In the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed all states and Union Territories to conduct nationwide mock security drills on Wednesday, focusing on preparedness for emergency scenarios, including air raids and blackout situations.
These drills come amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, which has denied involvement in the attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists. However, preliminary Indian investigations point to a cross-border terror link, prompting high-level security meetings and a firm response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
According to a Home Ministry directive, drills will take place across 244 districts where civil defence infrastructure—including bunkers, sirens, and communication systems—has been reviewed. Over 100 locations have been flagged as especially sensitive.
Key aspects of the emergency exercises include:
- Activation of air-raid sirens
- Implementation of blackout protocols
- Public advisories to keep cash, torches, candles, and medical kits handy
- Crash-blackout procedures and camouflaging critical installations
- Evacuation rehearsals and cleaning of bunkers and trenches
- Testing of hotline/radio links with the Indian Air Force
- Training civilians in civil defence measures
The ministry has emphasized that civilians must be prepared for situations where digital infrastructure may fail, underscoring the need for offline preparedness, including keeping emergency cash and supplies at home.
These drills are part of a broader strategy to bolster India’s internal security infrastructure in anticipation of “new and complex threats,” with a particular focus on enhancing public awareness and response capabilities during any hostile attacks.
Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions have escalated further, with India suspending key agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty and warning of strong retaliatory actions if evidence confirms Pakistan’s involvement.
