In light of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several states to conduct civil defence mock drills on May 7, as reported by ANI.
The April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives, has been attributed to Pakistan-backed terrorist groups, severely straining already fragile bilateral ties. In response, India has ramped up its preparedness measures, focusing on both civilian safety and critical infrastructure protection.
According to reports, the nationwide drills will emphasize the following key actions:
Activation of air raid warning sirens
Civil defence training for civilians, students, and local personnel to prepare for potential hostile attacks
Implementation of emergency blackout protocols
Early camouflaging of key installations and vital plants
Rehearsal and updating of evacuation plans
These exercises aim to boost emergency readiness in the face of possible threats and to instill confidence among the civilian population.
Tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours have surged, with both nations taking retaliatory steps. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and expelled Pakistani diplomats, while Pakistan has reportedly violated ceasefire terms along the Line of Control (LoC) for ten consecutive nights using small arms fire.
Airspace restrictions and port closures have further strained cross-border relations, fueling concerns over potential escalation. The government’s directive for mock drills is seen as part of a broader strategic posture to safeguard national security during this volatile period.
