In an unprecedented nationwide move since the 1971 India-Pakistan war, the Centre has directed all states and Union Territories to conduct a large-scale civil defence mock drill on May 7. The initiative is aimed at strengthening preparedness against potential hostile attacks, particularly in the wake of the recent terrorist strike in Pahalgam on April 22 that claimed 26 lives, and ongoing cross-border firing by Pakistan.
This extensive security drill, involving 244 civil defence districts, seeks to train both authorities and civilians in emergency response protocols during air strikes or other national security threats.
What Is a Mock Drill?
A mock drill is a simulated emergency scenario designed to help people practice their response in a safe and controlled environment. These drills enhance preparedness for natural disasters, fires, medical emergencies, and hostile actions, enabling quick, efficient, and coordinated responses during real crises.
Key Features of the May 7 Drill:
According to the Union Home Ministry, the nationwide exercise will test and train participants through various critical scenarios:
- Air raid sirens will be activated to assess their efficiency in alerting civilians.
- Civilians, including students, will be trained in basic civil defence techniques, such as taking cover, administering first aid, and firefighting.
- Hotlines and radio communications between civil authorities and the Indian Air Force will be tested.
- Blackout drills will simulate air raid conditions by asking residents to turn off lights, especially in sensitive zones like cantonment areas.
- Critical infrastructure like refineries, rail yards, and airfields will be shielded to test camouflage and defence strategies.
- Control rooms and their backups (“shadow rooms”) will be activated to gauge emergency response capabilities.
- Rescue and firefighting teams will rehearse evacuation and relief operations.
Public Participation & Coordination
The drill will involve district authorities, civil defence volunteers, Home Guards, and members of youth organisations like the NCC, NSS, and NYKS. Civilians will also be included in first-hand emergency training, marking one of the largest people-involved preparedness efforts in decades.
In Ferozepur, Punjab, initial drills included a blackout exercise in the cantonment area, with more such operations expected to follow in light of rising tensions with Pakistan.
This comprehensive drill is seen as a proactive measure by the government to ensure that civil defence systems are battle-ready and public awareness is heightened in the face of escalating security threats.
Sources By Agencies
