India-Gears-Up-for-Its-Biggest-Civil-Defence-Drill-Since-1971India to conduct massive civil defence drill across 244 districts on May 7 after Pahalgam terror attack

 

The Union Home Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is to conduct a nationwide massive civil defense mock drill on May 7. This record attempt aims to strengthen national readiness, covering 244 districts across India.

The massive drill was prompted by the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives. It aims to test and improve emergency response mechanisms in the face of new and complex threats.

 

Ground-Level Execution Across States and UTs

 

From Dal Lake of Srinagar to cantonment areas of Ferozepur in Punjab and cities like Lucknow, mock exercises were carried out at the ground level with enthusiastic participation from the local administration, civil defense members, students, and different youth organizations.

The exercise extended up to village-level administration, with people themselves participating in mock hostile environment-like air raids and blackout conditions.

District controllers, civil defense wardens, home guards (active and reserve), NCC cadets, NSS volunteers, NYKS members, and school and college students participated in these rehearsals. Coordination with local police and the Indian Armed Forces was highlighted by the Centre for quick and synchronized action.

 

Simulation of Aerial Attacks and Blackouts

 

As part of the exercise, air raid sirens were also tested in various areas to determine their efficiency in warning civilians of aerial attacks. Citizens in chosen areas went through controlled blackouts, suspension of mobile signals, and traffic diversion. Underground bunkers and trenches were checked, and authorities conducted evacuation drills after public announcements.

“Preparedness is what saves lives. This isn’t a drill, it’s a rehearsal for real life,” said a senior official of the National Disaster Management Authority.

 

First Such Exercise Since 1971

 

This is the first country-wide civil defense drill of this scale since the India-Pakistan war in 1971. It is a directive by the MHA on May 2 under the Civil Defence Rules, 1968.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan inspected preparations with state chief secretaries and civil defence chiefs through a video conference earlier this week.

 

Hands-On Training and Infrastructure Protection

 

Volunteers were also instructed in civilian defense methods such as first aid, operation of firefighting machinery, and how to take shelter during enemy attack. Control centers and their backup counterparts were likewise checked for efficiency.

Authorities even rehearsed how to camouflage crucial infrastructure like airfields, oil refineries, and rail depots from potential aerial attacks.

 

Message of Readiness and Deterrence

 

Authorities made it clear that even though the exercise mimics wartime operations, it is not a sign of an imminent war. Instead, it is a deterrence exercise and a full-spectrum check for readiness in response to heightened cross-border tensions and domestic security challenges.

As one senior MHA official put it, “This drill is about saving lives and sending a strong message: India is prepared.”