India is getting ready to celebrate Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with the traditional grand parade at Kartavya Path. The event will display India’s military strength, colourful state tableaux, and cultural performances, attracting thousands of people.
To keep the celebration safe, Delhi Police and other security agencies have issued strict guidelines. Due to high security alerts, there will be multiple security checks and the use of advanced technology such as AI-enabled glasses and facial recognition systems. Visitors have been advised to carry very few items and bring only essentials like a valid ID and entry pass so that entry through the gates, which open at 7 AM, is smooth.
Republic Day 2026: What Should You Avoid Carrying?
Delhi Police have clearly stated that certain items will not be allowed inside the venue under any circumstances:
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All types of bags including backpacks, handbags, briefcases, and pouches, regardless of size
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Food items, snacks, water bottles, drinks, thermos flasks, and even sauce or ketchup packets
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Tobacco products such as cigarettes, bidis, gutkha, as well as alcohol, lighters, and matchboxes
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Sharp objects like knives, scissors, blades, nail cutters, screwdrivers, and razors
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Flammable or explosive materials including firecrackers and fireworks
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Electronic gadgets such as power banks, chargers, remote car keys, professional cameras, drones, tablets, and earphones
- Small purses or power banks, as even these are considered security risks due to battery and safety concerns.
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Other items like umbrellas, toys, balloons, flags with sticks, toy weapons, and perfumes or sprays
If security officials find any prohibited items, they can confiscate them or deny entry to the person, and repeated violations may even lead to removal from the venue.
Republic Day 2026: List of Allowed Items
Mobile phones are allowed for personal use, including taking selfies. However, large or professional cameras and recording equipment should not be carried. Small personal cameras may be allowed, but this depends on security officials.
People should carry only a valid photo ID (such as Aadhaar or Voter ID) along with their official entry pass or ticket. Details about gates and parking are usually printed on the back of the pass. Since the event takes place in the early morning, wearing warm clothes is strongly recommended.
Republic Day 2026: Entry Rules and Timings
Entry gates will open at 7 AM, while the parade will begin at 10:30 AM. Spectators should reach the venue at least 2–3 hours early because security checks will include frisking, metal detector screening, and other scans.
Using the Metro is the best option, with Central Secretariat station being the most convenient. Private vehicles will not be allowed near the venue. Visitors must follow all instructions from security staff; otherwise, they may be denied entry or have items taken away. Any suspicious object should be immediately reported.
 Authorities say these strict rules are important to keep everyone safe during the national celebration, and people should check official websites like delhipolice.gov.in or pib.gov.in for any last-minute updates.
 Delhi Metro Special Arrangement for Republic Day 2026 Ceremony
As the nation celebrates the pride and spirit of Republic Day, Delhi Metro will commence its services at 3:00 AM on all lines on 26th January 2026 (Monday). This special arrangement has been made to facilitate the movement of people to Kartavya Path and enable them to witness the Republic Day ceremony. To ensure smooth travel for commuters, trains will operate at intervals of 15 minutes until 6:00 AM. Thereafter, the regular timetable will be followed for the rest of the day: DMRC
As the nation celebrates the pride and spirit of Republic Day, Delhi Metro will commence its services at 3:00 AM on all lines on 26th January 2026 (Monday). This special arrangement has been made to facilitate the movement of people to Kartavya Path and enable them to witness the… pic.twitter.com/Zs0hoSq6rH
— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2026
