightened aerial security. Anti-drone units have been deployed to monitor the airspace over sensitive and high-profile locations. The use of unmanned aerial systems has been banned near these areas to prevent misuse.
In addition, sniper teams have been positioned on high-rise buildings, adding another layer of security during the Republic Day parade.
Verification drives and ground surveillance
Behind the scenes, police are carrying out extensive verification drives. Hotels, guest houses, tenants, and domestic staff in the New Delhi district are being checked to identify potential risks.
Security checks have also been extended to busy public areas such as bus stops, railway stations, and markets, where large crowds are expected.
Agencies work together, public urged to cooperate
The security operation involves close coordination between Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, and intelligence agencies. These teams are working from command and control centres that monitor thousands of CCTV cameras across the city.
Police have appealed to citizens to cooperate during security checks and to report any suspicious objects or behaviour. Authorities believe public support is crucial to ensuring a safe and peaceful Republic Day celebration.