In a significant move to enhance national preparedness, the Indian government is set to conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7, 2025. This exercise, the first of its kind since the 1971 India-Pakistan war, comes in the wake of heightened security concerns following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists, on April 22.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has mandated that the drill will take place across 244 designated civil defence districts throughout the country. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan is scheduled to oversee preparations via a video conference with chief secretaries and civil defence officials from various states and union territories on May 6.
The mock drill is designed to test and improve civilian readiness for emergencies, including potential terrorist attacks, missile strikes, or other hostile situations. It will simulate real-life scenarios, such as activating air-raid warning sirens, executing crash-blackout protocols, and conducting evacuation drills.
During the drill, participants can expect temporary blackouts, disruptions to mobile signals, and traffic diversions. Authorities aim to create an environment that mimics potential wartime conditions to prepare citizens for quick and effective responses to emergencies.
According to the MHA, the drill will also include crucial activities such as cleaning and restoring bunkers and trenches, training civilians in protective measures, and testing communication lines with the Indian Air Force. Control rooms and shadow control rooms will be assessed for operational readiness.
The civil defence exercise is not merely a reaction to the recent attack but part of a broader strategy to bolster national security. The government has emphasized that this mock drill should be viewed as a preparedness exercise rather than a sign of impending conflict.
“In the current geopolitical scenario, new and complex threats and challenges have emerged, hence, it would be prudent that optimum civil defence preparedness in the states and union territories is maintained at all times,” the MHA stated.
Participants in the May 7 drill will include Civil Defence wardens, Home Guards, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets, National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, and students from schools and colleges. This inclusive approach aims to engage a wide range of community members in the preparedness efforts.
The upcoming drill marks a return to civil defence measures that were prevalent during the Cold War, when countries routinely prepared for potential air raids and nuclear threats. The last extensive use of blackout drills in India was during the 1971 war, a time when the nation faced significant military challenges.
In preparation for the drill, local authorities have been advised to conduct awareness sessions in schools, colleges, offices, and community centers. These sessions will educate the public on how to find shelter, use basic first aid, and remain calm during emergencies.
In the lead-up to the nationwide exercise, some regions have already begun similar drills. For instance, a 30-minute blackout drill was carried out in Ferozepur Cantonment, Punjab, on May 4, 2025, highlighting the urgency of these preparedness measures.
The recent Pahalgam attack has underscored the need for such readiness. The incident not only claimed lives but also shook the confidence of many, prompting officials to emphasize the importance of community preparedness in the face of potential threats.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to bring the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack to justice, stating that they would be pursued “to the ends of the earth.” His government is under pressure to enhance security measures and ensure the safety of citizens, particularly in areas with high tourist traffic.
As the drill approaches, officials are keen to reassure the public that this exercise is about preparedness, not panic. The government encourages citizens to stay calm, follow local instructions, and avoid spreading rumors or unverified information on social media.
The civil defence mock drill on May 7 will serve as a crucial test of India’s emergency response capabilities and public readiness. It aims to foster a sense of responsibility among citizens and to improve coordination between various emergency services.
As the nation gears up for this unprecedented exercise, many recall memories of past drills during the 1971 war, when air raid sirens would signal the need for blackouts and public preparedness. Survivors of that era have shared their experiences of fear and excitement, highlighting the importance of such drills in fostering a resilient community.
In conclusion, the civil defence mock drill scheduled for May 7 is a proactive step by the Indian government to enhance national security and public safety amidst rising tensions. By engaging citizens in this preparedness exercise, authorities hope to build a more resilient society capable of responding effectively to emergencies.
