May 28, 2025: In the wake of heightened tensions and recent military action along the India-Pakistan border, nationwide civil defence mock drills are set to resume this week under Operation Abhyaas, a coordinated initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs to strengthen public emergency response. The move comes shortly after India’s strategic strikes under Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
Civil Defence Drills Resume Across Key Border States
Beginning Thursday, May 29, mock drills will be conducted in states bordering Pakistan—Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir—to test preparedness in the event of large-scale emergencies. These drills are being revived just weeks after India and Pakistan reached a bilateral understanding to cease all military action and firing along the border.
Civil defence teams will activate air raid sirens, blackout drills, evacuation protocols, and public awareness campaigns in line with wartime scenario training. The last major coordinated drill took place on May 7, encompassing 28 cities in Rajasthan, as part of preliminary post-attack readiness operations.
Haryana to Launch “Operation Shield”
In a parallel effort, the Haryana government will roll out its largest-ever civil defence initiative, dubbed “Operation Shield,” on May 29 at 5 PM, across all 22 districts. The exercise aims to enhance coordination between civil administration, defence personnel, and civilians, ensuring that all emergency systems can be activated efficiently.
Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Sumita Misra, stated that Operation Shield will involve large-scale participation from:
- Civil defence wardens and volunteers
- Youth organisations like NCC, NSS, NYKS, and Bharat Scouts and Guides
A 15-minute controlled blackout will also take place from 8 PM, excluding essential services such as hospitals, police, and fire departments.
Modi: “No Longer a Proxy War”
During a rally in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on May 27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly addressed India’s evolving security posture. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he revealed that nine terrorist bases were “destroyed within 22 minutes,” with footage deliberately captured to dispel any doubts back home.
“Until now, what we used to call a proxy war… we can no longer make the mistake of calling it that,” said Modi. “When terrorists are given state funerals, it reveals the truth of their strategy. We seek peace, but we will respond with strength.”
Operation Abhyaas: National Civil Preparedness Strategy
Following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Ministry of Home Affairs directed 244 districts nationwide to participate in Operation Abhyaas, a comprehensive programme aimed at preparing civilians for emergency and wartime-like scenarios. Activities include:
- Blackout simulations
- Evacuation drills
- Air raid siren testing
- Community engagement and awareness drives
Looking Ahead
As India signals a firmer military doctrine and strengthens civil defence, these mock drills stand as a testament to the country’s resolve to protect its citizens. With growing public participation and coordinated efforts across states, authorities hope these exercises will enhance both preparedness and public awareness in times of crisis.