“After more than 50 years, civil defence mock drill being invoked nationwide. 1.4 crore Indian’s are prepared and ready to unleash the Indian might. Jai Hind ! “ – Maj General K K Sinha

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On May 7, 2025, India conducted a nationwide civil defence mock drill—the largest of its kind since the 1971 war—across 244 districts, including Delhi, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and other border and high-risk regions. This large-scale preparedness exercise was initiated in response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 Indian tourists.

First War Security Mock Drill Since 1971 Amid Pakistan Tension: Air Sirens, Evacuation & More, Indian Airforce.

Objectives and Scope :

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directed the drills to test and enhance India’s readiness for potential war-like emergencies. The exercises aimed to evaluate the functionality of air raid warning systems, communication links with the Indian Air Force, and the effectiveness of control rooms and shadow control rooms. Additionally, the drills focused on training civilians, including students, in civil defence protocols, implementing crash blackout measures, and updating evacuation plans.

Key Activities :

The mock drills encompassed various activities designed to simulate real-world scenarios:

• Air Raid Sirens and Communication Checks: Activation of air raid warning sirens to simulate imminent attacks and testing of hotline/radio communication links with the Indian Air Force .
• Control Room Readiness: Assessment of the functionality and communication capabilities of control rooms and shadow control rooms .
• Civilian Training: Training sessions for civilians, including students, on protective protocols during hostile attacks .
• Blackout Simulations: Implementation of crash blackout measures to disrupt enemy aircraft and ensure safety.
• Camouflaging Vital Installations: Early camouflaging of critical infrastructure such as nuclear facilities, military bases, refineries, and dams.

Indian Army preparing itself

Nationwide Participation

The exercise saw participation from civil defence wardens, home guards, National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS) cadets, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) volunteers, and school and college students. The drills were conducted down to the village level, ensuring widespread community involvement.

Government’s Stance

While the drills were conducted amid heightened tensions with Pakistan, officials clarified that the exercise was not a signal of immediate conflict but part of broader civil defence efforts. The drills were mandated under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968, and aimed to prepare citizens and authorities for potential threats such as war, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, or other hostile situations. This comprehensive mock drill underscores India’s commitment to reinforcing national readiness and ensuring the safety of its citizens in the face of potential threats.

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