The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several states to conduct comprehensive mock drills on May 7 to assess and improve preparedness for civil defence in the event of hostile attacks, according to Government of India sources.
The nationwide exercise aims to ensure that key civil defence protocols are in place and functional. The following measures are scheduled to be undertaken during the drills:
Operationalization of Air Raid Warning Sirens: – To test the effectiveness of alert mechanisms and ensure timely warning dissemination.
Civilian and Student Training: – Targeted programs to educate civilians, including students, on how to safeguard themselves during emergencies or hostile attacks.
Implementation of Crash Blackout Measures: – Procedures to enforce rapid blackout of lights to reduce visibility from aerial threats.
Camouflaging of Vital Installations: – Quick-action drills to simulate the concealment of key infrastructure and strategic facilities.
Evacuation Plan Rehearsal: – Updates and dry runs of existing evacuation plans to ensure swift and safe movement of people from vulnerable areas.
Officials noted that the drill is part of a broader initiative to bolster India’s civil defence readiness in line with evolving security scenarios. Local authorities have been advised to coordinate with emergency services, educational institutions, and critical infrastructure stakeholders to ensure effective implementation.
