New Delhi woke up to one of its most tightly guarded days of the year on Monday. Ahead of Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police rolled out a massive, layered security plan across the capital, combining manpower, surveillance technology, and inter-state coordination.
Officials said more than 30,000 police personnel have been deployed citywide to ensure the parade and associated events pass without incident. The New Delhi district, which hosts the ceremonial route and key installations, has seen the heaviest concentration.
Nearly 10,000 officers are stationed in this zone alone.
Additional Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahala said the focus has been on readiness, visibility and rapid response.
Over 10,000 police officers are stationed in the New Delhi region to ensure the safety and security of the Republic Day festivities. Standard operating protocols have been established, including checkpoints and barricades.
Officers on duty have undergone detailed briefings. Rehearsals and emergency drills were conducted in advance. Duties have been assigned location by location, with clear protocols for crowd management and threat response.
AI cameras, facial recognition and real-time monitoring form core of security grid
Technology is playing a central role in this year’s arrangements.
More than 3,000 CCTV cameras with advanced video analytics and Facial Recognition System (FRS) capabilities have been installed across New Delhi, including along the parade route and surrounding areas. Live feeds are being tracked round the clock from over 30 control rooms by nearly 150 trained personnel.
On the ground, police teams are using AI-enabled glasses linked directly to police databases.
“These AI glasses, manufactured in India, are linked in real-time to police databases containing information on criminals, suspects, and proclaimed offenders. If a face matches in a crowded place, it can be identified instantly, enabling swift intervention,” Mahala said.
To strengthen coverage and response time, mobile surveillance vehicles equipped with facial recognition technology have also been positioned at key locations.
Multilayer barricades, strict entry checks, frisking at designated points, and tight access control surround the parade route and adjacent areas are among the security measures.
Sniper teams have been deployed on rooftops across New Delhi, North Delhi and Central Delhi as part of the heightened alert. Senior officers have conducted route inspections and anti-sabotage checks, while security has been stepped up at markets, metro stations, bus terminals and railway stations.
Tenant and domestic help verification drives are also underway as part of the wider exercise.
Officials said Delhi Police is in constant touch with neighbouring states to ensure intelligence sharing and coordinated preparedness throughout the day.
Citizens have been advised to follow security advisories and avoid carrying prohibited items. Visitors to the parade have also been asked to note their designated seating enclosures, approach roads and entry gates to prevent confusion and delays.