Srinagar/New Delhi, January 18, 2026:
Security has been significantly intensified around Jammu and Kashmir’s iconic Dal Lake as the country prepares to celebrate the 77th Republic Day on January 26. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has established a special security checkpoint along the banks of the lake, one of Srinagar’s most frequented tourist and public areas, as part of heightened precautionary measures in the run-up to the national event.

Officials said sniffer dogs have also been deployed in and around the Dal Lake area to detect explosives and other suspicious materials. Security personnel are conducting regular checks of vehicles, pedestrians, and boats operating on the lake, while surveillance has been increased to ensure that no untoward incident disrupts public life or the Republic Day celebrations.

Dal Lake, often referred to as the heart of Srinagar, attracts large numbers of tourists, locals, and vendors on a daily basis. Given its symbolic importance and heavy footfall, the area is considered sensitive from a security standpoint, particularly during national events. The additional deployment of CRPF personnel is aimed at reassuring the public while maintaining a strong security presence.

Security agencies have said the arrangements are preventive in nature and part of standard operating procedures ahead of major national days. “We are ensuring strict vigilance at all sensitive locations. The deployment of sniffer dogs and additional checkpoints is to strengthen security and prevent any possible threat,” an official said, adding that coordination with local police and other security agencies has also been stepped up.

Nationwide preparations underway

The heightened security in Jammu and Kashmir comes as preparations for the 77th Republic Day celebrations are underway across the country. In the national capital, rehearsals for the Republic Day parade are in full swing at Kartavya Path, where marching contingents, tableaux, and security personnel are carrying out daily practice sessions ahead of the grand event.

Republic Day is observed annually on January 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950, marking the country’s transition into a sovereign democratic republic. The celebrations traditionally include a grand parade showcasing India’s military strength, cultural diversity, and achievements, followed by the Beating Retreat ceremony, which formally concludes the Republic Day festivities.

Ticket sales for Republic Day events

The Ministry of Defence has announced that ticket sales for key Republic Day events began on January 5. These include tickets for the Republic Day Parade on January 26, the Full Dress Rehearsal of the Beating Retreat on January 28, and the main Beating Retreat ceremony on January 29.

According to the ministry, tickets for the Republic Day Parade are priced at ₹20 and ₹100, depending on seating categories. Tickets for the Full Dress Rehearsal of the Beating Retreat are available at ₹20, while those for the Beating Retreat ceremony are priced at ₹100. Ticket sales will continue until January 14 or until the allotted quota is exhausted.

Tickets can be purchased daily from 9 am onwards, subject to availability. In addition to online sales, offline tickets are being made available at designated counters in Delhi.

Offline ticket arrangements and identification norms

For those opting to buy tickets offline, the Ministry of Defence has specified that an original photo identity card must be produced at the time of purchase. Accepted documents include Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Driving Licence, PAN Card, Passport, or an identity card issued by the Central or State government.

The same photo ID will be required for entry at all three events — the Republic Day Parade, the Full Dress Rehearsal of Beating Retreat, and the Beating Retreat ceremony.

Offline ticket counters are operational from January 5 to January 14, 2026, between 10 am and 1 pm, and again from 2 pm to 5 pm, at six locations in Delhi. These include Sena Bhawan (near Gate No. 5, inside the boundary wall), Shastri Bhawan (near Gate No. 3, inside the boundary wall), Jantar Mantar (main gate, inside the boundary wall), Parliament House (reception), Rajiv Chowk Metro Station (D Block, near Gates No. 3 and 4), and Kashmere Gate Metro Station (concourse level, near Gate No. 8).

Focus on security and public safety

As Republic Day approaches, security agencies across the country have stepped up vigilance, especially in sensitive regions and major public spaces. In Jammu and Kashmir, the deployment around Dal Lake reflects the broader effort to ensure peace and safety during the celebrations.

Officials have urged citizens and visitors to cooperate with security personnel, follow guidelines, and report any suspicious activity. With enhanced security measures in place and preparations nearing completion, authorities have said they are confident of conducting Republic Day celebrations smoothly and safely, both in the national capital and across the country.