In a significant move to enhance national security readiness, a comprehensive civil defence mock drill is scheduled to unfold across four critical Indian states bordering Pakistan: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir. This initiative follows the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the loss of 26 innocent lives, and marks the first nationwide civil drill since the Indo-Pak war of 1971.
The directive for these extensive mock drills, affecting 244 districts throughout the country, was issued by the Home Ministry earlier this year on May 7. This date coincided with India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, aimed at disrupting terror infrastructure situated within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The drills are designed to evaluate the responsiveness and effectiveness of the country’s civil and defence apparatus in emergencies, including air raids and terrorist activities. A key aspect of today’s drill involves the testing of air raid sirens as part of response system evaluations and blackout protocols. In regions adjacent to the Line of Control, such as Uri in Kashmir, community bunkers have been equipped, while school children in border towns like Arnia have participated in evacuation exercises to ensure preparedness.
The safety protocols implemented during the drill also highlight the importance of safeguarding essential infrastructures, including military and paramilitary bases, hospitals, and communication facilities. Civil defence teams are working alongside local organizations to educate residents, students, and personnel on standard operating procedures (SOPs) for emergency situations, evacuation methods, and designated shelter locations.
Officials are urging residents in the participating areas to remain composed and to adhere to instructions during the siren tests. Emphasizing the drill’s critical nature, authorities stress that it is a vital effort to bolster the country’s civilian defence capabilities in light of escalating regional tensions.
