India steps up security in border towns ahead of Republic Day

Security has been tightened across India ahead of Republic Day's celebrations on January 26.

An extra vigil is being mounted in border towns as security agencies fear militant attacks from across the border ahead of U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to the country.

Obama will be the first U.S. President to attend a Republic Day celebration. He is the only U. S. President to visit the country twice while in office.

India security officials have said around 200 militants are waiting to cross over from across the border.

The elite Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel were seen patrolling the border town of Amritsar.

Police officials admitted there has been an unprecedented security cover for this year's Republic Day, coinciding with President Obama's visit.

"Yes, there is a high alert because of January 26 (Republic Day) but also because we have guests coming from abroad and it is our duty to provide foolproof security to them," Superintendent of Police Amritsar, Parampal Singh.

"Obama is coming, so we will tighten security," he added.

Obama is scheduled to arrive on January 25 on a three-day visit.

Obama's participation at India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guest is a sign of steadily expanding ties between two countries that share concerns about China's growing power in Asia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Obama on a visit to the United States in September last year and they have spoken by telephone since. Their relationship is thought to have helped resolve a major trade spat in the World Trade Organization.

India traditionally invites a head of state to participate as chief guest for Republic Day celebrations, which culminates in a military parade including its nuclear capable missiles.