In a strategic move to boost emergency preparedness, civil defence mock drills are scheduled to commence from Thursday, May 29, across multiple Indian states. These include Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir — all of which share borders with Pakistan. The drills aim to test readiness for emergencies such as war, missile attacks, and aerial strikes.
Alongside these efforts, the Haryana government will launch a state-wide civil defence exercise titled “Operation Shield” on the same day. This major initiative will span all 22 districts of the state, starting at 5 PM, and is designed to improve the state’s crisis response mechanisms.
Why Civil Defence Mock Drills Matter
Civil defence drills are critical in identifying strengths and gaps in emergency response systems. These simulations mimic real-world threats like:
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Coordinated terrorist attacks
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Missile or aerial strikes
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Chemical emergencies
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Mass evacuations
They involve coordination between multiple agencies including state disaster response teams, police, fire services, medical teams, and civil defence volunteers. During these drills, the public may encounter sirens, power outages, blackouts, restricted movements, and temporary traffic diversions.
Special Focus: Operation Shield in Haryana
Haryana’s “Operation Shield” stands out as one of the largest civil defence initiatives in recent times. According to Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary (Home), the drill aims to assess and enhance coordination between civil authorities, emergency services, and defence forces.
Key highlights of Operation Shield:
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Participation from thousands of civil defence wardens and registered volunteers
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Involvement of youth groups like NCC, NSS, NYKS, and Bharat Scouts and Guides
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A controlled blackout near critical infrastructure from 8 PM to 8:15 PM, excluding essential services such as hospitals and police stations
Background: Rising Preparedness After Operation Sindoor
These exercises follow recent nationwide drills conducted in the backdrop of rising security tensions. Just days ago, India executed ‘Operation Sindoor’, targeting nine terrorist locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The operation was reportedly a response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
The current wave of mock drills underscores India’s commitment to staying prepared for high-risk scenarios and ensuring public safety in times of conflict.
What Citizens Should Know
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay alert and cooperate with local authorities during the exercises. While these drills are temporary disruptions, they are vital for building a robust emergency response framework that could one day save lives.
Stay informed, stay safe — because preparedness today can prevent chaos tomorrow.
