• Source:JND

New Year 2025: As 2024 draws to a close, the entire world has welcomed the new year, 2025, with open arms and a lot of dreams and hope. The transition to a new year brings a sense of hope and renewal that symbolises new beginnings as the clock strikes midnight.

Auckland became the first major city to celebrate the new year as thousands thronged downtown or climbed to the city’s ring of volcanic peaks for a fireworks vantage point. Besides other countries in the world, India also welcomed the new year with great joy. Soon after the clock struck 12 a.m. midnight, the sounds of firecrackers were heard as people welcomed the new year with hope. 

Delhi and its neighbouring cities of Gurugram and Noida came alive as people welcomed the new year. These cities had already ramped up police security in anticipation. People also celebrated the new year in Bengaluru—the Silicon Valley of India—in grand style, and Mumbai also welcomed the new year with brightly lit streets. 

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Besides metro cities, various destinations in Himachal Pradesh, including Kullu and Manali, saw massive crowds of tourists who visited from across the country to celebrate the new year. Every year, before the new year, a large number of tourists travels to hill stations to celebrate the New Year.

President Murmu, VP Dhankar Extend New Year Greetings

President Droupadi Murmu extended her greetings to the people on the eve of the new year 2025.

In her message, the President said, "On the joyous occasion of the new year, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all Indians, living in India and abroad.

The coming of the new year marks the beginning of new hopes, dreams, and aspirations in our lives.

"Let us welcome the New Year with joy and enthusiasm and take our society and nation further on the path of unity and excellence," she said.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday said it is time for Indians to rededicate themselves towards realising the vision of our Constitution makers.

In his message on New Year's Eve, Dhankhar said the coming year marks our entry into the final quarter of our Constitution's centenary, which he said is a profound milestone reflecting our democracy's enduring commitment to constitutional values, and India's emergence as a global economic hub.

"Time for us to rededicate ourselves towards realising the vision of our Constitution makers while advancing towards 'Viksit Bharat' at 2047," the vice president said.

People of the country should move forward with determination, nurturing democratic values with a resolve to always keep the nation first, he added.

Delhi Police Tightens Security

Delhi Police has outlined comprehensive security arrangements to ensure safe celebrations. Famous spots such as Hauz Khas, Connaught Place, and Lajpat Nagar are expected to see large crowds for the festivities.

Speaking to ANI, DCP South West Surendra Chaudhary said, "We have briefed restaurant owners and staff about the protocols. In collaboration with the traffic police, we have deployed a facial recognition system (FRS) van to identify any people with criminal backgrounds who may visit the area.

"We have installed 60 cameras for monitoring, and our SHO and senior officials will be present. Through loudspeakers, we will also address the gathering if necessary," Choudhary added.

Police have set up 27 checkpoints with personnel equipped with breath analyzers to check for drunk driving and promote road safety. In addition, 14 Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and 16 Police Control Room (PCR) vans have been stationed at strategic locations for rapid response.

The police force deployed for the occasion includes seven Assistant Commissioners of Police, 38 Inspectors, 329 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors, along with 161 female officers. Regular beat and vehicle patrols will bolster visibility and quick response mechanisms.

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Authorities have appealed to residents to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with deployed personnel. Any suspicious activities should be promptly reported to nearby officers or through the helpline number 112.