On May 7, 2025, a nationwide mock drill was conducted across 244 selected districts in India, including 28 cities in Rajasthan, to prepare citizens for emergencies such as air strikes and other potential threats. This exercise, termed 'Operation Sindoor', was initiated at 4 PM with the sound of war sirens, marking the beginning of various safety protocols and blackout drills.
Rajasthan's Chief Minister, Bhajan Lal Sharma, closely monitored the proceedings from Jaipur, having previously conducted a video conference with key officials to ensure smooth execution. Among those present were Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant, Home Secretary Anand Kumar, DGP Utkarsh Sahai, and several other senior officials who provided necessary instructions for the drill.
The mock drill involved sounding war sirens in cities such as Kota, Ajmer, Alwar, Barmer, and the state capital, Jaipur, where the sirens echoed through various locations, including the District Collectorate, Shastri Nagar, and Raj Bhavan. The sirens served as a crucial alert system designed to inform residents of impending danger, prompting them to seek safety.
Following the siren alerts, a complete blackout was enforced for 15 minutes, during which all lights in homes, offices, and public spaces were turned off. This blackout drill was intended to simulate conditions during an air raid or other emergencies, testing the public's response and adherence to safety measures.
In Jaipur, the blackout drill was executed at approximately 8:30 PM, with instructions for residents to turn off all lights, including streetlights and vehicle headlights. The city plunged into darkness as part of the exercise, which was aimed at enhancing public awareness and preparedness for emergencies.
District Collector Jitendra Soni remarked on the importance of the mock drill, stating, "In accordance with the guidelines of the Central and State Government, we have conducted this exercise to ensure that the public is well-prepared for any emergencies that may arise." He emphasized the need for coordination among various departments, including Civil Defence, police, and health services.
Throughout the day, similar drills were conducted in other cities across Rajasthan. In Jodhpur, for instance, a blackout was mandated from midnight to 4 AM, and schools were ordered to close on May 8 in response to the heightened security measures following the drill. In Sriganganagar, all schools were also closed, and employees were instructed not to leave their headquarters.
The drills were not limited to urban areas; rural regions also participated, with various organizations, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local volunteers, taking part in the exercises. In Bundi, a mock drill simulating a fire incident at a local oil factory caused a significant response from emergency services, showcasing the coordinated efforts of local authorities in disaster management.
In addition to the drills in Rajasthan, similar exercises were held in Uttar Pradesh, where a red alert was issued following recent military operations against terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. The Uttar Pradesh Police conducted mock drills across various districts, educating residents on safety protocols and evacuation procedures during wartime.
The mock drill in Uttar Pradesh was particularly noteworthy in Bulandshahr, where a blackout was observed from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Residents cooperated by turning off lights in their homes and businesses, adhering to the guidelines provided by local authorities. Schools in the area also participated, teaching students how to respond in emergency situations.
In Amritsar, the Golden Temple, known for its stunning architecture and significance in Sikh culture, also participated in the nationwide mock drill. A video released showed all lights in the temple being turned off in unison as the siren sounded, demonstrating the community's cooperation in the exercise.
Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant praised the active participation of citizens during the drills, stating, "The involvement of the public in these exercises is crucial for ensuring national security and preparedness in the face of potential threats." He urged residents to remain vigilant and responsive to emergency alerts in the future.
As the mock drills concluded, officials expressed satisfaction with the overall execution and the public's response. The exercises were seen as an essential step in enhancing disaster preparedness and ensuring that citizens are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
The mock drills served as a stark reminder of the importance of readiness in times of crisis, highlighting the need for continuous training and awareness in the face of evolving threats. With the successful implementation of these drills, authorities aim to foster a culture of preparedness among the populace, ensuring that everyone knows how to respond swiftly and efficiently when faced with unexpected situations.
