May 09, 2025
How India Hid the Taj Mahal from Pakistani Air Forces in 1971
India is on high alert after the Pahalgam terror attack Military movements, border surveillance, and security drills are intensifying across the country
Back in 1971, India faced similar tension during the Indo-Pak war and took drastic steps to protect iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal
Pakistan’s Operation Chengiz Khan targeted Kheria Airbase near Agra, raising fears that the Taj Mahal could be a target for enemy jets
To protect the Taj, the Archaeological Survey of India wrapped it in 8,400 kg of green jute tarps to blend with the surrounding jungle
Minarets were covered with branches, sand was spread on the marble floor, and lights were switched off to avoid detection from the air
Similar protection measures were taken for other landmarks like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Jaisalmer Fort, including dummy replicas to confuse attackers
During the war, India ran massive civil defence drills to prepare citizens, including blackouts and air raid exercises across the country
Fast forward to today, India is conducting the largest civil defence drills since 1971 with mock evacuations, bunker safety protocols, and air raid simulations
From camouflaging the Taj Mahal in 1971 to modern-day disaster drills, India’s readiness and resilience in times of conflict remains a vital priority
Read More