As a precautionary step to boost the nation’s readiness against aggressive attacks, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has instructed some states to organize extensive civil defence mock drills on May 7. According to the sources, government officials, the mock drills would mimic different wartime situations and assess the preparedness of authorities as well as civilians in the event of an emergency.
Major Steps to Be Implemented
In order to provide a strong civil defence plan, states will make operational air raid warning sirens as part of the drill. These sirens are essential to inform the public promptly and effectively in case of an aerial attack. “Operationalization of Air Raid Warning Sirens” will be a central component of the drill.
MHA has asked several states to conduct mock drills in for items for effective civil defence on 7th May: Government of India Sources
Following measures will be undertaken –
1.Operationalization of Air Raid Warning Sirens
2. Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil…— ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2025
Besides, the MHA has requested states to provide training to civilians, students, and other vulnerable sections on the procedures of civil defence. These courses will impart self-defence during hostile attacks. “Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack.”
Another important step will involve the use of crash blackout procedures to reduce visibility to hostile aircraft. This involves shutting off external lighting to conceal important areas from aerial detection.
Critical infrastructure and installations will be camouflaged early to safeguard them from being attacked. “Provision for early camouflaging of vital plants/installations” has been made mandatory for successful concealment.
Lastly, all the states are also supposed to revise their evacuation plans and practice for rehearsals so as to facilitate smooth implementation during actual emergencies. “Updation of evacuation plan & its rehearsal” has also been included as a must-do of the drill.
Strengthening Civil Defence Readiness
Mock exercises are a part of the overall central government policy of making sure states and citizens do not get taken by surprise when there is a security threat. The exercises intend to make people aware, instill resilience, and make interagency coordination systems more streamlined.
States would have to submit their findings and results to the MHA once the exercise has been conducted, something that can guide future policy and preparedness responses.
