On May 7, 2025, India is conducting a large-scale civil defence mock drill across the nation, a proactive measure in response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following the tragic April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. This exercise, part of the Union government's preparedness strategy, is taking place in 244 designated Civil Defence districts across nine states and Union Territories, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Patna, and Chandigarh.
The mock drill is designed to enhance the country’s emergency response systems, with authorities testing air-raid alert systems, assessing evacuation strategies, and checking the preparedness of shelters. Participants include Civil Defence wardens, NCC cadets, Home Guards, NSS volunteers, NYKS members, and students from various educational institutions, all engaged in simulation exercises aimed at ensuring both citizens and officials can act quickly and efficiently in emergencies.
In Chandigarh, a 10-minute blackout drill is scheduled for 7:30 PM, with Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav urging residents to switch off all electrical lights during the exercise. This drill will include air raid sirens to simulate a blackout situation and test emergency preparedness. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, selected locations will experience 5-minute power blackouts as part of the drill, simulating a hostile attack and testing the civil defence forces' ability to minimize casualties and damage.
In the national capital, Delhi, the drill will commence at 4 PM, with 60 air raid sirens sounding across the city. Key locations include IGI Airport's T3, Apollo Hospital, and various residential areas. The drill aims to simulate emergencies such as air raids, urban fires, and casualty evacuations to evaluate the city’s wartime readiness. A brief blackout is planned, although the extent remains unconfirmed.
Hyderabad is also participating, with traffic restrictions in place from 4 to 4:30 PM as part of the drill, named 'Operation Abhyaas.' This exercise will occur at four key locations within the Outer Ring Road, with emergency vehicles given uninterrupted access. The simulation, which includes power blackouts and public announcements, is a response to recent retaliatory strikes by the Indian military.
In Pune, the drill will take place at three locations: the Council Hall, the Talegaon Municipal Council, and the Mulshi Panchayat Samiti. Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi emphasized that the drill is not a cause for alarm but a necessary step to improve civil defence readiness. The exercise will begin at 4 PM, with no blackout planned in Pune, unlike other cities.
According to Dudi, the drill will involve various departments, including the Army, Air Force, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), with around 100-150 college students participating as mock civilians. The aim is to raise public awareness about emergency procedures and ensure effective coordination during crises. Dudi noted, "The ringing of the siren is indicative of an attack on the city, which would alert people to take cover."
In addition to urban areas, mock drills are being conducted in rural and semi-urban regions across Maharashtra, including Nashik and Aurangabad. The initiative targets improved preparedness in 244 strategically important districts nationwide, with each exercise designed to test the responsiveness of local authorities and emergency responders.
The nationwide mock drill follows the Indian military's recent Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack. The operation, described by the Indian Army as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” aimed at neutralizing sources of planned attacks against India.
As part of the drill, officials will also test public alert systems using sirens in densely populated towns, practice safe evacuation procedures, simulate power and signal shutdowns, and conduct public awareness sessions on emergency response and first aid. The overarching goal is to familiarize civilians with emergency protocols and ensure seamless coordination with the Indian Air Force.
Officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have been overseeing preparations, ensuring that all participants are well-trained and ready to act. The drills are also intended to send a strong message to potential adversaries, demonstrating India's commitment to national security and civil defence readiness.
As the drills unfold across the country, citizens are encouraged to remain calm and participate actively in the exercises. The government has clarified that these drills are essential to enhance the nation’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities in the face of new and complex threats.
