India ushered in the New Year with grand celebrations, countdown parties, and festive gatherings as state governments heightened security measures to ensure smooth festivities. In major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, iconic landmarks such as India Gate and Marine Drive attracted large crowds, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Authorities issued traffic advisories, guidelines for establishments, and deployed extra security forces to manage the expected footfall in public spaces.
Despite the cold weather in Delhi, areas like Connaught Place and Vasant Vihar saw a steady influx of revelers, with families and groups gathering in markets and open spaces. A tourist visiting Connaught Place expressed hope for a good year ahead, saying, “I have come from Punjab to celebrate the New Year here.” In the same vein, another visitor mentioned, “It is cold, but we are happy to welcome 2026 here with our friends.”
Security arrangements were meticulously planned in areas anticipating heavy crowds in Delhi, with comprehensive measures in place to maintain law and order. Senior officials, including Assistant Commissioners of Police and an Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, closely monitored security on the ground. In Delhi’s West District alone, 1,469 police personnel were deployed to ensure public safety during the celebrations.
In Rajasthan, stringent traffic safety measures were enforced, including checkpoints and inspections to curb drunk driving. Maharashtra allowed eateries, restaurants, and hotels to operate till 5 a.m. on January 1 as part of the New Year festivities. Bengaluru deployed around 20,000 police personnel to oversee New Year’s Eve celebrations, expecting over a million people at various locations for the festivities.
As the eastern world bid farewell to 2025, popular hill destinations like Shimla and Manali attracted a surge of tourists and revelers, braving the cold to welcome the New Year amidst the mountains.
