Delhi Police to deploy AI-enabled smart glasses for Republic Day security

As the national capital prepares for Republic Day celebrations amid heightened terror concerns, Delhi Police will roll out AI-powered smart glasses with facial recognition and thermal imaging to strengthen crowd surveillance and threat detection along the parade route.

Amid stepped-up security arrangements ahead of the January 26 Republic Day celebrations, the Delhi Police will deploy AI-enabled smart glasses equipped with facial recognition and thermal imaging technologies to enhance real-time monitoring and threat detection in crowded public spaces.

The wearable devices, developed by an Indian manufacturer, are designed to assist officers on the ground by instantly identifying suspects without disrupting crowd movement. The move comes as authorities tighten security in the national capital in view of potential threats during the high-profile event.

Real-time identification linked to police databases

The smart glasses will be connected in real time to the Delhi Police database containing records of criminals, proclaimed offenders and suspects. Linked to mobile phones carried by officers, the system allows instant access to detailed background information while patrolling sensitive locations.

Explaining the functionality, Additional Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla said the system uses colour-coded alerts to simplify identification. “If someone appears in a green box, it indicates no criminal record. A red box signals past criminal involvement, allowing officers to immediately verify details and take action if required,” he said.

The facial recognition system can scan faces within seconds and match them against centralised records, enabling discreet surveillance without the need for physical checks. This is expected to ensure smoother crowd movement during the parade and related events.

Thermal imaging adds another security layer

Beyond facial recognition, the smart glasses are also equipped with thermal imaging capabilities. This feature can help officers detect concealed metal objects or potential weapons that may not be visible during routine visual checks.

According to Mahla, the technology significantly reduces reliance on manual frisking. “Thermal imaging will help identify suspicious objects or weapons, strengthening spot identification and improving overall security efficiency,” he said.

The AI system is also capable of recognising individuals even if they have altered their appearance over time. Old photographs, including those taken decades ago, can still be matched accurately using advanced algorithms, officials said.

This marks the first time Delhi Police will use such wearable AI technology as part of Republic Day security. While authorities did not disclose the number or cost of the devices, they confirmed that sufficient units have been procured.

More than 10,000 police personnel will be deployed across the New Delhi district as part of the multi-layered security plan for the celebrations.