New Delhi: In a significant move to bolster national preparedness, the Government of India has announced a comprehensive civil defence mock drill scheduled for May 7, 2025, across 259 locations in 33 states and union territories. This massive exercise is the first of its scale since the 1971 Indo-Pak war and comes days after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives.
Objectives of the Drill
The main aim of the mock drill is to evaluate India’s emergency response capacity in the event of war-like scenarios. Activities will include:
- Blackout Simulations – Controlled power outages to test emergency protocols.
- Air Raid Sirens – Activation of public warning systems to gauge alertness.
- Evacuation Exercises – Mock drills for the safe relocation of civilians.
- Camouflage Activities – Measures to conceal vital infrastructure.
- Public Safety Education – Awareness programs in schools, colleges, and communities.
These drills are designed to test both infrastructure and public cooperation in responding to emergency threats.
Nationwide Participation
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has coordinated with district administrations and defence-related units to ensure smooth execution. Participants include:
- District Authorities
- Civil Defence and Home Guards
- NCC, NSS, and NYKS Volunteers
- Students from schools and colleges
BJP MPs have also been directed to take part in the drills as ordinary citizens, reinforcing the message that national security is everyone’s responsibility.
Advisory for Citizens
Residents in areas participating in the drill are advised to:
- Remain Calm – These are rehearsals, not real emergencies.
- Keep Essentials Handy – Water, flashlights, and medications.
- Avoid Panic or Rumors – Trust only official communications.
- Follow Instructions – Cooperate with local authorities during drills.
The government has clarified that the exercises are purely precautionary and not tied to any immediate external threat.
