In the run-up to Republic Day 2026, the Delhi government has adopted a rather unconventional wildlife management measure, planning to use 1275 kg of boneless chicken to protect airspace during aerial rehearsals and displays. This tactic, involving large quantities of boneless meat, is meant to reduce the risk of dangerous bird strikes that could threaten aircraft during one of India’s largest annual military parades.

Why 1275 kg of Boneless Chicken Is Being Used

The heart of the strategy is simple: black kites and other predatory birds pose a real aviation hazard. These birds are known to hover around open spaces looking for food and can inadvertently fly into the flight paths of low-flying aircraft, especially during Republic Day air shows and rehearsals. A bird strike can be dangerous to both aircraft and pilots, particularly when fighter jets are performing precise manoeuvres at low altitudes.

To mitigate this, the Delhi Forest Department, in coordination with the Indian Air Force, plans to deploy 1,275 kg of boneless chicken at 20 identified locations across the city, including sensitive zones like Red Fort and Jama Masjid. The idea is to feed and attract the birds away from primary flight corridors so they stay at lower altitudes and avoid interfering with the air show routes between January 15 and January 26.

What makes this year notable is the switch to boneless chicken meat instead of previously used buffalo meat. Officials say chicken is easier to distribute and may be more effective at drawing birds away from danger zones while still ensuring that wildlife management remains effective alongside the smooth conduct of Republic Day celebrations.

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How the Chicken Strategy Works

Under the plan:

• The 1,275 kg of boneless chicken will be delivered in daily consignments to designated spots.

• Small pieces of chicken (20-30 g) will be spread in open areas to lure birds.

• The exercise, repeated over about 15 days before the event, is designed to condition bird movement patterns so they remain outside aircraft flight paths on the day of the parade.

Experts explain that birds like kites are naturally drawn to food sources; by giving them a reliable alternative away from the aircraft routes, authorities hope to reduce instances of the birds swooping close to jets, which could result in engine damage and flight disruptions.

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Safety First: Balancing Wildlife and Aerial Defence

The use of 1275 kg of boneless chicken to protect airspace in this context has drawn public attention not merely because it is unusual, but because it highlights the challenges of ensuring aerial safety during large-scale national events. Bird strikes, while relatively rare, have historically caused engine failures and other serious incidents when birds collide with aircraft at critical moments like takeoff or landing.

By pre-emptively adjusting bird behaviour through targeted feeding, the government aims to strike a balance between wildlife conservation and the imperative of safeguarding pilots, aircraft, and spectators during one of India’s most celebrated national displays.

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