How India Welcomes New Year 2026 Amid a Severe Cold Wave
India welcomes New Year 2026 with fireworks, bright lights and energetic gatherings across major cities. People stepped out despite the harsh cold wave. Crowds filled Marine Drive in Mumbai and Connaught Place in Delhi to celebrate the new year. Police increased security across major metros to control heavy footfall and keep celebrations smooth and safe.
India Welcomes New Year 2026: Status of Government Offices, Schools and Services
As India welcomes New Year 2026, most government offices and departments continue regular work since January 1 is a restricted holiday. Schools and colleges also remain open in many states. However, severe winter conditions forced some regions to change schedules. Punjab extended winter vacations in all government, aided and private schools till January 7 due to fog and cold. Guwahati authorities also closed schools for a week and will reopen them on January 7. Shops, commercial establishments and emergency services continue to operate normally across the country.

Bank, Market and Transport Updates as India Welcomes New Year 2026
With India welcoming New Year 2026, some cities observe bank closures today. As per the RBI list, banks in Aizawl, Chennai, Gangtok, Imphal, Itanagar, Kolkata and Shillong remain shut. Banks in other areas continue regular operations. The BSE and NSE stay open since January 1 is not a trading holiday. Public transport networks, including the Delhi Metro, state buses, autos and taxis, follow their usual schedules. Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata also extended metro timings on New Year’s Eve to manage large crowds.
High Security and Large Gatherings as India Welcomes New Year 2026 Nationwide
As India welcomes New Year 2026, large gatherings appear at shopping malls, tourist spots and temples across the country. Police teams monitor busy markets, metro stations and public areas to maintain safety. Devotees visit temples in huge numbers. In Amritsar, thousands reach Shri Harmandir Sahib to offer prayers for the new year. Despite the cold wave, India celebrates the start of 2026 with strong festive spirit, active security measures and uninterrupted essential services.
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