New Year 2026: What’s Open and What’s Closed Across India Today

Mumbai: India ushered in New Year 2026 with colourful celebrations, crowded streets and prayer-filled temples, even as authorities across the country enforced heightened security and selective restrictions. From bustling markets to religious landmarks, citizens marked the beginning of the year with optimism, while law enforcement agencies stayed on maximum alert to ensure public safety.

Despite the festive mood, the day was not declared a nationwide holiday. Government offices across the country continued regular operations, as New Year remains a restricted holiday in India. Essential services, including hospitals and emergency response units, also functioned without interruption to ensure uninterrupted public care.

Banking services witnessed a mixed response. While many branches remained open, banks were closed in several states including Mizoram, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, West Bengal and Meghalaya, causing minor inconvenience to customers. In contrast, India’s financial markets showed no pause, with both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) operating as usual.

Public transport systems across major cities continued normal services, helping people commute safely during celebrations. Educational institutions followed state-specific directives. Schools and colleges remained shut in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, while institutions in other regions either remained open or observed partial closures.

As celebrations peaked, security agencies moved into action. Major metropolitan cities witnessed extensive police deployment to prevent any untoward incidents. In Delhi, nearly 20,000 police personnel were placed on duty, with authorities issuing strict warnings against violations of public order.

Mumbai saw a massive security presence with around 17,000 police personnel, supported by the State Reserve Police Force, Quick Response Teams, riot control units and Home Guards, especially at crowded locations. Bengaluru police also deployed close to 20,000 personnel, with special focus on women’s safety. Officials said lessons from previous years prompted extra precautions, including the deployment of additional women officers.